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This page shows you the most recent publications within this specialty of the MedWorm directory. This is page number 37.

Y chromosome STR allelic and haplotype diversity in a Rwanda population from East Central Africa
Abstract: We have analyzed 17 Y-chromosomal STR loci in a population sample of 69 unrelated male individuals of the Rwanda-Hutu population from East Central Africa using an AmpFlSTR® Yfiler™ PCR amplification kit. A total of 62 unique haplotypes were identified among the 69 individuals studied. The haplotype diversity was found to be 0.9970 for this population. The gene diversity ranged from 0.1130 (DYS392) to 0.7722 (DYS385). Comparison of populations in this study with twenty-five other national and global populations using Principal Co-ordinate Analysis (PCA) and phylogenetic molecular analysis using a genetic distan...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Kuppareddi Balamurugan, George Duncan Tags: Announcement of Population Data Source Type: research

Diagnosis of aortic dextroposition on human skeletal remains
Abstract: The fine macroscopic observation of a young adult female skeleton recovered from a Roman graveyard in Romania revealed distinctive flattening of the vertebra related to a right-sided aorta. Associated bone anomalies may be related to a Kartagener syndrome.This case highlights the fact that visceral anomalies may be diagnosed even on skeletal remains. Such lesions could be useful for osteo-archaeologists, of course, but also for forensic anthropologist investigators dealing with skeletonized remains (for example during the identification process of a dead body, through comparison with known medical data for missin...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Philippe Charlier, Georgică Costea, Isabelle Huynh-Charlier, Luc Brun, Geoffroy Lorin de la Grandmaison Tags: Brief Communication Source Type: research

Rapid and reliable screening method for detection of 70 pesticides in whole blood by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry using a constructed calibration-locking database
We examined the applicability of the constructed database by analyzing whole blood samples spiked with 70 pesticides. The pesticides in blood were extracted with hexane under acidic conditions or with an enhanced polymer column (Focus™), subjected to GC–MS, and screened by the pesticides database. Among the 70 pesticides examined, 66 and 62 were successfully identified at the level of 1 and 0.1μg/ml, respectively, by hexane and 63 and 51 were identified by the Focus column without the use of standard compounds. The time required for data analysis was significantly reduced. Since the established method can produce qual...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Keiko Kudo, Kumi Nagamatsu, Takahiro Umehara, Yosuke Usumoto, Naomi Sameshima, Akiko Tsuji, Noriaki Ikeda Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Verification of eye and skin color predictors in various populations
Abstract: Validation of testing methods is an essential feature in all scientific endeavors, but it is particularly important in forensics. Due to the sensitive nature of these investigations and the limited sample size it is crucial to validate all employed procedures. This includes novel forensic phenotypic DNA tests, to learn more of their capabilities and limitations before incorporating them as routine methods. Ideally, validations are performed on large sample sets that mimic real cases.Recently, three phenotypic predictors, two for eye colors and one for skin color have been published (Spichenok et al., 2011; Walsh ...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Amanda Pneuman, Zoran M. Budimlija, Theresa Caragine, Mechthild Prinz, Elisa Wurmbach Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

Molecular biological analysis of cardiac effect of high temperature in rats
Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate direct effects of heat exposure on the heart molecular-biologically and pathohistologically, using rats exposed to high temperatures. The mRNA expression of natriuretic peptide type A (Nppa), natriuretic peptide type B (Nppb), actin alpha 1 skeletal muscle (Acta1), myosin heavy polypeptide 6 cardiac muscle alpha (Myh6) and myosin heavy polypeptide 7 cardiac muscle alpha (Myh7) was determined in the hearts of the rats. Whereas the expression of Nppa and Nppb rapidly increased immediately after the heat exposure, the expression of Acta1 was gradually reduced, which indicated...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Yasuhisa Nakagawa, Hiromasa Inoue, Kotaro Shinone, Mayumi Ikemura, Masayuki Nata Tags: Original Articles Source Type: research

The post mortem temperature plateau and its role in the estimation of time of death. A review
Abstract: The purpose of this paper was to examine evidence to seek an explanation of the possible cause(s) or contributing factors to the temperature plateau phenomenon and its influence on time of death (TOD) estimation. The concept of the temperature plateau effect (TPE) is reviewed, and investigation is conducted into its possible prediction under post mortem conditions. The conclusion of this paper is that the appearance of a TPE in postmortem body core temperature decay curves is currently random and cannot be predicted. This unpredictability is based upon the interindividual differences in states (core body temperat...
Source: Legal Medicine - January 30, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Jimmy L. Smart, Michał Kaliszan Tags: Review Article Source Type: research

Timing and sequence of emergence of permanent teeth in the Jordanian population
Conclusions: The first standards of timing and sequence of permanent tooth emergence specific to the Jordanian population were provided and found to be consistent with those of Caucasian populations. These standards aid managing patients in paediatric dentistry, planning orthodontic therapy and forensic age estimation.
Source: Archives of Oral Biology - January 29, 2012 Category: Dentistry Authors: Ashraf I. Shaweesh Tags: Tooth Biology Source Type: research

Alcimedes
The dubiously-named practice of “Honour Attacks,” which can range from beatings to murder, has once again hit the headlines. A recent Freedom of Information (FOI) study by the Iranian and Kurdish Women’s Rights Organisation (IKWRO) has concluded that the number of such attacks in the UK has increased to 2823 in the past year. Causes for the attacks include refusing an arranged marriage, having a relationship of which the family disapproves, being the victim of a sexual assault, and seeking a divorce.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Accidental penetrating brain injury through anterior fontanelle: A rare phenomenon
This report of a 7-month-old male infant, whose father was working with a knife which accidentally slipped from his hand and penetrated the infants anterior fontanelle and frontal lobe, demonstrates that accidental injuries may also occur rarely.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Shahbaz H. Faridi, V.K. Srivastava, M.F. Hoda, Mohd Khalid Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Unusual case of right atrial reinfarction
Abstract: It is well known that atrial infarctions are rare comparing to the ventricular. They cannot easily be verified on ECG and the standard autopsy technique does not include a detailed review of the atrial wall, so the atrial infarction often remains undiagnosed. A 63-year-old male was treated and died in an intensive care unit due to decompensated liver insufficiency and cardiac disease following long-lasting alcohol abuse. At autopsy, the extreme cardiomegaly was found, severe atherosclerosis of the anterior descending branch of left coronary artery. The posterior wall of the right atrium was thickened (cca 9 mm) ...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Nemanja Radojevic, Slobodan Savic, Vuk Aleksic, Dragana Cukic Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Fatal idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis in association with pregnancy – Medico-legal evaluation
Abstract: Idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis is a rare disorder characterised by repeated episodes of intra-alveolar bleeding in association with consecutive anaemia, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension and respiratory failure. Pregnancy may exacerbate the symptoms of idiopathic pulmonary haemosiderosis typically worsening in the third trimester. A 32-year-old female after delivery was admitted to hospital with progressive dyspnoea of about 1-month duration. Sudden circulatory collapse caused fatal complication. During the post-mortem investigation, lung haemorrhage and histologically abundant iron deposition in ma...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Klára Törő, Irén Herjavecz, Edit Vereckei, Margit Kovács Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

The value of radiocarbon analysis in determining the forensic interest of human skeletal remains found in unusual circumstances
This report illustrates the use of radiocarbon analysis in establishing whether the human remains are contemporary or not and describes evidence for what appears to be an historic clandestine grave.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Hugo F.V. Cardoso, Katerina Puentes, António Monge Soares, Agostinho Santos, Teresa Magalhães Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

What may be happen after an organophosphate exposure: Acute myocardial infarction?
Abstract: The increase in accidental organophosphate poisoning as well as the rise in the number of cases of suicide attempts with organophosphate compounds is due to primarily to the widespread use of these compounds in agriculture. Organophosphates are anti-acetycholinesterase agents and their toxicity affects many organs, including the pancreas, liver and heart. Cardiac complications often accompany poisoning with these compounds and may be serious and often fatal. However, little is known about the myocardial infarction risk associated with exposure to pesticides. Herein, a rare case of acute myocardial infarction due ...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Edibe Karasu-Minareci, Nuran Gunay, Kenan Minareci, Gulay Sadan, Gul Ozbey Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Suicide with two shots to the head inflicted by a captive-bolt gun
Abstract: An exceptional case of suicide with two shots to the head inflicted by a captive-bolt gun is reported here. The pathophysiology observed, and related literature, indicate that the capacity of the victim to fire a second shot depended on the depth of skull penetration by the first shot and the extent of damage to nerve structures. In this case, an ante mortem multi-detector computed tomography was possible. From discussion with the radiologist and a 3D reconstruction, the two-shot suicide scenario could be confirmed.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Laurent Fanton, Bernd Karger Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

Incidence and outcome of prone positioning following police use of force in a prospective, consecutive cohort of subjects
Abstract: The safety of placing suspects in the prone position following police use of force has been debated extensively, particularly in the context of sudden in-custody death. The proportion of individuals who remain in the prone position following police use of force is not known, nor has the epidemiology of sudden in-custody death in any position after police restraint been documented. Using a consecutive cohort of individuals in whom police used force, we prospectively documented the number of individuals who were placed in a prone versus not-prone position, and the prevalence of sudden in-custody death in either pos...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Christine A. Hall, Anne M.D. McHale, Adam S. Kader, Lauren C. Stewart, Christopher S. MacCarthy, Gordon H. Fick Tags: Original Communications Source Type: research

Simultaneous analysis of some club drugs in whole blood using solid phase extraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Abstract: The use of psychoactive substances to improve social relations and increase body energy, in Rave Culture, has raised many legal and health public concerns, both for illicit trade and consumption. Therefore, forensic toxicology plays an important role in this area, mainly linked to the detection and quantitation of these substances, both in vivo and in post-mortem samples. In fact, at the moment, forensic sciences have been under public authorities’ scrutiny and critical look, due to the increasing attention of the media and public opinion, always applying for the use of scientific knowledge to help solving for...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: André L. Castro, Sónia Tarelho, Armando Silvestre, Helena M. Teixeira Tags: Original Communications Source Type: research

Talus measurements as a diagnostic tool for sexual dimorphism in Egyptian population
Abstract: Measurements of talus have been shown to be sexually dimorphic in South African blacks and whites and Prehistoric New Zealand Polynesians. Since several studies have demonstrated that discriminant function equations used to determine the sex of a skeleton are population specific, the purpose of the present study was to derive similar equation for the tali of Egyptians. The sample consisted of 110 tali (67 male & 43 female) whose age at death ranged between 20 and 60 years. The tali were obtained from Anatomy departments of Minia and Cairo Universities and also from Forensic Medicine department of Justice Office i...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Shereen Abd-elhakim Abd-elaleem, Mostafa Abd-elhameed, Ashraf Abd-elazeem Ewis Tags: Original Communications Source Type: research

Sex identification in Egyptian population using Multidetector Computed Tomography of the maxillary sinus
In conclusion, MDCT measurements of cephalo-caudal and size of the left maxillary sinuses are useful feature in gender determination in Egyptians.
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Mohammed F. Amin, Eman I. Hassan Tags: Original Communications Source Type: research

Autopsy following death by homicide in 644 cases
The objectives of this study are to determine the cause of death and based on the wounds, to analyze the different epidemiological variables on homicide in Dakar.Included were all homicides cases where an autopsy was performed and these results recorded in the autopsy register. The data collected in our work included, identity, sex, age, place of crime (location), the cause of death (the causative agent and the anatomical region injured) and the mechanism of death (the pathophysiological phenomenon causing death).On average 56 cases of homicide a year are reported, ranging from 44 cases in 2005 to 80 cases in 1999. Extrapo...
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Mohamed Maniboliot Soumah, Désiré Aluméti Munyali, Mor Ndiaye, Mamadou Lamine Sow Tags: Original Communications Source Type: research

Sexual assault consultations – From high risk to high reliability
Abstract:
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Nicola Cunningham Tags: Review Source Type: research

Aims & Scope/Editorial Board
Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine - January 28, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: research

Brains in context in the neurolaw debate: The examples of free will and "dangerous" brains.
Abstract Will neuroscience revolutionize forensic practice and our legal institutions? In the debate about the legal implications of brain research, free will and the neural bases of antisocial or criminal behavior are of central importance. By analyzing frequently quoted examples for the unconscious determinants of behavior and antisocial personality changes caused by brain lesions in a wider psychological and social context, the paper argues for a cautious middle position: Evidence for an impending normative "neuro-revolution" is scarce and neuroscience may instead gradually improve legal practice in the long run...
Source: International Journal of Law and Psychiatry - January 28, 2012 Category: Medical Law Authors: Schleim S Tags: Int J Law Psychiatry Source Type: research

Isomers of fluoroamphetamines detected in forensic cases in Denmark
Abstract A study was performed on the detection, separation and quantification of isomers from the new designer drugs named fluoroamphetamines (FAs) in forensic cases in eastern Denmark. The drugs were detected in whole blood extracts by ultraperformance liquid chromatography with time of flight mass spectrometer (UPLC-TOF-MS) and thereafter verified and quantified by UPLC tandem mass spectrometer (MS/MS). The quantitative method involved liquid–liquid extraction of FAs from whole blood, evaporation of organic solvent, and reconstitution with a mobile phase mixture. Identification of the FAs was achieved b...
Source: International Journal of Legal Medicine - January 27, 2012 Category: Medical Law Tags: International Journal of Legal Medicine Source Type: research

Quantitative monitoring of corticosteroids in cosmetic products manufactured in Korea using LC–MS/MS
Abstract: Some cosmetic products manufactured in Korea for the treatment of eczema, seborrhea and psoriasis have been suspected to contain anti-inflammatory corticosteroids such as prednisolone, hydrocortisone, betamethasone, dexamethasone and triamcinolone acetonide without these ingredients being indicated on the label. Due to their severe side effects such as permenent skin atopy, these corticosteroids have to be monitored in cosmetic products from a forensic point of view. Many cosmetic product samples (N=65) have been collected from both local and online markets in Korea. The corticosteroid content of these samples wa...
Source: Forensic Science International - January 27, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Yun Sik Nam, Il Keun Kwon, Yeonhee Lee, Kang-Bong Lee Tags: Rapid Communications Source Type: research

The use of moxibustion scars in the identification of individuals in forensic medicine
Abstract: The use of moxibustion today does not only take place in Eastern Asia, but recently also in Europe and the United States. Moxibustion scars are often seen in autopsy cases in Japan. However, no reports of the use of moxibustion in autopsy cases have been reported. This paper reports on an autopsy case in which moxibustion scars were used to extrapolate on the past symptoms of the deceased, date of therapy and the location of the moxibustion clinic which administered the moxibustion.
Source: Forensic Science International - January 27, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Masaaki Sakabe, Daisuke Miyamori, Stuart Mclean, Natsuko Shinmen, Hideaki Kato, Kanji Yoshimoto, Hiroshi Ikegaya Tags: Case Reports Source Type: research

A study of quantitative comparisons of photographs and video images based on landmark derived feature vectors
We present pilot results showing that the Cosine θ distance equation using Z-normalised values achieved the largest separation between True Positive and True Negative faces. Having applied the Cosine θ distance equation we were then able to determine that if a match value returned is greater than 0.7, it is likely that the best match will be a True Positive allowing a decrease of database images to be verified by a human. However, a much larger sample of images requires to be tested to verify these outcomes.
Source: Forensic Science International - January 27, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Krista F. Kleinberg, J. Paul Siebert Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Vaginal microbial flora analysis by next generation sequencing and microarrays; can microbes indicate vaginal origin in a forensic context?
In this study, we explored the use of microbial flora to indicate vaginal origin. First, we explored the vaginal microbiome for a large set of clinical vaginal samples (n = 240) by next generation sequencing (n = 338,184 sequence reads) and found 1,619 different sequences. Next, we selected 389 candidate probes targeting genera or species and designed a microarray, with which we analysed a diverse set of samples; 43 DNA extracts from vaginal samples and 25 DNA extracts from samples from other body sites, including sites in close proximity of or in contact with the vagina. Finally, we used the microarray results...
Source: International Journal of Legal Medicine - January 26, 2012 Category: Medical Law Tags: International Journal of Legal Medicine Source Type: research

Multiplex PCR-based Alu insertion polymorphisms genotyping for identifying individuals of Japanese ethnicity.
Abstract Discrimination of Alu insertions is a useful tool for geographic ancestry analysis, and is usually performed by Alu element amplification and agarose gel electrophoresis. Here, we have developed a new fluorescence-based method for multiple Alu genotyping in forensic identification. Allele frequencies were determined in 70 Japanese individuals, and we selected 30 polymorphic Alu insertions. Three primers were designed for each Alu locus to discriminate alleles using the 3-6bp differences in amplicon sizes. Furthermore, we classified the amplification primers for the 30 loci into three different sets, and PC...
Source: Genomics - January 26, 2012 Category: Genetics & Stem Cells Authors: Asari M, Omura T, Oka K, Maseda C, Tasaki Y, Shiono H, Matsubara K, Matsuda M, Shimizu K Tags: Genomics Source Type: research

A discussion on the usefulness of a shared European ballistic image database
Abstract: The introduction of electronic systems into the comparison of weapon marks in the mid 1990s caused a revolution in the discipline of “forensic ballistics”. Most European states now use this technology to search their national open case files.Globalisation of crime and the loss of effective border controls have made the idea of a unified European ballistic system seem logical.The article critically considers the requirements and possible outcomes of such a system. Based on the experience of forensic practitioners it seems probable that a shared European electronic ballistic system will be of a very limited val...
Source: Science and Justice - January 25, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: J. De Ceuster, R. Hermsen, M. Mastaglio, R. Nennstiel Tags: Scientific, technical and review papers Source Type: research

Indel markers: Genetic diversity of 38 polymorphisms in Brazilian populations and application in a paternity investigation with post mortem material
Abstract: Aiming to evaluate the usefulness of 38 non-coding bi-allelic autosomal indels in genetic identification and kinship testing, three Brazilian population samples were studied: two from Rio de Janeiro (including a sample of individuals with self-declared African ancestry) and one Native American population of Terena from Mato Grosso do Sul. Based on the observed allele frequencies, parameters of forensic relevance were calculated. The combined power of discrimination of the 38 indels was high in all studied groups (PD≥0.9999999999997), although slightly lower in Native Americans. Genetic distance analysis showed ...
Source: Forensic Science International: Genetics - January 25, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Fernanda Manta, Alexandre Caiafa, Rui Pereira, Dayse Silva, António Amorim, Elizeu F. Carvalho, Leonor Gusmão Tags: Short Communications Source Type: research

Maximum flight velocity of blood drops in analysing blood traces
This article provides an upper range of the velocity in relation to the diameter of the blood drops based on physical laws. This is very helpful in analysing ballistic trajectories.
Source: Forensic Science International - January 25, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Beat P. Kneubuehl Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Mitochondrial DNA control region variation in an autochthonous Basque population sample from the Basque Country
Abstract: Mitochondrial control region (16024–576) sequences were generated from 106 samples from autochthonous Basques from the Autonomous Community of the Basque Country. It is especially important to generate mtDNA databases from isolated populations in order to maximize the power of discrimination of this molecular marker. It also represents a useful approach to carry out a more accurate haplogroup classification. This is the first database report of complete control region sequences in an autochthonous Basque population sample. Strict selection criteria of autochthonous individuals, automation of laboratory processi...
Source: Forensic Science International: Genetics - January 25, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Sergio Cardoso, María Jesús Villanueva-Millán, Laura Valverde, Adrian Odriozola, Jose M. Aznar, Sergio Piñeiro-Hermida, Marian M. de Pancorbo Tags: Forensic Population Genetics - Short Communications Source Type: research

The Use of All Three Test of Memory Malingering Trials in Establishing the Level of Effort.
This study examined all three trials of the Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) in a large sample (n = 213) of inpatients on an epilepsy monitoring unit with the goal of establishing cut scores for early termination. TOMM Trial 1 demonstrated impressive diagnostic accuracy for determining both adequate and suboptimal levels of effort; various cut scores and classification statistics are presented. The optional Retention trial from the TOMM also increased the hit rate 16% in the detection of poor effort. Clinical implications, limitations, and directions for further research are discussed. PMID: 22277125 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Archives of Clinical Neuropsychology - January 25, 2012 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Wisdom NM, Brown WL, Chen DK, Collins RL Tags: Arch Clin Neuropsychol Source Type: research

Mary N. Sheppard: Practical cardiovascular pathology
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Book ReviewPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s12024-011-9311-0Authors Petr Hejna, Faculty of Medicine in Hradec Králové, Institute of Legal Medicine, Charles University in Prague, Šimkova 870, 500 38 Hradec Králové, Czech Republic Journal Forensic Science, Medicine, and PathologyOnline ISSN 1556-2891Print ISSN 1547-769X
Source: Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Tags: Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology Source Type: research

Arrest Types and Co-occurring Disorders in Persons with Schizophrenia or Related Psychoses
This study examined the patterns of criminal arrest and co-occurring psychiatric disorders among individuals with schizophrenia or related psychosis that were receiving public mental health services and had an arrest history. Within a 10-year period, 65% of subjects were arrested for crimes against public order, 50% for serious violent crimes, and 45% for property crimes. The presence of any co-occurring disorder increased the risk of arrest for all offense categories. For nearly all offense types, antisocial personality disorder and substance use disorders conferred the greatest increase in risk for arrest. Among anx...
Source: The Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research - January 24, 2012 Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Tags: The Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research Source Type: research

Identifying contributors of two-person DNA mixtures by familial database search
Abstract The role of familial database search as a crime-solving tool has been increasingly recognized by forensic scientists. As an enhancement to the existing familial search approach on single source cases, this article presents our current progress in exploring the potential use of familial search to mixture cases. A novel method was established to predict the outcome of the search, from which a simple strategy for determining an appropriate scale of investigation by the police force is developed. Illustrated by an example using Swedish data, our approach is shown to have the potential for assisting the ...
Source: International Journal of Legal Medicine - January 24, 2012 Category: Medical Law Tags: International Journal of Legal Medicine Source Type: research

Demonstration of liver metastases on postmortem whole body CT angiography following inadvertent systemic venous infusion of the contrast medium
Abstract An 86-year-old woman was hospitalized for breathlessness and a large right-sided pleural effusion. Approximately 1 h after thoracentesis, she developed a hemothorax resulting in hypotension and death. Routine postmortem CT scanning showed a large volume right hemothorax and a markedly enlarged liver. In an attempt to determine the origin of bleeding prior to autopsy, a postmortem CT angiogram was performed. Following inadvertent cannulation of the left long saphenous vein and infusion of ∼1,700 mL of a polyethylene glycol 200 and iodine-based radiographic contrast solution into systemic ...
Source: International Journal of Legal Medicine - January 24, 2012 Category: Medical Law Tags: International Journal of Legal Medicine Source Type: research

Importance of 3D-CT imaging in single-bullet cranioencephalic gunshot wounds
Conclusions CT imaging techniques are excellent tools for addressing the most important questions of forensic medicine in the case of gunshot wounds of the skull, with results as good as (or sometimes better than) traditional autoptic methods. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Neuroradiology / NeuroradiologiaPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11547-011-0784-4Authors T. Tartaglione, Dipartimento di Bioimmagini e Scienze Radiologiche, Istituto di Radiologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, 00168 Roma, ItalyL. Filograna, Dipartimento di Bioimmagini e Scienze Radiologiche, Istituto ...
Source: La Radiologia Medica - January 24, 2012 Category: Radiology Tags: La Radiologia Medica Source Type: research

The progression from disaster victim identification (DVI) to disaster victim management (DVM): a necessary evolution
Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s12024-011-9295-9Authors Calle Winskog, Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, Level 3 Medical School North Building, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, SA 5005, AustraliaMichael Tsokos, Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Charité University, Turmstr. 21 (Haus L), 10559 Berlin, GermanyRoger W. Byard, Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, Level 3 Medical School North Building, The University of Adelaide, Frome Road, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia Journal Forensic Science, Medicine, and PathologyOnline ISSN 1556-2891Print ISSN 1547-769X
Source: Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Tags: Forensic Science, Medicine, and Pathology Source Type: research

The use of linear dichroism in forensic fibre examinations — Part 6. Validation and practical aspects of MSP-PPL
Abstract: This paper summarizes the results of previous work on the microscopic observation of linear dichroism found in dyed fibres (polyesters, polyamides, wool, silk, cotton, viscose, acrylics and acetates) and in pigmented fibres as well as the measurements on these fibre classes using microspectrophotometry with plane polarized light (MSP-PPL). The validation of this method is discussed and a practical tool is proposed for comparing fibre traces with control fibres. The limitations and strengths of this method are also revised.
Source: Science and Justice - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: K. De Wael, L. Lepot, K. Lunstroot Tags: Scientific, technical and review papers Source Type: research

Human tissue preservation for disaster victim identification (DVI) in tropical climates
We examined eight tissue preservatives (salt, DMSO, ethanol, ethanol with EDTA, TENT buffer, RNAlater®, DNA Genotek Tissue Stabilising Kit and DNAgard®) and compared the quantity and quality of DNA recovered from human tissue and preservative solution stored at 35°C. Salt, DMSO, ethanol solutions, DNA Genotek and DNAgard® produced full Identifiler® genotypes up to one month from DNA extracts. In addition, DMSO, DNA Genotek and DNAgard® produced full profiles from aliquots of the liquid preservative.
Source: Forensic Science International: Genetics - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: A. Allen-Hall, D. McNevin Tags: Short Communications Source Type: research

Performance of two 17 locus forensic identification STR kits—Applied Biosystems's AmpFℓSTR® NGMSElect™ and Promega's PowerPlex® ESI17 kits
Abstract: We compared the performance of two recently released 17 loci STR multiplexes for human identification: Applied Biosystems's AmpFℓSTR® NGMSElect™ and Promega's PowerPlex® ESI17. The comparative parameters were chosen by their relevance in forensic identification and particularly in crime cases. The comparative analyses encompass: amplification ability, heterozygote balance, allelic drop-out, drop-in, stutter analysis and inter-locus balance.Four DNA profiles were analysed in various concentrations in a serial dilution experiment. The amounts of DNA in the PCR ranged from 3pg to 420pg and were analysed in tri...
Source: Forensic Science International: Genetics - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Torben Tvedebrink, Helle Smidt Mogensen, Maria Charlotte Stene, Niels Morling Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Anabolic androgenic steroids in police cases in Sweden 1999–2009
Abstract: Anabolic Androgenic Steroids (AAS) are considered drugs of abuse and are controlled substances in Sweden since 1999. Traditionally AAS have been used by elite athletes to enhance performance, but in recent years it has become an increasing problem outside elite sport among athletes, bodybuilders and criminals. Use of AAS is associated with psychiatric side effects such as aggression, depression and violent behavior. Supraphysiological doses and long term use can cause serious physical harm such as cardiovascular toxicity and even premature death. We investigated and evaluated the drug analytical findings in foren...
Source: Forensic Science International - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Yvonne Lood, Arne Eklund, Mats Garle, Johan Ahlner Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Informing the judgments of fingerprint analysts using quality metric and statistical assessment tools
Abstract: The aim of this research was to evaluate how fingerprint analysts would incorporate information from newly developed tools into their decision making processes. Specifically, we assessed effects using the following: (1) a quality tool to aid in the assessment of the clarity of the friction ridge details, (2) a statistical tool to provide likelihood ratios representing the strength of the corresponding features between compared fingerprints, and (3) consensus information from a group of trained fingerprint experts. The measured variables for the effect on examiner performance were the accuracy and reproducibility ...
Source: Forensic Science International - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Glenn Langenburg, Christophe Champod, Thibault Genessay Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Screening and quantification of antipsychotic drugs in human brain tissue by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry: Application to postmortem diagnostics of forensic interest
Abstract: A quantitative LC–MS/MS method has been developed for the simultaneous determination of 17 antipsychotic drugs in human postmortem brain tissue. Sample preparation was performed using Hybrid Solid Phase Extraction-Precipitation technology for the removal of endogenous protein and phospholipid interferences. The chromatographic separation was performed for 16min on a C8 column, which used a gradient elution of formate ammonium and acetonitrile, and a flow rate gradient. Triple quadrupole mass spectrometry was employed to generate tandem mass spectrometric (MS/MS) data of the target analytes to select the ion m/z...
Source: Forensic Science International - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: M. Carmen Sampedro, Nora Unceta, Alberto Gómez-Caballero, Luis F. Callado, Benito Morentin, M. Aranzazu Goicolea, J. Javier Meana, Ramón J. Barrio Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Dental age estimation from the developmental stage of the third molars in western Chinese population
This study provided reference data for the age estimation of western Chinese juveniles and adolescents by the mineralization stages of the third molar. Apart from forensic age determination in living subjects, the presented reference data can also be used for age estimations of unidentified corpses and skeletons.
Source: Forensic Science International - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Guo Li, Jiayin Ren, Shuping Zhao, Yuanyuan Liu, Na Li, Wanhong Wu, Shanshan Yuan, Hu Wang Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Experimental study of the expansion dynamic of 9mm Parabellum hollow point projectiles in ballistic gelatin
Abstract: We study in this paper the expanding behaviour of hollow point 9mm Parabellum projectiles (Hornady XTP® and Speer Gold Dot®). We defined a deformation rate that takes into account both the diameter increase and the length reduction. We plotted the behaviour of this parameter versus impact velocity (we refer to this curve as the expanding law). This expanding law has been plotted for different gelatin weight ratios and different gelatin block lengths. We completed our experiments with a set of high speed movies in order to correlate the deceleration to the state of expansion and size of the temporary cavity. Our...
Source: Forensic Science International - January 24, 2012 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: F. Bresson, J. Ducouret, J. Peyré, C. Maréchal, R. Delille, T. Colard, X. Demondion Tags: Research Articles Source Type: research

Increased incidence of CPR-related rib fractures in infants – Is it related to changes in CPR technique?
The article entitled “Increased incidence of CPR-related rib fractures in infants – Is it related to changes in CPR technique?” is a valuable addition to the clinical and forensic literature, assessing the causes of infant rib fractures. We would value further clarification of a number of points, however.
Source: Resuscitation - January 24, 2012 Category: Emergency Medicine Authors: Philip S. Martin, Michael D. Jones, Sabine A. Maguire, Peter S. Theobald, Alison M. Kemp Tags: Letters to Editor (online only) Source Type: research

The value of autopsies for determining the cause of death.
The value of autopsies for determining the cause of death. Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2012 Jan 24;132(2):147-151 Authors: Alfsen GC, Mæhlen J Abstract Background. Death certificates are the only source of information on the underlying cause of death in more than 90 % of cases. Supplementary information is available for only a small proportion of them, as a rule from a medical or forensic autopsy. We wished to investigate how frequently the findings of medical autopsies influence determination of the underlying cause of death. Material and method. Using the Norwegian Cause of Death Register as our basis, we d...
Source: Tidsskrift for den Norske Laegeforening - January 24, 2012 Category: Journals (General) Authors: Alfsen GC, Mæhlen J Tags: Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen Source Type: research

Kansas Bioscience Authority audit slams former CEO Thornton
An independent audit finds that former Kansas Bioscience Authority CEO Tom Thornton wiped files and other information from his agency-issued laptop after resigning. The KBA released the results of the forensic audit on Monday. Accounting firm BKD LLP, based in Springfield, Mo., conducted the audit. “Overall, the forensic audit affirms that the KBA’s investment process is diligent, and it makes no significant findings or exceptions related to KBA expenditures or conflicts of interest,” KBA Chairman Dan Watkins said in a release...
Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Pharmaceuticals headlines - January 23, 2012 Category: Pharmaceuticals Authors: David Twiddy Source Type: research