bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
An Evaluation of 42 Accelerant Detection Canine Teams
Authors: Tindall R , Lothridge K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
It is estimated that over 200 accelerant detection canines (ADCs) are currently assisting in fire investigations throughout the United States. On many occasions, their ability and reliability have been called into question. The Pinellas County Forensic Laboratory evaluated 42 accelerant detection canine teams in their ability to discriminate between common accelerants and pyrolysis products, to detect common accelerants at low concentrations, to precisely locate accelerants and, to detect different classes of accelerants. Ultimately, the accuracy, dependability and overall effectiveness varied from canine to canine and handler to handler and appeared to be somewhat limited by the canine's training, handling and maintenance. While most of the canine teams performed extremely well and could be an asset to fire investigation, some proved to be unreliable. A universal endorsement or condemnation of all accelerant detection canines could not be made; however, endorsements of specific canine teams and trainers were possible. Every working canine team should be evaluated independently. Routine testing is imperative to establish the canine abilities and limitations.
Estimating Maggot Age from Weight Using Inverse Prediction
Authors: Wells JD , LaMotte LR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic entomological evidence is most often used to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI). Satisfactory techniques have not been available to quantify the precision of such a PMI estimate. For Cochliomyia macellaria (F.) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), we describe construction of a confidence interval on age of a larva, given its weight. The method requires a controlled experiment by which weights of larvae are observed at ages spread over sufficient range to cover the time from egg hatch up to postfeeding stage. A statistical model relating distributions of weights to age is formulated and fit to these data. We assumed a simple model in which both means and variances of weight distributions are linearly interpolated between sampled ages. The weight of a larva of unknown age is then compared to the fitted model via inverse prediction to compute the confidence interval on age of the larva.
Should Coroners Be Able to Recognize Unintentional Carbon Monoxide-Related Deaths Immediately at the Death Scene?
Authors: Risser D , Bönsch A , Schneider B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The aim of this retrospective survey of unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths in Vienna was to determine whether the cherry-pink coloring of livor mortis is a reliable finding for the coroner to suspect a carbon monoxide-related death immediately at the death scene. In addition, we investigated the recognition pattern of unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths by Viennese coroners between 1984 and 1993. Therefore, we analyzed autopsy reports of postmortems performed at the Viennese Institute of Forensic Medicine between 1984 and 1993. The study involved 182 unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths: 92 females and 90 males. We found a strong association between the carboxyhemoglobin level and the cherry-pink coloring of livor motis. In 98.4% of unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths livor mortis were clearly cherry-pink. During the 10-year study period Viennese coroners recognized only 61% of unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths immediately at the death scene. The percentage of unrecognized carbon monoxide fatalities with a clear cherry-pink coloring of livor mortis almost doubled from 1984 to 1993. The older the victim, the worse the coroners recognition. In summary, we have shown that coroners should be able to recognize unintentional carbon monoxide-related deaths immediately at the death-scene, because fresh corpses with carboxyhemoglobin levels greater than 31% show a clear cherry-pink coloring of livor mortis. Therefore, coroners should be encouraged to examine naked corpses thoroughly, especially regarding the color of livor mortis. Thus, a carbon monoxide-related death can be recognized immediately and the source of gas release identified as soon as possible protecting people who otherwise would also be at risk of poisoning. A careful investigation at the death-scene and a good degree of suspicion remain the key to early identification of such a hazard.
Coronary Artery Thromboembolism and Unexpected Death in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Stahl J , Santos LD , Byard RW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two cases of unexpected death in childhood and adolescence associated with coronary artery thromboembolism are reported involving a 6-year-old girl with acute rheumatic fever and left ventricular vegetations, and an 18-year-old adolescent with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease. Although coronary artery thromboembolism is rarely reported in childhood or adolescence, these cases demonstrate that careful examination of the coronary arteries during pediatric autopsy may be helpful in determining factors contributing to death, even at quite young ages. This is particularly so in the presence of predisposing cardiac pathology.
CEDIA for Screening Drugs of Abuse in Urine and the Effect of Adulterants
Authors: Wu AHB , Forte E , Casella G , Sun K , Hemphill G , Foery R , Schanzenbach H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The performance of the Microgenics CEDIA® DAU assays for screening amphetamines, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, cocaine, opiates, phencylidine (PC), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was evaluated on the Boehringer Mannheim/Hitachi 717 in urine. Limits of detection ranged from 0.6 ng/mL for PCP, to 34.1 ng/mL for benzodiazepines. The average within run and total precision for these assays ranged from 1.3 to 7.3% for controls at cutoff concentrations, and control values at −25% and +25% of cutoffs. The rate separations by CEDIA between the negative and cutoff calibrators for all drugs were greater than corresponding EMIT II (Syva Co.) assays. The relative sensitivity and specificity of CEDIA as compared to EMIT II were 95.6 and 98.8%, respectively, on 13,535 urine samples. All positive samples, and those samples producing discordant results between the assays were confirmed by quantitative gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Using SAMHSA cutoff limits (and including barbiturates and benzodiazepines at 300 ng/mL), the relative sensitivity and specificity of CEDIA vs. EMIT II were 96.7 and 98.8%, respectively. The overall sensitivity of CEDIA vs. GC/MS was 98.9% with 179 false positives, as compared to 96.2% with 189 false positives for EMIT II vs. GC/MS. The effect of adulterants added to urine to potentially invalidate screening results was also tested. CEDIA produced strong interferences for most drug assays in the presence of glutaraldehyde, detergent, and high concentrations of bleach and Drano. Minimal or selective interferences were seen with golden seal tea lemon juice, Visine, and low concentrations of bleach and Drano. Essentially no interference was observed with bicarbonate, sodium chloride, and vinegar.
Testing Human Hair for Cannabis II. Identification of THC-COOH by GC-MS-NCI as a Unique Proof
Authors: Kintz P , Cirimele V , Mangin P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To validate information on cannabis use, 11-nor-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol-9-carboxylic (THC-COOH) was investigated in human hair. The identification of THC-COOH in hair would document cannabis use more effectively than the detection of the parent drug which might have come from environmental exposure in a smoky atmosphere. Samples (100 mg) were decontaminated with methylene chloride and destroyed by incubation in 1 mL of 1 N sodium hydroxide for 30 min at 95°C in presence of 10 ng of THC-COOH-d3. After cooling, samples were extracted by n-hexane/ethyl acetate after acidification with acetic acid. After derivatization by PFPA-PFP-OH of the dry extract, drugs were separated on a HP1 capillary column, and detected by mass spectrometry (m/z 602) using negative chemical ionization with methane as reagent gas. Among 30 samples obtained from subjects deceased from fatal heroin overdose, 17 tested positive for THC-COOH, in the range 0.02–0.39 ng/mg, with an average of 0.12 ng/mg.
A New Europium Chelate as a Fluorescent Dye for Cyanoacrylate Pretreated Fingerprints—EuTTAPhen: Europium ThenoylTrifluoroAcetone Ortho-Phenanthroline
Authors: Lock ERA , Mazzella WD , Margot P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of luminescent dyes to enhance fingerprints developed with cyanoacrylate is now a well established procedure in most fingerprint laboratories. Misner, Wilkinson and Watkin [1] have proposed a new fluorescent dye using an Europium complex (TEC). The purpose of the present paper is to report on further studies of this dye (TEC) and some analogues. Preliminary tests on cyanoacrylate pretreated fingerprints showed that a formulation of EuTTAPhen (Europium ThenoylTrifluoroAcetone ortho-phenanthroline) was the most efficient complex giving the best luminescence intensity of the treated fingerprints, a Stokes shift of 262 nm and reduced practical drawbacks.
Elemental and Microscopic Analysis in the 1993 Soft Drink/Syringe Product Tampering Incidents
Authors: Heitkemper DT , Platek SF , Wolnik KA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Throughout the summer of 1993, a large number of alleged product tamperings were reported to the US Food and Drug Administration concerning medical syringes and numerous other items found in carbonated soft drinks. In response to several of these claims, FDA's National Forensic Chemistry Center (NFCC) utilized microscopic and elemental analysis to help establish the veracity of the allegations. The techniques used include inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, stereoscopic light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis. This report describes, in part, studies which were performed in response to some specific product tampering scenarios.
Moves of Murder
Authors: Ballou SM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A missing person report was filed with the local Police Department. In the ensuing days it became apparent this was not just a missing person case when a bloody pillow and pillowcase were recovered from a wooded area not far from the missing woman's home. Careful examination of the pillowcase revealed fragments of a bloody fingerprint and bloody patterns that seemed to indicate the type of weapon used. A thorough search of the woman's bedroom resulted in the recovery of three small blood stains, a wig fiber and a head hair. Although the body of the victim was not recovered during the investigation, the evidence collected and techniques used by the forensic investigators resulted in a guilty plea to second degree murder.
Determination of Fentanyl in Hair: The Case of the Crooked Criminalist
Authors: Selavka CM , Mason AP , Riker CD , Crookham S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
When a State Crime Laboratory Director found that fentanyl patches were missing from a case submission stored in his evidence vault, he performed an investigation of those members of his staff who had access to the materials. As part of this investigation, two staff members were forced to submit to hair testing for fentanyl and other opiates and opioids. This unusual testing protocol was used to identify a senior Criminalist as a chronic abuser of fentanyl, and led to the rapid resolution of the case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the forensic analysis of hair for drugs of abuse in which the technology was used to identify an individual as a chronic fentanyl abuser.
Biotransformation of Acetone to Isopropanol Observed in a Motorist Involved in a Sobriety Check
Authors: Jones AW , Andersson L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report the identification of acetone (0.45 mg/mL) and isopropanol (0.17 mg/mL) but without the presence of ethanol in a blood sample from a man suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol. A preliminary breath screening test with an electrochemical instrument (Alcolmeter S-L2) was positive and an evidential breath-test with a dual wavelength infrared analyzer (Intoxilyzer 5000), recognized the presence of an interferant in the subject's breath. The man admitted drinking moderate amounts of alcohol (vodka) the previous evening and was being treated by his doctor for hyperglycemia by special dietary control. This case scenario provides a good example of severe metabolic ketoacidosis in an ostensibly healthy man driving on the highway. Biotransformation of the abnormally high concentration of blood-acetone to isopropanol occurs through the alcohol dehydrogenase pathway.
Positive Identification By Post-Surgical Defects from Unilateral Lambdoid Synostectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Hogge JP , Messmer JM , Fierro MF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The comparison of pre- and postmortem radiographs as a method of identification of unknown human remains is well established in the forensic and radiologic literature. Identification can be based on a single bony feature when there is evidence of prior surgery, trauma or unusual anatomic variation. We present a case in which a positive identification was made using bony changes in the skull secondary to prior surgery for correction of unilateral lambdoid craniosynostosis. The unusual radiographic appearance of the bony defect initially raised the question of trauma and foul play.
Confirmation of the Identity of Human Skeletal Remains Using Multiplex PCR Amplification and Typing Kits
Authors: Hochmeister MN , Budowle B , Borer UV , Rudin O , Bohnert M , Dirnhofer R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The identity of human skeletal remains found in a wooded area approximately one year after the person was reported missing was provisionally established by routine methods and circumstantial evidence. Multiplex PCR systems—the AmpliType® PM PCR Amplification and Typing Kit and the GenePrint™ STR Triplex Amplification and Typing Kit—were used to confirm the identification. DNA profiles from femur bone from the remains were compared with profiles derived from head hairs from a hairbrush recovered in the missing woman's apartment. In addition, a sex typing procedure using the X-Y homologous gene amelogenin was carried out. This is the first report of a case using commercially available multiplex PCR amplification and typing kits to confirm the identity of skeletal remains.
Separation of Latent Fingermark Residue by Thin-Layer Chromatography
Authors: Bramble SK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for the separation of the lipid and nitrogeneous constituents of latent fingermarks using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) is described. The lipid partition is separated into bands corresponding to fatty acids, cholesterol, squalene, and triglyceride controls. Observation of developed plates using ultraviolet fluorescence detection in the region 310–390 nm has determined that the major fluorescent material is lipid in nature and runs with the squalene control band. After running, the TLC plates were treated with the following latent fingermark enhancement procedures: visible fluorescence, ninhydrin, 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one and physical developer. The technique provides an approach to understanding the chemical and photoluminescent processes of latent fingermark enhancement.
Arson Trend Increasing—A Real Challenge to Psychiatry
Authors: Räsänen P , Hakko H , Väisänen E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This research evaluated the arson trend in Finland since the 1960s by analyzing the Official Crime Statistics of Finland registered by the police and examined more detailed about arsonists (n = 98), who had been in the forensic psychiatric pretrial examination by using homicide offenders (n = 55) as control subjects. From 1965 to 1991 the percentage of arson in relation to all crimes increased fivefold and in the same timeframe the amount of arson increased nearly tenfold. According to the police in Finland there are committed over 700 arsons every year, of which 90% are committed by men. The percentage of women has however increased 0.2% yearly. Women today commit about 10% and juveniles 10 to 15% of all arsons. The arsonists differed from the homicide offenders regarding rural residence (P = 0.009), poor education (P = 0.004), absence of regular work at the time of the crime (P = 0.004), suicidality (P = 0.001), alcohol problems (P = 0.002), psychiatric care (P = 0.000,02) and arsonists more commonly found to be not responsible for the crime committed (P = 0.01).
Postmortem Acetaminophen Pharmacokinetics: An Experimental Study of Site and Time-Dependent Concentration Changes
Authors: Gomez HF , McKinney P , Phillips S , Roberts DV , Brent J , Watson WA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Postmortem blood drug concentrations are obtained routinely for assessment of the cause of mortality. However, the relationship of postmortem drug concentration to blood concentrations at the time of death remains poorly characterized. Using Ketamine sedation, 10 New Zealand white rabbits were sacrificed 20 minutes after oral gavage with liquid acetaminophen 160 mg/kg as a model drug. Blood samples were obtained from peripheral (femoral vein) and central sites (heart & inferior cava) over time and compared with heart blood concentrations obtained at the time of sacrifice. The mean ± SE antemortem acetaminophen concentration was 63.1 ± 14.6 mcg/mL. Postmortem central blood concentrations were as follows: T = 3 h: 200.8 ± 129.2 µg/mL, T = 6 h: 100.8 ± 39.6 µg/mL and T = 12 h: 480.8 ± 128.8 µg/mL. Postmortem peripheral site results were: T = 3 h: 50.2 ± 21.4 µg/mL, T = 6 h: 100.8 ± 18.1 and T = 12 h: 117.7 ± 37.2 µg/mL.
Overall, blood acetaminophen concentrations increased significantly over time for central sampling sites. Drug concentration increases seen in the central sampling sites were several times higher than that seen in peripheral blood. Blood samples taken from peripheral sites did not alter significantly. The results of this controlled study were consistent with previous autopsy case series and case reports suggesting that postmortem drug concentrations do not reflect premortem values. Variables affecting postmortem drug concentrations include both postmortem sampling time and anatomic blood collection site.
The Validity of Bitewing Radiographs for the Dental Identification of Children
Authors: Kogon SL , McKay AE , MacLean DF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Visual comparison of antemortem and postmortem bitewing radiographs of children and adolescents were made by observers with a range of experience using an established protocol. There was no statistically significant difference between the sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the test results between children (6–9 years) and adolescents (8–11 years). The average sensitivity, specificity and accuracy of the pooled results for children was marginally less than for adults, but the difference was not statistically significant.
The Differentiation of Illicit Methaqualone Tablet Formulations Using Principal Component and Soft Independent Modeling of Class Analogy Analysis of Their Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectra
Authors: Van Zyl EF , Louw M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The viability of using principal component analysis (PCA) and soft independent modeling of class analogy analysis (SIMCA) of the near-infrared reflectance spectra of illicit methaqualone tablet formulations as an aid in sample differentiation was investigated.
Near-infrared spectra of ten different illicit species occurring on the South African market was obtained through direct diffuse reflectance measurements made on the tablet surfaces using a bidirectional fiber-bundle probe.
The learning set was analyzed using PCA and SIMCA and resolved in well-separated clusters thus making differentiation possible.
Casework Experience of GSR Detection in Israel, on Samples from Hands, Hair, and Clothing Using an Autosearch SEM/EDX System
Authors: Zeichner A , Levin N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Casework experience in the detection of GSR particles on samples from hands, hair and clothing is reported for the period of 6 years (1989–1994). The overall “success” rate on the examined samples is about 10%. Aspects of the sampling procedures, the number of particles detected per sample and problems of possible contamination are discussed.
Provenance and Authenticity of Roman Sculptures by Petrographic Techniques
Authors: Lazzarini L , Lombardi G 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic petrographic methods—such as microscopy, X-ray diffraction and thin section examination—applied to materials of archaeological interest—provided reliable answers to questions related to their provenance. It could be demonstrated that the patina on a Roman marble statue had been faked and that the genetic history of earthy incrustations on the sculptures and on a fragment of marble from an illegal excavation site was the same, therefore indicating a common provenance. Moreover, the same techniques proved that a terracotta fragment found in the belts of an excavator was from the same area as the illegal excavation site.
Visceral Larva Migrans Induced Eosinophilic Cardiac Pseudotumor: A Cause of Sudden Death in a Child
Authors: Boschetti A , Kasznica J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case of fatal cardiac larva migrans in a 10-year-old boy is described. The autopsy findings were quite dramatic, with a bosselated, sessile polypoid mass involving the left ventricular myocardium and protruding into the ventricular lumen. The precise morphologic characterization of the zoonotic ascarid larva was impaired by advanced resorption of the larva by an inflammatory infiltrate. Nonetheless, morphometry of the larval remnants strongly suggested the raccon ascarid, Baylisascaris procyonis, as the causative agent.
A Survey and Comparison of Heroin Seizures in Israel During 1992 by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry
Authors: Levy R , Ravreby M , Meirovich L , Shapira-Heiman O 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
During 1992, a survey was performed on heroin powder exhibits seized throughout Israel. The main objectives were to detect salt forms and additives and compare the powders for intelligence and investigation purposes. A total of 3817 exhibits were scanned by FTIR; five major groups were distinguished: heroin free base, heroin base with caffeine, heroin base with paracetamol (acetaminophen), heroin base containing both caffeine and paracetamol, and a mixture of heroin base, heroin HCl and caffeine. In addition, 419 exhibits collected during a two month period were compared amongst themselves and categorized into sub-groups based on the similarity of their spectra. Based on this data, it was possible to define 116 different sub-groups, of which 56 sub-groups contained from 2 to 47 samples. Of the total number of cases tested, 78% were in the weight range 1 mg-1 g, that is, user quantities. Results were tabulated on both a geographical and monthly basis. Differences were found in the distribution of additives between different geographical areas of the country.