bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
DNA Typing of Human Dandruff
Authors: Herber B , Herold K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Dandruff particles contain a considerable portion of nucleated cells within the aggregates of nuclei-free corneocytes. The nuclei could be partially degraded due to epidermal differentiation processes. To test the suitability of DNA from dandruff for forensic application, a study of 35 subjects and two crime cases has been carried out using different STR polymorphisms. In 90% of the samples DNA genotyping could be easily performed indicating that DNA from dandruff is at least suitable for STR analysis. DNA quantity per dandruff particle varies extremely within a range from 0.8 to 16.6 ng DNA for the tested subjects. Genotyping was also possible for a single dandruff particle if DNA extraction volume had been reduced. In mixed samples from dandruff coextracted with bloodstains or semen stains dandruff genotype was detectable in some cases.
These results demonstrate the relevance of dandruff in forensic casework either as an additional sample or as a source of inadvertent contamination.
Subtyping of the HLA-DQA1 Locus and Independence Testing with PM and STR/VNTR Loci
Authors: Budowle B , Koons BW , Moretti TR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele and genotype frequencies for six loci (HLA-DQA1 and PM loci) were determined in African Americans, United States Caucasians, and Southwestern Hispanics. The data include allele frequencies of the HLA-DQA1 4 subtypes. The HLA-DQA1 4 allele subtyping affords greater power of discrimination in African Americans and Southwestern Hispanics than in Caucasians, due to the relatively lower 4.2/4.3 allele frequency in Caucasians. Based on the exact test, all loci, except the GYPA locus in the African American sample (p = 0.011), meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations. There were two examples of significant departures from expectations of independence between alleles of the HLA-DQA1 and PM loci (HBGG/Gc in African Americans, p = 0.30; LDLR/DQA1 in Caucasians, p = 0.023). The HLA-DQA1 and PM loci also were tested for associations with three STR loci and the D1S80 locus. There were four examples of significant departures from expectations of independence (TPOX/D7S8 and THO1/HBGG in African Americans, p = 0.035 and 0.028, respectively; THO1/LDLR in Caucasians, p = 0.028; and GYPA/D1S80 in Hispanics, p = 0.046). The HLA-DQA1 and PM allele frequency data were compared with previously reported data on other sample populations of the same population categories from our laboratory; the allele frequencies at all loci, except the D7S8 locus in Hispanics (p = 0.028), were statistically similar. The frequency data can be used in forensic analyses and paternity tests to estimate the frequency of a multiple locus DNA profile in various general United States populations.
Greek Cypriot Allele and Genotype Frequencies for Amplitype® PM-DQA1 and D1S80 Loci
Authors: Cariolou MA , Manoli P , Christophorou M , Bashiardes E , Karagrigoriou A , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A sample from the Greek Cypriot population was typed at seven forensically important PCR-based loci: LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, GC, HLA-DQA1, and D1S80. The results showed that all loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations and that there is no evidence for association of alleles between loci. Allelic frequency distributions at all loci, except HLA-DQA1 and two D1S80 alleles, were similar to those of U.S. Caucasians. Greek Cypriot population databases have been created and can be used for forensic analyses to estimate the frequency of a multiple locus DNA profile.
An Illustrated Guide to RFLP Troubleshooting
Authors: Benzinger EA , Emerick E , Grigsby N , Lovekamp ML , Logeman R , Sallee PJ , Boster KL , Rehnstrom A , Riech AK , Small AT , Glasner JA , Coons TM , von Beroldingen C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A large number of reagents and steps are required for restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis, which at times make determining the cause of any observed anomaly difficult. Troubleshooting problems in RFLP analysis is difficult and often the exact cause of a problem cannot be determined. In this paper a collection of controlled experiments detail the consequences of a number of human or materials problems. Although the focus is on forensic applications, this troubleshooting guide will be helpful to anyone employing Southern analysis.
Forensic Analyses of Suspect Illicit Nuclear Material
Authors: Grant PM , Moody KJ , Hutcheon ID , Phinney DL , Haas JS , Volpe AM , Oldani JJ , Whipple RE , Stoyer N , Alcaraz A , Andrews JE , Russo RE , Klunder GL , Andresen BD , Cantlin S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A small metal sample, alleged to be a substance that could substitute for highly enriched uranium in a nuclear weapon, was subjected to qualitative and quantitative forensic analyses using methods of materials science, radioisotopic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, and organic chemistry. The specimen was determined to be moderately pure Sc, likely derived from a uranium refining operation. Although no fissionable species or weaponization signatures were detected, the sample did exhibit some unusual properties. These anomalies included lanthanide fractionation, with concentrations of Dy, Ho, and Er elevated by factors greater than 100 over normal levels, and the presence of long, odd-chain fatty acids.
Fingerprint Identification Using Image Enhancement Techniques
Authors: Moler E , Ballarin V , Pessana F , Torres S , Olmo D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This report presents an application of image enhancement techniques in fingerprints as a tool for forensic sciences. Digital image processing technology was applied to restore fingerprints with non-uniform contrast. Whenever the results obtained by applying conventional enhancement techniques were not satisfactory, we combined spatial domain as well as frequency domain techniques in order to enhance the features that allowed later identification. The fingerprints correspond to a person who was murdered by military forces in 1976. The processed fingerprints where sent to the Court of Justice where forensic experts could finally find out the identity of a person who had been unknown until that moment.
Identification of Zinc Phosphide in a Falsely Labeled Rodenticide Bait
Authors: Azoury M , Levin N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
“Kela” is a commercial rodenticide bait commonly used in Israel, made of wheat grains, which, according to its label, contains chlorophacinone. This product was involved in the death case of a man in which the victim's female companion was accused of assisting in this suicide and was subsequently convicted. Analysis of the wheat grains revealed zinc phosphide, whose use is restricted to authorized exterminators only, instead of chlorophacinone. Zinc phosphide was identified using microscopic examination, scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD).
Use of Nested PCR to Identify Charred Human Remains and Minute Amounts of Blood
Authors: Strom CM , Rechitsky S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Reliable single cell PCR requires nested or heminested PCR and careful optimization of conditions. This report describes the successful use of nested PCR for gender identification and reverse paternity testing in a forensic case where the only available materials consisted of charred human remains and a minute quantity of blood that were unsuitable for standard PCR. Use of nested PCR allowed the blood and burned tissue to be identified as human female. Analysis of two PCR length polymorphisms (AMPFLP) was successful on the blood sample and reverse paternity testing yielded a 98% probability that the blood spot was from the victim. The defendant was convicted of murder following a bench trial and the verdict was upheld by the Appellate court.
An Unusual Case of Multiple Mesosternal Foramina
Authors: McCormick WF , Flournoy LE , Rogers NL , Ross H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We present an unusual example of multiple mesosternal foramina (MMF). The alignment of the paired defects is unlike any previously described. Although single sternal defects are often encountered, paired defects are quite uncommon. This is the first documented example of bilateral paired defects in the sternum.
Sudden Unexpected Death Resulting from an Anomalous Hypoplastic Left Coronary Artery
Authors: Erin McConnell S , Collins KA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We present a case of sudden death in a 24-year-old, healthy white female who was physically active and participated in sports, including soccer. Two weeks prior to her death, an insurance physical examination revealed an abnormal electrocardiogram which demonstrated flipped T waves in the anterior leads. There was no other remarkable medical history.
At autopsy, only one coronary ostium was demonstrated and it originated from the right aortic sinus. Approximately 0.8 cm from this right coronary artery (RCA) ostium, a left coronary artery (LCA) branched off the RCA at a 90-degree angle. The LCA had luminal diameter of 0.4 m but the LCA had a luminal diameter of only 0.1 cm. The LCA coursed anterior to the base of the pulmonary artery and down the anterior ventricular septum reflecting the usual course of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery. The LCA and RCA paths appeared to merge or terminate at the anterior left ventricular myocardium which was discolored gray, a process that involved the inner and middle thirds of the myocardium.
Based on the autopsy findings, we certified the cause of death as a probable arrhythmia due to myocardial fibrosis and dystrophic calcification resulting from complications of an anomalous hypoplastic left coronary artery.
Anomalies of coronary arteries have been classified and studied at autopsy and by clinical angiography. Coronary artery anomalies can be divided into minor and major forms with major anomalies often resulting in cardiac dysfunction that may cause failure and death. Minor anomalies, in general, have no pathophysiological significance and are compatible with life. Minor anomalies include variations in number and location of coronary ostia. A single coronary ostia is exceedingly rare in hearts with no other congenital malformations. The prognostic significance can be unpredictable. A single coronary artery has the potential to be dangerous if obstructed at its main stem, or if it branches at an acute angle. Additionally, hypoplasia of one or more coronary arteries has been found to be associated with sudden death.
9 mm Ammunition Used in a 40 Caliber Glock Pistol: An Atypical Gunshot Wound
Authors: Thogmartin JR , Start DA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Atypical gunshot wounds due to ricochet and intermediate targets have been well described in the literature. We represent a case of suicide with an atypical entrance wound and bullet without rifling marks due to 9 mm ammunition being loaded and fired from a 40 caliber semiautomatic pistol.
Absorption of Intubation-Related Lidocaine from the Trachea during Prolonged Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation
Authors: Moriya F , Hashimoto Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine whether lidocaine is absorbed from the trachea during the artificial circulation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The tissue distribution of lidocaine was investigated in eight individuals (Cases 1–8) who underwent cardiopulmonary resuscitation before being pronounced dead.
In Cases 1–4, there was no restoration of heart beat during cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Heart massage had been continued for 5 min in Cases 1 and 2, and for 60 min in Cases 3 and 4. Relatively high concentrations of lidocaine (more than 0.1 mg/L) were detected in the blood left in the heart and/or in the large thoracic vessels in the four cases. In Cases 1–3, a large proportion of the lidocaine detected in these blood samples may have diffused from the trachea after cessation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation since no lidocaine was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid, cerebrum, liver, right kidney, and/or right femoral muscle. In Case 4, however, tracheal lidocaine was thought to have been absorbed during cardiopulmonary resuscitation because 0.167–0.340 mg/L or mg/kg lidocaine was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid, liver, right kidney, and right femoral muscle. This was substantiated in experiments performed in rabbit carcasses given 50 µL/kg Xylocaine™ jelly (a 2% lidocaine hydrochloride preparation) intratracheally, followed by rhythmical thoracic compressions (100–150 times per minute) for 60 min. A possible reason for lack of absorption of lidocaine from the trachea of Case 3 during a 60-min cardiopulmonary resuscitation procedure may have been that effective blood circulation was not obtained during cardiopulmonary resuscitation because of bleeding and pulmonary collapse.
Cases 5–8 survived for 3 h to 10 days after successful cardiopulmonary resuscitation; it was obvious that lidocaine was distributed to the tissues under the influence of the natural circulation. The kidney to liver lidocaine ratio in Case 4 (0.8) was much lower than that in Cases 5–8 (1.3–4.6), although the lidocaine ratio in the blood in the left ventricle when compared to blood in the right ventricle was similar in the five cases. The kidney to liver lidocaine ratio may be helpful in judging whether the lidocaine detected was absorbed during the artificial circulation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation or naturally. Additionally, postmortem diffusion of tracheal lidocaine into the blood in the left ventricle was much greater than into the blood in the right ventricle due to their anatomical location during a supine position. The pattern of tissue distribution of lidocaine gives useful information on the state of decedents during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Interval Duration Between Injury and Severe Symptoms in Nonaccidental Head Trauma in Infants and Young Children
Authors: Gilliland MGF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic pathologists are frequently asked to describe the interval between injury and the onset of symptoms in child abuse head injury deaths. A prospective, postmortem study examined the interval between injury and onset of symptoms in 76 head injury deaths in which this information was available. The head injury deaths were divided by mechanism of injury. The mechanisms were shake (no impact), combined shake and blunt impact, and blunt impact (no history of shaking). The interval was less than 24 hours in 80% of shakes, 71.9% of combined, and 69.2% of blunt injuries. The interval was greater than 24 hours in more than 25% of each of these latter groups and was more than 72 hours in four children. The variable intervals between injury and severe symptoms warrant circumspection in describing the interval for investigators or triers of fact. It should be noted that in all of the cases where information was supplied by someone other than the perpetrator, the child was not normal during the interval.
College and University Forensic Science Programs—Graduate and Undergraduate
Authors: Midkiff CR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Four years ago, the journal published listings of worldwide educational programs in forensic science and closely related areas [J Forensic Sci 1994;39(2,Mar)]. One of the lists illustrated opportunities for graduate study for those active in the field and desiring further formal education. It could also be useful to individuals with an undergraduate degree in another area but interested in entering the forensic science field. The second list provided information on institutions offering undergraduate programs in forensic science, criminalistics or forensic chemistry. This list was intended to provide a guide of available programs to assist high school or college students initially considering a forensic career. It listed institutions offering undergraduate programs, the program type and points of contact for further information. The graduate list also included information on number of credits for the degree, internship or thesis requirements, areas of specialization, financial assistance, etc. This list encompassed primarily programs at the Master's level with a few options for study toward a doctoral degree.
A Content Analysis of Textbooks on Criminal Investigation: An Evaluative Comparison to Empirical Research Findings on the Investigative Process and the Role of Forensic Evidence
Authors: Horvath F , Meesig R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A content analysis of textbooks on criminal investigation was carried out to determine the degree to which their coverage corresponded to empirical findings on the investigative process and the role of forensic evidence. The results showed that the texts overemphasize forensic evidence relative to its actual use. They underemphasize the role of patrol officers, detective post-arrest activities and the importance of interpersonal communication in investigations. Moreover, the texts are virtually silent on a number of key points such as detective evidence collection activities and how detectives use and give meaning to physical evidence. An analysis of material in newer texts, those available after research findings became widely known, showed little change in emphasis from older volumes. The findings are discussed in relation to training needs for those in the justice system who collect, use and make practical and policy decisions about forensic evidence and investigative outcomes.
Cranial Thickness in American Females and Males
Authors: Ross AH , Jantz RL , McCormick WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To date, numerous studies have examined the range of cranial thickness variation in modern humans. The purpose of this investigation is to present a new method that would be easier to replicate, and to examine sex and age variation in cranial thickness in a white sample. The method consists of excising four cranial segments from the frontal and parietal regions. The sample consists of 165 specimens collected at autopsy and 15 calvarial specimens.
An increase in cranial thickness with age was observed. The results suggest that cranial thickness is not sexually dimorphic outside the onset of hyperostosis frontalis interna (HFI).
Classification and Identification of Color Photocopiers By FT-IR and GC/MS
Authors: Mizrachi N , Aizenshtat Z , Levy S , Elkayam R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Colored toner samples and counterfeit money processed from color photocopiers were collected from the same six manufacturers. Through infrared spectroscopy, a spectral match between the standard toner prowder and the toner extracted from the respective copies counterfeit banknote and documents was achieved. The results allowed the identification of the manufacturers and models, except for one manufacturer for which only partial identification was obtained. The toners were characterized and classified into different groups. Characterization or elimination of the toner extracted from counterfeit money processed by suspected photocopiers, is foreseen through building a transpose library of infrared data. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry results showed that it can be used as a complementary method.
Maternal Identification from Skeletal Remains of an Infant Kept by the Alleged Mother for 16 Years with DNA Typing
Authors: Yamamoto T , Uchihi R , Kojima T , Nozawa H , Huang X-L , Tamaki K , Katsumata Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This is a case study concerning maternal identification by DNA typing at various loci. An infant skeleton was found in the alleged mother's apartment after it was kept for 16 years. We obtained the skeletal remains as well as saliva stains from the alleged mother. DNA typing was conducted for three loci in the HLA class II region (HLA-DQA1, -DPB1, and DRB1), five loci with the AmpliType PM kit (LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and GC), five STR loci (LPL, vWA, F13B, TH01, and TPOX) and D-loop region in mtDNA for maternal identification. Sex determination was accomplished using fluorescent DNA capillary electrophoresis typing. Approximately 5 ng of human DNA was recovered from 1 g of femur bone retrieved from the infant skeletal remains. The probability of two unrelated Japanese sharing the same genotypes was estimated as 7.2 × 10−11. The combined probability of exclusion that an individual is not the mother was also calculated at 0.998. We therefore conclude that the skeleton is from a female infant, and that there is no inconsistency in the claim that the infant was a daughter of the alleged mother.
Ion Chromatographic Analysis of Corrosive Materials in Product Tampering Investigations
Authors: Kaine LA , Jackson DS , Heitkemper DT 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Investigations of product tampering cases involving corrosives focus on the cause of extreme pH, and then attempt to determine the source of the contaminant. The application of ion chromatography to several product tampering cases is discussed. Examples include lye in cold medicine, ammonia in milk, and strong acids in eye drops and a food supplement.
Molecular Phenotyping of a Trinucleotide Repeat (D5S373) Experimental Conditions
Authors: Luis JR , Dios S , Carril JC , Herrera R , Caeiro B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the utility of the STR D5S373 in human identification. PCR amplification and electrophoretic separation were optimized in order to achieve unambiguous phenotyping. We concluded that primer concentration and annealing temperature are the main factors affecting the specificity of PCR. In our population survey including three human major groups (Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia), up to six alleles and six interalleles have been found ranging in size from 86 to 101 bp. The phenotypes were determined using horizontal polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, a technique which has turned out to be suitable for separating fragments as close as 1 bp. In each population, the genotype frequencies conformed to the expectations of genetic equilibrium. Sequence studies were carried out to make the allele nomenclature fit to ISFH recommendations. Results from our population analysis of D5S373 show clear differences in allelic frequency patterns among the three major human groups examined. Human identification parameters estimated from our study are similar to those obtained for other STRs currently used in DNA testing.
Attempted Suicide by Cop: A Case Study of Traumatic Brain Injury and the Insanity Defense
Authors: Bresler S , Scalora MJ , Elbogen EB , Moore YS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Over the years, there have been a number of well-publicized incidents involving persons who seemingly maneuver police officers into shooting them. Such cases, while relatively rare compared with most forms of violence, nevertheless pose difficult challenges to law enforcement agencies. Relatively little is known about persons who engage in suicide by cop incidents. To our knowledge, there has been no published in-depth research on instigators of suicide by cop who survived. In this paper, we present a case study of an individual who engaged in and lived through three separate “attempted suicide by cop” incidents. After describing relevant history as well as events of the most recent incident, we compare the case with the extant literature on suicide by cop and analyze commonalities and differences. Finally, we examine the legal considerations involved, with particular attention devoted to the role the individual's traumatic brain injury played in applying the insanity defense.