MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'forensics'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:08:23 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4829333&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F05%2Fbest-post-of-january-2011-retinal.html The next in our "Best of the Month Series" is from January 13, 2011: The illustrious Peter Cummings, MD recently contributed an excellent post to the Cambridge University Press medical blog on the topic inflicted pediatric head trauma.  In particular, Dr. Cummings discusses the presence of retinal hemorrhage as evidence for pediatric head trauma. Whether or not the trauma had been intentionally inflicted depends, of course, on the history provided by witnesses and law enforcement as there are no pathognomonic findings. But, as Dr. Cummings says in his post: "I treat every pediatric case as though it is a homicide until I can prove to myself that it is not."Retinal fold with hemorrhageGiven the near ubiquity of artefactual retinal folds in extracted eye specimens, I asked Dr. Cummings ... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4829333 Tue, 17 May 2011 01:13:00 +0100 4829333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709237&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36672&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sciencebase.com%2Fscience-blog%2Frecent-science-news-roundup.html Optical catapulting for explosive fingerprint detection – Optical catapulting-laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy has been used to successfully detect residues of common explosives in human fingerprints, according to researchers from Egypt and Spain. Unsettling enzymes – Millisecond oscillations can massively impact how an enzyme functions, a new NMR spectroscopic study in the US reveals. The study suggests that finding ways to control such movements, without altering the overall structure of an enzyme might be useful in disabling an enzyme in disease. Proof of principle was demonstrated with an enzyme from Escherichia coli. Melanoma lead – Cheminformatics has helped researchers home in on a single compound that could lead to a new approach to treating malignant melanoma... Sciencebase Science Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709237 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 09:00:34 +0100 4709237 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4450528&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F02%2Fthree-english-neuropatholologists.html Dr. Waney SquierThree London neuropathologists who have called into question the science behind shaken baby syndrome are claiming they have been the victims of a sustained smear campaign perpetrated by the London Metropolitan Police. The BBC reports on the charges here. Drs, Waney Squier, Irene Scheimberg, and Marta Cohen -- who have all been experts witness defending caregivers under prosecution for causing a baby's death -- are accusing the London police and others of trying to undermine their professional credibility. (Source: neuropathology blog) neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4450528 Wed, 09 Feb 2011 02:17:00 +0100 4450528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4343349&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2011%2F01%2Fretinal-changes-in-inflicted-pediatric.html Retinal fold with associated hemorrhageThe illustrious Peter Cummings, MD recently contributed an excellent post to the Cambridge University Press medical blog on the topic inflicted pediatric head trauma.  In particular, Dr. Cummings discusses the presence of retinal hemorrhage and retinal hemorrhage as evidence for pediatric head trauma. Whether or not the trauma had been intentionally inflicted depends, of course, on the history provided by witnesses and law enforcement.as there are no pathognomonic findings. But, as Dr. Cummings says in his post: "I treat every pediatric case as though it is a homicide until I can prove to myself that it is not."Given the near ubiquity of artefactual retinal folds in extracted eye specimens, I asked Dr. Cummings whether there is a role for postmor... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4343349 Thu, 13 Jan 2011 21:48:00 +0100 4343349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2934965&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F10%2Fannouncing-forensic-neuropathology.html Today I feature a guest post from Dr. Peter Cummings (pictured), an emerging power player in the field of forensic neuropathology. Dr. Cummings appeared on this blog in July in connection to a People Magazine article about his investigation of a 1980 murder case. Today Dr. Cummings reappears as he attempts to harness the power of Web Pathology 2.0 to create a network among those who practice the tiny-but-important sub-sub-specialty of forensic neuropathology. Take it, Pete: " The field of forensic neuropathology has expanded exponentially over the past few years and has seen the publication several new text books and the development of a one-year fellowship position in some medical examiner offices. With this growth the practicing neuropathologist who handles forensic brains needs to keep... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2934965 Tue, 27 Oct 2009 18:58:00 +0100 2934965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2871924&cid=t_100660_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F9MLSjyfo_A4%2F It all started when I read about the mystery of the “Unknown Child” who drowned in the Titanic. In 1912, a small child, wearing a petticoat, frock, socks and leather shoes, was found among the wreckage of the Titanic and buried in Nova Scotia. The boy became known as The Unknown Child, and a symbol for all 53 children who died. Nothing was left in the grave of the child except three little teeth, and clues that lead to two possible identities: 13-month old Eino Panula of Finland, and 19-month old Sidney Goodwin of England. So the U.S. U.S. Armed Forces DNA Identification Lab turned to someone who was great at finding people – DNA Detective Colleen Fitzpatrick. Fitzpatrick is a nuclear physicist who gave up her day job to become a forensic genealogist, one finds people – dead or a... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2871924 Wed, 07 Oct 2009 03:57:41 +0100 2871924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2649309&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F07%2Fneuropathologist-investigating-murder.html Neuropathologists continue to show up in the national news media! After reporting recently about Dr. John E. Donahue's appearance in The New York Post discussing the disposition of Michael Jackson's brain, I was informed that Dr. Peter Cummings (pictured), neuropathologist for the Massachusetts Medical Examiner's office, was featured in a People Magazine article in connection to a murder case in Maine. Entitled "A Cold Case Comes To Life", the article discusses Cummings' role in the re-investigation of the beating death of 16-year-old Joyce McLain in East Millinocket, Maine in August of 1980. Cummings was an 8-year-old boy living in the area at the time of the murder, and resolved back then that he would solve the case. Nearly thirty years later, Cummings was instrumental in getting Joyce ... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2649309 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 02:10:00 +0100 2649309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2576794&cid=t_100660_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FpqcH3R1sUrw%2F DNA testing on the deceased is hard enough, but on 3,000 year-old mummies?! Burial mask of mummy King Tutankhamun. Image: Newscom But that’s exactly what Egypt hopes to do with its most famous mummy King Tutankhamun and the two fetuses found in his tomb. After ten years of refusal, Egypt’s chief of antiquities Zahi Hawass finally allowed DNA tests to discover the lineage of King Tut. King Tut only lived for 19 years in ancient Egypt and reigned for nine years, but he became famous for the mysteries surrounding his life and abrupt death. His discovery in 1922 was a magnificent surprise. His secret tomb remained untouched by thieves, and with him were buried more treasures than any royal tomb ever found. The identity of his parents were never known. He supposedly married the daughter of ... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2576794 Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:43:00 +0100 2576794 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2512407&cid=t_100660_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2FlYXr-AGISKo%2F Using DNA to identify someone’s identity is no longer a new science. DNA forensics, as the science is called, is extensively being used to establish paternity and family relationships, potential suspects and/or victims, and to exonerate persons accused of crimes. DNA fingerprints were used to identify the victims of September 11 and Hurricane Katrina. Today’s news at The National Post shares another example of the use of DNA testing – identifying soldiers of the past world wars at the place where they were killed. According to the report, new constructions in Western Europe are unearthing the skeletal remains of troops killed during the two world wars, but their identities are still a mystery. So the Canadian National Defense Department set up a team of experts to try to identify the... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2512407 Fri, 19 Jun 2009 03:08:00 +0100 2512407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523757&cid=t_100660_149_f&fid=35784&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheChemBlog%2F%7E3%2Ft4nLa7Xutu8%2F As a function of my new post-doc, I found myself in the need of a refillable fountain pen, which could contain organic solvents. It also needed to be refillable by a plunger or cantilever and, once I was done with the science, I wouldn’t mind converting it to a nice pen for my own use.  (You may be wondering, wtf kind of chemistry are you doing where you’d be using a f.ing FOUNTAIN PEN?  To wit:  I am doing awesome chemistry.) In any regard, I have (as most scientist do) an inexplicable compulsion (it has nothing to do with masturbation, just FYI… I know that’s a common one.)  My compulsion happens to be the exclusive use gel pens. I thus figured, if I’m going to get a refillable fountain pen, I might as well inquire into the availability of that gel ink ... The Chem Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523757 Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:40:57 +0100 2523757 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2523489&cid=t_100660_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FPzvIEltioU0%2Fyoung-brains.html [Image credit: killermonkeys] Adolescent Brain Development A forensic examiner talks about decision making and developing brains in youth, for an audience of youth advocates. See also: Brain Science as a Means of Understanding Delinquency and Substance Abuse in Youth,  The Teen Brain, and Teen Brain, an award-winning documentary on neuroethics and the juvenile justice system. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2523489 Sun, 14 Jun 2009 03:31:20 +0100 2523489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2473508&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fdid-you-know-your-armpits-are-like.html A link to a news story detailing the diversity of bacterial populations on the skin. (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2473508 Thu, 11 Jun 2009 09:48:00 +0100 2473508 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2469547&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F06%2Fliving-with-hiv-and-tb.html (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2469547 Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:12:00 +0100 2469547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349812&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Ffeatured-neuropathologist-jan-e-leetsma.html Today I profile Dr. Jan Leestma, a prominent forensic neuropathologist. After a short biographical sketch, Dr. Leestma answers a few of my questions:Born in 1938, Jan Leestma attended school in Holland before graduating from the University of Michigan School of Medicine in 1964. His anatomic pathology training was at University of Colorado Medical Center; and his neuropathology training was completed at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. After military service at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, DC, Leestma joined the faculty at Northwestern University Medical Center in Chicago. In 1985 he was at the University of Chicago for a couple of years, and then joined the Chicago Institute of Neurosurgery and Neuroresearch at Columbus Hospital in Chicago unt... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349812 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 16:22:00 +0100 2349812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349814&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Ffather-convicted-in-infant-sons-death.html Because it has involved opposing neuropathologists (including Dr. Mark Cohen, pictured during his testimony for the defense), Neuropathology Blog has been following the Colorado court case involving the death of 11-week-old Jason Midyette. Jason's 29-year-old father, Alex, was convicted last week of abusing his son. Dr. Cohen claimed that the multiple broken bones suffered by the infant were related to a condition known as methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency, an autosomal recessive disorder of folate metabolism. Despite defense testimony by both Cohen and forensic pathologist Dr. Jonathan Arden, the jury could not be convinced that Alex had nothing to do with his son's death. The neuropathologist hired by the prosecution was Dr. Robert Ross Reichard of the University of New Mexi... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349814 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 17:56:00 +0100 2349814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349818&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fneuropathologist-provides-alternate.html Last week I posted that neuropathologist Mark Cohen testified for the defense in a high-profile child death case where a father is accused of causing the death of his son. The boy's mother is already serving time for her role in the child's death. Cohen, on faculty at Case Western in Cleveland, testified for the defense in the state of Colorado's case against Alex Midyette, whose son was found to have multiple broken bones at the time of his death. The local news channel reports that Mr. Midyette (pictured entering the courtroom with his lawyers) declined to testify in his trial today. Dr. Cohen stated that the 11-week-old infant suffered from methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase deficiency, an autosomal recessive disorder of folate metabolism causing elevated plasma homocysteine levels. Pa... neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349818 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 03:28:00 +0100 2349818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2349819&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=38409&url=http%3A%2F%2Fneuropathologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2009%2F02%2Fneuropathologist-is-star-witness-in.html Dr. Mark Cohen (pictured), a well-known neuropathologist and friend who is frequently featured on this blog, made the news recently as a defense witness in a high-profile child abuse case going on in Colorado. This link will bring you to a report on the case by the local CBS television affiliate. The report states that "[t]he defense called its star witness to the stand Wednesday morning. Mark Cohen, a high profile neuropathologist, says Jason died from a rare condition called 'metabolic disease,' and not from child abuse." You can see a video of Dr. Cohen's testimony on the site as well. (Source: neuropathology blog) neuropathology blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2349819 Fri, 06 Feb 2009 18:17:00 +0100 2349819 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985324&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fbody-farm.html (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985324 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 14:40:00 +0100 1985324 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985326&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F11%2Fneutrophil-phagocytosis.html (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985326 Sun, 23 Nov 2008 14:23:00 +0100 1985326 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1429391&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F05%2Fimmune-sysytem-game.html Have a go at this game. let me know what you think (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1429391 Thu, 08 May 2008 10:34:00 +0100 1429391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1305869&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2F15-iii-08.html "Caesar, Caesar, beware the Ides of March."Yep, he certainly should have beworn--bite me--because Big Julie got stabbed 23 times that day in the rotunda. It was one of the first recorded forenisc examinations, because the physician, Antistius examined his body and concluded that only one stab, the one in the back was the fatal one.I think it's a good day to go and have an Orange Julius.Actually, no. Didja follow that link? Those look foul. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1305869 Sat, 15 Mar 2008 22:07:00 +0100 1305869 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1296196&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Fhiv.html Check out the following links for more information on HIVThe biology of HIV from the BBC A video about HIV replication. (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1296196 Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:12:00 +0100 1296196 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1296211&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Fhiv-infection.html This is a clear animation of how HIV enters a cell and how the virus replicates within a cell. It is a bit complicated in places but i like the graphics. (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1296211 Sun, 09 Mar 2008 16:34:00 +0100 1296211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1296213&cid=t_100660_107_f&fid=36905&url=http%3A%2F%2Fjemmasbiologyblog.blogspot.com%2F2008%2F03%2Fimmune-response.html (Source: Jemma's Biology Blog) Jemma's Biology Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1296213 Sun, 09 Mar 2008 16:17:00 +0100 1296213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1288420&cid=t_100660_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F247923715%2F   Galileo’s tomb  Over 360 years ago Galileo died living as a recluse in Italy, a convicted heretic.  His crime - he fell foul of the religious authorities of the day by arguing that the Earth revolved around the sun and not vice versa.  His theory was subsequently found to be perfectly true. Italian researchers, led by Prof Paulo Galluzzi, want to exhume his body from the city’s Basilica of the Holy Cross, for DNA tests to find the cause of the blindness that afflicted him. They also want to confirm, through DNA profiling, whether the body that shares his grave is that of Galileo’s beloved daughter, Sister Marie Celeste. The rector of the basilica is having none of it - describing the plan as disrespectful.  The debate continues. Elaine Warburton  www.geneti... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1288420 Sat, 08 Mar 2008 14:46:55 +0100 1288420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1146464&cid=t_100660_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F215067234%2F Prosecutors rested their case in the trial of Karen McCarron on Thursday, January 10th, after forensic pathologist Violette Hnilica testified, the Times Online reports. Hnilica performed the autopsy on the body of Katherine McCarron, who Karen McCarron is charged with killing.  On May 13, 2006, Karen McCarron, a former pathologist, suffocated her three-year-old daughter by wrapping a plastic bag around the child’s head as she played with toys. On May 15, 2006, she confessed to police that “”Maybe I could fix her this way, and in heaven she would be complete.’” McCarron’s videotaped confession was also played for the jury. According to today’s Peoria Journal-Star, McCarron had had thoughts of killing her daughter in the previous year, but had &... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1146464 Fri, 11 Jan 2008 16:25:34 +0100 1146464 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1121964&cid=t_100660_131_f&fid=34989&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FGeneticsHealth%2F%7E3%2F208385780%2F               DNA profiling There has been a recent case in Northern Ireland whereby an Omagh bombing suspect was cleared of all murder charges as the integrity of the forensic test which made up the bulk of the prosecution case was called into question.  The test in question is Low Copy Number DNA profiling or LCN DNA profiling.   LCN testing allows genetic profiles of offenders to be created from very small tissue samples that have only been detectable with new techniques available since 1999. These can be as tiny as a millionth the size of a grain of salt which can amount to as little as a few cells of skin or sweat left in a fingerprint. The Forensic Science Service (FSS) in the UK say they have used LCN DNA about 21,000 times and generated profiles from items su... Genetics and Health blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1121964 Sun, 30 Dec 2007 08:33:30 +0100 1121964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1117918&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F12%2Fthat-reminds-me.html Cranky mentioned Mormon underwear, aka "garments" or "garmies". This was the second time Mormon underwear came up in a week, (the first time was when the Mormon Tabernacle Choir was on T.V.) Short description, they're the underwear analogue of the yarmeluke, for members of the LDS.I first became aware of them when a man who was wearing Mormon undergarments was taken to morgue after having been run over by a bus. They came to light as the patient was undressed for autopsy. They caused some comment, as no one in the room knew what they were, but a consult was obtained.This isn't the first time that folks have been confused by clothing at autopsy. The presence of (women's) underwear on practitioners of autoerotic asphyxia (usually males) are well known to anyone with experience in the field, ... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1117918 Wed, 26 Dec 2007 22:58:00 +0100 1117918 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1090744&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F12%2Foh-ffs.html My University has a list of laboratory chemicals that we need to inventory for the Department of Homeland Security. This list goes from Aluminum (powdered) to VX (nerve gas) I don't have a laboratory, let alone any of these chemicals, my research is conducted in an off site morgue or on my computer. But, if I don't respond, I'm in trouble. I just sent back an e-mail saying I don' t have a lab. This is like those conflict of interest forms we get every year.We're not going to mention the fire axe. and hangman's noose. Neither of them will blow up, however, so they're safe. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1090744 Wed, 12 Dec 2007 23:41:00 +0100 1090744 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1060250&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fbody-modification.html I'm giving a Grand Rounds in Psychiatry to-morrow on the forensic aspects of body modification. This draws in my interest in anthropology (I worked at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History for some time) and forensics, particularly with determination of identity. I do wonder about how various marks are meaningful to the markee.Then, I see this, and just wonder. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1060250 Thu, 29 Nov 2007 21:17:00 +0100 1060250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1034711&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fterminal-ballistic-laboratory.html I took the class to the range. One of the more unusual lab fees. It's interesting trying to get this past the Comptroller's office.Thom tried to make a smiley face with the .22The .357 does make nice flames. (And Thom learned not to hold on to the cylinder when firing)Andrea did like the shotgunThe .45 is impressive.700 rounds of .22, 100 rounds of .357, 100 rounds of .45, 50 12 ga. shells. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1034711 Sun, 18 Nov 2007 04:01:00 +0100 1034711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1012479&cid=t_100660_149_f&fid=35785&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2FMoleculeOfTheDay%2F%7E3%2F181383465%2F14butanediol_date_rape_drug_or.php There are a lot of stories bouncing around about a toy in Australia, Bindeez, which are apparently little beads that adhere to one another when you wet them. There are a ton of news sources getting very confused, but Reuters seems to have gotten it: they are contaminated with 1,4-butanediol, which your body metabolizes into GHB (a banned so-called "date rape drug.") Read the rest of this post... | Read the comments on this post... (Source: Molecule of the Day) Molecule of the Day blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1012479 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:56:18 +0100 1012479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1012605&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Fchild-abuse.html Two lectures on child abuse today and Friday. I have some very interesting case material that made the class go quiet for fifty minutes. These are the difficult ones. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1012605 Wed, 07 Nov 2007 19:56:00 +0100 1012605 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1007814&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F11%2Felection-day.html When I worked at Large Coroner's Office, we got a half day on election day, like all the other county employees, to go vote. I'm fortunate, in that I live across the street from my polling place. I can go vote in 30 seconds, most of my time is spent waiting on line or suppressing the urge to kick exit pollsters.Every year, I regret there is no "None of the Above" option on the voting machines (or, as my Brooklyn friend put it, "F*** alla youse"). However, I find plenty of people I want to vote against. I mean, really, I live in a state where rare coins and Beanie Babies were considered good places to put the public money. Once, at Large Coroner's Office, the county was in a budget crunch for some idiocy. (I think it was the coins) we were all asked to do whatever we could to conserve mone... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1007814 Tue, 06 Nov 2007 15:24:00 +0100 1007814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=993497&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fforensic-halloween.html The dead don't bother me. They're much more well behaved than the living. They just stay in one place, cool off, and fall apart. Living people are untidy. Well, so is an advanced decomp, but in a different, quieter way.One Hallowe'en, a policeman asked if it was my favourite holiday. Well, no (I'm rather partial to Thanksgiving). But that's beside the point. It was a Monday, and we were standing outside a one-story house in a post-war development. Little thing, long, narrow lot, and a couple of pickup trucks with animal cages on the back. The owner of the house raised Golden retrievers, among other things. He was a gunsmith, and a radio ham, and worked nearby.Upon entry to the house, it was obvious that this man was a bachelor. It was even more obvious that a woman had not been in the hous... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=993497 Wed, 31 Oct 2007 12:31:00 +0100 993497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=993498&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fin-zone.html After teaching for a number of years, one acquires some skills. I've got the talking for 50 minutes thing down pat. I'm good at telling people why they should be interested in this stuff. I'm great at audience eye contact.Heck any presentation that does not have me being grilled by a hostile attorney is great.I did a lot of trials with my friend R, who is now an AUSA. We got to be quite a pair, and we'd done enough together and knew each other's styles well enough that we made quite a team. Eventually, he could question me and I could respond without either of us ever needing notes. Even in a capital case. We were that in tune. It was fun.Today, I went out to small liberal arts college. I'd written, powerpointed, and prepared a presentation on the interview process for professional school.... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=993498 Wed, 31 Oct 2007 03:57:00 +0100 993498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=982811&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fblog-talk-radio_26.html I went on Mark's Blog Talk Radio last night (or very early this morning) I don't know about anyone else, but I enjoyed myself. Gee, it was me talking for an hour. And it was nice to hear from other folks whose blogs I read.You can hear it, if you care, here: (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=982811 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:22:00 +0100 982811 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=982812&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fodd-and-creepy.html The Shocking Autopsy Game, from Stupid.com. Evidently designed by a Skinnerian psychologist, if your hand bobbles you get an electric shock as well as a buzzer. It's not as disturbing as the shaken-baby t-shirt, but this is just wrong. (Source: Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files) Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=982812 Fri, 26 Oct 2007 20:19:00 +0100 982812 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=948761&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fbusmans-honeymoon.html The other day the museums of University Circle had open houses, behind-the-scenes tours for educators. I went from the Natural History Museum to the Art Museum to the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Playhouse. Frankly, I could have stayed all day at the Natural History Museum, but since I used to work there, it was good to see the other stuff. It's a pity that the Museum of Art is going to be off limits for another couple of years. There's a lot of overlap between my research in modification, and ethnology (at CMNH) or art (at CMA). All depends on how you look at it. It's good for me to include other perspectives.I like to look behind the curtain. Whenever I get the chance, I find the morgue in a new city. Glasgow has a nice art deco stone building. (It was closed). When I was in Amster... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=948761 Sun, 07 Oct 2007 17:26:00 +0100 948761 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=948765&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fin-which-i-begin-to-consider-that-i.html Today's lecture was about shotgun wounds. Good class, lots of participation, the studentlets were reluctant to leave. I realized, though, we went down many side paths today. One of the perks of this job is the number of interesting stories. This day was particularly fertile. We went over why holding the shotgun away from your shoulder to minimize recoil is a really bad idea (not me, a co-worker), what most shotguns in the urban environment are designed to kill (200# bipeds and Buicks), and the finer points of money laundering. One of the difficult parts of this business is you have to learn to think like a criminal. In the military, this is called "Thinking Red" (OPFOR is the red team) Forensic people learn how criminals think. Over at Miskatonic Labs, Z. spends his time figuring how to br... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=948765 Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:58:00 +0100 948765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=948770&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F10%2Fin-which-i-evict-classroom-squatters.html To-day's lecture dealt with sharp force injuries. This is the time when I haul the teaching materials out of my office to really get the point across. No, I didn't say that deliberately. I cover the difference between incised wounds (long and shallow) vs. stab wounds (short and deep). We talk about parts of the knife, why one should always X-ray stab wounds, which brand of knives are the best for stabbing your victim multiple times (the brand of choice in that situation is CUTCO, from Olean, N.Y. by-the-by. They hold up so much better than the cheap Taiwanese ones, and they're cheaper than the Henckel's. Really. The guy that used the cheap knives bent all the ones in the knife block, where the one who used the Cutco knife did it all with the 15" blade. ) Be that as it may, then we get to ... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=948770 Mon, 01 Oct 2007 20:02:00 +0100 948770 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=948772&cid=t_100660_155_f&fid=36520&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdrzeusforensicfiles.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F09%2Fskulls-and-stuff.html Awright. The one at the top is a side view, this was in a Greek neighborhood on the near West Side, and was someone's Easter dinner. Yes,it's a sheep. There was some confusion because it was found two weeks after Easter, but the Orthodox church is still on the Julian calender, so that caused some confusion until someone remembered their history. I use this in my "People Do NOT Have Snouts" lecture. The bottom view is an actual, human infant. Why the cops confused the two, I really have no idea. Some folks are just excitable, I guess.The other one in my office is cat. I use it to illustrate animal activity and puncture wounds. There was a woman who had a long psychiatric history found with multiple, patterned puncture marks all over her hands and arms, and long linear evenly spaced scratche... Dr. Zeus's Forensic Files blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=948772 Fri, 28 Sep 2007 19:14:00 +0100 948772 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=558384&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Funspeakable.html The Shrink Rappers have been quiet for a few days. It's hard to know what to say. I've called Clink, told her she has to post, I'm sure she'll have some thoughts soon. My oldest is thinking about colleges, here stands a reminder that safety, both ours and our children's, is a just an illusion. For everyone, my heart wraps around the unthinkable grief and sadness-- mostly it's too painful to even watch for more than a few minutes.The New York Times ran a piece today about mass murders and mental illness, it didn't say much of substance. Cho was angry, maybe he had a personality disorder-- they speculate on which one, avoidant, paranoid, perhaps he was depressed or psychotic. Certainly, he was angry, and the article starts by saying he had a hole in his soul. I don't know what that means, bu... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=558384 Sat, 21 Apr 2007 02:10:00 +0100 558384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=548297&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F04%2Fmy-three-shrinks-podcast-16.html ClinkShrink here. I volunteered to help Roy by editing one of our podcasts--heaven help me, I did the best I could. Be patient, I'm using Windows. This is podcast number 16 which was actually podcast number 14 taped about a month ago and taken out of order for no particular reason.April 17, 2007Topics include:First up are the Top 25 Crimes of the Century, a topic that could only be mine. It's a Time article that lists some of the most infamous or unusual crimes, but I have a couple bones to pick about their choices. Roy and Dinah just think I'm weird for even knowing this stuff. [Listen in to find out Clink's favorite crime. -Roy]Next we answer a question from Driving Miss Molly regarding how much and what kind of preparations psychiatrists do before their patients' appointments.Finally we... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=548297 Tue, 17 Apr 2007 13:00:00 +0100 548297 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=508235&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fwalk-like-psychiatrist.html Roy, oh Roy, too many 'roids, it's Roy unleashed....So Roy wrote these lyrics on the comment section of ClinkShrink's Comet post, and I just can't resist clipping and pasting them. Please, sing loudly, very loudly, to the tune of Walk Like An Egyptian!All the old inmates in their cellsThey do the Haldol dance don't you knowIf they move too quick (oh whey oh)They're gettin' a dose of InderalAll the bizarre men have a fileThey got a gray mouse for a petSeroquel smiles (oh whey oh)They trade their pills for a cigaretteFreudian types with the hookah pipes sayAy oh whey oh, ay oh whey ohWalk like a psychiatristThe big COs like to take their keysThey spin around and they cross the floorThey've got your back (oh whey oh)You're in the clink so they guard the doorAll the prisoners like to see the d... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=508235 Thu, 29 Mar 2007 01:11:00 +0100 508235 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470305&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fno-you-dont.html I think Dinah raised an interesting topic in her last post. Can psychiatrists ever refuse to treat someone, or to treat them only under certain conditions?I'll leave Dinah and Roy to talk about the free society way of handling that; I can address what happens inside the walls.The patients I treat get locked up because of persistent misbehavior or persistent high-risk behavior. (I don't call it 'self-destructive' behavior---even though it is---because inside the walls that term has a very different connotation.) I don't really ever have the option of not treating someone. My clinic is never too full to accept new patients and our jail/emergency room never goes on 'fly-by' status due to lack of bed space. So, I get all comers.That being said, I do have certain limits. By the time I get my pa... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470305 Sat, 10 Mar 2007 17:55:00 +0100 470305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470319&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F03%2Fmy-three-shrinks-13-lost-it-in-space.html So, we kinda have a space theme going today. This is consistent with my long-term wish to be a space-doctor (no wise-cracks, please). I figure those folks stuck on the eventual moon base (or on Mars!) could use a psychiatrist, don't you think? There's also a cameo appearance on this podcast of Dinah's daughter. Enjoy.March 4, 2007:Topics include:How does NASA handle psychiatric emergencies in space? The recent 'astronaut goes wild' headlines get us talking about NASA's procedures for handling acute psychotic breaks and suicidal behavior in space. Also, go to page 847 of the above-linked document to see the list of medications which are kept on the ISS (International Space Station). Listen to the podcast to find out which antidepressant is the SSRI of choice for NASA.Q&A: Sandra, a prolific... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470319 Sun, 04 Mar 2007 17:00:00 +0100 470319 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470320&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Fmy-three-shrinks-podcast-8-positively.html This podcast is a continuation from our #7 podcast, in front of Dinah's fireside studio (complete with the sound of an actual fire popping). I decided to leave those sounds in, but I did edit out Click's occasional cough (she's all better now).January 30, 2007: Topics include:Lost. 8 more days (good collection of media snippets at LostHatch.com).NYT: Optimism. "You Are What You Expect" by Jim Holt in the Jan 21 issue. The NYT Magazine also ran a story on Jan 7 about positive psychology (the link is actually to The Huffington Post's post about this), and talks about one of the field's founders, Marty Seligman, who runs the Positive Psychology Center at UPenn (you can also participate in some quick online research there). Link to My Thought Coach on iTunes. "Expect more of yourself, and less... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470320 Wed, 31 Jan 2007 04:45:00 +0100 470320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470310&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2007%2F01%2Fmy-three-shrinks-podcast-4-gifts_01.html Today's podcast was recorded at the same time as #3 (Wii Three Bobo Dolls), and is much more rambling than usual (though we actually did have a list of topics, many of which were related to other bloggers' recent posts). I edited out Dinah's recording of the Red Sox' 2004 victory, but I'll put it in the next one if folks want to hear it (it's on her keychain). December 31, 2006: Gifts Topics include: Informed consent and emergencies: New Jersey Supreme Court may require consent before providing emergency procedures (American Medical News) Doctor Anonymous' 6-month anniversary: Dr A celebrated 6 months of blogging on Dec 18. (That's twice as long as the average blog lasts.) Congrats! Fat Doctor on gift-giving grief (or, Why she kinda hates Christmas) What to get your psychiatrist Bad gifts... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470310 Mon, 01 Jan 2007 05:12:00 +0100 470310 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=470309&cid=t_100660_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2006%2F12%2Fmy-three-shrinks-podcast-2-roots.html We'd like to thank our readers and listeners for your kind comments and suggestions about our first podcast. This one's a bit longer, at about 33 minutes. I think we'll get better about the time. About 20 minutes seems to be a good balance. This is actually the second half of the original podcast, which went long so we sliced it into two podcasts. Don't expect to get a podcast every other day... if we do one every other week, I'll be pleasantly surprised (though I'm striving for every Sunday). Maybe we can be like Digg's Kevin Rose and Alex Albrecht and drink alcohol at the beginning of each podcast... that would be interesting.Here are the show notes for the podcast: December 10, 2006: RootsTopics include: Dr Anonymous is again not mentioned in this podcast (but we do thank him for the id... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=470309 Sun, 10 Dec 2006 19:57:00 +0100 470309