bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Alcohol Content of Beer and Malt Beverages: Forensic Considerations
Authors: Logan BK , Case GA , Distefano S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Beer consumption is commonly an issue in a medico-legal setting, requiring estimates either of a likely blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for a given pattern of consumption or vice versa. Four hundred and four beers and malt beverages available for sale in the State of Washington were tested by gas chromatography for their alcohol content. Considerable variability in the alcoholic strength was found, even within the same class. Overall the range of concentrations was 2.92%v/v to 15.66%v/v. The mean alcohol concentration for ales was 5.51%v/v (SD 1.23%v/v), and for lagers, 5.32% (SD 1.43%v/v). Some specialty brews had characteristically higher or lower mean concentrations; ice beers 6.07%v/v, malt liquor 7.23%v/v, light beer 4.13%v/v, seasonal ales 6.30%v/v. Six brands of lager and four light beers account for the majority of all beer sales in the United States, and the mean alcohol concentration for these products was measured as 4.73%v/v and 4.10%v/v respectively. Few of the beers (17%) were labeled with respect to alcohol content, and in some cases, there was a significant disparity between the concentration listed on the label, and the measured alcohol concentration. Toxicologists need to exercise caution when performing Widmark type calculations, using all available information to select the most appropriate estimate for alcoholic strength of a beer or malt beverage.
Positive Identification of Cremains Recovered from an Automobile Based on Presence of an Internal Fixation Device
Authors: Bennett JL , Benedix DC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report on the use of a surgically implanted device, an EBI osteostimulator, as a means of establishing the identification of a homicide victim. The use of such an appliance for securing positive identification has not been previously reported. Additionally we stress the importance of intensive and accurate excavation at scenes involving intense burning where the potential for non-skeletal contaminants is high.
A Case of Suicidal Hanging Staged as Homicide
Authors: Adair TW , Dobersen MJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Suicides staged as homicides are rarely encountered by crime scene investigators. The case of one such staged homicide is presented in which the victim used restraints during a hanging. No other cases of suicidal hangings staged as homicides could be found in the forensic literature. Similar cases should be reported so additional data can be gained from these deaths to help reveal indicators of suicide rather than homicide.
Detection of Azide in Forensic Samples by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Hortin GL , Dey SK , Hall M , Andrew Robinson C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Azide salts are highly toxic compounds that have been difficult to detect in forensic samples. Here, anion analysis by capillary electrophoresis with indirect spectrophotometric detection was applied to detect azide in forensic specimens from two suicide victims. Gastric specimens from the victims were shown to have high azide concentrations; azide represented one of the major anionic components and no corresponding component occurred in normal gastric juice. Samples of blood and bile had low concentrations of azide near the limits of detection. The method described for azide analysis used simple steps for sample preparation and analysis time was less than 10 min per sample. It offers a simple and reliable method for detecting azide in biological fluids.
Distribution of D1S80 Alleles in the Bahrainian Population
Authors: Tahir MA , Rogers C , Alkhayyat M , El-Gohary M , Budowle B , Balamurugan K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study demonstrates that the locus D1S80 is highly polymorphic in the Bahrainian population. There were 24 different D1S80 alleles and 51 distinct genotypes observed in 198 Bahrainians. There was one allele observed that was smaller than the 14 repeat allele. This data set meets the Hardy-Weinberg expectations (HWE) and could be a useful marker for parentage testing and forensic applications.
Commentary on Tomczak PD, Buikstra JE. Analysis of Blunt Trauma Injuries: Vertical Deceleration Versus Horizontal Deceleration Injuries. J Forensic Sci 1999; 44(2):253–62
Authors: Galloway A , Mason RT 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Tomczak PD, Buikstra JE. Analysis of blunt trauma injuries: Vertical deceleration versus horizontal deceleration injuries. J Forensic Sci 1999; 44(2):253–62.
Commentary on Hochmeister MN, Budowle B, Sparkes R, Rudin O, Gehrig C, Thali M, Schmidt L, Cordier A. Validation Studies of an Immunochromatographic 1-step Test for the Forensic Identification of Human Blood. J Fosensic Sci 1999;44:597–602
Authors: Rowley BO 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Hochmeister MN, Budowle B, Sparkes R, Rudin O, Gehrig C, Thali M, Schmidt L, Cordier A. Validation studies of an immunochromatographic 1-step test for the forensic identification of human blood. J Fosensic Sci 1999;44:597–602.
Commentary on Koons, RD, Buscaglia J. The Forensic Significance of Glass Composition and Refractive Index Measurements. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(3):496–503
Authors: Curran JM , Buckleton JS , Triggs CM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Koons, RD, Buscaglia J. The forensic significance of glass composition and refractive index measurements. J Forensic Sci 1999;44(3):496–503.
Commentary on Linch CA, Smith SL, Prahlow JA. Evaluation of the Human Hair Root for DNA Typing Subsequent to Microscopic Comparison. J Forensic Sci. 1998; 43(2):305–14
Authors: Pettenati MJ , Nagesh Rao P , Linch CA , Prahlow JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary on Linch CA, Smith SL, Prahlow JA. Evaluation of the human hair root for DNA typing subsequent to microscopic comparison. J Forensic Sci. 1998; 43(2):305–14.
Review of Principles of Forensic Toxicology
Authors: Winek CL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The publishers promote this textbook as the new standard. It is not the new standard; it is the premier textbook in forensic toxicology. After thirty years of teaching graduate courses in forensic toxicology, I well recognize that a textbook for a course on the topic was not available. We have always needed a forensic toxicology textbook the equivalent of Goodman ilman's Pharmacology text. This textbook has the potential for becoining the Goodman & Gilman of forensic toxicology.
Status of Alcohol Absorption in Drinking Drivers Killed in Traffic Accidents
Authors: Levine B , Smialek JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
One issue which constantly confronts the forensic toxicologist in drinking driver cases is the relationship between the breath or blood alcohol concentration (AC) of the driver at the time of an event such as a traffic stop or an accident and the AC measured at a time subsequent to the event. In theory, the AC can be rising, on a plateau or declining at the time of the event. Several studies have indicated that the overwhelming majority of drinking drivers are on a plateau or are post-absorptive at the time of the event. In this study, driver fatality cases investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland during a three-year period were reviewed. Included in this study were cases positive for alcohol in the blood at a cutoff of 0.01 g/dL and death occurring within 15 min of the accident. In fact, many of these deaths were instantaneous or near instantaneous based on the injuries documented by the medical examiner at autopsy. The blood and urine were analyzed for alcohol by head-space gas chromatography and urine AC to blood AC ratios were calculated. A total of 129 cases were included in this study. Eleven of the 129 cases (8.5%) had urine to blood AC ratio less than 1.0. It is likely that these individuals were in the absorptive phase at the time that the accident occurred. Thirty-two cases had a urine to blood AC ratio between 1.0 and 1.2 inclusive. In these cases, the subject could be viewed as in the plateau phase of the blood AC versus time curve. The remaining 86 cases had a urine to blood AC ratio greater than 1.2. This suggests that these individuals were in the post-absorptive state at the time of the accident. The information acquired from this study provides additional evidence to support the notion that the vast majority of individuals are not in the absorptive phase at the time of a traffic stop or an accident.
Among Fatal Poisonings Dextropropoxyphene Predominates in Younger People, Antidepressants in the Middle Aged and Sedatives in the Elderly
Authors: Jonasson B , Jonasson U , Saldeen T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To compare the characteristics of dextropropoxyphene (DXP) poisoning victims with those of victims of poisonings by antidepressants and sedatives, we examined all fatal poisonings due to DXP, antidepressants or sedatives among autopsies performed at one department of forensic medicine in Sweden during the six-year period from 1992 to 1997.
In 202 cases, death was classified as fatal poisonings by DXP, antidepressants or sedatives. DXP caused death in 78 cases (39%), antidepressants in 49 (24%), and sedatives in 75 (37%). DXP as a single preparation was predominant in causing death. The second compound, flunitrazepam, caused death in 30 cases (15%).
The victims of poisonings by DXP, antidepressants, or sedatives shared a similar history of alcohol/drug abuse, depression and somatic illness. They were mostly living alone at the time of death (&gt;60%), the majority died at home (81%), and suicide was the most frequent manner of death (73%).
Age seemed to be an important characteristic regarding the choice of drug. Younger people predominantly died of DXP (mean age 43 years, 95% confidence interval, CI 39–47), and elderly people of sedatives (mean age 59 years, CI 55–63). Antidepressants were found mainly in middle-aged victims (mean age 51 years, CI 48–54).
The predominance of sedatives among the elderly might be explained by a very high prescription rate of such drugs in older age groups, but prescription rate could not explain the DXP predominance among younger people. We hypothesize that younger people are more prone to abuse therapeutic drugs for cuphoric reasons than elderly people, and that because of its high toxicity, DXP leads to accidental deaths more often than sedatives.
Postmortem Investigation of Lamotrigine Concentrations
Authors: Pricone MG , King CV , Drummer OH , Opeskin K , McIntyre IM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Lamotrigine is a relatively new anticonvulsant. Therapeutic plasma concentrations generally range from 1 to 4 mg/L, although several studies have shown that good control of epilepsy has been achieved with concentrations reaching 10 mg/L generally, with little toxicity. In overdose, however, the drug has been linked to ECG changes that may suggest a possible arrythmogenic effect and hence cardiac toxicity. Lamotrigine has also been shown to cause encephalopathy and thus neurotoxicity.
There is no information concerning postmortem lamotrigine concentrations and their interpretation. We describe lamotrigine concentrations in postmortem specimens including blood, liver, bile, vitreous humour, and urine from eight cases. A high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is described with extraction procedures for the various tissues.
Two possible groups were identified. The first being the “broader therapeutic” group with blood concentrations ranging from 0.9 to 7.2 mg/L and corresponding liver concentrations ranging from 16 to 36 mg/kg. The second being a “supratherapeutic” group with blood concentrations ranging from 20 to 39 mg/L and corresponding liver concentrations ranging from 53 to 350 mg/kg. Although none of the eight cases described were attributed to overdose by lamotrigine alone, the cause of death for one of the three cases in the “supratherapeutic” group was given as mixed drug toxicity. Cause of death for the remaining two cases in this group was reported as epilepsy. However, both these cases showed elevated concentrations of lamotrigine and both were co-medicated with valproic acid. Such co-administration has been shown in the literature to lead to elevated lamotrigine concentrations and a reduction in lamotrigine dose has been recommended. With such data, we highlight the importance of monitoring lamotrigine concentrations in cases co-medicated, particularly with valproic acid.
Cause and Manner of Death Among Users of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids
Authors: Thiblin I , Lindquist O , Rajs J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Medicolegally investigated deaths among 34 male users of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are described. Nine persons were victims of homicide, 11 had committed suicide, 12 deaths were judged as accidental and 2 as indeterminate.
In two cases of accidental poisoning, the levels of pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs were considered too low to be the sole cause of death and AAS was considered part of the lethal polypharmacia.
Chronic cardiac changes were observed in 12 cases. In two cases of accidental poisonous deaths, these changes were regarded as contributory cause of death.
Homicides, suicides, and poisonings determined accidental or indeterminate in manner were related to impulsive, disinhibited behavior characterized by violent rages, mood swings, and/or uncontrolled drug intake.
The observations in the present study indicate an increased risk of violent death from impulsive, aggressive behavior, or depressive symptoms associated with use of AAS. There are also data to support earlier reports of possible lethal cardiovascular complications from use of AAS. Furthermore, a contributing role of AAS in lethal polypharmacia is suggested. Finally, the observations indicate that use of AAS may be the gateway of approach to abuse of other psychotropic drugs.
Potency Trends of Δ9-THC and Other Cannabinoids in Confiscated Marijuana from 1980–1997
Authors: ElSohly MA , Ross SA , Mehmedic Z , Arafat R , Yi B , Banahan BF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The analysis of 35,312 cannabis preparations confiscated in the USA over a period of 18 years for delta-9-tetrahy-drocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and other major cannabinoids is reported. Samples were identified as cannabis, hashish, or hash oil. Cannabis samples were further subdivided into marijuana (loose material, kilobricks and buds), sinsemilla, Thai sticks and ditchweed. The data showed that more than 82% of all confiscated samples were in the marijuana category for every year except 1980 (61%) and 1981 (75%). The potency (concentration of Δ9-THC) of marijuana samples rose from less than 1.5% in 1980 to approximately 3.3% in 1983 and 1984, then fluctuated around 3% till 1992. Since 1992, the potency of confiscated marijuana samples has continuously risen, going from 3.1% in 1992 to 4.2% in 1997. The average concentration of Δ9-THC in all cannabis samples showed a gradual rise from 3% in 1991 to 4.47% in 1997. Hashish and hash oil, on the other hand, showed no specific potency trends. Other major cannabinoids [cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC)] showed no significant change in their concentration over the years.
Neck Injuries Caused by Being Run Over by a Motor Vehicle
Authors: Maxeiner H , Ehrlich E , Schyma C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report a homicide involving the use of a motor vehicle and simulating a traffic accident. This observation was the reason for a retrospective analysis of neck injuries in victims of traffic accidents, in which a person has been run over (RO) by a motor vehicle. The autopsy material of two institutes from 1990–1996 was used. The following findings were obtained in 63 victims: laryngohyoid fractures (LH-fx): 10 cases (16%) with a clear difference between the institutes (22% versus 7%). This resulted from examination with special regard to such injuries in many cases at one of the institutes, whereas only autopsy reports were taken retrospectively from the other institute. Five of these cases had suffered only minor LH-fx (as seen frequently in strangulation), although extensive run over (RO) injuries of the other cervical tissues were present. All LH-fx were caused by direct compression of the neck; in eight of the cases they were combined with mandibular fractures. Petechial hemorrhages (petH) at the eye lids/conjunctivae were seen in 19 cases (30%); 16 of these were related to thorax RO injuries, three to abdominal RO only. Four cases involved LH-fx, petH as well as cervical skin lesions and additional cervical soft tissue hemorrhages. Interpretation can be extremely difficult with this combination of findings if the character of the event cannot be established as accidental beyond doubt on the basis of the circumstances.
Spectroscopic Determination of Skin Viability. A Predictor of Postmortem Interval
Authors: Doukas AG , Bamberg M , Gillies R , Evans R , Kollias N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We have demonstrated that skin viability decreases at a measurable rate following death in an animal model. The decreased skin viability was measured by fluorescein diacetate and ethidium bromide using fluorescence emission spectroscopy. There is significant decrease of the fluorescence intensity of the fluorescein diacetate assay between the 1–4 h, the 6–24 h, and the &gt;40 h time points postmortem. For times between 6–24 h and &gt;40 h postmortem the ethidium bromide assay showed consistent and significant increases in signal. The fluorescence measurements in this study showed that under the experimental conditions the time of death could be determined for &lt;4, 6–24, and &gt;40 h potmotrem. The application of these assays in the field will require further study of the environmental factors.
Heroin Body Packing: Three Fatal Cases of Intestinal Perforation
Authors: Hutchins KD , Pierre-Louis PJB , Zaretski L , Williams AW , Lin RL , Natarajan GA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Death from heroin body packing has been well described in the forensic literature. Most fatalities are due to drug leakage and consequent acute heroin toxicity. Recently, drug traffickers have become more sophisticated in their packaging, and the risk of rupture of drug packets is more remote. Though intestinal obstruction is a recognized risk of body packing, rarely has this resulted in death. We describe four cases of heroin body packing presenting to the Regional Medical Examiner Office in New Jersey. Death in three of these cases was due to intestinal obstruction, with resultant intestinal rupture and peritonitis. Toxicologic evaluation in these three cases was negative for opiates or other drugs of abuse. In one case, death was due to acute heroin toxicity, validated by toxicologic analysis. We briefly discuss the differing drug packaging found in these four cases and the ramifications of packaging as it relates to intestinal obstruction.
In Vivo Facial Tissue Depth Measurements for Children and Adults
Authors: Manhein MH , Listi GA , Barsley RE , Musselman R , Barrow NE , Ubelaker DH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study reports results of a facial tissue depth measurements project conducted over a two-year period on a modern sample of children and adults of both sexes and varying ages and races. The purpose of this research was to increase available tissue depth data for children and update facial tissue depth measurements for American adults. Most volunteers for this project were patients or visitors to the pediatric clinic at the Louisiana State University Medical Center, School of Dentistry, in New Orleans, Using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology, we scanned 551 children and 256 adults at 19 points across the face. Thirteen of the scanned points were traditional landmarks while six others were areas not measured by previous researchers or were points for which very little data exist for both children and adults. For this presentation, we analyzed data for 515 children and 197 adults. Results of Pearson's correlations, analysis of variance, and paired t-tests indicate that age, sex, and race are significant factors when considering tissue depth means for different measurement locations across the human face. These new standards are compared to the work of other researchers. Our results provide valuable assistance in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional facial reproductions and superimpositions.
The Rhomboid Fossa of the Clavicle as a Sex and Age Estimator
Authors: Rogers NL , Flournoy LE , McCormick WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The costoclavicular (rhomboid) ligament connects the first rib to the clavicle, stabilizing the pectoral girdle. It produces skeletal traits that may be tubercles, roughened impressions, shallow groove-like fossae, deep fossae, or leave no trace. A pit or depression at this site is often called a “rhomboid fossa.” While these markings may appear pathological, they are normal variants of the clavicle. Using a large contemporary sample (N = 344; 113 females, 231 males), we evaluated the presence of a rhomboid fossa as a sex and age indicator for unidentified skeletal remains.
Logistic regression found significant relationships between the presence of a rhomboid fossa and sex and between presence of a rhomboid fossa and age. Fossae were more common in males (36% left, 31% right) than in females (3% left, 8% right). Posterior probabilities suggest that a fossa on the right clavicle is indicative of a male with 81.7% probability; a fossa on the left is indicative of a male with 92.2% probability. Younger individuals more commonly exhibited rhomboid fossae than older individuals, and the largest fossae were most common in males 20–30 years of age. However, the age effect was not conclusive and must be corroborated by other methods. A test of the sex estimation method on an independent sample (26 males, 23 females) found nine males and only one female with fossae present on the left clavicle.
When the costoclavicular attachment exhibits an impression, a tubercle, or leaves no trace, this method cannot be used for sex estimation. When a clavicle exhibits a rhomboid fossa, it is likely from a male. The greater difference in fossa expression between the sexes on the left clavicle makes use of the left bone preferable. This technique can corroborate other sex estimates or provide an estimate for unknown individuals in the absence of other skeletal indicators.
Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys to Locate 1918 Spanish Flu Victims in Permafrost
Authors: Davis JL , Heginbottom JA , Annan AP , Daniels RS , Berdal BP , Bergan T , Duncan KE , Lewin PK , Oxford JS , Roberts N , Skehel JJ , Smith CR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The “Spanish Flu” killed over 40 million people worldwide in 1918. Archival records helped us identify seven men who died of influenza in 1918 and were interred in Longyearbyen. Svalbard, Norway, 1300 km from the North Pole. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was used successfully, in a high-resolution field survey mode, to locate a large excavation with seven coffins, near the existing seven grave markers. The GPR indicated that the ground was disturbed to 2 m depth and was frozen below 1 m. Subsequent excavation showed that: a) the GPR located the position of the graves accurately, b) the coffins were buried less than 1 m deep, and c) that the frozen ground was 1.2 m deep where the coffins were located. The GPR assisted in planning the exhumation, safely and economically, under the high degree of containment required. Virologic and bacteriologic investigations on recovered tissues may give us an opportunity to isolate and identify the micro-organisms involved in the 1918 influenza and expand our knowledge on the pathogenesis of influenza.