bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Forensic Significance of the Polymorphism of Hyoid Bone Shape
Authors: Pollanen MS , Ubelaker DH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The reasons why some hyoids fracture in strangulation and others do not may relate to anatomic features of the hyoid bone. On this basis, we studied the dimensions and shape of hyoid bones (n = 100) originating from the Terry collection, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution. The hyoid bones were extensively polymorphic in both dimensions studied, the span or breadth, and the length of the cornua. There was no linear relationship between the breadth and length dimensions of the bone. Based on qualitative assessment, hyoid bones could be classed as either hyperbolic (55%) or parabolic (45%) in shape. Hyperbolic hyoid bones could be distinguished from hyoid bones with a parabolic configuration on the basis of the metric data although there was considerable overlap in the dimensions of hyoid bones of both configurations. Female hyoid bones tended to be smaller in both dimensions than male hyoid bones. The metric parameters of fractured hyoid bones from 10 cases (8 female, 2 male) of strangulation were compared with the dimensions of hyoid bones in this study. The metric features of the fractured hyoid bones were attributable to the predominance of females in the group of fractured hyoid bones studied, an observation that is anticipated because the majority of strangulations involve female decedents. On this basis, we conclude that variables other than the shape and dimensions of the hyoid bone are more relevant in determining if hyoid fracture occurs during strangulation.
Interlaboratory Evaluation of Short Tandem Repeat Triplex CTT
Authors: Kline MC , Duewer DL , Newall P , Redman JW , Reeder DJ , Richard M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An interlaboratory comparison of typing results for Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) at the GenBank loci HUMCSF1PO, HUMTPOX, HUMTH01, and HUMVWFA31 using the “CTT triplex” and “CTTv quadruplex” has been evaluated. These STRs all have a nominal four basepair (bp) repeat. Seven different samples were distributed to 41 laboratories. The 34 laboratories that returned results used a wide variety of analytical systems. Comparable results were obtained for all samples at all loci when results were reported as an allelic name. Raw sizing results obtained from internal-lane sizing standards differed by nearly five bp at some loci. Many different factors contribute to this observed sizing variability, including choice of sizing standards and matrix composition. Although sizing results can be made more comparable by locus-specific offsets or calibration to a comprehensive set of alleles at each locus, samples typed to the allelic name can now be validly compared regardless of analytical method. Interlaboratory comparison of raw allelic size remains problematic.
HumCD4—Validation of a STR System for Forensic Purposes in an Austrian Caucasian Population Sample
Authors: Klintschar M , Crevenna R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The short tandem repeat system HumCD4 was amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood samples from 304 unrelated Austrian Caucasians and analyzed by horizontal, non-denaturing polyacrylamide electrophoresis. The mean exclusion chance was 0.417, the discriminating power 0.850 and the heterozygosity rate 0.628. The observed phenotype distribution is in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. In 100 families (200 meioses) no mutations were found. Sufficient amplification could be achieved with as little as 80 pg of high molecular weight cell-line DNA. In a degradation experiment DNA extracted from bloodstains stored for up to 28 days in a moist chamber and DNA boiled for up to 18 min could be amplified. A duplex PCR with TH01 is proposed.
Japanese Population DNA Typing Data for the Loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and GC
Authors: Watanabe Y , Yamada S , Nagai A , Takayama T , Hirata K , Bunai Y , Ohya I 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Population studies on the five loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and GC (PM loci) were carried out in a sample of 366 unrelated Japanese individuals living in Gifu Prefecture (central region of Japan) using the AmpliType® PM PCR Amplification and Typing kit (Perkin Elmer). For all loci, no significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium could be found in our Japanese population sample. The combined mean exclusion chance and power of discrimination for the PM loci were 0.68 and 0.993, respectively. The Japanese and Chinese population data were similar for the all loci. The Japanese and Korean population data were similar for all loci other than D7S8. Significant differences were observed between the Japanese population data and the 16 other population data compared for 3 loci or more.
Distribution of HLA-DQα and Polymarker (LDLR, GC, GYPA, HBGG, and D7S8) Alleles in Arab and Pakistani Populations Living in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Tahir MA , Caruso J , Budowle B , Aziz N , Novick GE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Randomly collected blood samples from 100 Arabs and 100 Pakistanis residing in Abu Dhabi were analyzed using the HLA-DQα and polymarker (LDLR, GC, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8) PCR based reverse dot blot systems. Allelic frequencies for each allele and observed heterozygosity for each locus were calculated. Departures from Hardy-Weinberg expectations (HWE) were determined using the unbiased estimate of the expected homozygote/heterozygote frequencies, the likelihood ratio test and the exact test. No significant departures from HWE expectations were detected.
HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Allele Frequencies in Two New York City Jewish Populations
Authors: Medintz I , Levine L , McCurdy L , Chiriboga L , Kingston C , Desnick RJ , Eng CM , Kobilinsky L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele and genotype frequencies were determined for the HLA-DQA1 and Amplitype® Polymarker loci (low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), glycophorin A (GYPA), hemoglobin G gammaglobin (HBGG), D7S8, and group-specific component (Gc)) in Hasidic and non-Hasidic Ashkenazi New York City Jewish subpopulations. For all loci tested, except HBGG, the 2 subpopulations meet the assumption of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Comparison of various allele and genotype frequencies for the Hasidic and the non-Hasidic groups showed no significant differences. Comparison of the various allele frequencies in the two subpopulations to another Caucasian group revealed significant differences at the HLA-DQA1 and D7S8 loci in the Hasidic group. These frequency data can be used for comparison to other populations and for frequency estimates in DNA profiling.
Sequential Multiplex Amplification: Utility in Forensic Casework with Minimal Amounts of DNA and Partially Degraded Samples
Authors: Lorente M , Lorente JA , Carlos Alvarez J , Budowle B , Wilson MR , Villanueva E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Since its introduction, PCR has become a widely-used, routine technique in forensic laboratories. A number of PCR protocols that were developed originally are now being replaced by more powerful approaches, particularly those based on multiplex amplification of short tandem repeat (STR) loci.
One alternative form of multiplex PCR amplification, called Sequential Multiplex Amplification (SMA), was designed to amplify a single locus and then recover and reuse the remaining genomic DNA as a template for subsequent PCR. The SMA process could be repeated several times. SMA has proven to be useful in typing genomic DNA contained in stored PCR samples and analyzing samples of limited quality and/or quantity for multiple loci. The efficacy of the use of SMA for actual typing of casework samples permitted typing for a second locus 98.11% of the samples considered; 70.75% were typeable for a third locus, and 16.98% for a fourth locus.
Fixed Bin Population Data for the VNTR Loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D14S13 in a Population Sample from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Moura-Neto RS , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

AbstractFixed bin frequencies for the VNTR loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D14S13 were determined in a Rio de Janeiro sample population. The data were generated by RFLP analysis of HaeIII-digested genomic DNA and chemiluminescent detection. The six VNTR loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and there is no evidence for association of alleles between the VNTR loci. The frequency data can be used in forensic analyses and paternity tests to estimate the frequency of a DNA profile in the general Brazilian population.
Validation of HLA-DR Locus Typing in Forensic Specimens by Combining PCR-SSP with PCR-RFLP
Authors: Ota M , Katsuyama Y , Liu CY , Arakura A , Fukushima H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The applicability of HLA-DR DNA typing combined with PCR-SSP(sequence specific primers) and PCR-RFLP(restriction fragment length polymorphism) to forensic practice was investigated. PCR-SSP was as effective as serological HLA-DR typing in determining DR types. For more precise definition of DRB1 alleles encoding DR2, DR4, and DR8 antigens, which are fairly common in Japan, we used the PCR-RFLP method. For increasing the sensitivity of this system, we used the nested or semi-nested PCR technique. The minimum amount of template DNA needed for typing was 10 ng of genomic DNA in the case of ordinary PCR, whereas 10 pg of DNA was enough in nested and seminested PCR. HLA-DR and-DRB1 alleles were able to be determined from the small amounts of DNA available in forensic materials using the PCR-SSP and subsequent PCR-RFLP methods.
Transillumination Enhances Photographs of Retinal Hemorrhages
Authors: Nolte KB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Light stand photography with direct illumination of the retina is a common method of demonstrating retinal hemorrhages. The lack of contrast between dark hemorrhages and surrounding dark retina, and the difficulty of photographing into the concavity of an eye limit this technique. Transillumination of a bivalved globe with a bright external light source such as a colonoscope or microscope light yields high contrast superior photographs. This technique is useful to document retinal hemorrhages, and provides quality photographs for courtroom demonstrations.
Determination of Phenmetrazine in Urine by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry after Liquid-Liquid Extraction and Derivatization with Perfluorooctanoyl Chloride
Authors: Dasgupta A , Mahle CE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Phenmetrazine is a central nervous system stimulant and is currently used as an anorectic agent. The drug is abused and reported to cause death from overdose. We describe a liquid-liquid extraction protocol for phenmetrazine from urine using 1-chlorobutane and subsequent derivatization using perfluorooctanoyl chloride for gas chromatography-mass spectrometric confirmation. Quantitation of urinary phenmetrazine can be easily achieved by using N-propylamphetamine as an internal standard. The perfluorooctanoyl derivative of phenmetrazine showed a weak molecular ion at m/z 573 and a characteristic strong peak at m/z 467 in the electron ionization mass spectrometry thus aiding unambiguous identification. The perfluorooctanoyl derivative of the internal standard did not show any molecular ion, but showed strong characteristic peaks at m/z 482 and 440. The within run and between run precisions of the assay were 1.7% and 3.2% at a urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 20 µg/mL. The within run and between run precisions were higher (9.4% and 10.8%) at a urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 1.0 µg/mL, which was very close to the detection limit of the assay. The assay was linear for urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 1 to 100 µg/mL with a detection limit of 0.5 µg/mL.
An Unusual Case of Death by Lightning
Authors: Blanco-Pampín JM , Suárez Peñaranda JM , Rico Boquete R , Concheiro Carro L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Lightning-related deaths are relatively uncommon, especially indoors. Some cases, involving unusual circumstances, may be of medicolegal relevance. We report a highly infrequent case of fulguration occurring inside a house in a country area. The deceased, a 55-year-old man, was struck by lightning while he was in his bed. Scene investigation and autopsy findings were equally important in finding out the cause of death. We think that the present case is of interest to forensic pathologists because what occurred might be difficult to clarify.
Coronary Artery Compression by Teflon Pledget Granuloma Following Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Cohle SD , Delavan JW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We describe a massive fatal posterior myocardial infarct resulting from compression of the right coronary artery by a Teflon pledget granuloma in a patient who had undergone aortic valve replacement six months before death. Other iatrogenic causes of coronary artery occlusion or compression are discussed in this paper. To our knowledge this is the first report of this surgical complication.
A Fatality Due to Moclobemide
Authors: Camaris C , Little D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A fatality due to ingestion of the antidepressant drug moclobemide is reported. Moclobemide is a selective and reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type A. Previous reports have suggested that it is a safe drug even when taken in large quantities. The few reported fatalities have all been ascribed to serotonin syndrome, due to an interaction between moclobemide and other serotonergic agents.
A 48-year-old woman with a history of depression and suicide attempts was found deceased at home. Autopsy revealed no evidence of significant natural disease or injury. Toxicologic analysis was performed and drug levels measured by capillary gas chromatography. The blood concentration of moclobemide was 137 mg/L and the liver concentration was 432 mg/kg. Low levels of diazepam, nordiazepam, and trifluoperazine were also detected. Death was considered to be due to acute poisoning by moclobemide. This case report is the first, to our knowledge, where death has been attributed to the toxic effects of moclobemide alone.
Three Cases of Fatal Firearm Use Following External Hinge Removal from Locked Gun Cabinets
Authors: Huston BM , Germaniuk HD , Sidler AK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In order to potentially decrease the number of homicides and suicides that result from firearms, one must decrease the accessibility of guns. We describe three cases that were obtained from the Onondaga County Medical Examiners Office in New York that occurred between January 1990 to March 1993. In two suicides and a double homicide, firearms were quietly obtained from commercially manufactured locked gun cabinets by removing the door hinges, which were located on the outside of the cabinet, with a screwdriver.
The incidence of obtaining firearms by this method is not known. No other similar cases are reported in the literature. Removing hinges that are placed on the outside of the cabinet may be a common method of obtaining firearms to commit either homicide or suicide in the home, but perhaps not recognized. More information is needed. If additional cases are identified, then prevention in terms of gun cabinet design, may save lives in the future.
Review of Interpreting Evidence, Evaluating Forensic Science in the Courtroom
Authors: Hubler JR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Interpreting Evidence describes through logic and probability the interpretation of scientific evidence and how it should be presented in a court of law. It accurately and understandably illustrates the use of forensic evidence in conjunction with the other evidence in a case, rather than as an independent probability or value. The authors support the concept of the forensic scientist working in conjunction with the police and either the prosecution or defense. This would facilitate an understanding of the case as a whole and the alternative explanations or hypothesis for a particular piece of evidence. The book advocates allowing evidence to be expressed as a numerical value rather than in the form of probabilities. The authors describe how this method would apply to transfer evidence (including: fingerprint, glass, fibers, and firearms); blood and DNA; as well as to behavioral and handwriting evidence.
Review of: Levy H “And The Blood Cried out. A Prosecutor's Spell-binding Account of the Power of DNA”
Authors: Wenk RE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Rarely, does a technically accurate work provide a concise (223 page) yet intriguing narrative. Harlan Levy's straightforward account of the introduction of DNA technology into the criminal justice system makes for easy and informative reading. The hard-bound, well-edited, carefully-referenced edition should be a required textbook for students of the law and forensic sciences, but it may well be consumed by those who find pleasure in detective stories. The book has ten chapters that provide details of some very famous and infamous legal cases that arose during the first “DNA decade”. These narratives were selected because defendants were found guilty or innocent on the bases of (or despite) VNTR and/or PCR matching of DNA contained in blood or semen evidence to DNA of the blood of suspects.
Review of Jekyll on Trial (Multiple Personality Disorder and Criminal Law)
Authors: Erlich LB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
At the outset of this review, you should know that I have a bias. This book was written by a law professor and a psychologist and I am a forensic psychiatrist. As a psychiatrist, my focus is on the biological and biochemical nature of mental illness. As a forensic psychiatrist I am focused on if not obsessed by the source of the subject of evaluation and the reason why he is in the evaluator's office. Neither of these issues are dealt with in this book.
Injuries Due to Letter Bombs
Authors: Missliwetz J , Schneider B , Oppenheim H , Wieser I 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In Austria in late 1993 ten letter bombs were sent to outstanding persons who have been engaged in the care of foreigners. Four of these bombs detonated, when they were opened by the addressee. The remaining six bombs were discovered in time and could be deactivated by specialists. The construction of these bombs and the lesions sustained by the four victims will be discussed. The injuries mainly concerned the left hand, i.e., the hand used by right-handed persons to hold a letter when opening it. The way holding the letter was of crucial influence on the degree of injury, as with the same explosive charge (which can be assumed deducing from the investigation of the deactivated bombs) injuries varied considerably. They ranged from minor tissue-lesions to mutilated fingers and the risk of exsanguination.
Detection of Firearms Imprints on Hands of Suspects: Study of the PDT-Based Field Test
Authors: Almog J , Glattstein B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The results of a multifaceted research project towards the optimization of the visualization process of firearms contact marks on hands are reported. Latent imprints that are formed by the close contact between the metallic parts of the weapons and the palms were visualized by the application of the PDT iron (II) reagent. Various factors affecting the quality of the marks were studied. Also PDT analogues were synthesized and their performance compared with that of the original compound.
Some of the analogues show slight advantages over PDT in contrast and sensitivity, but PDT in acetone solution, such as in the commercial preparations Ferroprint or Ferrotrace seems to be the formulation of choice for reasons of availability and cost. It can visualize latent firearms impressions on the hands several hours after the contact.
Lipid-Specific Latent Fingerprint Detection: Fingerprints on Currency
Authors: Allred CE , Lin T , Menzel ER 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We describe a lipid-specific lanthanide-based method of latent fingerprint detection, specifically its application to fingerprints on currency. In the counterfeiting context, the method allows one to distinguish between fingerprints placed on the paper before and after the ink deposition.
Separation and Comparison of Fountain Pen Inks by Capillary Zone Electrophoresis
Authors: Rohde E , McManus AC , Vogt C , Heineman WR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The analysis of inks as part of the detection of fraudulent documents is a small but important part in the operation of a forensic laboratory. Apart from optical methods, multiple thin layer chromatography (TLC) is used to separate, compare and distinguish inks based on their dye composition.
Capillary electrophoresis (CE), a relatively young separation technique with very high resolution power, was used for the analysis of water soluble fountain pen inks. Inks are complex mixtures of synthetic organic and inorganic dyes, surfactants, resins and other components. The study focused on the optimization of the separation of 10% aqueous solutions of commercially available inks with respect to resolution and analysis time. During the method development process different buffers, organic modifiers and surfactants were tested. Good results were obtained with a 100 mM borate buffer at pH 8.0 containing 20% methanol. The separations were reproducible and led to baseline resolution of almost all components of blue and black fountain pen inks. Electropherograms of 15 inks of various manufacturers and countries of origin showed patterns which were in the most cases distinctly different from each other. Initial studies of the separation of extracts of inks from paper were successful and are reported here as well. Therefore, it was concluded that CE is a powerful tool for the identification of water soluble writing inks.
A Study to Investigate the Feasibility of Using X-Ray Fluorescence Microanalysis to Improve Discrimination Between Colorless Synthetic Fibers
Authors: Cartier J , Roux C , Grieve M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of X-ray fluorescence microanalysis was investigated to determine if it would allow further discrimination between samples of colorless acrylic and polyester fibers which were indistinguishable using brightfield, fluorescence and FTIR-microscopy. The aim was to determine if this technique could be successfully applied to single fibers of relatively fine titer and whether it would be beneficial to include it into the existing sequence of techniques used to compare colorless fibers. The extent of intra-garment variation and the possible effects of tape and mounting media residues on the elemental analysis were also investigated. The results confirmed the high value of fluorescence microscopy within the existing examination sequence and showed that single fiber analysis using X-ray fluorescence microanalysis is not only feasible, but improved the discriminating power between such colorless samples by about 50%.
More on the Uniqueness of Gunshot Residue (GSR) Particles
Authors: Zeichner A , Levin N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The question of “accepted uniqueness” of several types of GSR particles is discussed. Based on our experience, we propose to include GSR particles formed in firing the Sellier Bellot, Prague (SBP) ammunition in the group of “unique” GSR particles. With the advent of autosearch systems for GSR analysis in crime labs, a better statistical basis for the extent of uniqueness of various types of GSR particles may be achieved.