bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Opiate Concentrations in Human Head, Axillary, and Public Hair
Authors: Kintz P , Mangin P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The concentrations of morphine and codeine were investigated in hair from the head, axillary and public regions obtained from 12 fatal heroin cases. Hair preparation involves a decontamination procedure in dichloromethane at 37°C for 15 min, solubilization in sodium hydroxyde at 100°C for 5 min, neutralization with hydrochloric acid and centrifugation. After extraction in chloroform-isopropanol-n-heptane (50:17:33; v/v) at pH 9.2, drugs were derivatized with BSTFA + 1% TMCS and separated on a 12-m BP-5 capillary column. Quantification was done by GC/MS using selected ion monitoring. The highest morphine concentrations were found in public hair (0.80 to 41.34 ng/mg), followed by hair of the head (0.62 to 27.10 ng/mg), and axillary hair (0.40 to 24.20 ng/mg). Codeine was also detected in all samples, and the codeine-to-morphine ratios ranged from 0.069 to 0.273. The differences observed in drug concentration in the 3 types of hair are discussed in the light of the existing literature.
Interpretation of Low Postmortem Concentrations of Ethanol
Authors: Levine B , Smith ML , Smialek JE , Caplan YH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The interpretation of postmortem blood ethanol concentrations (BAC). especially those less than 0.05 g/dL can be complicated by postmortem ethanol formation. One method used by the toxicologist to respond to this possibility is to analyze multiple specimens for ethanol. Two useful specimens to analyze are vitreous humor and urine, because they are less susceptible to the putrefaction process. A negative vitreous humor and/or urine ethanol would suggest that the measured ethanol resulted from postmortem formation. Data were collected from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland and the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology on blood specimens with ethanol concentrations less than 0.05 g/dL to develop a reasonable threshold for interpretation in the absence of other specimens. A total of 381 cases with a BAC between 0.01 and 0.04 g/dL were studied over a 2 year period. Urine and vitreous humor specimens were tested where available. At a BAC of 0.01 g/dL, 54% of the cases were associated with a positive vitreous humor and/or urine ethanol concentration. This percentage increased to 63% when BAC equals 0.02 g/dL. Seventy-three percent and 92% of the cases had a positive alternate specimen if the BAC was 0.03 g/dL and 0.04 g/dL, respectively. In addition, 90% of the cases where both vitreous humor and urine were analyzed showed consistent results, that is both specimens were positive or negative. This suggests that in the absence of additional information, a BAC of 0.04 g/dL or higher probably resulted from ethanol consumption.
Solid Phase Extraction of Morphine from Whole Blood by Means of Bond Elut Certify Columns
Authors: Chen X-H , Hommerson ALC , Zweipfenning PGM , Franke J-P , Harmen-Boverhof CW , Ensing K , de Zeeuw RA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of Bond Elut Certify columns for the isolation of morphine from whole blood was evaluated. In order to monitor possible losses and the elution profile of morphine, a small amount of the tritiated analogue was added to the samples. Four sample pretreatment methods, three protein precipitation methods and one sonication/dilution method, were tested. The latter one gave the best results. The blood sample was applied onto the column at pH 3.3 after sonication and dilution with 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 3.3). The retention of morphine was affected by the pH of the samples, and the loss of morphine during sample application was minimized at low pH (3.3). The interferences were removed by washing the column with the phosphate buffer, 0.01 M acetic acid (pH 3.3), and methanol, sequentially. Ammoniated methanol, 2 mL at 2%, was selected to elute morphine. As a result, more than 80% of 3H-morphine was recovered for concentrations of morphine ranging from 5 to 4000 ng/mL.
Evaluation of Morphological and Histological Adult Skeletal Age-at-Death Estimation Techniques Using Ribs
Authors: Dudar JC , Pfeiffer S , Saunders SR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Adult age-at-death estimation standards were applied to an independent sample (N = 50, 55) of documented ages 17.5 to 95 years. Estimates derived from the sternal rib end morphological and from the cortical rib histological techniques were compared with each other and to the documented ages. Comparisons to the documented ages reveal no statistically significant differences between the techniques. However, the comparison of each individual's estimates show a poor correlation (r = 0.54) despite the equal performance of the age estimations on the entire sample. Averaging of the two rib age estimates results in an estimate with a stronger Pearson's r (0.86) and a lower standard error of the estimate (7.5 years).
DNA Fingerprinting from Tissues After Variable Postmortem Periods
Authors: Ludes B , Pfitzinger H , Mangin P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
DNA typing is a useful tool in forensic cases for determining the identity of remains of humans who have been dead for various periods of time. DNA fingerprinting can be achieved only if high molecular weight DNA (HMWDNA) is extracted from the tissue samples of the bodies even after a long postmortem delay. Analyses were performed on various tissues collected during forensic autopsies of 24 bodies known postmortem ages. Tissues such as blood and kidney were found to be unsuitable for DNA fingerprinting because of a rapid degradation of the DNA after a period of one week. HMWDNA could be successfully extracted from brain cortex regardless of postmortem age.
Purification of Forensic Specimens for the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Analysis
Authors: Akane A , Shiono H , Matsubara K , Nakamura H , Hasegawa M , Kagawa M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Purification methods of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from degraded and contaminated forensic samples were investigated for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. DNA extracted from putrefied tissue or bloodstains sometimes contained the copurified contaminant, that was identified as the porphyrin compound (hematin). When contaminated but less degraded DNA was analyzed by PCR, it was necessary to eliminate the impurity by anion exchange column chromatography or chelating resin preparation, and ultrafiltration using Centricon microconcentrators. When highly degraded DNA was analyzed, trace amounts of high molecular weight DNA was recovered by electroelution method, and then further purified by both column chromatography and ultrafiltration. From thus purified samples, the amelogenin gene for sex determination could be amplified by dual PCR technique.
The Effect of Killing and Preservative Solutions on Estimates of Maggot Age in Forensic Cases
Authors: Tantawi TI , Greenberg B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Length of the oldest maggots recovered from a body often provide an accurate estimate of the time since death. The length of maggots of Protophormia terraenovae (Robineau-Desvoidy) of known age, at peak of feeding, was measured after 5 days immersion in one of 15 killing and preservative solutions, some of which are routinely used at autopsy and in forensic entomology; controls were killed in boiling water. There was shrinkage in all 15 solutions which translated into an underage error of 9.7 h in 70% ethanol, 11 h in San Veino and 16.8 h in formalin. Larvae of Calliphora vicina (Robineau-Desvoidy) underwent even greater shrinkage, which resulted in an underage error of 19.2 h in 70% ethanol, 26.4 h in formalin and 28.8 h in San Veino. Young third instar larvae underwent more shrinkage than older ones, with underage errors (in hours) as follows: P. terraenovae—70% ethanol, 24 and San Veino, 24; C. vicina—70% ethanol, 7.2 and San Veino, 14.4. Maggots killed in boiling water and then placed in preservative solutions did not shrink. Length of the crop, which may be useful in age estimates of postfeeding larvae, was not altered significantly for forensic purposes in these solutions. The highly significant alterations in maggot length underscore a need for standardization in the treatment of maggots collected at the crime scene and at autopsy if their length is to be interpreted in a valid and consistent way. Recommendations are made for treatment of maggots wherever they are collected.
Documentation of a Doxylamine Overdose Death: Quantitation by Standard Addition and Use of Three Instrumental Techniques
Authors: Siek TJ , Dunn WA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To answer the question. “Is this death due to a drug overdose?” requires at least that the drug be unequivocally identified and a blood concentration reliably determined. The approach taken in this case as standard addition technique and use of three different chromatographic techniques—high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), high performance thin—layer chromatography (HP-TLC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Each of the chromatographies was carried out on the same extract by splitting the residue three ways. HPLC provided a quantitative result which was 1.2 mg/L in blood and HP-TLC and GC/MS confirmed this result with additional quantitative data, information about two metabolites (nordoxylamine and dinordoxylamine) and conclusive identification. Blood nordoxylamine was 0.52 mg/L and doxylamine plus metabolites in urine was 25 mg/L.
Fatal Intoxication Involving Etryptamine
Authors: Morano RA , Spies C , Walker FB , Plank SM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case of fatal intoxication due to the ingestion of Etryptamine (ethyltryptamine) is reported. Toxicological findings included the following tissue distribution: blood (heart) 5.6 mg/L: urine 80.4 mg/L; vitreous 2.4 mg/L; bile 22.0 mg/L; stomach contents 52.9 mg. brain 16.2 mg/g; liver 18.3 mg/g and kidney 24.0 mg/g. Anatomic pathology showed pulmonary edema and generalized visceral congestion with some epicardial petechiae.
Cerebral Vasculitis Associated with Cocaine Abuse
Authors: Morrow PL , McQuillen JB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A variety of central nervous system pathology has been associated with cocaine abuse, including cerebral vasculitis. We report a case of a 25-year-old woman who died of hypoxic encephalopathy following cardiac arrest due to cocaine abuse. Autopsy revealed a distinctive cerebral vasculitis with features characteristic of hypersensitivity drug included vasculitis. The significance of cerebral vasculitis associated with cocaine is reviewed.
Identification of Gunpowder in Healed Wounds
Authors: Smith OC , Berryman HE , Symes SA , LeVaughn MM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A woman received a contact gunshot wound to the abdomen from a .22 caliber revolver. She recovered only to succumb to another gunshot wound six months later. The initial wound was dissected and multiple intact granules of round flake gunpowder were recovered. Cross sections of granules were clearly identifiable in histologic slides. Recovery of intact powder in remote wounds has not been previously described and may help classify the ammunition and weapon used to produce the injury.
A Review of How to Set Your Fees and Get Them
Authors: Rowe WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This is a brief book on a topic that should be dear to the hearts of free lance forensic consultants: How to set up a fee schedule and how to collect one's fees once the job's done. Its chapters discuss such matters as how to determine what your time and knowledge are worth, how to choose an appropriate fee structure (per hour, per day, fiat rate and the like), how to go about quoting the fee to the potential client, how to close the consulting agreement with a letter of agreement (examples of which are provided in an appendix) and what to do if problems arise.
A Review of Instrumental Data for Drug Analysis
Authors: Baselt RC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This volume continues in the same vein as the first 4 volumes of this reference set, which were issued in 1987. Volumes 1–3 contain alphabetical listings for approximately 1200 drugs, showing for each drug on two pages the reference spectra by ultraviolet, infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry analysis. Volume 4 contains an index and several appendices, with sequential page numbering of all 4 volumes for a total of 2682 pages.
A Review of Clinical Psychiatry and the Law
Authors: Berger SH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Many mental health practitioners are frightened by the confusing and restrictive legal requirements imposed upon their practices. This book is for them. The purpose of this book is to guide the mental health clinician in conducting his practice according to the requirements of the legal system without fear. While other books scare clinicians away from practice, and promote defensive modes of practice, this book seeks to provide familiarity with the legal requirements in order to diminish fears and defensive practices.
An Anthropometric Study of Pedophiles and Rapists
Authors: Taylor D , Myers WC , Robbins L , Barnard GW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Anthropometric measurements were obtained on pedophiles (n = 23) and rapists (n = 13) who were in a forensic treatment facility. Hand grip strength was measured with a Jamar hand dynamometer. Ten separate body measurements were taken including height and weight. As an indicator of body fat, triceps skinfold thickness was obtained with calipers on the non-dominant arm. The findings provided mild support for the hypothesis that the rapists in the sample would be stronger, more muscular, and have less body fat than the pedophiles.
Sex Determination from Metacarpals and the First Proximal Phalanx
Authors: Scheuer JL , Elkington NM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Sex determination using metacarpals and the first proximal phalanx was carried out on a sample (n = 60) of documented sex. Six measurements were taken on each of metacarpals 1 to 5 and the first proximal phalanx. Regression equations were calculated for determining sex from the bones. The equations were then applied to a second sample (n = 20) also of documented sex to establish the degree of accuracy they produced in assigning sex. The equations for metacarpal 1 produced the highest degree of correct sex determination and overall the degree of accuracy ranged from 74% to 94%.
Osteometry of the Human Iliac Crest: Patterns of Normality and Its Utility in Sexing Human Remains
Authors: Fernández Camacho FJ , Pellico LG , Rodríguez RF-V 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We recorded nine measurements and one index of the iliac crest in 42 human hip bones from a Spanish skeletal collection. Common values of seven of these parameters and index are reported. We could detect statistically significant differences of means depending on side for two of these parameters (iliac crest rise, distance from the upper point of the iliac crest to the anterior superior spine) and for the iliac crest index, and relating to sex for three parameters (iliac crest arch, iliac crest rise, distance from the upper point of the iliac crest to the anterior superior spine) and for the index. These measurements and index are useful for sexing human remains.
Identification of Rib Number and Assessment of Intercostal Variation at the Sternal Rib End
Authors: Dudar JC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A technique for the identification of anatomical rib number is presented here. Preliminary tests indicate that with experience, percent accuracy for identification may approach 100%. This technique was then applied to a skeletal collection where rib number was not documented in order to determine the effects of intercostal variation on the application of rib four age-at-death estimation standards [2,3] to other ribs. Spearman rank correlations between rib four and ribs three through nine range from 0.89 to 0.91. No significant differences were found between ribs conforming to or deviating from the phase observed on rib four. There is a significant proportion of deviations falling below the phase set by rib four, however these deviations are not statistically associated with rib number and are usually within one phase. These results indicate that rib four standards can be cautiously applied to other sternal ends when rib four is not preserved.
Determination of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antibody Status in Forensic Autopsy Cases Using a Rapid and Simple FDA-Licensed Assay
Authors: Li L , Constantine NT , Zhang X , Smialek JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Evaluation of an FDA-licensed rapid assay to detect antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was accomplished by testing 414 serum samples collected sequentially from autopsy cases at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland. The time of postmortem collection ranged from 8 to 30 hours. All samples were tested for the presence of antibodies to HIV using a rapid peptide microfiltration assay (SUDS HIV-1 test, Murex Corporation, Norcross, GA), and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Samples yielding repeatedly reactive results were confirmed by Western blot. Of the 414 specimens, 23 (5.6%) produced reactive results by both SUDS and ELISA, and were confirmed by Western blot. One additional sample was repeatedly reactive by ELISA but negative by the SUDS test. This sample produced an indeterminate profile by Western blot (reactivity to only p24) and was negative by several additional retroviral assays. Of the 23 HIV infected cases, 16 had risk factors for HIV infection; 19 were blacks and 18 were male. The SUDS, 10 minute test, exhibited a 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in comparison to FDA-licensed ELISA and Western blot assays for detecting HIV antibody in autopsy serum specimens. We conclude that this rapid, simply performed assay is accurate and applicable for use in several testing situations, including autopsy rooms.
Disappearance of Soft Tissue and the Disarticulation of Human Remains from Aqueous Environments
Authors: Haglund WD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Human remains recovered from aquatic environments were scored for regional presence of soft tissue, exposure of bone, and loss of body parts to determine the general pattern of soft tissue loss and loss of body parts. Regions scored were: the cranium, mandible, neck, hands, forearms, upper arms, feet, legs, pelvic girdle, and trunk. Initial disappearance of soft tissue, resulting in exposure of underlying bones, occurred in areas thinly overlain by soft tissue beginning with the head, hands, and anterior lower legs. Disappearance of body parts followed the general sequence: bones of the hands and wrists, bones of the feet and ankles, and the mandible and cranium. The lower legs, forearms, and upper arms are the next units to separate from the body.
Known postmortem intervals for remains analyzed ranged from weeks to years and could not reliably be estimated based on the condition of the body at the time of recovery. As parts drop away from a floating carcass in large or current-driven bodies of water, they are often separated from the major body unit. This complicates recovery. Knowledge of disarticulation sequences allows more informed assessment of skeletal element recoveries to be expected and assists in the interpretation of artifacts and events produced by different disarticulating environments.
A Computer Program for the Estimation of Time of Death
Authors: Lynnerup N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In the 1960s Marshall and Hoare presented a “Standard Cooling Curve” based on their mathematical analyses on the postmortem cooling of bodies. Although fairly accurate under standard conditions, the “curve” or formula is based on the assumption that the ambience temperature is constant and that the temperature at death is known. Also, Marshall and Hoare's formula expresses the temperature as a function of time, and not vice versa, the latter being the problem most often encountered by forensic scientists.
A simple BASIC program that enables solving of Marshall and Hoare's equation for the postmortem cooling of bodies is presented. It is proposed that by having a computer program that solves the equation, giving the length of the cooling period in response to a certain rectal temperature, and which allows easy comparison of multiple solutions, the uncertainties related to ambience temperature and temperature at death can be quantified, substantiating estimations of time of death.
Infant Death in San Francisco 1989–1990
Authors: Castiglione AG , Greenwald M , Stephens BG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper examines all of the unexplained and violent deaths of children less than one year of age in the City and County of San Francisco during the years 1989–1990. A total of 62 cases were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Among the cases we examined, 34 deaths were determined as SIDS, while seven were moded as accidents and two as homicides. The deaths were examined with respect to the following parameters: sex, race, age, height and weight, cause and manner of death, significant autopsy and microscopic findings; circumstances of death including place, the person discovering or reporting the death, the presence of siblings or previous child death in the family and previous illness in the same child. A particular stress is given to the definition and diagnosis of SIDS, according to the international literature, and to the criteria adopted to distinguish SIDS cases from accidents and homicides. A review of both the American and European literature shows that most articles do not include comparisons of data from both the autopsy and the scene. Additionally there is little standardization in the investigation and the extent of postmortem examinations performed. An international standardization of these methods appears necessary and the use of protocols to assure complete investigation and postmortem examination will allow more intensive evaluation of data. Here we give a brief presentation of the necropsy protocol for Sudden Unexpected Infant Death recently written and approved by the California Department of Health Services and used in the Chief Medical Examiner's Office in San Francisco.
Gang-Related Homicides in Los Angeles County
Authors: Rogers C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The incidence of gang homicides in Los Angeles County has increased faster than that of non-gang homicides in the past decade. This study compares characteristics of gang homicide victims with those of non-gang homicide victims for the year 1987. In 1186 cases, gang members were more likely to be young Black men who died of gunshot wounds. Gang homicide victims were more likely to die of firearm injuries in the early evening, and were more likely to die in a relatively small area of Los Angeles County. Drive-by shooting was highly associated with gang homicide.
Development and Implementation of the First Clinical Forensic Medicine Training Program
Authors: Smock WS , Nichols GR , Fuller PM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To address the un-met forensic needs of victims who are survivors of violent crimes and trauma, the first residency-based clinical forensic medicine training program and fellowship has been established. The Kentucky Medical Examiner's Office and the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville are currently training physicians to provide clinical forensic evaluations. The clinical forensic physicians evaluate adult and pediatric victims of blunt and penetrating trauma, sexual and physical abuse and collect evidentiary material when indicated. The development of a clinical forensic medicine training program and fellowship at the resident physician level is internationally unique.
Reduction of Specular Reflectance on Projectiles and Toolmarks by Ammonium Chloride Fuming
Authors: Rios FG , Thornton JI 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for reducing specular reflectance from metallic surfaces in which ammonium chloride is used as a fuming reagent is described. This method has the advantage of being easily controlled, and is rapid. The deposit of ammonium chloride salt on the metallic surface is easily and effectively removed by washing.