bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Digital Imaging Methods as an Aid in Dental Identification of Human Remains
Authors: Bowers CM , Johansen RJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The physical comparison of known (K) and questioned (Q) evidence samples is an accepted tool in numerous forensic identification disciplines (1). A subset of this process is the use of antemortem and postmortem dental radiographs to identify unidentified human remains. This method has been generally accepted for decades (2). The outcome is performed with a considerable degree of accuracy, due in part to a finite pool of possible candidates for identification derived via the NCIC database, passenger lists, and law enforcement Missing Persons reports. This paper describes a dental identification comparison protocol that incorporated digital imaging technology in this process. The computer was used to create digital exemplars of the K and Q evidence that were spatially and quantitatively compared (3).
The digital mode allowed direct metric and morphologic comparison through the aid of a digital camera, desktop computer, monitor, and printer. The well-known computer program Adobe® Photoshop ® 5.0 (4) was used to process the digital information in two forensic cases described in this paper. It is a commercially available digital imaging editing program that is operated on laptop and desktop computers possessing sufficient chip speed and RAM (Pentium II or equivalent and at least 76MB RAM) to open the large-size files generated by high-resolution digital capture devices.
This program accepts raster-based image formats (e.g. .JPG, .BMP). Photoshop® is noted for its diverse imaging functions, which allow the computer monitor to be used as a comparison microscope when Q and K sample images are tiled side-by-side and/or superimposed. Two and three-dimensional Q and K evidence samples can be individually digitized and then independently resized to allow two-dimensional comparison. The investigator also has the ability to create magnified images (200% to 300%) when the original digital image has been captured at near photoquality resolution (300 dpi). The visual comparison of physical features on the computer monitor permits a large field of view and robust digital control over image quality. Photographic measurement and enhancement features of Adobe® Photoshop® mimics and in some circumstances surpasses the historic use of conventional photographic manipulation in forensic casework.
This paper presents two cases processed via routine forensic odontology identification protocols. These protocols had minimal results due to limitations described in the case histories. The additional application of digital methods proved useful in the ultimate identification of these human remains.
Concentrations of Unconjugated Morphine, Codeine and 6-Acetylmorphine in Urine Specimens from Suspected Drugged Drivers
Authors: Ceder G , Jones AW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Concentrations of unconjugated morphine, codeine and 6-acetylmorphine (6-AM), the specific metabolite of heroin, were determined in urine specimens from 339 individuals apprehended for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Sweden. After an initial screening analysis by immunoassay for 5-classes of abused drugs (opiates, cannabinoids, amphetamine analogs, cocaine metabolite and benzodiazepines), all positive specimens were verified by more specific methods. Opiates and other illicit drugs were analyzed by isotope-dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The limits of quantitation for morphine, codeine and 6-AM in urine were 20 ng/mL. Calibration plots included an upper concentration limit of 1000 ng/mL for each opiate. We identified the heroin metabolite 6-AM in 212 urine specimens (62%) at concentrations ranging from 20 ng/mL to ≻ 1000 ng/mL. The concentration of 6-AM exceeded 1000 ng/mL in 79 cases (37%) and 31 cases (15%) were between 20 and 99 ng/mL. When 6-AM was present in urine the concentration of morphine was above 1000 ng/mL in 196 cases (92%). The concentrations of codeine in these same urine specimens were more evenly distributed with 35% being above 1000 ng/mL and 21% below 100 ng/mL. These results give a clear picture of the concentrations of unconjugated morphine, codeine and 6-acetylmorphine that can be expected in opiate-positive urine specimens from individuals apprehended for DUID after taking heroin.
An Unusual Oxidation Type on Bulb Filament after a Car Crash Dive
Authors: Baudoin P , Lavabre R , Vayne F 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A car with two dead bodies trapped inside was discovered in a gravel pit. The main hypothesis of investigators was a traffic accident simulation by night. Examination of a broken lightbulb revealed both a rather unusual oxidation type and small rounded cavities never reported before. Tests were performed and allowed forensic scientists to establish that the lightbulbs were switched on during the crash dive, in contrast with the investigators idea.
Nutrient Canals of the Alveolar Process as an Anatomic Feature for Dental Identifications
Authors: Fielding CG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Nutrient canals are anatomic structures of the alveolar bone through which neurovascular elements transit to supply teeth and supporting structures. A dental identification using a nutrient canal of the mandibular alveolar process as the most compelling anatomic feature for antemortem-postmortem radiographic comparison is described. Nutrient canals as a potential marker for clinical disease is also discussed.
The Spectrum of Intramyocardial Small Vessel Disease Associated with Sudden Death
Authors: Veinot JP , Johnston B , Acharya V , Healey J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Intramyocardial small vessel abnormalities are not commonly recognized. The best known abnormality is fibromuscular dysplasia involving the sinoatrial or atrioventricular nodal arteries. Small vessel disease has been reported as an isolated cardiac anomaly in individuals with sudden death, and may also be associated with other cardiac conditions including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and mitral valve prolapse. The nature of the association is unknown, and the mechanism causing sudden death is sometimes obscure. We describe pathological changes of the intramyocardial small vessels of three individuals with sudden death. Abnormalities involved small vessels at different levels. In all the cases, the abnormalities were thought to have caused or contributed to the individual's death. The possible mechanisms of this are discussed.
Cervical Fracture, Decapitation, and Vehicle-assisted Suicide
Authors: Byard RW , Gilbert JD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two cases of vehicle-assisted suicides are described in males aged 33 and 24 years, respectively. In both cases the victims had tied ropes between stationary objects and their necks and then attempted to drive their vehicles away. The speed with which the vehicles were driven resulted in forces great enough to cause fracture-dislocation of the cervical spine in Case 1 and virtual decapitation in Case 2. Although inadvertent alteration of the death scene in Case 1, with removal of the rope, complicated the initial assessment, the extent of soft tissue and bony injuries was such that ligature strangulation appeared unlikely.
Spousal Homicide and the Subsequent Staging of a Sexual Homicide at a Distant Location
Authors: Meloy JR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The case of a 63-year-old man who killed his 52-year-old wife and then staged a sexual homicide at a distant location is reported. A review of all evidence, a forensic psychological interview, and psychological testing indicated that the murder was the result of a narcissistic rage reaction during which the subject beat his wife to death with a paint can, a clothing iron, and a rock. He then drove her body to a field 87.3 miles away, and positioned it in a manner that exposed her breasts and her underwear. He turned himself into the police two days later. There is no controlled empirical research on staging, although this single case supports the criminal investigative theory that staging exists, and is done to deliberately mislead homicide investigations (Douglas et al., 1992).
Postmortem Blood and Vitreous Humor Ethanol Concentrations in a Victim of a Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash
Authors: Hardin GG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 20-year-old male was found on the passenger side of a small car after a collision with a semi-trailer truck. Postmortem blood, collected from the chest cavity, and vitreous humor samples were collected following harvesting of the heart and bones. Gas chromatographic analysis revealed a blood ethanol concentration of 0.32 g/dL and a vitreous humor ethanol concentration of 0.09 g/dL. The stomach was intact and full of fluid and food, but its contents were not collected. Possible explanations for the large difference between the two results include diffusion of ethanol from the stomach into the chest cavity, contamination of the blood sample prior to collection, and ingestion of a large quantity of ethanol shortly before death. This case demonstrates the importance of proper quality assurance procedures in collecting postmortem specimens and of collecting a vitreous humor sample for ethanol analysis in postmortem toxicology cases.
Han Chinese Population Data for Ten STR Loci in Changsha, China
Authors: Ma Y , Gong B , Xia J , Deng H , Pan Q , Li Q , Dai H , Wen S , Xia K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Whole blood obtained by venipucture was collected in EDTA vacutainer tubes from unrelated individuals residing in Changsha, China. The DNA was extracted by phenol chloroform method (1). PCR amplification was performed using the AmpFlSTR Profiler Plus™ PCR amplification kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) following the manufacturer's protocol (2). The amplified products were separated and detected using the ABI Prism™ 377 DNA sequencer (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). The data were analyzed using The Promega Software, POWERSTATS.
Allele Frequencies for the AmpFlSTR Profiler Loci in a Colombian Population (Department of Boyaca)
Authors: Vargas CI , Castillo A , Gil AM , Pico AL , Garcia O 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Whole blood samples were obtained in the genetics laboratory of the UIS (Universidad Industrial of Santander) and Boyaca Regional ICBF (Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar) from 183 unrelated Colombian donors (Department of Boyaca). Genomic DNA was extracted using the salting out procedure. PCR amplification was performed using the AmpFlSTR Profiler amplification kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) following manufacturer's instructions. The amplified products were separated and detected using the ABI 310 DNA sequencer (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Alleles were classified according to the recommendations of the ISFH (1). Statistical analysis was performed as previously reported (2). The complete data set is available to any interested researcher upon request from the corresponding author, Oscar Garcia, Ph.D.
Allele Frequencies for Eight STR Loci in a Population Sample from Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Asmundo A , Sapienza D , Crino C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples from healthy and unrelated individuals (n=135–150) were extracted by Chelex 100 procedure (1). DNA samples (5–25 ng) were amplified in a “PCR sprint” (Hybaid) thermal cycler and typed-classified according to the DNA commission of the ISFH (2). Allele and genotype frequencies were determined and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was tested by aX2 method. From the genotype data, the power of discrimination (PD) according to the equation suggested by Fisher (3) was calculated. The heterozigosity value (OH) as described by Nei and Roychoudhury (4) was determined.
Allele Frequency Distribution at Five Y-Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat Loci Among Five Distinct Ethnic Groups of India
Authors: Das B , Chauhan PS , Seshadri M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Genomic DNA was extracted using a rapid non-enzymatic method (1). The PCR primers and the parameters for PCR amplification of all the five Y-chromosomal STRs were as described by Kayser et al. (2) and de Knijff et al. (3). The forward primer of each locus was labeled with flourescent CY5™ dye amidite (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech) and PCR was carried out in a Hybaid™ thermal cycler using Taq polymerase (Roche Molecular Biochemicals). Amplimers were electrophoresed in 6% denaturing urea gel (7M) and analyzed by fragment manager using ALF Express DNA Sequencer (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech). Internal ladders were used for the accurate size determination. Allelic ladders were prepared for each locus and used as external standards in addition to CY5™ labelled 50 to 500 bp DNA ladder (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech). At each locus, the amplimers were compared with the standards, kindly supplied by Dr. Chris Tyler-Smith from Oxford University, Oxford, UK, for confirmation.
STR Data for the PowerPlex® 16 Loci in Buenos Aires Population (Argentina)
Authors: Gangitano DA , Gariofalo MG , Juvenal GJ , Budowle B , Lorente JA , Padula RA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
DNA samples from 101 unrelated individuals were extracted by Chelex procedure (1) and then quantified using QuantiBlot® Human DNA Quantitation Kit according to the manufacturer's instructions (2). DNA samples (1 ng) were amplified and typed by PowerPlex® 16 System (3). The electrophoresis was carried out on the ABI PRISM® 377 DNA Sequencer using GeneScan® Genotyper® and PowerTyper™ 16 Macro software. Data were analyzed using a program provided by R. Chakraborty (University of Texas School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas). Interclass correlations yielding p &lt; 0.05 for pairwise comparisons: TH01/D7S820, TH01/D8S1179, D18S51/D5S818, D18S51/D7S820, PentaE/PentaD, and D5S818/D16S539.
Y-Chromosome STR Haplotypes in Central-West African Immigrant in Spain Population Sample
Authors: Gamero J-J , Romero J-L , Gonzalez J-L , Carvalho M , Anjos M-J , Real FC , Vieira D-N , Vide M-C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were obtained from 103 healthy unrelated black West African immigrant population in Spain from different countries situated to the south of the Sahara desert. The DNA was extracted using Chelex 100 protocol as described by Walsh et al. (1). The quantity of recovered DNA was determined using QuantiBlot® Human DNA Quantitation Kit (Perkin Elmer). DYS19, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, and DYS393 were amplified as described by Gusmao et al. (2). The DYS385 amplification conditions complied with the methodology described by Schneider et al. (3). The PCR was performed in a Perkin Elmer 9600 thermocycler.
Characterization and Validation Studies of Powerplex™ 2.1, A Nine-locus Short Tandem Repeat (Str) Multiplex System and Penta D Monoplex
Authors: Levedakou EN , Freeman DA , Budzynski MJ , Early BE , Damaso RC , Pollard AM , Townley AJ , Gombos JL , Lewis JL , Kist FG , Hockensmith ME , Terwilliger ML , Amiott E , McElfresh KC , Schumm JW , Ulery SR , Konotop F , Sessa TL , Sailus JS , Crouse CA , Tomsey CS , Ban JD , Nelson MS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In order to increase the power of discrimination for human identification purposes, a nine-locus short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex, the GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 2.1 system (PowerPlex™ 2.1) developed by Promega Corporation and a separate pentanucleotide-repeat locus, Penta D, were tested. This megaplex system includes the highly polymorphic loci FGA, TPOX, D8S1179, vWA, Penta E, D18S51, D21S11, TH01, and D3S1358 and may be used in combination with the eight-locus STR multiplex, the GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 1.1 system (PowerPlex™ 1.1) that has been previously developed. Three of the loci, TPOX, TH01 and vWA, have been included in both systems for quality control purposes. As with PowerPlex™ 1.1, PowerPlex™ 2.1 is also based on a two-color detection of fluorescent-labeled DNA products amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and provides a valuable tool for accurate and rapid allele determination. The primer sequences used in the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system are also presented in this report. To meet the “Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories” (FBI), we tested the efficiency and reproducibility of the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system by several validation studies that were conducted as a joint project among seven laboratories. Validation tests included concordance studies, sensitivity, and species specificity determination, as well as performance in forensic and environmentally impacted samples. The results produced from these tests demonstrated the consistency and reliability of the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system.
Recovery of Genomic Dna from Archived PCR Product Mixes for Subsequent Multiplex Amplification and Typing of Additional Loci: Forensic Significance for Older Unsolved Criminal Cases
Authors: Patchett KL , Cox KJ , Burns DM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for genomic DNA recovery from different types of PCR product mixes suitable for multiplex amplification and typing using the Profiler Plus™ STR typing system has been investigated. The application of this method is of significance in cases where the original DNA samples have been exhausted due to repeated typing analyses in an effort to maximize their evidentiary value. Such cases typically involve samples analyzed using the available DNA typing systems of the time which gave a markedly lower power of discrimination, either alone or in combination, compared to that of modern multiplex STR typing systems. It was found that an effective method for recovering genomic DNA from HLADQA1 _PM and CTT triplex amplification mixes, suitable for reproducible achievement of the complete Profiler Plus™ profile, involved the use of Amicon Microcon-100 microconcentrators. Interestingly, this method was not required to achieve the complete nine STR profile using D1S80 amplification mixes.
Validation of a 16-Locus Fluorescent Multiplex System
Authors: Krenke BE , Tereba A , Anderson SJ , Buel E , Culhane S , Finis CJ , Tomsey CS , Zachetti JM , Masibay A , Rabbach DR , Amiott EA , Sprecher CJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
STR multiplexes have been indispensable for the efficient genotyping of forensic samples. The PowerPlex® 16 System contains the core CODIS loci, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D21S11, CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, vWA, the sex determinant locus, amelogenin, and two pentanucleotide STR loci, Penta D and Penta E. This multiplex satisfies the locus requirements for most national databases and is the most efficient currently available system due to its single PCR amplification. To provide the groundwork for judicial acceptance, including the publication of primer sequences, and to evaluate laboratory-to-laboratory variation, a developmental validation for casework on this commercially available system was performed in 24 laboratories and produced the following conclusions. Amplification was reliable on a variety of thermal cyclers and product could be analyzed on either an ABI PRISM® 310 Genetic Analyzer or an ABI PRISM® 377 DNA Sequencer. Genotyping using single source samples was consistent between 0.25 and 2 ng of input DNA template with a few laboratories obtaining complete genotypes at 0.0625 ng. However, heterozygote allele imbalance (_60% peak height balance) caused by stochastic effects was observed at a rate of 13% with 0.125 ng DNA and 22% at 0.0625 ng DNA. Mixture analyses were done using a total of 1 ng of DNA template. Most alleles were detected in mixtures of 4 to 1 and some minor alleles were detected in mixtures of 19 to 1. Optimum amplification cycle number was dependent on the sensitivity of the detection instrument used and could also be adjusted to accommodate larger amounts of DNA on solid supports such as FTA® paper. Reaction conditions including volume, annealing temperature, and concentrations of primer, AmpliTaq Gold®, and magnesium were shown to be optimal yet robust enough to withstand moderate variations without affecting genotype analysis. Environmental, matrix and standard source analyses revealed an ability to obtain complete genotypes in all sample types except those exposed to 80°C for 12–48 days. Finally, comparison of genotype results from the PowerPlex® 16 System with other commercially available systems on non-probative reference and forensic samples showed consistent results.
Detection of Petrol (Gasoline) in Fire Debris by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS/MS)
Authors: de Vos B-J , Froneman M , Rohwer E , Sutherland DA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is a well-known instrumental technique used for the analysis of fire debris for accelerant detection. However, matrix problems, such as pyrolysis product interference, are still encountered. These interferences often lead to inconclusive interpretation of the chromatographic results obtained.
This paper describes a method of analyzing arson accelerants using gas chromatography coupled with ion trap mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). Petrol was investigated as an accelerant. Analysis incorporated an ion preparation method (IPM) that manipulates the ion population in the ion trap following ionization but prior to ion analysis. Parent ions of selected mass-to-charge (m/z) values, characteristic for petrol, are stored within the ion trap. All other unwanted ions are physically removed from the trap by sophisticated electrostatic waveforms. The parent ions fill the trap and are then fragmented by means of collision-induced dissociation (CID). The resultant daughter ion spectra are obtained, which can be used for identification purposes. In this manner, ions of pyrolysis origin are removed.
Individuality of Handwriting
Authors: Srihari SN , Cha SH , Arora H , Lee S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Motivated by several rulings in United States courts concerning expert testimony in general, and handwriting testimony in particular, we undertook a study to objectively validate the hypothesis that handwriting is individual. Handwriting samples of 1500 individuals, representative of the U.S. population with respect to gender, age, ethnic groups, etc., were obtained. Analyzing differences in handwriting was done by using computer algorithms for extracting features from scanned images of handwriting. Attributes characteristic of the handwriting were obtained, e.g., line separation, slant, character shapes, etc. These attributes, which are a subset of attributes used by forensic document examiners (FDEs), were used to quantitatively establish individuality by using machine learning approaches. Using global attributes of handwriting and very few characters in the writing, the ability to determine the writer with a high degree of confidence was established. The work is a step towards providing scientific support for admitting handwriting evidence in court. The mathematical approach and the resulting software also have the promise of aiding the FDE.