bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The FAA's Postmortem Forensic Toxicology Self-Evaluated Proficiency Test Program: The First Seven Years
Authors: Chaturvedi AK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Existing proficiency-testing (PT) programs do not address the complexity of postmortem forensic toxicology. These programs do not include decomposed samples and solid tissues. Therefore, the Federal Aviation Administration in July 1991 started such a needed PT program. This program is used to: (i) professionally develop and maintain technical currency on a voluntary, interlaboratory, and self-evaluation basis, and (ii) quantifiably assess methods in the absence and presence of interfering substances. There are currently about 30 laboratories in the program. Functioning under various governmental/non-governmental agencies and academic institutions, these laboratories represent a broad cross-section of the country. PT samples are distributed quarterly, and result summaries are sent to the participants, while maintaining their anonymity. Since the inception of the program, 28 PT samples encompassing whole blood, plasma, urine, kidney, or liver, with (or without) drugs, metabolites, and common chemicals (nicotine, caffeine, β-phenylethylamine, etc.) have been analyzed by the participants. Analytical findings were generally consistent with the anticipated values, but they were dependent on the nature and conditions of the specimens and types of the added analytes. Some incidences of false positives of concern were noted, as well. This PT program is one of the few programs recommended by the American Board of Forensic Toxicology in which laboratories may participate for their accreditation by the Board. It is anticipated that this PT program will continue to play a critical part in supporting the quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) component of forensic toxicology, thereby enhancing operational performance.
Population Frequency for the Short Tandem Repeat Loci D18S849, D3S1744, and D12S1090 in Caucasian-Mestizo and African Descent Populations of Colombia
Authors: Yunis JJ , Garcia O , Baena A , Arboleda G , Uriarte I , Yunis E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples from 489 unrelated Caucasian Mestizo and 252 individuals of African descent in Colombia were amplified and typed for three short tandem repeat (STR) markers (D12S1090, D3S1744, and D18S849). All markers conformed to Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations in both populations studied. In addition, heterozygosity, mean exclusion chance, polymorphism information content, discrimination power, and the assumption of independence within and between loci were determined. The mean exclusion chance for all three STR markers is 0.9750 in the Caucasian Mestizo population and 0.9731 in the African Colombian Population. The discrimination power is 0.999925 and 0.999911 in the Caucasian Mestizo and African Colombian respectively.
Population Genetics of Nine STR Loci in Two Populations from Brazil
Authors: Corte-Real F , Andrade L , Anjos MJ , Carvalho M , Vieira DN , Carracedo A , Vide MC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) D3S1358, HUMvWA31/A, HUMFIBRA/FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, and D7S820 were studied in two Brazilian populations (from Amazonia and S. Paulo) using the “AmpF1 STR Profiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit.” The nine loci showed a combined discrimination power greater than 0.9999999999 and a chance of exclusion of 0.9999.
Swiss Allele Frequencies and Haplotypes of 7 Y-Specific STRs
Authors: Gehrig C , Hochmeister M , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In view of application to personal identification and paternal analysis, the allele distribution of the loci DYS19, DYS389 I and II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, and DYS393 were determined in a sample of 126 unrelated males from the area of Bern (Switzerland). The 7 Y-STR loci were coamplified in a total of two multiplex reactions using fluorescently-labeled primers. PCR products were separated and detected on a capillary electrophoresis ABI Prism 310 instrument. All loci were polymorphic and the allele distributions are similar to other caucasian data.
The Distribution of D1S80 and VWA Alleles in a Karen Population from Northern Thailand
Authors: Steger HF , Bhoopat T , Sridoungkaew S , Sanguansermsri T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The D1S80 and VWA loci were studied in a Karen population from Northern Thailand by the polymerase chain reaction and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Twelve D1S80 and six VWA alleles were found. No deviations from the Hardy-Weinberg and linkage equilibrium were observed. The power of exclusion (PE) from the analysis of the D1S80 and VWA locus is 0.67 and 0.45, respectively, the power of discrimination (PD) is 0.95 and 0.85, respectively, with a combined PD of 0.99 and PE of 0.82.
Population Genetics of the D1S1656, D12S391, and D18S535 Loci in Asturias (North Spain)
Authors: Martínez-Jarreta B , Marco PN , Martínez EA , Huidobro MVL , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele and genotype frequencies for three recently described short tandem repeat loci D1S1656, D12S391, and D18S535 were determined in a population sample from Asturias (North Spain). The loci were amplified using a fluorescence based PCR method and were typed automatically. No deviation from Hardy-Weinberg expectations were observed. The three loci proved to be highly discriminating and the allele frequencies observed are similar to those of the other European populations that have been typed for these loci to date.
Threat Mail and Forensic Science: DNA Profiling from Items of Evidence After Treatment with DFO
Authors: Zamir A , Oz C , Geller B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two cases of threatening letters with their accompanying envelopes were received to the Division of Forensic Identification unit of the Israel Police. The envelopes, including the stamps, and the letters were initially examined for latent fingerprints by the DFO reagent, known to cause degradation of DNA. Although no latent fingerprints could be visualized on any of the items, the biology laboratory using organic DNA extraction, was successful in defining genetic profiles from all the items employing six STR loci, even after treatment with DFO.
In a controlled experiment, a known donor attached a stamp, by licking, to an envelope. This item was treated with DFO and then profiled using STR loci. The results showed that previous DFO treatment on the control stamp before DNA analysis had no negative effects on obtaining the DNA profile of the known donor using STR loci.
Analysis of Primer Residue from Lead Free Ammunition by X-Ray Microfluorescence
Authors: Charpentier B , Desrochers C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In forensic science, the analysis of gunshot residues was traditionally done by the detection of lead (Pb), antimony (Sb) and barium (Ba) usually found in a primer. However, the recent development of lead-free ammunition represents a new challenge for ballistic specialists. This analysis study gunshot residues from primers and ammunitions in the area surrounding bullet holes, a very important tool to determine the shooting distance. The ammunitions used were 9 mm Luger and .38 spl + p calibers, where lead in the primer was replaced with strontium (Sr) and where the lead bullet was plated with copper (Total Metal Jacket). Gunshot analysis results were obtained using an energy dispersive X-ray microfluorescence spectrometer. The method allows the detection and quantification of strontium residues on the target up to a distance of 45 cm.
The Detection and Analysis of Ignitable Liquid Residues Extracted from Human Skin Using SPME/GC
Authors: Almirall JR , Wang J , Lothridge K , Furton KG 
Published: August 2015

AbstractA simple, fast, inexpensive, and sensitive technique for the detection and identification of flammable or combustible liquid residues on the skin of arson suspects is presented. The use of solid phase microextraction (SPME) for the analysis of ignitable liquid residues has been demonstrated and it is shown in this work that this technique is effective in extracting these liquid residues at extremely low quantities. Microliter quantities of controlled spikes of gasoline, diesel fuel, and charcoal lighter fluid were deposited on the hands of a volunteer and extracted after several time intervals. The SPME technique can recover very small amounts of liquid deposits on skin up to 3.5 h after exposure, depending on the class of the ignitable liquid residue used.
Sex Variation in the Second Cervical Vertebra
Authors: Wescott DJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The second cervical vertebra can be used to estimate sex with 83% accuracy in unidentified human skeletal remains. Reported here are the necessary statistics, based on 8 dimensions taken from 400 second cervical vertebrae, for the computation of customized discriminant functions. Discriminant function equations developed using variables selected in a stepwise procedure are also presented here as an example of the usefulness of this bone in estimating sex.
Use of Radiographic Atlases in a Mass Fatality
Authors: Warren MW , Smith KR , Stubblefield PR , Martin SS , Walsh-Haney HA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In May and June of 1996, a forensic anthropology team from the C.A. Pound Human Identification Laboratory at the University of Florida identified 9 of 10 juveniles from the crash of ValuJet 592. The team relied primarily on a radiographic atlas developed and used by clinical practitioners to determine skeletal age. Postmortem radiographs of the juvenile victims were compared with radiographic standards to determine skeletal age. Skeletal age was then compared to a passenger list indicating the sex, weight, height, and chronological age of each individual. Tentative identifications based on the atlas method were organized into an exclusion matrix. Final identifications were based on this assessment in conjunction with other anthropological data such as appearance and fusion of ossification centers and estimation of stature.
A Fatal Case of Chlorate Poisoning: Confirmation by Ion Chromatography of Body Fluids
Authors: Eysseric H , Vincent F , Peoc'h M , Marka C , Aitken Y , Barret L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 49-year-old male chemical industry worker was admitted to intensive care with a 24-hour history of respiratory failure, vomiting, headache, stupor, arterial hypotension, and cyanosed face and limbs. He had acute haemolysis (3.9 g/L plasma haemoglobin concentration) and 30% methaemoglobinaemia. Whereas the search for alcohol, barbiturates and opiates was negative, benzodiazepines and tricyclic antidepressants were present. The patient was in fact being treated with fluvoxamine, amitryptiline, and alprazolam. As the clinical and biological signs suggested chlorate poisoning, chlorate was looked for by using an aniline color reaction. It was found in gastric content and urine. Treatment consisted in mechanical ventilation, vasoactive amines, methylene blue, plasma exchange, exchange transfusion, and haemodialysis. Despite this, the patient had several cardiac arrests and refractory metabolic acidosis. He died 12 h after his admission. Specific ion chromatography was used afterhand to assay the chlorate in various body fluids. The technique was based on a separation on an ion exchange Dionex® AS 12A column coupled with conductivity detection. A quantitative estimation was carried out by using external calibration with a four-point calibration curve which was linear between 1 and 15 mg/L. The measured plasma levels of chlorate were 78 and 29 mg/L respectively before and after exchange transfusion. Gastric-lavage liquid contained 1300 mg/L of chlorate and urine 4300 mg/L. Ion chromatography, which is routinely used in environmental studies helped to confirm a massive oral intake of chlorate by measuring the corresponding blood and urine chlorate concentrations, data which had only rarely been reported previously.
Fatal Aspiration of Sardine Fry in a Patient with Lung Cancer
Authors: Inayama Y , Udaka N , Amano T , Watanuki Y , Odagiri S , Kawano N , Nakatani Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report a fatal case of death due to unusual aspiration of sardine fry in an elderly Japanese man with lung cancer. The cause of death was sudden respiratory arrest while eating. Autopsy revealed peculiar materials with cell nests and pigmented particles, together with striated muscle and skin, in the ectatic bronchioles of the left lower lobe. Serial histologic sections suggested that the structures observed were the eyeballs of small animals that appeared to have been inhaled. The patient had habitually eaten sardine fry and rice gruel, which were also detected in the gastric contents. Therefore, the eyes were considered to be those of the fry, which is a popular food item in Japan. This was confirmed by histologic examination of fry that were obtained commercially.
Keyhole Defect Production in Tubular Bone
Authors: Berryman HE , Gunther WM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Fracture characteristics, reported primarily for the cranium, are valuable indicators of bullet direction. A bullet striking the vault tangentially produces an irregular opening, termed a “keyhole defect,” with the circular portion of the defect being the initial point of impact. Identifying this feature in tubular bone (long bone) can also demonstrate bullet direction and the position of the bone at the time of the shooting. This case study involving a tangential shot (i.e., a keyhole fracture) to the humerus demonstrates some of the same fracture mechanics seen in the cranium.
The Use of Microscopic Postmortem Changes in Anagen Hair Roots to Associate Questioned Hairs with Known Hairs and Reconstruct Events in Two Murder Cases
Authors: Tafaro JT 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In two cases investigated by the New Orleans Police Department Crime Lab, hairs recovered from crime scenes were found to exhibit microscopic postmortem changes in anagen hair roots. These microscopic characteristics were used to associate these hairs with various victims in the cases. In addition to associating questioned hairs with known hairs, the fact that the victims were dead when the hairs were pulled helped investigators reconstruct events in both crimes and corroborate statements made by the arrested subjects in each case.
Signature Murders: A Report of the 1984 Cranbrook, British Columbia Cases
Authors: Keppel RD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two females, Denean Worms and Brenda Hughes, were murdered in separate events in Cranbrook, British Columbia in 1984 within three months of each other. Terrence Wayne Burlingham was found guilty of both murders and he appealed. The Supreme Court of Canada granted Burlingham a new trial in the Worms case, but no evidence from Burlingham's confession nor the murder weapon could be used. The Crown counsel requested an evaluation of the two murders to determine if they were committed by the same person. The analyses of those murders revealed that they were linked by a personal “signature” of the killer. The murder cases reported here demonstrate a control-oriented signature. The killer used a .410 shotgun as his method of control and death, engaged in overkill of each victim by shooting them twice in the head, and left the victims in sexually degrading positions. Another signature feature was the absence of typical wounds to the victims which would be expected from a serial sex offender. All of these characteristics, in combination, accounted for this killer's personal expression.
Corrections of: Seward GH. Practical Implications of Charge Transport Model for Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA). J Forensic Sci 1999 Jul;44(4):832-6
Authors: Seward G 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Corrections of: Seward GH. Practical Implications of Charge Transport Model for Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA). J Forensic Sci 1999 Jul;44(4):832-6
Commentary on Wu AHB, Hill DW, Crouch D, Hodnett CN, McCurdy HH. Minimal Standards for the Performance and Interpretation of Toxicology Tests in Legal Proceedings. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(3):516-522
Authors: Baselt RC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Wu AHB, Hill DW, Crouch D, Hodnett CN, McCurdy HH. Minimal Standards for the Performance and Interpretation of Toxicology Tests in Legal Proceedings. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(3):516-522
Commentary on Keto RO. Analysis and Comparison of Bullet Leads by Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(5):1020–6
Authors: Promish DI 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Keto RO. Analysis and Comparison of Bullet Leads by Inductively-Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(5):1020–6
Review of Explosion Aboard the Iowa
Authors: Rimson IJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
On April 19, 1989, northeast of the island of Puerto Rico, 500 pounds of high explosive propellant charge exploded in the open-breech of the center 16″ gun in USS Iowa's turret 11. The resulting blast overpressures, secondary explosions and fires killed 47 crewmen within the turret stmcture. The robustness of the turret assembly, which extended from the main deck to the keel, fortunately withstood the blast and prevented more widespread damage throughout the ship. The explosion was a major embarrassinent for the Navy. Its battleships had been reactivated for service in the Middle East, the third time since their launching late in WWII. They were widely touted as invulnerable to enemy attack. Much to the Navy's chagiin it appeared that self-destruction might be a more realistic alternative.
Review of Footwear Impression Evidence, Second Edition
Authors: McKasson S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The first edition of this text (published by Elsevier in 1990) is probably in every footwear examiner's library, so it is easy to say that the second edition belongs there too. Small improvements were made throughout, although the first edition will no doubt remain a classic reference, a benchmark in its time. Alas, Tempus Fugit, and the new edition is necessary to provide many needed updates to the original text, particularly in the chapter on enhancement of impressions. The new edition's format is a little larger than the first edition, allowing some of the photographs to be enlarged, although the contrast is higher in the original so the improvement is debatable. Three new chapters added at the end of the book represent the major change to the work. The chapter devoted to the evidence in the 0. J. Simpson case is a highlight of course. If you have the first edition and like it, by all means get the second edition.
Detecting Psychoactive Drugs in the Developmental Stages of Mushrooms
Authors: Gross ST 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The following questions regarding the detection of psychoactive drugs in mushrooms are addressed: At what stage of the mushroom development can the psychoactive drugs psilocyn and psilocybin be identified, and what effect does light have on the growth of these mushrooms. To answer these questions, Psilocybe cyanescens Wakefield mushrooms were grown from their spores in a controlled setting. At various times of their development, samples were taken and analyzed for psilocyn and psilocybin. Knowing what stage of development the psychoactive drugs can be identified may be useful to law enforcement personnel and forensic chemists. Methanolic extracts of various samples were analyzed by TLC and by GC/MS. It was determined that the mycelium knot stage of the mushroom was the earliest stage at which the psychoactive drugs could be detected. It was observed that light affected the time of development and the appearance of these mushrooms.
Reagents for the Chemical Development of Latent Fingerprints: Scope and Limitations of Benzo[f]ninhydrin in Comparison to Ninhydrin
Authors: Almog J , Sears VG , Springer E , Hewlett DF , Walker S , Wiesner S , Lidor R , Bahar E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Benzo[f]ninhydrin was compared to ninhydrin for fingerprint development on paper. Overall, the performance of ninhydrin on exhibits was slightly better than that of benzo[f]ninhydrin. The significant advantages of the benzo[f]ninhydrain over ninhydrin were the much stronger fluorescence it gave after treatment with zinc salts and a slightly quicker reaction under ambient conditions. This fluorescence is, however, similar to that obtained with other reagents, such as DFO or ninhydrin analogs. These advantages apparently are not sufficient to justify regular usage of benzo[f]ninhydrin, especially when one considers its low solubility and high cost.
Photoluminescent Semiconductor Nanocrystals for Fingerprint Detection
Authors: Roland Menzel E , Savoy SM , Ulvick SJ , Cheng KH , Murdock RH , Sudduth MR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The concept of utilizing photoluminescent semiconductor nanocrystals for latent fingerprint detection, especially in concert with phase-resolved imaging for background fluorescence suppression, is reduced to practice with CdS nanocrystals that are capped with dioctyl sulfosuccinate. The nanocrystals are dissolved in heptane or hexane and are applied in much the same way as staining with fluorescent dye, on articles that have been pre-fumed with cyanoacrylate ester and also on the sticky side of electrical tape without pre-fuming. Since CdS can form a photoluminescent nanocomposite with dendrimers, a feasibility examination of dendrimer tagging of fingerprints has also been conducted.
A Scanning Beam Time-Resolved Imaging System for Fingerprint Detection
Authors: Roorda RD , Ribes AC , Damaskinos S , (Ted) Dixon AE , Menzel ER 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A highly sensitive confocal scanning-beam system for time-resolved imaging of fingerprints is described. Time-resolved imaging is a relatively new forensic procedure for the detection and imaging of latent fingerprints on fluorescent substrates such as paper, cardboard, and fluorescent paint. Ordinary fluorescent imaging of latent fingerprints on these surfaces results in poor contrast. Instead, the specimens are treated with a phosphorescent dye that preferentially adheres to the fingerprint which allows time-resolved discrimination between the fingerprint phosphorescence and the background fluorescence. Time resolved images are obtained by synchronizing the digital sampling of the specimen luminescence with the on-off cycle of the chopped illumination beam. The merit of this technique is illustrated with high contrast images of fingerprints obtained from the fluorescent painted surface of a Coke™ can.
Clothing Damage Analysis and the Phenomenon of the False Sexual Assault
Authors: Taupin JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper describes three recent false sexual assaults examined at the Victoria Forensic Science Centre laboratory where clothing damage analysis assisted in the resolution of the case. Suspected false reports of sexual assaults are often sensitive cases with little other forensic evidence. Any evidential value that can be obtained is thus valuable in order to minimize any ordeal to the complainant and any suspect and to conserve valuable resources. The findings illustrate the application of clothing damage analysis in a cross section of confirmed false sexual assault reports and the fact that the forensic examiner should be aware of the potential evidential value of this kind of analysis. Furthermore, the corroboration of a victim's scenario when the investigator has doubts may be no less valuable as it may minimize the adversarial ordeal that is often faced by a rape victim.