bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Genotype Frequencies and Interlocus Association for the PM, DQA1, and D1S80 Loci in Four Populations
Authors: Klitz W , Reynolds R , Chen J , Erlich HA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele frequencies of the LDLR, HBGG, GYPA, D7S8, GC, DQA1, and D1S80 loci are presented and genotypes are analyzed for each of four ethnic groups: African Americans (n = 200), US Caucasians (n = 200), US Hispanic (n = 200), and Japanese (n = 89). Hardy-Weinberg genotypic proportions were observed in all but two of the 28 population-locus tests undertaken. Those two instances are attributable to type I statistical error. Gametic equilibrium among loci is an assumption invoked for application of the product rule to utilize the discriminatory power from two or more loci simultaneously. Two statistical methods, a genotype matching statistic and log-linear modeling, were used to evaluate gametic disequilibrium. The match statistic, comparing observed to expected likelihood of genotypic identity for seven loci among pairs of individuals within the database, revealed only one statistically significant deviation among 20 tests. As expected, the probability of match was generally lowest in the test on all ethnic groups combined, indicating that allele frequencies differ among ethnic groups for some of the loci. This was confirmed with the statistic θ to measure ethnic stratification, in which about 0.10 of the genetic variation is apportioned among the four ethnic groups for four of the structural loci (LDLR, HBGG, GC, and DQA1), while for GYPA, D7S8, and D1S80, variation is more uniformly distributed among ethnic groups. Log-linear modeling was also applied to the five PM loci. The most parsimonious log-linear model included only three higher order terms; the two-way interactions of three of the PM loci with ethnic group. These three instances (LDLR, HBGG, and GC) indicated differences in allele frequencies between ethnic groups. No two or higher way interaction (disequilibrium) was observed among loci. In summary, the assumptions of Hardy-Weinberg and gametic equilibrium that facilitate the use of the five PM loci, DQA1 and D1S80 in forensic applications are consistent with the allele and genotype frequencies observed in these populations.
A Rare Mutation in the Amelogenin Gene and Its Potential Investigative Ramifications
Authors: Roffey PE , Eckhoff CI , Kuhl JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Over the past few years, the Australian forensic science community has adopted a common methodology and technology in the application of DNA profiling for investigative and forensic purposes. The ultimate objective of this initiative is the establishment of a national DNA database similar to that used in the UK. An integral part of this methodology is the use of “Profiler Plus,” a nonaplex of STRs combined with amelogenin, a locus utilized for sex determination. This paper reports the results from a case where a mutation in the annealing region of the amelogenin primers appears to have resulted in the failure to amplify the amelogenin Y-homolog from a phenotypically normal male. The result was confirmed using two different primer sets that amplify different regions of the amelogenin gene. This situation suggests that the genetic determination of sex based on the amelogenin sequences from specimens of unknown origin, such as crime scene samples, should not be considered infallible.
Hate Crimes on the Internet
Authors: Deirmenjian JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Internet serves as a channel for electronic communication on an international level. While communication on the Internet has grown exponentially, the proliferation of crimes in cyberspace has become rampant. Hate crimes, in particular, have become increasingly prevalent on the Internet. In this past decade, the United States government has taken significant measures to combat the proliferation of hate crimes. This paper reports six cases of “cyberhate” crimes and emphasizes pertinent legal issues surrounding them. Current modes of intervention are discussed, ranging from local to national levels. The forensic psychiatrist may undertake a challenging role in the interpretation of the hateful criminal mind at the interface of psychiatry and the law.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Analysis of Skin Resolution as an Aid in Identifying Trauma in Forensic Investigations
Authors: Rawson RB , Starich GH , Rawson RD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The forensic investigator is frequently confronted with cases that present with wounds and blunt force trauma. Presently, the forensic investigator depends upon previous experience and further investigative deduction of the crime scene to analyze these injuries. Although not readily apparent to the naked eye, many skin tissue injuries can be visualized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This study was designed to establish skin trauma resolution using SEM in various skin preparations. Tissue trauma was induced on leather, preserved skin, fresh skin, and living skin using dies of varying thread size. Calibrated pressure forces in pounds per square inch (psi) were applied and impressions made using vinyl polysiloxane. Positive replicas of the tissues were prepared for SEM using isocyanate resin. After sputter coating the cast with 35 nm of gold-palladium, electron micrographs were generated using a Jeol JSM-5310L V scanning electron microscope. To establish resolution, thread widths of 52, 104, and 208 threads per inch (tpi) and trauma forces of 150, 200, and 250 psi were used to produce the impressions. Microgrooves that were identified on the die threads were analyzed. The optimum pressure for resolution studies was 150 psi using the 52 tpi die on the leather sample (4.67 + 0.88 µm, p = 0.046 and 0.025, respectively, by ANOVA). The resolution was compared to that of leather using preserved, fresh, and living skin. The resolution in preserved and fresh skin was less than for leather (9.00 ± 1.73 and 10.5 ± 4.5 versus 4.67 ± 0.88 µm, p = 0.09 and p = 0.20, respectively). Living skin resolution was 3 µm at 52 tpi and 100 psi. Various implements of blunt force trauma were also examined using the leather sample. Time after trauma resolution was examined at 0 (3 µm), 5 (6 µm), 10 (8 µm), and 20 (9 µm) min in living tissue. A comparison between the microgrooves on the die replicas and the tissue trauma impressions revealed striking agreement for both linearity and resolution. Analysis of the microgrooves suggests that discrete morphological characteristics are seen in skin tissue traumas. This method could expand the tools available for the forensic investigation of blunt force trauma.
Time Trends in a Study of 440 Mass Slayings/Rampages Occurring in Public Places
Authors: Mooney JJ , Orav EJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We looked for variations in the timing of mass slayings/rampages (MS/R) committed in public places by solitary perpetrators. News reports on 440 MS/R from 1920 to 1996 yielded 379 onset times which were examined for temporal patterns. There was a dramatic increase in the number of MS/R from 1966 to 1995. We observed a significant monthly variation with peaks in July–August and December, and a bimodal daily rhythm for MS/R onset with a major peak at 11:00 a.m. and a minor peak at 8:00 p.m. Observed time trends for MS/R could help develop protective programs to reduce stress and violence in public places.
Elimination of 7-Aminoflunitrazepam and Flunitrazepam in Urine After a Single Dose of Rohypnol®
Authors: Negrusz A , Moore CM , Stockham TL , Poiser KR , Kern JL , Palaparthy R , Le NLT , Janicak PG , Levy NA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The hypnotic benzodiazepine flunitrazepam (Rohypnol®) has been identified as the drug of choice for the purposes of “drugging” unsuspecting victims and raping them while they are under the influence of this substance. The objective of this paper was to study elimination of flunitrazepam and 7-aminoflunitrazepam in urine collected from ten healthy volunteers who received a single 2 mg oral dose of Rohypnol®, to determine how long after drug administration 7-aminoflunitrazepam can be detected. A highly sensitive NCI-GC-MS method for the simultaneous quantitation of flunitrazepam (LOQ 100 pg/mL) and 7-aminoflunitrazepam (LOQ 10 pg/mL) in urine was developed. All samples were screened for benzodiazepines using optimized micro-plate enzyme immunoassay. The highest concentrations of 7-aminoflunitrazepam (70–518 ng/mL) and flunitrazepam (0.7–2.8 ng/mL) in urine were observed 6 h after drug administration in nine subjects and after 24 h in one subject. In six subjects 7-aminoflunitrazepam was detected up to 14 days after flunitrazepam administration, in one subject up to 21 days and in three subjects up to 28 days. In urine samples collected from six volunteers, flunitrazepam was detected three days after Rohypnol® intake, in three subjects 24 h, and in one subject 5 days later. Benzodiazepine micro-plate enzyme immunoassay kit allowed the detection of flunitrazepam and metabolities 5 to 21 days after drug administration.
Regional Distribution of Cocaine in Postmortem Brain of Chronic Human Cocaine Users
Authors: Kalasinsky KS , Bosy TZ , Schmunk GA , Ang L , Adams V , Gore SB , Smialek J , Furukawa Y , Guttman M , Kish SJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We measured concentrations of cocaine and its major metabolites (benzoylecgonine, ecgonine methylester, norcocaine, and cocaethylene) in 15 autopsied brain regions of 14 human chronic cocaine users. Only slight differences were observed in concentrations of cocaine and its metabolites amongst the examined brain areas. Although it is likely that some postmortem redistribution of the drug must have occurred, our data are consistent with the possibility that behaviorally relevant doses of cocaine are widely distributed throughout the brain of humans who use the drug on a chronic basis. Consideration should therefore be given to the possible pharmacological and toxicological actions of cocaine in both striatal and extra-striatal brain areas in human users of the drug.
Strontium Isotope Composition of Skeletal Material Can Determine the Birth Place and Geographic Mobility of Humans and Animals
Authors: Beard BL , Johnson CM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Sr isotope composition measured in skeletal elements (e.g., bone, teeth, or antlers) can be used to infer the geographic region that an animal or human inhabited, because different regions tend to have distinct Sr isotope compositions, and natural variations in the relative abundance of Sr isotopes are not changed as Sr is processed through the food chain. Therefore, an organism that ingests Sr from one region can have a Sr isotope composition that is different than that of an organism that ingests Sr from another region. The Sr isotope composition of skeletal elements is a reflection of the concentration-weighted average of dietary Sr that was ingested while that skeletal element was produced. Because different skeletal elements grow and exchange Sr at different stages during the life times of organisms, Sr isotope analysis of different skeletal elements can be used to infer changes in geographic location at different stages in an organism's life. The Sr isotope composition measured in human teeth will reflect the average Sr isotope composition that was ingested as a child, due to the immobile nature of Sr and Ca in teeth after formation, whereas the Sr isotope composition of bone will reflect the average isotopic composition over the last ten years of life, due to continuous biological processing of Sr and Ca in bone. Inferring the average isotopic composition of dietary Sr is best done by analyzing skeletal fragments from control groups, which might be animals that have the same feeding habits as the animal in question, or, in the case of humans, analysis of close family relatives. In cases where it is not possible to construct a Sr isotope database from control groups, it becomes necessary to estimate the isotopic composition of dietary Sr based on geologic principles. We present three case studies from our research that illustrate a range of approaches: (1) results from a criminal case where a deer was illegally harvested and the location of the deer was important to establish, (2) a pilot study of commingled human remains from a burial in Vietnam, associated with the Vietnam Conflict, and (3) a study of 13th and 14th century migration of people from an archeological site in the Southwest United States.
A Study on the Use of Photopolymer Reflex Plate in the Forgery of Chinese Seals
Authors: Cheng KC , Cheng N , Wei YC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study compares the identifying characteristics between the impressions made with original Chinese seals and photopolymer replicate seals, and between the impressions made with two photopolymer replicate seals that originate from one single negative. Various seal materials common to the Chinese community such as cow's horns and ivory are employed. Other than the common factors such as different incident angle upon imprinting or different degree of inking that constitute the natural variation in impressions, the physical changes of the seal materials with temperature will be considered. This study concludes that photopolymer replicate seal impressions can be differentiated from the originals in respect to print density and stroke morphology, but it is very difficult to differentiate between two photopolymer replicate seal impressions with the same origin. This study also proposes a simple method for the examination of forged Chinese seal impressions.
Allele and Genotype Frequencies for D1S80 and 3′APOB in Recanati, Central Italy
Authors: Biondolillo M , Mamolini E , Manni F , Scapoli C , Lorenzetti L , Barrai I 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The VNTR 3′APOB and D1S80 loci were studied in a sample of 179 individuals living in the Recanati Area (Central Italy). For 3′APOB, we found 34 genotypes and 11 alleles. The system was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.788 and 0.798 respectively. The discrimination power was 0.96, the a-priori paternity exclusion power was 0.619 and the polymorphism information content was 0.773. For D1S80, we found 45 genotypes and 18 alleles. The system deviated significantly from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.696 and 0.790 respectively. The discrimination power was 0.96, the a-priori paternity exclusion power was 0.617 and PIC was 0.767. The Recanati sample was compared with the general Italian frequencies for the 3′APOB locus. A difference of borderline significance was detected (P = 0.04). For D1S80, the sample was compared with a sample from Southern Italy and no significant difference was detected.
Population Frequency Distribution of HumF13A01, HumFXIIIB, and HumLIPOL Loci in the Basque Country (Northern Spain)
Authors: Fernández-Fernández I , Castro A , Buján M , Cuevas N , García-Orad A , de Pancorbo MM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A population study of unrelated individuals from the Basque Country (Northern Spain) was carried out using the GenePrint STR System. The PCR products were separated on denaturing polyacrylamide gels and visualized by silver staining. Three tetrameric loci were evaluated: HumF13A01, HumFXIIIB, and HumLIPOL. All loci fit Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and independence of alleles was found between these STR loci. A comparison with other population groups indicated allele frequencies are well conserved in Caucasians, but differ from other racial groups. The calculated parameters a priori probability of exclusion (Pex) and “power of discrimination” (PD) show how informative these loci are for the determination of identity and relatedness of individuals.
Loss of Heterozygosity Detected in a Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Locus Commonly Used for Human DNA Identification
Authors: Rubocki RJ , Duffy KJ , Shepard KL , McCue BJ , Shepherd SJ , Wisecarver JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Short tandem repeat (STR) markers are commonly used in basic genetic research and in human identification testing. Clinically, STRs can be used to study genetic alterations in tumors. A genetic deletion common to many types of cancer is referred to as the loss of heterozygosity (LOH). Numerous examples of LOH in cancer have been described and some have been mapped to areas located in close proximity to markers employed in human identity testing. Despite this fact, LOH has rarely been observed for STR loci commonly employed in forensic testing. Recently, for medico-legal purposes, we were asked to determine whether a tissue biopsy originated from a particular individual. For a reference source we assessed two specimens, one from normal tissue and one from cancerous tissue. When both reference specimens were used to generate DNA profiles, we observed LOH at one STR locus, D13S317. As demonstrated in other cancers only the cancerous biopsy demonstrated LOH. The forensic community should be cognizant of these unusual circumstances because, as identification of human DNA continues to be used more extensively, certain instances will arise in which reference material will not be readily available. In these situations, archived specimens may be employed as a reference source. Clinical specimens such as tissue biopsies should be used with caution if they have not been confirmed to contain normal tissue.
The Presumptive Reagent Fluorescein for Detection of Dilute Bloodstains and Subsequent STR Typing of Recovered DNA
Authors: Budowle B , Leggitt JL , Defenbaugh DA , Keys KM , Malkiewicz SF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A presumptive reagent for dilute blood detection other than luminol is fluorescein. The sensitivity of fluorescein approaches the sensitivity of detection levels of luminol. The fluorescein detection method offers the advantages of working in a lighted environment, and the reaction persists longer than luminol. A series of diluted bloodstains, ranging from neat to 1:1,000,000, was placed on a variety of substrates. Three sets were made per substrate. One set was exposed to fluorescin, one set was exposed to luminol, and one set served as an uncontaminated control. The fluorescein signal persisted longer than luminol. However, background staining for fluorescein was observed on some substrates within 30 s to 1 min, and no background staining was observed for luminol. Stains on non-absorbent surfaces were detectable at 1:100,000 dilutions, and stains on absorbent surfaces were detectable usually at no more than 1:100. The sensitivity of detection of fluorescein was comparable to that of luminol in this study. In all cases, where sufficient DNA was recovered, typeable results at all 13 core CODIS STR loci were obtained from treated bloodstains and controls. The results from STR typing indicate that there was no evidence of DNA degradation.
RFLP Band Size Standards: NIST Standard Reference Material® 2390
Authors: Duewer DL , Richie KL , Reeder DJ 
Published: August 2015

AbstractThe procedural standard for DNA profiling developed by the U.S. advisory board on DNA quality assurance methods mandates annual confirmation of forensic DNA measurement systems against an appropriate reference material supplied by or traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST Standard Reference Material® (SRM®) 2390 is a suitable and appropriate standard for HaeIII restriction enzyme-based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) profiling systems. Originally issued in 1992, an among-laboratory SRM 2390 recertification study was initiated in 1997. Using data provided by the 20 state, local, or commercial forensic laboratory participants, quantitative band sizes values (expected mean values and associated bivariate tolerance intervals) are established for two different-source DNAs (female cell line K562 and healthy male “TAW”) for genetic loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D17S79. Methods for validating an RFLP measurement system, validating a control material or other secondary standard, and for tracing a particular set of RFLP measurements to NIST SRM 2390 are described in detail.
RFLP Band Size Standards: Cell Line K562 Values from 1991 to 1997 Proficiency Studies
Authors: Duewer DL , Gary KT , Reeder DJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Cell line K562 is the de facto forensic control material for forensic restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) DNA profiling in the U.S. Fifty-one proficiency tests conducted from 1991 through 1997 enable a detailed description of RFLP measurement performance during this period. Sufficient data are available to define reference distributions for all commonly utilized and many less commonly reported genetic loci, for both HaeIII- and HinfI-based RFLP systems. The average measured size of HaeIII locus D1S7 and D5S110 bands has varied slightly over time; while relatively small, these temporal changes add to the overall interlaboratory measurement uncertainty. The characteristic standard deviation for HinfI RFLP system measurements has a nearly identical dependence on expected band size as does the standard deviation for HaeIII measurements. The ellipsoidal distance, K, is suggested for use as an RFLP data quality metric; the critical threshold value that on average excludes 1% of plausibly valid proficiency data for a given polymorphic locus is K1% = 14.2.
The Identification of 2-Chloro-4,5-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine in an Illicit Drug Seizure
Authors: Lewis RJ , Reed D , Service AG , Langford AM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This work outlines the unequivocal identification of the “ecstasy” analog, 2-chloro-4,5-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine, using combined gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR).
This compound was identified along with 3,4-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA) in an illicit tablet seizure, which included 26 off-white tablets.
The Effects of Microwave Irradiation on Occluded Solvents in Illicitly Produced Cocaine Hydrochloride
Authors: Morello DR , Casale JF , Stevenson ML , Klein RFX 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The current clandestine methodology for the manufacture of illicit cocaine hydrochloride utilizes microwave heating in order to dry the finished product. This study addresses the effects this step has on the occluded solvents present in newly prepared cocaine hydrochloride. Nine 1-kilogram-sized batches of cocaine hydrochloride were prepared from cocaine base using a variety of solvents or solvent mixtures commonly utilized in clandestine laboratories, pressed into bricks, and submitted to microwave heating. Residual solvents were qualitatively and quantitatively monitored before, during, and following the microwaving step by static headspace-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. All solvents used in the conversion process were easily detected in the bricks even after extensive irradiation, confirming that occluded solvents are extremely resistant to removal by microwave heating. Qualitative and quantitative data corresponding to the residual solvents in the prepared cocaine hydrochloride bricks are presented.