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Adams KS, Finaughty DA, Gibbon VE. Forensic taphonomic experimental design matters: a study assessing clothing and carrion biomass load on scavenging in Cape Town, South Africa. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:1669-1684. [PMID: 38374286 PMCID: PMC11164742 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03171-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024]
Abstract
The identification of unknown human remains is a significant and ongoing challenge in South Africa, worsened by the country's high murder rate. The rate of decomposition in South Africa is significantly influenced by vertebrate scavenging, which, if not considered, can impede the accurate estimation of the post-mortem interval. Scavenging patterns vary greatly depending on the environment and ecological region, and there is limited data for the Western Cape province. To address this gap, two clothed and uncaged pig carcasses weighing 60 kg each were placed in the field in July 2021 and January 2022, respectively. Motion-activated infrared-capable trail cameras were used to observe decomposition, scavenger species, and their activities. Additionally, a comparative sample of 16 unclothed carcasses deployed between 2014 and 2016 in the same habitat were analyzed to assess the impact of clothing and biomass load. The study found three main results: (1) Regardless of habitat or biomass load, it took significantly less time to reach decomposition milestones (25%, 50%, and 75%) during the summer season; (2) the presence of mongoose scavengers had a greater impact on the time required to reach milestones during winter compared to summer; and (3) single carcass deployments reached the milestones faster than multi-carcass deployments in both seasons. This research highlights the potential inaccuracy of current methods for estimating the post-mortem interval when scavenging activity is not considered or documented in the underlying experimental data, particularly for environments or ecological biomes where scavengers actively impact decomposition rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kara Sierra Adams
- Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, Department of Human Biology, Anatomy Building, Level 5, Room 5.14, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, , Anzio Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
| | - Devin Alexander Finaughty
- Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, Department of Human Biology, Anatomy Building, Level 5, Room 5.14, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, , Anzio Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, Division of Natural Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Victoria Elaine Gibbon
- Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, Department of Human Biology, Anatomy Building, Level 5, Room 5.14, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, , Anzio Rd, Observatory, Cape Town, 7925, South Africa.
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2
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Bone MS, Legrand TPRA, Harvey ML, Wos-Oxley ML, Oxley APA. Aquatic conditions & bacterial communities as drivers of the decomposition of submerged remains. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 361:112072. [PMID: 38838610 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112072] [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: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
Aquatic decomposition, as a forensic discipline, has been largely under-investigated as a consequence of the highly complex and influential variability of the water environment. The limitation to the adaptability of scenario specific results justifies the necessity for experimental research to increase our understanding of the aquatic environment and the development of post-mortem submersion interval (PMSI) methods of estimation. This preliminary research aims to address this contextual gap by assessing the variation in the bacterial composition of aquatic biofilms as explained by water parameter measurements over time, associated with clothed and bare decomposing remains. As part of three field investigations, a total of 9 still-born piglets (n = 3, per trial) were used as human analogues and were submerged bare or clothed in either natural cotton or synthetic nylon. Changes in the bacterial community composition of the water surrounding the submerged remains were assessed at 4 discrete time points post submersion (7, 14, 21 and 28 days) by 16 S rRNA gene Next Generation Sequencing analysis and compared to coinciding water parameter measurements (i.e. conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen (DO)). Bacterial diversity was found to change over time and relative to clothing type, where significant variation was observed between synthetic nylon samples and bare/cotton samples. Seasonality was a major driver of bacterial diversity, where substantial variation was found between samples collected in early winter to those collected in mid - late winter. Water parameter measures of pH, salinity and DO were identified to best explain the global bacterial community composition and their corresponding dynamic trajectory patterns overtime. Further investigation into bacterial community dynamics in accordance with varying environmental conditions could potentially lead to the determination of influential extrinsic factors that may drive bacterial activity in aquatic decomposition. Together with the identification of potential bacterial markers that complement the different stages of decomposition, this may provide a future approach to PMSI estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madison S Bone
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia.
| | | | - Michelle L Harvey
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
| | | | - Andrew P A Oxley
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3216, Australia
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Iancu L, Bonicelli A, Procopio N. Decomposition in an extreme cold environment and associated microbiome-prediction model implications for the postmortem interval estimation. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1392716. [PMID: 38803371 PMCID: PMC11128606 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1392716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The accurate estimation of postmortem interval (PMI), the time between death and discovery of the body, is crucial in forensic science investigations as it impacts legal outcomes. PMI estimation in extremely cold environments becomes susceptible to errors and misinterpretations, especially with prolonged PMIs. This study addresses the lack of data on decomposition in extreme cold by providing the first overview of decomposition in such settings. Moreover, it proposes the first postmortem microbiome prediction model for PMI estimation in cold environments, applicable even when the visual decomposition is halted. Methods The experiment was conducted on animal models in the second-coldest region in the United States, Grand Forks, North Dakota, and covered 23 weeks, including the winter months with temperatures as low as -39°C. Random Forest analysis models were developed to estimate the PMI based either uniquely on 16s rRNA gene microbial data derived from nasal swabs or based on both microbial data and measurable environmental parameters such as snow depth and outdoor temperatures, on a total of 393 samples. Results Among the six developed models, the best performing one was the complex model based on both internal and external swabs. It achieved a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 1.36 weeks and an R2 value of 0.91. On the other hand, the worst performing model was the minimal one that relied solely on external swabs. It had an MAE of 2.89 weeks and an R2 of 0.73. Furthermore, among the six developed models, the commonly identified predictors across at least five out of six models included the following genera: Psychrobacter (ASV1925 and ASV1929), Carnobacterium (ASV2872) and Pseudomonas (ASV1863). Discussion The outcome of this research provides the first microbial model able to predict PMI with an accuracy of 9.52 days over a six-month period of extreme winter conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lavinia Iancu
- Department of Criminal Justice, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND, United States
| | - Andrea Bonicelli
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, Preston, United Kingdom
| | - Noemi Procopio
- Research Centre for Field Archaeology and Forensic Taphonomy, School of Law and Policing, Preston, United Kingdom
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McIntyre DB, Dawson BM, Long BM, Barton PS. A review of multi-disciplinary decomposition research and key drivers of variation in decay. Int J Legal Med 2024:10.1007/s00414-024-03222-2. [PMID: 38622312 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03222-2] [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: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
The decomposition of animal remains is a multifaceted process, involving ecological, biological, and chemical interactions. While the complexity is acknowledged through concepts like the necrobiome, it's unclear if this complexity is reflected in research. Appreciation of the complexity of decomposition is crucial for identifying sources of variation in estimations of time since death in medico-legal science, as well as building broader ecological knowledge of the decomposition process. To gain insights into the extent of multidisciplinary research in the field of decomposition science, we conducted an examination of peer-reviewed literature on four key drivers of variation: volatile organic compounds, microbes, drugs/toxins, and insects. Among 650 articles, we identified their scientific discipline, driver/s of variation investigated, and year of publication. We found that 19% explored relationships between two drivers, while only 4% investigated interactions between three. None considered all four drivers. Over the past three decades, there has been a steady increase in decomposition research publications, signifying its growing importance. Most research (79%) was linked to forensic science, highlighting opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in decomposition science. Overall, our review underscores the need to incorporate multidisciplinary approaches and theory into contemporary decomposition research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna B McIntyre
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University, Mount Helen, VIC, 3350, Australia.
- Graduate Research School, Federation University, Mount Helen, VIC, 3350, Australia.
| | - Blake M Dawson
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia
| | - Benjamin M Long
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University, Mount Helen, VIC, 3350, Australia
| | - Philip S Barton
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University, Mount Helen, VIC, 3350, Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia
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5
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Bagsby K, Stern AW, Hans KR. Feline Forensics: Revealing the Unique Decomposition of Cats. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:996. [PMID: 38612235 PMCID: PMC11011198 DOI: 10.3390/ani14070996] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Limited data about the differences between the decomposition of animals with fur exist within the forensic veterinary medicine discipline. Due to the sheer number of animals used as animal models and the number of animals that exist, determining stages of decomposition that are applicable for all species is difficult. Typically, assessing what stage of decomposition a decedent is in is subjective due to the visual assessment of decomposition changes. A method developed to rectify this issue was the total body score (TBS) method, which assigns a numerical value based on the degree of decomposition to the head, torso, and limbs. The purpose of this study was to examine the decomposition of cats, identify any unique decomposition characteristics, and determine the rate of decomposition using total body score and accumulated degree days (ADDs). Twelve domestic short-haired cats were placed in a grassy field in West Lafayette, IN. An assessment of TBS was documented for each cat and each experimental group. An exponential relationship between TBS and ADD was documented. Overall, there was not a significant difference in the rate of decomposition or total body scores between the groups (Z = -91.00, p = 0.0672).
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Bagsby
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, 901 W State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
- College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Adam W. Stern
- College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA;
| | - Krystal R. Hans
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, 901 W State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
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Mashaly A, Al-Khalifa MS. Exploring the ethical dimensions in forensic entomology: From codes of conduct to professional accountability. Sci Justice 2024; 64:243-249. [PMID: 38431381 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2024.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
This article investigates a critical part of professional careers: adhering to a code of ethics that defines proper behavior within the context of one's specialized practice. It aims to improve the setting of forensic entomology work by highlighting the ethical issues that frequently emerge. The primary goal is to uncover common ethical issues involved in this field's everyday activities and provide informed advice on appropriate resolution options. This investigation dives into the complex interaction of religious beliefs, cultural aspects, and issues of ethics, evaluating their relevance in forensic entomology. It examines a wide range of ethical issues, from the ethics involved in collecting samples at crime scenes and morguesto the ethics created into scientific investigations, report writing, and court testimony. These guiding principles are critical in setting scientific standards and building public trust in forensic entomology's ability to provide exceptional services. Notably, regardless of whether the forensic entomology service provider is accredited by any validating organization, these ethical requirements remain critical, emphasizing their global application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashraf Mashaly
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Minia University, El Minia 61519, Egypt.
| | - Mohammed S Al-Khalifa
- Department of Zoology, College of Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Dawson BM, Ueland M, Carter DO, Mclntyre D, Barton PS. Bridging the gap between decomposition theory and forensic research on postmortem interval. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:509-518. [PMID: 37491634 PMCID: PMC10861637 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03060-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023]
Abstract
Knowledge of the decomposition of vertebrate animals has advanced considerably in recent years and revealed complex interactions among biological and environmental factors that affect rates of decay. Yet this complexity remains to be fully incorporated into research or models of the postmortem interval (PMI). We suggest there is both opportunity and a need to use recent advances in decomposition theory to guide forensic research and its applications to understanding the PMI. Here we synthesise knowledge of the biological and environmental factors driving variation in decomposition and the acknowledged limitations among current models of the PMI. To guide improvement in this area, we introduce a conceptual framework that highlights the multiple interdependencies affecting decay rates throughout the decomposition process. Our framework reinforces the need for a multidisciplinary approach to PMI research, and calls for an adaptive research cycle that aims to reduce uncertainty in PMI estimates via experimentation, modelling, and validation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake M Dawson
- School of Environmental and Rural Science, University of New England, Armidale, NSW, 2350, Australia.
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - David O Carter
- Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI, 96822, USA
| | - Donna Mclntyre
- Graduate Research School, Federation University, Mount Helen, Ballarat, VIC, 3350, Australia
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University, Mount Helen, Ballarat, VIC, 3350, Australia
| | - Philip S Barton
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University, Mount Helen, Ballarat, VIC, 3350, Australia
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC, 3216, Australia
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8
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Bambaradeniya TB, Magni PA, Dadour IR. Morphological changes of larvae and pupae of Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) reared at two temperatures and on three food types. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2024:tjae013. [PMID: 38408081 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjae013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Determining the minimum postmortem interval (minPMI) from an entomological perspective relies mainly on development data recorded for various species of flies collected from a crime scene or suspicious death. This study focused on the larval and pupal development of Lucilia sericata (Meigen), with an emphasis on the changes of the external morphology of the puparium and its pupal content throughout the duration of metamorphosis. Colonies of L. sericata were reared on 3 types of swine tissue (skeletal muscle, liver tissue, and heart tissue) at 2 different temperature regimes; 24 ± 1 °C and 30 ± 1 °C. The overall developmental time, larval width and length, and inner and outer pupal morphology changes were observed and recorded. The results show that: (i) temperature significantly influenced overall development time, as well as changes in larval width and length, but this effect was not dependent on tissue type; (ii) larval development duration was longest on heart tissue, and shortest on skeletal muscle for both temperatures; and (iii) pupation was longest for larvae reared on skeletal muscle at 24 ± 1 °C, and on liver tissue at 30 ± 1 °C, while those larvae reared on liver tissue at 24 ± 1 °C and heart tissue at 30 ± 1 °C had the shortest pupation period. A seven-character checklist plus 4 landmark stages were developed comprising the external morphology of the puparium and pupal content changes of L. sericata. In conclusion, the study provides larval and pupal development timetables, as well as checklists and photo guides for pupal character development that may be useful for future postmortem determinations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Paola Annarosa Magni
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Ian Robert Dadour
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
- Source Certain International, PO Box 1570 Wangara, DC, Western Australia, Australia
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9
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Weisensee KE, Tica CI, Atwell MM, Ehrett C, Smith DH, Carbajales-Dale P, Claflin P, Nisbet N. geoFOR: A collaborative forensic taphonomy database for estimating the postmortem interval. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 355:111934. [PMID: 38277912 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111934] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Accurately assessing the postmortem interval (PMI), or the time since death, remains elusive within forensic science research and application. This paper introduces geoFOR, a web-based collaborative application that utilizes ArcGIS and machine learning to deliver improved PMI predictions. The geoFOR application provides a standardized, collaborative forensic taphonomy database that gives practitioners a readily available tool to enter case information that automates the collection of environmental data and delivers a PMI prediction using statistically robust methods. After case submission, the cross-validating machine learning PMI predictive model results in a R² value of 0.82. Contributors receive a predicted PMI with an 80% confidence interval. The geoFOR database currently contains 2529 entries from across the U.S. and includes cases from medicolegal investigations and longitudinal studies from human decomposition facilities. We present the overall findings of the data collected so far and compare results from medicolegal cases and longitudinal studies to highlight previously poorly understood limitations involved in the difficult task of PMI estimation. This novel approach for building a reference dataset of human decomposition is forensically and geographically representative of the realities in which human remains are discovered which allows for continual improvement of PMI estimations as more data is captured. It is our goal that the geoFOR data repository follow the principles of Open Science and be made available to forensic researchers to test, refine, and improve PMI models. Mass collaboration and data sharing can ultimately address enduring issues associated with accurately estimating the PMI within medicolegal death investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Weisensee
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA.
| | - Cristina I Tica
- Department of Anthropology and Applied Archaeology, Eastern New Mexico University, Portales, NM, USA
| | - Madeline M Atwell
- Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Carl Ehrett
- Watt Family Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - D Hudson Smith
- Watt Family Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | | | - Patrick Claflin
- Clemson Center for Geospatial Technologies, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
| | - Noah Nisbet
- Watt Family Innovation Center, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, USA
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10
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Abu Yosef R, Sultan K, Mobashsher AT, Zare F, Mills PC, Abbosh A. Shielded Cone Coil Array for Non-Invasive Deep Brain Magnetic Stimulation. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:32. [PMID: 38248409 PMCID: PMC10813362 DOI: 10.3390/bios14010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Non-invasive deep brain stimulation using transcranial magnetic stimulation is a promising technique for treating several neurological disorders, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. However, the currently used coils do not demonstrate the required stimulation performance in deep regions of the brain, such as the hippocampus, due to the rapid decay of the field inside the head. This study proposes an array that uses the cone coil method for deep stimulation. This study investigates the impact of magnetic core and shielding on field strength, focality, decay rate, and safety. The coil's size and shape effects on the electric field distribution in deep brain areas are also examined. The finite element method is used to calculate the induced electric field in a realistic human head model. The simulation results indicate that the magnetic core and shielding increase the electric field intensity and enhance focality but do not improve the field decay rate. However, the decay rate can be reduced by increasing the coil size at the expense of focality. By adopting an optimum cone structure, the proposed five-coil array reduces the electric field attenuation rate to reach the stimulation threshold in deep regions while keeping all other regions within safety limits. In vitro and in vivo experimental results using a head phantom and a dead pig's head validate the simulated results and confirm that the proposed design is a reliable and efficient candidate for non-invasive deep brain magnetic stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Abu Yosef
- The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (R.A.Y.); (F.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Kamel Sultan
- The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (R.A.Y.); (F.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Ahmed Toaha Mobashsher
- The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (R.A.Y.); (F.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Firuz Zare
- The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (R.A.Y.); (F.Z.); (A.A.)
| | - Paul C. Mills
- The School of Veterinary Science, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia;
| | - Amin Abbosh
- The School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia; (R.A.Y.); (F.Z.); (A.A.)
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11
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Bagsby K, Hans K. Lucilia silvarum Meigen (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Is a Primary Colonizer of Domestic Cats ( Felis catus). INSECTS 2024; 15:32. [PMID: 38249038 PMCID: PMC10815950 DOI: 10.3390/insects15010032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Lucilia silvarum Meigen (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is widespread throughout North America and Europe. Described in 1826, this blow fly was quickly associated with myiasis in amphibians, and to date has rarely been reported in carrion. There is limited data regarding the time of colonization of animals with fur and the interpretation of this data is difficult due to variation in the animal models used. During an examination of initial insect colonization of cats (Felis catus) with light and dark fur, twelve domestic short-haired cats were placed in cages 15.2 m apart in a grassy field in West Lafayette, Indiana, USA. Eggs from initial oviposition events were collected and reared to identify the colonizing species. Three species of Lucilia (Diptera: Calliphoridae), including L. silvarum, colonized the cats on the initial day of placement. In this study, L. silvarum was the primary colonizer of cats, and this may be the first study where a large number of L. silvarum were collected. Further studies should include development studies on L. silvarum to understand its life history and aid in time of colonization estimations. More work regarding the colonization of furred mammals is needed to further examine L. silvarum as a primary colonizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Bagsby
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, 901 W State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
- College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA
| | - Krystal Hans
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, 901 W State St., West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
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12
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Adetimehin AD, Mole CG, Finaughty DA, Heyns M. Parasitic and predatory behavior of Alysia manducator (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) on blow fly larvae feeding on an adult pig carcass in the Western Cape Province of South Africa: preliminary observations and forensic implications. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:281-288. [PMID: 37081128 PMCID: PMC10772005 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03001-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
Wasps are part of the entomofauna associated with vertebrate carrion. They are known to parasitize and prey on specific life stages of insect hosts such as eggs, larvae, pupae, and/or adults associated with vertebrate carrion. However, reports of parasitic behavior of wasps on carrion-associated insect life stages and their possible forensic implications are non-existent in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. This study is part of ongoing research investigating the entomofauna and their pattern of succession on an adult pig carcass in Cape Town, South Africa. During this study, the parasitic wasp Alysia manducator was noted parasitizing and preying on blow fly larvae associated with the decomposing carcass. The arrival of A. manducator coincides with the occurrence of blow fly eggs and/or larvae on the carcass. These wasps were seen in close association with the eggs and larvae of blow flies on various parts of the carcass and some wasps were seen dragging fly larvae attached to their ovipositors away from one part of the carcass to another. Some A. manducator were also observed walking over several larvae on the carcass while exhibiting a stabbing behavior presumably in search of a host for oviposition. We suggest that the observations recorded in this study are of considerable forensic importance as the dragging effect and predatory and stabbing behavior exhibited by A. manducator could potentially disrupt the feeding and development of the fly larvae on the carcass. This could subsequently alter the process of carcass decomposition and/or affect minimum post-mortem interval estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeyemi Daniel Adetimehin
- Department of Pathology, Division of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Calvin Gerald Mole
- Department of Pathology, Division of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Devin Alexander Finaughty
- Department of Human Biology, Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Marise Heyns
- Department of Pathology, Division of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Derry/Londonderry, UK
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13
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Matuszewski S, Mądra-Bielewicz A. Field validation of post-mortem interval estimation based on insect development. Part 1: Accuracy gains from the laboratory rearing of insect evidence. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 354:111902. [PMID: 38088001 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111902] [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: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
There is a consensus that forensic methods must be valid. The high quality of the method may be fully demonstrated only through validation. Unfortunately, there are very few experimental or casework validations of entomological methods for estimating post-mortem interval (PMI). Here, we present the first part of the results from the field validation of minimum PMI (PMImin) estimates based on insect development. From eight pig carcasses (24-46.4 kg) exposed in a forest habitat of Western Poland, one every one or two months, we collected insect evidence with standard entomological techniques. Using weather station temperatures and the thermal summation method, PMImin was estimated based on insect life stages that were reared under controlled laboratory conditions. Through rearing an insect until the next developmental landmark (or until eclosion), its age at the time of collection (and eventually PMImin) may be estimated by subtracting thermal accumulation in the laboratory from the corresponding thermal constant. We hypothesized that rearing insect evidence significantly improves the accuracy of PMImin compared to the estimation based on non-reared insect evidence. The results clearly supported this hypothesis. However, the accuracy significantly increased only in the case of these insects that developed normally during rearing. When their development in the laboratory was prolonged, PMImin was significantly less accurate. For the normal development sample the accuracy improved in all species and life stages. The largest accuracy gains from rearing were recorded for Calliphora vomitoria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Stearibia nigriceps (Diptera: Piophilidae). Moreover, when puparia or third instar larvae were reared, gains were larger than in the case of earlier life stages. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the method of rearing insect evidence to improve the accuracy of PMImin is valid. However, it needs to be used with caution, since substantial part of the evidence may die or slow down their development in the laboratory, which violates assumptions of the method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Matuszewski
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Święty Marcin 90, 61-809 Poznań, Poland; Wielkopolska Centre for Advanced Technologies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Anna Mądra-Bielewicz
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Święty Marcin 90, 61-809 Poznań, Poland; Wielkopolska Centre for Advanced Technologies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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14
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Adetimehin AD, Mole CG, Finaughty DA, Heyns M. Caught in the act: impact of Crematogaster cf. liengmei (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) necrophagous behavior on neonate pigs (Sus scrofa domesticus L.) in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:259-266. [PMID: 35524805 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02835-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Ants have been documented as part of the entomo-sarcosaprophagous community. They have been known to alter the process of carcass decomposition due to their ability to feed on fly eggs/larvae and create post-mortem skin injuries. However, studies on the impact of ants on decomposing carcasses are scarce, especially within the Western Cape Province of South Africa. This study was part of a research project that utilized two (2) neonate pig carcasses in each month of the year to establish baseline data on the insect species associated with decomposing carcasses in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. In the early spring (September 2020), mid-autumn (May 2021), and mid-winter (July 2021) trials respectively, several individuals of Crematogaster cf. liengmei colonized the pig carcasses shortly after deployment. There, they fed on the flesh of the carcasses and further inflicted bite marks and conspicuous post-mortem skin lesions. Following the reduction in the presence of Crematogaster cf. liengmei specifically in the mid-winter trial, non-vital bleeding was observed as a consequence of the skin lesions. In the early spring, mid- and late autumn (May 2021), and early (June 2021) and mid-winter trials respectively, Crematogaster cf. liengmei prevented the formation of large maggot masses, principally through the predation of fly eggs, larvae, and adults. The observations recorded in this study are of considerable importance in forensic investigations as the effect of the necrophagous behavior of Crematogaster cf. liengmei on decomposing remains can be misinterpreted by inexperienced investigators during crime scene investigations and may alter post-mortem interval estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeyemi Daniel Adetimehin
- Division of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Calvin Gerald Mole
- Division of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Devin Alexander Finaughty
- Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, Department of Human Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- School of Anthropology and Conservation, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | - Marise Heyns
- School of Medicine, Ulster University, Derry/Londonderry, UK
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15
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Indra L, Lösch S, Errickson D, Finaughty D. Forensic experiments on animal scavenging: A systematic literature review on what we have and what we need. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 353:111862. [PMID: 37931469 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Vertebrate scavengers frequently affect forensic casework by feeding on human remains or by scattering body parts and bones. Therefore, animal activity can influence complete recovery of bodies, trauma analysis, and the estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI), potentially hampering identification of the deceased and elucidation of the perimortem circumstances. Experimental research is well suited to investigate scavengers and their impact on carcasses over time, generating knowledge on the forensic relevance of certain scavenger species or communities. However, there are currently no systematised standards to conduct these investigations with a forensic focus, impeding comparison and synthesis of the studies. In our work, we performed a systematic literature review and found 79 publications featuring terrestrial experiments on vertebrate scavenging and/or scattering within a forensic context. We extracted 21 variables describing the study environment, experimental design and the specimens. The results show that there is considerable inconsistency in the study designs and that some of the variables are insufficiently reported. We point out research questions and areas that require attention in future studies, stressing the importance of infrequently mentioned or applied variables. Furthermore, we recommend guidelines to include and report a list of variables in forensic scavenging and scattering experiments. These guidelines will help standardising future research in the field, facilitating inter-study consolidation of results and conclusions, and consequently, inform forensic casework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Indra
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Institute of Forensic Medicine Bern, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 26, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Sandra Lösch
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Institute of Forensic Medicine Bern, University of Bern, Murtenstrasse 26, CH-3008 Bern, Switzerland
| | - David Errickson
- Cranfield Forensic Institute, Cranfield University, College Road, MK43 0AL Cranfield, United Kingdom
| | - Devin Finaughty
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, Division of Natural Sciences, Ingram Building, University of Kent, CT2 7NH, Canterbury, United Kingdom; Division of Clinical Anatomy and Biological Anthropology, Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Anzio Road, Observatory, 7925 Cape Town, South Africa
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16
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Cieśla J, Skrobisz J, Niciński B, Kloc M, Mazur K, Pałasz A, Javan GT, Tomsia M. The smell of death. State-of-the-art and future research directions. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1260869. [PMID: 37779703 PMCID: PMC10538644 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1260869] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The decomposition of a body is inseparably associated with the release of several types of odors. This phenomenon has been used in the training of sniffer dogs for decades. The odor profile associated with decomposition consists of a range of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), chemical composition of which varies over time, temperature, environmental conditions, and the type of microorganisms, and insects colonizing the carcass. Mercaptans are responsible for the bad smell associated with corpses; however, there are no unified recommendations for conducting forensic analysis based on the detectable odor of revealed corpses and previous research on VOCs shows differing results. The aim of this review is to systematize the current knowledge on the type of volatile organic compounds related to the decomposition process, depending on a few variables. This knowledge will improve the methods of VOCs detection and analysis to be used in modern forensic diagnostics and improve the methods of training dogs for forensic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Cieśla
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Julia Skrobisz
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Bartosz Niciński
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Magdalena Kloc
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Mazur
- Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Artur Pałasz
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
| | - Gulnaz T. Javan
- Department of Physical and Forensic Science Programs, Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL, United States
| | - Marcin Tomsia
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Forensic Toxicology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland
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17
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McLellan MJ, Stamper TI, Kimsey RB. Direct relationship between evapotranspiration rate (ET O) and vertebrate decomposition rate. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 350:111789. [PMID: 37499375 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111789] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
When vertebrate scavenging is excluded, the Evapotranspiration Rate (ETo) of a given geographic region directly regulates the decomposition rate of unclothed vertebrate carrion, with any deviation attributed to insect activity. We conducted four decomposition experiments using pig carrion (Sus scrofa domesticus) over the span of two years (2018-2020) at a location in Davis, California. We used ETo, a variable that accounts for five climatic parameters (wind, temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and altitude) as the rate-determining variable of the decomposition process. We found ETo to have a strong (R2 = 0.98) predictive relationship with the decomposition rate. To account for maggot activity decomposing the carrion, we measured maggot weight in 2019 and 2020 using a novel method, and in 2020 we used FLIR imagery to measure maggot mass temperatures as a surrogate measurement of total maggot activity. Maggot activity was a significant predictor (p < 0.0001) of the decomposition rate, while maggot weight was not (p > 0.1). We hope to show the forensic entomology community the potential of using ETo. Future projects can incorporate ETo as a baseline to decomposition studies to determine if ETo remains the most accurate descriptor of decomposition and ultimately increase certainty in the Postmortem Interval (PMI).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark J McLellan
- University of California, Davis, Forensic Science Graduate Program, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
| | - Trevor I Stamper
- formerly at Purdue University, Department of Entomology, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Robert B Kimsey
- University of California, Davis, Forensic Science Graduate Program, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, USA
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18
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Gunawardena SA, Abeyratne P, Jayasena A, Rajapaksha S, Senadhipathi H, Siriwardana D, Vindula N, Perera C, Peiris D. Retrospective analysis of factors affecting rate of skeletonization within a tropical climate. Sci Justice 2023; 63:638-650. [PMID: 37718011 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Estimating the post mortem interval (PMI) in skeletonized cases is an extremely challenging exercise. Sri Lanka lacks adequate taphonomic research which is a serious limitation when assessing PMI in forensic death investigations. Methods that have been proposed to estimate PMI using the total body score (TBS) and accumulated degree days (ADD) are mainly based on data from continental and temperate climates and have shown less reliability in tropical climates. With the intention of developing a region-specific, evidence-based guide which would be applicable to tropical climates like Sri Lanka, we selected thirteen skeletonized remains with known PMIs from forensic case records and analysed their taphonomy in relation to selected weather data. We also compared the ADD values within our dataset with reference ranges calculated using published formula. All except one were found from outdoor locations. The TBS ranged from 24 to 32 and had a weak positive correlation with the PMI. The earliest appearance of skeletonization was 15 days in a body found indoors. The highest rate of skeletonization was seen in a body with a TBS of 32 and a PMI of 23 days. The average daily temperature and relative humidity were similar across all the cases however, the amount of rainfall varied. Bodies exposed to monsoon rains (n = 6) had a lower mean rate of skeletonization compared to those that were not exposed (n = 4) suggesting lower rates of decomposition during periods of heavy rainfall. No correlation was found between ADD and TBS. In 9 (69.2%) cases, the actual ADD was much lower than reference ADD ranges for TBS values, indicating poor applicability of TBS and ADD based formulae in estimating PMI within the Sri Lankan climate. Our study shows a strong need for taphonomic and entomological research in tropical climates to further explore the impact of monsoons on biotic and abiotic factors affecting skeletonization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameera A Gunawardena
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka; Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, International Medical University, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Pravini Abeyratne
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | | | | | - Hashan Senadhipathi
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Dulanka Siriwardana
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Nimath Vindula
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Clifford Perera
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka
| | - Dinesh Peiris
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
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19
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Rahmat RA, Humphries MA, Saedon NA, Self PG, Linacre AMT. Diagnostic models to predict nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA recovery from incinerated teeth. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:1353-1360. [PMID: 37306739 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03017-x] [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: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Teeth are frequently used for human identification from burnt remains, as the structure of a tooth is resilient against heat exposure. The intricate composition of hydroxyapatite (HA) mineral and collagen in teeth favours DNA preservation compared to soft tissues. Regardless of the durability, the integrity of the DNA structure in teeth can still be disrupted when exposed to heat. Poor DNA quality can negatively affect the success of DNA analysis towards human identification. The process of isolating DNA from biological samples is arduous and costly. Thus, an informative pre-screening method that could aid in selecting samples that can potentially yield amplifiable DNA would be of excellent value. A multiple linear regression model to predict the DNA content in incinerated pig teeth was developed based on the colourimetry, HA crystallite size and quantified nuclear and mitochondrial DNA. The chromaticity a* was found to be a significant predictor of the regression model. This study outlines a method to predict the viability of extracting nuclear and mitochondrial DNA from pig teeth that were exposed to a wide range of temperatures (27 to 1000 °C) with high accuracy (99.5-99.7%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabiah A Rahmat
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, 50603, Malaysia.
| | - Melissa A Humphries
- School and Mathematical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5006, Australia
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Mathematical and Statistical Frontiers, the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nor A Saedon
- Forensic DNA Division, Forensic Science Analysis Centre, Department of Chemistry, Selangor, 46661, Malaysia
| | - Peter G Self
- CSIRO, Land and Water, Locked Bag 2, Glen Osmond, South Australia, 5064, Australia
| | - Adrian M T Linacre
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, 5042, Australia
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20
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Sluis I, Duijst W, Krap T. Subaerial Decomposition of Small-Sized Remains in The Netherlands: Important Findings Regarding the PMI of a Four-Year Taphonomic Study. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1164. [PMID: 37759564 PMCID: PMC10525113 DOI: 10.3390/biology12091164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Studying post-mortem changes based on signs of decomposition (e.g., using scoring models) is one of the methods used in scientific studies to relate observable changes to the post-mortem interval (PMI). The majority of the studies on cadaver decomposition are based on large cadavers. There is limited literature on the decomposition pattern and rate of small cadavers, even though it is at least as important to be able to estimate the PMI for infants and subadults. Therefore, it is crucial to acquire knowledge of the decomposition process of child-sized remains. To fill this knowledge gap, a season-based subaerial outdoor decomposition study was conducted with small pig cadavers at the Forensic Anthropological Outdoor Research Facility located in Den Ham, The Netherlands, over a period of 4 years. Den Ham is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, close to the German border, and has a temperate maritime climate, with a Cfb classification according to the Köppen-Geiger system. Salient findings were acquired during the decomposition study, specifically regarding a deviating decomposition rate during winter and the subsequent spring, reproducibility, the effect of body weight, post-mortem movement, the effect of heavy rainfall on insect activity, delayed bloating, the interaction of different insect species, and invertebrate activity. This article includes a systemic review of the results obtained during this four-year decomposition study and discusses the impact of the findings on the estimation of the PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Sluis
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (W.D.); (T.K.)
- Forensic Laboratory Research, University of Applied Sciences Van Hall Larenstein, Agora 1, 8934 CJ Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
| | - Wilma Duijst
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (W.D.); (T.K.)
- GGD IJsselland, Zeven Alleetjes 1, 8011 CV Zwolle, The Netherlands
| | - Tristan Krap
- Faculty of Law and Criminology, Maastricht University, Minderbroedersberg 4-6, 6211 LK Maastricht, The Netherlands; (W.D.); (T.K.)
- Forensic Laboratory Research, University of Applied Sciences Van Hall Larenstein, Agora 1, 8934 CJ Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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21
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Gemmellaro MD, Lorusso NS, Domke R, Kovalska KM, Hashim A, Arevalo Mojica M, O’Connor AJ, Patel U, Pate O, Raise G, Shumskaya M. Assessment of Fungal Succession in Decomposing Swine Carcasses ( Sus scrofa L.) Using DNA Metabarcoding. J Fungi (Basel) 2023; 9:866. [PMID: 37754974 PMCID: PMC10532525 DOI: 10.3390/jof9090866] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The decomposition of animal bodies is a process defined by specific stages, described by the state of the body and participation of certain guilds of invertebrates and microorganisms. While the participation of invertebrates in decomposing is well-studied and actively used in crime scene investigations, information on bacteria and fungi from the scene is rarely collected or used in the identification of important factors such as estimated time of death. Modern molecular techniques such as DNA metabarcoding allow the identification and quantification of the composition of microbial communities. In this study, we used DNA metabarcoding to monitor fungal succession during the decomposition of juvenile pigs in grasslands of New Jersey, USA. Our findings show that decomposition stages differ in a diversity of fungal communities. In particular, we noted increased fungal species richness in the more advanced stages of decomposition (e.g., bloat and decay stages), with unique fungal taxa becoming active with the progression of decay. Overall, our findings improve knowledge of how fungi contribute to forensically relevant decomposition and could help with the assessment of crime scenes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rachel Domke
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | | | - Ayesha Hashim
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | | | | | - Urvi Patel
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | - Olivia Pate
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | - Gloria Raise
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
| | - Maria Shumskaya
- Department of Biology, Kean University, Union, NJ 07083, USA
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22
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Lijcklama à Nijeholt L, Kronshorst TY, van Teeffelen K, van Manen B, Emaus R, Knotter J, Mersha A. Utilizing Drone-Based Ground-Penetrating Radar for Crime Investigations in Localizing and Identifying Clandestine Graves. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:7119. [PMID: 37631665 PMCID: PMC10459563 DOI: 10.3390/s23167119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The decomposition of a body is influenced by burial conditions, making it crucial to understand the impact of different conditions for accurate grave detection. Geophysical techniques using drones have gained popularity in locating clandestine graves, offering non-invasive methods for detecting surface and subsurface irregularities. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is an effective technology for identifying potential grave locations without disturbance. This research aimed to prototype a drone system integrating GPR to assist in grave localization and to develop software for data management. Initial experiments compared GPR with other technologies, demonstrating its valuable applicability. It is suitable for various decomposition stages and soil types, although certain soil compositions have limitations. The research used the DJI M600 Pro drone and a drone-based GPR system enhanced by the real-time kinematic (RTK) global positioning system (GPS) for precision and autonomy. Tests with simulated graves and cadavers validated the system's performance, evaluating optimal altitude, speed, and obstacle avoidance techniques. Furthermore, global and local planning algorithms ensured efficient and obstacle-free flight paths. The results highlighted the potential of the drone-based GPR system in locating clandestine graves while minimizing disturbance, contributing to the development of effective tools for forensic investigations and crime scene analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Lijcklama à Nijeholt
- Technologies for Criminal Investigations, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB Enschede, The Netherlands; (L.L.à.N.); (J.K.)
| | - Tasha Yara Kronshorst
- Technologies for Criminal Investigations, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB Enschede, The Netherlands; (L.L.à.N.); (J.K.)
| | - Kees van Teeffelen
- Unmanned Robotic Systems, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Ariënsplein 1, 7511 JX Enschede, The Netherlands; (K.v.T.); (B.v.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Benjamin van Manen
- Unmanned Robotic Systems, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Ariënsplein 1, 7511 JX Enschede, The Netherlands; (K.v.T.); (B.v.M.); (A.M.)
| | - Roeland Emaus
- Business, Building & Technology, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB Enschede, The Netherlands;
| | - Jaap Knotter
- Technologies for Criminal Investigations, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, M.H. Tromplaan 28, 7513 AB Enschede, The Netherlands; (L.L.à.N.); (J.K.)
- Police Academy, Arnhemseweg 348, 7334 AC Apeldoorn, The Netherlands
| | - Abeje Mersha
- Unmanned Robotic Systems, Saxion University of Applied Sciences, Ariënsplein 1, 7511 JX Enschede, The Netherlands; (K.v.T.); (B.v.M.); (A.M.)
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23
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Carter DO, Orimoto A, Gutierrez CA, Ribéreau-Gayon A, Pecsi EL, Perrault KA, Peterson AJ. A synthesis of carcass decomposition studies conducted at a tropical (Aw) taphonomy facility: 2013-2022. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 7:100345. [PMID: 37609572 PMCID: PMC10440585 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100345] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
Decomposition studies have been conducted in several regions of the world, but relatively few have investigated taphonomy in tropical environments. Even fewer have explored carcass decomposition during multiple tropical seasons, leaving the relationships between season and decomposition in tropical environments poorly understood. Ten decomposition studies using 30 carcasses were conducted in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA to start addressing this knowledge gap. These studies show that some postmortem processes were observed regardless of season. Carcass temperature and chemistry were spatiotemporally variable. Fly larval masses were consistently observed within 3 days (∼75 ADD) postmortem and carcasses lost 60%-90% of mass by 10 days (∼250 ADD) postmortem (Total Body Score ∼26). Season had a significant effect on decomposition, yet the warmest and most humid seasons did not always result in the most rapid and extensive decomposition. Seasonal variation appears to be less pronounced than at other tropical decomposition sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- David O. Carter
- Laboratory of Forensic Taphonomy, Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Adam Orimoto
- Laboratory of Forensic Taphonomy, Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Scientific Investigation Section, Honolulu Police Department, Honolulu, HI, USA
| | - Carlos A. Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Forensic Taphonomy, Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- True Forensic Science, Santiago, Chile
| | - Agathe Ribéreau-Gayon
- Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Physics, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
- Research Group in Forensic Science, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Emily L. Pecsi
- Department of Anatomy, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Katelynn A. Perrault
- Laboratory of Forensic and Bioanalytical Chemistry, Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
| | - Alexis J.L. Peterson
- Laboratory of Forensic Taphonomy, Forensic Sciences Unit, School of Natural Sciences & Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii, USA
- Department of the Medical Examiner, City and County of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI, USA
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Ziogos S, Dadour IR, Pitts K, Magni PA. Qualitative Analyses of Textile Damage (Cuts and Tears) Applied to Fabrics Exposed to the Decomposition of Carcasses and Associated Insect Activity in an Austral Summer. INSECTS 2023; 14:618. [PMID: 37504624 PMCID: PMC10380818 DOI: 10.3390/insects14070618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Fatal stabbings are the leading cause of homicide in countries with restricted access to firearms, such as Australia. The analysis of damage on clothing imparted by a sharp object can assist in the characterization of the weapon. However, decomposition and carrion insects can modify the features of the damage, impeding textile damage analysis and crime reconstruction. This study aimed to identify and characterize the modifications of textile damage over 47 days of decomposition during the summer season in Western Australia. Fabric modifications were analyzed on cotton, synthetic, and blended fabrics with standardized cuts and tears, wrapped on 99 stillborn piglets. Six unclothed piglets acted as controls, with three being stabbed. All piglets were placed simultaneously in the field alongside swatches of fabric. Analyses considered taphonomy, insect interactions, and any textile damage using optical microscopy and SEM. The results showed that carrion insects can modify existing cuts and tears and introduce new artifacts on textiles. The 100% cotton fabric was the most affected by mechanical and chemical degradation, especially cuts and areas stained with blood or decomposition fluids. The study highlights the combined effect of multiple factors on textile damage, including the type of fabric, initial damage, bloating, insect activity, and biodegradation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotirios Ziogos
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Ian R Dadour
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Source Certain, Wangara, WA 6947, Australia
| | - Kari Pitts
- Physical Evidence, Forensic Science Laboratory, ChemCentre, Bentley, WA 6983, Australia
| | - Paola A Magni
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
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25
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Bambaradeniya TB, Magni PA, Dadour IR. A Summary of Concepts, Procedures and Techniques Used by Forensic Entomologists and Proxies. INSECTS 2023; 14:536. [PMID: 37367352 DOI: 10.3390/insects14060536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Forensic entomology is a branch of forensic science that incorporates insects as a part of solving crime. Insect-based evidence recovered at a crime scene can be used to estimate the minimum postmortem interval, determine if a carcass/corpse has been relocated, and contribute to the cause and manner of death. The current review summarises the stepwise usage of forensic entomology methods at a crime scene and in the laboratory, including specimen collection and rearing, identification, xenobiotic detection, documentation, and referencing previous research and casework. It also provides three standards for the collection of insects when attending a crime scene. The Gold standard attributes to a forensic entomologist (FE) who is likely to be well-trained attending a scene. The subsequent standards (Silver and Bronze) have been added because the authors believe that this information is currently missing in the literature. The purpose is so that an attending crime scene agent/proxy with some basic knowledge and some simple tools can recover almost all the insect information required by an FE to make the best estimation of the minimum postmortem interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharindu B Bambaradeniya
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Paola A Magni
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Ian R Dadour
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Source Certain, P.O. Box 1570, Wangara, WA 6947, Australia
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26
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Toni ASB, Serrão JE, Fialho VS. A beetle for prosecution: exogenous DNA detection from larval and adult gut of a Neotropical carrion beetle. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2023; 19:184-191. [PMID: 37243839 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00658-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of recovered DNA ingested by necrophagous or hematophagous insects has increased in forensic sciences, mainly with representatives of flies. However, some beetles are also important for medico-legal forensic entomology because they feed on carcasses until advanced decomposition. This study evaluated whether the Neotropical carrion beetle Oxelytrum discicolle (Silphidae) has the potential for the detection of exogenous DNA into the gut. The whole gut or the gut contents were extracted from O. discicolle larvae and adult previously fed on pig carcass. The pig DNA recovery rate was 33.3% in larvae and 25% in adults, indicating that the carrion beetle's gut may be useful for DNA identification of ingested food. Samples with the whole gut or only gut contents showed the same DNA recovery rate. Exogenous DNA from the whole gut was recovered from samples stored in ethanol at -20 ºC for 11 days, showing that samples of O. discicolle can be stored in the forensic laboratory without loss in DNA recovery rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Santana Batista Toni
- Graduate Program in Cell and Structural Biology, Cell Ultrastructure Laboratory, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - José Eduardo Serrão
- Departament of General Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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27
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Franceschetti L, Amadasi A, Bugelli V, Bolsi G, Tsokos M. Estimation of Late Postmortem Interval: Where Do We Stand? A Literature Review. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:783. [PMID: 37372068 DOI: 10.3390/biology12060783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Estimating time since death can be challenging for forensic experts, and is one of the most challenging activities concerning the forensic world. Various methods have been assessed to calculate the postmortem interval on dead bodies in different stages of decomposition and are currently widely used. Nowadays, the only well-recognized dating technique is carbon-14 radioisotope measurement, whereas other methods have been tested throughout the years involving different disciplines with different and sometimes not univocal results. Today, there is no precise and secure method to precisely determine time since death, and late postmortem interval estimation remains one of the most debated topics in forensic pathology. Many proposed methods have shown promising results, and it is desirable that with further studies some of them might become acknowledged techniques to resolve such a difficult and important challenge. The present review aims at presenting studies about the different techniques that have been tested in order to find a valuable method for estimating time since death for skeletal remains. By providing a comprehensive overview, the purpose of this work is to offer readers new perspectives on postmortem interval estimation and to improve current practice in the management of skeletal remains and decomposed bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Franceschetti
- Istituto di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Alberto Amadasi
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Turmstr. 21 (Haus M), 10559 Berlin, Germany
| | - Valentina Bugelli
- South-East Tuscany Local Health Unit, Department of Legal Medicine, via Cimabue 109, 58100 Grosseto, Italy
| | - Giulia Bolsi
- Istituto di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Michael Tsokos
- Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Turmstr. 21 (Haus M), 10559 Berlin, Germany
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28
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Qubaiová J, Jakubec P, Montoya-Molina S, Novák M, Šuláková H. The Impact of Diet and Photoperiodism on the Life History of Thanatophilus sinuatus (Coleoptera: Silphidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:453-459. [PMID: 36779808 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
The forensically important genus Thanatophilus Leach, 1815 (Coleoptera: Silphidae) is a widespread group of carrion beetles that occupies the Holarctic and Afrotropical realms. It has recently received more recognition, as its species are frequently detected on large carrion, including humans, and can be useful in estimating the time of colonization (TOC) and the post-mortem interval (PMI). The immature stages of Thanatophilus sinuatus (Fabricius, 1775) were reared on three different meat diets (pork liver, pork muscle, and chicken muscle). Diet influence on some of the essential life history traits of the species was examined for different populations. Our findings indicated an accelerated development on pork muscle followed closely by pork liver and a prolonged development on chicken muscle. The diet significantly affected the size, and the body condition (weight/ size) as both pork muscle and liver produced individuals in better physical condition (larger and heavier). The impact of two cyclic photoperiod regimes (16 h Light (L): 8 h Dark (D) and 12 h L: 12 h D) was further evaluated and indicated no significant variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Qubaiová
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - P Jakubec
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - S Montoya-Molina
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - M Novák
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - H Šuláková
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Police of the Czech Republic, Institute of Criminalistics Prague, P.O. Box 62/KUP, CZ-170 89 Praha, Czech Republic
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29
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Carew RM, French J, Morgan RM. Drilling down into ethics: A thematic review of ethical considerations for the creation and use of 3D printed human remains in crime reconstruction. Sci Justice 2023; 63:330-342. [PMID: 37169458 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The existing literature contains some exploration of the ethics concerning human remains in forensic and virtual anthropology. However, previous work has stopped short of interrogating the underlying ethical concepts. The question of how people understand and apply these concepts in practice, and what it means to act ethically, remain underexplored. This thematic review explores the ethical considerations that contribute to the creation and use of 3D printed human remains for forensic purposes. The three main branches of ethical theory are outlined to explore how they may apply to forensic practice. Key themes relating to 3D printing human remains in forensic contexts were explored to better understand the ethics landscape, ethical challenges, and the current guidelines in place. Through this thematic review, nine ethics principles were identified as key principles for guiding best practice: anonymity, autonomy, beneficence, consent, context, justice, non-maleficence, proportionality, and transparency. It is suggested that these principles could be incorporated into adaptable guidelines going forward to support ethical practice. The findings also suggest that holistic ethics cognition training may have value in supporting forensic scientists in ethical decision-making, together with procedural and structural design that may promote best practice and reduce cognitive load.
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Rivers DB, Ferrone M, Mulroy D. The effect of postmortem penetrative trauma on oviposition behavior of Calliphora vicina. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 346:111647. [PMID: 36990017 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Flies in the family Calliphoridae are purported to demonstrate a strong attraction to and preferential colonization of wounds when present on human corpses or carrion. This well-circulated concept in Forensic Entomology is based on surprisingly few empirical studies that have examined the oviposition behavior of necrophagous Diptera toward wounds of vertebrate animals. In the present study, the oviposition behavior of Calliphora vicina toward piglets inflicted with postmortem sharp force trauma was examined during a 10-h test period under controlled laboratory conditions and in an outdoor urban environment. Three species of flies (C. vicina, C. livida and Cynomya cadaverina) deposited eggs on wounded and non-wound piglets during the field studies, although more than 80% of all eggs laid were by C. vicina regardless of wound status. For all species, oviposition occurred predominately on the head, including in eyes, ears, nose and mouth, and less frequently in other locations on the body. Eggs were never found in or near wounds. Similar oviposition patterns were displayed by C. vicina under laboratory conditions, with the exception for limited egg deposition in wounds under overcrowded conditions. In this latter scenario, egg deposition represented only 0.14% of the total reproductive output of adult flies. The findings do not support the contention that calliphorids preferentially oviposit in wounds resulting from sharp force penetrating trauma.
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31
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Onyejike DN, Fischer VA, Esomonu UG, Onyejike IM. Post-mortem interval of buried homicides in Okuku, Nigeria. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-023-00333-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Post-mortem interval estimation of carcasses buried in shallow graves is a grey area in Nigerian forensic investigations. Most of the investigations and court decisions on the time of death of concealed homicides are based on assumptions in Nigeria. Therefore, this study investigated the post-mortem interval of buried remains in Okuku, Cross River State of Nigeria using porcine models. This study also provided a model account of the pattern and timeline of decomposition of buried remains in Nigeria.
Results
Four stages of decomposition were identified within the study period which includes fresh, bloat, active decay, and advanced decay stages. Features of bloat stage of decomposition include bloating of the animals and release of putrid odour. The active decay stage was characterized by the absence of maggots, bone exposure, and greyish discolouration of the body. The advanced decay stage of decomposition is characterized by adipocere formation, fungi activities, and bone exposure.
Conclusions
Buried bodies do not completely skeletonize within 168 days in a typical Nigerian savannah region. Bloat stage started by the 7th day; the active decay stage started by the 14th day. The fresh stage of decay lasted up to 7 days; the bloat stage lasted for 14 days. The active decay stage lasted about 35 days, and the advanced decay stage started at about the 56th day and progressed until the end of the study.
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32
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Maisonhaute JÉ, Forbes SL. Decomposition and insect succession on human cadavers in a humid, continental (Dfb) climate (Quebec, Canada). Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:493-509. [PMID: 36334122 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02903-0] [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: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Forensic entomology has been developing globally for decades. Despite this discipline being used in criminal investigations around the world, only a few controlled studies have been performed on human cadavers in human decomposition facilities, with the majority of these being conducted in warm and often dry climates. Therefore, the purpose of our research was to catalogue the first published data on insects associated with decomposed human bodies in a humid, continental (Dfb) climate. Specifically, our objective was to document the diversity and succession of the entomofauna associated with human cadavers throughout the decomposition process, in the Quebec province of Canada, during the summer season. Two human cadavers were studied in 2020 at the site for Research in Experimental and Social Thanatology, REST, located in Bécancour (Quebec, Canada). Insects (and other arthropods) were regularly sampled by visual observations, collection from the cadavers, and by using an entomological net and pitfall traps. Our results highlight that the decomposition process is a heterogeneous and complex process in Quebec, with cadavers showing signs of precocious desiccation/mummification. In addition, our observations confirm that the presence of superficial skin lesions accelerates the colonization of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and, consequently, the process of decomposition. Finally, we were able to discriminate between "early colonizers" (e.g., Calliphoridae Lucilia sp. or Calliphora livida), "late colonizers" (e.g., larvae of Piophilidae or Heleomyzidae), and "non-specific colonizers." We also officially report the first observation of Cochliomyia macellaria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Quebec. These findings will provide new information to help medico-legal death investigations by determining the minimum time elapsed since death and the circumstances surrounding death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shari L Forbes
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351, Boul. des Forges, Trois-Rivières (Qc), G8Z 4M3, Canada
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33
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Finaughty DA, Pead J, Spies MJ, Gibbon VE. Next generation forensic taphonomy: Automation for experimental, field-based research. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 345:111616. [PMID: 36907107 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Determining the post-mortem interval (PMI) is often a critical goal in forensic casework. Consequently, the discipline of forensic taphonomy has involved considerable research efforts towards achieving this goal, with substantial strides made in the past 40 years. Importantly, quantification of decompositional data (and the models derived from them) and standardisation in experimental protocols are being increasingly recognised as key components of this drive. However, despite the discipline's best efforts, significant challenges remain. Still lacking are standardisation of many core components of experimental design, forensic realism in experimental design, true quantitative measures of the progression of decay, and high-resolution data. Without these critical elements, large-scale, synthesised multi-biogeographically representative datasets - necessary for building comprehensive models of decay to precisely estimate PMI - remain elusive. To address these limitations, we propose the automation of taphonomic data collection. We present the world's first reported fully automated, remotely operable forensic taphonomic data collection system, inclusive of technical design details. Through laboratory testing and field deployments, the apparatus substantially reduced the cost of actualistic (field-based) forensic taphonomic data collection, improved data resolution, and provided for more forensically realistic experimental deployments and simultaneous multi-biogeographic experiments. We argue that this device represents a quantum leap in experimental methodology in this field, paving the way for the next generation of forensic taphonomic research and, we hope, attainment of the elusive goal of precise estimation of PMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- D A Finaughty
- School of Chemistry and Forensic Science, Division of Natural Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent CT2 7NR, UK; Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, WC, South Africa.
| | - J Pead
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, Cape Town, WC, South Africa
| | - M J Spies
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, WC, South Africa
| | - V E Gibbon
- Department of Human Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, WC, South Africa
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Atwood L, Lain R, Kotzander J, McCardle P, Mason B, Raymond J, Sears A. A casework study: The effect of the porcine digestive process on animal carcasses and human teeth. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 345:111617. [PMID: 36893679 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 10/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
What happens if a human body is fed to pigs? Although a popular notion in the entertainment industry, no scientific published literature exists that documents this porcine feeding behaviour, nor, more importantly, what elements of the cadaver may survive such a process. A study conducted in 2020, born out of a casework enquiry, aimed to investigate the following two questions; Would pigs feed on a human body? And, if so, what could be recovered post feeding event? Kangaroo carcasses, porcine carcasses (as human analogues) and 90 human teeth were prepared, and fed, to two domestic pigs, in a variety of feed scenarios. Biological traces including bones, bone fragments, teeth and tooth fragments were recovered both post-digestion from the faeces of the pigs, as well as uneaten from the porcine enclosure. 29% of all human teeth were recovered from the study; 35% of which were recovered post-digestion from the faeces and 65% were recovered uneaten from the porcine enclosure, Of the recovered human teeth, 81% were deemed suitable for identification by a forensic odontologist. From the 447 bones recovered from the enclosure, 94% could be identified to a bone type and species. From all 3338 bone fragments recovered from the faeces of the pigs, none retained any morphological traits that would allow further intelligence to be generated. Overall, it was found that pigs will feed on human analogues and will consume soft tissue, bones, and human teeth. Biological traces in the form of bones, bone fragments, teeth and tooth fragments may be recovered both post-digestion from the faeces, or from the porcine enclosure. The biological traces can be used for identification of an individual via forensic odontology, identification of a species via forensic anthropology and may be suitable for DNA analysis. The outcomes of this study generated new avenues for investigation in the case and may be used to inform future operational resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Atwood
- Science and Research Unit, Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, New South Wales Police Force, Sydney, Australia.
| | | | - Jessica Kotzander
- Science and Research Unit, Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, New South Wales Police Force, Sydney, Australia; University of Technology Sydney, Centre for Forensic Science, Broadway 2007, Australia
| | - Penny McCardle
- Newcastle Department of Forensic Medicine, NSW/McCardle Cultural Heritage, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Brett Mason
- Criminal Groups Squad, State Crime Command, New South Wales Police Force, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jennifer Raymond
- Science and Research Unit, Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, New South Wales Police Force, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alison Sears
- Science and Research Unit, Forensic Evidence and Technical Services Command, New South Wales Police Force, Sydney, Australia
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Wen A, Zhang W, Xu J, Wang K, Hu H. Identification and characterization of extrachromosomal circular DNA in Wei and Large White pigs by high-throughput sequencing. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1085474. [PMID: 36816190 PMCID: PMC9935582 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1085474] [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: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Wei pig (WP) and Large White pig (LP) are fatty and lean breeds, respectively. Extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) plays an important role in regulating signaling pathway processes of cell. However, there are few reports regarding the eccDNA and ecDNA profiles in WP and LP. The present work aimed to investigate the eccDNA and ecDNA profiles between WP and LP. Three WPs and three LPs (100 ± 1.3 kg) were selected for analysis of eccDNA and ecDNA in the ear samples. Results showed that there were 39,686,953,656-58,411,217,258 and 53,824,168,657-58,311,810,737 clean data for WP and LP, respectively. Sequencing yielded 15,587-25,479 and 71,123-79,605 eccDNAs from the ear samples of WP and LP, respectively. There were 15,111 and 22,594 eccDNA-derived genes in the WP and LP, respectively, and 13,807 eccDNA-derived genes were common in the ear samples of both pigs. Sequencing yielded 13-19 and 27-43 ecDNAs in the ears of WP and LP, respectively. There were 1,005 and 1,777 ecDNA-derived genes in WP and LP, respectively, and 351 ecDNA-derived genes were common in the ear samples of both pigs. The most significant KEGG pathways of eccDNA-derived genes were axon guidance, focal adhesion, metabolic pathways, MAPK signaling pathway, Hedgehog signaling pathway, microRNAs in cancer, tight junction, phospholipase D signaling pathway, endocytosis, and sphingolipid signaling pathway. Furthermore, the most significant KEGG pathways of ecDNA-derived genes were olfactory transduction, B cell receptor signaling pathway, and chemical carcinogenesis. The eccDNA00044301 was lower abundance, while the ecDNA00000060 was higher abundance in WP compared with that in LP. Summary, we found that eccDNAs and ecDNAs are common in WP and LP and occur in sizes large enough to carry one or several partial or complete genes. These findings have expanded the knowledge repertoire of circular DNA in pig and will provide a reference for the use of pigs as a medical model and help discovery of new genetic markers to select high-quality breeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiyou Wen
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Institute of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Medicine, Anhui Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hefei, China
| | - Jingen Xu
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Kunping Wang
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China
| | - Hong Hu
- College of Animal Science, Anhui Science and Technology University, Chuzhou, China,*Correspondence: Hong Hu ✉
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36
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Brownlow L, Young S, Fernández-Grandon M, Hopkins RJ. Case closed - Wrappings and encasement delays and reduces fly presence on body parts. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 342:111542. [PMID: 36566613 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Homicide, particularly where a body has been concealed, is uniquely challenging for investigators to estimate the time of occurrence due to the methods employed by perpetrators to hide the body or its constituent parts from detection. The regularity of necrophagous insect lifecycles to determine minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI) is widely employed but remains an unreliable technique if used without a clear understanding of the factors that affect insect access and oviposition behaviour to concealed remains. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of wrapping body parts on fly colonisation and implications for minPMI calculations. Field studies were carried out using four treatments of pork (as surrogate body parts), in five replicates, one unwrapped, the other three wrapped in either a black plastic sack, a small-zipped wash bag (to simulate a suitcase), or a plastic sack further placed in a wash bag. Over a 48-h period all the methods of wrapping significantly disrupted the host-finding process of blowflies to dismembered carcasses, with a delay of initial contact and oviposition of 30+h (dependant on wrapping) and even more in wet conditions (48+ h). Egg numbers were also reduced by as much as 99.1% on wrapped samples compared to unwrapped. These new findings highlight the importance of applying adjustments to minPMI calculations when encountering wrapped remains. Advances in the accuracy of minPMI calculations will prevent the waste of valuable police time and resources and better focus the search for witnesses and suspects in homicide investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Brownlow
- School of Science, Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK.
| | - Stephen Young
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Mandela Fernández-Grandon
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Richard J Hopkins
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
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Succession patterns of sarcosaprophagous insects on pig carcasses in different months in Yangtze River Delta, China. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 342:111518. [PMID: 36413865 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The Yangtze River Delta is one of the most economically developed regions in China, and many cases in the area require an estimation of the postmortem interval each year. This article reports forensic entomological research conducted in this region in different months. A total of 18 domestic pigs were used to study carcass decomposition, species composition, development events, and succession patterns of insects in different months from 2015 to 2021. A total of 53 arthropod species were identified, of which 38, 40, 41, and 25 were observed in April, June, September, and November, respectively. We demonstrated that insects vary in number and species from month to month, and the same species vary in number among the different months. Larvae of Calliphoridae mainly drove the decomposition of carcasses, and the decomposition rate of carcasses varied over the months. Particularly, the decomposition rate was highest in June and September, slower in April, and slowest in November. The predominant species on the carcasses also varied from month to month; Calliphora grahami Aldrich, Chrysomya pinguis (Walker), Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and Hydrotaea spinigera Stein (Diptera: Muscidae) were most predominant in April; Chrysomya megacephala (F.) and Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) were most predominant in June and September; and Ca. grahami was most predominant in November. In addition, the seven dominant insect species displayed four developmental events, which could be used to determine minimum postmortem interval, including adult arrival (T1), larvae wandering (T2), pupation (T3), and eclosion (T4) time on the carcasses. Insect succession patterns on carcasses also varied across months. For example, Ch. megacephala appeared later in the composition stages and was not numerically dominant in April but appeared earlier and was dominant in June and September. The results of this study guide the use of insect evidence in different months in the Yangtze River Delta region of China for estimating the postmortem interval of carcasses.
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Martlin BA, Anderson GS, Bell LS. A review of human decomposition in marine environments. CANADIAN SOCIETY OF FORENSIC SCIENCE JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2022.2135741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Britny A. Martlin
- Centre for Forensic Research, School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Gail S. Anderson
- Centre for Forensic Research, School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
| | - Lynne S. Bell
- Centre for Forensic Research, School of Criminology, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC, Canada
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Collins S, Maestrini L, Ueland M, Stuart B. A preliminary investigation to determine the suitability of pigs as human analogues for post-mortem lipid analysis. TALANTA OPEN 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talo.2022.100100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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40
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Spies AJ, Steyn M, Brits D. Diagnostic accuracies of CTs, X-rays and Lodox to detect blunt force trauma in adults, using a pig model. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2022; 62:134-143. [PMID: 34825618 DOI: 10.1177/00258024211049591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The accurate radiological detection of skeletal trauma is crucial for the investigation of blunt force trauma (BFT) cases. The sensitivities of CTs, X-rays and Lodox in identifying BFT fractures and minimum number of impacts in pigs, used as proxies for adult humans, were assessed. Ten human sized pig carcasses were struck with a mallet and scanned, after which the number of fractures and minimum number of impacts detected radiologically were recorded. Pig carcasses were then macerated, and the defleshed, skeletonized remains were considered the gold standard as far as number and location of fractures were concerned. CTs were most sensitive in identifying fractures and impacts in all body regions, with overall sensitivities of 55.4% and 71.5% respectively, while X-rays and Lodox had sensitivities of 25.8% and 29.3% for fractures, and 43.5% and 41.1% for impacts, respectively. All modalities were highly specific for identifying fractures (CT: 99.1%; X-ray: 98.9%; Lodox: 99.4%). CTs should be used to analyze blunt force trauma when a radiological assessment is required, but an examination of the defleshed bones remains the gold standard for the deceased whenever feasible. X-rays and Lodox have limited diagnostic value in these cases and relying on them to detect fractures may compromise the accurate forensic investigation of blunt trauma victims. However, the use of Lodox for initial screening of major trauma is still of value. Sensitivities are generally higher for detecting fractures in pigs compared to piglets, indicating that increased diagnostic value is achieved when imaging pigs compared to piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Joy Spies
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Maryna Steyn
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
| | - Desiré Brits
- Human Variation and Identification Research Unit (HVIRU), School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, 37708University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, Johannesburg 2193, South Africa
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41
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Moreau G, Ramal AF, Letana SD, Horgan FG. Death in the paddy field: Carcass decomposition and associated arthropods in subunits of a rice field landscape. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 335:111288. [PMID: 35397359 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111288] [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: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Although rice production landscapes are often the scene of homicides, vertebrate decomposition and associated arthropods have never been described from rice paddies. Tropical rice landscapes are typically composed of irrigated/non-irrigated rice fields, fallow land (i.e., uncultivated fields), and low earthen levees (bunds) used as access pathways. The specific microclimatic and environmental conditions associated with each subunit of rice field landscapes are likely to impact carcass decomposition as well as the arthropod species associated with carrion. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the combined effects of constraints on arthropod colonization and survival, scarcity of necromass, limited habitat architecture, and recurrent disturbance limit the ability of carrion-related arthropods to colonize corpses and large carcasses in tropical rice-fields. Our results from monitoring pig carcasses in Philippine rice fields indicated that vertebrate decomposition in irrigated fields was slower and incomplete when compared to non-irrigated fields and bunds. Carcasses were colonized by a small complex of carrion-related arthropods that differed in composition and relative species abundance between dry bunds and relatively humid rice paddies. Fire ants (Solenopsis germinata) were observed frequently on carcasses exposed on bunds, rarely in non-irrigated fields, and almost never in irrigated fields. The presence of fire ants was associated with reduced blow fly (Chrysomya megacephala) abundance. Taken together, this indicates that the arthropod fauna associated with carcasses in tropical rice fields is relatively simple in contrast to the generally high arthropod diversity reported for other ecosystems at tropical latitudes. The limited richness of the community also means that an understanding of the development of one abundant calliphorid blow fly, C. megacephala, may be sufficient to investigate deaths and homicides under conditions similar to the ones described in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaétan Moreau
- Département de Biologie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, NB E1A 3E9, Canada.
| | - Angelee Fame Ramal
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Manila 1554, Philippines.
| | - Socrates D Letana
- Bohart Museum of Entomology, University of California, Davis 95616, USA; Natural History Museum of Denmark, University of Copenhagen, København DK-1350, Denmark.
| | - Finbarr G Horgan
- EcoLaVerna Integral Restoration Ecology, Bridestown, Kildinan, Co. Cork, Ireland; Universidad Católica del Maule, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias y Forestales, Escuela de Agronomía, Casilla 7-D, Curicó, Chile.
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Junno JA, Kotiaho A, Oura P. Post-mortem computed tomography in forensic shooting distance estimation: a porcine cadaver study. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:103. [PMID: 35296333 PMCID: PMC8925149 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-05997-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Gunshot wounds are frequently studied using computed tomography (CT) to examine tissue damage. In this study, we aimed to test the potential of post-mortem CT (PMCT) in shooting distance estimation at distances 0–100 cm. We hypothesized that in addition to the wound channel, we could also potentially detect tissue damage caused by muzzle pressure on PMCT. Results A total of 59 gunshot wounds (23 contact shots, 21 close-range shots, 15 distant shots) were inflicted on eight piglet carcasses with a .22 Long Rifle handgun. PMCT scans were obtained using clinical equipment, and they were evaluated for wound characteristics by visual inspection and numeric measurements. In our data, contact shots could be clearly distinguished from close-range and distant shots by a hyperdense ring-shaped area surrounding the outermost part of the wound channel. Close-range and distant shot wounds did not have this feature and were difficult to distinguish from each other. The mean wound channel diameter ranged from 3.4 to 5.4 mm, being smallest in contact shots and largest in distant shots. These preliminary findings suggest that PMCT may aid the estimation of shooting distance. As this study only addressed low velocity gunshot wounds in carcasses, further studies are warranted. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13104-022-05997-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juho-Antti Junno
- Cancer and Translational Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Humanities, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.,Archaeology, Faculty of Arts, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Antti Kotiaho
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Oulu University Hospital, Oulu, Finland
| | - Petteri Oura
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 21, 00014, Helsinki, Finland. .,Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Helsinki, Finland. .,Center for Life Course Health Research, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland.
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Dawson BM, Wallman JF, Evans MJ, Barton PS. Insect abundance patterns on vertebrate remains reveal carrion resource quality variation. Oecologia 2022; 198:1043-1056. [PMID: 35294646 PMCID: PMC9056491 DOI: 10.1007/s00442-022-05145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Resource quality is a key driver of species abundance and community structure. Carrion is unique among resources due to its high nutritional quality, rapidly changing nature, and the diverse community of organisms it supports. Yet the role resource quality plays in driving variation in abundance patterns of carrion-associated species remains poorly studied. Here we investigate how species abundances change with a measure of resource change, and interpret these findings to determine how species differ in their association with carrion that changes in quality over time. We conducted field succession experiments using pigs and humans over two winters and one summer. We quantified the effect of total body score, an objective measure of resource change, on adult insect abundance using generalised additive models. For each species, phases of increasing abundance likely indicated attraction to a high-quality resource, and length of abundance maxima indicated optimal oviposition and feeding time. Some species such as the beetle Necrobia rufipes had a rapid spike in abundance, suggesting a narrow window of opportunity for carrion resource exploitation, while species like the wasp Nasonia vitripennis had a gradual change in abundance, indicating a wide window of resource exploitation. Different abundance patterns were also observed between species occurring on pigs and humans, suggesting cadaver type is an important aspect of resource quality. Our findings show that species abundances, unlike species occurrences, can reveal additional detail about species exploitation of carrion and provide information about how resource quality may drive competition and variation in insect community succession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake M Dawson
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.
| | - James F Wallman
- Centre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Maldwyn J Evans
- Fenner School of Environment and Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia.,Department of Ecosystem Studies, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Philip S Barton
- Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen, VIC, Australia
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The Postmortem Interval of Two Decedents and Two Dog Carcasses at the Same Scene Based on Forensic Entomology. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13020215. [PMID: 35206788 PMCID: PMC8876788 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Revised: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Simple Summary This paper reports a case in which the minimum postmortem interval (PMI) of two corpses, a man and a woman, and two dog carcasses at the same scene was estimated using forensic entomology. The corpses were found in various states of decay and had been colonized by different insect species. A total of eight taxa of immature insects were isolated from the four corpses and carcasses. The minimum PMIs were estimated to be about 8.75 days for the corpse of the woman, 4.17 days for that of the man, 3.13 days for the dog carcass found in the stairwell, and about 28.80 days for the dog carcass found in the toilet. These estimations were consistent with other evidence. Although the soft tissue loss observed on the man’s corpse was more severe than that of the woman’s corpse, the woman had died much earlier than the man. The discrepancy is thought to have been caused by dogs’ feeding activity. This case report provides a reference point and new perspectives for forensic entomology research on estimating the minimum PMIs of multiple human corpses and animal carcasses found in an indoor environment. Abstract In this paper, we report the estimation of the minimum PMIs of two human corpses and two dog carcasses using entomological evidence. Corpses of an elderly couple and carcasses of four dogs were found scattered on different floors in a house. The scene was very dirty. In addition, there were 12 emaciated live dogs at the scene. The corpses had been eaten by the dogs to different degrees, but the damage was greater on the man’s corpse. After forensic examination, it was concluded that both individuals died of natural causes. The minimum PMIs of the two individuals and the two dogs were estimated using entomological evidence. The minimum PMIs of the other two dogs were not estimated because of the risk of contamination with the human corpses. Different insect species were found on each of the corpses and carcasses. The minimum PMIs were estimated as about 8.75 days for the woman, 4.17 days for the man, 3.13 days for the dog found in the stairwell and about 28.80 days for the dog found in the toilet. These estimations coincided with the time the woman stopped communicating with her daughter and when the electricity consumption at the house decreased significantly.
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Biodiversity of Forensically Relevant Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) at the Anthropology Research Facility in Knoxville, Tennessee, USA. INSECTS 2022; 13:insects13020109. [PMID: 35206683 PMCID: PMC8878205 DOI: 10.3390/insects13020109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary This study investigates the biodiversity and seasonal distribution of blowflies at the Anthropology Research Facility (ARF) of the University of Tennessee, which is also known as the “Body Farm”. Blowflies are among the first insects that access dead bodies, and have a significant impact on the rate and pattern of decomposition. Although the ARF has been used for numerous taphonomic and entomological studies over the past 40 years, it is not yet fully known what blowfly species are present in the area. After a 14-month-long blowfly survey at the ARF, we collected a total of 3180 adult blowflies, comprising 13 species from 7 genera. Phormia regina (Meigen) and Lucilia coeruleiviridis (Macquart) were the predominant species collected from this survey, representing 65.9% and 20.6% of collections, respectively. Among the 13 species, Protophormia terraenovae (Robineau-Desvoidy) was collected for the first time in Tennessee. In addition to relative abundance, we also investigated blowfly community composition, species abundance, richness, and diversity by season. This research is expected to provide researchers at the ARF with accurate information about the blowflies so that they can plan and design their research accordingly. Abstract Understanding the biodiversity and distribution of forensically relevant blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in a region can aid in legal investigations when insects are associated with remains. For this purpose, we conducted a 14-month-long blowfly survey at the Anthropology Research Facility (ARF) of the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, Tennessee. Traps baited with pork kidney were deployed for 24 h twice a month throughout the study. A total of 3180 adult blowflies were collected, comprising 13 species from 7 genera. Phormia regina (Meigen) and Lucilia coeruleiviridis (Macquart) were the predominant species collected from this survey, with collections representing 65.9% and 20.6%of total flies captured, respectively. In addition to relative abundance, we investigated blowfly community composition, species abundance, richness, and diversity by season. One state record was identified, with adult Protophormia terraenovae (Robineau-Desvoidy) being collected for the first time in Tennessee. Additionally, an earlier record of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) in Tennessee was noted. These findings can be used to aid in legal investigations in the area and surrounding areas where work is limited, as well as to provide information on which forensically relevant species should be the subject of future research in the area.
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Huang L, Badenoch A, Vermeulen M, Ullah S, Woods C, Athanasiadis T, Ooi EH. Risk of airway fire with the use of KTP laser and high flow humidified oxygen delivery in a laryngeal surgery model. Sci Rep 2022; 12:543. [PMID: 35017619 PMCID: PMC8752812 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-04636-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Airway surgery presents a unique environment for operating room fire to occur. This study aims to explore the factors of combustion when using KTP laser with high flow oxygen in an ex-vivo model. The variables tested were varying tissue type, tissue condition, oxygen concentration, laser setting, and smoke evacuation in a stainless-steel model. Outcome measures were time of lasing to the first spark and/or flame. A multivariate Cox proportional hazard model was used to determine the risk of spark and flame across the different risk factors. For every 10% increase in oxygen concentration above 60% the risk of flame increased by a factor of 2.3. Continuous laser setting at 2.6 W increased the risk by a factor of 72.8. The risk of lasing adipose tissue is 7.3 times higher than that of muscle. Charred tissue increases the risk of flame by a factor of 92.8. Flame occurred without a preceding spark 93.6% of the time. Using KTP laser in the pulsed mode with low wattages, minimising lasing time, reducing the oxygen concentration and avoiding lasing adipose or charred tissue produce a relatively low estimated risk of spark or flame.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Huang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA, Australia. .,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia.
| | - Adam Badenoch
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia.,Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Marthinus Vermeulen
- Department of Anaesthesia and Pain Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Shahid Ullah
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Charmaine Woods
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Theodore Athanasiadis
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
| | - Eng Hooi Ooi
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Flinders Medical Centre, Bedford Park, SA, Australia.,College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Bedford Park, Australia
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Dawson BM, Wallman JF, Barton PS. How does mass loss compare with total body score when assessing decomposition of human and pig cadavers? Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2022; 18:343-351. [PMID: 35543928 PMCID: PMC9587095 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-022-00481-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Providing accurate and reliable measures of decomposition is paramount for forensic research where decomposition progress is used to estimate time of death. Mass loss is routinely used as a direct measure of biomass decomposition in ecological studies, yet few studies have analysed mass loss in a forensic context on human cadavers to determine its usefulness for modelling the decomposition process. Mass loss was examined in decomposing human and pig cadavers, and compared with other common decomposition metrics, such as total body score (TBS). One summer and one winter field decomposition experiment was conducted using human and pig cadavers, as pigs are often used as proxies for human cadavers in forensic research. The two measures of decomposition revealed two contrasting patterns of decomposition on pigs and humans, particularly in winter where TBS stabilised at similar values, but mass loss differed greatly. Mass loss was found to be faster in pigs than humans during early decomposition. Pigs lost 75% of their mass in winter, while humans lost less than 50%; however, in summer, both lost around 80% of their mass. TBS displayed similar patterns in both experiments, with TBS increasing more rapidly in pigs compared with humans but both eventually reaching similar TBS values in late decomposition. Measuring mass loss can provide additional information about decomposition progress that is missed if using TBS only. Key differences in decomposition progress between cadaver types were also observed, suggesting caution when extrapolating data from pigs to humans for forensic research and decomposition modelling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blake M. Dawson
- grid.1007.60000 0004 0486 528XCentre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW Australia
| | - James F. Wallman
- grid.1007.60000 0004 0486 528XCentre for Sustainable Ecosystem Solutions, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW Australia ,grid.117476.20000 0004 1936 7611Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW Australia
| | - Philip S. Barton
- grid.1040.50000 0001 1091 4859Future Regions Research Centre, Federation University Australia, Mount Helen, VIC, Australia
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Tembe D, Malatji MP, Mukaratirwa S. Molecular identification and diversity of adult arthropod carrion community collected from pig and sheep carcasses within the same locality during different stages of decomposition in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12500. [PMID: 34909274 PMCID: PMC8638566 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed at molecular identification and comparing the diversity of arthropods communities between pig and sheep carcasses during the cold and warm season in KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Adult arthropods found on and around the carcasses were collected using either fly traps or forceps. Molecular analyses confirmed the identification of twelve arthropod species collected from both sheep and pig carcasses during the cold season. Results showed that 11 of 12 arthropod species were common in both sheep and pig carcasses, with exception to Onthophagus vacca (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) (Linnaeus, 1767) and Atherigona soccata (Diptera: Muscidae) (Rondani, 1871) species which were unique to sheep and pig carcasses respectively. However, during the warm season, the sheep carcass attracted more arthropod (n = 13) species as compared to the pig carcass. The difference in the obtained arthropod was due to the presence of O. vacca which was also unique to the sheep carcass during this season. Furthermore, there was an addition of a beetle species Hycleus lunatus (Coleoptera: Meloidae) (Pallas, 1782), which was collected from both sheep and pig carcasses but unique to the warm season. The pig carcass attracted more dipteran flies during both warm (n = 1,519) and cold season (n = 779) as compared to sheep carcass during the warm (n = 511) and cold season (n = 229). In contrast, coleopterans were more abundant on the sheep carcass during the warm season (n = 391) and cold season (n = 135) as compared to the pig carcass in both warm season (n = 261) and cold season (n = 114). In overall, more flies and beetles were collected on both sheep and pig carcasses during the warm season, and this further highlight that temperature influenced the observed difference in the abundance of collected arthropod between seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danisile Tembe
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mokgadi Pulane Malatji
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Foundational Research and Services, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samson Mukaratirwa
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, West Indies
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Wang Y, Wang M, Luo C, Li L, Xu W, Hu G, Wang Y, Amendt J, Wang J. Dynamics of insects, microorganisms and muscle mRNA on pig carcasses and their significances in estimating PMI. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 329:111090. [PMID: 34752998 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The accurate estimate of the postmortem interval (PMI) is of vital significance in the investigation of homicide cases. In this study, three pig carcasses were placed in the field to study the pattern of insect succession, the change of microorganisms and the degradation of muscle tissue RNA during the decomposition process. The results showed that insects could quickly colonize the carcasses and still exist on them until the end of the experiment (41 days). Their development and succession patterns are useful indicators for PMI estimation. The diversity of rectal microorganisms decreased with the decomposition time. In different decomposition periods, significant differences in the rectal and soil microbial composition and relative abundance were found, which could be used to estimate the PMI with an accuracy of 3-4 days. The RNA of muscle tissue was found to have a time-dependent relationship with the PMI. Ppia and Gapdh showed a linear upward trend within 10 h after the death, followed by a gradual downward trend from 10 to 240 h. The expression of β-actin gene showed a gradual downward trend during 0-240 h. This is the first study in China to analyze the changes of insects, muscle RNA and microorganisms on pig carcasses in the same natural environment, which provide basic data for the PMI estimation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Man Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Chengliang Luo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Wang Xu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Guoliang Hu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Yinghui Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Frankfurt, Kennedyallee, Frankfurt/Main, Germany.
| | - Jiangfeng Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, China.
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Qubaiová J, Jakubec P, Montoya-Molina S, Novák M, Šuláková H. Influence of Diet on Development and Survival of Thanatophilus rugosus (Coleoptera: Silphidae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:2124-2129. [PMID: 34426839 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the effects of various diets on the development time and survival of the carrion beetle Thanatophilus rugosus (Fabricius, 1775). We attempted to find the best diet for rearing the species in laboratory conditions for entomological research and forensic purposes, and to further understand its feeding habits. The larval stages were monitored while feeding on three types of meat under a constant temperature. We discovered that the shortest development time in total was achieved in larvae fed with pork liver, followed closely by pork muscle. The longest development and lowest survival rates were observed when introducing a chicken diet. We were also able to identify specific stages during which the diet significantly affected the development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarin Qubaiová
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Jakubec
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Santiago Montoya-Molina
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Novák
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Hana Šuláková
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, CZ-165 00 Praha - Suchdol, Czech Republic
- Police of the Czech Republic, Institute of Criminalistics Prague, CZ-170 89 Praha, Czech Republic
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