Showing papers in "Journal of Forensic Sciences in 1988"

Operational Criteria for the Determination of Suicide

Abstract: Suicide is an important public health problem for which we have an inadequate public health database. In the United States, decisions about whether deaths are listed as suicides on death certificates are usually made by a coroner or medical examiner. These certification decisions are frequently marked by a lack of consistency and clarity, and laws and procedures for guiding these decisions vary from state to state and even from county to county. Without explicit criteria to aid in this decision making, coroners or medical examiners may be more susceptible to pressures from families or communities not to certify specific deaths as suicide. In addition, coroners or medical examiners may certify similar deaths differently at different times. The degree to which suicides may be underreported or misclassified is unknown. This makes it impossible to estimate accurately the number of deaths by suicide, to identify risk factors, or to plan and evaluate preventive interventions. To remedy these problems, a working group representing coroners, medical examiners, statisticians, and public health agencies developed operational criteria to assist in the determination of suicide. These criteria are based on a definition of suicide as “death arising from an act inflicted upon oneself with the intent to kill oneself.” The purpose of these criteria is to improve the validity and reliability of suicide statistics by: (1) promoting consistent and uniform classifications; (2) making the criteria for decision making in death certification explicit; (3) increasing the amount of information used in decision making; (4) aiding certifiers in exercising their professional judgment; and (5) establishing common standards of practice for the determination of suicide.

Designer drugs: past history and future prospects.

Abstract: Historically, drugs of abuse have come from two sources: plant products and diverted pharmaceuticals. Today, new, totally synthetic drugs produced by clandestine laboratories have become an increasingly important source of abused substances. Of particular concern are the fentanyls, a family of very potent narcotic analgesics, which first appeared on the streets in California in 1979 under the name "China White". At least 10 different analogs have been identified to date and are thought to be responsible for over 100 overdose deaths. The fentanyls are not used by any particular ethic or age group, but rather by the general heroin using population. Their use, however, does seem to be restricted to suburban, rather than urban areas, and almost exclusively to the state of California. The most potent analogs, the 3-methyl- and beta-hydroxy-fentanyls, may be up to 1000 times as potent as heroin, but are not chemically related to the opiates and therefore not detected by conventional narcotic screening tests. However, using a sensitive radioimmunoassay highly specific for the fentanyls they can be measured at the very low concentrations observed in body fluids, generally less than 10 ng/mL. It is likely that, as efforts to restrict the importation of natural products and prevent diversion of pharmaceuticals become more effective, the fentanyls and other synthetics will become increasingly important drugs of abuse.

Tooth mark artifacts and survival of bones in animal scavenged human skeletons

Abstract: Animal scavenging activity can result in production of tooth mark artifacts Such activity can confound interpretation of skeletal material and the identification process To date, these topics have received limited attention in the forensic science literature This study discusses the nature of various animal tooth mark artifacts and typical damage to selected bony elements This study also assesses survivability of various skeletal elements over time Two major factors that affect which bones are recovered and the amount of damage are circumstances which shelter remains from animals and human population density of the area where the skeleton is recovered

Individuality of human palatal rugae

Abstract: Investigators have implied that palatal rugae are unique to each individual. However, these researchers have disagreed as to whether or not legal identification could be based solely on palatal rugae. Previous studies used poor duplicating materials and may not have considered the effects of growth, extractions, palatal expansion, or some combination of these. The inadvertent use of other features of the cast, such as teeth, edentulous ridge morphology, muscle attachments, vestibular depth, or some combination of these, to aid in the identification, may have influenced their results. The purpose of this investigation was to determine if palatal rugae can be relied upon for identification. Twenty-five orthodontic cases were selected with pre- and post-treatment casts; orthodontic treatment had taken eighteen to sixty months. One hundred casts were randomly selected as variables. All casts were trimmed so that all areas except for the rugae area of the hard palate were removed. The twenty-five post-orthodontic casts were dispersed within 100 randomly selected casts. Nine investigators were given the twenty-five pre-orthodontic casts and asked to compare them to the other one hundred and twenty-five casts for possible matches. Data were collected as to percentage of correct matches and time required for comparison. Each set of pre- and post-orthodontic casts was properly identified (100%) by 8 investigators, and the remaining investigator correctly matched 22 out of 25 casts (88%). These conclusions were drawn.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Estimating actual height in the older individual

Abstract: The widely used formulas for estimating adult stature require modification of the estimated height to account for the effects of age. The recording of measured and reported height in a living older population from southern Arizona, in conjunction with bone mineralization monitoring, provides an opportunity to test the currently used correction factor. Loss of height appears to commence around the age of 45, and the average rate of loss is relatively rapid at 0.16 cm per year. The correction factor suggested by this study is 0.16(age--45), subtracted from the maximum height. The loss is also affected by the maximum height of the individual. In cases of low bone mineralization, the increased incidence of vertebral crush fractures may cause further reductions in standing height. The low rate of recognition of height changes among the older community lowers the usefulness of the age adjusted height estimate. It is recommended that both the maximum and age adjusted heights be provided in forensic science reports to aid in matching with missing person reports.

Patterns in sharp force fatalities--a comprehensive forensic medical study: Part 2. Suicidal sharp force injury in the Stockholm area 1972-1984.

Abstract: A total of 89 cases of sharp force suicide that had been committed in the Stockholm area in Sweden from 1972 through 1984 were investigated. The series showed a male preponderance, sex ratio 3.3, and among males a shift towards the age group 40 to 49 years of age. An impact of cultural/ethnic factors was indicated by the overrepresentation of Finnish and Hungarian immigrants. A psychiatric diagnosis had been ascribed in 22 cases, and addiction to drugs or alcohol in 23. Previous attempts at self-destruction were recorded in 11 cases, only 1 of which was by sharp force. Classical indicators of suicidal intent, for example, suicide notes and the presence of hesitation injuries, were found in 28 and 80%, respectively. A preference for certain anatomical locations (throat, precordium, epigastrium, wrists) was confirmed as was the tendency to expose the skin before inflicting suicidal wounds. As compared to homicidal precordial stabs whose entrance wounds usually run vertically, horizontal or upwards/left-slanting stabs are strongly suggestive of suicide. Although cases were encountered where several "rules of thumb" concerning homicidal versus suicidal patterns were violated, our series contained no case of injuries to the backside of the trunk and no case of more than one wound piercing the left ventricle of the heart. Multiple chest wounds transecting costal or sternal bone were however not uncommon, and, along with the use of bizarre tools and objects like wood chisels or pieces of glass, illustrated the determination of suicidal intent. Toxicological analysis was positive for drugs in 22 and for alcohol in 27 cases. Blood alcohol levels were roughly similar to those found in victims of homicidal sharp force, whereas drug levels tended to be lower or higher in suicides.

Chromatographic and spectroscopic profiles of Cannabis of different origins: Part I.

Abstract: High-resolution capillary gas chromatography with flame ionization detection and mass spectrometry (GC and GC/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were used to establish complex chemical profiles (chemical signatures) of Cannabis samples of known origin Over 100 compounds could be differentiated, including noncannabinoids (terpenes, alkanes) as well as minor and major cannabinoids and their acids A characteristic peak pattern was found within a limited number of specimens of identical origin Correlation studies on the basis of peak area ratios [A(x)/A(is)] showed the feasibility of tracing Cannabis chemically to its country of origin Several forensic science applications for the chromatographic and spectroscopic profiles of confiscated Cannabis samples are discussed, such as detection of additives (phencyclidine), differentiation of chemotypes, and monitoring of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) potency

The Autodegradation of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) in Human Rib Bone and Its Relationship to the Time Interval Since Death

Abstract: This research explored the feasibility of using the degradation rate of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in human rib bone to determine the time interval since death. Postmortem human rib samples were surface sterilized and incubated under sterile conditions in either high or low humidity conditions at room temperature for a period of weeks. At selected times, portions of the bone were cut away, and the DNA from these samples was extracted and subjected to strand separating gel electrophoresis. The DNAs in the gels were transferred to a nylon membrane, preserving their relative positions as in the gel, and probed with radioactive total genomic human DNA. Autoradiograms produced were scanned and digitized. When the samples were incubated under identical conditions, the degradation rate of DNA in samples from different individuals appeared very similar. The DNA degradation rate may vary with temperature and humidity more than it varies between individuals.

Confidence intervals for estimates based on linear regression in forensic anthropology.

Abstract: Forensic anthropologists commonly use simple linear regression to estimate the value of a dependent variable, such as stature, for a single specimen where the value of the independent variable, such as humerus length, is known. Published studies providing regression equations for such use almost invariably include the standard error of estimate. Unfortunately, it is exceptional for forensic anthropologists to use the standard error to calculate correctly the confidence limits for their single predicted value. We attempt to show why this may be and provide explicit guidelines for the proper construction of confidence interval in such circumstances.

Gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric analysis of morphine and codeine in human urine of poppy seed eaters.

Abstract: In this study, poppy seeds were examined for a natural constituent that might serve as a maker for the seeds' ingestion as opposed to opiate abuse. Thebaine was selected as possible marker, since it was found to be a component of all poppy seeds examined and was not a natural component of different heroin samples. During the course of this investigation, a new extraction and cleanup procedure was developed for the gas chromatographic/nitrogen phosphorus detection (GC/NPD) and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) analysis of morphine and codeine in urine. A linear response, over a concentration range of 25 to 600 ng/mL, was obtained for codeine and morphine (r = 0.9982 and 0.9947, respectively). The minimum detectable level (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) for morphine were 10 and 30 ng/mL, respectively; whereas LOD and LOQ for codeine were 2 and 8 ng/mL, respectively. The coefficients of variance (CV, n = 6) for morphine and codeine analyses at the 100-ng/mL level were 13.3 and 4.6%, respectively. This procedure was used for the analysis of urine samples from five poppy seed eaters who each ingested 200 g of poppy seed cake. Results indicated that significant amounts of morphine and codeine are excreted in urine and that in all subjects, at least at one point in time, the apparent morphine concentration as determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA) analysis exceeded the cutoff value (300 ng/mL) established for screening. Thebaine was not detected in urine specimens collected following poppy seeds ingestion and thus could not be used as a marker.

Failure of Use of Cemental Annulations in Teeth to Determine the Age of Humans

Abstract: The reliability of cemental annulation counts in teeth was examined to determine its value as an age indicator for humans One hundred extracted human teeth were embedded in polyester casting resin and sectioned using a diamond wafering saw Thin sections were photomicrographed, projected, and counted in a double blind random method of presentation The age of the specimen was determined by adding the number of cemental annulations counted by the observers and the eruption age of the specific tooth that was used The data analyzed by simple regression indicated that determining chronologic age in humans from cemental annulations is not possible

Classification and Discrimination of Sheet and Container Glasses by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry and Pattern Recognition

Abstract: Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometric determination of the concentrations of aluminum, barium, calcium, iron, magnesium, managanese, sodium, strontium, and titanium in 184 colorless container and sheet glasses was used to evaluate classification procedures for these two classes of glass. Effective two-dimensional visualization of the classification results is afforded by principal components analysis of the data with correct classification of 180 of the 184 samples. Good discrimination among sources of glass within a class is provided using hierarchical, unsupervised clustering. Individual manufacturing plants of a common container glass can be distinguished in most instances.

Drug use by tractor-trailer drivers

Abstract: Blood or urine samples or both were obtained from 317 of 359 randomly selected tractor-trailer drivers asked to participate in a driver health survey conducted at a truck weighing station on Interstate 40 in Tennessee. Altogether, 29% of the drivers had evidence of alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, prescription or nonprescription stimulants, or some combination of these, in either blood or urine. Cannabinoids were found in 15% of the drivers' blood or urine; nonprescription stimulants such as phenylpropanolamine were found in 12%; prescription stimulants such as amphetamine were found in 5%; cocaine metabolites were found in 2%; and alcohol was found in less than 1%. These results provide the first objective information about the use of potentially abusive drugs by tractor-trailer drivers. The extent of driver impairment attributable to the observed drugs is uncertain because of the complex relationship between performance and drug concentrations.

An Assessment of the Value of Blue, Red, and Black Cotton Fibers as Target Fibers in Forensic Science Investigations

Abstract: Color is the primary characteristic used for comparing cotton fibers. Problems arising because of considerable intrasample variation may cause difficulty in assessing the matching of cotton fibers in a casework situation. Because of the number of dye classes used on cotton fibers, dye extraction and examination by thin-layer chromatography are more problematical than with other fiber types. This necessitates greater reliance on microspectrophotometry and fluorescence microscopy for dye comparison. Fibers from blue denim cannot generally be discriminated and are regarded as having little evidential value. Little or no published data exist on the evidential value of cotton fibers of other colors. This study was designed to assess the value of nondenim blue, red, and black cotton fibers as evidence. Of each color 46 samples were chosen at random (giving a total of 1035 comparisons per color). The number of matching pairs was established after using comparison microscopy, microspectrophotometry, and fluorescence microscopy. Some blue denim cotton fibers were also examined. Complementary chromaticity coordinates were computed for all samples. The results show that, provided adequate techniques are used to compare nondenim blue, red, and black cotton fibers, the chance of finding pairs with matching dyes by coincidence is low despite considerable color overlap. Black cotton fibers represent poorer value as evidence than either nondenim blue or red cotton fibers.

Repetitive Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) and Human Genome Variation--A Concise Review Relevant to Forensic Biology

Abstract: The various classes of human repetitive deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) are described, with particular emphasis being given to their variation in the human genome. The significance of this information to forensic science is discussed.

The Bite Mark Standard Reference Scale--ABFO No. 2.

Abstract: A scale of spatial reference for bite mark photography has been developed and evaluated. The scale incorporates both linear and circular graduations to meet the diverse needs of practicing forensic odontologists in the rectification and measurement of photographically recorded bite marks. Its unique L-shaped configuration ensures accurate scaling in both the vertical and horizontal directions and facilitates the gridding of photographs to correct for distortional errors created by oblique camera angles. This paper describes the design and constructional features of the scale and offers guidelines for its effective application to bite mark photography.

Barefoot impressions--a preliminary study of identification characteristics and population frequency of their morphological features.

Abstract: Footprint impressions of 107 male adults ranging in age from 19 to 67 years were recorded and examined. Included in this study were foot impressions from a pair of monozygotic twins as well. The impressions were recorded and converted into a set of indices which essentially are width-versus-length ratios of prominent features of the human foot. These indices were then correlated to yield probability values for use in this study and for comparison to data published by previous investigators Qamra, Abbott, Lovejoy, Cassidy, and Robbins. Friction ridge minutae were not considered in this study. Crease marks, well impressions, and toe step measurements were considered, but not incorporated in the probability values, because of the unique aspect of these features and the inability, at present, to convert these features to mathematical indices. These features do, however, introduce a subjective nature to the analysis scheme. This study uses the combined index probabilities of foot impressions so that the data generated can be used to assign a given probability that a particular foot impression, even without clear definable individual features, can be linked to the person who made the impression.

A report on the use of Fully's anatomical method to estimate stature in military skeletal remains.

Abstract: The present study applies two methods of estimating living stature from long limb bones to a sample of military remains. Preliminary results comparing the relative accuracy of the two methods are presented.

Extractive Alkylation and Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Sulfide

Abstract: A sensitive analysis of sulfide in blood was established, using an extractive alkylation technique. Pentafluorobenzyl bromide was used as the alkylating agent, tetradecyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride as the phase-transfer catalyst, and potassium dihydrogenphosphate as the buffer to suppress the formation of sulfide. Mass fragmentography was used to identify the sulfide derivative and gas chromatography with an electron capture detector was used for quantitative determination, with the lowest limit of detection being about 0.01 microgram/g. The blood level of rats exposed to hydrogen sulfide was also determined.

3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and other amphetamine derivatives

Abstract: As various substances of abuse come under Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Schedule restrictions, slightly modified derivatives (designer drugs) replace them. A series of amphetamine derivatives are discussed in this presentation. Applicable analytical methods are presented. Details of cases handled by the office (hospital patients, driving while under the influence/driving under the influence of drugs [DWI/DUID], and medical examiner cases) are discussed.

Racial identification from the midfacial skeleton with special reference to American Indians and whites.

Abstract: Successful approaches to race determination of unidentified human remains have been developed by anatomists and physical anthropologists, but few quantitative methods are available for distinguishing American Indian crania from those of whites. The leading method in use today is particularly ineffective in its placement of American Indian skulls from the western regions of the United States. Recent development and testing of a new metric method suggests a much more effective technique. The method involves six breadth and projection measurements of the midfacial skeleton, the calculation of three indices, and a simple direct reading of results. The method has the additional advantage of use in the autopsy room with minimal dissection of soft tissue required. Based upon a less extensive test of East Asian and Arctic Mongoloid crania, the method appears to be even more effective in separating them from the sharp featured whites. Larger samples of American blacks and Polynesians are presently under study and these also appear to separate quite readily from whites using the same or similar sectioning values.

Cocaine and homicide in Memphis and Shelby county: an epidemic of violence.

Abstract: In Memphis and the surrounding county, there were a record number of homicides (179) in 1986. During the same year, there was a marked increase in medical examiner cases where tests were positive for cocaine or its metabolites. Review of medical examiner and toxicology records from 1980 to 1986 found 87 cocaine related deaths; 46 of these were homicides. In 1986 alone, there were 53 cocaine related deaths, all manners, and 31 cocaine related homicides. In this year, 17.3% of the homicides were positive for cocaine or metabolite. The cocaine related homicides were similar to other homicides in terms of age, race, sex, blood ethanol concentration, and cause of death being due most often to firearms. In homicide cases in which an abuse drug was detected, cocaine accounted for the entire increase in 1986. Police records indicated that cocaine directly contributed to the homicide in 39% of the cases in which the drug was found. In other cases, we speculate that cocaine altered behavior may have contributed to the victim's being murdered either during the drug "high" or during the posteuphoric depression or withdrawal phase.

The examination of illicit cocaine.

Abstract: A laboratory system of examination of illicit cocaine exhibits is described. Separation and identification of many of the components in exhibits are achieved by the use of capillary column gas chromatography and a Finnigan ion trap detector. Further examination and quantitation of the components of exhibits is achieved using two high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) systems. Both of these systems use identical reverse phase C8 columns. System 1 employs a solvent composed of 40% acetonitrile, 10% tetrahydrofuran and 50% 0.1% v/v aqueous triethylamine. The eluant is monitored at 280 nm. This system is preferred for routine quantitative analysis of cocaine and related alkaloids in exhibits. System 2 employs a solvent composed of 30% acetonitrile and 70% 0.05M phosphate buffer (pH = 5.0). The eluant from this system is monitored at both 220 and 280 nm. This system offers advantages in sensitivity. The relative retention times of a number of relevant substances as determined with gas chromatography and the two HPLC systems are given. The utility of the methodology for the identification and comparison of exhibits is demonstrated.

A fatality involving U4Euh, a cyclic derivative of phenylpropanolamine.

Abstract: A fatality following ingestion of diazepam and 4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-5-phenyl-2-oxazolamine, a cyclic derivative of phenylpropanolamine known as U4EuH or 4-methyl aminorex, is described Solid dosage samples of U4EuH were analyzed using gas chromatography, ultraviolet and infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectrometry Physiological fluids were analyzed quantitatively by gas chromatography and qualitatively by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry Concentrations of 4,5-dihydro-4-methyl-5-phenyl-2-oxazolamine were: in blood 213 mg/L; in urine 123 mg/L Diazepam concentration in blood was 08 mg/L

The Morphology and Evidential Significance of Human Hair Roots

Abstract: A discussion of the morphology of human hair roots is presented. In addition to descriptions of variants of the root appearance for hairs removed from follicles in the three classical growth phases, several other commonly occurring root configurations are described and illustrated with photomicrographs. The possible evidential significance of each in certain case situations is discussed.

Determination of Barium in Gunshot Residue Collection Swabs Using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry

Abstract: Inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) was compared with atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) for barium determination in gunshot residue (GSR) collection swabs. Lack of interferences by common swab extract constituents, a wide linear dynamic range, and good precision and accuracy of ICP-AES make it superior to AAS for barium determination in GSR swab extracts.

Age related changes in the human plastron: a roentgenographic and morphologic study.

Abstract: Characteristic changes that can be demonstrated on roentgenograms occur with increasing age in the plastron (chest plate) of humans. These alterations include progressive ossification in the costal cartilages (located characteristically in the sternal rib end, centrichondrally, and peristernally--often with sex and age distinctive patterns), maturation of the newly formed bone with trabeculation formation, loss of the smooth contour of the costo-manubrial junction, cupping of rib ends, osteoporotic changes, and arthritic changes in the sternal head of the clavicles. The sequence of development of these alterations has been examined by X-ray of 1965 cadavers of 15 years of age or over and correlated with the gross bone and cartilage morphology changes in many cases. This technique allows for age determination within 5 years of real age in 55% of cadavers and within 25% of real age in 95% of all cadavers. The greatest departures from real age are in the over-60-year groups. The same roentgenograms can allow for correct sex prediction in 99% of the population.

The Appropriate Educational Background for Entry Level Forensic Scientists: A Survey of Practitioners

Abstract: To assess the need to modify its forensic science degree programs, the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University surveyed some of its own students majoring in Forensic Science, the forensic scientists working for the Michigan State Police, and the membership of the American Society of Crime Lab Directors. The results of the surveys showed the educational background most preferred for a carreer in forensic science would consist of a B.S. degree which has a major chemistry component and a Master of Science in Forensic Science. Personal comments sent back with some of the surveys also suggested the need for a strong background in chemistry. Survey results and personal comments also showed a general disdain for the B.S. in Forensic Science as the terminal degree unless it has a strong hard science component.

The use of histomorphology to estimate age.

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the major factors that can affect age-at-death predictions when using histomorphological methods. Although evidence suggests that some of the currently available methods are more reliable and accurate, and there are a number of factors other than chronological age that can affect bone remodeling, histomorphological methods, when properly applied, are valuable tools for anthropology and forensic medicine. It is suggested that both accuracy and reliability are maximized when the histomorphometrics of as many anatomical sampling sites as possible are sampled and the resultant ages are averaged.

Dye Batch Variation in Textile Fibers

Abstract: Fiber samples from a number of different sources have been examined for dye batch variation. The manufacturers who supplied material included producers of knitting yarn, clothing, carpets, and car seat covers. Microscopy, microspectrophotometry, and thin-layer chromatography have been used for comparison of the dyes. Degrees of variation were found. With some knitting yarns there was none at all, but some clothing fabrics showed large differences. Thin-layer chromatography is the best means of discriminating between dyes extracted from these materials. The reasons for these results and their implications for the court-going officer are discussed.