bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Coronal Cleft Vertebra Initially Suspected as an Abusive Fracture in an Infant
Authors: Aronica-Pollak PA , Stefan VH , McLemore J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A case of a four-month-old male infant is described who was found unresponsive at home and brought to the emergency room. He lived for four days. During his hospital admission he was diagnosed by radiography with a fracture of the third lumbar vertebra that was presumed abusive in nature.
Autopsy examination failed to confirm a fracture. However, a defect in the development of the vertebral bodies was discovered. He was diagnosed with possible failure of the notochord to regress, a condition with no significant sequelae. The cause of death was certified as sudden infant death syndrome after full investigation, and all autopsy studies were negative.
Characterization and Aging Study of Currency Ink and Currency Canine Training Aids Using Headspace SPME/GC-MS
Authors: Vu D-TT 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME/GC-MS) was used to characterize the volatile components associated with U.S. currency, U.S. currency inks, and Canadian currency. Compounds that can be attributed to the ink-curing process include series of straight-chain aldehydes, alkenals, acids, alcohols, and ketones and a series of lactones and 2-alkyl furans. Solvent compounds include naphthenic and paraffinic hydrocarbons with a profile typical of petroleum products, alkyl cyclohexanes, various ethylene glycol alkyl ethers, and traces of chlorinated solvents. Trace levels of 2-phenoxyethanol, a solvent often used in ink formulations, were also detected. Environmental contaminants, those compounds found in circulating currency but not in currency ink, include 2,2'-diethyl-1,1'-biphenyl, methyl benzoate and salicylate, menthol, limonene, dimethyl and diethyl phthalate, and ionol. Not including simple hydrocarbons, over 100 compounds were identified in the headspace of currency-related samples.
A Review of Nail Gun Suicides and an Atypical Case Report
Authors: Shakir A , Koehler SA , Wecht CH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The nail gun was designed as a powerful industrial tool to drive nails into various hard surfaces with ease. Serious injuries associated with the tool are uncommon and deaths are rare. Unintentional injuries normally occur from misuse of the tool or from ricocheting nails. The intentional use of a nail gun to commit suicide is unusual.
This paper will review successful and unsuccessful suicide attempts by use of a nail gun. We will present an atypical case of suicide committed with a nail gun by a 46-year-old depressed male investigated by the Allegheny County Coroner's Office in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania in April 2002. This case reports for the first time a unique pathological finding of a ring of bone traveling with the nail, which has not been seen in wounds of the head caused by other types of projectiles.
Improper Sealing Caused by the Styrofoam Integrity Seals in Leakproof Plastic Bottles Lead to Significant Loss of Ethanol in Frozen Evidentiary Urine Samples
Authors: Sreerama L , Hardin GG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Evidentiary urine samples (n = 345) stored frozen at -20°C in their original containers (leakproof 100 mL plastic bottles) upon retesting for ethanol resulted in concentrations that were significantly lower (average loss = ~30%) than those prior to their storage at -20°C (p ~ 0.0001). The observed loss of ethanol was independent of the method of thawing or the concentration of ethanol in the samples, but was dependent on the sample volume in the container, i.e., the larger the volume of sample the larger the magnitude of ethanol loss. The loss of ethanol was determined to be due to improper sealing by a Styrofoam integrity seal attached to the mouth of the container. Accordingly, adopting leakproof plastic containers that do not contain Styrofoam integrity seals, but rather an outside and across the cap tape integrity seal for evidence collection and longterm storage, will prevent loss of ethanol due to evaporation.
Polydrug Fatality Involving Metaxalone
Authors: Gruszecki AC , Kloda S , Simmons GT , Daly TM , Hardy RW , Robinson CA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 29-year old female with a history of depression was found dead in a hotel room. The death scene investigation found empty pill bottles and an empty liter bottle of wine. Metaxalone, a centrally acting muscle relaxant, along with citalopram, ethanol, and chlorpheniramine were identified in the postmortem samples and quantitated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The concentration of metaxalone in femoral vein blood was 39 mg/L. The heart blood concentration was 54 mg/L. Femoral vein blood concentrations of citalopram and chlorpheniramine were 0.77 mg/L and 0.04 mg/L, respectively. Ethanol levels were 0.13 g/dL in vitreous and 0.08 g/dL in heart blood. Other tissue samples were also analyzed. The authors consider the metaxalone concentrations toxic and potentially fatal. The citalopram concentrations were lower than those reported in fatal cases for this drug alone. Death was ascribed to polydrug abuse/overdose with metaxalone a major contributor. This represents the first reported case to our knowledge in which a metaxalone overdose significantly contributed to death.
Allele Frequencies of Nine STR Loci in Chinese She Ethnic Group from Zhejiang, China
Authors: Zhang YF , Hou YP , Li YY , Lan ZC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, D7S820 Blood samples were collected from 120 unrelated individuals of Chinese She ethnic group in Zhejiang province, China. DNA was extracted from blood samples using Chelex method (1). The PCR amplification of the nine STR loci (D3S1358, vWA, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, D7S820) was carried out by using reagents provided in the AmpFfSTR Profiler Plus™ kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) and using a GeneAmp PCR System 9600 (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) according to the technical manual. The amplified products were analyzed by ABI Prism™ 310 Genetic Analyzer (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) according to the manufacturer's recommendation protocol. Data of population genetics and forensic science were analyzed using POWERSTATS program (2). The genotype distribution was analyzed for Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium according to Hou's method (3) and no deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed.
Allele Frequencies and Statistical Parameters for Eight STR Loci in Córdoba (Argentina) Population
Authors: Silvart TG , Lucca MA , Miozzo MC , Furrer VE , Mutal SA , Pacharoni C , Martinez G , Modesti NM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
EDTA whole blood samples were collected from above 300 unrelated individuals of urban and countryside population of Cordoba (Argentina) to study loci TH01, TPOX, CSF1PO, FESFPS, F13A01. The sample set for loci D16S530, FABP, and D6S366 were 117, 192, and 171 individuals respectively. DNA was obtained by CTAB treatment, chloroform extraction, and ethanol precipitation (1). Loci CSF1PO, TH01, TPOX, FESFPS and F13A01, were amplified using either homemade PCR or GenePrint STR Multiplex Systems CTT and FFV (Promega Corporation, Madison WI). The homemade PCRs were performed using standard protocols (2–4). Either CTT and FFv GenePrint STR Multiplex Systems, and GenePrint Silver STR III for locus D16S539, were used according to the manufacturer's instructions (5).
Two Fatal Cases Involving Concurrent Use of Methamphetamine and Morphine
Authors: Uemura K , Sorimachi Y , Yashiki M , Yoshida K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report on two cases of simultaneous administration of methamphetamine (MAP) and morphine (MOR) with hyperthermia. The blood levels of MAP and MOR were toxic and putatively lethal, respectively, although hyperthermia is a known cause of intoxication due to MAP rather than MOR. In Japan, MAP is the most predominant cause of drug intoxication. The presented cases suggest that MOR may exert synergistic effect on hyperthermia due to the MAP intoxication, together with experimental findings.
Cadaver Dog and Handler Team Capabilities in the Recovery of Buried Human Remains in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Lasseter AE , Jacobi KP , Farley R , Hensel L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The detection of human remains that have been deliberately buried to escape detection is a problem for law enforcement. Sometimes the cadaver dog and handler teams are successful, while other times law enforcement and cadaver dog teams are frustrated in their search. Five field trials tested the ability of four cadaver dog and handler teams to detect buried human remains. Human and animal remains were buried in various forested areas during the summer months near Tuscaloosa, Alabama. The remains ranged in decomposition from fresh to skeletonized. Cadaver dogs detected with varying success: buried human remains at different stages of decomposition, buried human remains at different depths, and buried decomposed human and animal remains. The results from these trials showed that some cadaver dogs were able to locate skeletonized remains buried at a significant depth. Fresh and skeletonized remains were found equally by the cadaver dogs along with some caveats. Dog handlers affected the reliability of the cadaver dog results. Observations and videotape of the cadaver dogs during field trials showed that they were reliable in finding buried human remains.
Allele Frequency Distribution of Power Plex 1.2 and Profiler Plus Short Tandem Repeats (STR) Loci in Egyptian Population
Authors: Tahir MA , Herrera RJ , El-Gohary M , Granoff M , Amjad M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were collected from 176 unrelated Egyptian individuals in EDTA-coated vacutainer tubes. Of these, 148 individuals were Muslims and 28 Christian. Informed consent was obtained at the time of blood collection. DNA was extracted by organic extraction (Phenol/chloroform/Isoamyl alcohol) followed by ethanol precipitation (1). The quantity of DNA was determined using ACES 2.0 quantiblot kit (GIBCO-BRL Gaithersburg, MD). Promega PowerPlex 1.2 and PE Profiler Plus kits were used to amplify DNA from the Muslim and Christian populations, respectively. Amplified products were electrophoresed on an ABI 310 Genetic Analyzer (ABI Systems, Foster City, CA). Data were analyzed using DNA typing program written by Chakraborty and Zhong (2).
Population Data of Ecuador for Fifteen STR Loci (POWERPLEX™ 16)
Authors: Fenandez-Rosado F , Martinez-Espin E , Rodriguez T , Entrala C , Alvarez JC , Lorente JA , Lorente M , Budowle B , Villanueva E 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture from unrelated individuals (n = 150) living in Ecuador.
Paraguayan Population Data on the Fifteen STR Loci Included in the POWERPLEX 16™ Kit
Authors: Martinez-Espin E , Fernandez-Rosado F , Alvarez JC , Entrala C , Lorente JA , Oviedo de Duarte M , Villanueva E , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples were obtained by venipuncture from unrelated individuals (n = 168) living in Paraguay.
Nonmetric Subadult Skeletal Sexing Traits: I. A Blind Test of the Accuracy of Eight Previously Proposed Methods Using Prehistoric Known-Sex Mummies from Northern Chile
Authors: Sutter RC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
While a number of nonmetric sex-related traits have been proposed, the accurate assignment of sex to subadult skeletal materials is generally considered problematic. Eight previously proposed nonmetric traits of the ilia and mandible have been demonstrated by other researchers to be related to the known-sex of subadults, yet there has been relatively little research attempting to evaluate the utility of these traits using independent collections of known-sex subadult skeletal remains. These eight traits include: elevation of the auricular surface, angle of the greater sciatic notch, depth of the greater sciatic notch, the "arch criteria," curvature of the iliac crest, gonial eversion, mandibular protrusion, and mandibular arcade shape.
The present study blindly tested these eight nonmetric traits using 85 autopsied prehistoric known-sex mummified subadult remains from northern Chile that range in age between newborn and 15 skeletal years of age. The two primary questions examined for each trait are: (1) are the different character states for each of the eight traits related to known-sex, and (2) which of the eight traits are accurate enough for use in forensic cases? These questions are examined for each trait by both sex and age class so as to uncover potential sex- and age-related strengths and weaknesses for each of the characteristics.
The results indicate that all eight of the previously proposed subadult sex-related traits are indeed related to known-sex, but that there is a great deal of variation by both sex and age in terms of the strength of congruent sex-related associations. With the exception of gonial eversion, all of the traits produced statistically significant X2 values for their associations with known-sex when all subadult remains were considered. However, when all subadults are considered, only four traits demonstrated acceptable levels of accuracy for forensic applications. These traits include the arch criteria (82.3%), angle of the sciatic notch (80.7%), depth of the sciatic notch (79.0%), and mandibular arcade shape (77.6%). For subadults ranging in age from newborn to five skeletal years of age, only depth of the sciatic notch (81.5%) and the arch criteria (81.5%) approach acceptable levels of accuracy for use in forensic cases. The implications of these results are discussed and recommendations for bioarchaeological and forensic applications are made.
Background Correction in Forensic Photography I. Photography of Blood Under Conditions of Non-Uniform Illumination or Variable Substrate Color—Theoretical Aspects and Proof of Concept
Authors: Wagner JH , Miskelly GM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The combination of photographs taken at two or three wavelengths at and bracketing an absorbance peak indicative of a particular compound can lead to an image with enhanced visualization of the compound. This procedure works best for compounds with absorbance bands that are narrow compared with "average" chromophores. If necessary, the photographs can be taken with different exposure times to ensure that sufficient light from the substrate is detected at all three wavelengths. The combination of images is readily performed if the images are obtained with a digital camera and are then processed using an image processing program. Best results are obtained if linear images at the peak maximum, at a slightly shorter wavelength, and at a slightly longer wavelength are used. However, acceptable results can also be obtained under many conditions if non-linear photographs are used or if only two wavelengths (one of which is at the peak maximum) are combined. These latter conditions are more achievable by many "mid-range" digital cameras. Wavelength selection can either be by controlling the illumination (e.g., by using an alternate light source) or by use of narrow bandpass filters. The technique is illustrated using blood as the target analyte, using bands of light centered at 395, 415, and 435 nm. The extension of the method to detection of blood by fluorescence quenching is also described.
Mummified Trophy Heads from Peru: Diagnostic Features and Medicolegal Significance
Authors: Verano JW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Several forms of mummified human trophy heads were produced by prehistoric and historic native groups in South America. This paper describes the diagnostic features of trophy heads produced by the Nasca culture of ancient Peru. A growing interest in these mummified heads among collectors of Pre-Columbian art and antiquities has led to their illegal exportation from Peru, in violation of national and international antiquities laws. Requests from the Peruvian government to protect its cultural patrimony led the United States in 1997 to declare these heads as items subject to U.S. import restriction, along with six other categories of human remains. Despite such restrictions, Nasca trophy heads continue to reach private collectors outside of Peru and thus may be encountered by local, state, or federal law enforcement officials unfamiliar with their characteristic features and origin. The objective of this paper is to describe the features that allow Nasca trophy heads to be identified and distinguished from other archaeological and forensic specimens that may be submitted to a forensic anthropologist for identification.
Fatal Cyclobenzaprine Overdose with Postmortem Values
Authors: Spiller HA , Cutino L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
There are only two published cases of overdose with postmortem blood cyclobenzaprine concentrations, both with confounding factors. We report two additional cases of fatal cyclobenzaprine overdose with postmortem values. Case 1: a 56-year-old female was found in full cardiopulmonary arrest after a verbal suicide threat to a friend. Postmortem blood concentrations were cyclobenzaprine 0.96 mg/L and diazepam 0.3 mg/L. Case 2: a 37-year-old male was found in full arrest by a family member after an intentional ingestion of cyclobenzaprine. Postmortem blood concentrations were cyclobenzaprine 0.8 mg/L and ethanol 0.174 gm/dL. The concentrations of diazepam and ethanol reported in these two patients were not found in quantities usually associated with a fatal outcome, suggesting that the cyclobenzaprine was the primary cause of the fatality. Additionally, the blood was drawn from a femoral site, so that postmortem redistribution is not a likely factor. Blood concentration of ? 0.8 mg/L cyclobenzaprine may be associated with a fatal outcome.
Strategy for Staffing Forensic Scientists
Authors: Dale WM , Becker WS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Our nation needs a strategy for staffing forensic scientists in public forensic laboratories. Low salaries and demands for training time impact scientist productivity and turnover in our public forensic laboratories. New automation technologies can be leveraged to increase the capacities of our laboratories, and while construction of new laboratories is essential, the most difficult challenge ahead is the shortage of intellectual capital needed to staff our laboratories.
Review of: A Review of Suspect Identities: A History of Fingerprinting and Criminal Identification
Authors: Bailey JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Students, researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field of personal identification and forensics will find the text interesting and informative. Cole uses photographs and charts to illustrate and emphasize important concepts associated with the history of personal identification. Cases and issues are summarized that are relevant in the development of the identification system used in America. Many of the cornerstone decisions that were made in the field of identification resulted from the collective efforts of individuals and organizations whose initial objectives were to create an infallible link between records and people.
French Allele Frequencies and Haplotypes of Nine Y-specific STRs
Authors: Keyser-Tracqui C , Ricaut F-X , Blandin P , Ludes B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Blood samples or buccal swabs were collected from 100 Caucasian males living in Strasbourg, after obtaining their informed consent. After DNA extraction using the Cleanmix kit (Talent), all males were analyzed at nine STR loci. The six Y-STR loci DYS19, DYS389-II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS393 and, DYS385 were coamplified in a multiplex reaction using the Y-Plex6™ kit according to the manufacturers' recommendations (ReliaGene Technologies Inc.). The three others (DYS389-I, DYS392, and YCAII) were amplified by singleplex PCR. Primer sequences were those described by de Knijff et al. (1), except for the loci DYS389-I which was amplified using the primer sequence described by Schultes et al. (2). Amplification products were analyzed by capillary electrophoresis on an ABI Prism 3100 Genetic analyzer (Applied Biosystems). Fragment sizes were determined automatically using the GeneMapper software and typed by comparison with an allelic ladder (provided in the kit or obtained by the mixture of previously sequenced samples for the most common alleles). The allele nomenclature was the one recommended by the International Society of Forensic Genetics (3). Data have been contributed to the YHRD and can be searched at www.ystr.org/europe.
Homicide Attempt with a Japanese Samurai Sword
Authors: Raul J-S , Berthelon L , Geraut A , Tracqui A , Ludes B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of Japanese swords for homicidal attempts is rare. A Japanese samurai sword is a sharp and cutting object. When faced with the use of this weapon, one must distinguish between stabs and incised wounds. Incised wounds can rarely lead to death, but because of the size of the weapon, stabs usually cause much more serious injuries. Stabs also imply a penetrating movement, whereas incised wounds can be the consequence of protective circular blows. Therefore, it is important to distinguish clinically between these two kinds of wounds. We report a case where the perpetrator argued he had given a circular blow, unfortunately hitting the victim. The pieces of evidence are discussed.
Commentary on: Stephan CN. Facial approximation: globe projection guideline falsified by exophthalmometry literature. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(4):730–5.
Authors: EA Craig EA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In a recent article, Facial Approximation: Globe Projection Guideline Falsified by Exophthalmometry Literature, (1) Carl Stephan concludes that the globe projection guideline presently used by forensic sculptors is incorrect and should be replaced by measurements acquired from in vivo studies of the human eye. The author should be congratulated on his review of the exophthalmometry literature. However, the guideline he claims to have falsified is intended for the art-quality artificial eyes used by most forensic sculptors. These eyes do not have actual corneas. The iris is simply covered with a thin film of acrylic that forms the anterior surface of the prosthesis. Some facial approximation experts actually sculpt the eye from clay so that the iris itself forms the most anterior surface of the globe.
Physical Match: Insole and Shoe
Authors: Shor YS , Kennedy RB , Tsach T , Volkov N , Novoselsky Y , Vinokurov A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In this case report, the authors show an interesting case of a physical match between an insole and a suspect shoe that was connected to the crime scene by a blood drop. Several pairs of shoes were seized and inspected. On the insoles of the main suspect's shoes, two different types of prints were seen, one was clear and the other image was faint. A physical match examination was conducted and the authors could place the right insole inside the right shoe. The insole was apparently glued to the shoe by the sweat, heat and dirt inside the shoe, and not by the manufacturer. In this case, the critical questions were how conclusive can the complexity of the random contours be, and whether the physical match between the two objects could pass the “Daubert challenge.”