bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Searching for Graves Using Geophysical Technology: Field Tests with Ground Penetrating Radar, Magnetometry, and Electrical Resistivity
Authors: Buck S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Field experiments were conducted using three types of geophysical equipment in a variety of situations. The goal of the study was to ascertain the relative utility of this technology for non-geophysical expert forensic professionals searching for buried human remains. The study concludes that the equipment should be used with caution after a critical evaluation of specific field conditions, and more refinement of technical methods and skills should be developed.
Taphonomic Mycota: Fungi with Forensic Potential
Authors: Carter DO , Tibbett M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic archaeologists and criminal investigators employ many different techniques for the location, recovery, and analysis of clandestine graves. Many of these techniques are based upon the premise that a grave is an anomaly and therefore differs physically, biologically, or chemically from its surroundings. The work reviewed in this communication demonstrates how and why field mycology might provide a further tool towards the investigation of scenes of crime concealed in forest ecosystems. The fruiting structures of certain fungi, the ammonia and the postputrefaction fungi, have been recorded repeatedly in association with decomposed mammalian cadavers in disparate regions of the world. The ecology and physiology of these fungi are reviewed briefly with a view to their potential as a forensic tool. This application of mycology is at an interface with forensic archaeology and forensic taphonomy and may provide a means to detect graves and has the potential to estimate postburial interval.
Stable-Isotope Fingerprints of Biological Agents as Forensic Tools
Authors: Horita J , Vass AA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Naturally occurring stable isotopes of light elements in chemical and biological agents may possess unique “stable-isotope fingerprints” depending on their sources and manufacturing processes. To test this hypothesis, two strains of bacteria (Bacillus globigii and Erwinia agglomerans) were grown under controlled laboratory conditions. We observed that cultured bacteria cells faithfully inherited the isotopic composition (hydrogen, carbon, and nitrogen) of media waters and substrates in predictable manners in terms of bacterial metabolism and that even bacterial cells of the same strain, which grew in media water and substrates of different isotopic compositions, have readily distinguishable isotopic signatures. These "stable-isotopic fingerprints" of chemical and biological agents can be used as forensic tools in the event of biochemical terrorist attacks.
Spontaneous Cerebellar Hemorrhage in Children
Authors: Rosen RS , Armbrustmacher V , Sampson BA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhages are a rare but often fatal occurrence in children. Although there are several predisposing factors such as blood dyscrasias or astrocytomas, the most common cause of cerebellar hemorrhage in an otherwise healthy child is the rupture of a vascular malformation. We reviewed the files of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner of the City of New York and found four such instances over a period of less than two years. We present these here and outline the approach the forensic pathologist should take in evaluating such deaths.
Model of Age Estimation Based on Dental Factors of Unknown Cadavers Among Iranians
Authors: Monzavi BF , Ghodoosi O , Savabi O , Hasanzadeh A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two hundred and ten cadavers ranging in age from 25 to 60 were studied. Thirty subjects from each five-year interval were selected, and data were collected using the mandibular anterior and premolar teeth after extraction. Sections ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 mm were measured by a stereo microscope with a precision of 0.1 mm. The following factors were determined: attrition, periodontosis, root resorption, secondary dentine apposition, cementum apposition, and translucency of the root. Statistical analysis used the sum of ranks of the dental factors as an independent variable in a linear regression model to estimate the age of the cadaver. Among the different mandibular teeth, the sum of ranks of the first premolar factors had the best correlation coefficient with age. The sum of the dental factors presented a better model than each of the factors alone. The first premolar is recommended as the first step in the estimation of age.
A Simple Method of DNA Extraction and STR Typing from Urine Samples Using a Commercially Available DNA/RNA Extraction Kit
Authors: Yasuda T , Iida R , Takeshita H , Ueki M , Nakajima T , Kaneko Y , Mogi K , Tsukahara T , Kishi K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We devised a simple DNA extraction procedure suitable for STR typing of urine sample. Use of a commercially available DNA/RNA extraction kit equipped with a silica-gel-based membrane made it possible to omit the recovery of urinary nucleated cells by sedimentation before the extraction. Successful genotyping of the TH01, HumTPO and multiplex STRs was achieved using aliquots of urine as small as 100 µL. Furthermore, application of this DNA extraction procedure to frozen urine samples provided STR allele results comparable to results obtained from fresh samples. Therefore, this extraction procedure is considered to be effective for STR typing of urine samples in both the frozen and aqueous state. Furthermore, addition of sodium azide to fresh urine samples prolonged their storage duration even at room temperature.
Identification and Quantitation of Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (NaGHB) by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Chew SL , Meyers JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The most common means of identification of gamma-hydroxybutyrate (NaGHB) involves using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) or gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) of a suitable derivative. However, these methods may be complicated by possible shifts in chemical equilibrium between gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), GHB salts and the precursor lactone, gamma-butyrolactone (GBL). This paper addresses the technique of proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H and 13C NMR) for the direct and accurate identification of GHB and GBL. The application of 1H NMR for GHB quantitation is also discussed.
AmpFℓSTR® Profiler Plus™ Short Tandem Repeat DNA Analysis of Casework Samples, Mixture Samples, and Nonhuman DNA Samples Amplified under Reduced PCR Volume Conditions (25 µL)
Authors: Fregeau CJ , Bowen KL , Leclair B , Trudel I , Bishop L , Fourney RM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
As part of the validation of the AmpFℓSTR® Profiler Plus™ short tandem repeat (STR) system, under reduced polymerase chain reaction (PCR) volume conditions (i.e., 25 µL), a total of 275 casework samples were processed. Examples of profiles are presented along with amplification conditions to improve the odds of obtaining balanced and complete profiles for samples showing partial results or profiles with a descending slope. Data collected and used to develop our interpretation guidelines are included. From the mixture studies, full profiles were obtained for minor contributors, using 2 ng of DNA, with ratios of 10:1 or 1:20 and using 1 ng of DNA, with ratios of 10:1 and 1:8. The specificity of the Profiler Plus™ amplification reaction performed in 25 µL was examined and confirmed using a large spectrum of nonhuman DNAs. This report supports the use of the AmpF€STR® Profiler Plus™ STR system for casework DNA typing under reduced PCR volume conditions.
Osteometric Sorting of Commingled Human Remains
Authors: Byrd JE , Adams BJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper describes the method of osteometric sorting. Osteometric sorting is the formal use of size and shape to sort bones from one another. The method relies heavily on measurement data and statistical models and is designed to maximize objectivity. The goal of this paper is to validate the use of osteometric sorting and to provide case examples of its utility. Selected regression models are also presented for use with osteometric sorting. We advocate this technique as one tool among many in the anthropologist's toolkit for sorting commingled skeletal remains.
Characterization of Surface Organic Components of Human Hair by On-Line Supercritical Fluid Extraction—Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry: A Feasibility Study and Comparison with Human Identification Using Mitochondrial DNA Sequences
Authors: Benner BA , Goodpaster JV , DeGrasse JA , Tully LA , Levin BC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper discusses results of a supercritical fluid extraction–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (SFE-GC/MS) study of small samples (100 µg to 1 mg) of human scalp hair. The method offers a number of benefits including greater sensitivity than liquid extraction methods because the entire extractable mass is transferred to the analytical system, compared with only a few percent from a conventional liquid extraction/injection. The project's goals were to determine if SFE-GC/MS analyses of the surface-extractable components of an individual's hair yield consistent chemical profiles and to investigate if the profiles are sufficiently different to distinguish them from those of other individuals. In addition, the mtDNA sequences from ten of the same individuals used in the SFE-GC/MS study from four family units were determined, and, while the families were distinguishable, the maternal relations yielded identical sequences. In tandem, SFE-GC/MS and mtDNA techniques may provide valuable complementary data from forensic hair samples.
Haplotype Distribution of Nine Y-Chromosome STR-Loci in Two Northern Spanish Populations (Asturias and Aragon)
Authors: Martinez-Jarreta B , Nievas P , Abecia E , Hinojal R , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Whole blood samples were collected from healthy unrelated donors born and living in Aragon (n = 136) and Asturias (n = 120). DNA was isolated using standard phenol-cloroform extraction method. Amplification was carried out according to Nievas (1) in a PE 2400 thermocycler (PE Biosystems). Each locus was amplified individually, except DYS389I/II and DYS385 (two loci each with the same set of primers). The recommendations of the International Society for Forensic Genetics were followed for typing and interpretation (2). In addition, we successfully took part in the quality control exercise for Y-STRs organized by Dr. Lutz Roewer, Institute of Legal Medicine, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany (3). Y-STR haplotype variability was evaluated by means of Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) (4,5).
Angola Population Data with AmpFℓSTR™ Profiler Plus
Authors: Geada H , Viriato L , Vieira-Silva C , Cruz C , Ribeiro T , Espinheira R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood stains from 116 unrelated individuals from Angola (West Africa) were stored using bloodstain card and extracted with the standard Chelex method. PCR amplification was performed in a GeneAmp® PCR System 9600, using the AmpFℓSTR® Profiler Plus™ Amplification Kit, according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Electrophoresis of the PCR products was carried out in an ABI Prism™ 377 DNA Sequencer, using 5% denaturing Long Ranger® gels. Sample genotypes were determined with Genotyper® (version 2.0), by comparison with supplied allelic ladders and an internal size standard (GS-500Rox).
Evaluation of Extraction Techniques for the Forensic Analysis of Human Scalp Hair Using Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS)
Authors: Goodpaster JV , Drumheller BC , Benner BA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Preliminary research using on-line supercritical fluid extraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SFE/GC-MS) has shown that the natural and artificial surface components of human scalp hair are reproducible and differentiable. Therefore, these components may be useful for individualization or determining demographic characteristics or both. However, it is not known how the efficiency and selectivity of on-line SFE/GC-MS compares to other extraction methods. In this study, ultrasound, Soxhlet, and pressurized-fluid extraction were used to extract 1 mg to 1.3 g portions of a composite hair sample taken from an Asian male between the ages of 10 and 18. Percent extractables ranged from 0.9% to 5.6%, depending on the solvent used, and tended to increase with solvent polarity. Chemical analysis using GC/MS showed that the extracts contained large proportions of free fatty acids, squalene, cholesterol, and various wax esters. Finally, comparisons to SFE/GC-MS showed that this method possesses adequate efficiency, no observable differences in selectivity, and greater potential for miniaturization.
Testing for GHB in Hair by GC/MS/MS after a Single Exposure. Application to Document Sexual Assault
Authors: Kintz P , Cirimele V , Jamey C , Ludes B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid, or GHB, is a substance naturally present within mammal species. Properties of neurotransmitter or neuromodulator are generally given to this substance. GHB is therapeutically used as an anesthetic, but can be used for criminal offenses (date-rape drug).
It appears that the window of detection of GHB is very short in both blood and urine, and therefore its presence is very difficult to prove after a rape case.
In order to document single exposure, we investigated the use of hair.
Hair was collected one month after the allegated event in order to sample the corresponding period after regular growing.
After rapid (2 min) decontamination with dichloromethane, the hair shaft was cut into 3-mm segments. They were overnight incubated in 0.01 N NaOH in the presence of GHB-d6, followed by neutralization and extraction in ethyl acetate under acidic conditions. GHB (precursor ion m/z 233, product ions m/z 147 and 148) was tested by GC/MS/MS (Finnigan TSQ 700) after derivatization with BSTFA + 1% TMCS.
Physiological concentrations (n = 24) were in the range 0.5 to 12.0 ng/mg, with no influence due to hair color. No variation of concentrations was observed along the hair shaft in controlled subjects, except for the proximal segment, due to an incorporation through sweat. This demonstrates that endogenous levels for each single subject are constant during hair growth.
A controlled human administration of 25 mg/kg to a volunteer demonstrated that a single exposure to GHB is detectable in hair after segmentation.
In a case of rape under influence, a clear increase of the corresponding segment (about 2.4 ng/mg) in time was observed, in comparison with the other segments (0.6 to 0.8 ng/mg).
This study demonstrates that a single exposure to GHB in a case of sexual assault can be documented by hair analysis when collected about one month after the crime.
A Potential Metallographic Technique for the Investigation of Pipe Bombings
Authors: Walsh GA , Inal OT , Romero VD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study was conducted in an attempt to develop a metallographic method for the investigation of pipe bombings. Three common pipe materials, ASTM A53 steel, AISI 304L stainless steel, and 6061-T6 aluminum, were shock-loaded using five high explosives and three propellants. The explosives used were ANFO, Composition C4, C6 detasheet, nitroglycerine-based dynamite, and flake TNT. The propellants used were FFFFg black powder, Red Dot smokeless powder, and Turbo Fuel A.
The post-blast microstructure, hardness, and, in the case of 304L, transformed martensite content were examined for each test. The damage done to the microstructure was found to increase with increasing detonation velocity of the explosives and increase in pressure generated by the shockmetal interaction. Material hardness and, in the case of 304L, martensite content showed a sharp increase followed by a plateau as the shock pressure and detonation velocity increased.
Postmortem Findings in 22 Victims Due to Two Grain Silo Explosions in France
Authors: Botti K , Grosleron-Gros N , Khaldi N , Oliviera A , Gromb S , Gromb S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In 1982 and 1997 there were explosions of barley-containing silos in France, one in Metz (1982) and the other in Blaye (1997). There were a total of 25 victims, including 23 fatalities (12 in Metz and 11 in Blaye). In each case there was one survivor. This report is a retrospective study of 22 victims (11 at each site); all of them had multiple lesions due to the explosion and the immediate aftermath. The lesions demonstrated direct involvement of the blast effect associated with silo destruction, the heat from the explosion, the effects of toxic gases and asphyxia. The forensic pathologist is an important member of the emergency response team. This team has the responsibility for initially assessing the damage and for identifying the victims. The role of the forensic pathologist is therefore essential and they should be included in emergency planning to facilitate the initial assessment, shorten the time taken to identify the victims and improve safety procedures. Although dust explosions in agro-business plants are occurring more frequently, postmortem data are rare.
Gene Frequencies for Three Hypervariable DNA Loci in a Chilean Population of Mixed Ancestry
Authors: Carriquiry F , Bacallao K , Acuna M , Cifuentes L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were collected in tubes containing ACD from 121 unrelated individuals who asked paternity analysis in The Clinical Hospital of the University of Chile during the years 2000 and 2001. The method presented by Comey (1) was used to remove DNA from the samples. The three STR were amplified using 1 ng of DNA for each PCR reaction, and the fragments electrophoresed through 6% acrylamide gels and silver stained, according to the manufacturer's recommendations (2).
Population Genetics of 12 STR Loci in a Sample of Mestizos from Ecuador (South America)
Authors: Sánchez DQ , Gonzalez-Andrade F , Martinez-Jarreta B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Ecuador is a small South American country with almost 12 million inhabitants comprised of three main ethnic groups: (a) Urban populations, usually dihybrid Mestizos- or trihybrid and (b) Amerindian natives, more than 100 multiethnic and pluricultural groups, and (c) African-derived populations in fairly isolated communities and descendants of slaves (1,2). Mestizos are the most representative and largest group in our country. They are descendants of Spanish (Caucasian) and Amerindian people. This is a new hybrid group, like the Mulatos who arose from Caucasians and Blacks or Zambos, a mixture of Amerindians and Blacks. We think that different degrees of genetic admixture exist, mainly with Amerindians, too. This situation has several variations towards the cities of the Andes and the cities of the Pacific coast.
Allele Frequencies for Two STR Loci D21S1436, D21S2052 in Chinese Population
Authors: Yan J , Hou YP , Wu J , Li YB , Tang JP , Gao YZ , Ying BW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were collected from unrelated individuals of Chinese Han ethnic group in Chengdu of China. DNA was extracted using Chelex method (1). PCR amplification conditions can be accessed at http://www.legalmed.org/dna/d21s1436.htm. The volume of PCR reaction for each locus was 37.5 µL. The PCR products were analyzed by horizontal non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with discontinuous buffer system and visualized by silver staining (2,3). Data were analyzed using POWERSTATS program (4). The genotype distribution was analyzed for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium according to Hou's method (5) and no deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed.
Mitochondrial DNA Hypervariable Region I and II Sequence Polymorphism in the Dravidian Linguistic Group of India
Authors: Rajkumar R , Kashyap VK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Mitochondrial DNA is an important tool for studying maternal lineage that has been widely used in the study of human identification and population structure as well. In this study, HV I and HV II sequence polymorphism is studied in four important populations belonging to the Dravidian linguistic family of Karnataka, India. The information on some polymorphic autosomal STR loci is already available for these populations (1).
Preferential Extraction of Hydrocarbons from Fire Debris Samples by Solid Phase Microextraction
Authors: Lloyd JA , Edmiston PL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Headspace analysis by extraction/GC-MS is a common method of detecting volatile hydrocarbon accelerants in fire debris samples. Solid-phase microextraction was tested to determine if there is selective extraction of chemically distinct compounds. It was found that both the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and Carboxen/PDMS solid phase microextraction fibers show preferential extraction of aliphatic or aromatic compounds from the headspace depending on fiber type and temperature. The Carboxen/PDMS fiber type showed particular (although not exclusive) selectivity for extraction of aromatic hydrocarbons. Other experimental considerations of SPME are noted.
Allele Frequencies for D1S80 (pMCT118) Locus in Some East European Populations
Authors: Verbenko DA , Kekeeva TV , Pogoda TV , Khusnutdinova EK , Mikulich AI , Kravchenko SA , Livshits LA , Bebyakova NA , Limborska SA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Byelorussian populations are from three regions of the Republic of Belarus (Grodno, Bobruisk, and Mjadel areas); the Russians are from the Kholmogory town of the Russian Federation (Arkhangelsk district); and the Ukrainian populations are from the Kiev and L'vov areas of Ukraine. The Mordva-Moksha (Staro-Shaiginsk and Romodanovsk areas of Mordva Republic), the Bashkirs (Ilishevsky, Abzelilovsky, Sterlibashevsky, Arkhangelsky, and Beloretsky districts of Bashkir Republic), the Komi-Zyrjan (Sysolsky district of Komi Republic), the Tartar (Almetyevsk town of Tartar Republic), and the Mari (Zvenigovsk area of Mari Republic) populations present distinct ethnic groups of the region between the Volga River and the Ural Mountains in Russia. Eastern Slavonic populations (Russians, Byelorussians, Ukrainians) are Caucasoids; other populations were considered as admixture populations with different levels of a Mongoloid component.
The Diversity of Adult Dental Patterns in the United States and the Implications for Personal Identification
Authors: Adams BJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Few would argue about the individuality of dental radiographs for forensic identification, but when an antemortem/postmortem comparison is based strictly on dental treatment notes and/or charts it becomes less certain. In the past, attempts to validate the high diversity of dental patterns created by combinations of missing, filled, and unrestored teeth have been based on unfounded statistical assumptions. The goal of this research is to present a statistically valid method of assessing dental pattern diversity for the identification of missing individuals. Empirical observation of large reference datasets was found to be the best technique for assessing dental diversity. This technique is nearly identical to the procedure used for mitochondrial DNA casework. For the research presented in this paper, two large datasets were used, one composed of U.S. military personnel and one composed of U.S. civilians. Dental patterns were found to be very diverse on a scale that is comparable to mtDNA. In addition, it was found that the diversity values remain very consistent regardless of the level of detail present in the treatment records. Overall, combinations of missing, filled, and unrestored teeth were found to be very individualistic and an excellent source for forensic identification.