bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Maine Caucasian Population DNA Database Using Twelve Short Tandem Repeat Loci
Authors: Kupferschmid TD , Calicchio T , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A population study of Caucasians residing in Maine was conducted using the AmpF1STR™ Profiler PCR Amplification Kit and the AmpF1STR™ Profiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit (Applied Biosystems Division (ABD) of Perkin Elmer, Foster City, CA). The kits contain the reagents necessary to amplify 12 different STR loci and the gender marker Amelogenin using two multiplex PCR, each containing nine STR loci. Thus, there is an overlap of six STR loci. The 12 STR loci are TH01, TPOX, CSF1PO, D3S1358, vWA, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, and D7S820. These loci represent 12 of the 13 core loci selected by the CODIS STR standardization project. Dye-labeled amplification products were separated and detected using the capillary electrophoresis instrument ABI Prism™ 310 Genetic Analyzer. Allele frequencies were determined for the 12 STR loci. Statistical analysis of the data included Hardy-Weinburg equilibrium (HWE) analysis, pairwise independence testing, power of discrimination (PD), and probability of exclusion (PE).
Simple and Rapid Color Screening Tests for Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)
Authors: McKibben T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Three new color/screening tests for flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) are reported. The two-step tests are simple, sensitive, highly specific, and effective for both cut and uncut flunitrazepam and standard over-the-counter preparations of flunitrazepam (i.e., Rohypnol tablets.)
Computed Dental Radiography Used to Reproduce Antemortem Film Position
Authors: Hubar JS , Carr RF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Visual comparison of conventional antemortem and postmortem dental radiographs is often included in forensic identification. Ten forensic cases employing dry mandibular and maxillary bones and a dry study skull were exposed using the CDR digital dental X-ray system developed by Schick Technologies, Inc. Exposures of 0.08 s at 10 mA and 70 kVp were taken with an INTREX intraoral dental X-ray unit. Digital radiography has the ability to produce an image instantaneously, allowing an operator to retake an incorrectly aligned radiograph almost immediately. It gives the forensic scientist a simplified method for reproducing antemortem radiographic position more efficiently and often with greater accuracy than conventional radiography.
The Use of Cadaver Dogs in Locating Scattered, Scavenged Human Remains: Preliminary Field Test Results
Authors: Komar D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Specially trained air scent detection canines (Canis familiaris) are commonly used by law enforcement to detect narcotics, explosives or contraband, and by fire investigators to detect the presence of accelerants. Dogs are also used by police, military, and civilian groups to locate lost or missing persons, as well as victims of natural or mass disasters. A further subspecialty is “cadaver” searching, or the use of canines to locate buried or concealed human remains. Recent forensic investigations in central Alberta demonstrated that the use of cadaver dogs could be expanded to include locating partial, scattered human remains dispersed by repeated animal scavenging. Eight dog-and-handler teams participated in a two-month training program using human and animal remains in various stages of decay as scent sources. Ten blind field tests were then conducted which simulated actual search conditions. Recovery rates ranged between 57% and 100%, indicating that properly trained cadaver dogs can make significant contributions in the location and recovery of scattered human remains.
Preparation of Carboxyhemoglobin Standards and Calculation of Spectrophotometric Quantitation Constants
Authors: Canfield DV , Smith M , Ritter RM , Chaturvedi AK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method was developed for the preparation of carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) standards, which were stable for more than four months with the prepared control remaining within acceptable limits during this time. A mathematical equation was developed to more accurately determine the constants A and B used in the equation COHB% = 100[(C − B)/(A − B)]; where B = 0% COHB peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm; A = 100% COHB peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm; and C = the peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm for the blood being analyzed. The following equations were developed to calculate A and B: B = Pavg − (P)[(Pavg − Navg)/(P − N)]; A = B + (Pavg − Navg)/(P − N), Pavg = average peak ratio 540/579 for the positive standard run on the spectrophotometer; P = average decimal concentration measured on the CO-OXIMETER for the positive standard; Navg = average peak ratio 540/579 for the negative standard; N = average decimal concentration measured on the CO-OXIMETER for the negative standard. The new equations provided results consistent with those obtained from a CO-OXIMETER.
Fine Resolution of Pollen Patterns in Limited Space: Differentiating a Crime Scene and Alibi Scene Seven Meters Apart
Authors: Horrocks M , Walsh KAJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In an alleged rape case, the pollen content of soil samples from the suspect's clothing was compared with that of soil samples from the alleged crime scene (an alleyway) and from the alibi scene (next to a driveway) to determine whether or not the suspect had been at the alleged crime scene. Although only 7 m apart, the two scenes had significantly different soil pollen representations due to their different vegetation. Because of this close proximity, however, these differences in pollen representation were in the amounts of the same pollen types rather than in the numbers of different pollen types. The clothing samples showed a very strong correlation with each other and with the sample from the alleged crime scene in the amounts of pollen types present, very strongly supporting the contention that the suspect had been at the alleged crime scene.
Erotomania, Triangulation, and Homicide
Authors: Reid Meloy J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case of homicide by a 29-year-old male with erotomanic delusional disorder and various personality disorders is reported. Following a month of pursuit of a female stranger with whom he had briefly conversed in a local bar, he assaulted an automotive plant where she worked, delusionally believing that she was at imminent risk and needed to be rescued. One plant manager was killed and two police officers were wounded. The case illustrates the phenomenon of triangulation, where rage toward the rejecting object is displaced onto a third party, which is then perceived as impeding access to the victim and may be at risk for violent assault.
Methods for Identification of 28 Burn Victims Following a 1996 Bus Accident in Spain
Authors: Martin-de las Heras S , Valenzuela A , Villanueva E , Marques T , Exposito N , Bohoyo JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A car collided head-on with a bus containing 56 passengers plus the driver. A few seconds after the crash, the bus caught fire and 28 persons (15 male and 13 female) lost their lives. All the deceased were almost completely incinerated. To establish the identity of the victims, the judge in charge of the case designated a multidisciplinary Identification Commission. Postmortem procedures included a general external examination, routine photographs, dental examination, dental (intraoral and extraoral) and general radiographs (chest, ankle, etc.), and complementary biological methods for identification (e.g., DNA analysis). The antemortem information, including dental and medical records available, were transcribed onto the INTERPOL disaster victim identification forms. The detailed ante- and postmortem information were compared manually. In this disaster dental identity could be established in 57% of the victims, whereas dental evidence did not allow by itself the identification of 12 burned victims. Odontological examination and complementary radiographic procedures were found to be accurate, economic and rapid methods of identifying badly burned victims in this bus accident.
Sudden Death in Right Ventricular Dysplasia with Minimal Gross Abnormalities
Authors: Burke AP , Robinson S , Radentz S , Smialek J , Virmani R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is emerging as a relatively common cause of exercise-induced sudden death in the young. The diagnostic criteria at autopsy are, however, not fully established, leading to both over-and underdiagnosis. We report a young man and a young woman dying suddenly of right ventricular dysplasia during exercise, in whom the gross autopsy findings in the right ventricle were minimal or even absent. However, the histologic features in both right and left ventricles were typical of the disease, and consisted of fibrofatty infiltrates with typical myocyte degeneration of the right ventricle and subepicardial regions of the left ventricle. These cases illustrate that microscopic findings are diagnostic and may be present in the absence of gross findings. Marked fat replacement is not essential for the diagnosis of right ventricular dysplasia, and the right ventricle should be extensively sampled histologically in all cases of sudden unexpected death, especially those that are exercise related.
An Unusual Case of Railway Suicide
Authors: Palanco JLR , Lucas JJG , Rojas MAV , Martínez MIA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A rare case of suicide in which the victim had been lying along the railway track in a supine position and with extended extremities is described. The wheels of a train caused longitudinal hemisection with complete evisceration. Epidemiological data on train suicides are given and the relationship between this method of suicide and mental illnesses and consumption of alcohol are discussed.
Another Death Due to Ingestion of Nicotiana glauca
Authors: Sims DN , James R , Christensen T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Deaths attributed to ingestion of Nicotiana glauca are extremely rare. We report here a case where a 43-year-old man was found dead after apparently drinking a water extract of Nicotiana glauca. The primary alkaloid in the plant is anabasine. Toxicological analysis by capillary gas chromatography showed the deceased had a blood anabasine concentration of 2.2 mg/L. Clinically, the features of poisoning are nicotine-like and if death occurs it results from respiratory paralysis. The case further supports the view that, in the human, anabasine is considerably more toxic than nicotine.
Allele and Genotype Frequencies for the STR Locus D18S51 in a Western German Population
Authors: Baasner A , Madea B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Genetic marker typing based on DNA amplification by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) increasingly is being employed in forensic casework and for paternity testing. Allele frequencies were determined using PCR for 102 unrelated Germans (Rhine area) for the locus D18S51. Twelve alleles were observed, with frequencies ranging from 0.005 (allele 11) to 0.191 (allele 14). The observed heterozygosity was 0.867, and the power of discrimination was 0.968. There was no deviation from expectations under Hardy-Weinberg assumptions (P = 0.451).
Commentary on Morgan M, Schramm J, Kofoed P, Steensberg J, and Theilade P. Automobile Exhaust as a Means of Suicide: An Experimental Study with a Proposed Model. J Forensic Sci July;43(4):827–836.
Authors: Contostavlos DL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Morgan M, Schramm J, Kofoed P, Steensberg J, and Theilade P. Automobile Exhaust as a Means of Suicide: An Experimental Study with a Proposed Model. J Forensic Sci July;43(4):827–836.
Commentary on Giles A, Commentary on Gernandt MN, Urlaub JJ, An Introduction to the Gel Pen. J Forensic Sci 1996 May; 41(3):503–4. J Forensic Sci 1997; 42(4):759
Authors: Andermann T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Giles A, Commentary on Gernandt MN, Urlaub JJ, An Introduction to the Gel Pen. J Forensic Sci 1996 May; 41(3):503–4. J Forensic Sci 1997; 42(4):759
Review of Bone Voyage: A Journey in Forensic Anthropology
Authors: Haglund WD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Bone Voyage: A Journey in Forensic Anthropology, is published on the heels of biographical and semi- autobiographical accounts of forensic anthropologists Clyde Collins Snow (I), Douglas Ubelaker (2) and, William Maples (3). It is singularly different from these volumes. With the exception of the 1980 New Mexico Prison Riot, Bon Voyage is not a tale of high profile cases, but the nuts and bolts, cases seen by the majority of forensic anthropologists. In Rhine'B words, cases that “… bristle with instructive examples to be plucked like so many feathers from a chicken.” The volume consists of 10 chapters and numerous photos and is also accompanied by drawings from Rhine's own forensic reports.
Review of Tainting Evidence Inside the Scandals at the FBI Crime Lab
Authors: Wright RK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Science and law approach problems and arrive at solutions in completely different ways. Law arrives at conclusions by taking established principles and applying them to new facts, a deductive process. Science arrives at conclusions by observing facts, creating hypotheses and testing them, an inductive process. Law relies upon precedence and procedure. Science is innovative and iconoclastic.
Review of Neurotraumatology: Biomechanic Aspects Cytologic and Molecular Mechanisms. Research in Legal Medicine, Vol. 17.
Authors: Schmidt V 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In recent years research in the most diverse disciplines has led to major progress in the field of Neurotraumatology. The present volume offers a selection of the latest findings by scientists of several nations, with particular attention to their application to the problems of forensic neuropathology. Each contribution is based on a talk given in 1996 at the VlJth Liibeck Workshop. Both editors are active in the field of forensic medicine, one as a pathologist, the other as a physicist.
The Differentiation of Traumatic and Heat-Related Fractures in Burned Bone
Authors: Herrmann NP , Bennett JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Interpretations of antemortem and perimortem trauma are complicated when dealing with cases involving extreme exposure to fire. This investigation attempts to discern the signatures of perimortem trauma from heat related trauma. Femora of domestic pig, sus scrofa, with minimal soft tissue and articulated patellae were subjected to varying traumatic forces. Skeletal elements were impacted with blunt and sharp forces, cut with varying instruments, subjected to torsional forces or shot.
Bones were burned in various situations in conjunction with Knox County Rural/Metro Fire Department training exercises conducted in Knox County, Tennessee. Following recovery, fragments were subjected to radiographic, macroscopic, and microscopic analyses. Skeletal elements were reconstructed to permit accurate comparison with pre-fire visual records. In addition, fracture surfaces were examined under both transmitted light and scanning electron microscopy in an attempt to discern surface signatures of the causal fracture (trauma, heat, or situational).
Results indicate that signatures of sharp force trauma remain evident following incineration. Furthermore, radiopaque spatter was not observed in any shot specimen. However, these initial findings suggest that the interpretation of blunt force and torsional trauma requires a rigorous examination and comparison of fracture patterns in conjunction with surface morphology.
Separation of Enantiomeric Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine—High Pressure Liquid Chromatography and Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Iwanicki RM , Maier K , Zlotnick JA , Liu RH , Kuo T-L , Tagliaro F 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine (ψ-ephedrine), frequently found in packaged drugs of abuse, are common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Present in high concentrations, these compounds have reportedly caused false identification of methamphetamine in urine specimens. Furthermore, (−)-ephedrine and (+)-ψ-ephedrine are used for manufacturing (+)-methamphetamine. Thus, knowledge on the enantiomeric compositions of these compounds may help identify their sources, providing valuable information to the investigation process. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods were evaluated and compared for their application in analyzing the enantiomeric compositions of these two compounds. A chiral column (Supelcosil LC-(S) Naphthyl Urea) was found effective in resolving the resulting four components when derivatized with both of the following two chiral derivatization reagents: N-trifluoroacetyl-l-prolyl chloride (l-TPC) and 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate (GITC). A C18 column, although less effective, can also adequately resolve these four components for identification purposes. With CE, inclusion of 30 mM hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin in 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 2.5) was very effective in resolving all four components using an uncoated fused silica capillary without prior derivatization.
Preliminary Data on the Usefulness of Internal Transcribed Spacer I (ITS1) Sequence in Cannabis sativa L. Identification
Authors: Siniscalco Gigliano S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method is described to identify an unknown sample of plant material of forensic interest as Cannabis sativa L. The method consists in comparing the sequence of the nuclear ribosomal DNA Internal Transcribed Spacer I (ITS1) of the unknown sample with a Cannabis sequence. Our preliminary results show that the ITS1 is an ideal molecule for the identification of a sample suspected to be marijuana.
Bayesian Validation of a Quadruplex STR Profiling System for Identification Purposes
Authors: Foreman LA , Smith AFM , Evett IW 
Published: August 2015

AbstractA quadruplex system for determining the genetic profile of an individual at four short tandem repeat (STR) loci has recently been introduced into forensic casework by the Forensic Science Service (FSS), primarily for the purposes of forensic identification. Data have been collected under this system from the three racial groups of most relevance in casework in the UK: Caucasian. Afro-Caribbean and Asian (from the Indian subcontinent). These data are utilized in calculations to quantify the evidential strength of a DNA match between suspect and crime scene sample, say, through the evaluation of a likelihood ratio (LR). Previous papers (1,2) have studied the databases via classical statistical methods. However, we focus on a Bayesian approach (3) to validation of the data for LR evaluation in two main cases: when individuals being compared are either (i) completely unrelated, or (ii) members of the same racial group subpopulation. Empirical studies are conducted to establish the robustness of proposed models and obtain efficient and adequate approximations to the LR calculations. This involves the use of statistical simulation methods to determine the suitability of the product rule and Bayesian inference for coancestry coefficients in the absence of subpopulation data.
Time since Discharge of Spent Cartridges
Authors: Andrasko J , Ståhling S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for estimation of the time since discharge of spent cartridges is presented. This method is based on SPME (Solid Phase Microextraction) sampling from the atmosphere inside cartridges. Either naphthalene or an unidentified compound designated as the TEA2-compound were detected in most of the cartridges. These combustion products are the same as those measured in firearm barrels, but in cartridges the detected amounts are lower. The estimation of time since discharge is based on the rate of escape of the volatile combustion compounds from the cartridge as a function of time. Three categories of cartridges were studied separately—shotgun shells, cartridges from sporting rifles, and cartridges from pistols/revolvers. For shotgun shells the decay of the naphthalene peak is measured. At room temperature, naphthalene is detectable in shotgun cartridges for 2–3 weeks after the discharge. In cartridges from sporting rifles, only the TEA2-peak is detectable and observable for about 2 weeks after the discharge. The technique presented failed to detect any combustion product in pistol/revolver cartridges, with the exception of longer cartridges, such as Magnum and in small caliber cartridges (caliber .22) where the TEA2-peak was observed for several days after the discharge. Nitroglycerin (NG) was detectable in cartridges from some manufacturers, but the reproducibility of its detection was rather poor. Moreover the decay of NG was too slow at temperatures below room temperature. The repetitive SPME sampling did not disturb the system. Attempts to prevent the volatile compound from escaping from cartridges was unsuccessful. Some experiments were performed with cartridges stored outdoors, exposed to wind, rain, and snow.
The Forensic Significance of Glass Composition and Refractive Index Measurements
Authors: Koons RD , Buscaglia J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The frequency distributions of refractive index and the concentrations of ten elements in 204 glass specimens received as evidence in casework were evaluated. These data were used to estimate the probability of randomly selecting, from a general population, a glass specimen that is indistinguishable in all measured characteristics from a given glass specimen. The probability of two unrelated glass specimens having indistinguishable elemental compositions and refractive indices is calculated and lies between the extremes of 10−5 and 10−13. For each of the 20,706 pairwise comparisons of the 204 specimens in this study, the two specimens are analytically distinguishable. The use of highly discriminating analytical methods for the comparison of trace evidence and the corresponding low probability of two unrelated glass specimens being indistinguishable eliminates the need to collect extensive databases for the purpose of making exact probability calculations. The approach used here can be applied to other highly discriminating parameters and trace evidence sample types.
Minimal Standards for the Performance and Interpretation of Toxicology Tests in Legal Proceedings
Authors: Wu AHB , Hill DW , Crouch D , Hodnett CN , McCurdy HH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
There have been several high profile criminal and civil cases that have been litigated in recent years involving toxicologic analyses and interpretations of blood, urine, and other specimens for drugs of abuse. Disputes have erupted between prominent toxicologists and laboratory scientists as to the validity and interpretation of the data presented. The disputes centered around the fact that the procedures used in these cases had not been properly validated with analytical noise being misinterpreted as a positive result. As with any analyses, forensic tests must be conducted in a manner such that they meet the minimum standards accepted within the toxicology community. No conclusions as to presence or absence of drug, its concentration, or its physiologic effects can be made if there is a failure to meet these basic standards. Several cases are presented where these standard tenets may not have been followed.