bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Threatening and Otherwise Inappropriate Letters to Members of the United States Congress
Authors: Dietz PE , Matthews DB , Martell DA , Stewart TM , Hrouda DR , Warren J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The authors examine the characteristics of threatening and otherwise inappropriate communications sent to members of the U.S. Congress by a sample of 86 subjects, 20 of whom threatened assassination. We quote excerpts from these letters and provide quantitative data on such variables as the volume, duration, form, and appearance of such communications; the enclosures; the subjects' perceived relationships to the recipients; the thematic content of the communications; and the messages and threats communicated. Comparisons between 43 subjects who pursued encounters with members of Congress and 43 who did not revealed 17 factors associated with such pursuit. In this population, threateners were significantly less likely to pursue an encounter than inappropriate letter writers who did not threaten, regardless of the type of threat or the harm threatened. Inappropriate letters to members of Congress are compared with those directed to Hollywood celebrities. Mentally disordered persons writing to public figures often mention and sometimes threaten public figures other than those to whom the letters are addressed, which raises important issues regarding notification of endangered third parties and the sharing of information among protective agencies.
Toxicological Analysis of a Fatal Baclofen (Lioresal) Ingestion
Authors: Fraser AD , MacNeil W , Isner AF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A fatality following ingestion of the drug baclofen (Lioresal®) is described. Baclofen was identified in urine by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. After derivatization with trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid, baclofen was quantitated in serum and urine by high-performance liquid chromatography. The concentration of baclofen was 17 mg/L in serum and 760 mg/L in urine collected approximately 12 h after the overdose. To our knowledge, this is only the second reported fatality involving a baclofen overdose. The previous case did not include quantitation of baclofen in any biological fluid.
Cocaine in Decomposed Human Remains
Authors: Manhoff DT , Hood I , Caputo F , Perry J , Rosen S , Mirchandani HG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
From March 1988 through March 1990, at the Philadelphia Medical Examiner's Office toxicology laboratory, samples from 77 decomposed human bodies were tested for the presence of cocaine, employing gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The material analyzed included decomposed soft tissue, bloody decomposition fluid, mummified tissue, maggots, and beetle feces. Twenty-two cases (28.6%) were positive for cocaine, many of these cases in states of advanced decomposition. These findings indicate the usefulness of testing decomposed tissue for cocaine in all cases where its presence is suspected. This is contrary to what might be expected, since cocaine is generally labile and rapidly broken down by both enzymatic and nonenzymatic mechanisms.
Ricochet Dynamics for the Nine-Millimetre Parabellum Bullet
Authors: Gold RE , Schecter B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The presence of extraneous markings on a fired bullet that has ricocheted off water depends on the angle of incidence of the bullet to the water and the depth of the water. An Uzi submachine gun, held in a machine rest, was fired into a large container of water at various controlled angles. The angle of incidence and the angle of departure of the bullet from the water were measured. The critical angle of ricochet, the depth of penetration, and the path of the bullet in the water were measured. The measured critical angle of ricochet of a 9-mm parabellum bullet fired from the above weapon was 6.5°. The maximum depth of penetration into the water during ricochet was found to be 22 mm. The maximum track length in the water was 62 cm.
Signatures—Review and a New View
Authors: Hilton O 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper discusses briefly the automatic signature, as written by many writers, and its elements: movement, form, and variation. It considers the “true signature,” the model stored in the writer's brain that produces the automatic signature.
It discusses an aspect of signature writing that is not fully treated in other sources. This is the original or earlier signature style, which has been modified into the present model. For all current purposes, it is no longer used but may well be recalled, in whole or part, by some writers when signing nonroutine, special signatures, such as wills or important contracts. With a few writers, it is retained as a second signature and used from time to time. Can such a former signature be part of a more recently executed signature after it appears to have been completely abandoned? How can we determine whether an abnormal signature actually contains parts of the previous signature style, and can we be sure that this is what has occurred? There are somewhat rare cases in which these considerations come into play.
Identification of Photocopiers from Fusing Roller Defects
Authors: James Gerhart F 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A sampling of 27 photocopiers using the indirect electrostatic process were examined for fusing roller damage of significance to the document examiner. Distinctive indentation patterns were present on some copies produced, which were sufficient for identification and for establishing that the copies had been in physical contact with the copiers. The frequency and nature of the fusing roller defects observed is described.
Reconstruction of Root Morphology in Skeletonized Remains with Postmortem Dental Loss
Authors: Smith BC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A reversible technique is presented in which the root morphology of missing teeth in skeletonized human remains can be reconstructed for the purpose of radiographic comparison and postmortem identification. In this technique, which is based upon pilot studies with skeletonized mandibles of archival remains, the alveolar socket walls are sealed with a coat of cyanoacrylate cement and injected with a mixture of vinyl polysiloxane and barium sulfate. Radiographs are produced with the radiopaque mixture in place, which highlights the antemortem morphology of the roots. Subsequently, the impression materials is removed, resulting in no gross alteration of the evidence. The radiographs made with this technique, as well as the impressions, can be stored for later use at a trial or pending the discovery of antemortem dental evidence.
Fire and Suicide: A Three-Year Study of Self-Immolation Deaths
Authors: Shkrum MJ , Johnston KA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Thirty-two self-immolation deaths by fire, representing about 1% of suicides, occurred in the province of Ontario (population 9 million), Canada, from 1986 through 1988. The victims, mostly male (male/female ratio, 26:6), were between 21 and 71 years old (mean age, 38 years). Although the scene of self-immolation was usually familiar to the deceased, some chose remote locations. Eleven were found dead in motor vehicles. An accelerant, usually gasoline, was used in most cases. Many of these individuals had, at some time, indicated their intent to commit suicide, a few by self-immolation, but only about half had a diagnosed psychiatric illness. Most of the victims had a reason to kill themselves, but the factors that motivated them to chose self-immolation by fire were uncertain. Fourteen individuals died in hospitals from severe burn complications. The remainder were found dead at the scene. The postmortem findings of soot in the airway and elevated carbon monoxide in the blood of most of these victims [the carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) concentration was in one case &lt; 10%, in ten cases ≥ 10 to 50%, and in seven cases &gt; 50%] were helpful in determining that the individuals were not only alive at the time of the fire but also that a significant number died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning. The highest levels of carbon monoxide were observed in victims discovered in motor vehicles.
Evaluation of Four Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Extraction Protocols for DNA Yield and Variation in Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) Sizes Under Varying Gel Conditions
Authors: Laber TL , O'Connor JM , Iverson JT , Liberty JA , Bergman DL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study originated from discussions and recommendations of the Technical Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (TWGDAM). Four bloodstain deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extraction protocols and five semen stain DNA extraction protocols were evaluated. Nine laboratories participated in the extraction of DNA from 20 bloodstains and 20 semen stains using each protocol. All blood and semen stains originated from a single donor and were prepared under uniform conditions to permit the direct comparison of DNA yields and restriction fragment lengths. The extracted DNA from approximately 600 bloodstains and 700 semen stains was quantified by yield gel analysis and a slot blot hybridization technique. The extracted DNA was digested and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) patterns were generated using three single-locus probes. The RFLP sizing data produced from the blood and semen stains were evaluated with respect to (1) DNA extraction method, (2) gel length, (3) agarose type, (4) presence or absence of ethidium bromide in the gel, and (5) fragment sizes obtained from DNA isolated directly from the donor's liquid blood. This study demonstrates conclusively that high-molecular-weight DNA can be isolated using either organic or nonorganic DNA extraction protocols and that the resulting RFLP sizes are highly reproducible regardless of gel length, agarose type, or presence/absence of ethidium bromide.
Electrocution: A Review of 155 Cases with Emphasis on Human Factors
Authors: Mellen PF , Weedn VW , Kao G , Mellen PF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A total of 155 cases of electrocution were investigated to determine the role of human factors, such as carelessness and intoxication, as contributions. The cases were retrieved by computer conding from the repository of the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, covering the period 1955–1988. The cases are predominantly of military origin. Cases were divided into low-voltage electrocution (N = 47), high-voltage electrocution (N = 79), lightning strikes (N = 16), and unclassified (N = 13). For each group, data is presented on the circumstances of the incident and the pathologic and toxicologic findings. Blatant carelessness, misuse or improper maintenance of equipment, and intoxication are analyzed as contributory factors.
Creatinine Analysis in Single Collection Urine Specimens
Authors: Needleman SB , Porvaznik M , Ander D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Controlled and uncontrolled fluid intake studies were conducted on series of volunteers over the 6 or 12 h of the study periods. Urine specimens were obtained from each subject randomly or at specified times relative to fluid ingestion. Creatinine analysis performed by a modification of the Abbott TDx procedure demonstrates that the values obtained from single collection specimens fall almost in the same range as the values from 24 h pooled collection specimens. The creatinine concentration can be used to indicate possible adulteration of urine specimens by dilution as a means of avoiding detection of use of drugs of abuse.
Between 4 and 7 h are required for a decrease in creatinine concentration to about 100 mg/dL from an initial mean of about 170 mg/dL. A minimum of 6 h is needed for any creatinine value to fall to 50 mg/dL or less. Thus, it appears that creatinine output is sensitive to the amount of fluid ingested, but the relationship is neither linear nor immediate.
The absence of a significant creatinine concentration in a specimen can be used as an indication of direct or indirect adulteration of the urine specimen by dilution or replacement with water. At NDSL-Great Lakes, a decline of the creatinine concentration to 30 mg/dL is used as a cutoff for differentiating between urine specimens that might have been tampered with to avoid detection of drug use and those specimens that are dilute for other reasons. Values at 10 mg/dL or less are suggestive of replacement by water. The information is provided to local commands for investigation prior to initiation of punitive action by the command.
Estimation of Adult Stature from Fragmentary Tibias
Authors: Holland TD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
LInear-regression equations derived from measurements of tibial condyles from 100 individuals in the Hamann-Todd Collection retrodicted known stature with a level of confidence comparable to many of the existing stature-estimation techniques. Statures of an independent control group were estimated with similar success. The strong linear relationship that exists between the length of the tibia and the size of the condyles allows adult stature (of American whites and blacks) to be estimated from the proximal tibia. Since complete tibial length is not required, this technique could prove useful in forensic science and archaeological cases where less-than-intact elements are recovered.
Modification of the Trotter and Gleser Female Stature Estimation Formulae
Authors: Jantz RL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Stature-estimation formulae in common use are those of Trotter and Gleser. Their formulae for females are based on Terry collection skeletons. These skeletons are from people who died in the early 1900s. Because there has been considerable change in body size since then, it is possible that the Trotter and Gleser formulae are inappropriate for modern forensic-science application. The Trotter and Gleser female formulae are tested using data from the Forensic Data Bank at the University of Tennessee. For whites, the femur and tibia yield stature estimates differing from one another by about 3 cm. Using femur and tibia lengths from modern forensic cases and modern height data from anthropometric surveys, new regression intercepts are calculated for Trotter and Gleser's female formulae. The new intercepts improve the performance of the formulae on modern individuals. The Trotter and Gleser formulae for black females require no adjustment. Both blacks and whites have experienced a secular increase in bone length, but whites have experienced a change in proportions as well.
The Origin of Alkenes in Illicit Amphetamine: An Examination of the Illicit Synthesis of Phenyl-2-Propanone
Authors: Forbes IJ , Paul Kirkbride K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The acylative decarboxylation reaction of phenylacetic acid, a method used in clandestine laboratories for the synthesis of phenyl-2-propanone, has been examined. It has been demonstrated that this reaction is accompanied by side-reactions that produce characteristic neutral compounds, some of these are cis and trans 1,3-diphenyl-2-methylpropene and the enol acetates derived from dibenzylketone and phenyl-2-propanone. It would be difficult for an unskilled chemist to separate these neutral substances from phenyl-2-propanone, therefore illicit phenyl-2-propanone is likely to be an impure product. The use of crude phenyl-2-propanone in reductive amination reactions aimed at amphetamine production gives rise to a complex mixture of amines and characteristic neutral compounds.
The likely origins of N-acetylamphetamine and amphetamine benzaldimine are also discussed.
Toxicologic Findings in the USS Iowa Disaster
Authors: Mayes R , Levine B , Smith ML , Wagner GN , Froede R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The toxicologic results from the 47 victims of the explosion on the USS Iowa are presented. Good correlation between carboxyhemoglobin saturations and cause of death was found. There were no correlations between blood cyanide concentrations and causes of death. Volatile analysis suggested postmortem ethanol production rather than antemortem ethanol ingestion. No drugs except nicotine were detected in any of the victims.
The Elimination Rate of Mouth Alcohol: Mathematical Modeling and Implications in Breath Alcohol Analysis
Authors: Gullberg RG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Mouth alcohol, if present in high enough concentrations, can falsely bias the accurate measurement of end-expiratory breath alcohol. Mouth alcohol will be eliminated over time, however, and can be modeled with a single term decaying exponential of the form: B0e−kt + C. It is important, however, to determine the model and its parameters when alcohol is already present within the biologic system. Using three individuals as their own controls, mouth alcohol was administered both before and after alcohol consumption followed by breath alcohol analysis performed at approximately 0.5 min intervals. The results showed that both model parameters (B0 and k) are effected and that the asymptotic value (C) is reached much sooner when alcohol already exists in the end-expiratory breath. Considering only three individuals were involved, the forensic-science importance appears to be that, as the end-expiratory breath alcohol concentration increases, the time necessary for the mouth alcohol to decrease to unbiased levels is decreased. Fifteen min of observation time prior to breath alcohol analysis appears to be more than adequate at forensically relevant concentrations.
A Simple Technique for Age Estimation in Adult Corpses: The Two Criteria Dental Method
Authors: Lamendin H , Baccino E , Humbert JF , Tavernier JC , Nossintchouk RM , Zerilli A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for age determination of adults from single rooted teeth is presented. It is based on the measurement of two dental features: periodontosis height times 100/root height (P) and transparency of the root height times 100/root height (T). These measurements are made on the labial surface of the entire tooth without section and do not require special equipment or training. The application of multiple regression analysis to a working sample of 306 teeth of known age, sex and race provided the following equation: Age (years) = 0.18 × P + 0.42 × T + 25.53. The mean error between the actual and estimated age was ± 10 years on the working sample and ± 8.4 years on a control sample made of 45 forensic science cases. Upper incisors showed a better precision than the other single rooted teeth and accuracy was not sex related. A comparison of the Gustafson and Lamendin methods on a control sample of 39 teeth resulted in an advantage of the latter considering the mean error on the estimation (14.2 ± 3.4 years for Gustafson versus 8.9 ± 2.2 for Lamendin). The Lamendin method can be of practical interest for any forensic pathologist or dentist as it is fast, easy to use, and reasonably accurate except for cases of individuals under age 40 where other methods must be preferred.
Human Osteology: Key to the Sequence of Events in a Postmortem Shooting
Authors: Mann RW , Owsley DW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic anthropologic examination of human skeletal remains found when a field was plowed provides evidence of both perimortem trauma, suggesting cause of death, and of subsequent shooting of the disarticulated skeleton. The case exemplifies the application of the specialized skills and knowledge of the physical anthropologist to determination of the postmortem sequence of events.
Contribution of Rodents to Postmortem Artifacts of Bone and Soft Tissue
Authors: Haglund WD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Postmortem disturbance of human remains by rodents extends beyond production of characteristic tooth mark artifacts in dry bones. Three case examples are presented that demonstrate a spectrum of rodent damage to dry and fresh bone and to fresh and mummified soft tissue. In one case, human remains are used for nesting purposes. Rodents are also noted to be vectors of bone transport. Rodent activities can affect bone recovery, human identification, and interpretation of artifacts to bone and soft tissue. Guidelines to differentiate soft tissue artifacts caused by rodents and carnivores are suggested.
Ultraviolet Radiation and Its Role in Wound Pattern Documentation
Authors: West M , Barsley RE , Frair J , Stewart W 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The history of ultraviolet illumination in photography is discussed. Particular attention is devoted to the forensic aspects of ultraviolet photography as it relates to patterned injury on human skin. The authors discuss the theory underlying ultraviolet illumination of wounds on skin as well as the equipment required for this type of imaging.
Comparison of Fingernail Striation Patterns in Identical Twins
Authors: Kempton JB , Sirignano A , DeGaetano DH , Yates PJ , Rowe WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The fingernail ridge patterns of a pair of identical twins were compared to each other, their parents, and an unrelated subject. The patterns of the twin's nails showed regions of strong similarity but were distinguishable from one another. Fewer similarities were found when comparing the nails to those of the parents and the unrelated control. The twins were shown to be monozygotic by means of DNA profiling. This therefore represents the first demonstration of unique fingernail ridge patterns in subjects shown conclusively to be identical twins. When the fingernail ridge patterns were examined with a scanning electron microscope, the backscattered electron (BEI) images were found to have superior contrast when compared to the secondary electron (SEI) images.
Mona Lisa: The Enigma of the Smile
Authors: Borkowski JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo Da Vinci, 1503, pictures a smile that has been long the subject of conjecture. It is believed, however, that the Mona Lisa does not smile; she wears an expression common to people who have lost their front teeth. A close-up of the lip area shows a scar that is not unlike that left by the application of blunt force. The changes evident in the perioral area are such that occur when the anterior teeth are lost. The scar under the lower lip of the Mona Lisa is similar to that created, when, as a result of force, the incisal edges of the teeth have pierced the face with a penetrating wound.
Use of the Multiple Stress Creep Recovery (MSCR) Test Method to Characterize Polymer-Modified Asphalt Binders
Authors: Hossain Zahid , Ghosh Debaroti , Zaman Musharraf , Hobson Kenneth 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Use of polymer-modified binder has become much more important in recent years to enhance the durability and strength of asphalt concrete (AC) pavements in order to sustain higher traffic volumes, heavier loads, and extreme weather conditions. Unlike neat (unmodified) asphalt binders, polymer-modified binders are sensitive to the applied stress levels and show a nonlinear response in rutting factor and phase angle. The widely used dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test (AASHTO T315) is not sufficient to capture viscoelastic properties of polymer modified-asphalt binders. Thus, state transportation agencies often need to conduct additional expensive and time consuming “PG Plus” tests (e.g., elastic recovery (ER), force ductility, toughness, and tenacity) for characterizing polymer-modified binders. Multiple stress creep recovery (MSCR), a recently introduced test method (AASHTO TP 70) for measuring high temperature properties of an asphalt binder, is expected to replace the existing AASHTO T315 for short-term aged binder. In the current study, MSCR and Superpave tests were conducted on three commonly used performance grade (PG) binders (PG 64-22, PG 70-28, and PG 76-28) from 12 different sources throughout Oklahoma. Based on expected traffic loads and service temperatures, the tested binder samples were graded in accordance with the MSCR grading system. The non-recoverable creep compliance (Jnr) and MSCR % recovery values obtained from the MSCR tests were then analyzed using the polymer curve and quadrant methods to assess the feasibility of the adoption of the MSCR test method for conditions prevailing in Oklahoma. Findings of this study reveal that the MSCR test method can be used to characterize polymer-modified binders without penalizing suppliers or risking the users.