bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating Actual Height in the Older Individual
Authors: Galloway A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The widely used formulas for estimating adult stature require modification of the estimated height to account for the effects of age. The recording of measured and reported height in a living older population from southern Arizona, in conjunction with bone mineralization monitoring, provides an opportunity to test the currently used correction factor. Loss of height appears to commence around the age of 45, and the average rate of loss is relatively rapid at 0.16 cm per year. The correction factor suggested by this study is 0.16(age — 4S), subtracted from the maximum height. The loss is also affected by the maximum height of the individual. In cases of low bone mineralization, the increased incidence of vertebral crush fractures may cause further reductions in standing height. The low rate of recognition of height changes among the older community lowers the usefulness of the age adjusted height estimate. It is recommended that both the maximum and age adjusted heights be provided in forensic science reports to aid in matching with missing person reports.
Failure of Use of Cemental Annulations in Teeth to Determine the Age of Humans
Authors: Miller CS , Dove SB , Cottone JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The reliability of cemental annulation counts in teeth was examined to determine its value as an age indicator for humans. One hundred extracted human teeth were embedded in polyester casting resin and sectioned using a diamond wafering saw. Thin sections were photomicrographed, projected, and counted in a double blind random method of presentation. The age of the specimen was determined by adding the number of cemental annulations counted by the observers and the eruption age of the specific tooth that was used. The data analyzed by simple regression indicated that determining chronologic age in humans from cemental annulations is not possible.
Microfilm Documents: What Are the Boundaries in Document Examination?
Authors: Hanna GA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Businesses are increasingly converting document transporting and storage systems to microfilming systems that ultimately destroy the original document. Consequently, microfilmed documents are being submitted for examination either as questioned or known material. In an effort to aid the examiner in determining the boundaries of handwriting examinations of microfilmed documents, the quality of the microfilmed copies were compared to the original documents. Handwriting characteristics, pen classifiation, simulations, and alterations are discussed.
A Novel Technique for the Collection and Recovery of Foreign Fibers in Forensic Science Casework
Authors: Choudhry MY 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In criminal investigations, especially in rape, sodomy, and murder cases, forensic scientists are frequently asked to establish a possible transfer of fiber evidence. In such cases, the initial task is to recover the minute fragments of transferred fibers from the surfaces of the textile articles involved in an incident. An ideal method should be simple, rapid, efficient, and reliable. A novel technique satisfying all of the above criteria is described which involves the use of an adhesive bed for the collection and recovery of fibers, and laser illumination/stereo light microscopy for search and localization of possible matching fibers. The adhesive bed consists of a clear polyester film (100 by 130 mm) preprinted with a grid and label. The grid area (100 by 100 mm) was covered with Double Coated® adhesive tape. The bed is stored in a document protector. The advantages of this new technique over existing methods include rapid collection of evidence material from large surfaces, convenient handling and storage of samples, and rapid recovery of suspect fibers. This technique is time-saving and practical in routine cases and meets the needs of overburdened crime laboratories.
Detection of Hemagglutinins in Dried Saliva Stains and Their Potential Use in Blood Typing
Authors: Harrington JJ , Martin R , Kobilinsky L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Since 1928, hemagglutinins have been known to exist in saliva; however, they have not been utilized as evidence in criminal investigations because in the past, techniques for measuring them have not been sufficiently sensitive. In this paper we describe improved techniques for detecting salivary hemagglutinins and report initial results obtained with these methods. The stability of salivary hemagglutinins at several different temperatures was examined in liquid samples and in dried stains on filter paper, cigarette butts, and envelope flaps. Our observations indicate that salivary hemagglutinins may be sufficiently stable, over periods of one to several days at ambient room temperatures, to be of value to forensic science investigators. The results of the hemagglutinin assay are not affected by the age or sex of the sample donor. Because salivary hemagglutinins can be used to determine ABO blood type, analyses of this kind can serve as an important confirmatory test which the forensic serologist can use in conjunction with salivary agglutinogen determinations.
Sexing North American Eskimo and Indian Innominate Bones with the Acetabulum/Pubis Index
Authors: Schulter-Ellis FP , Hayek L-AC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The acetabulum/pubis index was tested on American Eskimo and Indian samples of innominate bones to which sex had been assigned by visual inspection. The index alone sexed 91 and 89% of the Eskimo and Indian samples, respectively. Subsequent sorting of misclassified specimens with femur head diameter resulted in 96 and 99% rates of classification. The index and a measurement of ischial height were used in a discriminant function model which correctly identified the sex of 93% of the Eskimo and 92% of the Indian bones. Using femur head diameter to sort those specimens which were misclassified by their discriminant function score yielded classification rates of 96 and 98%. These results are compared to a range of 92 to 100% obtained with the index in earlier studies of American black and white pelvic bone samples.
Individuality of Human Palatal Rugae
Authors: English WR , Robison SF , Summitt JB , Oesterle LJ , Brannon RB , Morlang WM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Investigators have implied that palatal rugae are unique to each individual. However, these researchers have disagreed as to whether or not legal identification could be based solely on palatal rugae. Previous studies used poor duplicating materials and may not have considered the effects of growth, extractions, palatal expansion, or some combination of these. The inadvertent use of other features of the cast, such as teeth, edentulous ridge morphology, muscle attachments, vestibular depth, or some combination of these, to aid in the identification, may have influenced their results. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if palatal rugae can be relied upon for identification.
Twenty-five orthodontic cases were selected with pre- and post-treatment casts: orthodontic treatment had taken eighteen to sixty months. One hundred casts were randomly selected as variables. All casts were trimmed so that all areas except for the rugae area of the hard palate were removed. The twenty-five post-orthodontic casts were dispersed within 100 randomly selected casts. Nine investigators were given the twenty-five pre-orthodontic casts and asked to compare them to the other one hundred and twenty-five casts for possible matches. Data were collected as to percentage of correct matches and time required for comparison.
Each set of pre- and post-orthodontic casts was properly identified (100%) by 8 investigators, and the remaining investigator correctly matched 22 out of 25 casts (88%).
These conclusions were drawn. The team approach significantly reduced the time required to make correct matches; it appears that the palatal rugae pattern is sufficiently characteristic to discriminate between individuals; and this study supports the hypothesis that palatal rugae are unique and identification could be based upon their comparison.
The III-Fated Passenger Steamer Sultana: An Inland Maritime Mass Disaster of Unparalleled Magnitude
Authors: Berryman HE , Potter JO , Oliver S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
On the night of 27 April 1865, the Sultana left Memphis for points north on the flood-swollen Mississippi River. An estimated 2347 individuals were on board this luxury passenger steamer—a boat designed to accommodate only 76 cabin passengers and 300 deck passengers.
At a point seven miles (11 km) north of Memphis near a group of islands known as Paddy's Hen and Chickens, 3 of the boat's 4 boilers exploded. The explosion, fire, and river claimed approximately 1547 lives, exceeding the death toll of the Titanic.
Why were so many passengers on board the Sultana? Why did the boilers explode? What were the stories of the survivors? And how does this tragedy compare with the Titanic disaster?
These questions are addressed along with other aspects of the tragedy. In addition, recent attempts by the authors to discover the exact location of the wreck are discussed.
A Review of A Field Guide for Human Skeletal Identification
Authors: Hinkes MJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The title of this book exactly describes its contents. Bennett has assembled a collection of 55 tables in 4 areas of skeletal identification, with the intention of providing “easy access to numerical information while in the field.” It is an unfortunate fact of forensic science life that our examinations often take place under suboptimal conditions: out of doors, in poorly equipped facilities, under time constraints, away from labs and reference materials. This manual should make examinations easier under these circumstances.
The Detection of Gunshot Residue (GSR) Particles on the Bottom of Discharged Bullets
Authors: Bergman P , Enzel P , Springer E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The well-established method of gunshot residue (GSR) particle detection using scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive spectrometry (SEM/EDS) is generally employed in both the examination of the suspect and the target area. In the present work, it was demonstrated that GSR particles can be consistently found on the bottoms of discharged bullets, including those severely deformed on impact or having undergone other severe conditions. In addition, a proposed mechanism for this finding was investigated. Because this phenomenon is found useful in several types of cases, it should be well remembered by criminalistic related examiners that the bottoms of discharged bullets contain valuable information not to be overlooked.
5-Methoxyninhydrin: A Reagent for the Chemical Development of Latent Fingerprints That Is Compatible with the Copper-Vapor Laser
Authors: Almog J , Hirshfeld A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
5-Methoxy-2,2-dihydroxy-1,3 indanedione (5-methoxyninhydrin), a relatively simple analogue of ninhydrin, exhibits excellent properties as a developer of latent fingerprints on paper. While visible development closely resembles that achieved with ninhydrin, fluorescence after zinc chloride treatment is considerably stronger than that of ninhydrin developed prints, particularly when excited by the green line of the copper-vapor laser.
Teaching Ethics in a Forensic Science Curriculum
Authors: Peterson JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Higher education programs in forensic science seldom devote attention to issues of professional ethics in their curricula. This paper describes the results of a pilot study inquiring into the attitudes of undergraduate students before and after exposure to forensic science ethical standards and problems. Recommendations are offered concerning those terms and concepts with which students should be familiar and the skills they need to acquire.
Two-Dimensional Absorption-Inhibition
Authors: Lee HC , Gaensslen RE , Pagliaro EM , Novitch B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A novel inhibition procedure, called two-dimensional absorption-inhibition, is described. The theory underlying this technique is developed based on a review of and comparison with existing inhibition methods. Two-dimensional inhibition takes advantage of the best features of inhibition-titration and titration-inhibition, and is shown to be more sensitive than either of them. Results obtained using all the inhibition methods on secretor saliva, semen, urine, urine stain, and perspiration stain specimens show that the new technique is especially powerful in correctly determining the ABH antigens in secretor body fluids having lower concentrations of soluble blood group antigens. A two-stage version of the two-dimensional procedure that makes it a practical casework method is described as well.
Cocaine and Homicide in Memphis and Shelby County: An Epidemic of Violence
Authors: Harruff RC , Francisco JT , Elkins SK , Maury Phillips A , Scott Fernandez G 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In Memphis and the surrounding county, there were a record number of homicides (179) in 1986. During the same year, there was a marked increase in medical examiner cases where tests were positive for cocaine or its metabolites. Review of medical examiner and toxicology records from 1980 to 1986 found 87 cocaine related deaths; 46 of these were homicides. In 1986 alone, there were 53 cocaine related deaths, all manners, and 31 cocaine related homicides. In this year, 17.3% of the homicides were positive for cocaine or metabolite. The cocaine related homicides were similar to other homicides in terms of age, race, sex, blood ethanol concentration, and cause of death being due most often to firearms. In homicide cases in which an abuse drug was detected, cocaine accounted for the entire increase in 1986. Police records indicated that cocaine directly contributed to the homicide in 39% of the cases in which the drug was found. In other cases, we speculate that cocaine altered behavior may have contributed to the victim's being murdered either during the drug “high” or during the posteuphoric depression or withdrawal phase.
An Assessment of the Value of Blue, Red, and Black Cotton Fibers as Target Fibers in Forensic Science Investigations
Authors: Grieve MC , Dunlop J , Haddock P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Color is the primary characteristic used for comparing cotton fibers. Problems arising because of considerable intrasample variation may cause difficulty in assessing the matching of cotton fibers in a casework situation. Because of the number of dye classes used on cotton fibers, dye extraction and examination by thin-layer chromatography are more problematical than with other fiber types. This necessitates greater reliance on microspectrophotometry and fluorescence microscopy for dye comparison. Fibers from blue denim cannot generally be discriminated and are regarded as having little evidential value. Little or no published data exist on the evidential value of cotton fibers of other colors. This study was designed to assess the value of nondenim blue, red, and black cotton fibers as evidence. Of each color 46 samples were chosen at random (giving a total of 1035 comparisons per color). The number of matching pairs was established after using comparison microscopy, microspectrophotometry, and fluorescence microscopy. Some blue denim cotton fibers were also examined. Complementary chromaticity coordinates were computed for all samples. The results show that, provided adequate techniques are used to compare nondenim blue, red, and black cotton fibers, the chance of finding pairs with matching dyes by coincidence is low despite considerable color overlap. Black cotton fibers represent poorer value as evidence than either nondenim blue or red cotton fibers.
Development of a Radioimmunoassay Technique for the Detection of Human Hemoglobin in Dried Bloodstains
Authors: Quarino L , Kobilinsky L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A sensitive radioimmunoassay for the detection of human hemoglobin in dried bloodstains for the purpose of forensic science species identification has been developed. Bloodstains from 13 animal species were tested and found to be negative for human blood. A minimum volume of 0.8 μL of fresh blood is required to produce sufficient stain for successful testing. Bloodstains prepared from newborn and sickle-cell bloods were determined to be human. Bloodstains ranging in age from 1 month to 6 years which had been maintained desiccated at 20 to 25°C were also successfully tested. Positive results were obtained on human bloodstains stored at 24°C with relative humidity ranging from 0 to 98% for a period of 3 weeks. Absolute counts per minute (CPM) decreased with increased humidity. Human bloodstains exposed to bacterial contamination (gram positive or negative species) under humid conditions for 2 weeks also tested positive. Bacterial contamination caused a decrease in CPM, but insufficient to result in an erroneous conclusion as to species of origin. Positive results were also obtained on human bloodstains stored for 6 weeks at various temperatures ranging from − 16 to 37°C. No significant decreases in CPM were noted for any of the temperature conditions described.
Chromatographic and Spectroscopic Profiles of Cannabis of Different Origins: Part I
Authors: Brenneisen R , ElSohly MA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
High-resolution capillary gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and mass spectrometry (GC and GC/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to establish complex chemical profiles (chemical signatures) of Cannabis samples of known origin. Over 100 compounds could be differentiated, including noncannabinoids (terpenes, alkanes) as well as minor and major cannabinoids and their acids. A characteristic peak pattern was found within a limited number of specimens of identical origin. Correlation studies on the basis of peak area ratios [A(x)/A(i.s.)] showed the feasibility of tracing Cannabis chemically to its country of origin. Several forensic science applications for the chromatographic and spectroscopic profiles of confiscated Cannabis samples are discussed, such as detection of additives (phencyclidine), differentiation of chemotypes, and monitoring of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) potency.
Stability of Plasma Total Cholesterol, Triglycerides, and Apolipoproteins B and A-I During the Early Postmortem Period
Authors: Särkioja T , Ylä-Herttuala S , Solakivi T , Nikkari T , Hirvonen J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The stability of plasma lipids and apolipoproteins during the early postmortem period was studied by taking four duplicate blood samples from eight cadavers 2, 6, 12, and 24 h after death. The bodies were kept at +4°C. The plasma samples were analyzed for total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), apolipoprotein B (apo B), and apolipoprotein A-I (apo A-I).
In TC, values rose by 6 and 11% in two cases, and in six cases diminished 3 to 15% during the first 6 h compared to values obtained 2 h postmortem. The greatest changes were a continuing rise in one case by 33% and a fall by 21% in another case during 24 h. In TG values marked changes took place including one case with a rise of 67% within 24 h. The concentrations of apo B rose by 9 to 11% in three cases and fell by 3 and 4% in two cases during 6 h, but during the whole study period a rise up to 78% occurred. In the concentrations of apo A-I, cases fell by as much as 42% in 6 h, and in one case rose by 20% during 6 h. The results indicate that unpredictable fluctuations occur in plasma lipid and apolipoprotein values within 24 h after death, and they should be interpreted cautiously if the samples have been taken after a prolonged postmortem period.
Operational Criteria for the Determination of Suicide
Authors: Rosenberg ML , Davidson LE , Smith JC , Berman AL , Buzbee H , Gantner G , Gay GA , Moore-Lewis B , Mills DH , Murray D , O'Carroll PW , Jobes D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Suicide is an important public health problem for which we have an inadequate public health database. In the United States, decisions about whether deaths are listed as suicides on death certificates are usually made by a coroner or medical examiner. These certification decisions are frequently marked by a lack of consistency and clarity, and laws and procedures for guiding these decisions vary from state to state and even from county to county.
Without explicit criteria to aid in this decision making, coroners or medical examiners may be more susceptible to pressures from families or communities not to certify specific deaths as suicide. In addition, coroners or medical examiners may certify similar deaths differently at different times. The degree to which suicides may be underreported or misclassified is unknown. This makes it impossible to estimate accurately the number of deaths by suicide, to identify risk factors, or to plan and evaluate preventive interventions.
To remedy these problems, a working group representing coroners, medical examiners, statisticians, and public health agencies developed operational criteria to assist in the determination of suicide. These criteria are based on a definition of suicide as “death arising from an act inflicted upon oneself with the intent to kill oneself.” The purpose of these criteria is to improve the validity and reliability of suicide statistics by: (1) promoting consistent and uniform classifications; (2) making the criteria for decision making in death certification explicit; (3) increasing the amount of information used in decision making; (4) aiding certifiers in exercising their professional judgment; and (5) establishing common standards of practice for the determination of suicide.
Causes of Death of Patients in an Institution for the Developmentally Disabled
Authors: Blisard KS , Martin C , Brown GW , Smialek JE , Davis LE , McFeeley PJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The causes of death of 53 severely to profoundly developmentally disabled patients who died in an intermediate care facility were reviewed. Respiratory disease, predominantly pneumonia and aspiration, accounted for 72% of deaths. Seven patients died of nonrespiratory causes, and in 8 patients, no cause of death could be determined, even after a complete autopsy or investigation. The median age at death was 20 years. The weights of these patients' organs at autopsy were lower than those for normal individuals of the same age. The lifespan of these severely impaired individuals continues to be significantly shortened, even with improved methods of care.
Bullet Ricochet from Gypsum Wallboard
Authors: Jordan GE , Bratton DD , Donahue HCH , Rowe WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In a criminal case, police alleged that a gouge in a plaster wall was the result of a bullet ricochet. Experimental studies showed that it is possible to obtain bullet ricochets from gypsum wallboard if the bullets are fired at a very low angle of incidence into the wallboard. The resulting ricochet marks, however, did not resemble the gouge alleged to have been caused by a bullet ricochet. When the angle of ricochet was determined, it was in all cases greater than the angle of incidence. While these results differ from those obtained in studies of ricochets from concrete and metal plates, they are similar to the results obtained in studies of bullet ricochet from soil and water.
Regional Study of Free Fatty Acids and Free Carnitine Behavior in Cardiac Tissue in Relation to Different Causes of Death
Authors: Lachica E , Villanueva E , Luna A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The determination of free fatty acids (FFA) and free carnitine (FC) in seven different regions of the human heart has been done. The hearts used were classified into six groups according to the cause of death. The results show that these two parameters are useless in ascertaining the cause of death, although they can provide useful postmortem information about the duration of the agonal process.