bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Medicolegal Investigators' Suspicions and Positive Toxicology Findings in 100 Drug Deaths
Authors: Ernst MF , Poklis A , Gantner GE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The performance of trained medicolegal investigators was evaluated in 100 consecutive drug deaths, which occurred from January 1978 to May 1980 in St. Louis City and County. Carbon monoxide deaths were excluded from the study. The toxic agent responsible for death, as indicated by scene investigators and the decendent's drug history, was compared to the actual toxicology laboratory findings. In 84 of the cases, the toxicant was correctly indicated by the investigators. In the remaining 16 cases, 12 were suspected to be drug deaths but the major toxicant was not indicated, and in 4 cases no drugs were suspected. The manner of death had no influence on the investigators' performance. This study demonstrates the value of trained medicolegal investigators in providing helpful information to the pathologist and toxicologist before autopsy and laboratory analyses in cases of drug deaths.
Proving Paternity—Human Leukocyte Antigen Test
Authors: Page-Bright B 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe human leukocyte antigen (HLA) blood test is based on antigens (a substance that will stimulate the production of antibodies) found on the white blood cells. Because antigens are produced by genes, any HLA found in a child must be present in either parent. Thus, the HLA system of the blood of the child, mother, and putative father are tested and the probability of paternity is calculated. The HLA polymorphic genetic system is extremely powerful in determining the probability of paternity.
Fatal Halothane Poisoning During Anesthesia with Other Agents
Authors: Randall B , Corbett B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A patient was inadvertently overdosed with halothane during the nitrous oxide phase of anesthesia induction. During the subsequent 2$#00BD;-h resuscitation attempt, the oxygen via the anesthesia machine continued to be contaminated with 5% halothane. Brain death was pronounced when the patient may have been only very deeply anesthetized. The vaporizer had accidentally been left on the full ON position prior to the procedure. Poor design of vaporizer controls.and operator neglect combined to allow protracted patient exposure to the toxic concentration of halothane. The medical examiner has a critical role in the adequate management of anesthesia/surgery related deaths.
A Review of Forensic Toxicology—Controlled Substances and Dangerous Drugs
Authors: Manders WW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This book readily fulfills its primary intent of being a practical, educational resource tool for the practicing forensic chemist. The text consists of the following eight sections: Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms, Classification of Scheduled Substances, Regulation of Controlled Substances, Excluded Substances, Excepted Substances, Drug Isomers and Derivatives, Techniques and Instrumentation for the Analysis of Drugs, and Controlled and Noncontrolled but Commonly Abused Substances. Approximately three fourths of the text is devoted to the last section, in which general structures, synonyms, pharmaceutical preparations, biochemistry, toxicology-pharmacology, and general comments are presented. This type of information is invaluable to a chemist who may have to identify an unknown compound, especially if it is not being used in U.S. pharmaceutical preparations.
Increased Urinary Concentration of Catecholamines in Hypothermia Deaths
Authors: Hirvonen J , Huttunen P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Observations are presented on 24 hypothermia deaths, either accidental or suicidal. Most cases occurred in dry, cold circumstances, the air temperature being below 0° More cases were seen in early winter, suggesting a lack of acclimatization to the cold. Purple skin and swelling of the ears and nose (mild frostbite) were the most frequent external signs of exposure. Frequent internal signs were stomach ulcerations or hemorrhagic gastritis and small degenerative foci in the myocardium. High blood alcohol (about 200 mg/dL) was the most common contributory factor, but psyehotropic drugs were detected in a few cases. The total urinary catecholamine content was increased in the hypothermia deaths, with levels of 0.20 + 0.16 μg/mL (mean + standard deviation) versus 0.07 ± 0.07 pg/mL in sudden natural deaths and 0.02 + 0.02 g/mL in rapid violent deaths. Adrenaline was more abundant than noradrenaline. It is suggested that urine catecholamine measurements can give useful information for the diagnosis of acute hypothermia.
Back Spatter of Blood from Gunshot Wounds—Observations and Experimental Simulation
Authors: Stephens BG , Allen TB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
It is well known that gunshot wounding can produce fine droplets of blood spattered in a forward direction. Under certain circumstances blood droplets can also be propelled backwards in a direction against the line of fire. Although the phenomenon of back spatter of blood is most commonly seen in contact gunshot wounds of the head, its occurrence is not well recognized. In this article we summarize investigative and experimental observations concerning back spatter. We suggest that back spatter is a type of “blow-back” effect produced by discharge of a large volume of gas in a confined space.
A High Performance Liquid Chromatographic (HPLC) Study of Seven Common Explosive Materials
Authors: Lyter AH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) can be used to analyze many types of forensic science evidence. Residue of explosives collected at the scene of an explosion is one of those types of evidence that is suited to HPLC analysis. HPLC will be used to separate nitroglycerine (NG), ethyleneglycoldinitrate (EGDN), cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX), cyclotetramethylenetetranitramine (HMX), pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN), 2, 4, 6,-trinitrotoluene (TNT), and 2, 4, 6,-trinitrophenylmethylnitramine (tetryl). The minimum detectable limits for each of these explosives will be discussed considering variables such as extraction solvent and detector wavelength. Reports of analysis on standard solutions, spiked materials, and actual explosive debris will be included.
Characteristics of Forensic Science Faculty within Criminal Justice Higher Education Programs
Authors: Peterson JL , Angelos SA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In 1980, the Joint Commission on Criminology and Criminal Justice Education and Standards surveyed more than 3600 faculty members from approximately 560 graduate and undergraduate criminal justice and criminology programs in the country. This paper compares the responses of faculty who indicated expertise in the forensic sciences with those of the larger group of criminal justice faculty members. More than 40% of the 61 faculty who specialize in forensic science have backgrounds in law enforcement and are teaching at two-year institutions. Less than 10% of these faculty have crime laboratory work experience. Teaching is clearly the primary activity of these faculty, with a small percentage of their time devoted to research and writing. The forensic science faculty are also notable in that they customarily teach in an adjunct status and do not hold academic appointments that will lead to permanent status with a college or university.
Examinations of Cosmetic Smudges Including Transesterification and Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric Analysis
Authors: Keagy RL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Smeared traces of a cosmetic product may be transferred from a female victim to an assailant during crimes of violence. The procedure followed in the FBI Laboratory to characterize a cosmetic-like smudge is described, including extraction from a substrate, comparison with known specimens, and determination of the major inorganic and organic constituents used in the cosmetic formulation. A derivatization method used to transesterify oils and fatty acids commonly present in cosmetics is explained whereby the fatty substances are converted to methyl esters and subsequently identified by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. This method is applicable to castor oil-based lipsticks as well as cosmetic powders, creams, and lotions that contain oils and fatty acids as main ingredients. Four examples are presented of forensic science evidence recently examined by the scheme of analysis set forth.
An Improved Technique for Preparing Solvent Cast Films from Acrylic Fibers for the Recording of Infrared Spectra
Authors: Garger EF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Synthetic fibers which are microscopically indistinguishable could differ in chemical composition. The use of infrared spectroscopy to determine generic subtypes is standard forensic science practice. An improved technique is described for preparing good solvent cast films suitable for producing acceptable spectra from samples as small as 1 μg.
Optimum Conditions for Examination of Documents Using an Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA) Device to Visualize Indented Writings
Authors: Noblett MG , James EL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study indicated that preconditioning a document in a humidity chamber maintained at 40 to 60% provided the most information from indented writings. It further indicated that aerosol application of the toner provided more information than cascade application. This study also indicated that electrostatic detection apparatus (ESDA) examination for indented writing has no deleterious effect on subsequent latent fingerprint development.
George Armstrong Custer and the Battle of the Little Bighorn: Homicide or Mass Suicide?
Authors: Spencer JD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
On 2S June 1876, Lieutcnant Colonel George Armstrong Custer perished along with 224 men under his immediate command in a battle historically referred to as the Battle of the Little Bighorn. There is some evidence that this was not a battle at all, but a mass suicide. The theory of mass suicide could be substantiated by examination of the skeletal remains.
Field Technique for the Identification of Deer Blood
Authors: Oates DW , Jochum CA , Pearson KA , Hoilien CA 
Published: August 2015

AbstractA latex suspension sensitized with deer antiserum has been prepared, placed on plastic cards, dried, and packaged for field use. The product was tested against bloodstains from 22 species (including Homo sapiens). Strong agglutination reactions occurred only with blood-stains from deer and elk.
Case of the Homemade Duplex (Double-Bullet) Cartridge
Authors: Mittleman RE , Hart RP 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Multibullet cartridges are used to create the salvo effect with increased hit probability and wounding capacity. These cartridges are not new; however, until recently, their usage has been confined to the military. The following report is the first published case concerning homemade duplex (double-bullet) cartridges manufactured in the Greater Miami area. When gunshot wound entrance and exit sites do not add up, multibullet cartridges must be considered.
Application of Experimental Variables to the Use of the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus
Authors: Baier PE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The article discusses the theory of the electrostatic detection process and its application to the investigation of questioned documents. A special device for this purpose was developed and introduced to the market in 1978. An experimental design offers a system to determine the quality of the detection process as a function of different technical and environmental factors. Working hypotheses were tested under empirical conditions and gave satisfying results.
Application of Probability of Paternity Calculations to an Alleged Incestuous Relationship
Authors: Reisner EG , Reading P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An alleged case of incest between half siblings has been examined by standard blood grouping and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) serology. The data were analyzed statistically using single and joint possibilities of paternity. The existence of the alleged relationship between the two parties in question is quite probable.
The Prosecution of Bruno Richard Hauptmann: An Imitation of Falconry
Authors: Starrs JE 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe trial of Bruno Hauptmann is critiqued in terms of the overriding prosecutorial interest in securing the death penalty. The intricate and ingenious methods by which the prosecution blended the law of New Jersey and the common law and the trial testimony of numerous witnesses, both scientific and lay persons, to achieve its objective are explicated. The author mentions other alternatives to those employed as well as the strategies of prosecution and defense at the trial.
High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Immunoassay of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and Its Metabolites in Urine
Authors: Peat MA , Deyman ME , Johnson JR 
Published: August 2015

AbstractHigh performance liquid chromatographic-immunoassay (HPLC-IA) profiles of cannabinoid metabolites in urine samples were obtained using four different antisera. The urines were chromatographed on a reverse phase system using a gradient of acetonitrile in water (pH 3.3) and fractions collected every 30 s. Some urine samples were hydrolyzed with methanolic sodium hydroxide before fractionation. Peaks of immunoreactivity were detected at a fraction corresponding to 11-nor-9-carboxy-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (COOH-THC) and at an early eluting fraction; however, the profiles depended upon the specificity of the antisera used.
Tissue Concentrations at Autopsy in Infants and Children Receiving Therapeutic Digoxin
Authors: Hastreiter AR , van der Horst RL 
Published: August 2015

AbstractTherapeutic tissue concentrations of digoxin have been reported for relatively small numbers of infants and children. In forensic medicine, knowledge of these concentration ranges is important for confirming or excluding digoxin overdosage in different age groups. In addition to age and weight, other factors such as dosage, duration of treatment, route of administration, sampling site, time of last dose, and death-autopsy interval may influence tissue concentrations. In this paper we report on tissue concentrations in 36 infants and children who received therapeutic digoxin before death.
Detection of Thyroglobulin in Bloodstains as an Aid in the Diagnosis of Mechanical Asphyxia
Authors: Katsumata Y , Sato K , Oya M , Yada S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Mechanical forces applied to the neck region are known to release certain amounts of thyroglobulin into circulation. In this experiment, an attempt was made to detect thyroglobulin in bloodstains as an aid in the diagnosis of mechanical asphyxia. Experimental bloodstains containing thyroglobulin at concentrations of 1, 2, 5, and 10 μg/mL were prepared on a sheet of filter paper. Small pieces of bloodstains, measuring approximately 2.4 cm2 in area, were extracted with 0.1 mL of distilled water and the extracts were tested against an antihuman thyroglobulin serum by precipitation-electrophoresis. Bloodstains containing more than 1 μg/mL of thyroglobulin formed distinct precipitin lines for up to one month of storage, while bloodstains containing more than 5 μg/mL of thyroglobulin formed distinct precipitin lines for up to three months of storage. The present results suggest that the bloodstains can be utilized in the diagnosis of mechanical asphyxia.
The Eye as a Chemical Indicator of Environmental Temperature at the Time of Death
Authors: Bray M 
Published: August 2015

AbstractVitreous humor chemistry profiles were reviewed on 133 autopsied cases in which death occurred outdoors during a six-year period, to determine whether environmental temperature at the time of death influenced chemistry values obtained at autopsy. The glucose concentration and total carbon dioxide content varied inversely with temperature. Values were significantly higher in the winter than the summer months. The mean glucose level was higher in deaths caused by cold exposure than in other deaths occurring in the cold, but individual cases could not be distinguished on the basis of chemistry values. Potassium levels tended to be slightly lower in winter. It was noted that chemistry studies could be used to help determine whether a body found outdoors in winter actually died in a different, warmer environment.
The Effect of Chilling, Freezing, and Rewarming on the Postmortem Chemistry of Vitreous Humor
Authors: Bray M 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe effect of chilling at the time of death on the postmortem chemistry of the vitreous humor was studied by using sheep heads obtained immediately following decapitation. One group of heads was kept at room temperature, while the remainder were chilled on ice or in ice water, then refrigerated or frozen. Vitreous humor specimens were taken at intervals over a 48-h period. Chilling inhibited the fall in the glucose concentration and the total carbon dioxide content and lessened the increase in lactic acid, compared to the room temperature group. Rapid glycolysis resumed when the heads rewarmed to room temperature starting at 6-h postmortem, but did not resume at later points. The rate of rise of the potassium and magnesium concentrations was also diminished in the chilled eyes. Freezing and thawing caused an abrupt increase in the potassium and magnesium levels, but other solutes were unaffected.
Microanalysis of Painted Manuscripts and of Colored Archeological Materials by Raman Laser Microprobe
Authors: Guineau B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In the field of historical analysis of works of art, specialists may have at their disposal only tiny fragments or even just traces of an object. In recent years, several microinvestigative techniques (electronic microprobes, photoelectron spectroscopy, ion, and nuclear or Raman laser microprobes) have been perfected. These techniques can afford, henceforth, precious data to experts involved in the analysis of very small fragments of matter. The Raman laser microprobe (RLMP), which can theoretically identify or characterize any chemical substances (inorganic or organic), is thus suited to the examination of many archeological materials. As for the small samples required by RLMP (their size may be as small as a few micrometres), this technique can greatly aid authentification with no major damage to the historic art object being examined. In the few case studies presented here, we show that ancient inorganic pigments have been easily identified by this technique. These preliminary studies describe also the possibility of an analysis in situ, in which no sample taking is necessary. Such a nondestructive microinvestigation is therefore particularly suited to the identification of any precious or fragile materials with pigments. This possibility has been and is being explored successfully in various field such as gemology (for authentification), biology, and criminology.
Effects of Burning on Human Bone Microstructure: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Bradtmiller B , Buikstra JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The microscopic determination of age at death in human bone is a widely used technique in forensic anthropology. Despite its use, little attention has been given to the reliability of microscopic aging when the subject has been burned, either at the time of death, or after death. This preliminary report examines some of the variables of the burning process that may affect the age estimates. Preliminary conclusions arc: (1) bone burned at 600°C retains all of the structures necessary for microscopic aging and (2) bone shrinkage, widely reported in the literature, does not appear to have significant effect on the age estimate. A research plan is outlined that will address some of the questions left unanswerable in the present report.
Antisocial Personality—Diagnosis or Moral Judgment?
Authors: Weinstock R , Nair M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Antisocial personality is a problem-filled diagnosis. Even when diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) II manual, it was replete with value laden terminology. DSM III makes repeated criminal behavior central and includes a list of other behaviors that do not always truly imply an antisocial personality. In order to test the possibility that factors other than those listed in the manual may often influence the diagnosis, the prevalence of required characteristics in patients diagnosed antisocial personality was compared with the prevalence of required characteristics in another personality disorder, schizoid personality. The study involved a hospitalized Veteran's Administration (VA) population, employing DSM II criteria, which was used by the VA at that time. The difference was statistically highly significant. Examination of the case histories suggests that dislike of the patients or negative moral judgments about their actions frequently were involved in making a diagnosis of antisocial personality. It is therefore crucial that moral judgments not be disguised as scientific ones, and the meaning of an antisocial personality diagnosis as utilized by clinicians needs to be seriously questioned.
Stud Guns Revisited: Report of a Suicide and Literature Review
Authors: Weedn VW , Mittleman RE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Stud guns (powder-actuated fastening tools) are a commonly used construction tool. Accidental injuries and fatalities are no longer frequent, presumably because of current safety features and practices. A case of an intentional fatal wound (suicide) is deseribed. A literature review of stud gun injuries is also presented.
Accelerant Identification in Fire Debris by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry Techniques
Authors: Kelly RL , Martz RM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Fire debris suspected of being involved in arson fires or fire bombings is extracted and analyzed for the presence of flammable and combustible liquids by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Pentane extractions of debris or neat liquids are examined by GC/MS and the resulting GC profiles and reconstructed ion chromatograms (RICs) are used to characterize and identify accelerants. This technique, using selected ions to generate profile charts during data processing, enables the differentiation and identification of a variety of petroleum products and solvents used in arson fires.
The Electrophoretic Analysis of the Third Component of Complement (C3) in Dried Bloodstains
Authors: Eberhart S , Kobilinsky L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The polymorphic serum protein C3, which is the third component of the classical complement system, has been analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis and immunofixation. It is sufficiently stable that phenotyping can be performed from dried bloodstains maintained at room temperature for at least two weeks or kept frozen for at least one month. Because its rate of migration differs from that of group specific component (Gc) in Tris-glycine buffer, both genetic markers can be simultaneously phenotyped.
Metropolitan Forensic Anthropology Team (MFAT) Studies in Identification: 1. Race and Sex Assessment by Discriminant Function Analysis of the Postcranial Skeleton
Authors: Taylor JV , DiBennardo R , Linares GH , Goldman AD , DeForest PR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case study is presented to demonstrate the utility of the team approach to the identification of human remains, and to illustrate a methodological innovation developed by MFAT. Case 1 represents the first of several planned case studies, each designed to present new methodological solutions to standard problems in identification. The present case describes a test, by application, of race and sex assessment of the postcranial skeleton by discriminant function analysis.