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 'Legal Medicine' source. Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:51:34 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294248&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622310000131%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294248 Mon, 22 Feb 2010 17:02:18 +0100 3294248 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294253&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622310000027%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In order to investigate the interaction in the heart between the administration of methamphetamine (MAP) and restraint of the body following it, we administrated MAP intraperitoneally to mice and restrained them, and then determined the level of mRNA expression of 22 genes in the heart using quantitative RT-PCR method. The mRNA expressions of Nfkbiz, Nr4a1 and Dusp1 changed significantly after the administration of MAP, suggesting the induction of an inflammatory condition such as damage to the myocardium. Moreover, the serum concentrations of inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-6 were significantly increased by the administration of MAP. On the other hand, the mRNA expressions of Rgs2 and Rasd1 were changed by both the administrat... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294253 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294250&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003642%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The present study investigated the morphology of astrocytes in the hippocampus and serum S100B levels in cases of mechanical asphyxia due to neck compression (n=23: atypical hanging, n=7; ligature/manual strangulation, n=16) with regard to the classical autopsy findings, compared with those of other types of asphyxiation (n=9) and acute myocardial infarction/ischemia (AMI, n=20). The decrease in intact astrocyte number, as shown by S100 and GFAP-immunostaining, was larger for asphyxiation due to neck compression compared with that for other asphyxiation and AMI, showing a correlation with the increase in the serum S100B levels. The decrease in intact astrocyte number and increase in serum S100B were closely related to the severity of conjunctival petechial hemorrhage and fracture... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294250 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294258&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003617%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This report also discusses the relationships between suicide and unemployment rates and increased rates of mining and industrial production and increased rates of money supply during the same period.During the period studied, annual suicide rates ranged from 7.1 to 18.3 per 100,000 populations. Multiple regression analysis indicated that the suicide rate was clearly related to the unemployment rate, but the suicide rate was not related to increased rates of mining and industrial production and increased rates of money supply. Thus, when unemployment rates increase, relevant organizations and the community should pay close attention to the increase in suicide rates. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294258 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294258 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294257&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622310000052%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of TBSAH possibly originating from hemorrhagic cerebellar contusions due to fist blows to the neck. A 35-year-old woman, who was punched on the right side of the neck, became unconscious about 20min later and died. Autopsy demonstrated a massive subarachnoid hemorrhage at the base of the brain, with blood clots attached to the right lower surface of the cerebellum. No tear was detected in the vertebro-basilar vessels, but there were hemorrhagic cerebellar contusions beneath the blood clots as a possible source of TBSAH. The site of impact to the neck suggested the cerebellar contusions to be a coup injury due to hard blows. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294257 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294262&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003678%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We read with great interest the original article by Maeda et al. in the April 2009 special issue of the Journal. According to literature previously published, the authors believe that laboratory tests are an almost indispensable tool for medico-legal examinations of corpses. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294262 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294262 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294261&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003629%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We have co-amplified and analyzed 17 Y-chromosomal STRs loci (DYS19, DYS389I/II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS438, DYS439, DYS437, DYS448, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, YGATA-H4 and DYS385a/b) in 132 healthy unrelated autochthonous male individuals of Chinese Tibetan ethnic group residing in Lassa area of China. The gene diversity values for the Y-STRs loci ranged from a minimum 0.206 for DYS391 locus to a maximum of 0.912 for DYS385a/b locus in the populations. A total of 123 haplotypes were identified, among which 115 were unique and 8 occurred more than once. The overall haplotype diversity for 17 Y-STRs loci was 0.998. Research results will be valuable for forensic use in the regions and for Chinese population genetic study. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294261 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294252&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003666%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: It is difficult to examine the intact in situ status of thoracic organs, including the heart and lungs, after opening the chest at autopsy. The present study investigated the pathological diagnostic significance of the cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) with regard to heart and lung weight in postmortem plain chest radiography. The pathological diagnostic significance of the CTR in postmortem plain chest radiography using serial forensic autopsy cases of adults (>19years of age, n=367, within 72h postmortem) was retrospectively investigated. In natural deaths, CTR was larger for heart diseases, and was smaller for pulmonary infection and gastrointestinal bleeding, showing correlations to the heart weight except in cases of hemopericardium. In traumatic deaths, CTR was larger in cases of ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294252 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294252 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294259&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003873%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDX) enables rapid, non-destructive, multi-elemental analysis. Using EDX, lead and some other metallic elements were detected in paraffin-blocks in which skin samples from a gunshot wound were embedded. Lead was not identified in control samples from non-injured cases. These findings indicate that EDX is a useful method for rapid non-destructive analysis of paraffin-embedded blocks. This technique can provide scientific evidence for identification of a firearm even after storing the sample for a long time. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294259 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294259 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294256&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900368X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present two cases where a single locus mismatch was found in the locus D19S433 using the AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler™ PCR Amplification Kit (Applied Biosystems) (Identifiler Kit) during paternity and maternity tests. This mismatch differed from the mismatch pattern where there is usually a one repeat difference. We designed forward and reverse primers so that they were positioned further away from the primer set contained in the Identifiler Kit. The results showed the existence of a silent allele 13 in both families, due to a point mutation that changed guanine to adenine at 32 nucleotides downstream from the 3′ end of the AAGG repeat sequences in all four members. A single locus mismatch due to a silent allele may occur in any locus using any kit. Accordingly, we should pay attention ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294256 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294256 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294255&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003630%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We present a case of a 44-year-old man, in apparent good health, who suddenly died during sleep. The autopsy revealed an hypopharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia that can provide the asphyxial mechanisms as cause of death.Furthermore, the anatomical finding could be integrated by a circumstantial piece of evidence: the death occurring during sleep. Some studies, in fact, have highlighted the physio-pathological mechanisms to explain sleep-disordered breathing, particularly the muscular and neural changes involving the pharynx.The asphyxial mechanism was also studied by an immunoistochemical analysis with the anti-Human Surfactant Apoprotein-A (SP-A) antibody. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294255 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294254&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622310000039%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An experimental DNA extraction kit (new kit) was recently developed to extract DNA from degraded skeletal remains without the need for powdering the samples. We compared the utility of the new kit with the conventional phenol/chloroform method using real-time quantitative PCR and multiplex STR analysis. The new kit yielded large amounts of DNA from a compact bone fragment compared with the conventional phenol/chloroform method. We were able to extract sufficient DNA for STR analysis from 75% (3 of 4) and 60% (3 of 5) of the un-powdered tooth and bone samples, respectively, using the new kit. We were able to perform mini-STR analysis of the remaining samples using DNA extracted with the new kit. Furthermore, we successfully performed mitochondrial DNA sequencing of every sample. T... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294254 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294251&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003654%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The drowning index (DI) was devised to diagnose drowning deaths, and is the weight ratio of the lungs and pleural effusion to the spleen. Among drowning (94 cases), mechanical asphyxia (47 cases), and acute cardiac (42 cases) deaths, within 2weeks postmortem we compared six markers, the weight of each lung, pleural effusion weight, total weight of the lungs and pleural effusion, spleen weight, heart weight, and the DI. Statistical analysis revealed that the total weight was heavier, while spleen weight was lighter, and the DI was significantly larger in the drowning group (p (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294251 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294251 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294249&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003605%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study demonstrates the absence of reactive gliosis in the striatum of chronic METH users who did not abstain for prolonged periods from METH use. The results suggest that chronic METH use by itself did not activate glial cells in humans and reactive gliosis may not be involved in the mechanism underlying the loss of control in drug intake, which is a characteristic feature of drug addiction. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294249 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3294249 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110956&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900371X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110956 Tue, 22 Dec 2009 16:12:27 +0100 3110956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110961&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003356%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Estimation of stature is one of the important component in identification of human remains in forensic anthropology. The present investigation attempts to estimate stature from seven facial measurements of 300 (173 males and 127 females) healthy subjects between the ages of 18–70years from Northwest India. Height of all the subjects was measured and facial measurements were taken. Data was subjected to statistical analysis like mean, standard deviation, multiplication factors, Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r), linear and multiple regression analyses using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). The average height of the subjects was in the range of 154.3–178.3cm in males and 155.1–168.4cm in females. Estimated stature calculated by regression analysis of... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110961 Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110963&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003381%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe an autopsy case of undiagnosed hemi-chylothorax accompanied by fatal acute pulmonary thromboembolism after pulmonary resection and lymph node dissection for lung cancer, reviewing the literature. The patient was a 60-year-old woman. She complained of dyspnea on the 20th postoperative day, which gradually increased. The patient suddenly died 2days later. Autopsy demonstrated right chylothorax (1000ml), and fatal acute pulmonary thromboembolism, mainly on the left side, originating from the lower extremities. Postoperative chylothorax, causing respiratory and pulmonary circulatory disturbance, may provide an important predisposition to ward fatality due to pulmonary thromboembolism even among those showing a milder type; thus careful management is necessary. (Source: Legal Medici... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110963 Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3294260&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003599%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In order to generate and establish the database for forensic identification purposes in Vojvodina Province (Serbia), the sequence of the hypervariable regions 1 (HV1) and 2 (HV2) of the mtDNA control region were determined in a population of 104 unrelated individuals from Vojvodina Province, using a fluorescent-based capillary electrophoresis sequencing method. A total of 93 different haplotypes were found, of these 83 mtDNA types were unique, nine haplotypes were shared by two individuals and one haplotype by three individuals. The variation of mtDNA HV1 and HV2 regions was confined to 116 nucleotide positions, of which 72 were observed in the HV1 and 44 in the HV2. A statistical estimate of the results for this population showed the genetic diversity of 0.9977 and the random ma... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3294260 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3294260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110967&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900337X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 15 STR autosomal loci of Identifiler kit (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818 and FGA) in the Moroccan population of Berber-speaking of Azrou, were assessed from a sample of 201 unrelated individuals. Markers D18S51, D2S1338, FGA and D21S11 present the highest power of discrimination (PD) values while D21S11 was the most polymorphic locus in the studied population. The phylogenetic tree established among worldwide populations, shows that Berber-speaking population of Azrou was so close to the Berber-speaking population of Asni but also to the Arab-speaking population of southern Morocco. Nevertheless, a significant distance was observed between populations of Azrou and Bouhria even th... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110967 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110966&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003368%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Haplotype, allele frequencies and population data of 12 Y-chromosome STR loci DYS19, DYS385, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438 and DYS439 were determined from a sample of 150 unrelated male individuals from El Salvador, Central America. A total of 131 haplotypes were identified by the 12 Y-STR loci of which 118 were unique. The haplotype diversity (99.08%) and the proportion of different haplotypes (87.33%) were estimated. RST genetic distances were calculated between El Salvador and other populations from Southern and Central America, Europe and Africa. The highest RST genetic distances were found when comparing El Salvador with African populations (0.334⩽RST⩽0.395). The lowest non-significant distance was found in the comparison with Honduras... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110966 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110966 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110965&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003344%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Two Y-STR genotyping systems were evaluated for usefulness in forensic casework in the Cape Muslim population of South Africa. Samples were collected from 105 males, and genotyped for 17 loci amplified in two multiplexes. Allele and haplotype frequencies were determined for nine Y-STR loci used to define the minimal haplotype (DYS19, DYS389-I, DYS389-II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, and the duplicated locus DYS385) amplified in one multiplex, as well as for eight widely used loci amplified in a second multiplex and consisting of DYS449, DYS481, DYS518, DYS557, DYS570, DYS607, DYS612 and DYS614. When analysing the samples for all the loci, 104 unique haplotypes were obtained, and the discrimination capacity was 0.990. When considering only the nine Y-STRs included in the minima... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110965 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110962&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003393%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study describes the short-term impacts of an on-site team of practising clinicians (Clinical Liaison Service, CLS), in enhancing the Coroner’s investigation for the prevention of healthcare-related deaths.Methods: An internal observational program evaluation was conducted where objective and externally verifiable achievements of CLS over a six-year period were provided in relation to definable program components.Results: From 2003–2008, the same conceptual model for CLS was in place.CLS developed and implemented for the death investigation process: (i) a working model for a comprehensive and standardised clinical review; (ii) a knowledge management strategy to enhance the healthcare sector access to information and coronial (iii) activities to improve communication channels betwee... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110962 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110960&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003332%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The color of postmortem lividity and control skin in 21 adult cadavers whose postmortem interval was within 72h, was measured by spectrophotometry in order to estimate the postmortem interval, objectively. The L∗a∗b∗ system, which has been widely used for the digital expression of skin color, was used and linear regression analysis was performed to determine the relationship between the postmortem interval and 31 color factors including L∗ (Value), a∗ and b∗ (Chroma and Hue) and C∗ (Chroma). The difference in Chroma between postmortem lividity and control skin (ΔC∗ and ) was only weakly correlated with the postmortem interval. We propose a new equation for calculating the postmortem interval using several color factors obtained by measurement of postmortem lividi... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110960 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110959&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003320%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study performed for the first time histochemical testing on animal models submerged in water: although the results became negative after the second month, some microscopic structure could still be recognized at the end of the experimental project; on the other hand, the search for diatoms in the samples proved the high possibility of post mortem contamination. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110959 Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973694&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003423%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973694 Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973694 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110964&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003319%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The radiological depiction of stab wounds in soft-tissues using multislice computed tomography is difficult and the hereby obtained images often lack contrast. To overcome these shortcomings we tried a new method.We gently instilled the contrast medium Lipiodol® Ultra-fluide into five experimentally induced stab wounds on a pork haunch. Subsequent MSCT reconstructions of the wounds delivered clear, for medical laymen easily appreciable images regarding the stab direction and the stab depth.We believe that this easy and rapid technique can be useful in the examination of stab wounds in living and dead victims of sharp trauma. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110964 Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110958&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003290%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The success of PCR-based genotyping of decomposed remains depends on the quality of extracted DNA. Hard tissues and muscles are preferred because of their DNA stability. However, in dismembered corpses the choice of a suitable DNA source is more limited. In short tandem repeat (STR) analysis in two cases of dismembered corpses, we found an advantage of using blood vessels over muscles. To confirm that blood vessels are better for STR typing compared to muscle, we collected nine sets of blood vessels and the adjacent muscle from six other decomposed remains and compared the STR profiles between the blood vessel and muscle samples. Better results for STR typing were obtained in blood vessels. Based on these results, we recommend use of blood vessels as material for PCR-based genoty... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110958 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110957&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003265%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Skeletal identification has a long tradition in both physical and forensic anthropology. The process generally begins with formulation of a biological profile (osteobiography); specifically, estimation of sex, age, ethnicity and stature. The present paper briefly reviews a selection of the principal methods used for one aspect of the identification process; the estimation of personal age. It is well-documented that variability in the morphological features used to assess age in the human skeleton progressively increases from birth to old age. Thus choice of method is inherently related to whether unidentified remains are those of a juvenile or an adult. This review, therefore, considers methods appropriate for age estimation in both juvenile and adult remains; the former being pr... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110957 Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973707&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003307%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined the statistics of accidental and suicidal death due to CO poisoning with reference to gender, age, month and place from The vital statistics submitted by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in Japan . The statistics show an increase in the number of lethal CO poisoning accidents from 1998 to 2007. Approximately two thirds of the accidental CO poisoning occurs during cold season (from November to April), and more than half at home. There have been many news reports on CO poisoning due to defects in household gas appliances, and manufacturer’s negligence, but the statistics do not tell the truth. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973707 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973702&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003289%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A 39-year-old woman collapsed after oral intake of 3,4-methylenedioxymethyl-amphetamine (MDMA, “ecstasy”). After ingestion of the drug, she had felt persistent discomfort in her anterior chest area, and lost consciousness for a few minutes on the following morning. She was transported to a hospital and died seven days after collapse. A serum sample obtained on admission revealed an MDMA concentration of 1.2mg/L, but no evidence of any other drug including amphetamine, methamphetamine, or other ring-substituted amphetamines. Microscopic examination at autopsy revealed striking changes in the heart, including small foci of myocyte necrosis with a surrounding macrophage inflammatory response, foci of fibrosis, and calcification accompanied by myocyte necrosis, these changes bein... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973702 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973700&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003277%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In forensic autopsy, there are numerous sudden methamphetamine (MA)-related deaths. The concentration of MA in the blood is measured to determine the cause of death in case of MA-related death. As a low concentration of MA is detected in MA-related death cases, it is sometimes difficult to identify to the cause of death. MA abusers often exhibit various cardiovascular diseases. MA induces arrhythmia and morphological change in cultured cardiomyocytes. Therefore, MA might affect heart cells, especially in terms of gene expression. Immediate early genes (IEGs) are expressed before some specific gene expressions following certain stimuli. We investigated the expression of IEGs, including c-fos, fos-B, c-jun and dusp-1 mRNA, in the mouse heart after a once-daily MA injection for 1day... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973700 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973699&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003253%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Autopsy findings and neuropathological examination of formalin-fixed brains in 676 deaths due to blunt head injury, here with special attention to injuries of the inner (periventricular) cerebral structures and haemorrhages into the ventricles.Intraventricular haemorrhage of any degree was present in 17.6%, considering only distinct and massive haemorrhage in 10% of all cases. Considering the types of trauma, the frequency was lowest in ground level falls and highest in traffic accidents (pedestrians with head contact to the car) – indicating a relation between the severity of impacts and the likelihood of ventricular haemorrhage. They predominantly resulted from periventricular injuries (27%) or retrograde expansions of infratentorial lesion with subarachnoid bleeding (19%), f... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973699 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973698&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003241%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Excessive autolytic inflammation accompanied by dysfunction of “shock organs” is recognized as arising from hemorrhagic shock due to the promotion of endovascular recruitment of neutrophils. Here, activated neutrophils in the organs of autopsy cases were evaluated as a marker of death from hemorrhagic shock. Morphologically-determined injury to the heart, lung, liver, and kidney was investigated in death from five major causes: hemorrhagic shock, head injury, exsanguination, asphyxia, and drowning. The frequency of activated neutrophils was assessed by immunohistochemical staining. When the antemortem interval was less than 2h, it was found that neither morphological damage nor neutrophil frequencies were significantly different after death due to any of these 5 causes. In co... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973698 Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973703&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900323X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Inherited mutations in the human cardiac sodium channel (SCN5A) gene cause arrhythmogenic diseases such as tachyarrhythmia and bradyarrhythmia. Moreover, mutation subsets in the coding region impair SCN5A function, potentially leading to sudden cardiac death (SCD). In the present study, we performed diplotype analysis of the regulatory region of the SCN5A gene in Japanese people who died suddenly because of an unknown cause (sudden death group; n=70) and controls (n=112). There were no significant differences at six polymorphic loci between the groups. However, 38 diplotypes of 6-nucleotide polymorphism variants were identified. One of these diplotypes—Dip.D (CTG–TC/CCG–TC)—occurred significantly more frequently in the sudden death group than in the controls (p (Source: L... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973703 Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973695&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003010%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, from the preserved blood samples of 32 freshwater drowning cases, specific DNA fragments of Aeromonas sobria, one of the most common aquatic bacteria, were examined using PCR. The DNA fragments of the bacterium were detected from 27 of 32 cases with first round PCR or nested-PCR. The remaining 5 cases in which bacterial DNA was not detected had longer storage periods for the blood samples and shorter time intervals from drowning to death. These results indicate that the present method can be applied to the diagnosis of death by drowning. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973695 Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973706&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003228%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies of the 15 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D3S1358, THO1, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D5S818 and FGA were determined in Afridi Pathan population of Uttar Pradesh, India. All the 15 STR loci studied were found to be highly polymorphic with respect to observed heterozygosity values. Adherence to the expectations of the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was confirmed for all the loci with an exception of TPOX and FGA. The allele 12 in CSF1PO was found to be most frequent. The power of discrimination was found to be high ranging from a minimum of 0.858 for the locus CSFIPO to maximum of 0.962 for the locus FGA, thereby facilitating the validation and efficiency of these STR markers in human identif... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973706 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973705&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003216%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for the 15 STR loci (D3S1358, TH01, D21S11, D18S51, Penta E, D5S818, D13S317, D7S820, D16S539, CSF1PO, Penta D, VWA, D8S1179, TPOX and FGA) were investigated using PowerPlex®16 amplification kit in a sample of 328 unrelated individuals from Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The allelic distributions were in Hardy Weinberg equilibrium for all loci except for the loci FGA, TPX and THO1. Various forensic indices were calculated and a comparison was made with geographically nearby populations. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973705 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973704&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003009%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 15 STR autosomal loci (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, VWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818 and FGA) were obtained from a sample of 200 unrelated individuals from Bolivia, South America. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973704 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973701&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002995%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A six-month-old infant was found dead in a small dustbin in an upside-down position. The police investigation showed that there was no criminal environment including negligence. Analysis at the scene suggested death caused by asphyxia (wedging death). Microscopically, however, diffuse lymphocyte infiltration was observed in the interstitial spaces of the myocardium. Common symptoms of infantile myocarditis are generally non-specific, and the predominant neurological problem is a decrease in activity. The records of rectal temperature suggested that the decedent was dead without a high fever. In the present case, there was no obvious relationship between myocarditis and movement of the infant. We conclude that myocarditis was coincidental to the cause of death by asphyxia. (Source... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973701 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973697&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003034%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, we examined the usefulness of post-mortem imaging with multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in detecting lesions of the laryngohyoid structures and the surrounding soft-tissues. For this purpose, we examined MSCT images of the neck of eight deceased persons who had suffered different types of strangulation and compared the findings with those obtained at the subsequent forensic autopsy.In six of the eight cases (75%), the fracture findings at autopsy were concordant with those found with MSCT. In the two non-congruent cases, MSCT revealed fractures, which were not discovered at autopsy.Soft-tissue haemorrhages were detected by autopsy in five cases, but only in one case with MSCT. MSCT does not suffice in detecting soft-tissue injuries.These preliminary results are promisin... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973697 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973697 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2973696&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309003022%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was to derive regression formulae for stature estimation from long limb bones in a Japanese population. Moreover, commonly employed estimation equations, such as that of Fujii, were re-evaluated through application of current data. To construct equations, measurements were conducted on 434 living subjects (342 females and 92 males; 18–59years old). The whole or maximum length of the femur, tibia, and humerus was determined radiographically using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, which permitted measurement of long bones with no magnification. Regression formulae were constructed for females and males relative to the real body height measured in the erect position. Lower limbs of the femur and tibia were more accurate predictors (R=0.813–0.903) than the humer... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2973696 Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2973696 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708717&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900306X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708717 Tue, 18 Aug 2009 11:50:05 +0100 2708717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708723&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002971%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We experienced two autopsy cases of fulminant sepsis due to anaerobes. Case 1: A 67-year-old female with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM) was admitted to a hospital because of sudden onset of mid-abdominal pain. She was diagnosed with infectious colitis and given a laxative and an enema. However, 9h later, her blood pressure suddenly dropped with metabolic acidosis, and she died 20h after admission. Autopsy revealed massive pneumohemia and a dark-brown colored mucosal surface from the terminal ileum to the sigmoid colon. Histopathological findings were compatible with marginal ischemic colitis. Anaerobes were positive in blood culture. Case 2: A 53-year-old male with alcoholic liver cirrhosis (LC) was found dead in his room. He had been alive 24h before the discovery, but post... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708723 Sun, 02 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708723 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708724&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002983%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Body stalk anomaly (BSA) is a sporadic polymalformative syndrome incompatible with extrauterine life. In utero detection of BSA by two-dimensional and three-dimensional ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging has been well documented. We herein describe a case of body stalk anomaly diagnosed at autopsy. The fetus had a large anterior midline abdominal wall defect with eventration of the visceral organs into the amnio-peritoneal sac and a completely absent umbilical cord. The associated anomalies included club foot, absent diaphragm, genitourinary, and gastrointestinal defects. The observed congenital anomalies supported the theory of embryonic dysgenesis as the etiologic factor. One of the major objectives in the performance of fetal autopsy is to be able to detect abnorma... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708724 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708724 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708718&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002752%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the wound healing process, angiogenesis is involved in the recovery of vasculature, and its process has been investigated. On the other hand, the reconstruction of lymphatic vessels in the injured subcutaneous tissue has not been studied in detail. We studied the recovery of lymphatic vessels using podoplanin immunohistochemistry in the paraffine section microscopy of the rat skin incision wound. Our result indicates a novel finding that subcutaneous tissue of the incised skin area does not show any recovery of lymphatic vessels up to 84days after the skin incision. As the wound area shrunk, the surrounding subcutaneous tissue covered with the normal skin epithelial cells approached toward the center of the wound, and the lymphatic vessels in the surrounding tissue gradually r... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708718 Thu, 23 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708727&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002958%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Haplotype, allele frequencies and population data of 12 Y-chromosome STR loci DYS19, DYS385, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438 and DYS439 were determined from a sample of 128 unrelated male individuals from Honduras, Central America. A total of 112 haplotypes were identified by the 12 Y-STR loci of which 98 were unique. The haplotype diversity (98.99%) and the proportion of different haplotypes (87.50%) were estimated. Genetic distances were calculated between Honduras and other populations from Southern and Central America, Europe and Africa. The analysis of a Multi Dimensional Scaling (MDS) plot, based on pairwise RST genetic distances, allowed to conclude that Honduras is highly differentiated from the African samples (0.343⩽RST⩽0.620; P=0.0... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708727 Wed, 22 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708727 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708719&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900296X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We describe the characteristic features of shark injuries on 12 corpses. The analysis of these injuries might reveal the motivation behind the attacks and/or the shark species involved in the attack. Gouge marks on the bones are evidence of a shark attack, even if the corpse is decomposed. Severance of the body part at the joints without a fracture was found to be a characteristic feature of shark injuries. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708719 Tue, 21 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708721&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002521%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A 52-year-old man was found dead in his bed. He had financial and psychosocial problems like separation from his wife and children or unemployment due to alcoholism. Under treatment of disulfiram he was presently abstinent from alcohol. As he had suffered from epileptic seizures and dizziness, he received valproic acid and the vasodilator naftidrofuryl, respectively. Autopsy showed no morphologic cause of death. Chemical analysis of blood revealed concentrations for valproic acid and disulfiram in the therapeutic and above the therapeutic range but far below the lethal level, respectively. No ethanol was found. However, the very high concentration of 7500μg/L naftidrofuryl in whole blood was considered as cause of death, and the most probable manner of death seemed to be suicide... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708721 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708721 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708720&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002478%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In conclusion, X-ray examination seems to be an effective adjunct in forensic pathology for localization of an implanted coronary stent and careful investigation of the coronary artery surrounding the stent. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708720 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708726&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002466%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: STR multiplex is a practical and simple method to obtain large amounts of important information in forensic and population genetic studies. The present work describes a new multiplex system that allows the simultaneous analysis of 4 X-STR markers, namely DXS9902, DXS6800, DXS6799 and DXS7132, as the tool of approach for X-STR studies. In addition, this work presents the genotyping results obtained for a sample 400 individuals (200 males and 200 females) from Beijing Han ethnic group in China. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708726 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708725&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900251X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study indicated the possibility that urinalysis would be helpful to estimate PMI. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708725 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2708722&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002533%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Mast cell tryptase can be an indicator of type I hypersensitivity reaction and thus may serve as a surrogate marker of anaphylaxis. A 34-year-old white male patient presented with a history of systemic lupus erythematosus. Shortly after administration of cefazolin for dialysis, he developed pruritis and shortness of breath. He expired an hour later. Autopsy excluded anatomic causes of death. There was an elevated postmortem mast cell tryptase level, 29.2ng/mL. For mast cell tryptase level to be useful, the patient must survive long enough after exposure to an allergen for mast cells to release this enzyme. A credible allergen must be identified. In this case such, mast cell tryptase could establish anaphylaxis as the cause of death. The case suggests that in a patient with autoim... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2708722 Tue, 09 Jun 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2708722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2427514&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002788%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2427514 Thu, 21 May 2009 18:13:42 +0100 2427514 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2427516&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002442%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Y-chromosomal 28 short tandem repeat (STR) loci were investigated in unrelated healthy individuals of the Ovambo population from Namibia (n=54). Sixteen Y-chromosome short tandem repeat (Y-STR) polymorphic loci (DYS456, DYS389I, DYS390, DYS389II, DYS458, DYS19, DYS385, DYS393, DYS391, DYS439, DYS635, DYS392, GATAH4, DYS437, DYS438, and DYS448) were analyzed using AmpFISTR Yfiler Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Amplification Kit. DYS441–445 and DYS446, DYS447, DYS449, DYS450, DYS459a/b, DYS463 and DYS464a/b/c/d were investigated using a multiplex PCR system. Fifty-one haplotypes were identified in 54 Ovambos. The STR diversity values for Y-STRs loci ranged from 0.036 (DYS392) to 0.900 (DYS 385). (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2427516 Wed, 13 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2427516 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2427517&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002454%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Nine miniSTR loci were analyzed in 191 unrelated individuals from Korea using three multiplex PCR systems (multiplex I: D1S1677, D2S441 and D4S2364; multiplex II: D10S1248, D14S1434 and D22S1045; multiplex III: D12S391, D16S3253 and D20S161). Due to the short PCR amplicons ( (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2427517 Fri, 08 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2427517 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2427515&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002430%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Wound age estimation for human dermal wounds was performed based on quantification of interleukin 1β (IL 1β), IL 5, IL 7, IL 12 p70, IL 13, IL 17, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP 1), and macrophage inflammatory protein 1β (MIP 1β). IL 5, IL 12 p 70, IL 13, and IL 17 increased from the early phase, MCP 1 exclusively in the middle phase, and IL 1β, G-CSF, and MIP 1β from the middle phase to the late phase. IL 7 decreased from the early phase. Among the cytokines analyzed in the present study, MCP 1 was the most plentiful cytokine. In addition, an outsourced examination, which could be available to any forensic institute, was performed in two cases for confirmative purposes. Many factors have been proposed as markers for d... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2427515 Wed, 06 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2427515 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329447&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001631%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for fifteen STR loci, D3S1358, TH01, D21S11, D18S51, D2S1338, D5S818, D13S317, D7S820, D16S539, CSF1PO, D19S433, vWA, D8S1179, TPOX and FGA, were investigated in a Filipino ethnic group resident in the United States and in the Philippines. Statistical evaluation of the data collected indicated the population to be in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and therefore acceptable for calculations in forensic and family relatedness casework. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329447 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:30 +0100 2329447 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329446&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309000583%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification using the AmpFl STR Identifiler kit was performed in a random sample of 204 unrelated individuals from the Arabic-speaking population of the southern Morocco. Allele frequencies of 15 STRs loci (D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, D19S433, CSF1PO, TH01 and D3S1358) have been reported in this population. Markers D18S51, FGA, D2S1338 and D21S11 had the highest power of discrimination (PD) values while TH01 was the most informative locus in the studied population. The phylogenetic tree established among worldwide populations and genetic distance values show a great affinity between the Southern Moroccan population, Saudian, Moroccan of Asni and Andalusian. Our data is useful for anthropolog... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329446 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:29 +0100 2329446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329445&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309000029%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The population genetic data of 10 X-chromosomal short tandem repeats (STR) loci DXS101, DXS7130, DXS6804, DXS7133, DXS7132, DXS6799, DXS8378, DXS6789, DXS7423 and HPRTB were analyzed in samples of unrelated individuals from Chinese Daur population. Average heterozygosity of above 10 STR loci was 0.6489 and the DXS6789 was the most polymorphic. The exact test for female data showed no significant deviation from the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (P>0.05). Allele frequencies between male and female samples were not significantly different in all examined loci. Further, the allelic frequencies of Daur ethnic population were compared with those of other populations, and most of loci were significantly different from each other (P=0.05). Presented study is potential extension to a batte... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329445 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:28 +0100 2329445 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329444&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001661%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for the 13 CODIS markers plus D2S1358 and D19S433 loci were estimated in a sample of 148 unrelated individuals from Bolivia and parameters of forensic interest were calculated. Further, the STR data were analyzed using a distance-based method to assess the genetic relationships of this population with other ones living in Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, Mexico, Peru, Venezuela and three autochthonous populations living in the Beni Department of Bolivia (Quechua, Aymara and Beni population). (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329444 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:27 +0100 2329444 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329443&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001430%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequency data and forensic efficiency parameters for six miniSTR loci: D1S1677, D2S441, D4S2364 (NC01), D10S1248, D14S1434, D22S1045 (NC02) were estimated from a sample of 116 unrelated individuals from Poland. No significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium expectations were detected. The combined power of discrimination for the six studied loci was 0.999995383. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329443 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:25 +0100 2329443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329442&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001387%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study reports the genetic polymorphic data of 15 autosomal STRs D3S1358, TH01, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, D7S820, D16S539, CSF1PO, vWA, D8S1179, TPOX, D2S1338, D19S433, and FGA observed in Han ethnic group living in Jinan, Shandong, China. The combined match probability and exclusion probability for 15 loci was 3.89×10−17 and 0.99997, respectively. No mutations at these loci were found in 78 pedigrees, and Chi-test of allelic frequencies in 420 unrelated samples showed no departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium at these loci. The pairwise comparisons between Jinan and 41 reference populations were performed. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329442 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:22 +0100 2329442 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329441&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800165X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a genetic disorder of skeletal muscle in susceptible individuals that is triggered by exposure to anesthetic agents, and can cause death. Mutations in the ryanodine receptor type 1 gene (RYR1) are associated with MH-susceptibility. MH is also triggered in susceptible individuals by severe exercise in hot conditions or by overheating in infants. Here, we report a case of a child, 2years, 9months of age, who was left in a car and exposed to a high environmental temperature. The child was suspected to have died of heat stroke by autopsy examinations. Postmortem mutation analysis revealed that the child possessed two distinct RYR1 mutations. Since each mutation had previously been identified in a separate MH-susceptible patient, MH-susceptibility with o... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329441 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:20 +0100 2329441 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329440&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001648%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Penetrating or stab injuries of the chest are not uncommon and could be accidental, suicidal or homicidal. However, the present case discusses the importance of a careful examination of an unusual presentation in a motor vehicle accident. The case presented with haemopericardium and haemothorax due to penetrating rib injury to the heart, subsequent to blunt force trauma on the posterior chest wall. This case is highlighted, so that it becomes a necessary tool for the forensic experts to have an unprejudiced approach at autopsy and come to a reasonable conclusion. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329440 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:18 +0100 2329440 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329439&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001624%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Mercury is known to be associated with both acute and chronic poisoning. A 36-year-old man intentionally ingested mercuric chloride (HgCl2) and died within 24h. Post-mortem CT images showed oral, esophageal and gastric wall hyperdense “staining”. On toxicological analysis, the blood concentration of mercury was measured at 25.5mg/L; a figure far higher than reported lethal levels. Autopsy was not performed in order to prevent potential inhalation of mercury vapor by pathology staff. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329439 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:15 +0100 2329439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329438&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001417%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An accidental case of aconite intoxication occurred after a patient took a therapeutic dose of Kampo herbal medicine containing Aconiti tuber, Uzu but had used the wrong decoction procedure. The poisoning was likely caused by an increased level of Aconitum alkaloids in the decoction; the patient developed aconite intoxication due to incomplete decoction. Aconitum alkaloid levels in the leftover solution which the patient had drunk and in the decoction extracted from 3g Uzu were determined. It was found that decoction makes the medicine safer to drink. Older individuals, especially those with dementia, have a higher risk of aconite poisoning because they sometimes do not boil the medicine appropriately. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329438 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:11 +0100 2329438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329437&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001429%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigated a region of repetitive DNA located in intron 40 of the von Willebrand factor (vWF) gene (nucleotides [nt] 1639–2404; i.e., F8VWF). We identified 13 alleles and 33 genotypes in 49 unrelated Japanese individuals. The heterozygosity of the region was 0.897. Direct sequence analyses revealed five single-base substitutions, one tetranucleotide (TTAT) insertion, and seven short tandem repeats (STRs) in the intron; four of the STRs and one single-base substitution had been reported previously. The four new base substitutions we identified were 1849T>A, 2122C>T, 2180C>T, and 2192C>T. The novel TTAT tetranucleotide was inserted between nt 2057 and 2058. The three newly identified STRs were 1978(TATC)1–2, 2193(ATCT)5–13, and 2234(TGTA)5–7. The five single-base subst... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329437 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:09 +0100 2329437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329436&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001375%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Multiplex mRNA profiling by a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) has been reported in the last few years as a new approach for the identification of body fluids. We have also demonstrated the feasibility of identifying body fluids by using a real-time RT-PCR assay. Statherin (STATH) and histatin (HTN3), the selected genes for saliva, and protamin 2 (PRM2) and semenogelin 1 (SEMG1), those selected for semen, showed high specificity to these body fluids. Thus, the sensitivity and specificity of target genes were examined in body fluid stains. All target genes were detected in 0.1μL 6-day-old stains, and showed high specificity in 7-day-old 30μL stains. Furthermore, the stability of HTN3 in saliva stains was examined under various environmental conditions ove... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329436 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:07:05 +0100 2329436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329435&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001442%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Cortical hemorrhages as a consequence of closed mechanical brain injury (MBI) trigger an inflammatory response including a distinct increase of macrophages. According to published data this reactive macrophage population is heterogenous as to their immunological properties. The expression of certain immunohistochemically detectable epitopes of macrophages, however, may correlate with the posttraumatic interval (PTI).In a pilot study, 50 selected cases of cortical hemorrhages with 1 min to 1.5 years PTI were examined by light microscopy and macrophages were labeled with CD68-, HLA-D-, HAM-56-, LN-5-, and 25F9-antibodies, while hemosiderin was detected by a Prussian-blue reaction. Qualitative and semiquantitative investigations were performed. The semiquantitative study included 5 ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329435 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:06:57 +0100 2329435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329434&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001636%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: This paper presents a review of the literature referring to the estimation of the time of death (TOD) over nearly 200 years. Emphasis is put on the development of the methods taking advantage of the decrease in body temperature after death, measured in various body sites. The review is complemented by the first authors’ own experiences on TOD estimation based on post mortem temperature measurements in the eyeball and orbit soft tissues. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329434 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:06:55 +0100 2329434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329433&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001399%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Turkey has a short history of forensic medicine compared to the developed countries. Sultan Mahmud II established the first medical school of the Ottoman Empire named as Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane to provide health services to the army in 1839 [Gok S. Tomorrow, today and yesterday of the forensic medicine. 1st ed. Istanbul: Temel printing office; 1995]. It is also accepted as an important milestone of both medical education and forensic medicine in Turkey [Gok S and Ozen C. History and organization of forensic. 1st ed. Istanbul: Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical School Publications; 1982]. The first lecturer of forensic medicine at Mekteb-i Tıbbiye-i Şahane was Dr. Charles Ambroise Bernard (C.A.). and he was also the first to perform autopsy in the history of Ottoman Empi... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329433 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:06:50 +0100 2329433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2329432&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002259%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2329432 Fri, 17 Apr 2009 18:06:49 +0100 2329432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506945&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002004%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Fifteen autosomal STR loci included in the PowerPlex®16 System were typed in a population sample of 125 unrelated individuals from Palestinian population of Gaza Strip. Allele frequencies, Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium and forensic parameters were determined for the following loci: Penta E, D18S51, D21S11, TH01, D3S1358, FGA, TPOX, D8S1179, vWA, Penta D, CSF1PO, D16S539, D7S820, D13S317 and D5S818. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506945 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506945 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506944&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001990%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 11 STR autosomal loci (D3S1358, vWA, D16S539, D2S1338, D8S1179, SE33, D19S433, TH01, FGA, D21S11, D18S51) were analysed in unrelated individuals undergoing paternity testing in Rio Grande do Sul State, Southern Brazil. The most polimorphic locus was SE33. The distributions of the genotypes in the evaluated loci are in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium after Bonferroni’s correction. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506944 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506944 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506941&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002065%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An 87-year-old female who had been hospitalized due to pneumonia was administered nourishment through a nasogastric tube. She collapsed as a result of dyspnea after the insertion of a new tube and administration of nourishment. Chest X-rays revealed that the tube was inserted into the left pleural cavity passing the trachea and left bronchi and that the nourishment pooled. In spite of immediate treatment including removal of the tube and insertion of a drain, she died 12 days later. Autopsy findings: Both the left pulmonary and parietal pleurae were thickened and covered with a dirty gray-yellowish moss-like paste. The left lower lobe was softened, and this region was suspected as the ruptured site of the pleura. Histological findings: A part of the thick pleura with inflammatory... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506941 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506941 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506940&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309002429%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We investigated the transcriptome profile of mechanical asphyxia and decapitation at 60min after death using serial analysis of gene expression. After comparing the results, 11 genes were significantly increased by the mechanical asphyxia treatment in the mouse lung. Of those genes, quantitative real-time PCR revealed that Dual specificity phosphatase 1 (Dusp1), TGF-beta stimulated gene 22, domain family protein 3 (TSC22d3) and Luc7 homolog (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)-like (Luc7l) after asphyxia were more significantly increased than those after decapitation. Dusp1 inactivated mitogen activated protein kinase, which functions in cell proliferation. However, the consumption of oxygen had a disadvantageous effect on survival, because tissue or cells were not able to produce energy b... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506940 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506939&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230900217X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We experienced suicidal hanging cases without a ligature in front of the neck. We conducted several anatomical autopsies and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and studied the dynamics behind hanging by applying an apparatus to cadaver and creating a dummy.MRI revealed that the vertebral artery protrudes diagonally upward from the second vertebra to the first one. We also found that this area was not covered with any bony tissue. The average length between the first and second transverse processes was 2cm. We measured the minimum required force to obstruct the blood stream in both carotid and vertebral arteries exerting 130mmHg. The required force was 6kg for the carotid artery and 7kg for the vertebral artery. Compared to the reported cases, there was not a significant differ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506939 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506939 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506938&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001679%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We discuss the usefulness of postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) by reviewing cases of cervical spine injury. A merit of PMCT is that it can identify injury that cannot be found on autopsy; however, peculiar defects of it may exist. While PMCT can identify bone fractures, it cannot indicate whether the injury was inflicted while the deceased was still alive or not because of its inability to clearly image bleeding around the fracture. Furthermore, CT often misses some types of cervical spine injuries, such as laceration of an intervertebral disk and incomplete fracture of the cervical spine. On the other hand, cervical spine injury on CT images occasionally has an appearance similar to subarachnoid hemorrhage due to rupture of the cerebral artery, indicating that cervical spine... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506938 Sun, 12 Apr 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2506938 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506943&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001655%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies of 15 autosomal STR loci included in PowerPlex™ 16 System were determined from a sample of 148 unrelated Bangladeshi individuals. Forensic efficiency parameters such as, the power of discrimination (PD), observed and expected heterozygosity (H), polymorphism information content (PIC), probability of match (PM), power of exclusion (PE), and typical paternity index were calculated for the loci. These parameters indicated the usefulness of the loci in paternity testing and personal identification in the Bangladeshi population. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506943 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2506943 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506942&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001643%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study constructed two miniSTR panels comprising six miniSTR loci, including D2S1776, D3S4529, D6S474, D9S2157, D10S1435 and D12ATA63. The allele frequency distribution, forensic parameters and heterozygosity in three Singapore populations are reported in this paper. All six loci showed relatively high polymorphism with observed heterozygosity >0.7. However, many of these six loci also demonstrated significant population differentiation for the three populations. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506942 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2506942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2506937&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309001667%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Widmark formula suggests estimating blood alcohol concentration level (BAC) on a given amount of alcohol administrated with knowledge of subject’s body weight and sex. The idea has been referenced extensively in forensic science with application in drink driving prosecution. A sample of Chinese subjects was collected in the drinking experiment, and in this study we mainly focus on the verification of the validity of Widmark formula on Chinese male population. A promising result is obtained where the extrapolated BAC measurement is directly proportional to the amount of alcohol administrated, and inversely to the subject’s body weight. The results noted in the general linear model is further supported by the nonlinear regression analysis and a concordant argument reaches by de... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2506937 Mon, 16 Mar 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2506937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145439&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001351%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: One hundred and twenty-three unrelated individuals belonging to two ethnic groups (Shinwa and Zarab) of Asian ancestry from Reunion Island (Indian Ocean) were analyzed for 10 Y-STR loci. Haplotype diversity and frequencies were determined for loci DYS19, DYS385a/b, DYS388, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393 and YCAIIa/b. The two ethnic groups do not share haplotypes, and a total of 98 distinct haplotypes were identified. Unique haplotypes were obtained for 49 Shinwa and 33 Zarab. Moreover, 52 of the identified distinct haplotypes revealed to have not been described to date. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145439 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:36 +0100 2145439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145438&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001326%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Seventeen Y-STRs included in AmpFlSTR Yfiler™ PCR Amplification Kit (Applied Biosystems, USA) were studied in males from a multi ethnical population from El Beni Department (North Bolivia). Haplotypic and allelic frequencies were reported. Comparison of El Beni population with other samples from the region was carried out through Multidimensional Scalling over Rst distances matrix. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145438 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:36 +0100 2145438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145437&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800103X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Using the Applied Biosystems’ AmpFℓSTR® SGM Plus® PCR amplification kit, we studied the allele frequency distribution of 10 STR loci in two south Asian populations: one from the Gujarat region of India represented by 172 unrelated Gujaratis, now resident in England; and a Pakistani population, represented by 155 unrelated individuals. Gujarat borders southeast Pakistan. There were no significant deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in either population after Bonferroni correction. The combined power of discrimination and exclusion for the Indian population were 0.999999999999544 and 0.9999785, respectively; for the Pakistani population, they were 0.999999999999865 and 0.9998975, respectively. FST (or θ) between these two populations was estimated as 0.00146. (Sourc... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145437 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:35 +0100 2145437 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145436&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001405%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We detected numerous bioluminescent bacteria in blood samples from two cadavers that had been immersed in estuarine environments. Autopsy, diatomaceous and toxicological findings indicated death by drowning, which agreed with environmental aspects and the findings of police investigations. Bioluminescent bacteria appeared in blood samples cultured on selective agar containing 2%, 3% and 4% NaCl after about 18h. Blood from the left side of the heart, the right side of the heart and the femoral vein generated 7.0×102, 2.0×104 and 8.0×102cfu/ml of blood (case 1), and 1.8×104, 1.1×103 and 2.5×101cfu/ml (case 2) of bioluminescent colonies, respectively, in agar containing 4% NaCl. Homologous analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene also identified the bioluminescent colonies as Vibri... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145436 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:34 +0100 2145436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145435&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001302%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We report a case of a 74-year-old man injured by a kick to the abdomen. After 2 days he felt chest pain paroxysm and weakness in his left leg. The patient was admitted to an emergency care department where he experienced sudden and severe hemodynamic deterioration, dying rapidly. The autopsy, performed 3 days later, showed haemorragic infarction of hypogastric subcutaneous tissues and revealed an extended dissecting aneurysm of the thoracic aorta with following haemopericardium. In our case we considered that a low energy compression to the abdomen, in presence of underlying atherosclerosis, caused aortic dissection rather than rupture and then the 48h time span after the traumatic event and the cardiac tamponade was enough to complete the aortic retrograde dissection. We finally emphasise... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145435 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:29 +0100 2145435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145434&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001053%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We encountered an autopsy case related to a terrorist attack using a ball-bearing bomb. The decedent was a 51-year-old male without significant medical histories. During dinner in a restaurant, the perpetrator suddenly exploded a ball-bearing bomb, the blast from which blew the victim off his chair. The victim was found to be unresponsive, and pronounced dead. X-ray photographs taken before autopsy revealed six spherical shadows. Three penetrating wounds in the head, one in the neck and chest, and two in the left upper arm were observed in vivo. Six projectiles recovered from the body were identified as ball-bearings, one of which traveled through the midbrain, diencephalon, and left temporal lobe. Although blast injuries and penetrating wounds are often combined in bomb attack v... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145434 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:28 +0100 2145434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145433&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001363%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A simple and rapid method was developed for the routine determination and classification of inorganic arsenic based on its clinical and forensic properties. Inorganic arsenic was isolated from urine by using copper granules, which was then made to react with ammonium molybdate in order to detect its presence with the naked eye. Based on studies of extraction and reaction conditions, e.g., reaction temperature and time, a colorimetric screening method was established. The reaction mixture was measured by a spectrophotometer, and there was linearity from 0.05 to 2.0μg/ml and the correlation coefficients of the calibration curves were greater than 0.99. The coefficients of intra-day variation at 0.2 and 2.0μg/ml of inorganic arsenic in urine were 9.6 and 4.2%, respectively (n=5). ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145433 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:26 +0100 2145433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145432&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001338%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Bone tissue is often used for recovering DNA samples for the purpose of human identification. However, the initial cleaning and sampling of the bone specimen is a labor-intensive and time-consuming step, which must be completed prior to isolating DNA. Thus, it is difficult to adapt the current method for automation. To address this issue, we have developed a simple processing method using a trypsin treatment prior to DNA isolation. The use of the trypsin-based procedure potentially reduces the amount of labor required by a physical method such as sanding. By incubating samples with the trypsin solution, the soft tissue and outer surface of the bone fragment samples are removed. The processed bone fragment or a portion of the fragment can then be used for DNA isolation. (Source: L... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145432 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:25 +0100 2145432 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145431&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800134X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: RNA analysis has been applied to forensic work to determine wound age. We investigated mRNA expression using quantitative RT-PCR of ten genes, including c-fos, fosB, mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), CD14, chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 9 (CCL9), placenta growth factor (PlGF), mast cell protease-5 (MCP-5), growth arrest specific 5 (Gas5), beta-2 microglobulin (B2M) and major urinary protein-1 (MUP-1), in terms of repair response in adult mice. The expression level of c-fos, fosB and MKP-1 transcripts increased drastically, peaked within 1h, and that of the CD14 and CCL9 transcripts peaked from 12 to 24h. An increase in PlGF and MCP-5 mRNA appeared on about day 5. Gas5, B2M and MUP-1 transcripts showed no significant change. Each gene had differentially express... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145431 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:17 +0100 2145431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145430&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001296%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A total of 3046 males of Chinese, Malay, Thai, Japanese, and Indian population affinity were previously typed for the Y STR loci DYS19, DYS385 (counted as two loci), DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, DYS448, and Y GATA H4 using the AmpFlSTR® Yfiler™ kit. These samples were assessed for population genetic parameters that impact forensic statistical calculations. All population samples were highly polymorphic for the 16 Y STR markers with the marker DYS385 being the most polymorphic, because it is comprised of two loci. Most (2677 out of a total of 2806 distinct haplotypes) of the 16 marker haplotypes observed in the sample populations were represented only once in the data set. Haplotype diversities were greater t... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145430 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:15 +0100 2145430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145429&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001077%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Electric injury may cause different changes from minimal damage (e.g. small burns) to severe complications up to death. Several morphological changes of the skin and the internal organs are used for the diagnosis of electrical injury. However, macroscopic findings and histological changes of the internal organs and the skin may be absent in many cases. Furthermore, neuropsychological changes including deficits of cognitive functions may be seen in survivor victims.The aim of the present study is to examine whether electric injury causes decreasing in the number of pyramidal neurons in the rat hippocampus and whether this decreasing can be demonstrated by stereological method.The rats were separated into three groups: first group, native control group; second group, the points of ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145429 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:11:06 +0100 2145429 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145428&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001089%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article reviews what our colleagues have found as to how ischemic injury or cell death develop in myocardium through Ca2+-dependent protease calpain and how compensatory responses evolve through activation of intracellular signaling molecules including PKC isoforms, MAP kinase family enzymes and PI3 kinase. We also addressed how restraint or other psychological stress evokes hypertension and cardiovascular responses in signaling molecules or genes. Unexpectedly, carbon monoxide protects heart and cardiogenic cells against ischemia-resperfusion injury. When I think back, the unresolved cases of autopsies provided ideas for experimental study, which then taught us how the other cases died. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145428 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:10:51 +0100 2145428 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2145427&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622309000728%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2145427 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 18:10:47 +0100 2145427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043357&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001314%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 15 STR loci included in AmpFlSTR Identifiler kit (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818, and FGA) were determined in a sample of 1977 unrelated individuals living in the region of Transylvania (NW Romania). No deviations from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium were observed with the exception of D3S1358 and D16S539. Genetic parameters of forensic interest were calculated and comparison with geographically nearby populations was performed. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043357 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:40:24 +0100 2043357 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043356&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001041%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Fifteen short tandem repeats (STR) markers were analyzed (TPOX, D2S1338, D3S1358, FGA, D5S818, CSF1PO, D7S820, D8S1179, TH01, vWA, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D19S433, and D21S11) in unrelated individuals undergoing paternity studies from Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Allele frequencies and statistical parameters for the 15 loci were calculated. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043356 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:40:21 +0100 2043356 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043355&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001028%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Genotypic polymorphism studies at 15 highly polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) loci were carried out in two populations belonging to one caste and one tribal group of Madhya Pradesh, in central region of India. These include 110 individuals from Brahmin caste (Kanyakubj) and 89 from Gond tribe (Ojha). The 15 loci studied are: 13 CODIS STR core markers, i.e., D8S1179, D3S1358, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, THO1, D13S317, D16S539, D5S818, FGA and 2 other loci D19S433 and D2S1338. The results show departure from the Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium with respect to two loci, viz., D3S1358 and FGA in Gond tribe and at seven loci, viz., D21S11, D19S433, TPOX, D18S51, THO1, D5S818, and FGA in Brahmin caste. Population differentiation tests between the two studied populations... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043355 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:40:19 +0100 2043355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043354&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000801%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: One hundred twenty-five unrelated individuals (69 females and 56 males) from Sassari (Northern Sardinia) and Orgosolo (Central Sardinia) were typed for 15 STRs loci. The 56 males were typed for 12 Y chromosome STRs loci too. Frequency distribution is described. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043354 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:40:19 +0100 2043354 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043353&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001016%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An autopsy case of spontaneous rupture of a clinically undiagnosed inflammatory aneurysm of the aortic sinus is presented. A 34-year-old man consulted a physician complaining of anterior chest pain and heartburn persisting for 2 days. Diagnoses of common cold and gastritis were made, but 3h later his condition deteriorated, leading to death. Autopsy revealed hemopericardium due to rupture of a saccular aneurysm of the aortic sinus. Histological examination of the aortic sinus disclosed aortitis characterized by fragmentation and loss of elastic tissues with fibrous thickening of the intima. Lymphocytes along with polymorphonuclear leucocytes and plasma cells infiltrated the adventitia and media at severely affected areas. These changes were limited to the aortic sinus, and other ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043353 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:40:02 +0100 2043353 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043352&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000813%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Forensic entomology is the study of insects associated with human corpses. The most common and widely accepted application of entomological evidence in criminal investigations is to determine the post-mortem interval (PMI), i.e. the time from death to discovery of the corpse, and other circumstances of the crime scene. The insects that first colonize a human corpse usually belong to the families Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae and Muscidae, and often are very important elements in forensic investigation.The aim of this study was to highlight the importance of evaluating forensic evidence on a regional and urban scale. To assess the climatic, geographical and environmental influences on carrion-breeding fauna, we present details of a case in Calabria (southern Italy) in February 2007... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043352 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:39:50 +0100 2043352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043351&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000795%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A man in his sixties, who developed CPA at home, was transferred to the emergency center. Since CT images revealed a tube-shaped foreign body in the pulmonary artery, pulmonary embolism was initially suspected; however, this did not lead to a definite diagnosis. Autopsy revealed that the foreign body in the cadaver was a fragment of a V-A shunt catheter implanted about 30 years previously for the treatment of hydrocephalus. Although fibrous adhesion of a part of the catheter to the pulmonary artery wall was seen, suggesting that a fracture of the catheter had occurred a long time before, it was not known when the fracture had occurred. Since no pulmonary arterial obstruction secondary to the catheter or new thrombi, which had been initially suspected, were observed, the cause of ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043351 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:39:30 +0100 2043351 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043350&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001065%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The archived head-space chromatograms of ethanol determinations in autopsy blood in the years 1996–2003 were analysed. One hundred and two cases with elevated acetone level >250mmol/l were selected in which the biochemical profiles of volatile alcohols (methanol, isopropanol and n-propanol) were determined after “post-hoc” calibration of the constant internal standard. Based on the files obtained from the Prosecutor’s Office, the circumstances of death and those preceding death (alcoholism, prolonged or single consumption of alcohol, intoxications with other substances, hypothermia, undernourishment, diabetes) were analysed and the most probable cause of endogenous or exogenous ketonaemia were determined.All cases of unexplained deaths in alcoholics with the ethanol conce... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043350 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:39:05 +0100 2043350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043349&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001004%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Severe congestion with petechiae and/or small hemorrhages over a wide area consisting of the subcutaneous and mucous level of the head and neck is observed in most cases of strangulation and positional asphyxial death. Congestion present above the strangulation mark is accepted as a vital reaction. Although the congestion results from a disturbance of cervical venous flow, only a few reports concerning a relationship between venous flow and posture were found in the literature. We assessed the physiological situation of cervical venous return and movement of the craniocervical venous valve for many types of valve with respect to posture using color-duplex ultrasound sonography (US).We measured the Doppler wave of cervical veins consisting of internal jugular vein (IJV), external ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043349 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:38:33 +0100 2043349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043348&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000825%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Modern cross-sectional imaging techniques are being increasingly implemented in forensic pathology.In order to assess the practicability of such a method, namely post-mortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in cases of fatal cut and stab injuries, 12 corpses underwent such an examination prior to forensic autopsy.The questions regarding detection of foreign bodies, wound channels, skeletal and organ injuries, as well as the cause of death were addressed at MSCT and autopsy. The results of the two techniques revealed that post-mortem MSCT a useful tool in the assessment of such injuries. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043348 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:38:19 +0100 2043348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043347&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800076X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine whether the detection of pulmonary fat embolization is valid as a significant indicator of heat exposure in forensic autopsies. In 54 cases where there was no evidence of fracture, burn or pancreatitis, 25 cases (46.3%) showed pulmonary fat embolization, the degree of which was pathohistologically classified as slight in all cases. Among the 25 cases where the pulmonary fat embolization was detected, the individual had died under a high ambient temperature in 14 cases (56%). Based on logistic regression analysis, pulmonary fat embolization was found to be associated with a high ambient temperature, but not associated with coronary arteriosclerosis, fatty infiltration in the liver, severe infectious diseases, intracranial hemorrhage or the dete... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043347 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:37:57 +0100 2043347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2043346&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001478%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2043346 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:37:54 +0100 2043346 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800717&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001260%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800717 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:57 +0100 1800717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800716&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001259%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800716 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:57 +0100 1800716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800715&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001247%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800715 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:57 +0100 1800715 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800714&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000758%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes On 2006, a new book, “Forensic Neuropathology and Associated Neurology”, providing up-to-date knowledge on neuropathology to forensic pathologists as well as general pathologists including neuropathologists, neurologists and neuroscientists, has been published. The book is composed of 31 chapters with several excellent color figures and very informative tables. The book covers not only the morphology of whole the forensic neuropathology, but also the basic principles, especially the cytological variations, of general neuropathology, and selected diseases of clinical neuropathology. The book is well understandable written and integrates the most recent literature. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800714 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:57 +0100 1800714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800713&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000771%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The allele frequency distribution of 15 autosomal STR loci was determined using AmpFlSTR® IdentifilerTM kit in three endogamous caste populations namely, Rajbanshi, Paliya and Dhimal from northern regions of West Bengal, India. The study includes 13 CODIS STR core markers, i.e., D8S1179, D3S1358, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, THO1, D13S317, D16S539, D5S818, FGA and two other loci D19S433 and D2S1338. All the loci followed Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, except loci D8S1179, vWA and FGA in Rajbanshi population, D13S317 in Paliya population and D16S539 and TPOX in Dhimal population. The allele 12 in CSF1PO in Rajbanshi population and allele nine in THO1 in Paliya as well as in Dhimal population were found to be most frequent. All the 15 STR loci studied were found to be... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800713 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:57 +0100 1800713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800712&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000746%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 15 STR loci included in AmpFℓSTR® Identifiler® kit were ascertained in a sample population of 502 unrelated Kuwaiti individuals. Allele frequencies were compared with 6 Caucasian populations using an exact test. This showed that the Kuwaiti population was very similar to the neighboring Iraqi and Saudi populations. As the geographical distance between the populations increased, as expected, more differences were observed. Relevant forensic parameters were also determined. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800712 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:56 +0100 1800712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800711&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000552%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Nine Y-STR (DYS19, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS446, DYS447, DYS448, DYS456 and DYS458) were analyzed in a male sample of 285 unrelated individuals from Guadalajara, Jalisco, México. The haplotype diversity (0.996) and discrimination capacity (0.986) were calculated. A family study of around 200 father/son pairs and among 1828 meiosis showed five mutational events. All mutations were single step. The overall mutation rate estimated across the nine Y-STRs was 2.7×10−3 (95% CI 1.2–6.4×10−3)/locus/meiosis. The results indicate that these nine loci are useful Y-linked markers for forensic applications. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800711 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:56 +0100 1800711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800710&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000539%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: We analyzed 11 Y-STR loci (DYS446, DYS447, DYS449, DYS450, DYS459a/b, DYS463 and DYS464a/b/c/d) in a total of 324 Japanese males from western and southern Japan. Gene diversity ranged from 0.958 at DYS464 in western Japan to 0.259 at DYS450 in southern Japan. A total of 272 different haplotypes were observed, of which 240 were found in single individuals. The overall haplotype diversity and discrimination capacity was 0.9982 and 0.8395, respectively. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800710 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:56 +0100 1800710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800709&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000783%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The victim (59-year-old male) used a long hemp rope tied between his neck and a cherry tree while attempting to drive his car away, resulting in complete decapitation. At autopsy, the decapitation wound of the head and the torso corresponded perfectly; a clear-cut severance plane was found at the bottom of the skull. In contrast to suicidal decapitation by hanging and traumatic railway injury, autopsy findings for vehicle-assisted ligature strangulation are rarely reported. A review of the literature concerning suicidal vehicle-assisted ligature strangulation suggested a striking young or adult male predominance, and the wound margins were usually clear-cut with a sharply-demarcated encircling abrasion zone. The present case presented some notable autopsy findings involving wound... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800709 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:53 +0100 1800709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800708&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000576%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An autopsy case of fatal hyperthermia in a state of excited delirium is reported. On a hot summer night a 39-year-old man was suspected of being a rapist, and police officers and several men attempted to arrest him. He vigorously resisted, but after a 20-min struggle he was ultimately forced into a prone position on the ground with his arms and legs restrained by police officers. He collapsed shortly after being arrested and was taken to a hospital, but was pronounced dead on arrival. His rectal temperature measured 2.5h after death was 40°C. At autopsy the body showed a severer degree of postmortem change than after death at a normal body temperature and a similar postmortem interval. Autopsy revealed abrasions and subcutaneous hemorrhages of the head, face, arms, and legs. The... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800708 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:53 +0100 1800708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800707&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000564%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: An old man was found dead in a rice paddy with his face down in the water. His right forearm and hand were severely injured and the shapes of injuries were unusual. It was initially suspected that the injuries had been caused by a cultivator placed at the site. However, they proved to be postmortem injuries because vital reactions were not observed. The skin was widely torn away. Some edges of the injuries looked like a bite mark and other parts looked like scratches. There were many parallel injuries on the right forearm and hand and footmark-like injuries on the right hand. They were probably caused by wild animals. Judging from the sizes and shapes of the footprint, bite marks and scratches, we estimated that the animal which caused the injuries was weasels. (Source: Legal Med... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800707 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:52 +0100 1800707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800706&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000588%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In a series of 93 unselected forensic autopsies of adults the following volumes were measured: skull volume by filling a sac of synthetic material with water, placed intracranially, after removal of the brain and brain volume by its water displacement. Objective was to demonstrate if generally is there a relation between reduced difference of skull volume minus cerebral volume (“reserve volume”=RV, predominantly identical with cerebrospinal fluid compartment) and the presence of pressure marks (grooves) on the basis of temporal lobes (uncal grooves) and cerebellum (cerebellar cone). These alterations in post-mortem examination were usually regarded as signs of increased intracranial pressure during life. The obtained data were presented in diagrams.Most of the intracranial vo... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800706 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:52 +0100 1800706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800705&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000540%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Modern cross-sectional imaging techniques are being increasingly implemented in forensic pathology. These methods may serve as an adjuvant to classic forensic autopsies or even replace them altogether in the future.In order to assess the practicability of such a method, namely post-mortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in fatal gunshot injuries, 22 corpses underwent such an examination prior to forensic autopsy. The cardinal questions of the location of entrance and exit wounds, the detection of bullets and bullet fragments in the body, the bullet course, inflicted injuries and cause of death were addressed at MSCT and autopsy. The results of the two techniques revealed that post-mortem MSCT can answer these questions reliably and is therefore a useful tool in the assessme... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800705 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:52 +0100 1800705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1800704&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308001119%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1800704 Wed, 17 Sep 2008 19:27:52 +0100 1800704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766687&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000321%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Mitochondrial DNA sequences of the hypervariable regions HV1 and HV2 were determined for 1204 unrelated Japanese individuals. A total of 741 different mtDNA haplotypes were found, 157 of which were seen in multiple individuals. Twenty-seven of these individuals showed point heteroplasmy. The most frequent haplotype (16223T-16362C-73G-263G-315.1C) was found in 31 individuals and the second most frequent haplotypes (16129A-16223T- 16362C-73G-152C-263G-309.1C-315.1C) was found in 24 individuals. The haplotypes diversity and random match probability were calculated to be 0.9969 and 0.0040, respectively. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766687 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766686&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000254%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Allele frequencies for 15 STR autosomal loci (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, VWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818 and FGA) were obtained from a sample of 198 unrelated individuals from Honduras, Central America. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766686 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766686 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766685&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000515%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A four-month-old female with no previous medical history suddenly collapsed and failed to recover despite 2h of resuscitation. An autopsy showed marked cardiomegaly (88g) with prominent dilatation of the left ventricle and a whitish opacity on the endocardial surface. The ductus arteriosus was patent, but both orifices were severely stenosed. Microscopically, the endocardium showed pronounced thickening with laminar deposition of elastic and collagen fibers. Additionally, there was a mixture of myocardial fibers with a marked “wavy” appearance and a scattering of mild interstitial lymphocytic infiltration. We believe that endocardial thickening in this infant met the diagnostic criteria for endocardial fibroelastosis (EFE). Although it is controversial whether primary EFE is ... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766685 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766684&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000333%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A man in his thirties was found dead in his room. The autopsy findings were as follows: multiple bruises and subdermal edema, small sized stab wounds, a number of skin scars, new and old rib fractures, mild liver contusion, and marked myositis ossificans traumatica (MOT) at both thighs. In particular, the MOT was closely associated with repetitive physical assault and battery. The deceased did not have any lethal injuries of internal organs or great vessels, and the cause of death was diagnosed as traumatic hypovolemic shock. The deceased seemed to have accepted as fate his “specific situation” in which he would be subjected to continued physical violence from his cohabiter, a woman in her thirties. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766684 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766684 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766683&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800031X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery or its branches is rare. We herein present a case of a ruptured aneurysm of the jejunal artery, a branch of the superior mesenteric artery, and we also review 19 cases of jejunal artery aneurysm reported in the English literature. A 66-year-old male who had received a fist blow to the face presented in the emergency ward of his local hospital. His physical examination was unremarkable and he went back home after treatment of his facial wound. Two hours later he again visited the hospital, this time for severe abdominal pain, and he was hospitalized for suspicion of an intraperitoneal hemorrhage. Selective arteriography of the superior mesenteric artery revealed a ruptured aneurysm in the first branch of the jejunal artery. An emergency l... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766683 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766683 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766682&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000266%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: A motor scooter carrying two 15-year-old boys collided with the back of an open, parked truck. The tailgate of the truck was down and in a horizontal position. At the autopsy of the driver, horizontal tramline bruises were found on the anterior chest, but the thoracic cage was intact. There was a transverse tear of the ascending aorta with adventitial hematoma, but significant bleeding was not found in the pericardial sac or the thoracic cavities. Therefore, it was obvious that cardiovascular collapse occurred immediately after the accident. Neither injuries nor diseases that would cause the instantaneous death were found on examination of the whole body. We determined that the driver died of commotio cordis due to blunt force to the anterior chest. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766682 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766682 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766681&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000308%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Altered expression of endothelial markers – especially adhesion molecules – is diagnostically helpful for diagnosis of ante mortal undiagnosed sepsis. Up to now it is unclear whether (1) expression of Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and/or VE-cadherin (VEC) plays a comparable role, (2) whether expression intensity correlates with post mortem interval. Fifty-nine lung specimens (20 lung specimens with regular morphology from tumour lobectomies, 39 from patients who died of septic ARDS due to microbiologically proven Gram-negative sepsis) were stained with an antibody against ACE (1:80) resp. VEC (1:100).All specimens showed vessel type specific expression patterns for ACE and VEC which was dramatically reduced in sepsis. ACE staining intensity did not correlate with time b... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766681 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766681 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766680&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000527%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: The present study was conducted to determine the age of fusion of greater cornua with the body of hyoid bone. Age of fusion of hyoid bone can help in determining the age of an individual, especially of unknown dead bodies where only skeletal remains are available. A victim of compression of neck will more likely have fracture of hyoid bone if his hyoid bone is fused. Indian authors have reported that the fusion of hyoid bone occurs after 40 years of age. Studies done by foreign workers observed that hyoid bone fused at an earlier age (30–40 years).A total of 170 excised hyoid bones from dead bodies belonging to the age group of 20–65 years were studied. Fusion occurred earlier in females as compared to males by about 5 years. The mean age of unilateral and bilateral fusion in... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766680 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766679&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000291%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this study, four Y-SNPs (M122, P31, M174 and M216) were analyzed in 207 Japanese males (Gunma, Fukui, Kagoshima and Tokushima Prefecture). Eleven Y-STRs, including DYS19, DYS389I/II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS437, DYS438, DYS389, DYS385 and YCAII were also investigated in each prefecture. As a new technique, we used Cycleave PCR method with real-time PCR, which allows detection of Y-SNPs by an easier and faster method. Regarding Y-SNPs, each region in Japan could be almost classified based on two types, the D and O type. We found that the O type was remarkably higher in Kagoshima Prefecture than in other areas. Moreover, the D type was more prevalent than the O type in Gunma Prefecture, which is geographically located at the center of Japan. These findings of geographical diffe... Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766679 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766679 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766678&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000278%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study investigated if one could use a correlation between telomere length and age, to predict the age of an individual from their DNA. Telomere length, in buccal cells, of 167 individuals aged between 1 and 96 years old was measured using real-time quantitative PCR. Telomere length decreased with age (r=−0.185, P (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766678 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766678 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766677&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS134462230800028X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: Identification of chronic excessive alcohol consumption in living and deceased individuals is a fundamental task in forensic pathology. Reliable methods for post-mortem diagnosis of chronic alcohol abuse are required because morphological findings are unspecific and ante-mortem data are often unreliable. In clinical practice, several biochemical markers indirectly demonstrating chronic alcohol abuse are employed, but thus far these methods have not been used in routine post-mortem investigations. We reviewed publications in which these markers have been applied to autopsy material. Based on this review, some of these biochemical parameters are useful in post-mortem diagnostics, although further systematic research is required. (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766677 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766677 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1766676&cid=s_37939_142_f&fid=37939&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legalmedicinejournal.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS1344622308000850%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes (Source: Legal Medicine) Legal Medicine journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1766676 Mon, 01 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1766676