bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Examination of Line Crossings by Low KV Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Using Photographic Stereoscopic Pairs
Authors: Blueschke A , Lacis A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An update on the examination of the sequence of crossed lines, specifically, between ball point pen strokes (waterfast glycol and aqueous based inks) and faint typewritten impressions (produced by old, poor quality fabric ribbon), utilizing a contemporary Hitachi S-2500 SEM and photographic stereoscopic pairs.
Using Multiplex PCR Amplification and Typing Kits for the Analysis of DNA Evidence in a Serial Killer Case
Authors: Hochmeister MN , Budowle B , Eisenberg A , Borer UV , Dirnhofer R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Analysis of DNA evidence in a serial killer case was performed using the AmpliType® HLA-DQ alpha-, AmpliType® PM-, and the GenePrint™ STR Multiplex System PCR Amplification Kits. In addition, a sex typing procedure using the X-Y homologous gene amelogenin was carried out. DNA profiles from a single hair with attached sheath material, recovered from underneath the seat cover of the suspect's car seat were compared with DNA profiles derived from reference head hairs from a homicide victim. From the evidentiary sample only 9 ng of human DNA could be recovered. In a sample, where the quantity of DNA becomes a critical issue a powerful route is the simultaneous amplification of several loci (multiplex PCR). This is the first report where commercially available multiplex PCR amplification and typing kits have been introduced for the analysis of DNA evidence in a serial killer case and the analysis has been admitted in court.
Fatal Methemoglobinemia Caused by Liniment Solutions Containing Sodium Nitrite
Authors: Saito T , Takeichi S , Yukawa N , Osawa M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We describe a case of fatal methemoglobinemia (MetHb-emia) resulting from application of liniment solution containing large quantities of sodium nitrite. As a remedial treatment of atopic dermatitis, the liniment solution was applied all over the boy's body. Autopsy findings showed no significant macroscopic or microscopic findings except blood tinted chocolate brown color and chronic atopic dermatitis over the whole surface of the body. Quantitation of the methemoglobin (MetHb) in the blood was performed using spectrophotometer; MetHb concentration of the blood was 76%. Ion chromatographic determination revealed a nitrite concentration of 1 mg/L in the serum. Such a liniment solution is not authorized by the Ministry of Public Welfare.
Infrared Spectra of U.S. Automobile Original Topcoats (1974–1989): II. Identification of Some Topcoat Inorganic Pigments Using an Extended Range (4000-220 cm−1) Fourier Transform Spectrometer
Authors: Suzuki EM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A number of strong unidentified absorptions were observed in infrared spectra of some U.S. automobile original topcoats (1974–1989) from the Reference Collection of Automotive Paints. Most of these absorptions appeared to arise from specific color-imparting pigments, but with the exception of ferric oxide (Fe2O3), talc, and diatomaceous silica, they could not be attributed to any pigments previously identified in automobile paint using infrared spectroscopy. All of those previously identified, however, were pigments used in undercoats. This paper describes the infrared identification of several inorganic pigments used in automobile topcoats. Lead chromate pigments, which were found in many Reference Collection yellow, orange, and red nonmetallic topcoats, are no longer used in U.S. original finishes. Their presence can thus serve as both a means to differentiate between topcoats and provide some indication of when certain topcoats may have been produced. The far-infrared region below 700 cm−1, which cannot be observed when using a narrowband mercury cadmium telluride (MCT) detector, was found to be important for the analysis of topcoats containing certain pigments.
Mortality from Hurricane Andrew
Authors: Lew EO , Wetli CV 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Hurricane Andrew, a category 4 storm, made landfall in South Florida on August 24, 1992, and caused extensive structural and environmental damage. The Dade County Medical Examiner Department investigated 15 deaths directly related to the storm and another 15 natural deaths indirectly related to the storm. The aftermath of the hurricane continued to create circumstances that lead to 32 accidental deaths, five suicides, and four homicides over the next six months. Traffic fatalities due to uncontrolled intersections accounted for one-third of the post-storm accidental deaths. Dyadic deaths (homicide-suicide) doubled in rate for the six months following the storm. The limited number of direct hurricane deaths is attributed to advance storm warnings, its occurrence on a weekend, the storm's passage through less populated areas of the county, and the relatively modest amount of accompanying rainfall.
Toxic Metals in Selected Traditional Chinese Medicinals
Authors: Espinoza EO , Mann MJ , Bleasdell B , DeKorte S , Cox M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An examination of traditional Chinese medicine preparations that purport to contain endangered-species products revealed the presence of inorganic forms of mercury and arsenic. We analyzed 12 types of commercially produced herbal ball preparations (n = 85) using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Mercury levels ranged from 7.8 to 621.3 milligrams and arsenic levels ranged from 0.1 to 36.6 milligrams per ball. The recommended adult dose for these preparations is two balls daily. At this dose the maximum elemental intake per day is up to 73.2 milligrams of arsenic and 1.2 grams of mercury. While arsenic poisoning is usually associated with foul play, and mercury poisoning is usually associated with environmental contamination, forensic scientists should be aware that these elements may be consumed in connection with cultural and lifestyle preferences.
Stability and Spontaneous Production of Blood Cyanide During Heating
Authors: Seto Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To investigate the effects of heat on blood cyanide concentrations, in vitro experiments were performed using a headspace gas chromatographic method. Cyanide concentrations were determined for solutions of human hemoglobin (Hb) at neutrality, and for blood which was sealed in a vial and incubated at 25, 50, 63, 75 and 90°C for 1 h. Spontaneous cyanide production was also measured. Nearly all of the added cyanide was recovered in both the Hb and for blood samples which were heated below 63°C. Cyanide recovery in Hb decreased in a temperature-dependent manner at temperatures above 75°C, and more than half of the recovered cyanide was found to be in the free form. In contrast, cyanide in blood disappeared more rapidly, and a major portion of it existed in the bound form. Cyanide concentrations in Hb solutions which were heated at 90°C dropped in the two phases; a rapid initial phase, followed by a slower process. Spontaneous cyanide production was observed at temperatures above 50°C for Hb and above 63°C for blood. Under optimal conditions (75°C heating), about 0.2 mmol of cyanide was produced per mol heme of Hb.
DNA Profiling in Two Alaskan Native Populations Using HLA-DQA1, PM, and D1S80 Loci
Authors: Walkinshaw M , Strickland L , Hamilton H , Denning K , Gayley T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two Native Alaskan populations were sampled and DNA profiles were generated for 201 individuals. Ninety two blood samples were collected from the North Slope Borough region of Alaska and the remaining 109 blood samples came from Native Alaskans in the Bethel and Wade Hampton areas. Allele and genotype frequencies were established for the HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, and D1S80 loci. Native Alaskans are slightly less polymorphic than Caucasians at the HLA-DQA1 locus. In contrast, the PM loci appear to be nearly as informative in the Native Alaskan populations as in Caucasians for identity testing. The data clearly demonstrate that all the loci tested are highly informative for the Alaskan populations and fall well within Hardy-Weinberg expectations. There is little evidence for departure from expectation of independence of alleles across loci. The data demonstrate that estimates of multiple locus profile frequencies can be obtained from Native Alaskan populations using the product rule under the assumption of independence of loci. In addition, Native Alaskan databases were more similar to each other and to other Native American databases than they were to U.S. Caucasians and African Americans.
The Ninhydrin Process in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Hewlett DF , Winfield PGR , Clifford AA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Ninhydrin is a widely used reagent for the development of latent fingerprints on porous surfaces. For the past 20 years 1,1,2-trichlorotrifluoroethane (CFC113) has been used as the solvent of choice in the UK for ninhydrin because of its non-toxicity and non-flammability. With the phasing out of CFC solvents under the terms of the Montreal Protocol on the Control of Ozone Depleting Substances, the need for a suitable replacement has arisen. Supercritical CO2 has been found to be a potential replacement for CFC113 in the ninhydrin process. Furthermore, the present processes are two-stage (impregnation of reagent followed by development in an oven), whereas using supercritical CO2 development of fingerprints can be carried out in one stage.
PCR-Based Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) DQα Typing of Blood Stained Light and Dark Blue Denim Fabric
Authors: Del Rio SA , Marino MA , Belgrader P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Obtaining typable PCR products from DNA purified from blood stained blue denim has been difficult since inhibitors of PCR in blue denim apparently co-purify with the DNA. Organic and chelex extraction methods were tested for their ability to purify typable DNA from either light or dark blue denim fabric both stained with blood. DNA purified from the light blue denim using either method was successfully used in obtaining correct HLA-DQα typing results. The chelex, but not the organic, procedure was able to yield typable DNA when the dark blue denim was the substrate. Therefore, the chelex method may be more effective than the organic method in preventing compounds that inhibit PCR from co-purifying with the DNA.
Drug and Alcohol Use in Fatally Injured Drivers in Washington State
Authors: Logan BK , Schwilke EW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood and/or urine from fatally injured drivers in Washington State were collected and tested for the presence of drugs and alcohol. Drug and/or alcohol use was a factor in 52% of all fatalities. Among single vehicle accidents, alcohol use was a factor in 61% of cases versus 30% for multiple vehicle accidents. Drugs most commonly encountered were marijuana (11%), cocaine (3%), amphetamines (2%), together with a variety of depressant prescription medications. Trends noted included an association of depressant use with higher blood alcohol levels, while marijuana use was associated with lower blood alcohol levels. Marijuana use was noted to be most prominent in the 15–30 year age group, stimulant use in the 21–40 year old group, and prescription depressant use was more prevelant in the 45+ age group. Drug use demographics in this population are consistent with those noted in other jurisdictions.
Facial Casting as a Method to Help Identify Severely Disfigured Corpses
Authors: Quatrehomme G , Garidel Y , Grévin G , Liao Z , Boublenza A , Ollier A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The authors apply a previously reported method for facial casting of severely disfigured corpses, which allowed a three-dimensional cast to be made. This method involved several stages: face restoration, casting by elastomer, then three-dimensional positive image building. This technique seems to be useful in all cases of severe disfiguration of the face, particularly by trauma.
Unexpected Deaths Due to Colloid Cysts of the Third Ventricle
Authors: Filkins JA , Cohle S , Levy BK , Graham M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Colloid cysts of the third ventricle are rare central nervous system tumors that are a recognized cause of unexpected death in young, otherwise healthy adults and children. We report three adults and one child who died from colloid cysts of the third ventricle. Our report illustrates the difficulties of diagnosing these tumors premortem.
The Detection of a Metabolite of α-Benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine Synthesis in a Mixed Drug Fatality Involving Methamphetamine
Authors: Moore KA , Daniel JS , Fierro M , Mozayani A , Poklis A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 37-year-old, white male collapsed at his home following a party. He reportedly had a history of unspecified cardiac arrhythmia. The ambulance crew found him unresponsive and an ECG revealed ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation. Following one hour of resuscitative efforts in the ambulance and emergency room of a local hospital, he was pronounced dead. An antemortem urine toxicology screen performed at the hospital was “positive” for benzodiazepines, cocaine and amphetamine/methamphetamine. At autopsy, there was generalized organ congestion with no evidence of trauma or other significant pathology except mild, left ventricular hypertrophy. Quantitation by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) of methamphetamine in bile, blood, urine and gastric contents yielded 21.7, 0.7, 32.0 and 2.9 mg/L, respectively. Liver and brain contained 2.2 and 2.7 mg/kg, respectively. A trace amount of p-OH-α-benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine (p-OH-BNMPA), a metabolite of α-benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine (BNMPA), an impurity of illicit methamphetamine synthesis, was also detected in the urine. Since these impurities can be characteristic of a particular synthetic method, their presence in seized samples or their detection in biological samples from methamphetamine users can further be used to monitor the sales of precursor chemicals, group seized compounds to common sources of illicit production or provide links between manufacturers, dealers and users.
Handbook of Electrical Hazards and Accidents
Authors: Goodson ME 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This reviewer was very excited when news of the upcoming book by Mr. Geddes was released. There has been a need in the forensic community for a good treatise on electrical accidents and deaths, and certainly the author is qualified to write in this area. After reading this text, this reviewer is of the opinion that this book will have some value to the forensic practitioner, but that it is not the ideal text for either the pathologist or the engineer investigating electrical injuries or deaths.
Chemiluminescent Detection of RFLP Patterns in Forensic DNA Analysis
Authors: Johnson ED , Kotowski TM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
DNA testing by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis is an extremely important technique used in forensic science laboratories. While RFLP testing is a highly informative method, it traditionally has had several disadvantages. It is time consuming and involves work with radioactive phosphorous. A detection method that is faster and safer than isotopic detection is presented. Various membranes, fixation methods and transfer procedures were evaluated for DNA retention and sensitivity using alkaline phosphatase conjugated oligonucleotide probes and a chemiluminescent substrate. Blood samples and evidentiary material from forensic casework were analyzed by both chemiluminescent and isotopic detection. Results of each method were compared for pattern appearance, band size, and composite profile frequency. The chemiluminescent system had very good sensitivity, detecting 3–25 ng K562 DNA. Most patterns developed by both methods appeared the same. The variation observed between band sizes and frequency estimates generated by each method was as expected for an inter-gel comparison. The chemiluminescent detection procedure described here is suitable for use in forensic casework.
Extent of Heterogeneity in Mitochondrial DNA of Ethnic Asian Populations
Authors: Melton T , Stoneking M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Variation in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region as detected by sequence-specific oligonucleotide (SSO) probes is described for 993 individuals in 11 ethnic Asian populations. Estimates of diversity for mtDNA types exceed 0.94 in all populations, while 53% of the 255 types that were observed occur only once. Of 96 shared types, four occur at frequencies of greater than 10% but less than 17% in any one population. There is statistically significant heterogeneity among these 11 populations, however, an analysis of variance incorporating genetic distances between types shows that at least 95% of the variation present in the total sample is attributable to within-population diversity, while only 5% is due to between-population differences. Overall, heterogeneity with respect to mtDNA SSO types is grossly correlated with geographic distance between populations; the most extreme heterogeneity was observed between populations from East Asia and populations from West Asia. With respect to population genetics, the control region of mtDNA exhibits satisfactory qualities as a DNA typing locus.
Evaluating DNA Profile Evidence When the Suspect Is Identified Through a Database Search
Authors: Balding DJ , Donnelly P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The paper is concerned with the strength of DNA evidence when a suspect is identified via a search through a database of the DNA profiles of known individuals. Consideration of the appropriate likelihood ratio shows that in this setting the DNA evidence is (slightly) stronger than when a suspect is identified by other means, subsequently profiled, and found to match. The recommendation of the 1992 report of the US National Research Council that DNA evidence that is used to identify the suspect should not be presented at trial thus seems unnecessarily conservative. The widely held view that DNA evidence is weaker when it results from a database search seems to be based on a rationale that leads to absured conclusions in some examples. Moreover, this view is inconsistent with the principle, which enjoys substantial support, that evidential weight should be measured by likelihood ratios. The strength of DNA evidence is shown also to be slightly increased for other forms of search procedure. While the DNA evidence is stronger after a database search, the overall case against the suspect may not be, and the problems of incorporating the DNA with the non-DNA evidence can be particularly important in such cases.
Identification of N-Acetylmethamphetamine in a Sample of Illicitly Synthesized Methamphetamine
Authors: Conn C , Dawson M , Baker AT , Keegan J , Fryirs B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Analysis of illicit methamphetamine samples revealed the presence of a hitherto unreported impurity. This was identified as N-acetylmethamphetamine by synthesis and GC-MS. This impurity is believed to arise by transesterification of methamphetamine during reflux with propyl acetate. Other circumstantial evidence and intelligence data indicate that propyl acetate was used to increase yields of methamphetamine hydrochloride by azeotropic removal of water remaining after salt formation with aqueous hydrochloric acid.
Disturbances in the Soil: Finding Buried Bodies and Other Evidence Using Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Miller PS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is an efficient and effective means to search for buried evidence, whether it be a clandestine grave, formal burial, or certain missing articles from a crime scene. The procedures for GPR used by the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii (CILHI), are the result of several years of experimentation on a variety of ground surfaces in Hawaii, Southeast Asia and the mainland U.S. This remote sensing method does not usually provide direct information that there is a body or other specific object beneath the ground. Most of the time the GPR has been used to determine where a target object is not located. The key feature of GPR is that it can detect recent changes in shallow soil conditions caused by the disturbance of soil and the intrusion of different material.
Using the methods described here, the investigator should be able to determine the precise metric grid coordinates for a subsurface disturbance, as well as the approximate size, the general shape, and the depth of the buried material. Success will vary with soil conditions. The conditions suitable or not practical for using GPR are summarized. This remote sensing technology can have wider use in crime scene investigations due to the recent introduction of more user-friendly software and more portable hardware.
Genetic Polymorphism of the Inter-Alpha-Trypsin Inhibitor (ITI) in Cádiz Province, Southern Spain
Authors: Palanco JLR , Morales RR , Rojas MAV , Lucas JJG , Martinez MIA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The results of a study of Inter-Alpha-Trypsin Inhibitor (ITI) polymorphism in 281 blood samples are reported in this paper. These samples were taken from healthy individuals of both sexes, unrelated and resident in the Province of Cadiz. The frequency of ITI*1 was 0.617 and of ITI*2 was 0.383. The probability of exclusion in paternity testing was 0.18.
Hungarian Population Data on Seven PCR-Based Loci
Authors: Budowle B , Woller J , Koons BW , Furedi S , Errera JD , Padar Z 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Hungarian population data for the loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, HLA-DQA1, and D1S80 were generated. The genotype frequency distributions for the loci do not deviate from Hardy Weinberg expectations. Furthermore, there was little evidence for departures from expectations of independence between the loci. Using a test for homogeneity all the loci were similar between two Hungarian population samples and only the HLA-DQA1 locus was statistically different between Hungarians and US Caucasians. There generally would be little forensic differences, whether a Hungarian or a US Caucasian database was used, for estimating multiple locus profile frequencies for the seven PCR-based loci.
Hair and Fiber Transfer in an Abduction Case—Evidence from Different Levels of Trace Evidence Transfer
Authors: Taupin JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Levels of trace evidence transfer were examined in a casework context. A girl was allegedly abducted in a car and rape attempted by the accused, who denied any contact with the victim. Clothing worn by the victim and the accused, and the covers from the front seats of the car, were analyzed for trace evidence. Three types of corresponding fibers and four possible pathways of transfer were identified. Synthetic fibers similar to those composing the car seat covers were located on the victim's clothing, consistent with direct transfer. Secondary transfer was indicated by dyed brown human head-type hairs (possibly originating from the accused's wife) located on the seat covers and on the victim's clothing. Secondary and possibly tertiary transfer was indicated by pink synthetic material and associated fibers (possibly originating from the victim's mother) located on the victim's clothing, a car seat cover and the accused's clothing. Light microscopy, comparison microscopy, and cross-sectioning techniques were used. The multiple fiber matches and the differing pathways and levels of transfer increased the strength of the association between the accused and the victim. After the fiber evidence was led at the trial, the accused pleaded guilty, thereby affirming the value of secondary transfer evidence.
The Recovery of Seminal Components and DNA from the Vagina of a Homicide Victim 34 Days Postmortem
Authors: Montagna CP 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The body of an 18-year-old female was discovered in a gravel pit in Northern Maine. Investigation determined the body to be that of a woman who had disappeared from the Bangor, Maine area 34 days earlier. Laboratory examination revealed the presence of intact spermatozoa, P30 and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) typable DNA on a vaginal swab and smear slide collected at autopsy.