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Fragmentary femora: Evaluation of the accuracy of the direct and indirect methods in stature reconstructionEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Selected measurements of the femur have been used in the derivation of regression equations for stature estimation in several populations. Various studies have indicated that stature can be estimated from fragmentary bones by either the direct or the indirect method. The direct method allows for the estimation of stature directly from individual or combination of measurements of fragments of the femur. However, the indirect method consists of two steps. An initial step which involves the estimation of maximum length of the femur from measurements of its fragments is followed by stature estimation from the estimat...
Source: Forensic Science International - October 5, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Mubarak Ariyo Bidmos Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Editorial BoardEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
(Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - October 5, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: journals

Partial bowel obstruction in a 2-month-old child. A delayed diagnosis of anal abuseEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
We present the case of an anal sexual abuse involving a 2-month-old boy, who was admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Unit of the University of Padua for low bowel obstruction. The infant had been already hospitalized for 3 days in a peripheral hospital and treated with daily rectal wash-outs for a fecaloma. Only after a careful interpretation of the plain abdominal radiograph, along with the performance of a rectoscopy and a laparotomy, a vegetable foreign body (about 3cm in diameter and 7cm in length) was discovered in the sigma. The morphology and dimensions of the foreign body, as well as its location, left no doubt about...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 21, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Anna Aprile, Eleonora Cesca, Giovanni Cecchetto, Guido Viel, Guendalina Mognato, Piergiorgio Gamba Tags: Case Reports Source Type: journals

GC–MS and GC–IRD studies on dimethoxyamphetamines (DMA): Regioisomers related to 2,5-DMAEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The mass spectrum of the drug of abuse 2,5-dimethoxyamphetamine (2,5-DMA) is characterized by an imine fragment base peak at m/z 44 and additional fragments at m/z 151/152 for the dimethoxybenzyl cation and radical cation, respectively. Five positional ring isomers of dimethoxyamphetamines (DMA) have an isomeric relationship to 2,5-DMA. All six compounds have the same molecular weight and produce similar EI mass spectra. This lack of mass spectral specificity for the isomers in addition to the possibility of chromatographic coelution could result in misidentification. The lack of reference materials for the poten...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 21, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Hadir M. Maher, Tamer Awad, Jack DeRuiter, C. Randall Clark Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

The analytical profile of some 4-methylthioamphetamine (4-MTA) homologuesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The 4-methylthioamphetamine (4-MTA) is a sulphur-containing amphetamine-type stimulant (ATS), which appeared on the illicit market in Europe at the end of 90s. For the purpose of this study, several N-alkyl homologues of 4-MTA, including 4-methylthiomethamphetamine (4-MTMA), 4-methylthioethylamphetamine (4-MTEA), 4-methylthiodimethamphetamine (4-MTDMA), 4-methylthiopropylamphetamine (4-MTPA) and 4-methylthiobutylamphetamine (4-MTBA) were synthesized. The homologues were characterized by means of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC–MS), infrared (IR) spectroscopy and the magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H ...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 21, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Dariusz Błachut, Krystyna Wojtasiewicz, Zbigniew Czarnocki, Bogdan Szukalski Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Basic forensic identification of artificial leather for hit-and-run casesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this report, basic studies were conducted on identification of artificial leathers and single fibers from leather materials. Fiber morphology was observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), color of these leather sheets was evaluated by microspectrophotometry (MSP), the leather components were measured by infrared micro spectrometry (micro-FT-IR) and the inorganic contents were ascertained by micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (micro-XRF). These two methods contribute to other analytical methods too, in the case of utilized single fiber analytical methods. The combination of these techniques showed high potent...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 17, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Tetsuya Sano, Shinichi Suzuki Tags: Short Communications Source Type: journals

A case of shotgun injury which occurred while an unconventional home security alarm system was being checkedEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Installation of devices involving shotguns is rarely encountered in forensic medicine practice.In this case report, authors aimed to present an unusual and rare case of shotgun injury due to a home security alarm system and its legal assessment.An electrical technician was invited to a summer house to check a home security alarm system installed by another firm which he worked for previously. It was an unconventional home security alarm system attached to a shotgun. The technician was injured with 18 buckshot pellets (no: 4) while checking the system. The host was convicted of a possible intent to cause a life-th...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 17, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Mahmut Asirdizer, Mehmet Sunay Yavuz Tags: Case Reports Source Type: journals

Selection effects and database screening in forensic scienceEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: We argue that it is, in principle, not difficult to deal with selection effects in forensic science. If a suspect is selected through a process that is related to the forensic evidence, then the strength of the evidence will be compensated by very small prior odds. No further correction is necessary. The same is true for so-called data-dependent hypotheses. These are allowed, since if the hypothesis is really “tailored around” the evidence, the evidential value will be high but the prior odds will compensate for that. The assessment of the prior odds is outside the scope of the forensic scientist, but he shou...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 10, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Marjan Sjerps, Ronald Meester Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Odontometric sex assessment in IndiansEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Sex determination of unidentified skeletal remains is important and various hard-tissue parameters have been evaluated towards this end. The dentition is considered as a useful adjunct in skeletal sex determination, particularly since teeth are resistant to postmortem destruction and fragmentation. Sex dimorphism in tooth size and the accuracy of odontometric sex prediction, is found to vary in different regions and researchers have advocated the need for population-specific data. No odontometric standards exist for Indians for use in forensic sex prediction. Therefore, this study examined sexual dimorphism in In...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 9, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Sudeendra Prabhu, Ashith B. Acharya Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

A fast ultrasound-assisted extraction procedure for trace elements determination in hair samples by ICP-MS for forensic analysisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: An ultrasound-assisted extraction method is proposed for the determination of trace elements in hair samples by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for forensic investigation. Prior to analysis, 25mg of hair samples were accurately weighed into (15mL) conical tubes. Then, 2mL of 20% HNO3 is added to the samples, sonicated at 2min (50W, 100% amplitude), and then further diluted to 10mL with Milli-Q water. Resulted diluted slurries are centrifuged and the analytes are directly determined in the supernatant. Calibrations against aqueous solutions were carried out with rhodium as internal standard. ...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 9, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Bruno Lemos Batista, Jairo Lisboa Rodrigues, Vanessa Cristina de Oliveira Souza, Fernando Barbosa Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Editorial BoardEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
(Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - September 7, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: journals

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This is the second edition of a book first published in 1997 “written for medical examiners, coroners, and other law enforcements officers who are responsible for conducting death investigations” (p. xi), specifically with the aim of providing “the medico legal officer some guidelines for determining how to choose and when to use a forensic anthropologist” (p. xi). Written for a North American audience, the book consists of 11 chapters which adequately cover the breadth of information potentially provided by a forensic anthropologist: from the investigation of the scene (chapter 2), recovery (chapter 4) and analysi...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 6, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Dr Soren Blau Tags: Book Review Source Type: journals

Immunohistochemical detection of CCR2 and CX3CR1 in sepsis-induced lung injuryEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Sepsis is a systemic inflammatory disease with high mortality. In the present study, we immunohistochemically examined CCR2 and CX3CR1 expression in sepsis-induced lung injury, and discussed its availability for the postmortem diagnosis of sepsis. Lung samples were obtained from different lung lobes of nine sepsis and eight control cases with postmortem intervals between 12 and 48h. Immunohistochemically, mononuclear cells recruited into the lungs expressed CCR2 and CX3CR1 in both sepsis and non-septic groups. In double-color immunofluorescence analysis, CCR2- or CX3CR1-positive cells could be identified as CD68-...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 6, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Jun-Ling An, Yuko Ishida, Akihiko Kimura, Michael Tsokos, Toshikazu Kondo Tags: Short Communications Source Type: journals

Estimating the shooting distance of a 9-mm Parabellum bullet via ballistic experimentEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: We demonstrate here how the shooting distance of a 9-mm Parabellum FMJ bullet (115gr) has been estimated via shooting experiments. Such a bullet was found by investigators near a concrete wall, fairly distorted at its tip. The bullet carries no evidence of multiple impact and no evidence of ballistic impact on the wall has been reported. We estimated the impact velocity by comparing the questioned bullet with a set of comparison bullets hitting a wall (rigid target) with different velocities. The shooting distance was recovered from the impact velocity by studying the typical behavior of a manufactured 9mm bullet...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 6, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: F. Bresson, O. Franck Tags: Short Communications Source Type: journals

A comparison between neural network and other metric methods to determine sex from the upper femur in a modern French populationEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In conclusion, the artificial neural network is a powerful classification technique that may improve the accuracy rate of sex determination models for skeletal remains. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - September 6, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Ph. du Jardin, J. Ponsaillé, V. Alunni-Perret, G. Quatrehomme Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Post-mortem biochemical investigations of vitreous humorEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: For several decades vitreous humor has been used for post-mortem biochemical investigations with the objective of a post-mortem diagnosis of pre-existing diseases and the clarification of forensic issues, in particular the determination of the post-mortem interval. For the determination of measured concentrations in vitreous humor pre-analytic factors as well as analytical and instrumental variations have to be taken into consideration. The aim of this study was a methodical investigation of two methods of sample pre-treatment as influencing variables. The compared methods were centrifugation and treatment in the...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 3, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Annette Thierauf, Frank Musshoff, Burkhard Madea Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) polymorphism: A risk factor for fatal coronary sclerosis?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Conclusion: In cases of fatal premature coronary sclerosis and proven apoE ɛ4-allele, blood relatives should receive advice. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - September 3, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Steffen Heide, Kleiber Manfred, Christiane Gläser, Susanne Schulz Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Simulating transfer and persistence of a chemical marker powder for Lycopodium clavatum sporesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: In this research a chemical marker powder, based on Lycopodium clavatum spores, was studied to determine its transfer and persistence on a T-shirt. Such chemical marker powders are used to provide evidence that a person has handled a covertly marked object, such as a drug package. The powder was found to transfer readily between a marked item and the person handling it. The powder was found to persist on a T-shirt for up to 13h; however, there was only a very small amount of powder remaining at this time. The rate of loss of the L. clavatum spores was found to follow a decay curve. The largest decrease in spores ...
Source: Forensic Science International - September 2, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Jennifer Howarth, Sally Coulson, Angus Newton Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Development of latent fingermarks on thermal paper: Preliminary investigation into use of iodine fumingEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this study an attempt has been made to explain the reaction mechanism of the process. In case of different types of thermal papers, presence of different substituents on leuco dye (lactone ring) structure resulted in development of different colored fingermarks upon reaction with iodine. Sebaceous material laden marks have been found to be more intensely developed as compared to eccrine marks, and the difference was more pronounced in case of aged fingermarks. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - September 1, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Om Prakash Jasuja, Gagandeep Singh Tags: Rapid Communication Source Type: journals

Voltammetric determination of cocaine in confiscated samples using a cobalt hexacyanoferrate film-modified electrodeEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: In this work, a fast, non destructive voltammetric method for cocaine detection in acetonitrile medium using a platinum disk electrode chemically modified with cobalt-hexacyanoferrate (CoHCFe) film is described. The deposition of CoHCFe film at platinum disk (working electrode) was carried out in aqueous solution containing NaClO4 at 0.1molL−1 as supporting electrolite. Stability studies of the film and subsequent voltammetric analysis of cocaine were made in acetonitrile medium with NaClO4 at 0.1molL−1 as supporting electrolite. A reversible interaction between cocaine and CoHCFe at the film produces a propo...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 31, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Érica Naomi Oiye, Natalia Biziak de Figueiredo, José Fernando de Andrade, Heloisa Maria Tristão, Marcelo Firmino de Oliveira Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Ballistic parameters of cal. 9mm×17mm industrial blank cartridges (cattle cartridges)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Conclusion: Enormous gas pressure values of more than 3900bar emphasize the power of industrial blank cartridges. Once again, the harmlessness of these blank cartridges and the weapons/tools that are operated with these propellants is refuted. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 31, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: M. Frank, E. Franke, K.P. Philipp, B. Bockholdt, A. Ekkernkamp Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Serial postmortem abdominal radiographic findings in canine cadaversEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This study showed that abdominal radiographic postmortem changes occurred most rapidly between 8 and 16h post-euthanasia at the ambient temperature of 22–33°C. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 31, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Hock Gan Heng, Gayathri Thevi Selvarajah, Hiang Tee Lim, Jin Seng Ong, Jiehan Lim, Jin Tatt Ooi Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

New perspectives in the use of ink evidence in forensic science: Part III: Operational applications and evaluationEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This report focuses on the last of the three stages of the research programme. The calibration and acquisition process and the mathematical comparison algorithms were described in previous papers [C. Neumann, P. Margot, New perspectives in the use of ink evidence in forensic science—Part I: Development of a quality assurance process for forensic ink analysis by HPTLC, Forensic Sci. Int. 185 (2009) 29–37; C. Neumann, P. Margot, New perspectives in the use of ink evidence in forensic science—Part II: Development and testing of mathematical algorithms for the automatic comparison of ink samples analysed by HPTLC, Forens...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 31, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Cedric Neumann, Pierre Margot Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Is re-creation of human identity possible using tooth prints? An experimental study to aid in identificationEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Enamel in teeth, as documented is the hardest substance in the entire human body. Tooth prints are the enamel rod end patterns on the tooth surface. Could this fact be a boon in utilizing it for an individual's identification in the hands of forensic experts? A study has been attempted towards the same. These tooth prints were recorded for 60 extracted tooth specimens after acid etching using a cellophane tape. Subsequently a digital image of the print was obtained which was subjected to biometric conversion using Verifinger standard SDK version 6.0 software followed by the use of Automated Fingerprint Identifica...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 27, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Nidhi Gupta, Kiran Jadhav, B.R. Ahmed Mujib, Vikram S. Amberkar Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Genetic variability of RyR2 and CASQ2 genes in an Asian populationEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This study shows that multiple genetic variations of the RyR2 and CASQ2 genes exist in the two study populations. The inter-individual genetic variability may underlie the different susceptibility of individuals to developing ventricular tachycardia. The research results will be valuable for which future work involving clinical and forensic samples can be based upon to distinguish potential disease-associated mutations from common polymorphisms. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 25, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Chang Hua Wong, Seok Hwee Koo, George Qiongze She, Paul Chui, Edmund Jon Deoon Lee Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Study of endolaryngeal structures by videolaryngoscopy after hanging: A new approach to understanding the physiopathogenesisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Conclusion: Laryngofibroscopic examination in hanging cases could be very useful in confirming the vital character of the hanging and understanding asphyxial phenomena in incomplete suspension without laryngeal crush. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 20, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: S. Duband, A.P. Timoshenko, R. Mohammedi, J.-M. Prades, F.-G. Barral, M. Debout, M. Péoc’h Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Medical malpractice claims involving childrenEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Conclusion: We think that the results of this study will contribute to the data about the profile of medical malpractice claims involving children will increase awareness in medical malpractices and deter health staff from malpractice. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 20, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: M.H. Özdemir, T.A. Ergönen, İ.Ö. Can Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Intra-abdominal needle: Medical malpractice?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
This report discusses issues relating to this case that were raised during the criminal proceedings relating to the medical negligence claim. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 16, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Lorenzo Varetto, Claudio Gargallo Tags: Case Reports Source Type: journals

The evaluation of age-related histomorphometric variables in a cadaver sample of lower socioeconomic status: implications for estimating age at deathEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Estimating age at death from adult skeletal remains is a daunting task for human osteologists. For this reason, the evaluation of micro-structural changes in bone with advancing age has become a popular method. However, factors such as nutrition, chronic disease, population group and sex have been suggested to influence the rate of bone turnover, and thus the use of histological methods in providing an accurate age at death has been questioned. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and repeatability of 10 histomorphometric traits used to estimate age. The sample comprised of 146 dissection room c...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 12, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: N. Keough, E.N. L’Abbé, M. Steyn Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Influence of rain and malathion on the oviposition and development of blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) infesting rabbit carcasses in Kelantan, MalaysiaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The influence of rain and malathion on the initial oviposition as well as development of blowfly species infesting rabbit carcasses decomposing in sunlit and shaded habitats were studied over a period of 1 year in Kelantan, Malaysia. Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) was the most dominant species that infested the carcasses, followed by Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart). In general, rain, depending on its intensity, delayed initial oviposition by 1–2 days and prolonged the pupation period by 1–3 days. The presence of malathion in the carcasses delayed initial oviposition by 1–3 days and prolonged the pupation...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 10, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: N.A. Mahat, Z. Zafarina, P.T. Jayaprakash Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Osteometric sex determination from the pelvis—Does population specificity matter?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Sex determination from unknown skeletal remains is of vital importance in forensic anthropology, and much research has been conducted in this field. One of the most commonly used methods is to create discriminant function formulae from metric data. It is widely argued in the literature that these formulae are population-specific, as various populations differ with regard to general body size and degree of sexual dimorphism. However, the population of origin may not always be known, and formulae do not exist for all possible population groups. The aim of this study was to assess whether it is really necessary to d...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 9, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: M. Steyn, M.L. Patriquin Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Construction and analysis of a head CT-scan database for craniofacial reconstructionEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
We report the average thickness values at each landmark and compare our measures to those of the traditional charts of [J. Rhine, C.E. Moore, Facial Tissue Thickness of American Caucasoïds, Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, Albuquerque, New Mexico, 1982] and of several recent in vivo studies [M.H. Manhein, G.A. Listi, R.E. Barsley, et al., In vivo facial tissue depth measurements for children and adults, Journal of Forensic Sciences 45 (1) (2000) 48–60; S. De Greef, P. Claes, D. Vandermeulen, et al., Large-scale in vivo Caucasian facial soft tissue thickness database for craniofacial reconstruction, Forensic Science Inter...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 9, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Françoise Tilotta, Frédéric Richard, Joan Glaunès, Maxime Berar, Servane Gey, Stéphane Verdeille, Yves Rozenholc, J.F. Gaudy Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Identification of active ingredients in dietary supplements using non-destructive mass spectrometry and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometryEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: A mid-forties woman purchased seven different dietary supplements from Thailand on the internet and subsequently died after taking these supplements. Since there were no ingredient labels on the supplements, we identified the active ingredients using direct analysis in real time–mass spectrometry (DART–MS), direct exposure probe–MS (DEP–MS), and liquid chromatography–MS (LC–MS). DART–MS gives exact molecular weights and DEP–MS shows the fragmentation of a molecule by electron ionization. Analyses using these two instruments are rapid and do not require extraction of the sample. The compounds predi...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 5, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Kanju Saka, Kiyotaka Konuma, Shigehiro Asai, Kana Unuma, Makoto Nakajima, Ken-ichi Yoshida Tags: Case Reports Source Type: journals

Soil temperature calculation for burial site analysisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The effect of air and water temperature upon the decomposition of human remains and upon biological activity has been extensively studied. However, less attention has been devoted to the temperature of the soil surrounding burials, despite its potential influence upon chemical reactions involved in the decomposition of human remains, drugs and toxins, as well as upon microbial and insect activity. A soil temperature calculation equation usually employed in civil engineering was used to calculate soil temperature at various depths in a cemetery located in Brisbane, Australia, in order to explain the extensive degr...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 5, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Jonathan Prangnell, Glenys McGowan Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Objective paper structure comparison through processing of transmitted light imagesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: A method for the comparison of paper structure using light transmission images and frequency analysis was developed. The resolution of the light transmission images and the algorithm for the feature extraction were greatly improved to enhance the visibility of peaks in the 2D power spectrum that results from frequency analysis. A comparison method based on correlation measures how well the spectra match as a function of the orientation of the paper, yielding an objective and quantitative measure of similarity between 0 and 1. A technical validation was carried out with 25 different papers showing the potential of...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 2, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Charles E.H. Berger Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

First report of Triphleba nudipalpis (Becker) (Diptera: Phoridae) in a forensic caseEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The only insects found on a corpse of a murder victim buried at least 1m deep in a heavy clay soil in East of England proved to be Triphleba nudipalpis (Becker), a species not previously reported from a forensic case. Its larva is described. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - August 2, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: R.H.L. Disney, J.D. Manlove Tags: Case Reports Source Type: journals

Relationship of nasal and skeletal landmarks in lateral cephalograms of preschool childrenEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between cephalometric nasal and skeletal landmarks in preschool children. Lateral cephalograms of 80 Japanese preschool children (40 boys, mean age 5.4±0.3 years; 40 girls, mean age 5.2±0.1 years; total mean age 5.3±0.3 years) were traced, and 22 skeletal and 3 soft-tissue nasal points were digitized. The coordinates from each subject were transformed to a standardized plane using a custom-made program written in Microsoft Visual C++®. In this standard plane, sella was the origin, Frankfort Horizontal (FH) plane was parallel to the X-axis, and all ...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 2, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Emi Inada, Issei Saitoh, Haruaki Hayasaki, Yoko Iwase, Naoko Kubota, Yoshihiko Tokemoto, Chiaki Yamada, Youichi Yamasaki Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Analysis of black writing ink by electrospray ionization mass spectrometryEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: A method for the analysis of dyes and vehicles within writing inks was developed. The method was tested on a set of 18 black ink pens comprised of 6 ballpoint, 6 gel, and 6 rollerball pens. The sampling procedure utilized a small number of ink-coated paper fibers collected surreptitiously from the document, causing minimal damage and providing a sufficient quantity of ink for analysis. Methanol proved suitable for the extraction of ink components from ballpoint, gel and rollerball pens. Three separate electrospray ionisation-mass spectrometry (ESI-MS) methods were required to detect the dyes and vehicles from the...
Source: Forensic Science International - August 2, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Mary R. Williams, Chris Moody, Lei-Ann Arceneaux, Caitlin Rinke, Katie White, Michael E. Sigman Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Determination of Malathion levels and its effect on the development of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) in South ChinaEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The present study determines the concentration of Malathion in rabbit tissues and Dipteral larvae feeding on those tissues. Malathion was found in all muscle and liver samples of the test rabbit, as well as larvae fed on it. Samples from the control rabbit and pupae from all colonies were negative for Malathion. Correlations were found between administered dosage, tissue concentrations and younger or prepuparial larvae. Effects of Malathion on the development rate of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) were also reported. C. megacephala is the most common fly species found on corpses in South China during the early...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 30, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Xiaoshan Liu, Yanwei Shi, Haiyang Wang, RunJie Zhang Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Time-lapse resistivity surveys over simulated clandestine gravesEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The aim of this study was to develop a better understanding of how electrical resistivity surveys can be used to locate clandestine graves. Resistivity surveys were conducted regularly over three simulated clandestine graves containing a pig cadaver, no cadaver and a pig cadaver wrapped in tarpaulin, respectively. Additionally, soil and groundwater samples were collected from two more simulated graves outside the survey area. The grave containing a pig cadaver was detectable from a low resistivity anomaly in the survey data. Groundwater data suggest that the resistivity anomaly associated with the surveyed pig gr...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 30, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: John R. Jervis, Jamie K. Pringle, George W. Tuckwell Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Sexual dimorphism of ossified costal cartilage. Radiograph scan study on Caucasian men and women (Czech population)Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The aim of our study was to evaluate differences between males and females based on patterns of costal cartilage ossification and also with respect to ageing.We provided diagnosis of ossifications from two files of radiograms. The first group consisted of 1044 chest and abdominal radiograms of patients (537 men and 507 women), ranging in age from 10 to 95 years obtained by using conventional X-ray technique. The second group was a set of 55 radiograms of chest plate fragments of cadavers (29 men and 26 women) aged from 15 to 98, obtained by using soft X-ray imaging in the skiagraphic–skiascopic unit. Ossificati...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 30, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Olga Rejtarová, Petr Hejna, Pavel Rejtar, Josef Bukač, Dáša Slížová, Otakar Krs Tags: Forensic Anthropology Population Data Source Type: journals

Forensic evidence in apparel fabrics due to stab eventsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Stab injuries and fatalities have been reported to be the most common crimes of violence in several countries, particularly in those where access to firearms is restricted [J.M. Taupin, F.-P. Adolf, J. Robertson, Examination of damage to textiles, in: J. Robertson, M. Grieve (Eds.), Forensic Examination of Fibres, CRC Press, United States of America, 1999, pp. 65–87; A.C. Hunt, R.J. Cowling, Murder by stabbing, Forensic Sci. Int. 52 (1991) 107–112; D.A. Rouse, Patterns of stab wounds: a six year study, Med. Sci. Law 34 (1994) 67–71]. Analysis of damaged apparel may provide important information about the ca...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 30, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: S.E. Kemp, D.J. Carr, J. Kieser, B.E. Niven, M.C. Taylor Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

The superficial temporal fat pad and its ramifications for temporalis muscle construction in facial approximationEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: The construction of the facial muscles (particularly those of mastication) is generally thought to enhance the accuracy of facial approximation methods because they increase attention paid to face anatomy. However, the lack of consideration for non-muscular structures of the face when using these “anatomical” methods ironically forces one of the two large masticatory muscles to be exaggerated beyond reality. To demonstrate and resolve this issue the temporal region of nineteen caucasoid human cadavers (10 females, 9 males; mean age=84 years, s=9 years, range=58–97 years) were investigated. Soft tissue depth...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 26, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Carl N. Stephan, Matthew Devine Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Editorial BoardEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
(Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - July 25, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Source Type: journals

The value of practitioner research in the field of fingerprint analysisEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Some of the issues raised by Mr. Saks are covered in the response to Dr. Dror. Upon the issues of experimental design raised by Mr. Saks we feel it is necessary to highlight that the participants were not informed that their performance was being tested. Furthermore individual performance testing was not inferred prior, during or after the experiment. It was made clear that the experiment was anonymous and the individual's performance would not be used or disseminated in any way. (Source: Forensic Science International)
Source: Forensic Science International - July 21, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Lisa J. Hall, Emma Player Tags: Letters to the Editor Source Type: journals

Concerning L.J. Hall, E. Player, “Will the introduction of an emotional context affect fingerprint analysis and decision-making?” [Forensic Sci. Int. 181 (2008) 36–39] [1]Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Scientific journals are usually reluctant to publish research that results in null findings. Null findings can be exceptionally important, but the reluctance to publish them has a rational basis: null findings can result from too many potential causes besides nonexistence of the phenomenon under study. Most journals are therefore willing to publish null studies, if at all, only if the studies are especially well designed, well executed, and statistically robust. For a study which purports to find the opposite of a century of research in diverse fields , the requirement of methodological excellence might have been expected ...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 20, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Michael J. Saks Tags: Letters to the Editor Source Type: journals

Different likelihood ratio approaches to evaluate the strength of evidence of MDMA tablet comparisonsEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Two likelihood ratio (LR) approaches are presented to evaluate the strength of evidence of MDMA tablet comparisons. The first one is based on a more ‘traditional’ comparison of MDMA tablets by using distance measures (e.g., Pearson correlation distance or a Euclidean distance). In this approach, LRs are calculated using the distribution of distances between tablets of the same-batch and that of different-batches. The second approach is based on methods used in some other fields of forensic comparison. Here LRs are calculated based on the distribution of values of MDMA tablet characteristics within a specific ...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 15, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Annabel Bolck, Céline Weyermann, Laurence Dujourdy, Pierre Esseiva, Jorrit van den Berg Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Value of histological study in the fronto-sphenoidal suture for the age estimation at the time of deathEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
In this study we found a significant reversed correlation between the degree of vascular expression of VWF and age at the time of death. There was also a significant positive correlation between the degree of apoptosis in the conjunctive cells of the FSS and age at the time of death. According to these results, suture closing during ageing can be explained by these two combined mechanisms of conjunctival apoptosis and vascular involution. Thus, the findings justify the study of closing sutures to estimate age at the time of death. Besides, it also enabled us to establish linear regressions. The vascular expression of the V...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 13, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Anne Dorandeu, Geoffroy Lorin de la Grandmaison, Bema Coulibaly, Michel Durigon, Marie-Dominique Piercecchi-Marti, Eric Baccino, Georges Leonetti Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Probabilistic evidential assessment of gunshot residue particle evidence (Part I): Likelihood ratio calculation and case pre-assessment using Bayesian networksEmail this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: Well developed experimental procedures currently exist for retrieving and analyzing particle evidence from hands of individuals suspected of being associated with the discharge of a firearm. Although analytical approaches (e.g. automated Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDS) microanalysis) allow the determination of the presence of elements typically found in gunshot residue (GSR) particles, such analyses provide no information about a given particle’s actual source. Possible origins for which scientists may need to account for are a primary exposure to the discharge of a firearm o...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 9, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: A. Biedermann, S. Bozza, F. Taroni Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals

Spice: A never ending story?Email this article to a colleague. Save this article to My Clippings. Discuss or comment on this article.
Abstract: On January 22nd 2009, the German Health Authorities prohibited several non-traditional cannabinoids, that proved to be the active components in popular “Bio-Designer-Drugs” like “Spice” and analogous products. The recent detection of CP 47,497-C8 in Europe and Japan documents that these products have already spread world wide. We synthesized several potentially interesting alkylaminoindoles (alkylchain C3 to C7) and isolated CP 47,497-C8 from “Spice Gold”. The compounds were purified and characterized by NMR and mass spectrometry methods. With the aid of these authentic references we were able to dete...
Source: Forensic Science International - July 8, 2009 Category: Forensic Medicine Authors: Rainer Lindigkeit, Anja Boehme, Ina Eiserloh, Maike Luebbecke, Marion Wiggermann, Ludger Ernst, Till Beuerle Tags: Research Articles Source Type: journals