Forensic Sciences

Research

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12 pages, 1140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Non-Racial Approach to Assessing Group Membership of Victims in a Mass Grave Using Cranial Data

by John Albanese and Alyssa Di Iorio

Forensic Sci. 2023, 3(1), 22-33; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci3010004 - 25 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2021

Abstract

In some jurisdictions, race, ancestry, or population affinity have been used for historical and po-litical, rather than biological, reasons in forensic anthropology when identifying individuals. The approach persists even though the genetic and skeletal data clearly demonstrate that human variation does not cluster [...] Read more.

In some jurisdictions, race, ancestry, or population affinity have been used for historical and po-litical, rather than biological, reasons in forensic anthropology when identifying individuals. The approach persists even though the genetic and skeletal data clearly demonstrate that human variation does not cluster into these groups. For over 60 years, these methods have consistently performed poorly when independently tested using large samples. By racializing the deceased, these methods have further marginalized the living. However, there is a need in the investigation of genocide and human rights violations to demonstrate that a specific group was targeted. Without relying on the outdated typological concepts of human variation, in this paper we present preliminary results for a method that can be used in a mass grave context to demonstrate that a specific group was targeted. Using samples from two identified reference collections, we created subsamples from one relatively homogeneous collection to model various mass grave scenarios and used the relatively heterogenous sample from the other collection as a reference for com-parison. In scenarios that varied by sample size and sex, it was possible to determine that a specific group was targeted if the sample size in a hypothetical mass grave was greater than 25 for a multi-sex sample, when sex is not known, and a minimum of 14 if sex could be estimated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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15 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Penrose Hypothesis: Examining the Association between the Availability of Psychiatric Care and National Homicide Rates in 166 Countries

by Ravi Philip Rajkumar

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 657-671; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040049 - 14 Oct 2022

Viewed by 2588

Abstract

The association between mental illness and violent crimes such as homicide is complex. In 1939, Lionel Penrose hypothesized that the availability of psychiatric hospital beds was inversely related to the prison population, presumably due to the hospitalization of potential offenders with a mental [...] Read more.

The association between mental illness and violent crimes such as homicide is complex. In 1939, Lionel Penrose hypothesized that the availability of psychiatric hospital beds was inversely related to the prison population, presumably due to the hospitalization of potential offenders with a mental illness. Subsequent studies have found evidence for this association, but questions remain about the contributions of confounding factors. Moreover, there has been a move towards deinstitutionalization and community care of the mentally ill over the past six decades. In this study, the association between national homicide rates and three measures of the availability of psychiatric care—the numbers of psychiatrists, general hospital psychiatric beds, and psychiatric hospital beds per 100,000 population—was examined using a time-lagged correlation analysis. Associations between homicide rates and socioeconomic factors associated with crime were also examined. It was found that the availability of psychiatrists and of general hospital psychiatric beds were both negatively correlated with homicide rates, and that the association with general hospital psychiatric beds remained significant even after correction for confounding factors. These results suggest the need for a more nuanced interpretation of Penrose’s original formulation, involving the interplay of social, economic factors and psychological factors rather than linear causality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

7 pages, 7969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Pink Teeth Phenomenon in Dogs and a Cat

by Adam W. Stern, AnnMarie Clark, Jason H. Byrd, Katrina M. Leser and Haley Russo

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 650-656; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040048 - 12 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3661

Abstract

The observance of pink teeth during the postmortem period in humans is known as the pink teeth phenomenon. In contrast, postmortem pink discoloration of teeth is rarely reported in veterinary medicine. We examined the teeth of nine dogs and a cat postmortem, all [...] Read more.

The observance of pink teeth during the postmortem period in humans is known as the pink teeth phenomenon. In contrast, postmortem pink discoloration of teeth is rarely reported in veterinary medicine. We examined the teeth of nine dogs and a cat postmortem, all of which had varying degrees of pink discoloration of the teeth. Pink discoloration occurred in all types of teeth (incisors, canine, premolar, and molar). The roots of several teeth were discolored, ranging from pink to red, and over a 2–3 week period one dog’s lower incisors’ color changed from pink to red. Although the mechanism causing teeth to change color is suspected to be the uptake of hemoglobin within dentin tubules, the trigger for this phenomenon is not well understood. Our findings confirm the occurrence of the pink teeth phenomenon in dogs and a cat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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11 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Morphological Methods for Sex Estimation on Isolated Human Skeletal Materials: Comparisons of Accuracies between German and South African Skeletal Collections

by Avinash Gupta, Brendon K. Billings, Susanne Hummel and Birgit Grosskopf

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(3), 574-584; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2030042 - 30 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3597

Abstract

Objectives: The focus of this research is to evaluate the sex estimation methods on isolated human materials by applying morphological methods published in various forensic and anthropological literature on different skeletal series. Materials and Methods: 165 individuals from the 19th to 20th century [...] Read more.

Objectives: The focus of this research is to evaluate the sex estimation methods on isolated human materials by applying morphological methods published in various forensic and anthropological literature on different skeletal series. Materials and Methods: 165 individuals from the 19th to 20th century Inden skeletal series, 252 individuals from the 13th to 14th century Lübeck skeletal series of German ancestry housed at the Department of Historical Anthropology and Human Ecology, the University of Göttingen, Germany, and 161 individuals from the 19th and 20th century of South African African ancestry housed within the Raymond A. Dart collection of modern human skeletons at the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa, with crania, mandibles, and pelves, were assessed. The evaluation criteria are burial information on the Inden series, genetic sex on both the Inden and the Lübeck series, and previous demography on cadavers from the South African African series. Results and Discussion: The sex estimation with cranial traits perform better in Inden and South Africa samples and worse in Lübeck sample. The mandible accuracies for pooled sexes are not exemplary, but the individual traits perform better for males in the Inden, Lübeck, and South Africa samples, except for gonion and angle, which performs better in females. The pelvic traits perform better in the Inden and South Africa samples compared to the Lübeck sample. The statistical tests show that there is a huge difference in the accuracy rates and the performance between both population groups from Germany itself, considering that Inden and Lübeck samples share the same ancestry. The accuracy rates improve with the exclusion of ambiguous individuals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

13 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dismemberment as a Method of Body Disposal in Spanish Forensic Cases

by Pilar Mata-Tutor, Catherine Villoria-Rojas, María Benito-Sánchez and Nicholas Marquez-Grant

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(3), 492-504; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2030036 - 11 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4237

Abstract

This study provides an overview of victim and offender data, the cause and manner of death, the dismemberment type, the post-dismemberment alteration, and the forensic investigation, for 35 Spanish forensic cases. The main aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis [...] Read more.

This study provides an overview of victim and offender data, the cause and manner of death, the dismemberment type, the post-dismemberment alteration, and the forensic investigation, for 35 Spanish forensic cases. The main aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis of dismemberment and body part alteration in Spain since 1990, in particular relating to burning. The sample was selected from a Spanish national database on criminal records (CENDOJ). Official court records were examined for 96 variables, which were analysed through non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis (nMDS). The results obtained revealed that the number of dismemberment cases between 1990 and 2016 totalled 35 (amounting to a total of 40 bodies) with an incidence of 0.29% of the total number of homicide cases in the database. Most of the aggressors were Spanish adult males, and the victims were adult females of foreign nationality. The most commonly employed tool used to kill and dismember was the knife. A total of 15.00% of the 40 bodies were further altered by fire. It was concluded that dismemberment and other postmortem actions contributed to complicating the forensic investigation and hindering the identification of the deceased. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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15 pages, 1878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Histopathological and Quantitative Lesions of the Cardiac Conduction System and Its Vascularization Related to Chronic Cocaine Abusers and Sudden Unexpected Death

by Damián Sánchez-Quintana, Sergio Alama, Yolanda Macías, José-Ángel Cabrera, María Santos and Manuel Salguero

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(2), 423-437; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2020032 - 8 Jun 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2895

Abstract

Cocaine abuse is associated with multiple cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and sudden death. A total of 40 hearts were studied. The purpose of this study was to compare the cardiac conduction tissue and its vascularization in 20 young adults without a [...] Read more.

Cocaine abuse is associated with multiple cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, and sudden death. A total of 40 hearts were studied. The purpose of this study was to compare the cardiac conduction tissue and its vascularization in 20 young adults without a history of drug use and/or arrhythmias and 20 hearts of young adults with a history of chronic cocaine use who have died of sudden unexpected death, in which toxicological analyzes were performed in blood and urine as a means to establish chronic cocaine use. We have applied serial histological sections, techniques of morphometry, and image analysis to quantify the density and affectation of connective/adipose tissue of the conduction system and intramyocardial vessels. The conduction system after chronic cocaine use showed potentially lethal changes with an increase in connective/adipose tissue at the level of the intranodal or perinodal tissue of the sinus node in 35% (7 hearts) and the atrioventricular node in 75% (15 hearts), with the most affected structure being the left bundle branch and the AV nodal artery (100%, 20 hearts). In conclusion, the histopathologic changes in nodes, the perinodal area, and small vessels may be a morphological substrate that offers an explanation about the mechanism of arrhythmias and sudden death in this population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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16 pages, 943 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-Mortem Quantitation of Amphetamine in Cadaveric Fluids in Saudi Arabia

by Ahmed I. Al-Asmari, Faiz D. Al-Solami, Abdulnasser E. Al-Zahrani and Torki A. Zughaibi

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(1), 222-237; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2010017 - 1 Mar 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5057

Abstract

Amphetamine abuse is a known problem in Saudi Arabia; it is estimated that 40% of drug abusers misuse amphetamines. Here, our aim was to perform an up-to-date epidemiological study of amphetamine-related postmortem cases in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in which 235 postmortem cases were [...] Read more.

Amphetamine abuse is a known problem in Saudi Arabia; it is estimated that 40% of drug abusers misuse amphetamines. Here, our aim was to perform an up-to-date epidemiological study of amphetamine-related postmortem cases in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, in which 235 postmortem cases were included. The largest number of cases was recorded for the groups aged between 31 and 40 years (86 cases) and the lowest number of cases was recorded for the group aged between 61 and 70 years old (5 cases). Amphetamine was co-ingested with other drug(s) in 55% of the total cases (blood with sodium fluoride (BN), median, 0.3 mg/L). Approximately 23% of all deaths were due to other co-ingested drugs (BN, median, 0.2 mg/L). Amphetamines alone were detected in 107 cases, (BN, median, 0.5 mg/L). Amphetamine was the sole cause of death in 16% of the studied cases (BN, median, 1.0 mg/L). The combination of amphetamine and a pre-existing disease were observed in 9.4% of all deaths (BN, median, 0.7 mg/L). The causes of death were determined to be accidental in the majority (47%) of cases, homicides in 26% of cases, suicides in 11% of cases, and unknown in 7% of cases. This is the first discussion of the amphetamine concentration in bile in amphetamine-related deaths, the relationship between amphetamine concentration in different bodily fluids, and the amphetamine concentration in putrefied corpses. This study concluded that amphetamine abuse in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, increased over 400% between 2012 and 2018, and 41% of these cases involved violence. This result also suggests that preventive programs targeting youth and adolescent students are required to keep schools and universities free from drugs, especially amphetamines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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14 pages, 2371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Profiling of Successional Microbial Community Structure and Composition to Identify Exhumed Gravesoil—A Preliminary Study

by Ayodeji O Olakanye and T. Komang Ralebitso-Senior

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(1), 130-143; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2010010 - 7 Feb 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2744

Abstract

Advancements in molecular microbial ecology techniques have enabled researchers to study the complex interactions of epinecrobiome, necrobiome, and thanatomicrobiome communities during cadaver decomposition within novel forensic disciplines. This preliminary study tracks shifts in subsurface soil necrobiome as indicators of time-since-exhumation where whole juvenile [...] Read more.

Advancements in molecular microbial ecology techniques have enabled researchers to study the complex interactions of epinecrobiome, necrobiome, and thanatomicrobiome communities during cadaver decomposition within novel forensic disciplines. This preliminary study tracks shifts in subsurface soil necrobiome as indicators of time-since-exhumation where whole juvenile Sus scrofa domesticus was used as the human cadaver proxy. Principal component analysis of DGGE-based diversity index (Shannon-Weiner, HꞋ; Simpson (D)) measurements showed more consistent delineation of pre- and post-exhumation periods of the fungal 18S gene with further clustering for days 270 and 300. More importantly, high-resolution metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA gene recorded temporal bacterial clock indicators at order and family levels. Specifically, Xanthomonadales (11.29%) and Xanthomonadaceae (4.27%), and Verrucomicrobiaceae (4.00%) were abundance-based season (spring–summer) and microbial clock indicators for post-burial interval (PBI) ≥ 150 days. Hydrogenophilales (7.13%) and Hydrogenophilaceae (7.56%), Clostridiales (4.57%) and Clostridiaceae_1 (3.13%), and Bacteroidales (3.33%) defined the impacts of 120 days since exhumation of Sus scrofa domesticus. They could, therefore, be tracked to identify grave emptying for the current soil type. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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Review

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10 pages, 925 KiB

Open AccessReview

Wildlife Forensic Sciences: A Tool to Nature Conservation towards a One Health Approach

by Catarina Jota Baptista, Fernanda Seixas, José Manuel Gonzalo-Orden and Paula A. Oliveira

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 808-817; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040058 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7370

Abstract

Wildlife forensics is a science field with a remarkable potential to provide accurate information regarding nature conservation and One Health. Wildlife crimes are now a persistent target of public opinion and the concern of conservation professionals, which is constantly putting pressure on governmental [...] Read more.

Wildlife forensics is a science field with a remarkable potential to provide accurate information regarding nature conservation and One Health. Wildlife crimes are now a persistent target of public opinion and the concern of conservation professionals, which is constantly putting pressure on governmental and non-governmental entities. Moreover, the cross-species transmission of pathogens is becoming more and more frequent, endangering the interconnected health of humans, animals and the environment (One Health). This review intends to briefly present and illustrate the potential of wildlife forensic sciences not only in crime solving, but also regarding health sciences and species conservation. By allowing target species identification, recreating the crime scene, and considering their contribution to diseases and ecosystems’ surveillance, wildlife forensics are now constantly developing and improving. A cooperative and multidisciplinary approach (with the inclusion of forensic sciences) is necessary to avoid wildlife crimes, disease outbreaks, environmental disasters and to promote a sustainable and healthy future for all the living beings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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19 pages, 819 KiB

Open AccessReview

Autopsy by Imaging: The Last 10 Years

by Ellie Mercala and Emyr Wyn Benbow

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 696-714; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040052 - 27 Oct 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4898

Abstract

Virtual autopsies (VAs) are non-invasive, bypassing many of the challenges posed by traditional autopsies (TAs). This is a literature review about the sensitivity of the main VA techniques: post mortem (PM) computed tomography (PMCT) and PM magnetic resonance (PMMR). This could help to [...] Read more.

Virtual autopsies (VAs) are non-invasive, bypassing many of the challenges posed by traditional autopsies (TAs). This is a literature review about the sensitivity of the main VA techniques: post mortem (PM) computed tomography (PMCT) and PM magnetic resonance (PMMR). This could help to identify the most appropriate uses for VA, and where future research should focus. A review was performed, searching for literature from the last 10 years regarding how sensitive VA is at detecting common lesions that could cause or contribute to death. 33 studies were included. There was strong agreement that PMCT had strengths in detecting: free gas; fractures; large fluid accumulations; and calcifications. PMCT’s weaknesses included missing: pulmonary emboli; myocardial infarctions; and visceral/soft tissue lesions. The strengths of PMMR were less widely agreed, but included detecting: large fluid collections; myocardial infarctions; and visceral/soft tissue lesions. There were no wide agreements on PMMR’s weaknesses due to a lack of literature. Therefore, VA is a useful adjunct to TA; however, its drawbacks in reliably detecting common causes of death restrict its ability to fully replace TA. Novel imaging techniques are being developed in order to bridge the current gaps of VA, and make autopsies even less invasive. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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14 pages, 2356 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperReview

Challenges and (Un)Certainties for DNAm Age Estimation in Future

by Helena Correia Dias, Eugénia Cunha, Francisco Corte Real and Licínio Manco

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(3), 601-614; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2030044 - 15 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2232

Abstract

Age estimation is a paramount issue in criminal, anthropological, and forensic research. Because of this, several areas of research have focused on the establishment of new approaches for age prediction, including bimolecular and anthropological methods. In recent years, DNA methylation (DNAm) has arisen [...] Read more.

Age estimation is a paramount issue in criminal, anthropological, and forensic research. Because of this, several areas of research have focused on the establishment of new approaches for age prediction, including bimolecular and anthropological methods. In recent years, DNA methylation (DNAm) has arisen as one of the hottest topics in the field. Many studies have developed age-prediction models (APMs) based on evaluation of DNAm levels of many genes in different tissue types and using different methodological approaches. However, several challenges and confounder factors should be considered before using methylation levels for age estimation in forensic contexts. To provide in-depth knowledge about DNAm age estimation (DNAm age) and to understand why it is not yet a current tool in forensic laboratories, this review encompasses the literature for the most relevant scientific works published from 2015 to 2021 to address the challenges and future directions in the field. More than 60 papers were considered focusing essentially on studies that developed models for age prediction in several sample types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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35 pages, 2034 KiB

Open AccessReview

Tooth Cementum Annulation: A Literature Review

by Valentina Perrone, Timothy P. Gocha, Patrick Randolph-Quinney and Noemi Procopio

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(3), 516-550; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2030038 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5679

Abstract

Tooth Cementum Annulation (or TCA) is a technique that relies on the analysis of the incremental growth of dental cementum for age and season at death estimation. It has been extensively adopted as a “black box technique”, despite numerous controversies. Its potential in [...] Read more.

Tooth Cementum Annulation (or TCA) is a technique that relies on the analysis of the incremental growth of dental cementum for age and season at death estimation. It has been extensively adopted as a “black box technique”, despite numerous controversies. Its potential in forensics called for this review, which aims to provide the reader with an overarching critical synthesis of what has been done and what is known about the TCA from different perspectives. Results have been divided according to three different themes: human, animal and evolutionary studies, as well as biological studies. The summary and comparison of these show the complexity of this topic, its limits, and how the scientific community can collectively collaborate for improvements. Overall, it is clear that the potential of the TCA is significant in terms of age and season at death estimation and that (as long as its biology is still addressed and researched for) there should not be any reason to not consider this technique as valid as the other anthropological methods adopted for biological profiling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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20 pages, 803 KiB

Open AccessReview

Conceptualizing Cybercrime: Definitions, Typologies and Taxonomies

by Kirsty Phillips, Julia C. Davidson, Ruby R. Farr, Christine Burkhardt, Stefano Caneppele and Mary P. Aiken

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(2), 379-398; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2020028 - 16 Apr 2022

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 41708

Abstract

Cybercrime is becoming ever more pervasive and yet the lack of consensus surrounding what constitutes a cybercrime has a significant impact on society, legal and policy response, and academic research. Difficulties in understanding cybercrime begin with the variability in terminology and lack of [...] Read more.

Cybercrime is becoming ever more pervasive and yet the lack of consensus surrounding what constitutes a cybercrime has a significant impact on society, legal and policy response, and academic research. Difficulties in understanding cybercrime begin with the variability in terminology and lack of consistency in cybercrime legislation across jurisdictions. In this review, using a structured literature review methodology, key cybercrime definitions, typologies and taxonomies were identified across a range of academic and non-academic (grey literature) sources. The findings of this review were consolidated and presented in the form of a new classification framework to understand cybercrime and cyberdeviance. Existing definitions, typologies and taxonomies were evaluated, and key challenges were identified. Whilst conceptualizing cybercrime will likely remain a challenge, this review provides recommendations for future work to advance towards a universal understanding of cybercrime phenomena as well as a robust and comprehensive classification system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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8 pages, 2004 KiB

Open AccessReview

Post-Trauma Combined Pulmonary Fat and Bone Embolism: Literature Review with Case Presentation

by Sara Sablone, Gerardo Cazzato, Lorenzo Spagnolo, Caterina Berterame, Federica Mele, Francesco Introna and Aldo Di Fazio

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(2), 371-378; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2020027 - 7 Apr 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5485

Abstract

Following an accident in the workplace, a man received deep wounds in his left groin and left lower limb caused by plow blades. An external examination was carried out showing multiple, large, and deep slash injuries of the scrotal region, the left groin, [...] Read more.

Following an accident in the workplace, a man received deep wounds in his left groin and left lower limb caused by plow blades. An external examination was carried out showing multiple, large, and deep slash injuries of the scrotal region, the left groin, and the left thigh. A complete autopsy was performed. The gross examination of the lungs showed edema and congestion, with some areas of parenchymal contusion and wide emphysema. The left femur showed complete, comminuted, displaced, and exposed fracture of its diaphyseal tract. Histopathological analysis was then carried out, showing unusual abnormalities in both lungs, with numerous endovascular drop-shaped fat globules with surrounding hematopoietic marrow that were mixed with small bone particles. The other organs did not show any signs that could explain the death. Given macroscopic and histopathological elements, the cause of death was ultimately identified as a traumatic shock with a high hemorrhagic component combined with pulmonary bone marrow and bone embolism. This paper aims to outline a rare case of post-trauma combined bone and bone marrow embolism. This occurrence is scantly described in the literature and should be considered in major trauma deaths. Therefore, in such cases, an accurate histopathological analysis should be mandatory to identify the correct cause of death and evaluate a possible medical liability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

5 pages, 199 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

Is It Time to Revisit the Definition of Serial Homicide? New Evidence and Theory

by D J Williams

Forensic Sci. 2023, 3(1), 120-124; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci3010010 - 6 Mar 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1803

Abstract

Historically, serial homicide has been defined in various ways by experts. Recently, there have been renewed efforts to arrive at a consensus definition, yet these efforts have not yet been resolved. At the heart of the controversy appears to be the prioritization of [...] Read more.

Historically, serial homicide has been defined in various ways by experts. Recently, there have been renewed efforts to arrive at a consensus definition, yet these efforts have not yet been resolved. At the heart of the controversy appears to be the prioritization of either qualitative definitional features, such as offenders’ intentions and motives, or more observable quantitative features, specifically a minimum threshold of completed murders. The present technical note briefly summarizes this controversy before considering new empirical and theoretical research developments. These developments support a definition that includes a three-victim minimum threshold of forensically linked murderers by the same person(s), occurring in separate events over time, wherein a primary motive is often personal gratification (leisure experience). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

13 pages, 3934 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Development of a Simple Cell Harvesting Method to Maximise DNA Recovery from Historic Microscope Slides for Sexual Assault Investigations

by Colby M. Hymus, Scott E. Egan and Jasmine W. Tay

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 795-807; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040057 - 17 Dec 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2743

Abstract

Microscopy slides are routinely created as part of sexual assault workflows for screening purposes and retained indefinitely with instances, such as cold cases, where they are the only remaining source of evidence. To date, no method has been developed to harvest the cells [...] Read more.

Microscopy slides are routinely created as part of sexual assault workflows for screening purposes and retained indefinitely with instances, such as cold cases, where they are the only remaining source of evidence. To date, no method has been developed to harvest the cells from these slides for differential extraction using the i-sep^® DL column or Intimate extraction using the PrepFiler™ Express chemistry supplemented with 60 mM DTT. This study used mock sexual assault slides from 2010 to develop a potential cell harvesting method, then tested both the extraction methods on historic casework slides collected in the 1980s and 1990s. Key findings included the necessity to re-screen slides microscopically to assess current cellular loading and the utility of using phase contrast to enhance visualisation of spermatozoa on historic slides. Both extraction methods successfully recovered DNA and generated partial profiles from the 1990s slides, but 1980s slides were too degraded to provide informative profiles. Differential extraction provided additional contextual information by separating contributors into sperm and non-sperm fractions, resulting in cleaner sperm profiles for interpretation. The study successfully established methods for historic microscope slides to be used as viable sources of evidence, potentially aiding in the progression and resolution of sexual assault investigations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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10 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessTechnical Note

Enhanced Efficiency of PrepFiler™ BTA DNA Extraction Kit with PrepFiler™ Lysis Buffer Top-Up over Sample Remnants

by Courtney J. Cameron, Colby M. Hymus, Kenny Quach, Shannen J. Blackwell and Jasmine W. Tay

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 672-681; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040050 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3436

Abstract

The PrepFiler™ BTA Forensic DNA Extraction Kit (BTA) is designed to purify DNA from challenging forensic samples including tissue, bone, tooth and adhesive-containing substrates. Earlier versions of the manual state that lysates are stable at ambient temperature for 24 h when 300 µL [...] Read more.

The PrepFiler™ BTA Forensic DNA Extraction Kit (BTA) is designed to purify DNA from challenging forensic samples including tissue, bone, tooth and adhesive-containing substrates. Earlier versions of the manual state that lysates are stable at ambient temperature for 24 h when 300 µL of PrepFiler™ lysis buffer is added to the lysate. The effect of centrifuging additional PrepFiler™ lysis buffer over PrepFiler™ BTA-lysed remnants has not been evaluated previously. This study evaluated the DNA yield and STR profile quality of BTA lysates after 24 h with or without PrepFiler™ lysis buffer addition over sample remnants. Blood, semen and buccal cells on tape were processed with 300 µL of PrepFiler™ lysis buffer added directly to spun lysates (standard) or over sample remnants (top-up), and DNA extracted immediately or 24 h after lysis. The top-up method generated higher DNA yields for all tape samples tested, with diluted semen returning the greatest improvement. Comparison of standard and top-up methods for chewing gum, tissue and tooth samples showed that cigarette butt remnants must be removed prior to top-up to maintain resultant DNA quality. The top-up method maximizes DNA recovery using Prepfiler™ BTA, while enabling the combination of PrepFiler™ BTA and PrepFiler™ lysates DNA purification batches for high-throughput applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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15 pages, 1082 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

The Importance of Soil on Human Taphonomy and Management of Portuguese Public Cemeteries

by Angela Silva-Bessa, Áurea Madureira-Carvalho, Lorna Dawson, Maria Teresa Ferreira, Ricardo Jorge Dinis-Oliveira and Shari L. Forbes

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 635-649; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040047 - 29 Sep 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5143

Abstract

Cemeteries from the European Romantic period (18th–19th centuries) are often compared to small cities that hold memories, art, and history. Portuguese public cemeteries were first established in 1835 and became an interesting combination of fauna, flora, and monumental sculptures to mourn the dead [...] Read more.

Cemeteries from the European Romantic period (18th–19th centuries) are often compared to small cities that hold memories, art, and history. Portuguese public cemeteries were first established in 1835 and became an interesting combination of fauna, flora, and monumental sculptures to mourn the dead at a location outside the limits of the city. Over the past 187 years, laws have been created and amended taking into consideration the needs of the population and the scientific knowledge available at each time point in history. Nevertheless, cemeteries have long been struggling with the lack of burial space which has been emphasised during the two years of the COVID pandemic. This work aims to review the development of Portuguese public cemeteries since their establishment, highlighting the imposed measures for the inhumation and exhumation of the deceased. It will also discuss the importance of soil as an abiotic agent, focusing on eight specific soil properties and their significance on the characterisation of graves. It is expected that a better understanding of the impact of soil on human taphonomy supports the role of city halls in managing public cemeteries, particularly the lack of burial space. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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5 pages, 1041 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

An Atypical Disease-Knowledge-Related Suicide by Means of Slashing the Hemodialytic Arteriovenous Fistula

by Nicola Galante, Barbara Ciprandi and Lorenzo Franceschetti

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(4), 615-619; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2040045 - 21 Sep 2022

Viewed by 3754

Abstract

A case of suicide committed by self-cutting the arteriovenous fistula in a patient on hemodialysis is presented. A 77-year-old man was found dead with a blood-stained kitchen knife in the bedroom by his daughter. The man suffered from severe chronic renal failure, for [...] Read more.

A case of suicide committed by self-cutting the arteriovenous fistula in a patient on hemodialysis is presented. A 77-year-old man was found dead with a blood-stained kitchen knife in the bedroom by his daughter. The man suffered from severe chronic renal failure, for which he needed hemodialysis. Moreover, he was recently diagnosed with bladder cancer relapse. At autopsy, there was a single incised wound on the anterior surface of the left forearm, which showed a regular slash of the skin and the subcutaneous tissues. After the dissection, there was a small-sized lesion affecting the arteriovenous fistula wall. Furthermore, faint postmortem lividity and diffuse visceral pallor were observed. Consequently, the cause of death was identified as an acute hemorrhagic shock after self-cut of the arteriovenous hemodialytic fistula. This case is worthy of several medicolegal considerations: firstly, autopsy examination should always be required in cases with atypical injuries, providing important data to differentiate suicides from homicides. Secondly, disease-knowledge-related suicides are an emerging phenomenon, which deserve careful analysis. Lastly, it is important to identify patients with chronic diseases for whom psychological support is needed, preventing suicidal ideation and reducing suicide risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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4 pages, 1790 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

An Autopsy Case of Posterior Pharyngeal Abscesses Caused by Periodontal Bacteria

by Risa Bandou, Hiroaki Ichioka, Masataka Kawamoto and Hiroshi Ikegaya

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(2), 399-402; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2020029 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2640

Abstract

A woman in her seventies living alone was found dead on the floor of her living room. A blue-green swelling was found from her right cheek to her anterior neck and an autopsy was performed. The autopsy revealed subcutaneous abscesses from the right [...] Read more.

A woman in her seventies living alone was found dead on the floor of her living room. A blue-green swelling was found from her right cheek to her anterior neck and an autopsy was performed. The autopsy revealed subcutaneous abscesses from the right cheek to the anterior neck, posterior pharyngeal abscesses, mediastinal abscesses, pleuritis, and pericarditis. The cause of death was diagnosed as sepsis due to a retropharyngeal abscess caused by extensive severe periodontitis. The presence of a dentist at the autopsy allowed for a rapid diagnosis of periodontal disease, which was the cause of the posterior pharyngeal abscesses and septic shock. Therefore, the participation of a dentist in a forensic autopsy is important not only for personal identification but also for the rapid diagnosis of the cause of death. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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8 pages, 1032 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Klippel–Feil Syndrome: The Curious Case of the Skeleton of a Young Slavic Soldier Who Died in 1946

by Alessia Leggio, Massimo Gallieni, Pasquale Puzo, Francesco Introna and Sara Sablone

Forensic Sci. 2022, 2(1), 155-162; https://doi.org/10.3390/forensicsci2010012 - 14 Feb 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3581

Abstract

This paper describes the curious case history of the famous and rare Klippel Feil syndrome type II, identified in the skeleton of a young Slavic soldier who died in 1946. It is a very interesting case given the fusion of the C1 and [...] Read more.

This paper describes the curious case history of the famous and rare Klippel Feil syndrome type II, identified in the skeleton of a young Slavic soldier who died in 1946. It is a very interesting case given the fusion of the C1 and C2 cervical vertebrae, which prevented the young soldier from rotating his skull while alive. Klippel–Feil syndrome is a rare osteopathology and involves fusion of the vertebrae of the spine and is linked to other pathologies that indicate the presence of this pathological condition. In the present study, several basic investigations were carried out: a macroscopic observation to document the abnormalities throughout the rest of the skeleton, a morphological one to determine the identifying anthropological analysis, a pathological one to determine the pathologies present and a radiographic one to diagnose and confirm the pathology. Studying the pathologies of the past is fundamental in order to know the evolution and behaviour of the disease today, and the investigations carried out in this case study determined what the limitations of the young soldier were, how this disease may have influenced his activities as a soldier during World War II and through which therapies the syndrome may have been treated in such an important historical period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Forensic Sciences in 2022)

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