bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Solid-Phase Microextraction (SPME) for the Recovery of Explosives from Aqueous and Post-Explosion Debris Followed by Gas and Liquid Chromatographic Analysis
Authors: Furton KG , Wu L , Almirall JR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been evaluated for the recovery of explosives residues from aqueous samples and real post-explosion solid debris samples and optimized using gas chromatography with an electron capture detector (GC-ECD) and high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection (HPLC-UV). A modified SPME/HPLC interface utilizing dual six-port valves allowed for independent optimization of SPME desorption and injection variables that provided improved chromatographic resolution and sensitivity. A unique combination of cyano and octadecyl columns resulted in the complete separation of the 14 explosives in EPA method 8330 mixture using HPLC with good quantitative results. At the optimum SPME conditions, the limits of detection (LOD) were found to be of 5 ng/mL to 16 ng/mL of explosives in water and 10 μg/kg to 40 μg/kg of explosives from soil. The technique has been successfully applied to the analysis of real post-explosion debris and can be adapted for use in the field utilizing portable chromatographic instruments.
Application of True Color X-Ray Vision for Electron Microscopy in Fired Bullets and Gunshot Residue Investigation
Authors: Torre C , Mattutino G 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An X-ray color imaging system was used to study primer particles and fired bullets from different .22 rimfire ammunition. The technique proved to be very useful, allowing a ready, concomitant analysis of the morphology of primer particles and their elemental composition. The investigation of the bottom of fired bullets showed that antimony present in the bullet alloy is not evenly distributed, but organized in plates made up of almost pure antimony. Moreover, particles and other traces adherent to lead bottomed bullets containing elements different from lead, therefore, useful to the understanding of primer composition are readily and easily detected.
Obtaining Fingerprints from Mummified Fingers: A Method for Tissue Rehydration Adapted from the Archeological Literature
Authors: Schmidt CW , Nawrocki SP , Williamson MA , Marlin DC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Our laboratory was asked to help with the rehydration of mummified human fingertips that had been removed from a recently deceased, unidentified female. Using a solution that was found in the archeological literature, we were able to successfully rehydrate dermal tissues to the extent that fingerprints could be taken. We believe that this solution, which until now has not been described in the forensic literature, is effective, affordable, and relatively easy to produce and use.
A New Infrared Spectral Library of Controlled and Noncontrolled Drug Standards Using Internal Reflection Spectroscopy
Authors: Koulis CV , Hymes KJ , Rawlins JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An infrared spectral library containing 455 controlled and noncontrolled solid drug standards was generated using internal reflection spectroscopy. All attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectra were obtained with small diamond internal reflection elements. ATR spectra will have minor variations from transmission spectra commonly found in commercial infrared libraries.
Normalization of Residual Ions After Removal of the Base Peak in Electron Impact Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Steeves JB , Gagné HM , Buel E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The mass spectra of compounds that produce limited detail under electron impact conditions may yield useful data for identification purposes when further examined. Through the mathematical removal of the base peak, previously noninformative ions become discriminating and useful for identification. In this work we show that this process of base peak removal and the re-normalizing of the remaining ions is reproducible under a variety of conditions and can be valuable for compound identification.
A Novel Approach to Obtaining Reliable PCR Results from Luminol Treated Bloodstains
Authors: Manna AD , Montpetit S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In recent years the forensic scientist has been afforded great advances in technology both in the detection of latent bloodstains and in acquiring reliable DNA typing results from very small pieces of physical evidence. Scientists are now able to detect minute quantities of latent bloodstains by utilizing the luminol reagent, oftentimes indicating that an attempt has been made to conceal any evidence of bloodshed. With the introduction of PCR based technology to the forensic arena, scientists are now routinely able to obtain DNA typing results from previously insufficient amounts of biological material, items as small as a single hair, saliva on a cigarette butt, or a bloodstain the size of a pin head. We present here a merging of these two advances coupled with a new collection medium for post luminol treated latent bloodstains. The forensic scientist is now able to routinely isolate and recover an adequate amount of DNA suitable for PCR typing at all of the Promega GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 1.1 loci. In this study, several dilutions of latent bloodstains were prepared in an effort to simulate transferred bloodstains that are routinely encountered in a crime scene setting. The latent bloodstains were treated with luminol and subsequently collected using conventional cotton tipped swabs as well as a Puritan™ sponge tipped swab. PCR typing at the Promega GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 1.1 loci was then attempted upon all dilutions of the latent bloodstains for both collection mediums. The results clearly indicate that it is now routinely possible to recover adequate amounts of DNA suitable for PCR typing upon post luminol treated bloodstains.
Allelic Distribution of Four Tetranucleotide Repeat Loci (D3S1358, D18S51, D19S253, and FGA) in a Population from Porto (North Portugal)
Authors: Pinheiro F , Pontes L , Pinto da Costa J , Huguet E , Moreno P , Gené M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele frequencies for four short tandem repeat loci were determined in a population sample from Porto (North Portugal), using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in order to investigate possible genetic differences between populations from the center and north of Portugal. After denaturing PAGE electrophoresis, nine alleles were identified for D3S1358 (n = 256), 13 alleles for D18S51 (n = 235), 10 alleles for D19S253 (n = 238), and 15 alleles for FGA (n = 181). No deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were found. The allele frequencies observed are similar to those of the Portuguese population compared except for the D3S1358 system.
The Analysis of Three Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Loci in the Slovene Population by Multiplex PCR
Authors: Drobnič K , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele frequencies for three tetrameric short tandem repeat (STR) loci D3S1358, HUMVWA, and HUMFGA were determined in a Slovene Caucasian population sample. DNA samples from a total of 221 Slovenes were amplified by multiplex PCR using the commercial kit AmpFISTR Blue (Perkin-Elmer). Separation and detection of the amplified STR fragments were carried out using a 377 automated genetic analyzer (Applied Biosystem Division/Perkin Elmer). Seven alleles at the D3S1358 locus, 8 alleles at the HUMVWA31A locus, and 13 alleles at the HUMFGA locus were observed. A deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed, only at the HUMVWA31A locus (p = 0.045, exact test). The departure at this locus was not significant after Bonferroni correction. There were no detectable departures between pairwise comparisons of the loci. The combined power of discrimination for all three loci is 0.9998, and the power of exclusion is 0.9526. The observed allele frequencies for the loci D3S1358, IIUMVWA31A, and HUMFGA are similar to those in European and U.S. Caucasian populations.
DNA Typing of Samples for Polymarker, DQA1, and Nine STR Loci from a Human Body Exhumed After 27 Years
Authors: Tahir MA , Balraj E , Luke L , Gilbert T , Hamby JE , Amjad M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A body was exhumed from the ground after 27 years. Samples of femur bone, tooth, and a fingernail were collected and successfully subjected to DNA extraction, quantitation, amplification, and subsequently typed for DQA1, polymarker, and nine STR loci. All three types of samples were typed for D3S1358, vWA, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S17, D7S820, and amelogenin using ABI Prism 377 DNA sequencer.
The Frye Hearing in Florida: An Attempt to Exclude Scientific Evidence
Authors: Sturner WQ , Herrmann MA , Boden C , Scarritt TP , Sherman RE , Harmon TS , Woods KB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
State Supreme Courts require a minimum threshold of reliability and acceptance in the scientific community for all medical and similar evidence to be admitted at trial. In Florida and some other states, the courts adhere to what is known as the Frye standard, whereas in most states and in Federal Courts, it is the so-called Daubert standard. The jurisdiction of the present case is Hillsborough County (Tampa), Florida. Forensic pathologists seldom, if ever, are requested to participate in such hearings, unlike their toxicological and basic science colleagues who are more involved in research methodology and technical procedures.
The burden is on the proponent of the evidence to prove the general acceptance of both the underlying scientific principle of the test and procedures used to apply that principle to the facts of the case at hand. The trial judge has the sole discretion to determine this question and general acceptance must be established by a preponderance of the evidence.
The authors describe in detail a hearing in a case in which they were all involved. One author (WQS) had researched and documented the original scientific methodology in the literature. The situation involved a car and tractor trailer crash with the two occupants of the car dying of multiple trauma, whereas the truck driver was not injured. Autopsy of the auto driver revealed multiple injuries with exsanguination, and only vitreous humor and liver tissue, but not blood, were tested for ethyl alcohol. The estate of the driver of the automobile brought suit against the owner of the trucking company for wrongful death. The plaintiff requested a Frye hearing to question the reliability of testing other body specimens to translate to probable blood alcohol level. The testimony, submitted documents, and eventual decision by the judge are discussed.
Work-Place Homicide by Bow and Arrow
Authors: Eriksson A , Georén B , Öström M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Arrow wounds represent an unusual class of wounds rarely seen by most forensic pathologists. In this paper we present a case of homicide by bow and arrow and the characteristics of such injuries. The essential characteristics of the lesions obtained from conically-tapered field points and from hunting broadhead tips are described and discussed in relation to injuries caused by firearm bullets. In the present case, three arrows struck the victim, and the order in which the injuries were sustained are analyzed. We also discuss the possibilities of localizing the shooter relative to the victim by analysis of the trajectories.
Motorboat Propeller Injuries
Authors: Di Nunno N , Di Nunno C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The authors anlayze the case of an Albanian refugee who was killed by the propellers of the outboard engine of a rubber dinghy while illegally attempting to reach Italy. The finding of multiple parallel, deep clear-cut injuries is uncommon, but highly characteristic of the object producing the lesions. These are typical and cannot be mistaken with those produced by sharp objects or shark bites. The description of the injuries is vital for establishing the position of the victim with regard to the propellet that struck him.
Unexpected Sudden Death from Coronary Sinus Thrombosis. An Unsual Complication of Central Venous Catheterization
Authors: Suárez-Peñaranda JM , Rico-Boquete R , Muñoz JI , Rodríguez-Núñez A , Martínez Soto MI , Rodríguez-Calvo M , Concheiro-Carro L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Coronary sinus thrombosis is an unusual but potentially serious complication of the use of central venous devices. We report a fatal case of coronary sinus thrombosis in relation to a malpositioned central venous catheter. The death occurred very soon following the beginning of symptoms and the cause could not be suspected. Direct trauma of the catheter on the coronary sinus endothelium seems the most probable cause of the thrombosis.
A Mixed-Drug Intoxication Involving Venlafaxine and Verapamil
Authors: Kunsman GW , Kunsman CM , Presses CL , Garavaglia JC , Farley NJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This case report describes the suicide of a 52-year-old woman whose cause of death was attributed to a mixed-drug intoxication involving venlafaxine and verapamil. Venlafaxine is prescribed for the treatment of depression and should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker primarily used for treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The following drug concentrations were determined in postmortem fluids: verapamil—3.5 mg/L (femoral blood), 9.4 mg/L (subclavian blood), and 1.0 mg/L (vitreous fluid); norverapamil—1.0 mg/L (femoral blood), 2.1 mg/L (subclavian blood), and 0.20 mg/L (vitreous fluid); verapamil and norverapamil could not be detected in bile or urine due to the high levels of erythromycin present; venlafaxine—6.2 mg/L (femoral blood), 8.6 mg/L (subclavian blood), 5.3 mg/L (vitreous fluid), 54.0 mg/L (bile), and 72.3 mg/L (urine); and O-desmethylvenlafaxine—5.4 mg/L (femoral blood), 8.3 mg/L (subclavian blood), positive (vitreous fluid), 29.2 mg/L (bile), and 9.5 mg/L (urine). The cause of death was determined to be a mixed-drug intoxication resulting from an overdose of verapamil and venlafaxine. The manner of death was determined to be suicide.
Development of the X-Linked Tetrameric Microsatellite Marker DXS9898 for Forensic Purposes
Authors: Hering S , Szibor R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
HumDXS9898 also known as CHLC·GATA 126G01 is a tetrameric microsatellite marker located at the Xq21.33 pericentromeric region. In kinship testing HumDXS9898 is suitable for concomitant use with HumHPRTB and HumDXS6807 which are separated from HumDXS9898 by genetic map distance of 150 and 80 cM, respectively. HumDXS9898 is closely linked to HumARA. In the German population, HumDXS9898 exhibits seven clearly distinguishable alleles ranging from 189 to 214 basepairs in size. Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium could not be detected. The observed heterozygosity was 0.75 for females and the mean exclusion probability was 0.73 for female children. Mutations were not found in the present material.
Distribution of HumvWA31, HumFESFPS, HumTH01, HumTPOX, HumCD4, HumCSF1PO Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Di Nunno N , Baldassarra SL , Carbonara M , Guanti G , Resta N , Viola L , Di Nunno C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Distribution of HumvWA31, HumFESFPS, HumTH01, HumTPOX, HumCD4, HumCSF1PO Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Review of: Hunting Serial Predators
Authors: Uzych L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Violent criminals, lamentably, do not suffer from a shortage of numbers. Well-crafted research tools which may assist investigators in their unrelenting efforts to ensnare serial predators constitute an invaluable commodity. In his meticulously-researched book, Hunting Serial Predators, Dr. Grover Godwin proffers an expertly critical analysis of the extant academic literature appertaining to serial murder, and further introduces analytical research tools which may potentially enable police investigators to more effectually classify serial predators.
Review of: Undercover, Second Edition
Authors: Uzych L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Undercover work is like a drama with three main actors: informant, suspect, and undercover agent. The second edition of Undercover, by Carmine Motto and Dale June, in a street smart and refreshingly candid manner, focuses close attention on the respective roles of these main characters in the undercover theater. Drawing on their prolific, professional experiences in undercover work, and law enforcement generally, and extensively using actual case examples, the co-authors strip away the husk and unabashedly and palpably reveal the kernel of a sordid world of counterfeiters, forgers, underworld figures, and assorted types of hoodlums involved in some criminal way with contraband.
A Review of The Ghosts of Hopewell
Authors: Doud D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The Ghosts of Hopewell by Jim Fisher is an excellent sequel to his earlier book, The Lindbergh Case which covered the events of the Hauptmann-Lindbergh case from the kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby, through the lengthy investigation and trial, to Hauptmann's execution for the crime in 1936.
Richard rosner Awards for the Best Papers by fellows in Forensic Psychiatry or Forensic Psychology
Authors: Rosner R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
February 1999 marked the tenth anniversary of the annual competition for the Best Paper by a Fellow in Forensic Psychiatry or Forensic Psychology. The purpose of the Award is both to encourage and reward research by Fellows in Forensic Psychiatry and Forensic Psychology. In recognition of its importance, the AAFS Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Section voted to name the award in honor of its originator.
Consecutive Matching Striation Criteria: A General Critique
Authors: Bunch SG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In the forensic science of firearms and toolmark identification, examiners traditionally have drawn conclusions of identity from subjective criteria. This paper critically explores the general validity of one proposed objective-criteria regime—that of counting consecutive matching striations on fired bullets. Practical considerations are discussed, as well as theoretical ones, with both discussions viewed from the perspective of Bayesian logic. It is concluded that drawbacks exist for this particular objective-criteria regime, but that research and logical analysis should continue.
Identification of Heroin in Street Doses Using 1D-TOCSY Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Suryaprakash N , Azoury M , Goren Z , Jelinek R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Heroin street doses are complex mixtures commonly analyzed in forensic laboratories. Identification of the illicit substance in these street doses is among the primary analytical tasks of a forensic laboratory. We demonstrate that the one-dimensional 1D-TOCSY NMR experiment permits identification of heroin in standard mixtures containing up to ten or more different components. This method produces an easily-identified and effective “fingerprint” for heroin within a mixture of other substances. The method has been successfully tested as a tool for identification of heroin in street doses from police casework in Israel. This NMR technique is robust and quick (a measurement can be carried out in 10–15 min), and it does not require any preliminary physical or chemical treatments of the sample to be examined, due to the effective spectroscopic “filtering” of the interfering components. The 1D-TOCSY NMR method can potentially be used in combination with additional analytical methods as a routine tool in forensic laboratories to positively identify heroin for court purposes.
The Petroleum-Laced Background
Authors: Lentini JJ , Dolan JA , Cherry C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Using passive headspace concentration (ASTM E-1412) and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) analysis as described in ASTM E-1618, the authors have studied the volatile components detectable in several kinds of otherwise uncontaminated substrata, including clothing, shoes, household products, building materials, paper products, cardboard, and adhesives. Due to the use of petroleum-derived liquids in the manufacture of these materials, it is frequently possible to detect the liquids, even when the products are several years old. These results point out the need for the use of comparison samples whenever possible.
A Novel Method for Forensic DNA Investigations: Repeat- Type Sequence Analysis of Tandemly Repeated mtDNA in Domestic Dogs
Authors: Savolainen P , Arvestad L , Lundberg J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A highly variable and heteroplasmic tandem repeat region situated in the mitochondrial mt DNA control region (CR) in domestic dogs and wolves was studied to evaluate its suitability as a forensic genetic marker for analysis of single hairs. The tandem repeat array is composed of three 10-bp repeat types that the distributed so that a secondary DNA sequence is formed. Thus, the region presents two levels of variation: variation in the number of repeats and variation in the secondary DNA sequence of repeat types. Two analysis methods were therefore tested; fragment length analysis and analysis of the sequence of repeat types. Fragment analysis produced unique profiles that could be used to discriminate between blood samples from maternally closely related individuals. However, different hairs from one individual did not have the same fragment profile, and the method is, therefore, not suitable for analysis of single hairs. In contrast, analysis of the repeat type sequences (array types) is highly informative. When different hairs from one individual were studied, identical array types were found. The repeat-type sequence variation was studied among individuals having identical nonrepetitive CR mtDNA sequence variants. Seven, six, and two individuals, representing three different sequence variants, respectively, were analyzed. All these individuals had different array types, which implies a very high genetic variation between individuals in this region. The analysis method considerably improves the exclusion capacity of mtDNA analysis of domestic dogs compared with sequence analysis of non-repetitive DNA.
Improved Method for Shooting Distance Determination. Part 2—Bullet Holes in Objects that Cannot be Processed in the Laboratory
Authors: Glattstein B , Zeichner A , Vinokurov A , Shoshani E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
An improved method for firing distance determination on exhibits that cannot be processed in the laboratory such as cars, doors, windows, or furniture is described. The novel part of the method includes transfer of total nitrite (nitrite ions and smokeless powder residues) from the target to an adhesive lifter. After the transfer, vaporous lead and copper deposits around the bullet entrance hole are visualized on the target by sodium rhodizonate and rubeanic acid, respectively. The Modified Griess Test is carried out after alkaline hydrolysis of the smokeless powder residues on the adhesive lifter.