MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine' source. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:51:33 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342281&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X10000223%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342281 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:07 +0100 3342281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342280&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002157%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Editor, We read with interest a recently published research entitled “Autopsy Profiles of Malpractice Cases.” We are impressed with the study bringing out the details of the doctors and specialties implicated in malpractice cases in Turkey. However, we have some reservations. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342280 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:07 +0100 3342280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342279&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002133%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Sir Each individual possesses a unique set of minute raised ridges on volar pads called ‘friction ridge skin’. These clear and apparent unique outlines of the ridges are called fingerprints. Fingerprints are highly individualistic and forms the basis for personal identification in forensic examinations. Recent studies have reported that females have a significantly higher ridge density than males. This information facilitates the investigating officer to narrow down the investigating process in a particular case and direct the criminal investigation towards suspects belonging to the most likely sex. The higher ridge density in females has been attributed to the level of ridge thickness and it is opined that females tend to have finer epidermal ridge details. Consequently, the fem... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342279 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:06 +0100 3342279 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342278&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002121%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Firecracker display is used worldwide for celebrating religious festivities, New Year celebrations and various other occasions. Explosion during the manufacture of firecrackers can result in serious injuries. We, herein, report a case, where a person succumbed to injuries sustained in an explosion in a firecracker factory. Superficial to deep burns, traumatic amputation of right upper limb, and multiple abrasions and lacerations were present on various parts of the body with contusion of internal thoracic and abdominal organs. Also, multiple punctured circumscribed wounds with burnt floor and margins were present over the body. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342278 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342278 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342277&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001759%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In clinical medicine, plane radiography is used for detecting the remains of medications in the stomach in oral medication intoxication cases. Since postmortem computed tomography (CT), performed prior to autopsy, is currently intensively entering the forensic routine, the technique was applied to three fatal cases of oral medication intoxication. Here we report CT and autopsy findings for these cases.In all three cases, hyperdense areas within the stomach content were documented. The measurement of Hounsfield Units (HU) beyond 74HU showed mean values of 338, 88 and 98HU. Postmortem CT also showed brain edema and pulmonary aspiration in one case. At autopsy, tablet remains in the stomach were detected microscopically in all three cases. The ex vivo CT scans of the ingested medica... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342277 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342276&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001577%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A case is discussed of an adolescent presenting with a rectovaginal fistula secondary to a sexual assault 2 years earlier. The fistula resulted from a retained foreign body (bottle cap) inserted into the vagina during the assault. The adolescent did not disclose the presence of the foreign body at the initial examination. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342276 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342276 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342275&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002145%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examines the relationship between stature and hand and phalanges lengths among Egyptians. Stature, hand and phalanges lengths of 159 subjects, 82 males and 77 females (18–25years) were measured. Statistical analysis indicated that bilateral variation was insignificant for all measurements. Sex differences were significant for all measurements. Linear and multiple regression equations for stature estimation were calculated. Correlation coefficients were found to be positive, but little finger measurements of male and distal phalanges of female fingers were not correlated with stature. Regression equations were checked for accuracy by comparing the estimated stature and actual stature. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342275 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342274&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900198X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The results of this study confirm the high accuracy of using the measurement of the patella for sex determination. Until further data collected suggests otherwise, the results expected in present study are limited to forensic cases of the Iranian population. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342274 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342274 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342273&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001772%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Bruise age estimates by forensic experts, from photographs, are unreliable. However, it appears that the vast majority of observers are better able to place bruises from the same subjects in their chronological order. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342273 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342273 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342272&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001760%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This retrospective clinical audit reviews cases of adult sexual assault where the victim alleges that they were penetrated with a foreign object. These assaults were more likely to have positive genital and non-genital findings recorded by the clinician compared to assaults where no object was used. There is a suggestion that these assaults may be more violent with multiple assailants more common and an association with more use of threats and weapons. It is important to ask about the penetrative use of foreign objects in a sexual assault history and for clinicians to be aware of the greater possibility of injury in these cases. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342272 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342271&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001590%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Some consider the terms “forensic” and “legal” medicine to be synonymous but this is counter to the title of the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine or the dual strands for progression to fellowship of the Australian College of Legal Medicine. The paper examines a very brief historical background to legal medicine and develops a definition of the strands thereof, namely legal and forensic medicine. It demonstrates that the two are different components of the application of medical knowledge upon the legal system. Legal medicine has greater relevance to civil and tort law, impacting upon patient care, whereas forensic medicine relates to criminal law and damage to, or by, patients. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342271 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342271 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342270&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900016X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Modern Greek society appears to be split regarding the legalization of euthanasia. The Greek Orthodox Church maintains a negative attitude. Research shows that some forms of euthanasia are carried out “behind closed doors”. There is no specific legal provision. The government avoids bearing the political cost of regulating this marginal issue. According to the dominant view of Criminal Law jurists, some forms of euthanasia are considered permissible de lege lata, under certain conditions. The safety of the concurrence of these conditions, safeguarding of the acceptability of forms that are considered permissible and – mostly – the need to regulate the prohibited forms in exceptional cases, all force the legislators to promptly fill any legal vacuums. (Source: Journal of F... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342270 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342270 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342269&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002194%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The increasing role of DNA sampling of the saliva on and around the tooth marks on skin or other objects has perhaps led some to rely on this as too much of a gold standard to the detriment of more established and well-tried methods of odontological forensic detection.Forensic odontology should not become, as Geoffrey Pyke (1893–1948) the maverick inventor during the Second World War, once described such lost knowledge: “A lesson in collective forgetfulness”. This was said about the use of self sterilizing sphagnum moss as a field dressing due to a content of phenolic compounds. One amongst many of perhaps 350 species of the genus Sphagnum; Sphagnum angustifolium, was used as a highly absorbent wound dressing in both World Wars, the Spanish Civil War and before. (Source: Jo... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342269 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342268&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001966%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Air weapons whether rifles or pistols are, potentially, lethal weapons. The UK legislation is complex and yet little known to the public. Hunting with air weapons and the laws controlling those animals that are permitted to be shot with air weapons is even more labyrinthine due to the legal power limitations on the possession of air weapons. Still relatively freely available by mail order or on the Internet, an increasing number of deaths have been reported from the misuse of air weapons or accidental discharges. Ammunition for air weapons has become increasingly sophisticated, effective and therefore increasingly dangerous if misused, though freely available being a mere projectile without a concomitant cartridge containing a propellant and an initiator. (Source: Journal of Fore... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342268 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:05 +0100 3342268 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342267&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002169%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A 36-year old male was found dead inside a pub bath lying in a pool of blood.A small single-edged knife was discovered on the top of the water cistern. Multiple sharp weapon wounds at the usual sites of self-inflicted injuries were reported. It was possible to hypothesize a carotid artery injury as a bloodstain pattern compatible with high pressure blood exiting from a severed artery.At autopsy 39 stab and incised wounds were found: the left forearm showed 13 incised wounds, one of which deep enough to sever the radial artery, while 14 ones were found on the right forearm. Neck observation revealed three deep cut injuries but none reached the internal jugular vein or the carotid artery. On the chest there were nine stab wounds, one of which injured the heart apex leading to a 80m... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342267 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:04 +0100 3342267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342266&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001978%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A substantial part of the pedestrian accident problem arises from intoxicated pedestrians. Possible countermeasures are reviewed, organised into: (a) prevention of high levels of intoxication in pedestrians, (b) minimising pedestrian activity in the intoxicated, and (c) minimising risk of injury among intoxicated pedestrians. It is concluded that improved safety of intoxicated pedestrians is most likely to come about by making the environment safer for all pedestrians, drunk or sober. The measure that would be expected to have the greatest effect quickest is a reduced speed limit, especially in locations where traffic is busy and there are many pedestrians. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342266 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:04 +0100 3342266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342265&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X10000119%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342265 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 17:59:04 +0100 3342265 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159575&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900211X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159575 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159575 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159574&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900153X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Editor, The emergency department is often the first place where victims of accidents and violence and patients with medical emergencies seek help in our healthcare system: the spectrum ranges from life-threatening conditions to minor injuries, from the newborn to the elderly. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159574 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159574 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159573&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001528%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Sir, Aggrawal has written an excellent account of paraphilias and sexual crimes in the Bible. However, there are two more incidents he might have included. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159573 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159573 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159572&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001498%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigate the accuracy of odontometric methods in sex determination, using a sample from the Portuguese population. Measurements were made on dental casts using a digital caliper, and various odontometric indexes have been defined using upper incisor and canine teeth.Comparison of the means in both sexes was performed using Student’s t-test. Significant differences (p (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159572 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159572 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159571&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001565%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Attacks on humans by domestic animals causing fatal injuries are not uncommon in rural areas of India. But injuries due to buffalo gore are rarely observed in villages and are different from other casualties like stab injuries, road fatalities, etc. As the victims of buffalo attack are usually recovered from the fields or forest, the investigating officer could be mislead as to the nature of infliction of fatal injuries to a possible homicide. The injuries caused by the horns of buffaloes are of various shapes, sizes and directions. They are violent and goring in nature. The wound sustained may be contusions, lacerations, criss-cross wounds, penetration of body cavities, and sometimes fractures. In the absence of any eye witness, it becomes very difficult to believe the unsuspect... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159571 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159570&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001553%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article describes the case of a 58-year-old man who asked for an assessment of physical damage of a civil nature, having been diagnosed with chronic hepatitis C for which he blamed a blood transfusion, supposedly contaminated with hepatitis C virus (HCV). After studying the documentary information, a number of presuppositions were drawn up with a view to determining the causal nexus, but this could not be proved. The assessment of situations like this is not common in civil law. This article is intended to add to the body of information on the forensic assessment of similar cases. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159570 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159569&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001267%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A 7-year old girl suspected of having been sexually abused owing to the presence of anal condyloma was found to be infected by Chlamydia trachomatis. Microbiological analysis and anamnesis were consistent with the infection having been acquired at birth. This case confirms that untreated infection acquired at birth can persist for months or years and highlights the value of examining those involved in the suspicion of sexual abuse of the child. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159569 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:42 +0100 3159569 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159568&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001292%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: One-hundred and nine unrelated and healthy males from Santa Catarina, Brazil were included in this study. Allele frequencies and gene diversities for the loci DYS456, DYS458 and DYS448 were calculated. A comparison between our population and others was performed. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159568 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159567&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001589%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In recent years, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) has been discussed as a cause of petechial hemorrhage in eyelids and conjunctivae, which could be of substantial significance to forensic expertises in cases of suspected strangulation. In the reported series or case observations, the combination of CPR and petechiae seemed to be sufficient to explain such a causal connection. Nearly all presented cases were victims for which the mechanisms resulting in death were themselves well-known causes explaining the development of such petechiae; and said mechanisms can frequently be observed in victims that did not receive CPR. An earlier, also retrospective, analysis of a series of forensic autopsies did not confirm CPR as a significant cause of conjunctival petechiae. Now we present ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159567 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159567 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159566&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001504%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Determination of individuality is one of the prime concerns in forensic investigation. The study of fingerprints is widely used in providing a clue regarding identity. The present study was undertaken to study the sex differences in fingerprint ridge density in the Indian population. The study done on 100 males and 100 females revealed that significant sex differences occur in the fingerprint ridge density. The present study shows a statistically significant difference in fingerprint ridge densities of male and female fingerprints in people of Indian origin. A mean fingerprint ridge density of 12 ridges/25mm2 or less is found to be more likely to be of males and a mean ridge count of more the 12 ridges/25mm2 is more likely to be of female origin. (Source: Journal of Forensic and ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159566 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159566 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159565&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001231%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These results can be used as standard organ weights to determine abnormal evidences in Forensic and Pathologic corpses. However such results have to be regularly updated by pathologists in order to keep organ weight as a good criterion used in postmortem diagnosis. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159565 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159565 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159564&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001541%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present an Error Odds analysis of seven previously published case studies in Forensic Biomechanics as an illustration of the utility of the OE as a metric for admissibility of testimony in the courts, with a minimum Error Odds ratio of 10 proposed as a threshold. The results of our analysis yielded only 1 of 7 cases of applied Forensic Biomechanics that surpassed the threshold for admissible testimony of 10, with most the cases falling below an OE of 3. The results of the present study suggest that the forensic application of biomechanics is potentially fraught with error. We suggest that an Error Odds analysis be incorporated in Forensic Biomechanics as part of the analysis as a form of quality control and as demonstrable evidence of the accuracy of the methodology. (Source: Journal of... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159564 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159564 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159563&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001516%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study provides a retrospective review from the forensic files of the University Centre of Legal Medicine in Western Switzerland in Geneva, from January 1956 to December 2005. The studied homicide–suicide cases cover a period of half a century (50years). As a rule, all police-ordered forensic examinations of violent death cases in the Canton of Geneva are conducted by the University Centre of Legal Medicine. All of the data necessary for an exhaustive retrospective study are thus readily available. During the period covered in this work, 228 homicides were perpetrated in Geneva. In 23 cases, the homicide was followed by the suicide of the aggressor. The 34 victims of these homicides (18 women, 1 man and 15 children) had either an intimate or filial relationship with the perpetrator. ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159563 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:41 +0100 3159563 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159562&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001255%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of hypersensitivity myocarditis secondary to administration of carbamazepine. Acute hypersensitivity myocarditis was not suspected clinically, and the diagnosis was made post-mortem. Histology revealed diffuse infiltration of the myocardium by eosinophils and lymphocytes with myocyte damage. Clinically, death was due to cardiogenic shock. To best of our knowledge this is the second case of fatal carbamazepine induced myocarditis reported in English literature. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159562 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:37 +0100 3159562 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159561&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09002017%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159561 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 16:43:37 +0100 3159561 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089003&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001851%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089003 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3089003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089002&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001942%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089002 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3089002 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089001&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001280%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Sir, The study of Chowdhury-Hawkins and colleagues, published in the August 2008 issue of the Journal has a number of methodological flaws which we believe invalidate their conclusion that most Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) attendees have a preference for female staff. Of particular note was their finding of an overwhelming preference for a female physician among female victims. In contrast to UK guidelines referred to by Chowdhury-Hawkins et al. in Australia a more liberal attitude is taken to male doctors working in SARCs. In fact, 13% of the membership of Forensic and Medical Sexual Assault Clinicians Australia, the national peak professional body in this field, comprises male forensic physicians. Our collective experience is that female victims may voice concerns regarding a m... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089001 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3089001 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3089000&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001206%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes I have read Drs Kanchan and Menezes’ letter rejecting my proposed sequential mechanism of injury in my original case report. I have reviewed my contemporaneous case notes and I do not agree either with their hypothesis or conclusions in this case; indeed finding their before-and-after reversed arrow marks on my original photograph facile, unconvincing and superfluous. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3089000 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3089000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088999&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001243%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report an autopsy case of a man who died 2days after taking an overdose of vegetamin. The autopsy findings were as follows: the epidermis on the axillary fossa and the inguinal skin had become macerated. Skeletal muscle was discolored. Concentrations of urea nitrogen, creatinine and urine myoglobin were 1.95g/day, 0.66g/day and 1100ng/mL, respectively. Immunohistochemically, myoglobin was strongly stained at the Bowman’s capsule, and tubular lumen and epithelium. 8-OH-dG was strongly stained in renal tubular epithelium in which cell nuclei were strongly stained. ORP-150 was observed in intraglomerular cells and renal tubular epithelium. The concentrations of phenobarbital, promethazine and chlorpromazine ranged from therapeutic to toxic levels, from toxic to lethal levels and toxic le... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088999 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3088999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088998&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900122X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a series of cases in which the scars themselves bear testimony to the applicant’s case, bolstering the importance of photography in these cases. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088998 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3088998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088997&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900119X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The aim of this audit was to determine a baseline for timing, numbers and case mix of detainees referred to hospital for medical assessment in order to review the effectiveness of existing custody procedures for the management of medical emergencies.Data was examined for the 3-month period January to March 2006. A total of 12015 detainees were processed during this period, 188 patients identified as requiring hospital assessment, a hospital transfer rate of 1.57% for the period, 80 cases (0.65%) were for potentially life threatening conditions. The health care team assessed 37.7% of all detainees and were recorded as involved in 151 of the 188 cases transferred (80%).The categories of patients sent to hospital included head injury (26/188 or 13.8%), overdose and poisoning (20/188... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088997 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3088997 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088996&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001188%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Until recent years the Republic of Ireland had one of the most restrictive regimes on firearms access with the Irish police (An Garda Siochana) consistently refusing to grant certificates for a wide range of guns including handguns, high calibre rifles and shotguns capable of holding more than three cartridges. In 2004 the High Court ruled that this policy was without legislative backing and since then the police began to issue certificates for firearms where the applicant is not disentitled under law from possessing a gun. Set against this backdrop, this paper explores the consequences of liberal gun regimes in the context of access to firearms by those suffering from mental illness and who pose a threat of parasuicide or suicide. Consideration is given to experiences in other j... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088996 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3088996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088995&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001164%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The goal of this work was to determine the craniofacial injury patterns in hospitalized patients to facilitate the awareness, by identifying, describing and quantifying trauma for use in planning and evaluation of preventive programs. Two-hundred and fifty five patients with craniofacial injuries were registered at the department of neurosurgery in Tanta University Hospital. Data were collected including age, gender, medical history, cause of injury and type of injury, location and frequency of soft tissue injuries, skull fractures, facial bone fractures, brain injuries and concomitant injuries, patient symptoms, clinical signs and the radiological findings. The most common causes of craniofacial injuries were road traffic accidents, followed by activity of daily life and assault... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088995 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:03 +0100 3088995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088994&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001152%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Forensic diatomology plays an important role in solving mysteries of drowning cases. The diatomology contributes significantly not only in determining the mode of death but also in determining the site of drowning. Presence of sufficient number of diatoms in vital distant body organs can establish ante-mortem drowning up to a certain extent. Question about the exact site of drowning is mostly raised particularly when circumstantial evidences are not clear about the drowning site or drowning site itself is not there. Distribution of diatoms in any water body, and their correlation with the diatom species recovered from the drowned body can be a method of choice to resolve the questions related to drowning site. Analysis was undertaken in order to record the significant variation i... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088994 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:02 +0100 3088994 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088993&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X07001631%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Little is known about the general healthcare needs of detainees in police custody. The aims of this study were to: determine the level of general health issues, diseases and/or pathology for detainees in police custody, and to determine how well those general health issues, diseases and/or pathology are being managed. This was done by a detailed analysis of healthcare issues of a cohort of detainees and reviewing intended and prescribed medication needs with current medication availability. In August 2007, a prospective detailed, anonymised, structured questionnaire survey was undertaken of 201 detainees in police custody in London, UK. Of these 83.6% consented to participate in the study. 85.1% of subjects were male; mean age was 33.9 years; 70.8% had English as a first language... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088993 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:02 +0100 3088993 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088992&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001613%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Intentional injuries inflicted upon children by adults rightly cause great concern and have been studied extensively. In contrast, little is known about the pattern, nature and extent of injuries sustained by children inflicted by other children. A funded prospective study of injured children was undertaken over 18 months. Children’s injuries were studied in an epidemiologically complete population comprising the western two-thirds of Cornwall. Information was collected from ten hospitals in standardised fashion using the widely accepted Children’s Hospital Injury Reporting and Prevention Programme (CHIRPP). 597 injuries (67% involving boys) were identified as having been inflicted apparently deliberately by other children. 62% of injuries affected children aged under 12 year... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088992 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:02 +0100 3088992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088991&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001030%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Deaths have occurred after law-enforcement incidents involving applications of electronic control devices (ECDs) (including TASER® devices). An “excited delirium” syndrome (reported in the literature prior to the development of ECDs currently in use), however, includes several factors that may be related to such deaths in custody. In this review, potential detrimental effects of ECDs are compared with possible changes due to excited delirium. Although extreme (i.e., long-duration or repeated) exposures to ECDs can result in significant hyperkalaemia, acidaemia, and myoglobinemia in animal models, limited applications (such as those normally used in law-enforcement situations) would appear to have only transient effects. In addition, the hyperthermia observed in patients with... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088991 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:02 +0100 3088991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3088990&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001802%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3088990 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:17:02 +0100 3088990 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831859&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001309%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831859 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:17 +0100 2831859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831858&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000687%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This volume is an updated version of the original volume (at that time Volume 2 in this series) published 6years previously. Chapters relating to drugs and toxicology account for 80% of the book (>800 pages) and the information contained within this part of the book is very detailed. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831858 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:17 +0100 2831858 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831857&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000663%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Steven B. Karch says he never intended to ridicule forensic toxicology or forensic toxicologists, which is a bit hard to swallow considering the rubric of his article “Is post-mortem toxicology quackery.” He fails to mention the incorrect calculations dealing with distribution volume of methamphetamine and his attempt to estimate the dose administered from the measured blood-concentration of this stimulant. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831857 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831857 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831856&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900105X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes I am not persuaded that JCFM is the proper venue for the sort of discussion Jones invites, but I do think he raises some important scientific issues and those I am happy to address. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831856 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831855&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000638%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The rather provocative title of Steven B. Karch’s postcard from America (Is postmortem toxicology quackery?) should have raised a few eyebrows among practicing forensic toxicologists. Surprisingly, his postcard and opinions have, to my knowledge, not been answered. This prompted a postcard from Sweden to highlight some errors and omissions in the material submitted by Dr. Karch. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831855 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831855 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831854&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002539%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In the July issue of 2008 JFLM Alcimedes correctly reported that exposure to ethanol-based hand cleansers does not produce measurable levels of plasma ethanol. Be that as it may, some ethanol is absorbed, even if it is below limits of detection, and some of that ethanol is converted to a minor metabolite known as ethyl glucuronide. On this side of the pond, at least, the presence of ethyl glucuronide is considered a marker for ethanol consumption, and it is. But just as pubs are not the only source of lager, drinking is not the only source of ethanol ethyl glucuronide (EtG). (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831854 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831854 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831853&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001218%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We recently encountered a 25-year-old white man who died of substance abuse including methadone. The route of administration of the drug(s) appears to have been insufflation. He was found dead at home. There were bottles of prescribed medications and an empty bottle of non-prescribed methadone. There was a grinding device nearby. At autopsy, no needle tracts were identified. Microscopically, the bronchi had desquamated ciliated respiratory epithelium admixed with red-brown pigment, which was found under plane-polarized light to be comprised of birefringent finely-granular material consistent with pulverized pills. Blood toxicology was positive for tetrahydrocannabinol, sertraline, nicotine, and methadone. The cause of death was ruled drug interactions with cerebral and pulmonary ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831853 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831852&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001139%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present here an unusual and rare case of self-inflicted cut throat injury of a 45-year old ex-military man without tentative cuts over the neck, which has resulted from a curved sharp weapon. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831852 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831852 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831851&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001127%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A 45year old female with no stroke risk factors suffered a massive intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) after ingesting Midrin – a combination of isometheptene mucate, dichlorophenazine and acetaminophen. Neuroimaging revealed no evidence of structural disease or underlying vasculopathy. This is the first reported case of isometheptene induced ICH in the absence of underlying cerebrovascular disease. Physicians must be aware of the potential for this complication, and inquire about the use of isometheptene in unexplained cerebral hemorrhages. Neurological communities in countries with nonprescription isometheptene should discourage unsupervised or excessive use of the drug. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831851 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831851 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831850&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001115%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A family of six members were murdered at their own residence. Four of the family members had been killed with large heavy sharp weapons which produced multiple deep cut injuries predominantly on the neck and face. In these victims, death occurred as a result of haemorrhage. Two family members were killed by ligature strangulation and hanging. The victim, who was hanged, was sexually abused before she was killed. An unusual finding was the presence of an alleged assailant to the murders with multiple blunt weapon trauma to his body, at the scene of crime. The homicides of the family were as a result of personal disputes between the perpetrators who were their neighbours. Three of the alleged assailants were charged for murder and rape. The fourth assailant was charged for rape. No... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831850 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831850 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831849&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001103%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Sudden vaginal bleeding and a cardiac arrest occurred in a 18-year-old female during consensual intercourse. Resuscitation procedures, applied at the arrival of a medical emergency team, restored the cardiac function allowing admission to hospital, where two vaginal mucosal lacerations were diagnosed and sutured. Cardiological investigations diagnosed a left ventricle myocardial infarction and a patent foramen ovale while a brain CT scan showed ischemic signs and intravascular air images. Death occurred after 48h, due to heart failure, cerebral anoxia and multiorgan failure. Autopsy confirmed a patent foramen ovale considered as responsible for a paradoxical air embolism. Judicial Authority evaluated the fatal paradoxical air embolism as a consequence of an unpredictable accident... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831849 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831849 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831848&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001097%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Lemierre syndrome refers to necrotizing infections of the head due to Fusobacterium necrophorum and has been called the ‘forgotten disease’ due to its rarity in the antibiotic era. Recently, however, more cases have been documented in the literature suggesting that there has been an increase in incidence. A 10-year-old boy is reported who had a five-day history of ear infection, with the development of fever, drowsiness and ipsilateral neck swelling. Unexpected cardiac arrest occurred soon after medical assessment. At autopsy, right otitis media was demonstrated with extension of suppurative infection into subcutaneous tissues behind the ear and also into the extradural space at the lateral end of the petrous temporal bone. There was also septic thrombophlebitis of the adjace... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831848 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:16 +0100 2831848 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831847&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001085%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Adipocere has a long history of frightening and fascinating mankind, from so called “incorruptible saints” to the famous “iceman” and its formation on human remains has long been known and feared. Adipocere formation replaces the putrefactive changes, when the body lies buried in shallow, moist, clay, soiled grave or it is thrown into cess pools or submerged in water. As the progression of putrefaction is arrested, the facial features and wounds are preserved without much alteration, thereby aiding the identification and to certain extent, the cause of death. The time required for the formation of adipocere is a subject of controversy. Here we present a case of early adipocere formation within 3days and the review of literature pertaining to it. (Source: Journal of Forens... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831847 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831847 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831846&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000869%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, myocardial infarction is a rare complication of parathion poisoning. Awareness of this complication of parathion poisoning, proper monitoring and treatment could prevent fatalities. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831846 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831846 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831845&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000882%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: MiniSTR loci has demonstrated to be an effective approach to recover genetic information from degraded sample, due to the improved PCR efficiency of their reduced PCR product sizes. Allele frequencies and forensic parameters for the six miniSTR loci D10S1248, D2S441, D1S1677, D9S1122, D10S1435 and D17S1301 were investigated in 154 Northwestern Chinese Han populations. All loci showed a moderate degree of polymorphism with observed heterozygosity >0.6 and did not show departures from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium for Northwestern Chinese Han populations. The accumulated powers of discrimination for the six loci were 0.999998. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831845 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831845 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831844&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001140%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aims to examine trends of injuries due to landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) and to determine problems during and after the treatment of children and adolescent victims in Turkey. Data from the records of 23 children injured from landmines and UXO were analyzed from April 2001 to October 2008. Cases consist of 21 (91.3%) males and two (8.7%) females with a mean age of 12.8years. Cause of injury was landmine explosion in 20 (87.0%) and UXO in three (13.0%) cases. Injuries in upper and lower extremities were determined in eight (34.8%) children. Hand amputation was the result in 10 (43.5%) children where in two cases a leg, in one case an eye, in one case a hand and arm, in two cases a hand and leg, in one case an eye and a leg and in three cases a hand and eye were lost. One... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831844 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831844 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831843&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001073%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Identification of an individual plays a vital part of any medicolegal investigation. Fingerprint is considered to be the most accurate and reliable indicator in identification.The present study was conducted on 500 South Indian subjects to determine the individuality and the predominant fingerprint pattern among South Indian population. Two-hundred and fifty males and 250 females of South Indian origin were included for this study and rolled prints were taken from all the 10 digits and the same were stored on a proforma.The most frequent fingerprint pattern was ulnar loop in the total population, as well as in the sex wise distribution. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831843 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831842&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000894%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aims to identify possible differences between these types of abuse.A retrospective study was performed based on medico-legal reports related to children suspected of being sexually abused (n=1054).The results revealed that 40.2% of the suspected abuses were intra-familial and were significantly different than extra-familial cases with respect to the following: (a) the complainants were younger; (b) their relationship to the alleged abuser was closer; (c) the alleged abusers had higher rates of previous sexual abuse; (d) the suspected abuses were less intrusive physically; (e) there was less physical but more psychological violence; (f) the delay between the last abuse and the medico-legal examination was greater; and (g) there were fewer physical signs and DNA evidence (none in ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831842 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831842 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831841&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000870%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In this retrospective autopsy study fire-related deaths whose autopsies were carried out in the Council of Forensic Medicine in Istanbul, Turkey were analyzed in order to evaluate the relationship between the mode of the death and the laboratory and autopsy findings. There were 320 fire-related fatalities constituting the 2.07% of all autopsy cases of that period. Of the 320 cases 228 (71.3%) were males and 91 (28.4%) were females, average age in age-determined group was 36.6 (SD: 21.98) ranging from 8months to 98years.Carbon monoxide intoxication played role in death of 104 cases (32.5%) either directly or together with other factors such as burning and lack of oxygen. In 32 cases (10.0%) burning was the only cause of death and in 90 cases (28.1%) burning and related complicatio... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831841 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831840&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000857%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: However, these data demonstrate that ‘‘drugged driving” does occur and that further, comprehensive investigation is needed to determine the frequency and type of drug use by Ontario drivers. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831840 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831839&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000845%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Estimation of stature is one of the important initial steps during forensic analysis of human skeletal remains. The aim of the present study was to derive a linear regression formula for estimating stature of adult South Indian males from the length of the sternum. The study included 35 male sternums of South Indian origin dissected from cadavers during medico-legal autopsies. The linear regression equation [Stature=117.784+(3.429×Sternal length)] was derived to estimate the stature from the length of the sternum. The correlation coefficient was 0.638. The standard error of the estimate was 5.64cm. This preliminary study concludes that the length of the sternum can be used as a tool for stature estimation in adult South Indian males. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medici... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831839 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:15 +0100 2831839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831838&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001176%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Elevated levels of sodium that may be detected in the analysis of post-mortem fluid samples may arise from a wide variety of organic illnesses and environmental factors that have caused either water depletion or solute gain. When hypernatraemia is suspected at autopsy a careful history is required with particular emphasis on pre-existing medical conditions such as renal or gastrointestinal disease. In addition, detailed information is required on the circumstances of death, including any clinical symptoms and signs that the deceased may have manifested, or medical procedures such as dialysis, colonoscopy or intravenous fluid replacement. Reduced intake of fluid may be associated with cognitive or physical impairment or may result from environmental depletion (the latter may be a ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831838 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:14 +0100 2831838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2831837&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001620%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2831837 Fri, 25 Sep 2009 18:05:12 +0100 2831837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765670&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001310%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765670 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765670 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765669&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001061%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765669 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765668&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000675%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes At the outset we are sorry to say that the authors in the article “Cadaveric fungi: Not yet an established forensic tool – Authors response” have not taken our views in a right and challenging scientific spirit, instead has raised damaging remarks on the authors. The same caution should have been taken care by Menezes et al. in his article, when the authors have loosely commented on the work and questioned on the validity of the study done by Histosugi et al. The authors have prematurely commented that “the use of cadaveric fungi as a forensic tool in estimating time since death at autopsy as reported in the case by Hitosugi et al. may not be applicable without any appropriate reasoning”, which is very dishonorable statement to the forensic scientists, though the authors have sci... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765668 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765668 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765667&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000559%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest the article entitled ‘condom-murder’ by Murty in the Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine. The article deals with six cases that are dubbed as ‘condom-murder’. In the ‘discussion’ section, Murty has listed the evidence which could potentially be derived from a condom discovered at a crime site. However, Murty has not provided any information regarding the same in the six cases reported by him. Moreover, the circumstances of death as understood by us from the glumly presented case reports appear not to be the same, and therefore, it is unacceptable to club all of them under the inappropriate blanket of ‘condom-murder’. In case 1, the presence of an unused condom in the pocket of the deceased discovered at autopsy is a mere co-incidental finding and is... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765667 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765666&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900050X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The authors provided in their paper interesting experimental data on the breaking energy of full or empty beer bottles. Full bottles broke at 30J impact energy, empty bottles at 40J. The conclusion of the authors is that the breaking energies surpass the minimum fracture-threshold of the human neurocranium and therefore beer bottles are capable of breaking human calvaria. In relation to these interesting experimental findings experiences from forensic casework and experimental biomechanical investigations published some years ago shall be recalled. Skull fractures resulting from blows to the head with glass bottles can be considered as rare events. Although in the literature cases of fatal depressed fractures in the skull caused by blows with glass bottles are described they are in the own... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765666 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765665&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000651%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The David Jenkins Memorial Lecture given at the Annual General Meeting of the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine on 6 June 2008 at Maidstone, Kent. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765665 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765665 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765664&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000614%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Gastrointestinal causes of sudden and unexpected death occur at all ages but are more common at the extremes of life. In the elderly quite significant disease may be present without observable symptoms and signs. Two cases of unexpected deaths due to small intestinal obstruction from unusual occult hernias are reported. Case 1: an 84-year-old woman was found dead lying in bed at her home address. Death was caused by intestinal herniation through a defect created by the greater omentum that had adhered to an area of acute serosal inflammation associated with underlying acute diverticulitis of the jejunum. Case 2: an 83-year-old woman was found dead lying on the kitchen floor at her home address. Death was caused by herniation of a portion of small intestine into a direct inguinal ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765664 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:03 +0100 2765664 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765663&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000602%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present the autopsy reports of three people who died after colliding with boat propellers. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765663 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765663 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765662&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000596%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cavernous haemangiomas belong to a group of vascular malformations that are developmental defects of the vascular bed. Occurrence of an asymptomatic cavernoma in the pons is uncommon and worthy of record. At autopsy, cavernomas have to be differentiated from traumatic haemorrhagic lesions in head injury cases. We hereby report a case in which a pontine cavernous haemangioma was detected at autopsy in a 25-year-old female who died due to burn injuries. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765662 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765662 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765661&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000584%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This report provides an overview of potential mechanisms accounting for vertebrobasilar system rupture, with application to our case. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765661 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765660&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000547%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Carotid sheath haematoma is a rare finding, sometimes the only injury found in cases of manual strangulation without any associated external or internal injury to the neck. One such rare case is reported in an 8 year old female victim where presence of carotid sheath haematoma not only helped to ascertain the cause of death but also helped in the reconstruction of mechanism of infliction of force on the neck. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765660 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765660 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765659&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000535%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the medico-legal assessment of cases of aggression with firearms, imaging techniques have a particularly important role, especially in the study of a bullet’s path through the victim’s body. The analysis of these trajectories can be performed by the use of three-dimensional reconstitution techniques, namely Three-Dimensional Multi-Slice Computed Tomography (3D-MSCT). This imaging technique has been widely used in fatal cases, as a very important complement of the classical autopsy procedures, becoming known as “virtual autopsy” or “Virtopsy”. To our knowledge, no reports describing the use of 3D-MSCT in non-fatal cases have been described in the medico-legal literature. The authors present a case of a man with a gunshot injury, in the context of a multiple aggresso... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765659 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765659 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765658&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000328%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This report delineates a case of anal injury in a 12-year-old boy who gave a detailed history of bestial behavior with a male bulldog. The child described how he had seen this behavior modeled on the internet and subsequently initiated contact with his own dog, causing the dog to penetrate him anally. This type of juvenile bestial behavior with injury has only been reported once previously in the medical literature. Zoophilia, along with a number of other paraphilias, frequently has its onset in the adolescent age group. Adolescents evidencing paraphilic behaviors require thorough psychological evaluation. Spontaneous sexual assault of a human by a canine has never been described in the human or veterinary medical literature, nor is such a thing likely. A clinician involved in evaluating s... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765658 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765658 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765657&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000146%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case with an atypical entrance wound as a result of a destabilized full metal jacket bullet penetration. The destabilized bullet by an impact with the dorsal hand experiences a yawing to tumbling motion in flight. The large angle of yaw induces a larger presenting profile upon impact that contributes, associated to a rapid deceleration, to a greater mechanical force on the projectile structure and a fragmentation into core and jacket. Forensic pathologists have to be aware that the metal jacket bullet could tend to break up outside or inside the body particularly after a shooting through a target. This phenomenon induces atypical entrance wounds and atypical X-ray presentation. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765657 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765657 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765656&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000511%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests are considered a valuable screening method for the forensic examination of semen in vaginal and rectal swabs of alleged victims of sexual abuse. Although these membrane tests have been also applied to autopsy specimens no study has assessed their reliability when performed on post-mortem (PM) rectal swabs from decomposed cadavers. The present study describes the results obtained with the Seratec® PSA Semiquant Kit test on 39 male and 10 female adult cadavers with no history of sexual assault and with a PM interval up to 136days. Overall 64% of the 39 male cadavers tested positive for the PSA, the positive PSA reaction being more frequent in the 20 males with advanced decomposition than in the 19 males with no putrefaction signs (70% vs. 58%)... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765656 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765655&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900064X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This research project was performed to assist the Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine (FFLM) with the development of a training programme for Principal Forensic Physicians (PFPs) (Since this research was performed the Metropolitan Police Service have dispensed with the services of the Principal Forensic Physicians so currently (as of January 2009) there is no supervision of newly appointed FMEs or the development training of doctors working in London nor any audit or appraisal reviews.) to fulfil their role as educational supervisors.PFPs working in London were surveyed by questionnaire to identify the extent of their knowledge with regard to their role in the development training of all forensic physicians (FPs) in their group, the induction of assistant FPs and their percept... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765655 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765654&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000523%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This retrospective study evaluated 41 cases of child deaths child deaths of both sexes from family violence and autopsied at Mansoura Morgue of Forensic Medicine Institute from 1996 to 2005. According to their ages, children were divided into four groups as follow: (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765654 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765654 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765653&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000183%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Acute carbon monoxide intoxication is too dangerous because of its speed in addition to the particularities of carbon monoxide which is one of many ubiquitous contaminants of our environment that requires prevention and control measures inside and outside to insure adequate protection of public health. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765653 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765653 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765652&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000158%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions have to be made with caution. Alcohol in potential lethal blood concentrations seems to increase ECG-voltages in occasional drinkers but not in alcoholics. This indicates that alcohol interferes with the ion channels that create the action potentials of the heart, but in alcoholics an adaptation process has occurred. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765652 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765652 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765651&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000560%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Aims and methods: The aim of this survey was to explore staff attitudes to the indoor smoking ban in a medium secure unit and to ascertain if they had experienced any difficulties in imposing the ban in the four months after its introduction. All staff members available on duty who agreed to participate in the survey were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire.Results: The response rate was 65%. Sixty-four percent of the staff supported the smoking ban. Forty-three percent reported experiencing patient management problems with the majority complaining of increased patient aggression, increased use of staff time in supervising patients smoking. Additionally, supervising staff were still being exposed to passive smoking. Sixty-five percent reported positive effects due t... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765651 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765650&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000493%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aims at identifying any local trend in the appeal process and to determine if we are complying with the MHA 1983 and the Code of Practice by reviewing all the appeals to Mental Health Review Tribunals in a psychiatric hospital in South Wales for the period from 2004 to 2008.Results: The total numbers of sections and appeals remain steady over the years. Men are slightly more detained than women mainly under Sections of the MH Act 1983. The main diagnoses for detention were: bipolar affective disorder, schizophrenia and psychosis. 95% of cases had appeals and 5% referrals. A hearing was held in 52% of cases (n=60), the RMO discharged 38% of patients and the patient withdrew appeal in 10% of cases. 95% of cases were British White ethnicity. Single men tended to appeal more than wo... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765650 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:02 +0100 2765650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765649&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000572%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: On occasion the forensic evaluation of individuals who have died suddenly and unexpectedly may reveal intracranial vascular abnormalities such as capillary, venous- and arteriovenous malformations. Such vascular abnormalities may form part of a heterogeneous group of disorders called neurocutaneous syndromes and involve the skin, nervous system and other organ systems. These unusual conditions include Sturge–Weber, Osler–Weber–Rendu, Klippel–Trenaunay, Von Hippel-Lindau, Proteus and Wyburn-Mason syndromes in addition to ataxia telangiectasia. Causes and mechanisms of unexpected death include epileptic seizures, intracranial haemorrhage and thromboses. Differentiating these conditions at autopsy is important because of variable inheritance patterns and occasionally inaccur... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765649 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:01 +0100 2765649 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2765648&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09001346%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2765648 Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:06:01 +0100 2765648 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560501&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000900%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560501 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560500&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000699%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560500 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560500 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560499&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000110%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We are pleased to discover the attention our research has generated in a recently published response [J Forensic Legal Med 2009;16:45]. However, the authors’ belief that their response to our article is a representation of the medical fraternity is truly surprising. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560499 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560498&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000109%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We reported that economic reasons were one of the main factors in the increase in suicides, that unemployment seemed to be particularly relevant for the increase in males in recent years in Mie Prefecture. Ono reported that area intervention research on the high suicide rates had been ongoing for over five years since 1985 and clear effect was seen. The representative cases were Matsunoyama town, Niigata Prefecture and Nagawamachi, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. These cases highlight the importance of preventive plans in districts where the suicide rate is high, especially in prefectures where the rate is high despite suicide prevention measures by the entire prefecture. Therefore, if researchers investigate the current state of the suicide separately for some areas in the prefecture and approp... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560498 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560497&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000092%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Editor, Determining postmortem interval (PMI) is a challenging task in forensic practice. We are pleased to find that our correspondence has aroused interest from readers not only from forensic fraternity but in addition from different clinical disciplines. The curiosity of the learned authors would have been encouraging for the future of forensic mycology provided they had kept a pace with the recent advances in forensic entomology. This probably is the reason why an established science of forensic entomology has been underestimated and questioned by Rao et al. We suggest to them to once again do a thorough literature search and review. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560497 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560496&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000067%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The causes of injuries to male external genitalia include assault, sexual coitus, sports activities, road traffic accidents, grinding machines, gunshots, stabs, penile metallic rings, etc. Usual mechanism of such injures is either a direct blow to the external genitalia or the crushing force that brings about avulsion injuries. Shetty et al. reported a case of degloving of the entire shaft of the penis with partial amputation, associated with absence of scrotal skin and both testes. Degloving penile injury and complete penile and scrotal avulsion caused by dog bites, and a degloving scrotal injury due to elephant stampede are also reported. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560496 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560495&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000171%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Tuberous sclerosis is a neurocutaneous disorder with autosomal dominant inheritance. It is characterized by the triad of seizures, mental retardation, angiofibromas of the face though the triad is not always complete. We incidentally encountered a case of tuberous sclerosis in a case of hanging. He was an epileptic. Autopsy findings included unusual findings of myocardial and renal lipomata. He also had cortical thickening of bones, cortical tubers of brain, polycystic kidney disease. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560495 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560494&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000134%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report two suicide cases shooting themselves at temporal region with a blank cartridge gun at contact range. There was no foreign body on radiological examination and there was no trajectory of a bullet inside the brain. In both cases the wound was at the right temporal region and there was defect at temporal bone. There was circular soot around this bone defect. The injury of the brain tissue was localized at the level of the defect but there was widespread subarachnoidal bleeding.We discussed the potential danger of these guns and stressed the need of legal regulations concerning these guns. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560494 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560493&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000122%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Accidental transorbital head injuries are quite rare. Penetrating head injuries by blunt objects are possible when the site of penetration is through the orbit or the thin temporal bone. The present case is a rare case of transorbital penetrating head injury by a blunt object – bicycle brake handle. Minor external wounds may be misleading and fatal consequences may ensue if cerebral damage is missed on diagnosis. Proper antibiotic coverage to prevent meningitis and neurosurgical intervention can reduce mortality in such cases. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560493 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560492&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000055%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a rare case of accidental strangulation with chunni where the patient was pillion rider on bicycle; in spite of very common of use of bicycle to best our knowledge this kind of injury has not been reported previously. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560492 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560491&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002552%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of an elderly demented woman who died of a mitral rheumatic valvular disease in the context of multiple injuries and from elder abuse. History from police investigation indicated that the deceased was found collapsed on the floor in her bedroom for several days prior to death by her son who did not initiate medical care. Autopsy revealed a frail elderly woman with Alzheimer’s disease and evidence of multiple healing sublethal blunt impact injuries of the face, mouth, neck, upper chest, and extremities. In addition, there was unwashed dirt encrusted skin, urine/fecal staining of skin and clothing, dirty overgrown toenails, and matting of the hair. This constellation of findings supports the medical diagnosis of elder abuse with neglect. However, the immediate cause of dea... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560491 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560490&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002527%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Despite the increasing popularity of crossbows in recreational hunting, injuries and deaths from crossbows are still relatively rare. In suicides, the body areas favoured are similar to those of gun users, namely the thorax and head. These deaths almost always occur in males. The case presented is that of a 49 year old male with a history of mental illness and suicidal attempts, who committed suicide with a crossbow. The weapon was discharged into the left thorax. Examination of crossbow injuries can be difficult due to their similarities with other incised wound patterns. As many victims may survive for some time after injury, removal of the bolt is possible. As well, removal of the bolt followed by advanced decomposition may alter the wound patterns. Careful examination of clot... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560490 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:50 +0100 2560490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560489&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000043%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Accidental deaths in infancy and early childhood often result from young childrens’ lack of understanding of the dangers of certain situations and their physical inability to extricate themselves from potentially lethal circumstances. Two cases are reported to demonstrate an age-related susceptibility in the young to lethal head entrapment. Case 1: a 5-month-old girl smothered when she slipped down in her stroller, trapping her head beneath the frame and forcing her face into the soft material of the base. Case 2: a 14-month-old boy was hanged while exploring a filing cabinet when his head became caught between two lower drawers. Additional mental and physical characteristics that predispose young children and infants to lethal head entrapment include an inability to effectivel... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560489 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:49 +0100 2560489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560488&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0800259X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Suicide by hanging is not an uncommon event in people over the age of 65 years in the Australian Capital Territory. We will review the incidence of suicide over the last seven years, as well as discuss the characteristics of suicide in elderly people. Knowledge of local suicide patterns enables the forensic medical officer to recognise deaths that may be unexpected or unusual. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560488 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:48 +0100 2560488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560487&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000080%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Various characteristics of the medico-legal scene in Dubai are described, along with an overview of all cases examined over a period of 6 years. During the period of study, a total of 17,683 cases were examined in the Department of Forensic Medicine of Dubai Police General Headquarters. This constituted a yearly average of (2947.16). The average annual increment was 11.13%, the percentage of increase between 2002 and 2007 being 68.96%. Of these 10,165 (57.48%) were clinical cases of injuries, 5404 (30.56%) postmortem examinations, 1525 (8.62%) clinical cases of sexual crimes, 409 (2.3%) age estimations, 58 (0.32%) medical responsibility, 20 (0.11%) criminal abortion, 61 (0.34%) civil actions and 38 (0.21%) miscellaneous cases. Of postmortem examinations, 4846 (89.7%) of them were... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560487 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:48 +0100 2560487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560486&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000079%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This retrospective study analyzes post-mortem examination data of 164 firearm-related casualties recorded by the Brescia, Italy Institute of Forensic Medicine between the years 1994 and 2006. The following variables were considered: year, month and day of death, gender and age of the victim, manner of death (homicide, suicide, accidental), type of weapon used, anatomical site and number of wounds, scene of death, and, whenever requested by the local District Attorney’s Office, results of the toxicological examinations conducted on the corpses of the deceased.In the County of Brescia, Italy, the 2006 firearm-related mortality rate amounted to 0.84 per 100,000 residents, with an average of 12.6 cases per year. The most common manner of death was suicide (60.4%), followed by homic... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560486 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:48 +0100 2560486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560485&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002606%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is important for forensic pathologists to determine the diagnosis of drowning as well as the site of drowning. In a previous study, we propose that analysis of electrolytes in pleural effusion from rats may be useful for determining whether drowning has occurred in seawater or freshwater. To test this proposal, we measured the concentration of sodium, potassium and chloride ions and total protein in pleural effusion from 40 autopsy cases: 24 involving seawater drowning, 9 freshwater drowning and 7 no drowning. The concentrations of sodium and chloride ions in pleural effusion showed a significant difference between seawater drowning and freshwater drowning. The concentration of potassium ions and total protein showed no difference between each group, although they increased in... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560485 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:48 +0100 2560485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560484&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002564%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Necrophilia is a paraphilia whereby the perpetrator gets sexual pleasure in having sex with the dead. Most jurisdictions and nations have laws against this practice. Necrophilia exists in many variations, and some authors have attempted to classify necrophilia. However many related terms such as pseudonecrophilia continue being used differently by different authors, necessitating the introduction of a new classification system. The classification system suggested by the author attempts to put all different shades of necrophilia under 10 classes. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560484 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:48 +0100 2560484 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560483&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002540%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Fatalities resulted from aluminium phosphide (ALP) intoxication in completely healthy children with no preceded clinical sings or symptoms were presented. Data regarding circumstances, autopsy reports, histopathological examination, toxicological investigation, and police enquiries were also collected and evaluated. The affected children were females, and 6–16 years old. They were completely healthy and died suddenly in relation to some physical activities such as running, walking, and bathing, without any prior complain. The viscera showed intense congestion with moderate to severe pulmonary edema. The cause of the sudden termination of life in the reported cases is mostly cardiac ones. Physical exertion may precipitate death due to increased cardiac stress, increased oxygen d... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560483 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:47 +0100 2560483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560482&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002515%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Unintentional (accidental) injuries in childhood constitute a significant public health problem. Young children are extremely vulnerable to unintentional injuries that are vastly preventable. All cases of fatal unintentional injuries in children aged 10 years and below autopsied during 1994–2007 were retrospectively reviewed. Seventy five such cases were identified during the 14 year study period. Males accounted for 68% of cases with a male–female ratio of 2.1:1. Mean age of male and female victims was 5.3 and 4.9 years, respectively. Road traffic fatalities accounted for majority of the cases in this age group (52%), followed by those due to thermal injuries (22.7%). Flame was the cause of thermal injuries in 52.9% cases and scalds were observed in 47.1% cases. Traffic fata... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560482 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:47 +0100 2560482 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560481&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002503%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Grievance or legal action is unusual in the daily practice of doctors, but in today’s medico-legal domain they face a continuous possible threat. The threat of, or real, legal process can cause psychological, corporeal and behavioral practice changes. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560481 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:47 +0100 2560481 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2560480&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000936%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2560480 Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:35:47 +0100 2560480 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506953&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000481%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506953 Thu, 25 Jun 2009 08:59:36 +0100 2506953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446469&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000481%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446469 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:34 +0100 2446469 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446468&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002588%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with interest the paper by Lynch et al. regarding sudden death in a 17 year-old male due to aortic rupture of an undiagnosed coarctation. We recently saw a similar outcome in a 15-year-old African–American male with no history of recreational-drug use, trauma or known connective tissue disease, and with one-year history of insulin-dependent diabetes, who developed abdominal pain and bilateral lower extremity weakness. Initial vital signs were stable with diminishing femoral pulses and lower extremity anesthesia. The abdomen was diffusely tender with reduced bowel sounds. Hypertension developed (200/120mmHg) and was controlled with an esmolol bolus. Aortic dissection and aortic insufficiency were seen on transesophageal echosonogram. He rapidly became hypotensive and bradycardic, ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446468 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:32 +0100 2446468 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446467&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002576%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Dear Editor, With respect to an interesting photofile published in the Journal of Clinical Forensic Medicine, Bruce-Chwatt offers the mechanism of double human bite. The explanation provided about the mechanism of the injury however, appears quite unlikely as it is practically impossible to have a bigger mouthful exactly parallel to the initial one with the victim struggling to escape. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446467 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:28 +0100 2446467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446466&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002497%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Domestic maid violence is an assault and coercive behaviour, which mainly includes physical, psychological and at times sexual too, by employer or household members of employer against a person hired as a domestic help. Maid abuse is well known but poorly documented in scientific literature. This is an important global issue. In this article, two illustrated cases of maid abuse are discussed. Their employers allegedly subjected both the victims to physical and psychological trauma. The physical examination of the victims showed poor state of clothing, nutrition, and presence of injuries of different duration. The bruises were irregular to patterned, and were inflicted by beating. Both cases had eczematous contact dermatitis over palms and soles, paronechia, and sub-ungal fungal i... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446466 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:27 +0100 2446466 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446465&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002485%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This report presents a fatal case of a middle age female victim who died of self-administered propofol intoxication. The propofol level of the blood sample was measured with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry after liquid–liquid extraction. The results of toxicological investigation suggested that death was not directly caused by propofol intoxication, however, based on the pathomorphological changes detected during the medico-legal autopsy we supposed that the fatal outcome was resulted by respiratory depression after rapid injection. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446465 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:23 +0100 2446465 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446464&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002461%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Discussion: Deep vein thrombosis is likely an under recognized occurrence in physically restrained patients under psychiatric care. We propose that deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism be recognized as a risk factor for prolonged physical restraint. As a result, prospective studies examining the incidence and prevention of this adverse outcome is indicated. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446464 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:22 +0100 2446464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446463&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002321%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a fatal case of a female for whom the forensic autopsy revealed injuries to the external respiratory orifices indicating smothering. Subsequent postmortem toxicological analysis confirmed heavy amitriptyline acute intoxication. The victim had serious psychological problems, was under long-term treatment with antidepressants and was a systematic alcohol abuser. Forensic autopsy determined damage to the external airways, along with multiple formal petechial hemorrhages (Tardieu) in various parts of the body. The presence of amitriptyline, nortriptyline and 10-hydroxynortriptyline was confirmed by GC–MS and quantified by HPLC in blood (7.0μg/ml amitriptyline and 7.4μg/ml nortriptyline). The cause of death was disputed between severe intoxication (poisoning or suicide attempt) an... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446463 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:20 +0100 2446463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446462&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002412%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study 4918 suicidal cases (3099 male, 1819 female) in Budapest were investigated in connection with climatic data, as daily maximum, minimum temperature, and air humidity. The most frequent methods of suicide were intoxication, hanging and jumping. A mild seasonal variation was found, however, the rate of suicidal death was influenced by warm temperatures. Higher frequency of suicidal deaths was detected in warm weather with low relative humidity, which implies dominantly dry anticyclonic meteorological conditions. Our results suggest that the medico-legal investigation may help specific suicide prevention programme regarding to the climate change and meteorological conditions as potential risk factors of suicidal cases. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446462 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:16 +0100 2446462 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446461&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002473%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Post-mortem radiology and autopsy findings in a series of six diving-related deaths are presented. The cases had different causes of death but essentially similar radiological findings. We propose that the so-called classical radiological features of cerebral arterial gas embolism more likely represent “off-gassing” (gas coming out of solution into intra-vascular spaces due to pressure changes). As such, we suggest that post-mortem radiology, when accompanying a competent autopsy examination, be limited to the chest, whereby it may be useful in the demonstration of pneumothoraces which might not be demonstrated at autopsy, thereby providing supporting evidence for barotrauma in the context of appropriate clinical and autopsy findings. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Me... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446461 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:14 +0100 2446461 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446460&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0800245X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: To improve care and services to victims of interpersonal violence, a medico-legal consultation unit was set up at the Lausanne University Hospital, Switzerland in 2006. Adult victims of violence are referred to the consultation by the emergency department. Patients are received by forensic nurses for support, forensic examination and community orientation. A descriptive study of medical reports filled for the 2006 population was conducted in 2007 with the aim to explore characteristics of this specific population and to better orient prevention.Among the 422 patients in 2006, 57% were men and 43% women, with a median age of 31 years old. Violent episodes took place in a public place for 90% of male victims and at home for 70% of female victims. The perpetrators were mostly unknow... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446460 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:09 +0100 2446460 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446459&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002448%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, we emphasize the importance of rodenticides control as well as necessity of performing a psychological autopsy. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446459 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:08 +0100 2446459 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446458&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002424%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A study was undertaken to research the occurrence of homicide–suicide events in the Pretoria region from January 1997 until October 2001. It is important to attempt understanding this tragic phenomenon from psychiatric and forensic perspectives. This uncommon phenomenon has attracted widespread and sensational media coverage, but little is known about the causal factors and demographic profile of perpetrators and victims, and possible sites of intervention. Case files of the Pretoria Medico-Legal Laboratory (where all cases of unnatural death in Pretoria are investigated) were reviewed and information collected from relevant investigating officers of the South African Police Services.The average annual incidence of homicide–suicide in Pretoria over the period studied was foun... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446458 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:05 +0100 2446458 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446457&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002400%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Non-lethal injuries to the cervical spine facet joints have previously been described in decedents from motor vehicle crashes and in clinical settings these joints have been identified as potential culprits in chronic neck pain syndromes. The aim of this study was to conduct a detailed examination of the lower cervical spine facet joints in a forensic cohort of motor vehicle crash victims and controls using comparable data from medicolegal autopsy, stereomicroscopy and histological evaluations. Injuries to the cervical spine facet joints were common in the trauma cases and included facet fractures, haemarthrosis, and disruption and bleeding in the synovial folds. The injuries could not be reliably verified on stereomicroscopic evaluation, and routine autopsy procedures did not rev... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446457 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:56:01 +0100 2446457 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446456&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002370%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the present study, deaths by ligature strangulation in the province of Konya (Turkey) were evaluated from the medicolegal point of view between 2001 and 2006. In total 2850 medicolegal death cases, 161 (5.65%) were resulted from asphyxia and 20 (12.4%) of the deaths due to asphyxia were cases of ligature strangulation. Male:female ratio of the victims was 1:1 with ages ranging from 1.5 to 70 years and a mean age of 37.22±19.28 years. 17 cases (85%) were of homicidal and 3 cases (15%) of suicidal origin. The most widely used ligature material was clothesline in 6 cases (30%). On the examination of neck structures, thyroid cartilage fracture was present in 7 (35%) cases, fracture of the hyoid bone in 3 cases (15%), fracture both of the thyroid cartilage and hyoid bone in 1 case... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446456 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:55:57 +0100 2446456 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446455&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002382%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Self-poisoning with organophosphorus (OP) compounds is a major cause of morbidity and mortality across South Asian countries. To develop uniform and effective management guidelines, the severity of acute OP poisoning should be assessed through scientific methods and a clinical database should be maintained. A prospective descriptive survey was carried out to assess the utility of severity scales in predicting the outcome of 71 organophosphate (OP) and carbamate poisoning patients admitted during a one year period at the Kasturba Hospital, Manipal, India. The Glasgow coma scale (GCS) scores, acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, predicted mortality rate (PMR) and Poisoning severity score (PSS) were estimated within 24h of admission. Significant corr... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446455 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:55:53 +0100 2446455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446454&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002436%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: During the 20th century, risks to women associated with childbirth in developed countries have been dramatically reduced on account of many factors that include technological advancements in obstetrical care, greater access to health services and fewer births occurring at the extremes of women’s reproductive age span. However, pregnancy-related maternal deaths continue to be a major health concern in developing countries. In the year 2005, an estimated 536,000 women died of maternal causes worldwide of which 86% occurred in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia and less than 1% in more developed countries. The large regional differences in maternal deaths demonstrate that most of these deaths are preventable. It is nevertheless important to monitor patterns of pregnancy-related mor... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446454 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:55:50 +0100 2446454 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2446453&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000729%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2446453 Sun, 31 May 2009 06:55:49 +0100 2446453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298769&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002187%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298769 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:41:15 +0100 2298769 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298768&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000031%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298768 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:41:15 +0100 2298768 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298767&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001996%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes A glance at one of the leading on-line retailers of medical textbooks in the UK shows there are about 15 books currently available with the words “clinical negligence” in their title. The quoted prices range from £12 to £90, apart from “Clinical Negligence” edited by Powers, Harris and Barton, which weighs in at nearly £400. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298767 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:41:14 +0100 2298767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298766&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002345%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A teenager college student was fatally injured by burst tyre air pressure while waiting on a public bus stand to catch a bus to reach her college at Kuala Lumpur. She accidentally came near the wheel while boarding when tube and tyre got burst .The air pressure had blown the girl in the air and she subsequently fell on a rough surface. The iron-locking rim of the wheel acted as a missile and hit the girl. She died on her way to the hospital. A medico-legal autopsy was performed which showed extensive injuries in the cranial and chest cavity. Head had large scalp laceration with diffuse separation and gaping from in the vault region; skull bones were fractured. Chest cavity had extensive rib fractures, lacerated lungs and haemo-thorax while externally there was no obvious injury. ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298766 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:41:07 +0100 2298766 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298765&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001777%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A case is presented where confusion arose about skin lesions and whether they were diabetic or electrical in origin. The deceased was a known diabetic and hypertensive man.A middle-aged person in early fifties was found unconscious in the cell and judicial autopsy was performed. He was facing trial for capital punishment of being allegedly involved in drug trafficking and money laundering. He had few marks over his fingers and foot which were considered to be electric marks produced in electric torture. also had fracture of skull and ischemic necrosis of right side of cerebrum; and contrecoup lesions. Findings are documented with photographs of the lesions. The article also depicts photographs of the scene where the victim had fallen and sustained skull fracture. (Source: Journal... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298765 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:41:03 +0100 2298765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298764&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001832%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Reported methods which have been used to measure tympanic temperatures on cadavers up to now are quite invasive. They involve the use of a probe which can perforate the tympanic membrane and frequently causes bleeding from the ear. For this reason a non traumatic method for estimating tympanic temperature should be applied. Infrared tympanic thermometry seems to be a plausible option. Reliability of infrared tympanic thermometry (ITT) has been largely assessed on living individuals but only one author up to now has assessed its applicability for post-mortem interval determination. Thus the authors set out to test the difference between ear temperatures taken with a probe vs. ITT, differences between left and right ear and reproducibility of measurements of ITT. The aim of the stu... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298764 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:57 +0100 2298764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298763&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002369%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A prospective observational study of fatal road traffic collisions in south-east Scotland between 1993 and 2003 revealed 17 cases (2.8% of all road fatalities) which appeared to be the result of suicide. In all 17 cases the judgement that the death was the result of suicide reflected the combination of a consistent mechanism of injury with supporting background information. The 17 individuals comprised 13 car drivers and four pedestrians. Ten of the individuals had a past history of mental illness. Only three (18%) survived to reach hospital alive. Analysis of the injuries revealed nine individuals to have unsurvivable injuries (defined by Abbreviated Injury Scale of six, Injury Severity Score of 75). The number of road traffic suicides may be generally underestimated. They appea... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298763 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:53 +0100 2298763 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298762&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002333%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, these populations could be pooled together in order to create one “Colombian-Mestizo” database for forensic use. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298762 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:47 +0100 2298762 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298761&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0800200X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Trauma accounts for a high percentage of unexpected deaths in toddlers and young children, mostly due to vehicle accidents, drowning and fires. Given recent efforts to publicise the dangers of toddler run-overs a study was undertaken to determine how significant this problem remains in South Australia. Review of coronial files over 7 years from 2000 to 2006 revealed 50 cases of sudden and unexpected death in children aged between 1 and 3 years of which 12 of 28 accidents involved motor vehicles (6 run-overs and 6 passengers). The 6 children who were killed by vehicle run-overs were aged from 12 months to 22 months (ave=16.8 months) with a male to female ratio of 1:1. Four deaths occurred with reversing vehicles in home driveways and one at a community centre. The remaining death ... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298761 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:42 +0100 2298761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298760&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001820%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) are clinical manifestations of the same entity, venous thromboembolic disease (VTD). In approximately 25% of patients, the first manifestation of PE is sudden–unexpected death.We carried out a prospective study at the forensic pathology service of the Institute of Legal Medicine in Seville with the aim to know the incidence of PE as well as to describe the epidemiological, pathological and clinical characteristics of these deaths and associated risk factors.In the study period (32 months) 32 cases of PE were registered from a total of 2447 completed autopsies. Three cases were considered accidental deaths and the remaining 29 cases were sudden natural deaths, which represents 1.3% of the total autopsies, 2.6% of natural d... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298760 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:28 +0100 2298760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298759&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001819%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The study shows that there was a complete lack of consistency in the recording and availability of information regarding forensic medical services for police services in England and Wales. The information that was obtained suggested that usage of such services varied greatly between police services and that costs of forensic medical services appear to be increased by the use of mixed healthcare professional service delivery and by using external commercial providers. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298759 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:40:01 +0100 2298759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298758&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001790%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The purpose of our study was to provide descriptive data on victim and assault characteristics in sexual violence and to ascertain risk factors in the sequence of the assault events. Retrospective data were collected on all sexual assault victims presented to the sexual referral centre, the police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Aarhus, Denmark, during a five-year period. Four hundred and twenty-three victims were included. The annual incidence rate was 14.5 per 100,000 inhabitants aged 12–87 years and the “dark figure” was estimated to be 1.34. Median age was 21 years; 69% of the victims knew the assailant, and penile intercourse was reported in 59% of the cases. Young age and drinking alcohol were risk factors for the assault to take place in a public place. Inf... Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298758 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:39:42 +0100 2298758 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298757&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001844%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This report shows the evolution of a template developed by one forensic physician practising in London, UK (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298757 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:39:27 +0100 2298757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298756&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08002357%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: TASER® ECDs (electronic control device) are small, battery powered, handheld devices. They deliver short duration, low energy pulses to stimulate motor neurons, causing transient paralysis. While the experience is painful, proper use of the device is rarely associated with significant side effects in spite of 1070 human worldwide exposures daily. In fact, there have been more than 780,000 training exposures and 630,000 field uses (total of over 1.4 million human uses) without any credible evidence of a resulting cardiac arrhythmia. In this article we describe the mechanisms by which the device operates, and review possible morbidities. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298756 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:39:18 +0100 2298756 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2298755&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X09000407%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2298755 Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:39:16 +0100 2298755 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218716&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X0900002X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218716 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 09:45:58 +0100 2218716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218714&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001807%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Traumatic aneurysms or dissections of the vertebral artery have been reported in patients who have suffered minor craniofacial injuries in traffic accidents.A case is reported of ruptured traumatic vertebral artery aneurysm due to closed head injury without without penetrating injuries or skull fractures.The macroscopic and histological findings relevant to the vertebral wall were compatible with post-traumatic aneurysm; the rupture of the wall was assumed to be caused by sepsis and local infiltration of inflammatory cells. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218714 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 09:45:30 +0100 2218714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2218712&cid=s_37937_142_f&fid=37937&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.jflmjournal.org%2Farticle%2FPIIS1752928X08001765%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A case is presented of a fatal environmental accidental injuries of lightning. A pedestrian was struck by lightning. The macroscopic and microscopic lightning injuries are reviewed. (Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine) Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2218712 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 09:45:07 +0100 2218712