bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Unexpected Death Due to Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Byard RW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 14-year-old boy with infectious mononucleosis died unexpectedly in hospital. The most significant finding at autopsy was the presence of marked bilateral tonsillar enlargement with considerable narrowing of the upper airway. There were no other underlying organic diseases that could have caused or contributed to death. Narcotic analgesia had been administered less than 2 h before death and may have contributed to respiratory compromise. The blood morphine level was 0.08 mg/L. Toxicological evaluation of individuals with obstructive lesions of the upper airway may, therefore, be a useful adjunct to the autopsy assessment of such cases as it may reveal factors exacerbating mechanical blockage.
Allele Frequency Distribution of Two Minisatellite Loci (D19S20 and ApoB 3' VNTR) Among Five Distinct Population Groups of India
Authors: Das B , Chauhan PS , Seshadri M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We have analyzed DNA polymorphism at two minisatellite loci (D19S20 and ApoB 3' VNTR) among five anthropologically distinct population groups of India. Two of these belong to the state of Maharashtra in Western India (Konkanasthas and Marathas) and three from the state of Kerala in Southern India (Nairs, Ezhavas, and Muslims). A total of 235 individuals at D19S20 and 246 individuals at ApoB locus were studied.
Development of Fluorescent Markers Using Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons with Vaseline
Authors: Kurata S , Hirano H , Nagai M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Identifiable fluorescent markers were developed as tracers to tail suspects using phenanthrene, anthracene, fluoranthene, pyrene, perylene, and coronene in vaseline. Vaseline was used as a carrier of the marker. Of the six compounds in the vaseline, perylene and fluoranthene were readily observed under ultraviolet (UV) light at a wavelength of 365 nm. All six compounds were identified selectively and sensitively without interference of vaseline using a high performance liquid chromatograph (HPLC) with a fluorescence detector. The detection limit was much less than 1 ng, corresponding to that of the observation behavior under UV light. The results showed that each component with vaseline was more effective than the individual component for the delay in degradation. The case examples of the fluorescent markers are shown.
Evaluation of Some Oxygen, Sulfur, and Selenium Substituted Ninhydrin Analogues, Nitrophenylninhydrin and Benzo[f]furoninhydrin
Authors: Kobus HJ , Pigou PE , Jahangiri S , Taylor B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Six ninhydrin analogues containing oxygen, sulfur, and selenium substituents at the C-5 position, 5-(4-nitrophenyl)ninhydrin, and benzo[f]furoninhydrin were evaluated as fingerprint development reagents. The analogues all showed good fingerprint color development but were not superior to ninhydrin in this respect. The benzo[f]furoninhydrin complex was strongly luminescent at room temperature following zinc complexation, while the remaining analogues required cooling to 196°C to produce optimum luminescence. The benzo[f]furo, nitrophenyl, and methyl selenide analogues showed the best potential as fingerprint reagents with the benzo[f]furo analogue comparing favorably with DFO.
Associating Gunpowder and Residues from Commercial Ammunition Using Compositional Analysis
Authors: MacCrehan WA , Reardon MR , Duewer DL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Qualitatively identifying and quantitatively determining the additives in smokeless gunpowder to calculate a numerical propellant to stabilizer (P/S) ratio is a new approach to associate handgun-fired organic gunshot residues (OGSR) with unfired powder. In past work, the P/S values of handgun OGSR and cartridges loaded with known gunpowders were evaluated. In this study, gunpowder and residue samples were obtained from seven boxes of commercial 38 caliber ammunition with the goals of associating cartridges within a box and matching residues to unfired powders, based on the P/S value and the qualitative identity of the additives. Gunpowder samples from four of the seven boxes of ammunition could be easily differentiated. When visual comparisons of the cartridge powders were considered in addition to composition, powder samples from all seven boxes of ammunition could be reliably differentiated. Handgun OGSR was also collected and evaluated in bulk as well as for individual particles. In some cases, residues could be reliably differentiated based on P/S and additive identity. It was instructive to evaluate the composition of individual unfired gunpowder and OGSR particles. We determined that both the numerical centroid and dispersity of the P/S measurements provide information for associations and exclusions. Associating measurements from residue particles with those of residue samples collected from a test firing of the same weapon and ammunition appears to be a useful approach to account for any changes in composition that occur during the firing process.
Content Based Information Retrieval in Forensic Image Databases
Authors: Geradts Z , Bijhold J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper gives an overview of the various available image databases and ways of searching these databases on image contents. The developments in research groups of searching in image databases is evaluated and compared with the forensic databases that exist. Forensic image databases of fingerprints, faces, shoeprints, handwriting, cartridge cases, drugs tablets, and tool marks are described.
The developments in these fields appear to be valuable for forensic databases, especially that of the framework in MPEG-7, where the searching in image databases is standardized. In the future, the combination of the databases (also DNA-databases) and possibilities to combine these can result in stronger forensic evidence.
Assessment of the Quality of Medical Documents Issued in Central Police Stations in Madrid, Spain: The Doctor's Role in the Prevention of III-Treatment
Authors: Petersen HD , Morentin B , Callado LF , Meana JJ , Hougen HP , Idoyaga MI 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Doctors sometimes assess allegations of ill-treatment. Reports from such examinations may be used if the practice of the police is to be appraised; they should therefore be relevant and exhaustive.
We assessed, retrospectively, the quality of 318 medical documents concerning 100 persons held in central police stations in Madrid, Spain, from 1991 to 1994. In 71 documents concerning 44 persons the doctors quoted the detainee as alleging ill-treatment. Most of the documents appeared to lack significant information on history of ill-treatment and description of the clinical examination. Of 34 conclusions, ten were unacceptable and the premises were insufficient in 16. These observations point to weaknesses and needs for improvements in the fulfillment of the role of doctors as safeguards of the rights of detainees.
Medical examinations should be conducted outside the control of police officers, by a neutral doctor using a check-list/protocol. The quality of the report should fulfill international standards.
The Effect of Oleoresin Capsicum “Pepper” Spray Inhalation on Respiratory function
Authors: Chan TC , Vilke GM , Clausen J , Clark RF , Schmidt P , Snowden T , Neuman T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We performed a randomized, cross-over controlled trial to assess the effect of Oleoresin capsicum (OC) spray inhalation on respiratory function by itself and combined with restraint. Thirty-five subjects were exposed to OC or placebo spray, followed by 10 min of sitting or prone maximal restraint position (PMRP). Spirometry, oximetry, and end-tidal CO2 levels were collected at baseline and throughout the 10 min. Data were compared between groups (ANOVA) and with predefined normal values. In the sitting position, OC did not result in any significant changes in mean percent predicted forced vital capacity (%predFVC), percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%predFEV1), oxygen, or CO2 levels. In PMRP, mean %predFVC and %predFEV1 fell 14.4 and 16.5% for placebo and 16.2 and 19.1% for OC, but were not significantly different by exposure. There was no evidence of hypoxemia or hypercapnia in either groups. OC exposure did not result in abnormal spirometry, hypoxemia, or hypoventilation when compared to placebo in either sitting or PMRP.
Skeletal Identification Using the Frontal Sinus Region: A Retrospective Study of 39 Cases
Authors: Kirk NJ , Wood RE , Goldstein M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The importance of identification using the frontal sinus has been previously demonstrated in case reports. In this study, 39 cases of identification using frontal sinus comparison from the Ontario Chief Coroner's Office were reviewed and differences between antemortem and postmortem radiographs examined. All cases involved decedents older than twenty years. Three cases were rejected due to poor antemortem and postmortem film quality. One subject had no frontal sinus. Thirty-five cases provided conclusive postmortem to antemortem pattern matches. Sixteen cases also yielded metric (quantitative) matches. Duration between antemortem and postmortem radiographic examinations, age, gender, and cause of death did not affect the ability to obtain a match. This is the largest study undertaken on actual cases and demonstrates the validity of frontal sinus pattern matching for forensic identification.
Forensic Comparison of Soils by Bacterial Community DNA Profiling
Authors: Horswell J , Cordiner SJ , Maas EW , Martin TM , Sutherland KBW , Speir TW , Nogales B , Osborn AM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This preliminary investigation has shown that a soil microbial community DNA profile can be obtained from the small sample of soil recovered from the sole of a shoe, and from soil stains on clothing. We have also shown that these profiles are representative of the site of collection and therefore could potentially be used as associative evidence to prove a link between suspects and crime scenes. Soil community profiles were obtained using the T-RFLP fingerprinting method that uses fluorescent primer technology and semi-automated analysis techniques similar to those used in human DNA profiling in forensic laboratories.
Radiographic Identification Using the Clavicle of an Individual Missing from the Vietnam Conflict
Authors: Adams BJ , Maves RC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case is reported in which radiographic comparison of a clavicle was used to establish the identification of a civilian missing from the Vietnam conflict. While the use of radiographic comparison of skeletal features is not a newly developed technique for personal identification purposes, this case outlines a unique set of circumstances surrounding the disappearance of an individual during the Vietnam conflict and his eventual identification. A radiographic comparison of a right clavicle was critical in the identification process of this individual almost 34 years after he was reported missing. The use of digital technology for radiographic comparison greatly facilitated the process.
Bizarre Impalement Fatalities—Where Is the Implement?
Authors: Karger B , Teige K , Bajanowski T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two fatalities due to unusual impalement injuries are reported. (1) A large branch broken off during a storm had entered a passing car and perforated the chest of the driver and the back of the seat. The chest organs were grossly lacerated. The car was subsequently stopped by another tree and this second impact removed the wood from the body. (2) A man suffered anorectal impalement by the leg of a stool turned upside down. He had introduced one stool leg into his anus for sexual stimulation and fell onto it. This resulted in a wound channel 36 cm long including perforation of the rectum, urinary bladder, mesentery, transverse mesocolon and liver. Before autopsy, the mode of death was unclear because the man had removed the stool leg himself, his wife had hidden the stool from the scene, and there were no relevant external injuries. In both cases, a reliable reconstruction required investigation of the scene and consideration of extremely unlikely circumstances or of bizarre human activities.
Distribution of DYS19, DYS389 I, DYS389 II, DYS390 Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Di Nunno N , Baldassarra SL , Di Nunno C , Boninfante B , Guanti G , Forleo G , Resta N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were obtained from selected and unrelated individuals. DNA was extracted with the standard Chelex® 100 (Bio-Rad, CA) extraction procedure (1); DNA samples were amplified in a DNA Thermal Cycler 480 (Perkin Elmer Cetus, NJ) using 10 ng of template DNA.
Validation of Chest X-ray Comparisonsfor Unknown Decedent Identification
Authors: Kuehn CM , Taylor KM , Mann FA , Wilson AJ , Harruff RC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Comparing skeletal structures between antemortem and postmortem chest radiographs is widely used by forensic specialists from many disciplines to positively identify unknown decedents. However, validity assessments of this method have been fairly limited. This study had three objectives: 1) to quantify the reliability of ante- and postmortem chest radiograph comparison for decedent identification; 2) to identify useful radiologic features supporting decedent identification; and 3) to recognize sources of error in decedent identification related to use of comparative radiographs. A forensic pathologist, a forensic anthropologist, and two radiologists participated in the study. Our results showed that chest radiograph comparisons proved reliable, if basic decedent information was provided, and antemortem and postmortem radiographs were adequately positioned and exposed. A "morphological approach" using normal anatomical structures for comparison may provide the most efficient method for accurate identification.
D1S80 Polymorphism in Istanbul (Turkey)
Authors: Akgunes E , Filoglu G , Yükseloglu H , Abaci-Kalfoglu E , Atasoy S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were obtained from 78 randomly selected, healthy, unrelated individuals from both sexes and were examined in order to estimate the allele and genotype frequencies of D1S80 locus. DNA was extracted using Chelex 100 extraction method (1). The amplification was carried out according to the instructions of AmpliFLP D1S80 PCR amplification kit (2). The PCR products were analyzed using a vertical denaturating polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. The gels were silver stained. The statistical analysis was done by the gene count method and it revealed no significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg expectations. The complete data including the comparison with various Turkish and different populations (3) is available at http://istanbul.edu.tr/enstituler/ forensic/popgen-02.htm.
Allele Frequencies for Three STR Loci in Turkish Population of Kosovo
Authors: çerkezi AB , Altunçul DH , Yükseloglu H , Abaci-Kalfoglu E , Atasoy S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were collected from unrelated individuals who claim to have Turkish origin and speak the Turkish language in Kosovo. We analyzed blood samples of volunteer individuals. DNA was extracted using Chelex 100 extraction method (1) and the typing was performed using the Gene print STR systems according to the manufacturer's instructions. The detection was done by silver staining. The statistical analysis revealed no significant deviation from Hardy Weinberg expectations. Parameters like observed and expected heterozygosity, power of exclusion and discrimination, probability of match, paternity index as well as a detailed comparison with various populations (2) are available at http://istanbul.edu.tr/enstituler/forensic/popgen-03.htm.
A Case of Homicide by Lethal Injection with Lidocaine
Authors: Kalin JR , Brissie RM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This report describes a homicide by overdosage with lidocaine. The decedent, a 32-year-old male hospitalized for a lengthy period with acute intermittent porphyria and chronic pancreatitis, suffered apparent asystole and seizure. Failed resuscitation preceded death. A forensic autopsy was conducted based upon suspicions of alleged patient mistreatment by one of the attending nurses. Toxicological analyses revealed the presence of lidocaine in blood, liver, kidney, brain, and heart at 22.2 mg/L and 43.6, 28.3, 23.1, and 13.1 mg/kg, respectively. Also present were di-azepam, phenytoin, and promethazine. Both diazepam and phenytoin had been administered during resuscitation, but lidocaine had not. The cause of death was determined to be ventricular arrhythmia precipitated by lidocaine overdosage. The administered dose was calculated to have been ap-proximately 1500 mg. The manner of death was determined to be homicide. The nurse was arrested and subsequently tried for murder by adminis-tering a lethal quantity of lidocaine.
Fetal Gunshot Wound Characteristics
Authors: Catanese CA , Gilmore K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Firearm injury in pregnant women is reported in the literature; however, no articles to date address the forensic analysis of the wounds sustained by the fetus. This is a report of a 40 weeks gestational age fetus who died following multiple perforating gunshot wounds, while his mother survived. The fetal wounds were atypical, consisting of irregular perforations with radiating linear lacerations and adjacent abrasions. The unusual wound pattern may have been due to the presence of interposed targets, the shoring of the fetus against itself and the uterine corpus, and the intrinsic character of fetal skin.
Levels of Trace and Major Elements in Illicit Heroin
Authors: Bora T , Merdivan M , Hamamci C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Ten elements, aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), calcium (Ca), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were analyzed in 44 illicit heroin samples from Southeast Anatolia, Turkey. Illicit heroin samples were dissolved in nitric acid using microwave oven and were quantified by electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry (Cd and Pb) and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (Al, Ba, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, and Zn). The most abundant element was calcium, 4050 to 14200 μg/g, which could be ascribed to the use of lime in the manufacturing process and/or as diluting agent. Iron (180 to 1470 μg/g), aluminum (42 to 2280 μg/g), and zinc (160 to 210 μg/g) were found at moderately high levels, possibly because of the use of metal pots in the acetic anhydride cooking process and also for storage. Cadmium and lead concentrations were at the lowest measured levels. The amounts of magnesium, manganese, barium, and copper were in the range of 100 to 800 μg/g, 3 to 17 μg/g, 4 to 30 μg/g, and 2 to 46 μg/g, respectively.
A Method for the Determination of Syringe Needle Punctures in Rubber Stoppers Using Stereoscopic Light Microscopy
Authors: Platek SF , Keisler MA , Ranieri N , Reynolds TW , Crowe JB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The ability to accurately determine the number of syringe needle penetration holes through the rubber stoppers in pharmaceutical vials and rubber septa in intravenous (IV) line and bag ports has been a critical factor in a number of forensic cases involving the thefts of controlled substances or suspected homicide by lethal injection. In the early 1990s, the microscopy and microanalysis group of the U.S. Food and Drug Ad-ministration's Forensic Chemistry Center (FCC) developed and implemented a method (unpublished) to locate needle punctures in rubber pharma-ceutical vial stoppers. In 1996, as part of a multiple homicide investigation, the Indiana State Police Laboratory (ISPL) contacted the FCC for in-formation on a method to identify and count syringe needle punctures through rubber stoppers in pharmaceutical vials. In a joint project and investigation using the FCC's needle hole location method and applying a method of puncture site mapping developed by the ISPL, a systematic method was developed to locate, identify, count, and map syringe punctures in rubber bottle stoppers or IV bag ports using microscopic analysis. The method requires documentation of punctures on both sides of the rubber stoppers and microscopic analysis of each suspect puncture site. The final result of an analysis using the method is a detailed diagram of puncture holes on both sides of a questioned stopper and a record of the minimum number of puncture holes through a stopper.
3D Measurements on Extrusion Marks in Plastic Bags
Authors: Berx V , De Kinder J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The surface of different types of garbage bags was scanned using non-contact laser profilometry. Manufacturing defects known from visual inspection of the bags (fish eyes, arrowheads, and surface scratches) appear as differences in the height profile. Extrusion lines could only be detected in low-density polyethylene bags. Their correlation length is a couple of centimeters, whereas visually they continue over meters. This can be used to link together the end of one garbage bag with the beginning of the subsequent bag. Extrusion lines are of the order of 0.1 μm for highdensity polyethylene garbage bags.
Evaluation of Exhibits from a Murder Case Using the Lead Isotope Method and Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Gulson B , Eames JC , Davis JD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We have used a combination of lead isotopes and scanning electron microscopy to determine the relationships between different exhibits in a murder case. Samples involved lead projectiles removed from the deceased's head and a pillow, lead-rich scrapings and particles (gunshot residues) from spent cartridges and a silencer, and particles from a pillowcase. The lead projectiles had the same isotopic composition. with the lead being derived from the same dominantly geologically old source(s). The lead smear from the silencer had the same isotopic composition as the projectiles, and the lead was probably from the same source. The particles from the spent cartridges had varying elemental compositions ranging from PbO to PbCuZn ± Ba with or without Si and are consistent with derivation from the primer. The lead isotopic compositions of the particles from the spent cartridges show some variations, but these are markedly different from those of the projectiles, indicating lead from a mixture of geologically old and geologically young lead. The particles from the pillowcase were extremely small (usually ≮50 μm size) and showed varying isotopic compositions, some consistent with the gunshot residue from the cartridges. As the exhibits had been handled extensively prior to the present investigation, including some being sent to North America, there is a high likelihood that handling was not done in clean room environments and may have been contaminated. In this instance, as we were concerned about contamination, especially of the pillowcase, we felt contamination negated use of the results for assistance in proving the innocence or guilt of the accused. A combination of high-precision lead isotope measurements with scanning electron microscopy provides a powerful tool for forensic investigations if precautions are taken in handling the exhibits.