1
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Englisch CN, Alrefai R, Lesan CM, Seitz B, Tschernig T. Postmortem sympathomimetic iris excitability. Ann Anat 2024; 254:152240. [PMID: 38460860 DOI: 10.1016/j.aanat.2024.152240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A reliable estimation of time since death can be important for the law enforcement authorities. The compound method encompassing supravital reactions such as the chemical excitability of the iris can be used to further narrow intervals estimated by temperature-based methods. Postmortem iris excitability was mostly assessed by parasympatholytic or parasympathomimetic substances. Little is known regarding sympathomimetic agents. The present study aims to describe the postmortem iris excitability using the sympathomimetic drug phenylephrine. METHODS Cadavers were included after body donors gave written informed consent during lifetime. Exclusion criteria were known eye disease, or a postmortem interval exceeding 26 hours. A pupillometer with a minimum measurement range of 0.5 mm was used to determine the horizontal pupil diameter before and 20 minutes after the application of phenylephrine. Increase in pupil diameter was labeled as positive reaction, unchanged pupil diameter was labeled as negative reaction, and decrease in pupil diameter was labeled as paradox reaction. RESULTS 30 eyes from 16 cadavers (median age = 80.0; 9 males, 7 females) were examined. Initial pupil size was in median 3.5 mm (interquartile range [IQR]: 3.0-4.5 mm) and progressed to 4.0 mm (IQR: 3.5-5.0 mm) 20 minutes after drug instillation. The achieved pupil diameter difference comprised in median 0.5 mm (IQR: 0.0-1.0 mm). A positive reaction was observed in 21 cases. Negative reactions were observed in 5 cases and paradox reactions in 4 cases. Overall, there was a statistically significant difference in diameter between the initial and the reactive pupil (P = 0.0002). CONCLUSION Although relatively rarely used, sympathomimetic drugs seem to be eligible for chemical postmortem iris excitability. Currently, assessment of postmortem iris excitability usually only involves parasympatholytic and parasympathomimetic agents. The findings of the present study give a hint that the application of a third agent with a sympathomimetic mechanism of action could provide additional information. Further studies assessing such a triple approach in the compound method in comparison with the current gold standard for estimation of time since death are mandatory to ensure reliable results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Colya N Englisch
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany; Department of Experimental Ophthalmology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany
| | - Reem Alrefai
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany
| | - Cristina Martin Lesan
- Department for Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany
| | - Berthold Seitz
- Department for Ophthalmology, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany
| | - Thomas Tschernig
- Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Saarland University, Homburg, Saar 66421, Germany.
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2
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Sauer P, Lux C, Gruber H, Verhoff MA, Ramsthaler F, Kern N, Kettner M. Detrimental effects of scene manipulations on temperature-based time since death estimation. Int J Legal Med 2024:10.1007/s00414-024-03252-w. [PMID: 38772947 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03252-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
In forensic casework, time since death (TSD) estimations may play a crucial role to establish chains of events as well as for alibi assessment in homicide cases. Classical TSD estimation relies on reasonably stable ambient temperatures and a correct documentation of ambient and rectal temperatures. This constancy is in some cases disturbed by post-discovery alterations of the crime scene, e.g. opening a window. In order to develop a better understanding of this alteration-based detrimental impact on TSD estimation as well as to identify feasible recommendations for casework, the present pilot study examined ambient temperature effects of different window opening scenarios regarding various time intervals (5 to 360 min) in a furnished 10 m2 apartment during winter. In this context, in addition to the ambient temperature and thus the cooling rate of the room, re-approximation to initial room temperature, potential influences on a nomogram-based time since death estimation using a fictitious case, and the impact of the measurement height above the ground were investigated. Our data indicate a significant reduction of the mean temperature decrease rate after 15 min regardless of the remaining opening time and a correlation with the size of the respective opening surfaces. Re-approximation to initial room temperatures was observed with up to three times longer than the initial opening time. There was no evidence of a substantial advantage of temperature measurements above the level of the corpse (> 0.1 m). The limitations of the study and its applicability for forensic casework are critically reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Sauer
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Constantin Lux
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Hannes Gruber
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Marcel A Verhoff
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Frank Ramsthaler
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Homburg/Saar, University of Saarland, Geb. 49.1, Kirrberger Straße, 66421, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Natascha Kern
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany
| | - Mattias Kettner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital of Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
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3
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Procopio N, Bonicelli A. From flesh to bones: Multi-omics approaches in forensic science. Proteomics 2024:e2200335. [PMID: 38683823 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.202200335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Recent advancements in omics techniques have revolutionised the study of biological systems, enabling the generation of high-throughput biomolecular data. These innovations have found diverse applications, ranging from personalised medicine to forensic sciences. While the investigation of multiple aspects of cells, tissues or entire organisms through the integration of various omics approaches (such as genomics, epigenomics, metagenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics) has already been established in fields like biomedicine and cancer biology, its full potential in forensic sciences remains only partially explored. In this review, we have presented a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art analytical platforms employed in omics research, with specific emphasis on their application in the forensic field for the identification of the cadaver and the cause of death. Moreover, we have conducted a critical analysis of the computational integration of omics approaches, and highlighted the latest advancements in employing multi-omics techniques for forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Procopio
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Experimental Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
| | - Andrea Bonicelli
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Experimental Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, University of Central Lancashire, Preston, UK
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4
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Stigter H, Krap T, Duijst WLJM. Estimation of the post-mortem interval; added value of mechanical excitability of human skeletal muscle. J Forensic Leg Med 2024; 103:102664. [PMID: 38547820 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2024.102664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI) is mainly based on the state of body cooling, post-mortem lividity (livor mortis) and post-mortem muscle stiffness (rigor mortis). However, the time span of development of these post-mortem phenomena are influenced by a variety of factors concerning the body of the deceased and the environment in which the body is found. Subsequently, this leads to a substantial spread in upper and lower limits of PMI based on determination of the state of these phenomena. Moreover, interpretation of post-mortem phenomena like lividity, rigor and interpretation of the correction factor for Henssge's nomogram is subjective. For this reason, PMI estimations are often broad, possibly too broad to be helpful for answering questions which are relevant for the criminal investigation. Therefore, combining the outcome of different methods for estimating the PMI, the so-called compound method, is recommended. Supravital muscle reaction by mechanical stimulation of skeletal muscle is a less known aspect of the compound method. Here we present a series of cases series in which supravital muscle reaction contributed to a more precise estimation of the PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Stigter
- Maastricht University, Faculty of Law and Criminology, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - T Krap
- Maastricht University, Faculty of Law and Criminology, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - W L J M Duijst
- Maastricht University, Faculty of Law and Criminology, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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5
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Stigter H, Krap T, Gelderman T, Dijkhuizen L, Duijst W. Technical note: Practical application of post-mortem mechanical stimulation of skeletal muscle, a field study. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:55-60. [PMID: 35962850 PMCID: PMC10771997 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02873-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI) is a crucial aspect in crime scene investigation. PMI is defined as the time between the moment of death and the moment of finding the dead body. A combination of methods for estimating the PMI in forensic casework is internationally mostly used. Supravital muscle reaction (SMR) is one of those methods. SMR is an idiomuscular contraction and can be provoked by mechanical stimulation. OBJECTIVES A field study was carried out with the aim to investigate whether a reflex hammer can be used as tool for triggering an idiomuscular contraction and, furthermore, to determine if a learning period has to be taken into account by a forensic physician for appropriate application of a reflex hammer to trigger SMR. METHODS From January 2017 to January 2022, four forensic physicians used this SMR by mechanically stimulating the musculus brachioradialis and musculus biceps brachii. In total, 332 cases were included with a PMI less than 24 h. The cases were divided in chronological clusters of 20 cases. The ratio of the number of positive SMR versus the total number stimulations per forensic physician was used as a measure of accuracy of a reflex hammer for triggering SMR. The distribution of the data was analyzed by comparing the clusters in chronological order to assess whether a learning curve applies. RESULTS In 55.7%, a muscle reaction could be provoked by mechanical stimulation. Comparable outcome of SMR between the participating physicians was observed after 40 stimulations. CONCLUSION A reflex hammer is usable for provoking SMR. A learning period has to be taken in to account during the first forty cases per forensic physician.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Stigter
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - T Krap
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - T Gelderman
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - L Dijkhuizen
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Wljm Duijst
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Ars Cogniscendi Foundation for Legal and Forensic Medicine, Wezep, The Netherlands
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6
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Abraham J, Wei T, Cheng L. Validation of a new method of providing case-specific time-of-death estimates using cadaver temperatures. J Forensic Sci 2023; 68:884-897. [PMID: 36807200 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
The near ubiquitous presence of numerical simulation has made case-specific calculations of body temperatures following death possible so that accurate calculations of body temperatures can provide valuable information for estimating the time of death and can aid in forensic investigations. Here, a computational approach is described that has been validated against multiple, independent, and experimental investigations. The approach only requires one subjective input parameter (the heat transfer coefficient). A simple algorithm serves as a guidepost to the selection of this parameter. The algorithm incorporates clothing and the space in which the body is housed. Heat transfer coefficients that range from h = 2 W/m2 /°C for bodies that are heavily clothed to h = 9 W/m2 /°C for bodies that are nude (in air). The method also requires setting of ambient temperature conditions (ambient temperature)-however, that input is often available. The paucity of inputs makes this technique remarkably easy to employ. The new method is also able to calculate cadaver cooling rates for situations where the cadaver is in a timewise or spatially changing thermal environment (diurnal temperature variations, bodies partially submerged in water, changes to weather, insolation, etc.). Results from the present calculations are compared with a large body of measurements from the literature; it was found that the predictions and measurements were in excellent agreement, regardless of the ambient temperature conditions and the nature of the clothing of the body. This new calculation approach can be used with reasonable accuracy for determining cadaver cooling and time since death.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Abraham
- School of Engineering, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Tie Wei
- New Mexico Tech, Socorro, New Mexico, USA
| | - Lijing Cheng
- Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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7
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Scheidemann P, Schwender H, Ritz-Timme S, Kindgen-Milles D, Hartung B. Core body temperatures during final stages of life-an evaluation of data from in-hospital decedents. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:1341-1350. [PMID: 35689684 PMCID: PMC9375749 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02837-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Temperature-based methods are widely accepted as the gold standard for death time estimation. In the absence of any other information, the nomogram method generally assumes that a person died with a core body temperature of approximately 37.2 °C. Nevertheless, several external and internal factors may alter the body temperature during agony. A retrospective medical record analysis was carried out on in-hospital death cases from two consecutive years of surgical intensive care units to determine the effects of factors influencing the core body temperature at the point of death. Data from 103 case files were included in the statistical data evaluation. The body temperature fluctuated between and within individuals over time. No clear correlation to certain death groups was observed. Even primary cardiac deaths showed broad intervals of temperatures at the point of death. Men seem to die with higher body temperatures than women. The presented data highlight potential biases for death time estimations when generally assuming a core body temperature of 37.2 °C. In conclusion, the estimation of the time of death should include various methods, including a non-temperature-dependent method. Any uncertainties regarding the body temperature at point of death need to be resolved (e.g. by identifying fever constellations) and elucidated if elimination is not possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Scheidemann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Holger Schwender
- Mathematical Institute, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Stefanie Ritz-Timme
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | | | - Benno Hartung
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany.
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8
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Abraham J, Cheng L, Vallez L, Wei T. Using cadaver temperatures to estimate time of death: A case-specific numerical approach. J Forensic Sci 2022; 67:1049-1059. [PMID: 35112349 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A new approach is taken to estimating the time of death based on cadaver temperatures. The predictions are obtained by using numerical simulation that can be performed in a case-by-case scenario. Such a method enables time-of-death predictions for persons of any size and weight and in any thermal environment. An added advantage of the method is that it is not dependent upon an identification of the individual tissue layers and regions. Rather, a homogeneous tissue model is used, and the results that are obtained agree closely with the results of prior estimation methods and also with a prior published case study. Among the results presented in this study are various convective environments in both air and water (or a combination for a partially submerged body). The orientation of the body (face down vs face up) is investigated. It is found that when a body is face up, its body core temperature is more responsive to the ambient conditions, compared with a face-down orientation, at least for some partial-submergence depths. The method disclosed here can also be used to handle situations, where the environmental conditions are changing (such as diurnal temperature variations, variation in cloudy or sunny skies, etc.). Current nomogram methods are not able to handle such timewise variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Abraham
- School of Engineering, University of St. Thomas, St. Paul, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lijing Cheng
- Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | | | - Tie Wei
- New Mexico Tech, Socorro, New Mexico, USA
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9
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Gelderman T, Stigter E, Krap T, Amendt J, Duijst W. The time of death in Dutch court; using the Daubert criteria to evaluate methods to estimate the PMI used in court. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2021; 53:101970. [PMID: 34601451 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2021.101970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
When a capital crime is committed the post-mortem interval (PMI) is of particular importance in investigating a suspect's alibi in court. A forensic expert can use different methods to estimate the PMI. This research focuses on who is considered an expert in court and whether the methods used to estimate the PMI are reliable. In this study, the methods used to estimate the PMI and the experts consulted, available in Dutch jurisprudence, in the period 2010-2019 were investigated. Ninety-four judicial cases were included and multiple experts and methods of estimating the PMI were found. As part of this study, the methods that were used to estimate the PMI in court were subjected to the Daubert criteria. Of these methods, only the Henssge nomogram and entomological methods met the Daubert criteria. However, the methods are only useful when applied by the right forensic expert and in the right manner. Unfortunately, this was not always the case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Gelderman
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands.
| | - Erik Stigter
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Tristan Krap
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands; Amsterdam UMC, Location AMC, Department of Medical Biology, Section Anatomy, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Ars Cogniscendi Foundation for Legal and Forensic Medicine, Wezep, the Netherlands
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Wilma Duijst
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, the Netherlands; Ars Cogniscendi Foundation for Legal and Forensic Medicine, Wezep, the Netherlands
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10
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Potente S, Biermann FM. Anwendung der bedingten Wahrscheinlichkeitsverteilung auf die temperaturgestützte Todeszeitschätzung (CPD‑Methode). Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-021-00509-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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11
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Abd Elazeem EA, Ismail MME, Zaghloul HS, Selim AO, Gaballah MH, Oraby EEA, Gaballah IF. Estimation of postmortem interval in myocardial stab wounds and firearm injuries: An immunohistochemical comparative study using C5b-9 and cardiac Troponin C. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 324:110846. [PMID: 34062353 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estimation of postmortem interval (PMI) is a critical component of forensic death investigations. C5b-9 and cardiac Troponin C (cTnC) have the potential as markers for myocardial damage and can be suitable markers for determination of PMI. The aim of current study was to estimate different postmortem intervals using C5b-9 and cTnC detected by immunohistochemical technique in stab wounds and firearm injuries of the heart. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cardiac tissue samples from 70 forensic autopsy cadavers were obtained from XXXXXXX morgue, processed, for histopathological examination as well as immunohistochemical detection of C5b-9 and cTnC expression. The surface area of the positive C5b-9 and troponin C immune reactive cardiac tissue was measured morphometrically then the data were used to construct multiple regression equations for the estimation of PMI. RESULTS Histopathological autolytic changes occurred in all groups and increased in intensity with the increase in the PMI in stab wound and firearm injury groups. These findings were supported by immunohistochemical morphometric analysis. Constructed equations to estimate PMI were highly accurate especially those combining both markers. CONCLUSION C5b-9 and cTnC can be considered reliable indicators of myocardial damage and can be used either separately or in combination for accurate estimation of PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enas Awad Abd Elazeem
- General Department of Forensic Science and Criminology, Dubai Police, United Arab Emirates; Forensic Medicine Authority, Ministry of Justice, Egypt
| | - Manal Mohy Eldin Ismail
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Hala Said Zaghloul
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
| | - Assmaa O Selim
- Medical Histology & Cell Biology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | | | | | - Iman Fawzy Gaballah
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt
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12
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Hagita T, Shiotani S, Toyama N, Tominaga N, Miyazaki H, Ogasawara N. Positive cardiac gas on immediate postmortem CT indicates severe hyperammonemia and hypercapnia. FORENSIC IMAGING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fri.2020.200428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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13
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Wang J, Chen G, Qian H, Shang Q, Xiao J, Liang M, Gao B, Li T, Liu X. PP2A-C may be a promising candidate for postmortem interval estimation. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:837-844. [PMID: 33409557 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02466-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Determining the postmortem interval (PMI) is an important task in forensic pathology. However, a reliable means of determining the PMI between 24 h and approximately 7 days after death has not yet been established. A previous study demonstrated that subunit A of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A-A) is a promising candidate to estimate the PMI during the first 96 h. However, more detailed work is still needed to investigate PP2A's function in PMI estimation. PP2A is a serine/threonine phosphatase consisting of three subunits (PP2A-A, PP2A-B, and PP2A-C), and its activation is reflected by Tyr-307 phosphorylation of the catalytic subunit (P-PP2A-C). In this study, we speculated that the other two subunits of PP2A and the activation of PP2A may play different roles in estimating the PMI. For this purpose, mice were euthanized and stored at different temperatures (4, 15, and 25 °C). At each temperature, the musculus vastus lateralis was collected at different time points (0, 24, 48, and 96 h) to investigate the degradation of PP2A-B, PP2A-C, and P-PP2A-C (Tyr-307). Homocysteine (Hcy) was used to establish a hyperhomocysteinemia animal model to explore the effects of plasma Hcy on PMI estimation. The data showed not only that PP2A-C was more stable than PP2A-B, but also that it was not affected by homocysteine (Hcy). These characteristics make PP2A-C a promising candidate for short-term (24 h to 48 h) PMI estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Gang Chen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongyan Qian
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing Shang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Xiao
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liang
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Baoyao Gao
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China.,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China. .,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinshe Liu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Yanta Road W.76, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710061, People's Republic of China. .,The Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Forensic Science, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, People's Republic of China.
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14
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Noshy PA. Postmortem expression of apoptosis-related genes in the liver of mice and their use for estimation of the time of death. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:539-545. [PMID: 32914226 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02419-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE A major challenge in forensic medicine is to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI). Several approaches had been tried to determine the time of death, including physical and chemical changes. This study aims to explore the postmortem changes in the expression of apoptosis-related genes in the liver of mice and to use these changes for estimation of the PMI. METHODS Hepatic tissue was collected from sacrificed mice immediately after death (the control group) and at 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, and 24 hours after death. Four apoptosisrelated genes were selected as target genes, which are Caspase 3 (Casp3), B cell leukemia/ lymphoma 2 (Bcl2), BCL2-associated X protein (Bax), and Transformation related protein 53 (Trp53), and their relative expression was measured using quantitative PCR. miR-122 was used as a reference gene for normalization of the Ct (threshold cycle) values of the target genes. RESULTS The results revealed that the postmortem expression of Casp3 increased in a time-dependent manner; the expression of Bax increased from 3 to 18 hours followed by a decrease at 24 hours after death; the expression of Bcl2 decreased in a time-dependent manner after death; the expression of Trp53 increased from 3 to 6 hours and then started to decrease from 9 to 24 hours after death. CONCLUSION Based on the observed changes in the expression level of these genes, mathematical models were established to estimate the PMI. Further research is needed to investigate these markers and mathematical models in human tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Noshy
- Department of Toxicology and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt.
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15
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Zelentsova EA, Yanshole LV, Melnikov AD, Kudryavtsev IS, Novoselov VP, Tsentalovich YP. Post-mortem changes in metabolomic profiles of human serum, aqueous humor and vitreous humor. Metabolomics 2020; 16:80. [PMID: 32613532 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-020-01700-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Application of metabolomic methods to forensic studies may expand the limits of the post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation, and improve the accuracy of the estimation. To this end, it is important to determine which tissue is the most suitable for analysis, and which compounds are the most promising candidates for PMI estimation. OBJECTIVES This work is aimed at the comparison of human serum, aqueous humor (AH), and vitreous humor (VH) as perspective tissues for metabolomic-based PMI estimation, at the determination of most promising PMI biomarkers, and at the development of method of PMI estimation based on the measurement of concentrations of PMI biomarkers. METHODS Quantitative metabolomic profiling of samples of the human serum, AH, and VH taken at different PMIs has been performed with the use of NMR spectroscopy. RESULTS It is found that the metabolomic changes in anatomically isolated ocular fluids are slower and smoother than that in blood. A good positive time correlation (Pearson coefficient r > 0.5) was observed for several metabolites, including hypoxanthine, choline, creatine, betaine, glutamate, and glycine. A model for PMI estimation based on concentrations of several metabolites in AH and VH is proposed. CONCLUSIONS The obtained results demonstrate that the metabolomic analysis of AH and VH is more suitable for the PMI estimation than that of serum. The compounds with good positive time correlation can be considered as potential PMI biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina A Zelentsova
- International Tomography Center SB RAS, Institutskaya 3a, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
- Novosibirsk State University, Pirogova 2, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Lyudmila V Yanshole
- International Tomography Center SB RAS, Institutskaya 3a, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Arsenty D Melnikov
- International Tomography Center SB RAS, Institutskaya 3a, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090
| | - Ivan S Kudryavtsev
- Novosibirsk Regional Clinical Bureau of Forensic Medicine, Nemirovicha-Danchenko 134, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630087
| | - Vladimir P Novoselov
- Novosibirsk Regional Clinical Bureau of Forensic Medicine, Nemirovicha-Danchenko 134, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630087
| | - Yuri P Tsentalovich
- International Tomography Center SB RAS, Institutskaya 3a, Novosibirsk, Russia, 630090.
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16
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Pittner S, Bugelli V, Weitgasser K, Zissler A, Sanit S, Lutz L, Monticelli F, Campobasso CP, Steinbacher P, Amendt J. A field study to evaluate PMI estimation methods for advanced decomposition stages. Int J Legal Med 2020; 134:1361-1373. [PMID: 32248308 PMCID: PMC7295721 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02278-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) is one of the major tasks and a continuous challenge in forensic pathology. It is often an exclusion process of available methods, which ultimately can lead to an unsatisfactory outcome due to poor reliability. This problem is most acute in the late PMI, when decomposition proceeds and some methods (such as rigor, livor, and algor mortis) are no longer applicable. Several methods, such as forensic entomology, skeletal muscle protein degradation, and the study of body decomposition by application of a morphological scoring, are expected to provide further information; however, all have certain limitations and weaknesses. Availability of a tool-box of methods allows a case-specific selection of the most appropriate one(s), or eventually provides improvements in the overall accuracy and precision of the PMI estimation by merging and combining methods. To investigate practical (field) application, eventual interferences, and/or synergetic effects, as well as the robustness of these methods towards specific influencing factors, a field study was conducted, using eight pig cadavers of different body weights and physical coverage, left to decompose under natural conditions for 16 days. Morphological changes during decomposition were assessed using the total body score (TBS), muscle samples were collected to analyze protein degradation, and insect colonization was evaluated. The results reveal strengths and current limitations of all tested methods, as well as promising synergistic effects, and thus, provide a baseline for targeted future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Valentina Bugelli
- Department of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Molise, Campobasso, Italy
| | | | - Angela Zissler
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sangob Sanit
- Department of Parasitology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Lena Lutz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Fabio Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Carlo P Campobasso
- Department of Experimental Medicine, University L. Vanvitelli of Campania, Aversa, Italy
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Biosciences, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Goethe-University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
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17
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Zeitgrenzen nichttemperaturbasierter Faktoren der Komplexmethode zur forensischen Todeszeitdiagnostik. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-019-0330-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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18
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Peyron PA, Lehmann S, Delaby C, Baccino E, Hirtz C. Biochemical markers of time since death in cerebrospinal fluid: A first step towards "Forensomics". Crit Rev Clin Lab Sci 2019; 56:274-286. [PMID: 31088325 DOI: 10.1080/10408363.2019.1619158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The accurate estimation of the time of death is a challenge in forensic medicine, as the methods routinely used to assess the postmortem interval (PMI) are far from being precise. Over the past decades, biochemical methods have been implemented on postmortem samples to improve the precision of PMI estimation. Studies have focussed on the biochemical profiles of closed compartment body fluids, as they are preserved longer than blood after death and are thus subject to confined postmortem chemical changes. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) has been considered a suitable fluid to investigate these changes, as it is found in large amounts and is easy to sample. Moreover, the main molecules found in CSF have known reference values in living subjects, unlike most other body fluids. In this literature review, we focus on the panel of biomarkers that have been studied in CSF based on their potential of offering information on the time of death. The interest in these biomarkers for casework and the research perspectives in this field are discussed. Integrating data from different methods, including biochemistry, for better estimation of the time of death would represent a step forward in the forensic field, paving the way for an innovative approach that we suggest to call "Forensomics."
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre-Antoine Peyron
- a Department of Forensic Medicine , Montpellier University Hospital , Montpellier , France.,b Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Proteomics, Montpellier University Hospital, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy , Montpellier , France
| | - Sylvain Lehmann
- b Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Proteomics, Montpellier University Hospital, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy , Montpellier , France
| | - Constance Delaby
- b Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Proteomics, Montpellier University Hospital, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy , Montpellier , France
| | - Eric Baccino
- a Department of Forensic Medicine , Montpellier University Hospital , Montpellier , France
| | - Christophe Hirtz
- b Laboratory of Biochemistry and Clinical Proteomics, Montpellier University Hospital, Institute for Regenerative Medicine and Biotherapy , Montpellier , France
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19
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Salam HA, Shaat EA, Aziz MHA, MoneimSheta AA, Hussein HASM. Estimation of postmortem interval using thanatochemistry and postmortem changes. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- HodaFouad Abdel Salam
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical, Toxicology , Faculty of Medicine , Alexandria University , Egypt
| | - Eman Ahmed Shaat
- Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine , Alexandria University , Egypt
| | - Manal Hassan Abdel Aziz
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical, Toxicology , Faculty of Medicine , Alexandria University , Egypt
| | - Abeer Abdel MoneimSheta
- Forensic Medicine and Clinical, Toxicology , Faculty of Medicine , Alexandria University , Egypt
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20
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Cordeiro C, Ordóñez-Mayán L, Lendoiro E, Febrero-Bande M, Vieira DN, Muñoz-Barús JI. A reliable method for estimating the postmortem interval from the biochemistry of the vitreous humor, temperature and body weight. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 295:157-168. [PMID: 30611119 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 11/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The estimation of the time elapsed since death is of paramount importance in the field of forensic sciences and criminal investigation, owing, among other factors, to the possible legal repercussions. Over the past few years various formulae have been developed to calculate this interval using a combination of different statistical methods and the concentrations of substances found in the vitreous humor. Corrective factors, such as ambient temperature, cause of death or age, which can modify the concentration of these substances and therefore the estimation of the postmortem interval, have been incorporated into models. In this paper five simple and reliable models to estimate PMI based the on the analysis of potassium, hypoxanthine and urea in the vitreous humor are presented. Corrective factors, such as body weight, rectal temperature and ambient temperature, which can influence the estimation of this interval have been incorporated into the formulae. Finally, the R2 and the mean squared error have been calculated for each model in order to select the best of the five. A free software program which calculates the PMI from the model and parameters used is available from the authors. It provides quick and reliable results as well as the error committed and R2 for each case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cordeiro
- National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences - Centre Branch, Coimbra, Portugal; Department of Forensic Medicine, Ethics and Medical Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Portugal; CENCIFOR (Centre of Forensic Sciences) - Foundation for Science and Technology, Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Lucía Ordóñez-Mayán
- Department of Psychiatry, Radiology, Public Health, Nursing and Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Institute of Forensic Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Elena Lendoiro
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Manuel Febrero-Bande
- Department of Statistics, Mathematical Analysis and Optimization, University of Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
| | - Duarte Nuno Vieira
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Ethics and Medical Law, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Portugal.
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21
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Potente S, Kettner M, Ishikawa T. Time since death nomographs implementing the nomogram, body weight adjusted correction factors, metric and imperial measurements. Int J Legal Med 2018; 133:491-499. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-018-1928-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/29/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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22
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Zissler A, Ehrenfellner B, Foditsch EE, Monticelli FC, Pittner S. Does altered protein metabolism interfere with postmortem degradation analysis for PMI estimation? Int J Legal Med 2018; 132:1349-1356. [PMID: 29500611 PMCID: PMC6096570 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-018-1814-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
An accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is a central aspect in forensic routine. Recently, a novel approach based on the analysis of postmortem muscle protein degradation has been proposed. However, a number of questions remain to be answered until sensible application of this method to a broad variety of forensic cases is possible. To evaluate whether altered in vivo protein metabolism interferes with postmortem degradation patterns, we conducted a comparative study. We developed a standardized animal degradation model in rats, and collected additional muscle samples from animals recovering from muscle injury and from rats with developed disuse muscle atrophy after induced spinal cord injury. All samples were analyzed by SDS-PAGE and Western blot, labeling well-characterized muscle proteins. Tropomyosin was found to be stable throughout the investigated PMI and no alterations were detected in regenerating and atrophic muscles. In contrast, significant predictable postmortem changes occurred in desmin and vinculin protein band patterns. While no significant deviations from native patterns were detected in at-death samples of disuse muscle atrophy, interestingly, samples of rats recovering from muscle injury revealed additional desmin and vinculin degradation bands that did not occur in this form in any of the examined postmortem samples regardless of PMI. It remains to be investigated whether in vivo-altered metabolism influences postmortem degradation kinetics or if such muscle samples undergo postmortem degradation in a regular fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zissler
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - B Ehrenfellner
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - E E Foditsch
- Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - F C Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - S Pittner
- Department of Biosciences, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, Paris-Lodron University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria.
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23
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Fais P, Mazzotti MC, Teti G, Boscolo‐Berto R, Pelotti S, Falconi M. HIF1α protein and mRNA expression as a new marker for post mortem interval estimation in human gingival tissue. J Anat 2018; 232:1031-1037. [PMID: 29504141 PMCID: PMC5980163 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Estimating the post mortem interval (PMI) is still a crucial step in Forensic Pathology. Although several methods are available for assessing the PMI, a precise estimation is still quite unreliable and can be inaccurate. The present study aimed to investigate the immunohistochemical distribution and mRNA expression of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF-1α) in post mortem gingival tissues to establish a correlation between the presence of HIF-1α and the time since death, with the final goal of achieving a more accurate PMI estimation. Samples of gingival tissues were obtained from 10 cadavers at different PMIs (1-3 days, 4-5 days and 8-9 days), and were processed for immunohistochemistry and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The results showed a time-dependent correlation of HIF-1α protein and its mRNA with different times since death, which suggests that HIF-1α is a potential marker for PMI estimation. The results showed a high HIF-1α protein signal that was mainly localized in the stratum basale of the oral mucosa in samples collected at a short PMI (1-3 days). It gradually decreased in samples collected at a medium PMI (4-5 days), but it was not detected in samples collected at a long PMI (8-9 days). These results are in agreement with the mRNA data. These data indicate an interesting potential utility of Forensic Anatomy-based techniques, such as immunohistochemistry, as important complementary tools to be used in forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Fais
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesSection of Legal MedicineUniversity of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Maria Carla Mazzotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesSection of Legal MedicineUniversity of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Gabriella Teti
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor SciencesSection of AnatomyUniversity of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Rafael Boscolo‐Berto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular SciencesSection of Legal MedicineUniversity Hospital of PadovaPadovaItaly
| | - Susi Pelotti
- Department of Medical and Surgical SciencesSection of Legal MedicineUniversity of BolognaBolognaItaly
| | - Mirella Falconi
- Department of Biomedical and Neuromotor SciencesSection of AnatomyUniversity of BolognaBolognaItaly
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25
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Vom Rücken durch die Brust ins Auge – Ungewöhnlicher gemeinschaftlicher Suizid mittels einer Schusswaffe. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-018-0248-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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26
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Reijnen G, Buster M, Vos P, Reijnders U. External foam and the post-mortem period in freshwater drowning; results from a retrospective study in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. J Forensic Leg Med 2017; 52:1-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2017.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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27
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Pittner S, Ehrenfellner B, Zissler A, Racher V, Trutschnig W, Bathke AC, Sänger AM, Stoiber W, Steinbacher P, Monticelli FC. First application of a protein-based approach for time since death estimation. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:479-483. [PMID: 27770266 PMCID: PMC5591615 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1459-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/05/2016] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Awareness of postmortem degradation processes in a human body is fundamental to develop methods for forensic time since death estimation (TDE). Currently, applied approaches are all more or less limited to certain postmortem phases, or have restrictions on behalf of circumstances of death. Novel techniques, however, rarely exceed basic research phases due to various reasons. We report the first application of a novel method, based on decay of muscle proteins, in a recent case of murder-suicide, where other TDE methods failed to obtain data. We detected considerably different protein degradation profiles in both individuals involved and compared the data to our presently available database. We obtained statistical evidence for un-simultaneous death and therefore received valuable information to trace the progression of events based on protein degradation. Although we could not sensibly convert the data to respective times of death, this case highlights the potential for future application and elucidates the necessary further steps to develop a viable TDE method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Bianca Ehrenfellner
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Angela Zissler
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Victoria Racher
- Department of Mathematics, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Trutschnig
- Department of Mathematics, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Arne C Bathke
- Department of Mathematics, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra M Sänger
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Walter Stoiber
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabio C Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, University of Salzburg, Ignaz-Harrer-Straße 79, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
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28
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Crostack C, Sehner S, Raupach T, Anders S. Re-establishment of rigor mortis: evidence for a considerably longer post-mortem time span. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:1039-1042. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1558-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Accepted: 02/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Matuszewski S. A general approach for postmortem interval based on uniformly distributed and interconnected qualitative indicators. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:877-884. [PMID: 28054103 PMCID: PMC5388707 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1520-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
There are many qualitative indicators for postmortem interval (PMI) of human or animal cadavers. When such indicators are uniformly spaced over PMI, the resultant distribution may be very useful for the estimation of PMI. Existing methods of estimation rely on indicator persistence time that is, however, difficult to estimate because of its dependence on many interacting factors, of which forensic scientists are usually unaware in casework. In this article, an approach is developed for the estimation of PMI from qualitative markers in which indicator persistence time is not used. The method involves the estimation of an interval preceding appearance of a marker on cadaver called the pre-appearance interval (PAI). PMI is delineated by PAI for two consecutive markers: the one being recorded on the cadaver (defining lower PMI) and the other that is next along the PMI timeline but yet absent on the cadaver (defining upper PMI). The approach was calibrated for use with subsequent life stages of carrion insects and tested using results of pig cadaver experiments. Results demonstrate that the presence and absence of the subsequent developmental stages of carrion insects, coupled with the estimation of their PAI, gives a reliable and easily accessible knowledge of PMI in a forensic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Matuszewski
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Św. Marcin 90, 61-809, Poznań, Poland.
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Lv YH, Ma JL, Pan H, Zhang H, Li WC, Xue AM, Wang HJ, Ma KJ, Chen L. RNA degradation as described by a mathematical model for postmortem interval determination. J Forensic Leg Med 2016; 44:43-52. [PMID: 27598868 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.08.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Precisely determining the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial to civil, criminal and forensic cases. A technique to exploit the postmortem RNA transcript level was developed to increase the accuracy and practicality of PMI estimation. For this purpose, lung tissues and muscle tissues were removed at twelve time points (0-144 h) from rat corpses that had been stored at three different temperatures (10, 20 and 30 °C). Human tissues were collected at autopsy from twelve real cases with known PMI values and other parameters. After the RNA was extracted from all these samples, the transcript levels of nine biomarkers were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). With the assistance of geNorm, miR-195, miR-200c, 5S, U6 and RPS29 were selected as reference biomarkers for lung specimens; miR-1, miR-206, 5S and RPS29 were chosen as control markers for muscle tissues. On the contrary, ACTB and GAPDH were significantly correlated with the PMI. The mathematical models using these target biomarkers were constructed to describe the characteristic relationship between △Ct values (normalized to reference biomarkers) and the observed PMI for each temperature group. Following validation, the relatively low error rates (7.4% and 12.5% for rat and human samples, respectively) demonstrated the accuracy and reliability of the mathematical model. We believe these results indicate that the multi-parametric mathematical model can become a practical tool for PMI estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-Hui Lv
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China; Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China; Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, 21 Meilong Road, Shanghai, 200030, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian-Long Ma
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui Pan
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Heng Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China; Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 130 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Can Li
- Shanghai Public Security Bureau, Pudong Branch, 655 Dingxiang Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Ai-Min Xue
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China
| | - Hui-Jun Wang
- Children's Hospital of Fudan University, 399 Wanyuan Road, Shanghai, 201102, People's Republic of China
| | - Kai-Jun Ma
- Forensic Lab, Criminal Science and Technology Institute, Shanghai Public Security Bureau, 803 North Zhongshan Road, Shanghai, 200082, People's Republic of China
| | - Long Chen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Fudan University, 131 Dongan Road, Shanghai, 200032, People's Republic of China.
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Pittner S, Ehrenfellner B, Monticelli FC, Zissler A, Sänger AM, Stoiber W, Steinbacher P. Postmortem muscle protein degradation in humans as a tool for PMI delimitation. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1547-1555. [PMID: 26951243 PMCID: PMC5055573 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1349-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Forensic estimation of time since death relies on diverse approaches, including measurement and comparison of environmental and body core temperature and analysis of insect colonization on a dead body. However, most of the applied methods have practical limitations or provide insufficient results under certain circumstances. Thus, new methods that can easily be implemented into forensic routine work are required to deliver more and discrete information about the postmortem interval (PMI). Following a previous work on skeletal muscle degradation in the porcine model, we analyzed human postmortem skeletal muscle samples of 40 forensic cases by Western blotting and casein zymography. Our results demonstrate predictable protein degradation processes in human muscle that are distinctly associated with temperature and the PMI. We provide information on promising degradation markers for certain periods of time postmortem, which can be useful tools for time since death delimitation. In addition, we discuss external influencing factors such as age, body mass index, sex, and cause of death that need to be considered in future routine application of the method in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Bianca Ehrenfellner
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabio C Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, University of Salzburg, Ignaz-Harrer-Straße 79, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Angela Zissler
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra M Sänger
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Walter Stoiber
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
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Abstract
A thorough understanding of the physical and chemical changes that occur in the body after death is critical for accurate interpretation of gross and microscopic pathology at autopsy. Furthermore, knowledge of the postmortem processes and the factors that affect them will aid in the estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI). The estimation of the PMI is important in many human and animal death investigations. Despite many decades of research, accuracy in estimation of the time of death has not significantly improved, and no single method can be reliably used to accurately estimate the time of death. Great care should be taken when formulating such an estimate, for it is dependent on multiple circumstantial and environmental factors, and the accuracy and precision of the estimate decrease as the PMI increases. The majority of the research in the field has been conducted on human bodies, but many relevant conclusions may be drawn regarding the expected postmortem changes in animals and the estimation of the PMI. The veterinary pathologist must use great caution when attempting to extrapolate data and apply formulas designed for use in humans. Methods reviewed include gross changes, microscopic changes, temperature-based methods, postmortem chemistry, molecular methods, microbial assay, ocular changes, radiography, entomology, and others. Although only several of these methods are currently practical for use in the workup of cases, it is expected that future research will result in improved techniques with enhanced accuracy in the estimation of the PMI, which will benefit both human and veterinary forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Brooks
- Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Agricultural Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA
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33
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Rodrigo MR. A Nonlinear Least Squares Approach to Time of Death Estimation Via Body Cooling. J Forensic Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marianito R. Rodrigo
- School of Mathematics and Applied Statistics; University of Wollongong; Wollongong NSW 2522 Australia
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34
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Pittner S, Monticelli FC, Pfisterer A, Zissler A, Sänger AM, Stoiber W, Steinbacher P. Postmortem degradation of skeletal muscle proteins: a novel approach to determine the time since death. Int J Legal Med 2015; 130:421-31. [PMID: 26041514 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-015-1210-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Estimating the time since death is a very important aspect in forensic sciences which is pursued by a variety of methods. The most precise method to determine the postmortem interval (PMI) is the temperature method which is based on the decrease of the body core temperature from 37 °C. However, this method is only useful in the early postmortem phase (~0-36 h). The aim of the present work is to develop an accurate method for PMI determination beyond this present limit. For this purpose, we used sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), Western blotting, and casein zymography to analyze the time course of degradation of selected proteins and calpain activity in porcine biceps femoris muscle until 240 h postmortem (hpm). Our results demonstrate that titin, nebulin, desmin, cardiac troponin T, and SERCA1 degraded in a regular and predictable fashion in all samples investigated. Similarly, both the native calpain 1 and calpain 2 bands disintegrate into two bands subsequently. This degradation behavior identifies muscular proteins and enzymes as promising substrates for future molecular-based PMI determination technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Pittner
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Fabio C Monticelli
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Neuropsychiatry, University of Salzburg, Ignaz-Harrer-Straße 79, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexander Pfisterer
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Angela Zissler
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Alexandra M Sänger
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Walter Stoiber
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Steinbacher
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Salzburg, Hellbrunnerstr. 34, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
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35
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Cordeiro C, Seoane R, Camba A, Lendoiro E, Rodríguez-Calvo MS, Vieira DN, Muñoz-Barús JI. The Application of Flow Cytometry as a Rapid and Sensitive Screening Method to Detect Contamination of Vitreous Humor Samples and Avoid Miscalculation of the Postmortem Interval. J Forensic Sci 2015; 60:1346-9. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Cordeiro
- National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences - Centre Branch; Coimbra 3000-213 Portugal
- Faculty of Medicine; University of Coimbra; Coimbra 3004-504 Portugal
- CENCIFOR (Centre of Forensic Sciences) - Foundation for Science and Technology; Coimbra 3004-504 Portugal
| | - Rafael Seoane
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15892 Spain
| | - Ana Camba
- Institute of Forensic Sciences; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15782 Spain
| | - Elena Lendoiro
- Institute of Forensic Sciences; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15782 Spain
| | - María S. Rodríguez-Calvo
- Institute of Forensic Sciences; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15782 Spain
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Science; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15892 Spain
| | - Duarte N. Vieira
- Faculty of Medicine; University of Coimbra; Coimbra 3004-504 Portugal
- CENCIFOR (Centre of Forensic Sciences) - Foundation for Science and Technology; Coimbra 3004-504 Portugal
- Faculty of Health Sciences; University of Beira Interior; Covilhã 6200-506 Portugal
| | - José I. Muñoz-Barús
- Institute of Forensic Sciences; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15782 Spain
- Department of Pathology and Forensic Science; University of Santiago de Compostela; Santiago de Compostela 15892 Spain
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36
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Rutty GN. The estimation of the time since death using temperatures recorded from the external auditory canal : Part I: Can a temperature be recorded and interpreted from this site? Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2015; 1:41-51. [PMID: 25869836 DOI: 10.1385/fsmp:1:1:041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/12/2005] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In this first paper of two, two experimental models are used to revisit and expand upon the question as to whether a temperature can be recorded from the external auditory canal (EAC) and used to estimate a time since death using the largest data series for this site to date. The behaviour of the temperature within the EAC after death is investigated and compared to that of the rectum. The temperatures are then applied to previously published algorithms to estimate the time since death. The choice of thermometer and the algorithm to be used are considered as well as why the time since death will be overestimated if consideration is not given to the differences between the rectal and EAC temperature in life or after death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy N Rutty
- Forensic Pathology Unit, University of Leicester, Robert Kilpatrick Building Leicester Royal Infirmary, LE2 7LX, Leicester, United Kingdom,
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37
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Hubig M, Muggenthaler H, Mall G. Confidence intervals in temperature-based death time determination. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2014; 17:48-51. [PMID: 25205513 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2014.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2014] [Revised: 08/09/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Marshall and Hoare's double exponential model with Henßge's parameters is a well known method for temperature based death time estimation. The authors give 95%-confidence intervals for their method. Since body cooling is a complex thermodynamical process, one has to take into account a potential bias of the estimator. This quantity measures the systematic error of the estimators underlying model. For confidence interval radius calculation a bias of 0 is presupposed, therefore the actual probability of the true death time value to lie in the 95%-confidence interval can be much lower than 95% in case of nonvanishing bias. As in case of nonstandard conditions the confidence intervals have a probability of containing the true death time value which even in case of small corrective factor errors of Δ = ± 0.1 can be substantially smaller than the 95% claimed, the paper presents a formula for confidence intervals which keep a 95% probability in case of error Δc ⩽ ± 0.1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hubig
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany.
| | - Holger Muggenthaler
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany
| | - Gita Mall
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Jena University Hospital, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany
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38
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Hubig M, Muggenthaler H, Mall G. Conditional probability distribution (CPD) method in temperature based death time estimation: Error propagation analysis. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 238:53-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Revised: 02/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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39
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Lv YH, Ma KJ, Zhang H, He M, Zhang P, Shen YW, Jiang N, Ma D, Chen L. A time course study demonstrating mRNA, microRNA, 18S rRNA, and U6 snRNA changes to estimate PMI in deceased rat's spleen. J Forensic Sci 2014; 59:1286-94. [PMID: 24611529 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2012] [Revised: 05/26/2013] [Accepted: 06/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Determining the postmortem interval (PMI) is important in criminal, civil, and forensic cases. We examined the feasibility of using the transcript abundances of mRNAs, 18S rRNA, U6 snRNA, and microRNAs as a means to estimate the PMI. We removed spleen tissues from rats at different PMIs under 4°C or 25°C and examined gene transcript abundances in these samples by RT-qPCR. Using the algorithm geNorm, we found that microRNAs to be appropriate control markers because they were less affected by PMI and temperature. We also characterized relationships between observed PMI and the transcript levels of the above-mentioned RNAs. GAPDH1 and ACTB1 fluctuated slightly like cubic curves, while GAPDH2 and ACTB2 decreased rapidly. 18S rRNA transcript level exhibited a parabolic-like trend at 25°C and exponential growth at 4°C, while U6 transcript level exhibited exponential decay at 25°C and a parabolic-like trend at 4°C. Following validation, we conclude that GAPDH2, ACTB2, and 18S rRNA are suitable makers in the accurate determination of PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye-hui Lv
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Medical School of Fudan University, 200032, Shanghai, China
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40
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Alibegović A, Balažic J, Petrovič D, Hribar G, Blagus R, Drobnič M. Viability of Human Articular Chondrocytes Harvested Postmortem: Changes with Time and Temperature ofIn VitroCulture Conditions. J Forensic Sci 2014; 59:522-8. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Revised: 12/24/2012] [Accepted: 12/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Armin Alibegović
- Institute of Forensic Medicine; Medical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Korytkova 2 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Jože Balažic
- Institute of Forensic Medicine; Medical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Korytkova 2 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Danijel Petrovič
- Institute of Histology and Embryology; Medical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Korytkova 2 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Gorazd Hribar
- Laboratory for Biosynthesis and Biotransformation; National Institute of Chemistry; Hajdrihova 19 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Rok Blagus
- Institute of Biostatistics and Medical Informatics; Medical Faculty; University of Ljubljana; Vrazov trg 2 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
| | - Matej Drobnič
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery; University Medical Center Ljubljana; Zaloška 9 1000 Ljubljana Slovenia
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41
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Spectrometric evaluation of post-mortem optical skin changes. Int J Legal Med 2013; 128:361-7. [PMID: 23604392 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-013-0855-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
As to their optical properties, the components of human skin can be divided into two different categories: the light-scattering components shown as peaks and those absorbing light appearing as dips in the reflectance spectrum. As the post-mortem interval progresses, the concentration of scatterers and absorbers and thus the reflectance spectra change due to post-mortem tissue breakdown and degradation. Based on a total number of 532 reflectance spectrometric measurements in 195 deceased, a characteristic change in the reflectance spectra could be documented in the post-mortem course. Subsequently, an algorithm to calculate the post-mortem interval was developed by analysing the reflectance spectrometric extrema.
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42
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Alibegović A, Balažic J, Petrovič D, Velikonja NK, Blagus R, Šuput D, Drobnič M. The Optimal Combination of Cartilage Source and Apparatus for Long-TermIn VitroChondrocyte Viability Analysis. J Forensic Sci 2012; 57:1601-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2012.02175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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43
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Nasal ciliary motility: a new tool in estimating the time of death. Int J Legal Med 2012; 126:427-33. [PMID: 22370997 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-012-0682-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Determination of time since death is one of the most difficult and crucial issue in forensic medicine. Apart from body cooling, which is commonly used in the early postmortem interval (PMI), supravital reactions are the most interesting postmortem changes for time of death estimation. Nasal ciliary motility has been occasionally observed in postmortem period although no studies have focused on this phenomenon for forensic purposes. We aimed to evaluate the diagnostic usefulness of ciliary motility as a potential tool in estimating the time of death. Specimens of ciliated epithelium from 100 consecutive cadavers were obtained by scraping the nasal mucosa at three different postmortem intervals. The samples were then smeared on a slide, and an in vitro evaluation of ciliary movement was analyzed by phase-contrast microscopy. A postmortem nasal ciliary motility was observed, and a statistically significant relationship between decreasing ciliary movements and increasing postmortem interval was detected even in presence of putrefactive changes of nasal ultrastructure integrity. Some peculiar causes of death seem to influence ciliary motility in the early PMI, while no significant correlations with sex or age were observed. According to the results of this study, postmortem evaluation of nasal ciliary motility may be a bona fide and a feasible option for estimating the time of death.
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44
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Anders S, Kunz M, Gehl A, Sehner S, Raupach T, Beck-Bornholdt HP. Estimation of the time since death—reconsidering the re-establishment of rigor mortis. Int J Legal Med 2011; 127:127-30. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-011-0632-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2011] [Accepted: 10/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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45
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Ith M, Scheurer E, Kreis R, Thali M, Dirnhofer R, Boesch C. Estimation of the postmortem interval by means of ¹H MRS of decomposing brain tissue: influence of ambient temperature. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2011; 24:791-798. [PMID: 21834003 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.1623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2010] [Revised: 08/17/2010] [Accepted: 08/30/2010] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Standard methods for the estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI, time since death), based on the cooling of the corpse, are limited to about 48 h after death. As an alternative, noninvasive postmortem observation of alterations of brain metabolites by means of (1)H MRS has been suggested for an estimation of the PMI at room temperature, so far without including the effect of other ambient temperatures. In order to study the temperature effect, localized (1)H MRS was used to follow brain decomposition in a sheep brain model at four different temperatures between 4 and 26°C with repeated measurements up to 2100 h postmortem. The simultaneous determination of 25 different biochemical compounds at each measurement allowed the time courses of concentration changes to be followed. A sudden and almost simultaneous change of the concentrations of seven compounds was observed after a time span that decreased exponentially from 700 h at 4°C to 30 h at 26°C ambient temperature. As this represents, most probably, the onset of highly variable bacterial decomposition, and thus defines the upper limit for a reliable PMI estimation, data were analyzed only up to this start of bacterial decomposition. As 13 compounds showed unequivocal, reproducible concentration changes during this period while eight showed a linear increase with a slope that was unambiguously related to ambient temperature. Therefore, a single analytical function with PMI and temperature as variables can describe the time courses of metabolite concentrations. Using the inverse of this function, metabolite concentrations determined from a single MR spectrum can be used, together with known ambient temperatures, to calculate the PMI of a corpse. It is concluded that the effect of ambient temperature can be reliably included in the PMI determination by (1)H MRS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Ith
- Department of Clinical Research, University Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
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46
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Biermann FM, Potente S. The deployment of conditional probability distributions for death time estimation. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 210:82-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/05/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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47
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Zinka B, Kandlbinder R, Haas G, Schupfner R, Wolfbeis O, Graw M. Radionuklidanalyse von 228Th und 228Ra. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2010. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-010-0722-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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48
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Hubig M, Muggenthaler H, Mall G. Influence of measurement errors on temperature-based death time determination. Int J Legal Med 2010; 125:503-17. [PMID: 20401616 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-010-0453-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2010] [Accepted: 03/22/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Temperature-based methods represent essential tools in forensic death time determination. Empirical double exponential models have gained wide acceptance because they are highly flexible and simple to handle. The most established model commonly used in forensic practice was developed by Henssge. It contains three independent variables: the body mass, the environmental temperature, and the initial body core temperature. The present study investigates the influence of variations in the input data (environmental temperature, initial body core temperature, core temperature, time) on the standard deviation of the model-based estimates of the time since death. Two different approaches were used for calculating the standard deviation: the law of error propagation and the Monte Carlo method. Errors in environmental temperature measurements as well as deviations of the initial rectal temperature were identified as major sources of inaccuracies in model based death time estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Hubig
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Jena, Fürstengraben 23, 07740 Jena, Germany
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49
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Tuo Y, Huang P, Ke Y, Fan S, Lu Q, Xin B, Wang Z. Attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic investigation of the postmortem metabolic process in rat and human kidney cortex. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2010; 64:268-274. [PMID: 20223060 DOI: 10.1366/000370210790918382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy has been applied to study the short and long term postmortem metabolic processes in rat and human kidney cortexes. The goals of this project were as follows: (1) to investigate the changes of ATR spectra in different rat and human tissues after death, (2) to explore the best mathematical model with different band absorption ratio changes to determine the postmortem interval (PMI), and (3) to establish a preliminary human postmortem ATR spectra database. There were three different types of metabolic changes after death based on the spectral results: (1) the intensities of some bands increased continuously (e.g., C-H stretching region), (2) the intensities of other bands decreased continuously (e.g., PO(2)(-) symmetric stretching), and (3) other bands remained relatively stable (e.g., C-OH bending, CO-O-C antisymmetric stretching). The band absorbance ratios for rats were found to display either a significant increase or decrease with increasing time after death. Of the absorbance ratios of the various bands investigated to find the best fit with the cubic model function in rats, the A(1652)/A(1396) ratio showed the strongest correlation (R(2) = 0.937). Comparison of the rat kidney cortex spectra with selected human postmortem cases showed similar postmortem metabolic changes. In conclusion, ATR FT-IR spectroscopy was shown to be a convenient and reliable method of determining short and long term postmortem intervals by simultaneously monitoring several specific parameters, although these observations have yet to be applied at forensic scenes by further field studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya Tuo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
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50
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Kaliszan M, Hauser R, Kernbach-Wighton G. Estimation of the time of death based on the assessment of post mortem processes with emphasis on body cooling. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2009; 11:111-7. [PMID: 19200767 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2008.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2008] [Revised: 11/29/2008] [Accepted: 12/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents a review of the literature referring to the estimation of the time of death (TOD) over nearly 200 years. Emphasis is put on the development of the methods taking advantage of the decrease in body temperature after death, measured in various body sites. The review is complemented by the first authors' own experiences on TOD estimation based on post mortem temperature measurements in the eyeball and orbit soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Kaliszan
- Forensic Medicine Section, Division of Pathology, University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, EH8 9AG Edinburgh, UK.
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