Forensic Science International

Editorial Board

2010-02-25

Sharp force injuries in “clinical” forensic medicine

Ulrike Schmidt — 2009-11-26

Abstract: In general, the forensic evaluation of sharp force injuries in living and dead individuals follows the same morphologic principles. Still, there are some special features of sharp force injuries in the clinical context, which have to be considered as examination findings on the living are interpreted to differentiate between accidental origin, self-infliction or homicidal assault. These include the frequency and localization of defence injuries, injuries of the perpetrator, and artificial injuries, especially those inflicted for the purpose of insurance fraud. Characteristics and differential diagnoses of “clinical” sharp force injuries are surveyed in this article.

Classification of blunt aortic injuries a new systematic overview of aortic trauma

Ticijana Prijon, Branko Ermenc — 2009-11-23

Abstract: Blunt (non-penetrating) aortic injuries, in which the arterial wall is damaged in the direction from the intima towards the adventitia, are most commonly the result of a traffic accident. The various forms of blunt aortic injuries, from limited laceration of the intima to complete transection of the aorta, depend on the morphological structure of the arterial wall and the strength of forces causing the trauma.An overview of the literature and medical documentation reveals that different terms, including tear, laceration, disruption, transection, rupture and pseudoaneurysm, are used to describe certain forms of traumatic aortic injuries, which can lead to misinterpretation of findings or diagnoses. We therefore, propose a classification that would enable uniform systematic screening of all forms of blunt aortic injuries.In a retrospective examination of autopsy reports from 1999 to 2006, all those who had died in traffic accidents and who had blunt aortic injuries were selected from the archive at the Institute of Forensic Medicine of the Medical Faculty of the Universtiy of Ljubljana, Slovenia.Blunt aortic injuries (ruptures) were classified into three basic types and corresponding subtypes: type I (intramural), type II (transmural) and type III (multiple) aortic ruptures.The study included 230 deceased persons with 355 aortic ruptures. According to our classification, type I ruptures were observed in 25 (11%), type II ruptures in 131 (57%) and type III ruptures in 74 (32%) cases.The new classification we propose allows simple and systematic screening of all types of blunt aortic injuries. It prevents misinterpretation of various types of aortic injury in medical practice.

Intelligence-led crime scene processing. Part I: Forensic intelligence

2009-11-23

Abstract: Forensic science is generally defined as the application of science to address questions related to the law. Too often, this view restricts the contribution of science to one single process which eventually aims at bringing individuals to court while minimising risk of miscarriage of justice. In order to go beyond this paradigm, we propose to refocus the attention towards traces themselves, as remnants of a criminal activity, and their information content. We postulate that traces contribute effectively to a wide variety of other informational processes that support decision making in many situations. In particular, they inform actors of new policing strategies who place the treatment of information and intelligence at the centre of their systems. This contribution of forensic science to these security oriented models is still not well identified and captured. In order to create the best condition for the development of forensic intelligence, we suggest a framework that connects forensic science to intelligence-led policing (part I). Crime scene attendance and processing can be envisaged within this view. This approach gives indications about how to structure knowledge used by crime scene examiners in their effective practice (part II).

Application of laser ablation (LA-ICP-SF-MS) for the elemental analysis of bone and teeth samples for discrimination purposes

Waleska Castro, Jurian Hoogewerff, Christopher Latkoczy, José R. Almirall — 2009-11-27

Abstract: Human bone and teeth fragments can be useful evidence when found in crime scenes and/or mass burials sites. The elemental and isotopic composition of these samples can provide information about environmental exposure events and could also be used to distinguish different individuals. The development and application of robust analytical methods for the quantification of trace elements in these biological matrices may lead to a better understanding of the potential utility of these measurements in forensic analyses.In this paper, we demonstrate the possibility of conducting quantitative analysis of trace metals found in bone remains and suggest a strategy to discriminate between individuals, based on this information. A LA-ICP-SF-MS method using non-matrix matched standard calibration was developed and optimized with bone standard reference materials (SRMs) and subsequently applied to the analysis of real samples. The developed method requires micrograms amount of sample (vs. milligrams required for solution-based analysis) while also reducing the analysis time and resulting in good accuracy (typically <10% bias) and precision (<15% RSD). Additionally, laser ablation allowed using spatial resolution analysis to assess the biogenic elemental composition in buried bone samples.Elemental analysis of bone samples from 12 different individuals provided better discrimination between the individuals when the femur and humerus bones were considered separately (42.7% correct classification with all bones vs. 75.2% and 63.1% for femur bones and humerus bones, respectively). Separation of individuals was achieved by elemental composition of whole teeth samples from 14 individuals, except one case where not all the teeth from the same individual were associated together. Separation of individuals was improved when using elemental composition of the enamel and dentine+cementum layers separately in a set of samples from 7 individuals. These are promising results for the use of elemental analysis by laser ablation ICP-MS for discrimination purposes.

The application of laser scanning confocal microscopy to the examination of hairs and textile fibers: An initial investigation

K. Paul Kirkbride, Silvana R. Tridico — 2009-11-27

Abstract: An initial investigation of the application of laser scanning confocal microscopy to the examination of hairs and fibers has been conducted. This technique allows the production of virtual transverse and longitudinal cross-sectional images of a wide range of hairs and fibers. Special mounting techniques are not required; specimens that have been mounted for conventional microscopy require no further treatment. Unlike physical cross-sectioning, in which it is difficult to produce multiple cross-sections from a single hair or fiber and the process is destructive, confocal microscopy allows the examiner to image the cross-section at any point in the field of view along the hair or fiber and it is non-destructive. Confocal microscopy is a fluorescence-based technique. The images described in this article were collected using only the autofluorescence exhibited by the specimen (i.e. fluorescence staining was not necessary). Colorless fibers generally and hairs required excitation at 405nm in order to stimulate useful autofluorescence; longer wavelength excitation was suitable for dyed fibers. Although confocal microscopy was found to be generally applicable to the generation virtual transverse cross-sections from a wide range of hairs and fibers, on some occasions the autofluorescence signal was attenuated by heavy pigmentation or the presence of an opaque medulla in hairs, and by heavy delustering or the presence of air-filled voids in the case of fibers. In these situations only partial cross-sections were obtained.

Comparative study of ATR and transflection IR spectroscopic techniques for the analysis of hallucinogenic mushrooms

A. Koçak, L.M. De Cotiis, D.B. Hoffman — 2009-12-07

Abstract: This paper compares the use of ATR and transflection spectroscopic techniques for the qualitative analysis of psilocin extracted from hallucinogenic mushrooms and control spiked mushrooms. Both techniques gave comparable results and agreed with prior GC/MS analysis of the actual case samples.

Insect succession and carrion decomposition in selected forests of Central Europe. Part 2: Composition and residency patterns of carrion fauna

Szymon Matuszewski, Daria Bajerlein, Szymon Konwerski, Krzysztof Szpila — 2009-12-17

Abstract: The insect fauna of pig carcasses was monitored in different seasons and forests of Western Poland (Central Europe). The composition of carrion fauna and selected features of residency in carrion in adults and larvae of particular taxa were analysed. A total of 131 adult and 36 larval necrophilous taxa were collected. Only 51 adult species and 24 larval taxa were minimally abundant (≥10 specimens) at least on one carcass. As for the composition of carrion fauna, there were large differences between seasons, but no important differences between forest types.In most species of Diptera, length of the presence period of adults was between 35 and 65% of the sampling interval, while in most species of Coleoptera, it was above 60%. Only in a few species (e.g., Saprinus semistriatus, Necrodes littoralis or Creophilus maxillosus) was the presence period shorter than 35% of the sampling interval. Interestingly, in some adult Coleoptera (e.g., Necrobia violacea) very long presence periods were recorded. In most taxa, the length of the presence period of larvae was between 40 and 65% of the sampling interval. Only Calliphora vomitoria, Phormia regina, Hydrotaea dentipes, N. littoralis and C. maxillosus had shorter presence periods of larvae.As a rule, residency of adults was broken, whereas residency of larvae was unbroken. Moreover, in adults, two distinct residency patterns were observed; with breaks clumped in the final part of the presence period and with breaks evenly distributed inside the presence period.Almost in all taxa, the time of appearance showed the closest relationship to the onset of bloating. The relationship was significant, positive and strong in adults of P. regina, Fannia manicata, Hydrotaea ignava, Stearibia nigriceps, S. semistriatus, N. littoralis and C. maxillosus as well as larvae of P. regina, H. dentipes, H. ignava, S. nigriceps, N. littoralis, Oiceoptoma thoracicum, Thanatophilus sp., C. maxillosus and Philonthus sp. Interestingly, in some forensically significant taxa (e.g., adults of N. violacea or Thanatophilus rugosus), we found no significant relationship between the time of their appearance and the onset of any decompositional process.Implications for the succession-based post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation, determination of the carcass movement and the season of death are discussed.

How promptly do blowflies colonise fresh carcasses? A study comparing indoor with outdoor locations

S. Reibe, B. Madea — 2009-12-31

Abstract: We investigated the time taken by blowflies to find and oviposit on fresh carcasses placed outdoors and indoors. Paired dead piglets, one in the open and the other in a nearby room (on the first floor of an occupied, detached, suburban house near Cologne, Germany, with a window opened 9 cm) were exposed simultaneously on nine occasions. The species visiting both locations and the number of egg batches deposited by blowflies between both locations were monitored 2, 8, 24 and 48h after exposure. In all cases the indoor piglet carcass was exclusively infested by Calliphora vicina; only in one case, on a very hot day after a 48-h exposure did Lucilia sericata infest an indoor carcass. The outdoor piglets were infested by a variety of common corpse-visiting species: L. sericata, L. caesar, L. illustris, C. vicina and C. vomitoria. A significant difference in the number of egg batches was detected between indoors and outdoors. Furthermore, in only two of nine runs did oviposition occur within the first 24h of exposure indoors. Ambient temperature, daylength and rainfall had no significant effect on the number of egg batches. Moreover, we observed fewer larvae on indoor piglets, too few to form maggot masses. This might result in slower larval development than in the case of outdoor piglets. We conclude that post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation for corpses found indoors must be handled carefully as oviposition might have taken place with a delay up to 24h.

The application of computerized tomography (CT) to the dental ageing of children and adolescents

2009-12-21

Abstract: Introduction: Following a mass disaster, the aim of the Disaster Victim Identification process is to establish the identity of the victims. The ageing screening process on victims in Victoria may now be complemented with the use of computerized tomography (CT), where previously any dental ageing analysis was performed using conventional radiographs.The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of age estimation using the dental ageing method proposed by Moorrees, Fanning and Hunt (MFH) using CT images. Intra- and inter-rater variability between two raters, one experienced and one inexperienced, was also assessed.Materials and methods: The two raters were blinded to the ages of 96 deceased Australian children aged up to 15 years. Using three-dimensional (3D) shaded surface displays (SSD) and reformatted CT images, the age was first estimated based on prior experience alone, followed at a later date by the age estimation utilizing the MFH method. These estimates were then compared to the known chronological age. The results were statistically analyzed in a one-sample t-test, using the mean log-ratio of the estimated age to the chronological age.Results: Our findings show that the experienced rater was more accurate in age estimation than the less experienced when using prior experience (p<0.0001). The use of reformatted CT images to perform an ageing estimate using the MFH method was found to systematically underestimate the chronological age by 10% by both raters (p=0.784). There was no significant difference between the two raters. Intra-rater reliability was high (p=0.135).Conclusions: CT can provide accurate estimates of dental ages. Prior experience with dental ageing and/or CT improves the accuracy. However, with the use of validated ageing charts, inexperienced raters can also achieve accurate age estimates using CT images.

The population genetic structure of North American Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and the utility of genetic assignment methods for reconstruction of postmortem corpse relocation

Christine J. Picard, Jeffrey D. Wells — 2009-12-14

Abstract: Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a common urban blowfly, with a worldwide distribution. It is among the most important forensic insects, and a major veterinary pest. A previous amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) survey of Phormia regina, another blowfly, found that the North American population structure results from the fact that flies trapped together at a bait are predominantly comprised of related individuals. We report here a similar population genetic pattern for L. sericata in North America based on AFLP genotypes with 249 loci. A STRUCTURE analysis found no population structure on a geographic scale, and analysis of molecular variance found a moderate amount of variation attributed to samples (adults collected at the same bait at the same time, ΦSC=20%, P=0.001). A Mantel test found a negligible correlation between geographic and genetic distances (R2=0.0063, P=0.02). The mean relative relatedness coefficient for every sample was positive (mean R=0.2486±0.18). Gravid females in a sample, those likely to oviposit on the same corpse, showed a pattern of relatively high relatedness similar to the total survey. Therefore, this pattern of local relatedness is likely to occur with larvae in a corpse, and if so it might support a genetic test for inferring the postmortem relocation of a corpse. This is because a larva may fall from the body at the original scene as it is moved. Connecting such a “stray” larva to the larval population in a corpse would provide powerful evidence that the corpse had been at both locations. Assignment tests resulted in a 96% success rate of assigning L. sericata individuals to their samples of origin.

Studies on 1-(2-phenethyl)-4-(N-propionylanilino)piperidine (fentanyl) and related compounds: VII. Quantification of α-methylfentanyl metabolites excreted in rat urine

Shinichi Sato, Shinichi Suzuki, Xiao-Pen Lee, Keizo Sato — 2009-12-14

Abstract: The use of chemically modified controlled drugs, called designer drugs, is widespread internationally. In the 1980s, the dominant drugs of abuse were modifications of fentanyl formed by methylation of both the α-position of its phenethyl group (α-methylfentanyl) and the 3-position of its piperidine ring (3-methylfentanyl). Numerous analytical methods for fentanyl and its analogues, and many studies of its metabolism and major metabolites, have been reported. However, minor metabolites that reflected injection of the original compound were not included in these studies. Recently, structures of four novel and minor metabolites that reflect α-methylfentanyl have been reported. This study reports excretion amounts of these compounds for 96h following peroral injection to rats of 3mg/day and urine collection every 24h. Major metabolites were the same as for fentanyl, with approximately 24% of α-methylfentanyl excreted as nor-fentanyl and 15% as ω, ω-1 hydroxypropiony nor-fentanyl up to 72h post-injection. The novel metabolites were completely excreted within 48h of injection and composed 2–3% of the total metabolite pool. The major metabolite nor-fentanyl was detected up to 72h after injection.

Buprenorphine and major metabolites in blood specimens collected for drug analysis in law enforcement purposes

Stephanie Oechsler, Gisela Skopp — 2009-12-14

Abstract: A liquid chromatographic/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric method for the quantification of buprenorphine (BUP), norbuprenorphine (NBUP), buprenorphine-3-β-d-glucuronide (BUPG) and norbuprenorphine-3-β-d-glucuronide (NBUPG) in serum samples was developed and validated. Pre-treatment of BUP and NBUP was by liquid–liquid extraction, while glucuronides were favourably isolated by solid phase extraction. Separation in 2 separate runs (2× 5min) was achieved using isocratic elution. The method was applied to 20 authentic serum specimens collected for law enforcement purposes where BUP intake had been indicated. The parent drug was not detectable in half of the specimens at a lower limit of detection of 0.2ng/mL, whereas NBUP could be determined from any sample but one. NBUPG is the major metabolite present, which could be identified along with BUPG in all samples under investigation. In authentic specimens it could be advisable to monitor BUP metabolites along with the parent drug.

Differentiation of methylenedioxybenzylpiperazines (MDBP) by GC–IRD and GC–MS

Karim M. Abdel-Hay, Tamer Awad, Jack DeRuiter, C. Randall Clark — 2009-12-21

Abstract: The substituted benzylpiperazine, 3,4-methylenedioxybenzylpiperazine (3,4-MDBP) and its regioisomer 2,3-methylenedioxybenzylpiperazine (2,3-MDBP) have almost identical mass spectra. Perfluoroacylation of the secondary amine nitrogen of these regioisomeric piperazines gave mass spectra with differences in relative abundance of some fragment ions. However the spectra did not yield any unique fragments for specific identification of one regioisomer to the exclusion of the other compound.Gas chromatographic separation coupled with infrared detection (GC–IRD) provides direct confirmatory data for structural differentiation between the two regioisomers. The mass spectrum in combination with the vapor-phase infrared spectrum provides for specific confirmation of each of the regioisomeric piperazines. The underivatized and perfluoroacyl derivative forms of the ring substituted benzylpiperazines were resolved on a 30-m capillary column containing an Rxi-50 stationary phase.

Revealing obliterated engraved marks on high strength aluminium alloy (AA7010) surfaces by etching technique

Yeu Uei Bong, R. Kuppuswamy — 2009-12-18

Abstract: Restoration of obliterated engraved marks on high strength Al–Zn–Mg–Cu alloy (AA7010) surfaces by etching technique was studied. The alloy surfaces were mechanically engraved with some identification marks using “Gravograph”. The marks were then erased by removing the metal to different levels up to and below the depth of engraving. Five metallographic reagents were tested on the obliterated surfaces by etching. The following two methods (i) immersion in 10% aq. phosphoric acid and (ii) alternate swabbing of 60% HCl and 40% NaOH were found to be quite effective to reveal the obliterated marks. These two procedures were also able to show effectively the marks obliterated by over-engraving and centre punching. Of the two techniques immersion in phosphoric acid provided more contrast. Interestingly, alternate swabbing of 60% HCl and 40% NaOH presented itself to be the common reagent for restoration on pure aluminium as well as its alloy surfaces. This is evident from our own current experiments and those of earlier researchers [G. Peeler, S. Gutowski, H. Wrobel, G. Dower, The restoration of impressed characters on aluminium alloy motor cycle frames, J. Forensic Ident. 58 (1) (2008) 27–32; M. Izhar M. Baharum, R. Kuppuswamy, A.A. Rahman, Restoration of engraved marks on aluminium surfaces by etching technique, Forensic Sci. Int. 177 (2008) 221–227]. The findings have assumed importance as engines and chassis of cars and frames of firearms are currently made of high strength aluminium alloys and recovery on these surfaces by current methods is not satisfactory.

Multimodality minimally invasive autopsy—A feasible and accurate approach to post-mortem examination

2009-12-25

Abstract: Background: Autopsy examination has been the bedrock of western medicine. With the decline in the autopsy rate secondary to the negative psychological impact to the deceased's relatives, the benefits of autopsy have been undermined. Minimally invasive autopsy has been introduced but has not been widely adopted as an alternative to the ‘traditional’ open approach. This technique not only provides information on the cause of death abut also minimizes the disfigurement induced to the deceased. Our study aims to explore the feasibility and evaluate the accuracy of this technique.Methods: A series of coroner cases ordered for autopsy were examined by a group including an experienced forensic pathologist and two experienced laparoscopic surgeons using thoracoscopic, laparoscopic, endoluminal or endovascular approaches. The procedure was video-recorded and the provisional diagnoses and causes of death were made based on the findings. These findings were subsequently correlated with the full autopsy examination. A few limited clinical post-mortem examinations were also performed with consent from relatives.Results: A total of 22 cases of minimally invasive autopsies were performed from November 2007 to March 2008. The median duration of the procedures was 78.3±20.7min. Thoracoscopies and laparoscopies were performed in 18 patients while additional arterioscopic examination with endoscope was performed in two patients with suspected aortic diseases. Four consented limited clinical autopsies were also performed: two of them involved thoracoscopic biopsies of lung tissues, one was a para-mortem upper endoscopy for the investigation of pathology of the stomach and the other one was laparoscopy for a patient, who died of unexplained acidosis. Comparison with full autopsies showed that the accuracy of the diagnosis was 94.4%, the sensitivity was 90%, the specificity was 100%, the positive predictive value was 100% and the negative predictive value was 88.9%.Conclusion: Minimally invasive autopsy is a feasible approach, yielding accurate findings when compared with conventional autopsies. The former can be a valuable tool for obtaining more valuable information in situations when the next-of-kin of the deceased does not consent to a conventional autopsy.

DNA degradation and genetic analysis of empty puparia: Genetic identification limits in forensic entomology

2009-12-25

Abstract: Puparial cases are common remnants of necrophagous flies in crime investigations. They usually represent the longest developmental time and, therefore, they can be very useful for the estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI). However, before any PMI estimate, it is crucial to identify the species of fly eclosed from each puparium associated with the corpse. Morphological characteristics of the puparium are often distinctive enough to permit a species identification. But, even an accurate morphological analysis of empty puparia cannot discriminate among different species of closely related flies. Furthermore, morphological identification may be impossible if the fly puparia are poorly preserved or in fragments. This study explores the applicability of biomolecular techniques on empty puparia and their fragments for identification purposes. A total of 63 empty puparia of necrophagous Diptera resulting from forensic casework were examined. Samples were divided into three groups according to size, type and time of eclosion in order to verify whether the physical characteristics and puparia weathering can influence the amount of DNA extraction. The results suggest that a reliable genetic identification of forensically important flies may also be performed from empty puparia and/or their fragments. However, DNA degradation can deeply compromise the genetic analysis since the older the fly puparia, the smaller are the amplified fragments.

Forensic handwriting examiners’ opinions on the process of production of disguised and simulated signatures

Carolyne Bird, Bryan Found, Kaye Ballantyne, Doug Rogers — 2010-01-11

Abstract: Large-scale blind testing of forensic handwriting examiners (FHEs) has shown that authorship opinions on disguised and simulated signatures attract higher misleading and inconclusive rates than genuine signatures do. To test whether this is due to the failure of FHEs to detect the indicators of disguise/simulation behaviours we examined their opinions regarding the ‘process of production’ (which in this case was a choice between written naturally or written using a disguise/simulation strategy) of the questioned disguised and simulated signatures in blinded skill testing trials. The relationship between their process opinions and authorship opinions is then assessed. It was found that the majority of the inconclusive authorship opinions for both disguised and simulated signatures had a correct process opinion (707 of 1241, 57.0% for disguised; 3838 of 4368, 87.9% for simulated), with only 7.3% (90 of 1241) of the disguised and 0.85% (37 of 4368) of the simulated signatures exhibiting incorrect process opinions. For the total misleading authorship opinions relating to disguised signatures, the majority of the process opinions were correct (167 of 241, 69.3%) indicating that a disguise/simulation process was detected, but misinterpreted as being by another writer. These results show the usefulness of FHEs offering a first stage simulation/disguise process opinion without going on to form an opinion on authorship, as the support for the proposition that a signature is something other than genuine may be, in itself, of strong evidential value.

Cathinone preservation in khat evidence via drying

John S. Chappell, Marsha M. Lee — 2009-12-28

Abstract: A primary concern with the forensic analysis of the khat plant (Catha edulis) has been the need to preserve the principle psychoactive component, cathinone, which converts to the less-active substance, cathine, after harvesting. The loss of cathinone has serious legal implications since it is a Schedule I controlled substance under federal regulations in the United States, while cathine is Schedule IV. A common misconception is that cathinone is highly unstable once the plant is harvested, and may be undetectable upon drying and prolonged storage. However, drying the plant material will preserve cathinone. Numerous seizures of a dried form of khat (referred to as “graba” in the United States) have been made in recent years, suggesting that drying the plant material is a viable approach to preserve khat evidence for both storage and reanalysis. A qualitative and quantitative study of the composition of khat samples seized as dried plant material has found the khat alkaloids to be relatively stable for a monitored period of 3 years, and cathinone has remained identifiable while stored at room temperature for over 10 years. Studies of green khat (received moist) have also determined that drying the moist leaves at either room temperature or by the application of heat are suitable methods to preserve cathinone in the dried material. These findings demonstrate that cathinone persists in dried khat for a time frame of several years, and simple drying techniques are an effective means to preserve seized khat evidence for long-term storage.

Controlled research utilizing a basic all-metal detector in the search for buried firearms and miscellaneous weapons

Mary M. Rezos, John J. Schultz, Ronald A. Murdock, Stephen A. Smith — 2009-12-28

Abstract: Incorporating geophysical technologies into forensic investigations has become a growing practice. Oftentimes, forensic professionals rely on basic metal detectors to assist their efforts during metallic weapons searches. This has created a need for controlled research in the area of weapons searches, specifically to formulate guidelines for geophysical methods that may be appropriate for locating weapons that have been discarded or buried by criminals attempting to conceal their involvement in a crime. Controlled research allows not only for testing of geophysical equipment, but also for updating search methodologies.This research project was designed to demonstrate the utility of an all-metal detector for locating a buried metallic weapon through detecting and identifying specific types of buried metal targets. Controlled testing of 32 buried targets which represented a variety of sizes and metallic compositions included 16 decommissioned street-level firearms, 6 pieces of assorted scrap metals, and 10 blunt or bladed weapons. While all forensic targets included in the project were detected with the basic all-metal detector, the size of the weapon and surface area were the two variables that affected maximum depth of detection, particularly with the firearm sample. For example, when using a High setting the largest firearms were detected at a maximum depth of 55cm, but the majority of the remaining targets were only detected at a maximum depth of 40cm or less. Overall, the all-metal detector proved to be a very good general purpose metal detector best suited for detecting metallic items at shallow depths.

Application of simple Bayesian statistics to a sample database for source correspondence

Rajesh Kumar — 2009-12-25

Abstract: Bayesian statistics was applied to a small sample database of the tensile properties of five different brands of writing paper which were perceptibly similar. The measured parameters in the database were found to overlap for the five brands. This posed a limitation to the application of the classical approach for “match” or “no match”. It was found that using Bayesian statistics for source correspondence, a mere 2–3 measurements corresponding to a particular brand raised the probabilities associated with that brand to as high a 72% and eliminating a couple of brands.

Detection of piperonal emitted from polymer controlled odor mimic permeation systems utilizing Canis familiaris and solid phase microextraction–ion mobility spectrometry

Michael S. Macias, Patricia Guerra-Diaz, José R. Almirall, Kenneth G. Furton — 2009-12-31

Abstract: Currently, in the field of odor detection, there is generally a wider variation in limit of detections (LODs) for canines than instruments. The study presented in this paper introduces an improved protocol for the creation of controlled odor mimic permeation system (COMPS) devices for use as standards in canine training and discusses the canine detection thresholds of piperonal, a starting material for the illicit drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), when exposed to these devices. Additionally, this paper describes the first-ever reported direct comparison of solid phase microextraction–ion mobility spectrometry (SPME–IMS) to canine detection for the MDMA odorant, piperonal. The research presented shows the reliability of COMPS devices as low cost field calibrants providing a wide range of odorant concentrations for biological and instrumental detectors. The canine LOD of piperonal emanating from the 100ngs−1 COMPS was found to be 1ng as compared to the SPME–IMS LOD of piperonal in a static, closed system at 2ng, with a linear dynamic range from 2ng to 11ng. The utilization of the COMPS devices would allow for training that will reduce the detection variability between canines and maintain improved consistency for training purposes. Since both SPME and IMS are field portable technologies, it is expected that this coupled method will be useful as a complement to canine detection for the field detection of MDMA.

Cool-weather activity of the forensically important hairy maggot blow fly Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) on carrion in Upstate South Carolina, United States

Jonathan A. Cammack, Mark P. Nelder — 2009-12-30

Abstract: The hairy maggot blow fly Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) has expanded its range in the United States since its introduction into Texas (ca. 1980) and has been collected in 15 states. We investigated the bionomics of immature and adult C. rufifacies collected from carcasses of a raccoon Procyon lotor (Linnaeus) and white-tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus Zimmerman in Upstate South Carolina during November 2007, and used these insects to estimate the minimum period of insect activity. Puparia of C. rufifacies were collected from deer carrion; 28% were parasitized by Nasonia vitripennis (Walker) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae). The mean daily ambient temperature during this study was 11.4±1.02°C, representing the lowest recorded mean temperature for adult activity of C. rufifacies; adults of C. rufifacies were observed flying among the carcasses at 9.0°C. Although C. rufifacies is considered a warm-weather blow fly, researchers should be aware of its activity at suboptimal conditions, behavior that might aid its expansion into more northern areas.

Time-dependent organic changes of intravenous thrombi in stasis-induced deep vein thrombosis model and its application to thrombus age determination

Mizuho Nosaka, Yuko Ishida, Akihiko Kimura, Toshikazu Kondo — 2010-01-08

Abstract: Using histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques, we examined the intrathrombotic collagen contents and the appearance of hemosiderin-positive cells, neovessels, and myofibroblasts in a stasis-induced venous thrombosis model. The intrathrombotic collagen deposition area occupied about 20% at 5 days, and exceeded 80% at 21 days after ligation of the inferior vena cava (IVC). Hemosiderin-positive cells in the thrombus first appeared at 3 days in only one of the five samples, and positive cells were constantly detected in all thrombi at 5 days or later. CD31-positive neovessels in the thrombus first appeared at 5 days in one of five samples and were detected in all samples after 10 days. At 7 days, αSMA-positive myofibroblasts at the periphery of the thrombus first appeared in three of five samples, and were detected and enhanced time-dependently in all samples after 10 days. These observations demonstrated that these markers would be applicable for thrombus age determination.

Digital forensic osteology: Morphological sexing of skeletal remains using volume-rendered cranial CT scans

Frank Ramsthaler, Mattias Kettner, Axel Gehl, M.A. Verhoff — 2010-01-14

Abstract: Because of the increasing lack of recent bone collections, ethical issues concerning maceration procedures, and progress in radiological imaging techniques, computed tomography (CT) scans offer an alternative to traditional anthropological bone collection. The present study examined volume-rendered cranial CT (CCT) scans from 50 crania to morphologically evaluate sex characteristics. CCT scans were performed and scored by two teams (Teams A and B) of two examiners each (2×50=100 examinations) to evaluate the occurrence and/or absence of morphological traits. Altogether, 60 of 100 crania (31 Team A+29 Team B) crania were determined to be male, and 40 (19 Team A+21 Team B) were determined to be female when using the scoring system adapted from Knussmann. These results imply a sex determination accuracy rate of 96%. Only in one case was recalculation of weighting factors necessary to determine one additional correct classification. As a single parameter, arcus superciliaris evaluation permitted the most accurate sex determination (female, 84.2%; male, 85.5%). No significant difference in accuracy rates was observed between the two sexes (p<0.65, χ2=0.39, Fisher's exact test). Interobserver bias rates for both teams were very low (κ=0.83). The present study shows that volume-rendered CCT images are suitable for the collection of data concerning morphologic sex determination of skulls. Thus, this method may be helpful in both actual forensic casework and the systematic reevaluation and improvement of classical anthropological methods and their adaptation to changing populations.

Can the prevalence of high blood drug concentrations in a population be estimated by analysing oral fluid? A study of tetrahydrocannabinol and amphetamine

Hallvard Gjerde, Alain Verstraete — 2010-01-04

Abstract: Aim: To study several methods for estimating the prevalence of high blood concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol and amphetamine in a population of drug users by analysing oral fluid (saliva).Methods: Five methods were compared, including simple calculation procedures dividing the drug concentrations in oral fluid by average or median oral fluid/blood (OF/B) drug concentration ratios or linear regression coefficients, and more complex Monte Carlo simulations. Populations of 311 cannabis users and 197 amphetamine users from the Rosita-2 Project were studied.Results: The results of a feasibility study suggested that the Monte Carlo simulations might give better accuracies than simple calculations if good data on OF/B ratios is available. If using only 20 randomly selected OF/B ratios, a Monte Carlo simulation gave the best accuracy but not the best precision. Dividing by the OF/B regression coefficient gave acceptable accuracy and precision, and was therefore the best method. None of the methods gave acceptable accuracy if the prevalence of high blood drug concentrations was less than 15%.Conclusion: Dividing the drug concentration in oral fluid by the OF/B regression coefficient gave an acceptable estimation of high blood drug concentrations in a population, and may therefore give valuable additional information on possible drug impairment, e.g. in roadside surveys of drugs and driving. If good data on the distribution of OF/B ratios are available, a Monte Carlo simulation may give better accuracy.

Forensic analysis of hallucinogenic mushrooms and khat (Catha edulisForsk) using cation-exchange liquid chromatography

Tim Laussmann, Sigrid Meier-Giebing — 2010-01-04

Abstract: Hallucinogenic mushrooms (e.g. Psilocybe and Panaeolus species) as well as leaves and young shoots of the khat tree (Catha edulis Forsk) are illicit drugs in many countries. The exact concentration of the hallucinogenic alkaloids psilocin and psilocybin in mushrooms and the sympathomimetic alkaloids cathinone and cathine in khat is usually essential for jurisdiction. Facing an increasing number of mushroom and khat seizures by German customs authorities, a convenient comprehensive quantitative HPLC method based on cation-exchange liquid chromatography for these rather “exotic” drugs has been developed which avoids time-consuming multi-step sample preparation or chemical derivatization procedures. Using this method a number of different hallucinogenic fungi species and products that are mainly distributed via the internet have been analysed (dried and fresh Psilocybe cubensis Singer as well as P. cubensis collected from “grow boxes”, Panaeolus cyanescens Berkeley and Broome and so-called “philosopher stones” (sclerotia of Psilocybe species)). Highest total amounts of psilocin have been detected in dried P. cyanescens reaching up to 3.00±0.24mg per 100mg. The distribution of khat alkaloids in different parts of the khat shoots has been studied. High concentrations of cathinone have not only been detected in leaves but also in green parts and barks of stalks. Additionally, the sample treatment for fresh mushroom and khat samples has been optimised. Highest amounts of alkaloids were found when fresh material was freeze-dried.

Pilot study of facial soft tissue thickness differences among three skeletal classes in Japanese females

2009-11-27

Abstract: Facial reconstruction is a technique used in forensic anthropology to estimate the appearance of the antemortem face from unknown human skeletal remains. This requires accurate skull assessment (for variables such as age, sex, and race) and soft tissue thickness data. However, the skull can provide only limited information, and further data are needed to reconstruct the face. The authors herein obtained further information from the skull in order to reconstruct the face more accurately. Skulls can be classified into three facial types on the basis of orthodontic skeletal classes (namely, straight facial profile, type I, convex facial profile, type II, and concave facial profile, type III). This concept was applied to facial tissue measurement and soft tissue depth was compared in each skeletal class in a Japanese female population. Differences of soft tissue depth between skeletal classes were observed, and this information may enable more accurate reconstruction than sex-specific depth alone.

The utility of dental patterns in forensic dentistry

Stella Martin-de-las-Heras, Aurora Valenzuela, Juan de Dios Luna, Manuel Bravo — 2009-12-07

Abstract: The comparison of antemortem and postmortem dental patterns, which reflect a combination of dental states, can be quantified for human identification. However, the utility derived from the uniqueness of these patterns is limited by variations in oral health status related to population, age, and birth cohort. We analyzed dental pattern diversity from reference datasets that documented differences in oral health. Our analysis was based on full dentitions and partial dentitions available in forensic situations. To analyze the diversity of dental patterns, data from 3166 adults were extracted from the last 3 contemporary Spanish National Oral Health Examination Surveys, corresponding to the years 1993, 2000, and 2005. Each survey comprised 2 adult age groups (35–44 years and 65–74 years), therefore six datasets were available for our study. Our six samples showed substantial variability in oral health status (caries history) and dental code distribution, not only between age groups within the same survey year, but also between different survey years for the same age group. To test the overall diversity of dental patterns in each datasets, pairwise comparisons were performed and the total number of pattern matches was generated. We calculated total and conditional diversity (excluding individuals in whom all teeth were classified as unrestored or missing) for each forensic situation. To test the homogeneity of diversity estimates among the six datasets we used a random effect model that requires a parameter estimate together with its standard error. Total diversity values were low and heterogeneous. However, conditional diversities were high and homogeneous, which allowed all data to be pooled into a single database. Once data were pooled, high combined diversity values (above 0.99) were obtained for each forensic situation. This indicates their usefulness for forensic purposes. We conclude that the conditional diversity value derived from dental patterns is a potentially valuable tool with broad applicability for human identification.

Unidentified bodies and human remains: An Italian glimpse through a European problem

C. Cattaneo, D. Porta, D. De Angelis, D. Gibelli, P. Poppa, M. Grandi — 2009-12-14

Abstract: The identification of cadavers (the main activity of forensic odontologists and anthropologists) is a crucial issue in forensic pathology, but the official entity of this problem is still poorly known in most countries, apart from a few American reports. In this article the authors present a descriptive study of unidentified decedents over a 14-year period (1995–2008) in Milan. The number of cadavers or human remains arriving at the morgue with no identity amounts to 454 – 3.1% of all autopsies at the Institute of Legal Medicine, with a mean of 32 unidentified subjects every year; 62% reached a positive identification in a period of time ranging from a few days to 10 years. 17% on an average remain unidentified. Most identification processes involved forensic odontology and anthropology. This study aims at revealing the problem and hopefully may provide some food for thought for forensic pathologists, anthropologists and odontologists so that they may focus on this issue and on possible solutions in their countries.

Comparison of adipocere formation in four soil types of the Porto (Portugal) district

2009-12-14

Abstract: Four typical soils of the Porto (Portugal) area were characterized and used to study the decomposition of buried pieces of pork meat under controlled laboratory experiments (an 8 month experiment with a relatively high soil moisture and a 1 month experiment with relatively low soil moisture). The soils types were: organic, sandy, gravel and clay-gravel soils. Soils were characterized for their grain size distribution, pH, water content, organic matter percentage and mineral composition. Four free fatty acids (myristic, palmitic, oleic and stearic) were analysed (using a methodology based on an extraction step followed by a derivatization reaction and high performance liquid chromatography analysis) in soil samples as a sign of adipocere formation. The direct sensorial analysis of the buried sample residues and the free fatty acids profiles of the sampled soils showed that sandy and clay-gravel soils (in a low moisture environment) slowed the normal decomposition process promoting the formation of adipocere. Nevertheless, this apparent soil effect is indirect and a consequence of the different water retention and permeability of the soils. Thus, the water content of the soils is a crucial factor for adipocere formation.

Hypothermia in a combined intoxication with doxepin and moclobemide in an adolescent

2010-01-14

Abstract: Objective: Intoxication with antidepressants, frequently encountered in pediatric emergency medicine, can often lead to life threatening situations. While hyperthermia, hypertonicity and rigidity are symptoms indicative of a serotonin syndrome triggered by an intoxication with serotonin reuptake inhibitors or monoamine oxidase inhibitors, cardiotoxicity, coma and ECG changes are typical of an intoxication with tricyclic antidepressants.Case report: Hypothermia (instead of the expected hyperthermia) is described for the first time as a persistent symptom during the course of a combined moclobemide–doxepin intoxication in an attempted suicide of a 16-year-old adolescent.Discussion: The administration of serotonin reuptake inhibitors alone or in combination with other medication which increases the level of 5-hydroxytryptamine, i.e. serotonin, in the synaptic cleft mainly leads to hyperthermia. According to a recent study, however, the application of a selective 5-HT1a agonist to transgenic mice with a prominent overexpression of the 5-HT1a receptor lead to immobility and hypothermia. These findings might help to explain the hypothermia observed in the case of the intoxicated 16-year-old.Conclusion: Intoxication with antidepressants should not be excluded a priori in a hypothermic patient who displays other clinical signs of the said intoxication.

First records of two species of Oriental scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae) from forensic cases

Kumara Thevan, R. Henry L. Henry Disney, Abu Hassan Ahmad — 2009-11-30

Abstract: In Penang, Malaysia, the Oriental and Afrotropical Megaselia curtineura (Brues) and the Oriental and Japanese Megaselia spiracularis Schmitz are reported from human corpses, these being the first reports of these species in such forensic cases.

An injury subjacent to lac ornament in a case of lightning

Ashesh Gunwantrao Wankhede, Vinod R. Agrawal, Dinesh R. Sariya — 2009-11-30

Abstract: This is a report of a case in which, for the first time, direct lightning strike had caused burn injuries associated with internal soft-tissue bruising and visceral injury subjacent to lac jewellery on the chest. The burn injury depicted a symmetrical pattern, which was almost 5 times larger than the size of the jewellery. Surprisingly, there was bruising of soft tissue beneath the burn, associated with extravasation of blood in anterior mediastinum, contusion of anterior border of lungs, contusion to heart and rent by burn to the blouse of the victim over the front and back, all in one line, showing very unusual injury of lightning strike.

Computed tomography (CT) virtual autopsy and classical autopsy discrepancies: Radiologist's error or a demonstration of post-mortem multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) limitation?

2009-12-02

Abstract: Modern imaging technologies, such as computed tomography (CT) techniques, represent a great challenge in forensic pathology. The field of forensics has experienced a rapid increase in the use of these new techniques to support investigations on critical cases, as indicated by the implementation of CT scanning by different forensic institutions worldwide. Advances in CT imaging techniques over the past few decades have finally led some authors to propose that virtual autopsy, a radiological method applied to post-mortem analysis, is a reliable alternative to traditional autopsy, at least in certain cases. The authors investigate the occurrence and the causes of errors and mistakes in diagnostic imaging applied to virtual autopsy. A case of suicide by a gunshot wound was submitted to full-body CT scanning before autopsy. We compared the first examination of sectional images with the autopsy findings and found a preliminary misdiagnosis in detecting a peritoneal lesion by gunshot wound that was due to radiologist's error. Then we discuss a new emerging issue related to the risk of diagnostic failure in virtual autopsy due to radiologist's error that is similar to what occurs in clinical radiology practice.

Death due to ingestion of nicotine-containing solution: Case report and review of the literature

2009-12-02

Abstract: Nicotine, a lipid-soluble alkaloid obtained from the dried leaves of Nicotiana, is most frequently encountered in tobacco products for smoking, chewing or sniffing as well as in a limited number of pesticides. Though nicotine is one of the most toxic drugs of abuse, it has rarely led to fatalities. Sudden death can be caused by cardiovascular arrest, respiratory muscle paralysis and/or central respiratory failure. A 42-year-old man was found dead by his wife. He was lying on the floor, next to a box containing many empty bottles of beer and vodka. Some labeled chemical bottles found at the scene contained various substances, including nicotine and brucine. Gross examination of the organs at autopsy revealed no specific findings. The toxicological examination failed to disclose any lethal toxic agents other than a high concentration of nicotine and its primary metabolite cotinine in femoral venous blood (2.2μg/mL). Blood alcohol was determined to be 2.1g/L in femoral venous blood. Only a paucity of fatal cases of nicotine poisoning has been reported in the literature so far.

Corrigendum to “Lactate and pH evaluation in exhausted humans with prolonged TASER X26 exposure or continued exertion” [Forensic Sci. Int. 190 (2009) 80–86]

2009-12-18

The authors regret there was a typographical error in Table 3 of the above article. The Group 3 median lactate value at 14min should be 14.5mmol/L and not 19.5mmol/L as shown.