bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
HbA1c predicts the likelihood of having impaired glucose tolerance in high-risk patients with normal fasting plasma glucose
Authors: Geberhiwot Tarekegn , Haddon Angela , Labib Mourad 
Published: May 2005

Background: Although the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is the 'gold standard' for diagnosing prediabetes/diabetes, it is inconvenient for the patient and time consuming. The only alternative simple screening test is fasting plasma glucose (FPG). FPG concentrations of >6.0 mmol/L represent prediabetes/diabetes. FPG concentrations of 6.0 mmol/L may be considered 'normal', although some such patients will demonstrate abnormal glucose tolerance when subjected to an OGTT. We have evaluated the use of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) as a screening test for diabetes or impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) in patients who have risk factors for diabetes but FPG ≤6.0 mmol/L. Methods and results: A total of 580 patients with at least two risk factors for diabetes underwent an OGTT and HbA1c measurement. In all, 225 patients had a FPG ≤6.0 mmol/L and met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 23.1% ( n=52) had an abnormal OGTT result (45 had IGT and 7 had diabetes). Subjects with abnormal glucose tolerance had a higher percentage of HbA1c than subjects with normal glucose tolerance ( P<0.001). An HbA1c of 5.6% gave an optimal sensitivity of 72% and specificity of 77% to predict a 2 h plasma glucose ≥7.8 mmol/L. Conclusion: The use of FPG concentration followed by selective measurement of HbA1c in patients who are at high risk of developing diabetes may represent a reasonable approach to identifying patients requiring an OGTT.
Macroprolactin; high molecular mass forms of circulating prolactin
Authors: Fahie-Wilson M N , John R , Ellis A R 
Published: May 2005

Two high molecular mass forms of prolactin (PRL) in serum have been identified by gel filtration chromatography (GFC): macroprolactin (big-big PRL, > 100 kDa) and big PRL (40-60 kDa). Macroprolactin has a variable composition and structure, but is most frequently a complex of PRL and IgG, with a molecular mass of 150-170 kDa. It is formed in the circulation following pituitary secretion of monomeric PRL but has a longer half-life, and the PRL in the complex remains reactive to a variable extent in immunoassays. In the majority of subjects little or no macroprolactin can be detected in serum, but in some individuals it may be the predominant immunoreactive component of circulating PRL and the cause of apparent hyperprolactinaemia. Owing to its high molecular mass, macroprolactin appears to be confined to the intravascular compartment and much evidence indicates that it has minimal bioactivity in vivo and is not of pathological significance. Nevertheless, hyperprolactinaemia due to macroprolactin can lead to diagnostic confusion and unnecessary further investigation and treatment if it is not recognized as such. Macroprolactin is a common cause of apparent hyperprolactinaemia with some assays and it is essential that laboratories introduce screening programmes to examine samples with elevated total immunoreactive PRL for the presence of macroprolactin and determine the monomeric PRL component which is known to be bioactive in vivo. A number of screening tests have been described; that based on the precipitation of macroprolactin with polyethylene glycol has been the most widely validated and applied. The reference technique of GFC should be available for confirmation and further investigation of samples, giving equivocal results in screening tests. In comparison with macroprolactin, little is known about big PRL. It is a more consistent component of total serum PRL but rarely, if ever, the cause of hyperprolactinaemia. Further research is required into the nature of macroprolactin and big PRL, the relationships between high molecular mass forms of PRL, and their clinical significance.
Scanning Electron Microscopy Analysis of Experimental Bone Hacking Trauma
Authors: Alunni-Perret V , Muller-Bolla M , Laugier J-P , Lupi-Peégurier L , Bertrand M-F , Staccini P , Bolla M , Quatrehomme G 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
The authors report on their macro- and microscopy study of bone lesions made by a sharp force instrument (a single blade knife), and a sharp-blunt instrument classified as a chopping weapon (a hatchet). The aim of this work was to attempt to identify the instrument by analyzing the general class characteristics of the cuts. Each weapon was used on human bones. The results indicate that macroscopic analysis is more problematic. The microscopic analysis assessed that characteristics examined were effective in distinguishing sharp from sharp-blunt injury to the bone. The microscope facilitates analysis unachievable with macroscopic methods, some three-dimensional characteristics not visible to the naked eye being clearly defined with its use. Emphasis has been placed on the value of SEM as an anthropologist's tool in bone lesion injuries.
Acephate in Biological Fluids of Two Autopsy Cases after Ingestion of the Chemical
Authors: Tanaka T , Tanaka N , Kita T , Kasai K , Sato H 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Two autopsy cases, where the individuals were suspected of having ingested acephate, an organophosphorous insecticide, are reported. Acephate and its active metabolite, methamidophos (MP), were analyzed in the biological fluids by GC/MS, using the salting out method with liquid-liquid extraction columns. The first case was that of a 70-year-old man whose blood acephate was 149μg/mL, and MP was 3.0μg/mL. Serum pseudocholinesterase (ChE) activity was inhibited. No remarkable finding of injury or disease was determined as the cause of his death, but acute poisoning by acephate was mostly suspected. The second case was that of a 60-year-old man. A deep gash in the left neck injured the left common carotid artery in addition to the severely ischemic state of the primary organs. His blood acephate was 46μg/mL, and MP was not detected. ChE activity was in the normal range. Hemorrhage was mainly suspected as the cause of his death. The concentrations of acephate and MP in human blood after oral ingestion are first reported here, and the acute toxic level of acephate is discussed.
Assessing Age-Related Morphology of the Pubic Symphysis from Digital Images Versus Direct Observation
Authors: Sitchon ML , Hoppa RD 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
The increasingly global role of a forensic anthropologist necessitates a proper means for archiving evidence for re-examination. Large quantities of evidence can be stored and be made readily accessible through digital imaging. This study focuses on age assessment from digital photographs for personal identity reconstructions. A comparison of 52 Suchey-Brooks scores assigned to digital images and actual bone revealed that age assessment from digital images can be completed with accuracy. Coefficients of concordance imply that there significant agreement between osteological assessment of aging criteria from digital images and direct observation—greater than random change alone (p&lt;0.05). However, assessments from images should be approached with caution since there are inherent limitations of the naked eye in identifying morphological changes in certain skeletal features, especially where older adults are concerned. Although there is no replacement for a hands-on physical assessment, a digital archive may facilitate the global needs of the forensic anthropologist.
Acute Selenium Poisoning: Suicide by Ingestion
Authors: Hunsaker DM , Spiller HA , Williams D 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Selenium is a ubiquitous element in the environment essential to the human diet and widely utilized in industrial processes. Fatal human selenium intoxication is rare. The authors report a case in which investigators recovered a bottle of gun-bluing agent beside a 24-year-old man. He exhibited signs and symptoms typical of acute selenium intoxication presenting with nausea and vomiting, followed by pulmonary edema and rapid cardiovascular collapse approximately 3 to 4 h after ingestion. Classic electrocardiographic (EKG) changes, which have been reported to occur in acute selenium intoxication, included sinus tachycardia with ST wave alteration. Toxicological results confirmed elevated blood and tissue concentrations. The cause of death was ascribed to acute selenium intoxication, which ensued rapidly after oral consumption. The manner of death was suicide. This case report, which presents an overview of acute and chronic selenium poisoning, underscores the value of thorough toxicologic analyses of tissue and body fluids in humans.
Survey of Physician Members of The American Academy of Forensic Sciences
Authors: Brogdon BG 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
There are approximately 1000 physician members of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) dispersed into all but one of the ten AAFS Sections. Section membership does not necessarily define their disciplines, specialties, interests or activities. A survey was performed to explore the demographics of the physician members and their views on their Sections and the Academy as a whole. The responses were predominantly favorable but some areas of improvement were suggested. The detailed results also indicate the increasing globalization of the physician membership and the catholicity of medicolegal interests.
Frontal Sinuses for Identification: Qualityof Classifications, Possible Error and Potential Corrections
Authors: Cameriere R , Ferrante L , Mirtella D , Rollo FU , Cingolani M 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Many studies have examined the characteristics of the frontal sinuses and their use for forensic purposes, particularly when an individual is edentulous. One of the most widespread classification systems is that proposed by Yoshino et al. The aim of this study was to improve the performance of Yoshino's method for identifying unknown skeletal remains by replacing the first two morphological items, frontal sinus size and bilateral asymmetry, by SOR1 =left frontal sinus area/left orbit area, and SOR2 =right frontal sinus area/right orbit area. According to the bivariate distribution of SOR=(SOR1, SOR2) and available data, we also estimated the probability of positive misclassification.
Evaluation of Sieving Polymers for Fast, Reproducible Electrophoretic Analysis of Short Tandem Repeats (STR) in Capillaries
Authors: Bienvenue JM , Wilson KL , Landers JP , Ferrance JP 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Efficient capillary electrophoretic STR analysis requires rapid, reproducible and robust separation of DNA fragments with reasonable capillary longevity—this is currently accomplished using proprietary commercial polymeric sieving matrices specifically developed for this separation. These matrices, while effective, are costly and do not provide adequate resolution of STR DNA fragments in capillaries with shorter effective separation lengths, increasing the time required to accomplish the separation and minimizing the potential extrapolation to other miniaturized platforms. As the forensic community looks toward next generation microchip technology as a means of processing casework more rapidly, new sieving polymers need to be evaluated for utilization in this platform. The research presented here describes the assessment of commercially-available polymeric sieving matrices for STR analysis, with consideration given to feasibility of incorporation into a microdevice. Polymer composition, molecular weight, and concentration were evaluated, along with an assessment of the effects of buffer composition, separation temperature, and capillary length. These variables were evaluated individually or collectively on the ability to resolve STR DNA fragments and the reproducibility of the separations and the results compared to a proprietary commercial product. A 600,000 Da MW poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) solution at a 3%(w/v) concentration was determined to be the most suitable matrix for these separations. This polymer, in coated capillaries, provided highly robust and reproducible separations, with near baseline resolution of fragments having single base differences. Reductions in the temperature of the separation, from 60°C to 40°C, and the urea concentration of the buffer, from 7 M to 3.5 M, provided increased longevity of the PEO polymer for repeated separations. Comparison of this polymer with currently specified commercial products used for STR analysis showed that the optimized PEO matrix provided superior separations under all conditions tested. In addition, PEO could be utilized in shorter capillary systems, with a concurrent decrease in analysis time, highlighting its potential for use in shortened capillary or microdevice systems.
Forensic Discrimination of Match Heads by Elemental Analysis with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry
Authors: Kasamatsu M , Suzuki Y , Sugita R , Suzuki S 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
In arson and bombing cases, matches are often used as the ignition method. We have investigated the use of elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry to discriminate match heads used in arson cases. Six elements, magnesium, aluminum, calcium, iron, zinc, and barium, in match heads were detected after the match heads were dissolved in HNO3, and these elements were quantified in 8 wood stick matches and 5 paper stick matches by means of calibration curves prepared from standard sample solutions. Using this method, we were able to distinguish all the matches from one another both before and after combustion. The method has the potential to be very useful for resolving arson cases.
STR-Typing of Human DNA from Human Fecal Matter Using the QIAGEN QIAamp® Stool Mini Kit
Authors: Johnson DJ , Martin RL , Roberts KA 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of the QIAGEN QIAamp® Stool Mini Kit against a standard phenolchloroform procedure for the extraction, quantitation, and STR-typing of human nuclear DNA from human feces. Stools from six subjects were sampled by swabbing and excision. Samples extracted with the QIAamp kit gave a wide range of DNA yields, whereas those extracted by the organic method yielded no DNA. DNA was not recovered from one subject's stools by either procedure. The QIAamp extracts were amplified with the Profiler Plus™ and COfiler™ kits, and PCR inhibition was observed with DNA extracts that were further concentrated. Substitution of water or TE-4 for the QIAamp elution buffer eliminated most, if not all, of the inhibition. A modified QIAamp procedure was used to extract thirty samples, which were subjected to one of five environmental conditions. DNA was recovered from all of these samples, and typing results were obtained on 93% of the samples.
Decision Analysis in Forensic Science
Authors: Taroni F , Bozza S , Aitken C 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Forensic scientists are routinely faced with the problems of making decisions under circumstances of uncertainty (i.e., to perform or not perform a test). A decision making model in forensic science is proposed, illustrated with an example from the field of forensic genetics. The approach incorporates available evidence and associated uncertainties with the assessment of utilities (or desirability of the consequences). The paper examines a general example for which identification will be made of the decision maker, the possible actions, the uncertain states of nature, the possible source of evidence and the kind of utility assessments required. It is argued that a formal approach can help to clarify the decision process and give a coherent means of combining elements to reach a decision.
The Identification of Isopar H in Vinyl Flooring
Authors: Wells SB 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Vinyl flooring manufacturers use plasticizers to decrease the viscosity and increase the pliability of vinyl. Several ignitable liquid plasticizers used in the manufacture of vinyl flooring were identified and investigated in this study. Twenty-nine collections from five major vinyl manufacturers, a total of 72 samples, were analyzed using passive headspace concentration in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM E 1412-00) and gas chromatographic-mass spectrometric (GC-MS) analysis as described in ASTM E 1618-01 (1,2). Norpar products and TXIB (2,2,4-trimethyl-1,3-pentanediol diisobutyrate) are ignitable liquids common to the manufacture of vinyl flooring and were identified in all recently obtained samples. Isopar H is an ignitable liquid found in various products such as charcoal starters, copier toners, and some solvents (2). Of the 29 collections analyzed, Isopar H was only identified in Armstrong's Interflex-Traditions pattern.
Maintenance of the ENFSI Proficiency Test Program on Identification of GSR by SEM/EDX (GSR2003)
Authors: Niewoehner L , Andrasko J , Biegstraaten J , Gunaratnam L , Steffen S , Uhlig S 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Within the framework of the ENFSI Expert Working Group “Firearms,” every second year, a proficiency test on the detection and identification of GSR by SEM/EDX is carried out. This proficiency test is a development and extension of the previous proficiency test GSR2001. The test material was again designed by the organization panel and manufactured by an external company for SEM accessories. This time the participating laboratories were requested to determine the total number of PbSbBa containing particles on a test sample following their own laboratory specific methods of automated GSR particle search and detection by SEM/EDX. One synthetic particle sample (SPS) with artificial GSR particles was dispatched to all participants. This paper summarizes the results of the study and assesses the overall performance of the participating laboratories. Furthermore an extended statistical evaluation and a comparison with previous studies was carried out.
A Study of Business Letter Features
Authors: Lines SR , Carodine RB 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
As part of their work, forensic document examiners examine word processed letters. The purpose of this study, the first of its kind, was to determine how common or rare certain features are in word-processed business letters and if any of these features could determine the author or source. Initially, 114 original business letters were obtained that were dated from 1999 through 2003. Specific features of the letters were selected for examination. These features were letter format, type style, the point size of the font, margin spacing to ascertain the use or nonuse of the default margins for Word (1.25 in. nonjustified) and the default margins for WordPerfect (1 in. nonjustified). In addition, the research involved the examination of the right margins to determine if they were justified or not and the use of the comma or colon in the salutation of the letter. The features of each letter were independently examined by the authors and the findings documented. As expected, several features were found to be very common. For example, full block format was used on 48% of the letters followed by the semi-block with 39%. The Times Family of fonts was used on 67% of the letters. Font point size 12 was the most popular with 70%. The nonjustified default margins were widespread with 67% and the colon was the overwhelming favorite in the salutation with 79%. There were some unexpected findings that could possibly lead to the identification of a source or typist.
Fatalities By Ingestion of Propylene Glycol
Authors: deRoux SJ , Marker E , Stajic M 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Propylene glycol (PG), a widely used solvent and lubricant, is thought to have low toxicity when ingested. Three cases were identified where PG, either alone or in combination with other chemical agents, contributed to death. The decedent in whom PG was the sole agent was a 32-year-old schizophrenic man with cardiomegaly and renal impairment. The blood PG concentration was 4410 mg/L at least 9.5 h following ingestion.
Blunt Force Injury of the Abdomen Complicating Previously Undiagnosed Peliosis Hepatis in a 2-Year-Old Female
Authors: Pasquale-Styles MA , Schmidt CJ 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Peliosis hepatis is an abnormal accumulation of blood-filled lakes in the liver that is most commonly seen in adults and is generally associated with chronic wasting diseases, use of androgenic steroids or bacterial infection. Few cases have been reported in children.We report a case of a 2-year-old female with no past medical history who presented with homicidal blunt force abdominal injury. The autopsy revealed lacerations in the liver and previously undiagnosed peliosis hepatis. 1 Wayne County Medical Examiner Office, 1300 East Warren Avenue, Detroit, MI 48207.
Forensic Applications of Infrared Chemical Imaging: Multi-Layered Paint Chips
Authors: Flynn K , O'Leary R , Lennard C , Roux C , Reedy BJ 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
This paper examines the potential of infrared chemical (hyperspectral) imaging as a technique for the forensic analysis of automotive paint chips in particular, and multicomponent (e.g., layered) samples in general. Improved sample preparation procedures for the infrared analysis of paint chips are detailed, with the recommendation that where mounting resins are chemically incompatible with the sample, it is better to mount and section the sample in a soft wax from which the sections can be removed and pressed into a KBr disk for transmission analysis. Infrared chemical images of multilayered paint chips have been successfully obtained, with the chief advantage over conventional infrared analysis being that thousands of infrared spectra are collected in a few minutes across the whole sample, at a spatial resolution of around 5 µm. As with conventional infrared spectroscopy, chemical species can be identified from their spectra, but the wealth of information available can be also extracted in a number of different ways that make multicomponent spectral (and hence chemical) comparisons between two samples easy to visualize and understand. In one approach, the infrared chemical images of two paint chips being compared side-by-side can be viewed as a “movie,” in which each frame is an intensity map of the two samples at a given wavenumber (frequency) value. In another approach, the spectra (pixels) in the image files are classified into chemically similar groups, resulting in a “cluster” image that makes it possible to simultaneously compare all of the layers in two paint chips. These methods are applicable to other multicomponent samples, and also to other chemical imaging techniques
Suicide by Inhalation of Carbon Monoxide in a Residential Fire
Authors: Sauvageau A , Racette S , Yesovitch R 
Published: May 2005

Abstract
Fire deaths are usually accidental, but atypical cases of homicide or suicide have been described. In suicide by fire, the only method reported by several authors consists of self-immolation. We present here the unusual case of an adult female who committed suicide by waiting in the living room after setting fire to her bedroom. The autopsy revealed smoke inhalation and the toxicological analysis revealed carboxyhemoglobin levels of 67%. Very few cases of suicide by fire not of the self-immolation type have been reported, and all have been anecdotal. A review of the literature is presented and a new term, “suicide by inhalation of carbon monoxide in a fire,” is proposed for such cases.