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Trevissoi F, Franchetti G, Fais P, Gabbin A, Giovannini E, Martini N, Sech M, Todesco G, Pizzi M, De Conti G, Giraudo C, Viel G, Cecchetto G. Detection of butterfly fractures of long bones through multi-slice computed tomography and micro-computed tomography. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102394. [PMID: 38217997 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2024.102394] [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: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Motor-vehicle accidents often result in lower limb injuries with biosseous fractures. The present study aimed at comparing multi-slice computed tomography (MS-CT), micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and external fractography for the analyses of experimentally produced biosseus leg fractures. Briefly, 48 human legs amputated for medical reasons were defleshed and then experimentally fractured using a 3-point dynamic bending model (70,6 J of impact energy at the middle of the anterior surface of the tibia) producing 38 biosseous and 10 mono-osseous fractures with a total of 86 fractured bones. External fractography detected 63 (73,2%) "butterfly" fractures (24 (27,9%) complete and 39 (45,3%) incomplete), 14 (16,3%) "oblique" fractures, 6 (7,0%) "comminuted" fractures and 3 (3,5%) "transverse" fractures. Forty-three (43) of the 48 included legs displayed at least one butterfly fracture located at the tibia or fibula. MS-CT correctly detected and classified 16 complete and 20 incomplete butterfly fractures, failing to properly classify 27 fractures; 19 of these misclassifications led to an interpretative error on the trauma direction (i.e., 16 incomplete butterfly fractures classified as oblique fractures and 3 incomplete butterfly fractures classified as transverse). Micro-CT correctly detected and classified 22 complete and 37 incomplete butterfly fractures, failing to properly classify 4 fractures; two of these misclassifications led to an interpretative error on the trauma direction (i.e., two incomplete butterfly fractures classified as oblique fractures). Although further studies evaluating a wider number of fractures and fracture patterns are required to drive any definitive conclusions, this preliminary experimental investigation showed that MS-CT and micro-CT represent useful tools for reconstructing the morphology of leg fractures and could be crucial for trauma analysis in the forensic context. MS-CT could be used as a screening tool, micro-CT as second level analysis and external/internal fractography as third level, confirmatory analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Trevissoi
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgia Franchetti
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Fais
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Gabbin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Elena Giovannini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Nicolò Martini
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Maria Sech
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giorgia Todesco
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Pizzi
- Radiology Unit, University-Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio De Conti
- Radiology Unit, University-Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Radiology, University of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Guido Viel
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100, Padova, Italy.
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Secco L, Padalino P, Franceschetto L, Viero A, Pizzi M, De Conti G, Viel G, Fais P, Giraudo C, Cecchetto G. Micro-CT evaluation of morphological degenerative features of sterno-clavicular joint for age-at-death estimation in forensic anthropology - A qualitative analysis. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102374. [PMID: 38157674 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102374] [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: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The analysis of the sternoclavicular joint holds significant importance in forensic anthropology, especially through the evaluation of medial clavicular ossification stage, which, however, is helpful only in subjects younger than 30 years of age. Given this limitation, the aim of the present work was to examine, through micro-CT, the surface of sternoclavicular joints of deceased individuals across various age groups, aiming to identify age-related degenerative changes applicable to age estimation in adults over 30 years old. A total of 41 deceased subjects were categorized into three age groups (20-39 years; 40-59 years; ≥60 years) for the analysis. Degenerative morphological features on both clavicular and sternal articular surfaces, including topography, porosity, and presence of osteophytes, were evaluated using a composite scoring system based on a modified "Falys-Prangle method.", which assigns to each parameter specific score ranges: 1-3 for surface topography (smooth, slightly irregular, markedly irregular), 1-6 for porosity (absent, micro- and macroporosity for <50 % or >50 % of surface, surface breakdown), 1-3 for osteophytes (absent, present, not evaluable). The findings revealed a positive correlation between degenerative morphological features and age for both clavicular (rs = 0.719) and sternal articular surfaces (rs = 0.750). Additionally, the combined assessment of the clavicle and sternum, or the evaluation of the clavicle alone, exhibited better differentiation among the three age groups. The micro-CT evaluation of degenerative alterations affecting the sternoclavicular joint proves to be a reliable and efficient method for age estimation in adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Secco
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Pasquale Padalino
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Lisa Franceschetto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Alessia Viero
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Marco Pizzi
- Radiology Unit, University-Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Giorgio De Conti
- Radiology Unit, University-Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Guido Viel
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Fais
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Radiology Unit, University-Hospital of Padova, Via Giustiniani 2, 35100 Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, 35100 Padova, Italy.
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Giovannini E, Franchetti G, Ridolfi M, Berardi D, Pelletti G, Gualandi A, Giraudo C, Cecchetto G, Fais P. An unusual case of corpse concealment driven by emotional distress. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2024; 67:102379. [PMID: 38183946 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Corpse concealment involves hiding a body for criminal purposes for many different reasons, such as destroy evidence of a murder or avoid the discovery of the victim. Although defendants could argue that they did not conceal the corpse with any criminal intent, but rather to spare themselves or others from emotional distress or to honor the wishes of the deceased. However, these arguments are often challenging to substantiate, and defendants may encounter significant legal obstacles when attempting to justify their actions. Herein, we report a case involving the concealment of a woman's corpse by her father. Autopsy and histological investigations were significantly limited due to the advanced decomposition of the body. Nevertheless, by integrating these data with radiological findings obtained from total body CT and micro-CT of the larynx-hyoid complex, hanging was deemed the cause of death. Additionally, the psychological evaluation of the father indicated that the act of concealment was motivated by emotions rather than criminal intent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Giovannini
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Giorgia Franchetti
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal, Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, Padova, Italy.
| | - Marcello Ridolfi
- Pediatric and Adult CardioThoracic and Vascular, Oncohematologic and Emergency Radiology Unit. IRCCS Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Italy.
| | | | - Guido Pelletti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Alberto Gualandi
- Institute of Pathology, DAME, University Hospital of Udine, 33100 Udine, UD, Italy.
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal, Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, Padova, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Unit of Legal, Medicine and Toxicology, University of Padova, Via Falloppio 50, Padova, Italy.
| | - Paolo Fais
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Unit of Legal Medicine, University of Bologna, Via Irnerio 49, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
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Papazoglou AS, Karagiannidis E, Liatsos A, Bompoti A, Moysidis DV, Arvanitidis C, Tsolaki F, Tsagkaropoulos S, Theocharis S, Tagarakis G, Michaelson JS, Herrmann MD. Volumetric Tissue Imaging of Surgical Tissue Specimens Using Micro-Computed Tomography: An Emerging Digital Pathology Modality for Nondestructive, Slide-Free Microscopy-Clinical Applications of Digital Pathology in 3 Dimensions. Am J Clin Pathol 2023; 159:242-254. [PMID: 36478204 DOI: 10.1093/ajcp/aqac143] [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: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is a novel, nondestructive, slide-free digital imaging modality that enables the acquisition of high-resolution, volumetric images of intact surgical tissue specimens. The aim of this systematic mapping review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the available literature on clinical applications of micro-CT tissue imaging and to assess its relevance and readiness for pathology practice. METHODS A computerized literature search was performed in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and CENTRAL databases. To gain insight into regulatory and financial considerations for performing and examining micro-CT imaging procedures in a clinical setting, additional searches were performed in medical device databases. RESULTS Our search identified 141 scientific articles published between 2000 and 2021 that described clinical applications of micro-CT tissue imaging. The number of relevant publications is progressively increasing, with the specialties of pulmonology, cardiology, otolaryngology, and oncology being most commonly concerned. The included studies were mostly performed in pathology departments. Current micro-CT devices have already been cleared for clinical use, and a Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) code exists for reimbursement of micro-CT imaging procedures. CONCLUSIONS Micro-CT tissue imaging enables accurate volumetric measurements and evaluations of entire surgical specimens at microscopic resolution across a wide range of clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Efstratios Karagiannidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Alexandros Liatsos
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Andreana Bompoti
- Diagnostic Imaging, Peterborough City Hospital, North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, Peterborough, UK
| | - Dimitrios V Moysidis
- First Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos Arvanitidis
- Institute of Marine Biology, Biotechnology and Aquaculture, Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, Heraklion, Crete, Greece.,LifeWatch ERIC, Sector II-II, Seville, Spain
| | - Fani Tsolaki
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | - Stamatios Theocharis
- First Department of Pathology, National and Kapoditrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgios Tagarakis
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - James S Michaelson
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Markus D Herrmann
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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Baldino G, Mondello C, Sapienza D, Stassi C, Asmundo A, Gualniera P, Vanin S, Ventura Spagnolo E. Multidisciplinary Forensic Approach in " Complex" Bodies: Systematic Review and Procedural Proposal. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020310. [PMID: 36673120 PMCID: PMC9857883 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The recovery of severely altered cadavers (i.e., extensively decomposed, mummified, charred or dismembered) can be a challenge for forensic pathologists due to the difficulties in identification, PMI estimation and manner and cause of death determination. In such cases, integrating routine approaches (autopsy, histology, toxicology) to more specific forensic branches can be fundamental to improving the investigative process. In this paper a systematic review using PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases has been performed. The aim was to evaluate the forensic approaches implemented in the management of severely altered bodies due to decomposition, mummification, skeletonization, charring or dismemberment (to which we refer to as "complex"), and the role of each approach in the solution of a case. Then, the literature revision results were used to propose a schematic flowchart summarizing the post mortem activities that can be performed in forensic practice, adaptable in relation to each case.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gennaro Baldino
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.B.); (E.V.S.); Tel.: +39-343944052 (G.B.); +39-3496465532 (E.V.S.)
| | - Cristina Mondello
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Daniela Sapienza
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Chiara Stassi
- Legal Medicine Section, Department for Health Promotion and Mother-Child Care, University of Palermo, Via del Vespro, 129, 90127 Palermo, Italy
| | - Alessio Asmundo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Patrizia Gualniera
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
| | - Stefano Vanin
- Department of Earth, Environmental and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genoa, 16132 Genoa, Italy
| | - Elvira Ventura Spagnolo
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 1, 98125 Messina, Italy
- Correspondence: (G.B.); (E.V.S.); Tel.: +39-343944052 (G.B.); +39-3496465532 (E.V.S.)
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Franchetti G, Viel G, Fais P, Fichera G, Cecchin D, Cecchetto G, Giraudo C. Forensic applications of micro-computed tomography: a systematic review. Clin Transl Imaging 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s40336-022-00510-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this systematic review was to provide a comprehensive overview of micro-CT current applications in forensic pathology, anthropology, odontology, and neonatology.
Methods
A bibliographic research on the electronic databases Pubmed and Scopus was conducted in the time frame 01/01/2001–31/12/2021 without any language restrictions and applying the following free-text search strategy: “(micro-computed tomography OR micro-CT) AND (forensic OR legal)”. The following inclusion criteria were used: (A) English language; (B) Application of micro-CT to biological and/or non-biological materials to address at least one forensic issue (e.g., age estimation, identification of post-mortem interval). The papers selected by three independent investigators have been then classified according to the investigated materials.
Results
The bibliographic search provided 651 records, duplicates excluded. After screening for title and/or abstracts, according to criteria A and B, 157 full-text papers were evaluated for eligibility. Ninety-three papers, mostly (64) published between 2017 and 2021, were included; considering that two papers investigated several materials, an overall amount of 99 classifiable items was counted when referring to the materials investigated. It emerged that bones and cartilages (54.55%), followed by teeth (13.13%), were the most frequently analyzed materials. Moreover, micro-CT allowed the collection of structural, qualitative and/or quantitative information also for soft tissues, fetuses, insects, and foreign materials.
Conclusion
Forensic applications of micro-CT progressively increased in the last 5 years with very promising results. According to this evidence, we might expect in the near future a shift of its use from research purposes to clinical forensic cases.
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Gascho D, Bolliger SA, Thali MJ. CT and MRI of a transcardiac gunshot wound with an annular distribution of bullet fragments surrounding an exit-re-entrance wound after the bullet burst from a floor tile upon exiting the lying body. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 77:102087. [PMID: 33249345 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102087] [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: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
This case report describes medicolegal examinations of a decedent with a fatal gunshot wound. The decedent lied on the floor as a bullet was fired into his chest. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed as part of the judicial investigation. The MRI examination was valuable for delineating the wound channel through the left ventricle, which was deemed the main cause for internal bleeding and fatal blood loss. The diagnostic value of CT for the detection of injuries was low in this case. However, CT allowed for the virtual investigation of bullet fragments. According to CT-based dual-energy index calculations, it could be inferred that the fragments were most likely made of lead matching .357 Magnum R-P cartridges that were found at the scene. The bullet fragments were located underneath the skin at the suspected exit wound. The exit wound was actually an exit-re-entrance wound, as it can be assumed that the fragments re-entered the body after the bullet burst from hard ground upon exiting the body of the decedent, who was lying on the floor. CT visualized an uncommon annular distribution pattern for the bullet fragments surrounding the exit-re-entrance wound. The formation of such an annular distribution pattern of bullet fragments and the relevant conclusions that may be drawn from such a distribution pattern are discussed in this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dominic Gascho
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Stephan A Bolliger
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael J Thali
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Lukefahr AL, Vollner JM, Anderson BE, Winston DC. Radiodense bullet wipe around osseous entrance gunshot wounds. J Forensic Sci 2020; 66:229-235. [PMID: 32970851 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14558] [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: 05/11/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
"Bullet wipe" is the material deposited by a bullet on any surface with which it comes into contact after it is fired and may contain debris from the gun barrel, including particles of primer and metal fragments from previously fired bullets. X-ray analysis is a non-destructive method by which traces of metallic elements can be visually detected. The analysis of osseous defects for radiodense bullet wipe (RBW) assists in determining the presence or absence of perforating gunshot wounds, especially in fragmented, skeletonized remains. The aim of our current study was to determine the frequency of RBW around entrance firearms injuries that perforated bone. We prospectively analyzed entrance gunshot wounds for RBW over a three-year period using digital X-ray analysis (n = 59). We retrospectively reviewed the corresponding autopsy reports to determine the frequency of RBW by biologic sex, reported ancestry, age-at-death, location of wound, manner of death, range of fire, bullet caliber, and presence of bullet jacket. Data were analyzed by Fisher's exact test or Chi-square test with significance levels accepted at p < 0.05. RBW was present in 66% (n = 39) of examined cases. Decedent characteristics did not significantly alter RBW distribution, including biologic sex (p = 0.75), reported ancestry (p = 0.49), and age-at-death (p = 0.43). Additionally, the location of the osseous entrance gunshot wound, manner of death, range of fire, and cartridge caliber did not affect RBW detection. All cases involving non-jacketed rounds (n = 5) showed RBW (p = 0.30). To our knowledge, this study is the first to report the frequency of RBW detection from osseous entrance gunshot wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley L Lukefahr
- Banner University Medical Center -Tucson, Tucson, Arizona, USA.,Department of Pathology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Jennifer M Vollner
- Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner, Tucson, Arizona, USA.,The University of Arizona School of Anthropology, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - Bruce E Anderson
- Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner, Tucson, Arizona, USA.,The University of Arizona School of Anthropology, Tucson, Arizona, USA
| | - David C Winston
- Department of Pathology, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA.,Pima County Office of the Medical Examiner, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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Homicide and concealment of the corpse. Autopsy case series and review of the literature. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:193-205. [PMID: 32474664 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02313-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The concealment of the body following a homicide undermines different moments of the forensic and medico-legal investigations. The aim of the present study is to provide an overview of the literature and the forensic casuistry of the Institute of Legal Medicine of Padova for analyzing and discussing diverse methodological approaches for the forensic pathologist dealing with covered-up homicides. MATERIAL AND METHODS A literature review, updated until September 2019, was performed, and a literature pool of forensic cases was built. In-house cases were included by conducting a retrospective analysis of the forensic caseworks of Padova of the last 20 years. Data regarding epidemiology, methodology of assessment, methods of concealment, and answers to medico-legal issues were extracted for both data sets. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Seventy-eight papers were included in the literature review (78.2% being case reports or case series, 17% retrospective studies, and 6% experimental studies or reviews). Literature and in-house data sets consisted of 145 and 13 cases, respectively. Death scene investigation, radiology, toxicology, and additional analyses were performed in 20-54% of literature and 62-77% of in-house cases. Cover-up by multiple methods prevailed. Death was caused by head trauma in about 40% of cases (both data sets), strangulation in 21% of literature, and 7% of in-house cases, and was undetermined in 17% of literature and 7% of in-house cases. CONCLUSIONS The methodology of ascertainment should be case-specific and based on a multidisciplinary and multimodal evaluation of all data, including those gained through novel radiological and/or analytical techniques.
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10
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Radiological investigation of gunshot wounds: a systematic review of published evidence. Int J Legal Med 2019; 133:1149-1158. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02071-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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11
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Pelletti G, Cecchetto G, Viero A, Fais P, Weber M, Miotto D, Montisci M, Viel G, Giraudo C. Accuracy, precision and inter-rater reliability of micro-CT analysis of false starts on bones. A preliminary validation study. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2017; 29:38-43. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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12
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Deguette C, Ramond-Roquin A, Rougé-Maillart C. Relationships between age and microarchitectural descriptors of iliac trabecular bone determined by microCT. Morphologie 2017; 101:64-70. [PMID: 28495330 DOI: 10.1016/j.morpho.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2016] [Revised: 03/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Estimation of age at death is a major issue in anthropology. The main anthropological histological methods propose studying the architecture of cortical bone. In bone histomorphometry, researches on metabolic bone diseases have provided normative tables for trabecular bone volume (BV/TV) according to age and gender of individuals on trans-iliac bone biopsies. We have used microCT, a non-destructive tool for measuring bone volume and trabecular descriptors to compare the French tables to a series of forensic anthropological population and if the two iliac bones could be used interchangeably. METHODOLOGY Coxal bone of a personal forensic collection whose age and gender were known (DNA identification) were used. Bone samples, centered on the same area than bone biopsy. MicroCT (pixel size: 36μm) was used to measure BV/TV and morphometric trabecular parameters of microarchitecture. An adjusted Z-score was calculated for BV/TV to compare with normative tables and a right/left comparison of trabecular parameters was provided. RESULTS Twenty-seven iliac bones, which 20 forming 10 complete pelvises, aged between 24 and 73y.o. (average of 47.7 y.o.) were used. All adjusted Z-score were within normal values. There was a strong positive correlation between right and left sides for Tb.Th, Tb.N and Tb.Sp, but an insignificant correlation was obtained for BV/TV. CONCLUSION Normative tables between age and BV/TV are valid and therefore usable in anthropology. They may represent an alternative to determine the age at death. Nevertheless, it requires a precise technique that could be a drawback in current practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Deguette
- Urgences médico-judiciaires, hôpital Hôtel-Dieu, hôpitaux universitaires Paris centre, AP-HP, 1, place du Parvis-Notre-Dame, 75004 Paris, France.
| | - A Ramond-Roquin
- Département de médecine générale, université d'Angers, LUNAM université, 1, rue Haute-de-Reculée, 49045 Angers cedex 01, France; Laboratoire d'ergonomie et d'épidémiologie en santé au travail (LEEST), département de medicine, UA santé publique France, université d'Angers, LUNAM université, 1, rue Haute-de-Reculée, 49045 Angers cedex 01, France
| | - C Rougé-Maillart
- Service de médecine légale, LUNAM université, CHU d'Angers, 4, rue Larrey, 49100 Angers, France
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Hutchinson JC, Shelmerdine SC, Simcock IC, Sebire NJ, Arthurs OJ. Early clinical applications for imaging at microscopic detail: microfocus computed tomography (micro-CT). Br J Radiol 2017; 90:20170113. [PMID: 28368658 DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20170113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Microfocus CT (micro-CT) has traditionally been used in industry and preclinical studies, although it may find new applicability in the routine clinical setting. It can provide high-resolution three-dimensional digital imaging data sets to the same level of detail as microscopic examination without the need for tissue dissection. Micro-CT is already enabling non-invasive detailed internal assessment of various tissue specimens, particularly in breast imaging and early gestational fetal autopsy, not previously possible from more conventional modalities such as MRI or CT. In this review, we discuss the technical aspects behind micro-CT image acquisition, how early work with small animal studies have informed our knowledge of human disease and the imaging performed so far on human tissue specimens. We conclude with potential future clinical applications of this novel and emerging technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ciaran Hutchinson
- 1 Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,2 UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Susan C Shelmerdine
- 2 UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,3 Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ian C Simcock
- 2 UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,3 Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Neil J Sebire
- 1 Department of Histopathology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,2 UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Owen J Arthurs
- 2 UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK.,3 Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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14
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Micro-computed tomography of false starts produced on bone by different hand-saws. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2017; 26:1-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2017.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2016] [Revised: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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15
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Ferrara SD, Cecchetto G, Cecchi R, Favretto D, Grabherr S, Ishikawa T, Kondo T, Montisci M, Pfeiffer H, Bonati MR, Shokry D, Vennemann M, Bajanowski T. Back to the Future - Part 2. Post-mortem assessment and evolutionary role of the bio-medicolegal sciences. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:1085-1101. [PMID: 28444439 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Part 2 of the review "Back to the Future" is dedicated to the evolutionary role of the bio-medicolegal sciences, reporting the historical profiles, the state of the art, and prospects for future development of the main related techniques and methods of the ancillary disciplines that have risen to the role of "autonomous" sciences, namely, Genetics and Genomics, Toxicology, Radiology, and Imaging, involved in historic synergy in the "post-mortem assessment," together with the mother discipline Legal Medicine, by way of its primary fundament, universally denominated as Forensic Pathology. The evolution of the scientific research and the increased accuracy of the various disciplines will be oriented towards the elaboration of an "algorithm," able to weigh the value of "evidence" placed at the disposal of the "justice system" as real truth and proof.
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Affiliation(s)
- Santo Davide Ferrara
- Department of Legal and Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Public Health, University-Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy.
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Legal and Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Public Health, University-Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Rossana Cecchi
- Department of Biomedical, Biotechnological and Translational Medicine, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Donata Favretto
- Department of Legal and Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Public Health, University-Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Silke Grabherr
- University Center of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Takaki Ishikawa
- Department of Legal Medicine, Osaka City University Medical School, Osaka, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Kondo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Massimo Montisci
- Department of Legal and Occupational Medicine, Toxicology and Public Health, University-Hospital of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Heidi Pfeiffer
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University-Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Maurizio Rippa Bonati
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Section of Medical Humanities, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Dina Shokry
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Clinical Toxicology, University of Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marielle Vennemann
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University-Hospital Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Thomas Bajanowski
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University-Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
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16
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Micro-CT features of intermediate gunshot wounds covered by textiles. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1257-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1403-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 06/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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17
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Identification of bullet entrance in different type of intermediate firearm wounds through micro-computed tomography analysis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2015.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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18
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Viero A, Giraudo C, Cecchetto G, Muscovich C, Favretto D, Puglisi M, Fais P, Viel G. An unusual case of "dyadic-death" with a single gunshot. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 244:e1-5. [PMID: 25194714 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Revised: 08/01/2014] [Accepted: 08/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The terms "dyadic death" or "murder-suicide" refer to an incident where an individual commits homicide and then takes his or her own life. These events are generally committed by men within the family network, using firearms or sharp force instruments, and make up a relatively small proportion of homicides overall. Herein, we present the application of post-mortem multislice computed tomography (CT) and micro-CT analysis to an unusual case of dyadic death, where a 38-year-old man fired a single gunshot to his own right temple, killing himself and his 50-year-old wife, lying on the bed beside him. The integration of radiological, autoptic and histological data allowed us to reconstruct the trajectory of the gunshot, the most probable dynamics of the event, and to classify the incident as a "suicide-homicide", because the female victim died a few minutes later than her husband and murderer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Viero
- Department of Cardiological, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Via Falloppio, 50, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Giraudo
- Department of Medicine-DIMED, Radiology Section, Via Giustiniani, 2, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cecchetto
- Department of Cardiological, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Via Falloppio, 50, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | | | - Donata Favretto
- Department of Cardiological, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Via Falloppio, 50, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Massimo Puglisi
- Medico Legal Expert of the State Police Office, "Questura di Padova", Piazzetta G. Palatucci, 5, 35123 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Fais
- Unit of Forensic Medicine, Department of Public Health and Community, University of Verona, Policlinico G.B. Rossi, Piazzale L.A. Scuro, 10, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Guido Viel
- Department of Cardiological, Thoracic and Vascular Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Via Falloppio, 50, 35121 Padova, Italy.
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