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Schieweck A, Schulz N, Amendt J, Birngruber C, Holz F. Catch me if you can-emission patterns of human bodies in relation to postmortem changes. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:1603-1620. [PMID: 38456958 PMCID: PMC11164720 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03194-3] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
The present study examines for the first time the emission patterns and olfactory signatures of 9 complete human corpses of different stages of decomposition. Air sampling was performed inside the body bags with solid sorbents and analysed by coupled gas chromatography-mass spectrometry after thermal desorption (TD-GC-MS). Furthermore, odour-related substances were detected by gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O). Sulfurous compounds (mainly dimethyl di- and trisulfide) were identified as most important to the odour perception. Around 350 individual organic substances were detected by TD-GC-MS, notably sulfurous and nitrogenous substances as well as branched alkanes, aldehydes, ketones, alcohols, carboxylic acids, carboxylic acid esters and ethers. A range of terpenes was detected for the first time in a characteristic emission pattern over all decomposition stages. Concentrations of the substances varied greatly, and no correlation between the emission patterns, the stage of decomposition and the cause of death could be found. While previous studies often analysed pig cadavers or only parts of human tissue, the present study shows the importance of analysing complete human corpses over a range of decomposition stages. Moreover, it is shown that using body bags as a kind of "emission test chamber" is a very promising approach, also because it is a realistic application considering the usual transport and store of a body before autopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Schieweck
- Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry, Fraunhofer WKI, Riedenkamp 3, 38108, Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - Nicole Schulz
- Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry, Fraunhofer WKI, Riedenkamp 3, 38108, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Christoph Birngruber
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Franziska Holz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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2
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Thurn B, Schotsmans EMJ, Ueland M. Lime and odour: A preliminary investigation into the effect of hydrated lime on the volatiles emitted from human remains. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 358:111745. [PMID: 37301722 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The location of human remains is performed primarily through the aid of cadaver detection dogs, which rely on the malodour produced through decomposition of decaying bodies. Malefactors will attempt to conceal these putrefactive odours through chemical additions such as lime, which is also wrongly believed to accelerate decomposition and prevent the identification of the victim. Despite the frequency of lime in forensic applications, to date no research has been performed to determine its effect on the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released during human decomposition. This research was therefore conducted to ascertain the effects of hydrated lime on the VOC profile of human remains. Two human donors were used in a field trial at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER): one donor was covered with hydrated lime, and the other had no chemical additions acting as a control. VOC samples were collected over a period of 100 days and analysed using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). The volatile samples were accompanied by visual observations of how decomposition progressed. The results showed that lime application decreased the rate of decomposition and decreased total carrion insect activity. Lime increased the abundance of VOCs during the fresh and bloat stages of decay, however the abundance of compounds plateaued during active and advanced decomposition and were much lower than those detected from the control donor. Despite this suppression of VOCs, the study found that dimethyl disulfide and dimethyl trisulfide, key sulfur-containing compounds, were still produced in high quantities, and can thus still be used to locate chemically altered human remains. Knowledge of the effects of lime on human decomposition can inform the training of cadaver detection dogs, and ensure a greater chance at locating victims of crimes or mass disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget Thurn
- Centre for Forensic Sciences, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Eline M J Schotsmans
- Centre for Archaeological Science, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, NSW, Australia; PACEA De la Préhistoire à l'Actuel: Culture, Environnement et Anthropologie, UMR 5199, Université de Bordeaux, Pessac, France
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Sciences, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia.
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3
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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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Martin C, Malević M, Diederich C, Verheggen F. Copycatting the smell of death: Deciphering the role of cadaveric scent components used by detection dogs to locate human remains. J Forensic Sci 2023. [PMID: 37183668 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15277] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Human remains detection dogs (HRDD) are commonly used by law enforcement agencies to search for cadavers. Biological material is typically used as a training stimulus, also called aids, to train dogs to recognize the smell of cadavers. While HRDD training approaches have received extensive attention, information remains limited on the olfactory cues used to train them. Here, we aimed to decipher the chemical basis of detection dog olfaction. Five specific objectives were explored to precise whether the composition or the concentration of the training aids drives the HRDDs responses. We recorded the behavioral responses of four HRDDs exposed to different cadaveric-like smells. We found that HRDDs recognized a simplified synthetic aid composed of cadaveric compounds. The lowest concentration at which HRDDs continued to perceive the cadaveric smell was determined. HRDDs were not impacted by slight modifications to the chemical composition of a blend of odors that they have been trained with. HRDDs associated sulfur and nitrogen compounds as human cadaver. Our findings highlight a lack of specificity of HRDDs to cadaveric compounds, which could lead to error of detection. Moreover, all dogs did not positively respond to the same blends, despite being trained with the same aids and procedure. However, we confirmed that dogs could be trained with a simplified blend of molecules. The chemical composition of a training aid has, therefore, high consequences on the performance of the trained animal, and this conclusion opens additional questions regarding olfaction-based detection animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Martin
- Chemical and Behavioral Ecology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, TERRA, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Marta Malević
- Chemical and Behavioral Ecology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, TERRA, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Claire Diederich
- Namur Research Institute for Life Sciences (NARILIS), University of Namur, Namur, Belgium
| | - François Verheggen
- Chemical and Behavioral Ecology, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, TERRA, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
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Rojas CA, Marks SL, Borras E, Lesea H, McCartney MM, Coil D, Davis CE, Eisen JA. Characterization of the microbiome and volatile compounds in anal gland secretions from domestic cats (Felis catus) using metagenomics and metabolomics. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2883555. [PMID: 37214811 PMCID: PMC10197813 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2883555/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Animals rely on volatile chemical compounds for their communication and behavior. Many of these compounds are sequestered in endocrine and exocrine glands and are synthesized by anaerobic microbes. While the volatile organic compound (VOC) or microbiome composition of glandular secretions has been investigated in several mammalian species, few have linked specific bacterial taxa to the production of volatiles or to specific microbial gene pathways. Here, we use metagenomic sequencing, mass-spectrometry based metabolomics, and culturing to profile the microbial and volatile chemical constituents of anal gland secretions in twenty-three domestic cats (Felis catus), in attempts to identify organisms potentially involved in host odor production. We found that the anal gland microbiome was dominated by bacteria in the genera Corynebacterium, Bacteroides, Proteus, Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus, and showed striking variation among individual cats. Microbiome profiles also varied with host age and obesity. Metabolites such as fatty-acids, ketones, aldehydes and alcohols were detected in glandular secretions. Overall, microbiome and metabolome profiles were modestly correlated (r=0.17), indicating that a relationship exists between the bacteria in the gland and the metabolites produced in the gland. Functional analyses revealed the presence of genes predicted to code for enzymes involved in VOC metabolism such as dehydrogenases, reductases, and decarboxylases. From metagenomic data, we generated 85 high-quality metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs). Of these, four were inferred to have high relative abundance in metagenome profiles and had close relatives that were recovered as cultured isolates. These four MAGs were classified as Corynebacterium frankenforstense, Proteus mirabilis, Lactobacillus johnsonii, and Bacteroides fragilis. They represent strong candidates for further investigation of the mechanisms of volatile synthesis and scent production in the mammalian anal gland.
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Kumaraguru D, Osman K, Hamzah NH, Desa WNSM, Gabriel GF. Volatile organic compounds of diesel and porcine bone in a simulated controlled fire. CANADIAN SOCIETY OF FORENSIC SCIENCE JOURNAL 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2172128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dheephikha Kumaraguru
- Forensic Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Khairul Osman
- Forensic Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Noor Hazfalinda Hamzah
- Forensic Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Wan Nur Syuhaila Mat Desa
- Forensic Science Programme, School of Health Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kubang Kerian, Malaysia
| | - Gina Francesca Gabriel
- Forensic Science Programme, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Bikaun JM, Bates T, Bollen M, Flematti GR, Melonek J, Praveen P, Grassl J. Volatile biomarkers for non-invasive detection of American foulbrood, a threat to honey bee pollination services. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 845:157123. [PMID: 35810895 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157123] [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] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Honey bees provide essential environmental services, pollinating both agricultural and natural ecosystems that are crucial for human health. However, these pollination services are under threat by outbreaks of the bacterial honey bee disease American foulbrood (AFB). Caused by the bacterium, Paenibacillus larvae, AFB kills honey bee larvae, converting the biomass to a foul smelling, spore-laden mass. Due to the bacterium's tough endospores, which are easily spread and extremely persistent, AFB management requires the destruction of infected colonies in many countries. AFB detection remains a significant problem for beekeepers: diagnosis is often slow, relying on beekeepers visually identifying symptoms in the colony and molecular confirmation. Delayed detection can result in large outbreaks during high-density beekeeping pollination events, jeopardising livelihoods and food security. In an effort to improve diagnostics, we investigated volatile compounds associated with AFB-diseased brood in vitro and in beehive air. Using Solid Phase Microextraction and Gas Chromatography Mass-Spectrometry, we identified 40 compounds as volatile biomarkers for AFB infections, including 16 compounds previously unreported in honey bee studies. In the field, we detected half of the biomarkers in situ (in beehive air) and demonstrated their sensitivity and accuracy for diagnosing AFB. The most sensitive volatile biomarker, 2,5-dimethylpyrazine, was exclusively detected in AFB-disease larvae and hives, and was detectable in beehives with <10 AFB-symptomatic larvae. These, to our knowledge, previously undescribed biomarkers are prime candidates to be targeted by a portable sensor device for rapid and non-invasive diagnosis of AFB in beehives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Bikaun
- Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products, Yanchep, Australia; Honey Bee Health Research Group, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Tiffane Bates
- Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products, Yanchep, Australia; Honey Bee Health Research Group, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Maike Bollen
- Metabolomics Australia, Centre for Microscopy, Characterisation and Analysis, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Gavin R Flematti
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Joanna Melonek
- ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Energy Biology, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Australia
| | - Praveen Praveen
- Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products, Yanchep, Australia; Honey Bee Health Research Group, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Julia Grassl
- Cooperative Research Centre for Honey Bee Products, Yanchep, Australia; Honey Bee Health Research Group, School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.
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Barros MAS, Iannuzzi L, Holanda Silva IL, Otálora‐Ardila A, Bernard E. Factors affecting searcher efficiency and scavenger removal of bat carcasses in Neotropical wind facilities. J Wildl Manage 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/jwmg.22198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marília A. S. Barros
- Programa de Pós‐Graduação em Biologia Animal, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n Recife 50670‐420 PE Brazil
- Laboratório de Ciência Aplicada à Conservação da Biodiversidade, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n Recife 50670‐420 PE Brazil
| | - Luciana Iannuzzi
- Laboratório de Taxonomia e Ecologia de Insetos, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n Recife 50670‐420 PE Brazil
| | - Isabelle Leite Holanda Silva
- Programa de Pós‐graduação em Biologia Vegetal, Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n 50670‐420 PE Brazil
| | - Aída Otálora‐Ardila
- Laboratório de Ciência Aplicada à Conservação da Biodiversidade, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n Recife 50670‐420 PE Brazil
- Grupo en Conservación y Manejo de Vida Silvestre, Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Av. Carrera 30 No. 45‐03 Bogotá 111321 DC Colombia
| | - Enrico Bernard
- Laboratório de Ciência Aplicada à Conservação da Biodiversidade, Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, Av. Professor Moraes Rego s/n Recife 50670‐420 PE Brazil
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9
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Ueland M, Collins S, Maestrini L, Forbes SL, Luong S. Fresh vs. frozen human decomposition – A preliminary investigation of lipid degradation products as biomarkers of post-mortem interval. Forensic Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2021.100335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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10
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Flint CA, Tomberlin JK. Optimizing a Dual-Choice Cube Olfactometer Design for Measuring Adult Secondary Screwworm (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Attraction to a Resource. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:994-1003. [PMID: 33200782 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa254] [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: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Detecting and locating a carrion resource is critical for the reproduction of necrophagous insects and initiating forensically important timelines. Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) primarily use olfactory cues in the form of volatile organic compounds to locate a suitable resource. Factors governing detecting and locating a resource have been studied using various behavior assays with modifications to suit the experiment design, such as the dual-choice cube olfactometer, which was examined in the current study. Systems optimization ensures biologically relevant and consistent results across replicates. In this study, two responses were measured: 1) leaving cube for either control or treatment and 2) choice between control and treatment. Phenotype (e.g., male, non-gravid, gravid) and total blow fly, Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), number to respond were measured. Four parameters were assessed for their impact on response: 1) adjustment time in cube before trial, 2) trial length, 3) sugar/water presence, and 4) screening type in arms. Approximately, 70% of all phenotypes responded to liver with the 30-min adjustment period where only 50% responded with other adjustment periods. Trial length had a significant impact on response (35% increase in the 8 h trial compared to shorter durations); however, significant response to treatment was lost by increasing trial length. The presence of sugar/water decreased gravid and non-gravid response by 35% but did not impact males. Screening had no influence on overall or treatment response. Data indicate experiment design impacts fly response. Future studies should optimize parameters for their given fly population prior to initiating experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey A Flint
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX
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Kotzé Z, Delclos PJ, Knap AH, Wade TL, Tomberlin JK. Volatile organic compounds in variably aged carrion impacted by the presence of the primary colonizer, Cochliomyia macellaria (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1005-1014. [PMID: 33410923 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02478-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The attraction and colonization of vertebrate remains by carrion-associated arthropods are processes largely governed by olfaction. As remains decompose, they emit a bouquet of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which in part originate from endogenous and exogenous microbes surrounding the carcass or from the carcass itself. The composition and concentration of VOCs are influenced by the presence and abundance of microbial species and arthropods. Blowfly species, such as Cochliomyia macellaria, play a critical role in nutrient recycling and the decomposition process of carrion. Gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy analysis was used to identify and classify volatile emissions from insect-colonized (with C. macellaria) and uncolonized rat carcasses, as well as a standard Gainesville diet, over a 10-day period. There were significant differences in composition and abundance of compounds present in each treatment, with significant effects of time, and different compound composition between treatments. Notable indicator compounds included, but were not limited to, indole, dimethyl disulfide, and dimethyl trisulfide. A high compound richness, and a low compound diversity, was detected over the 10-day period. The indicator compounds detected across all treatments were found to be of microbial origin, highlighting the importance of microbes in decomposition processes and arthropod attraction to carrion. This study also discusses the significant impact of necrophagous arthropods to the VOC profile of carrion. The results of this study provide insight into the changes in decomposition VOCs over time, with an explanation of compounds in high concentration known to be attractive to carrion-colonizing arthropods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zanthé Kotzé
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Pablo J Delclos
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Anthony H Knap
- Geochemical and Environmental Research Group, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Terry L Wade
- Geochemical and Environmental Research Group, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Jeffery K Tomberlin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
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Clases D, Ueland M, Gonzalez de Vega R, Doble P, Pröfrock D. Quantitative speciation of volatile sulphur compounds from human cadavers by GC-ICP-MS. Talanta 2021; 221:121424. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2020.121424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
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13
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Characterization of the volatile odor profile from larval masses in a field decomposition setting. Forensic Chem 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2020.100288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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14
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Sorbent coatings for solid-phase microextraction targeted towards the analysis of death-related polar analytes coupled to comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography: Comparison of zwitterionic polymeric ionic liquids versus commercial coatings. Microchem J 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2020.105243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Recinos-Aguilar YM, García-García MD, Malo EA, Cruz-López L, Cruz-Esteban S, Rojas JC. The Succession of Flies of Forensic Importance Is Influenced by Volatiles Organic Compounds Emitted During the First Hours of Decomposition of Chicken Remains. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1411-1420. [PMID: 32350507 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
After death, a series of primary reactions occur that produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are released into the environment. In this study, we investigated if the succession of flies of forensic importance in the first hours after death is mediated by VOCs in order to better understanding of the ecology of necrophagous insects. In total, 685 adult insects (Diptera and Hymenoptera) were collected by traps baited with chicken remains at different decomposition times (0, 6, 12, 24, 36, or 48 h). Of the total of insects caught, individuals from six families of Diptera can be cataloged of forensic importance. The most abundant dipteran family was Piophilidae with 213 individuals, followed by Calliphoridae with 178 specimens. Of the total flies caught, 90% were females and the rest were males. Most of the caught females were categorized as gravid, which visited more often the decaying tissues compared to nongravid females. The abundance of the flies increased in the remains with a longer time of decomposition. Six VOCs emitted in different relative quantities were identified according to the decomposition time of the remains. An apparent association was observed between the emission of ρ-cresol with Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann), between the emission of phenol, dimethyl disulfide, and dimethyl trisulfide with Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart), and between the emissions of indole with Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricius).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yensy María Recinos-Aguilar
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto km 2.5, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, México
| | - María Dolores García-García
- Facultad de Biología, Departamento de Zoología y Antropología Física, Campus Universitario de Espinardo. Murcia, España
| | - Edi A Malo
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto km 2.5, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, México
| | - Leopoldo Cruz-López
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto km 2.5, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, México
| | - Samuel Cruz-Esteban
- Instituto de Ecología, A. C. Red de diversidad Biológica del Occidente Mexicano. Avenida Lázaro Cárdenas 253, CP, Pátzcuaro, Michoacán, México
- CONACyT. Avenida Insurgentes Sur 1582, 03940. Ciudad de México, México
| | - Julio C Rojas
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto km 2.5, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, México
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Carraro V, Cruz I, Ururahy-Rodrigues A, Maleck M. Desenvolvimento pós-embrionário de Chrysomya putoria (Calliphoridae) em carne equina e sua importância para a entomologia e veterinária forenses. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Devido à importância médica, veterinária, ambiental e forense do califorídeo Chrysomya putoria (Diptera), foi avaliado o desempenho apresentado por estágios imaturos criados em carne de cavalo. Os espécimes foram colocados em câmaras aclimatizadas reguladas a 30 ºC, 60 ± 10% UR e 14 horas de fotofase. Os estágios larval e pupal concluíram seu desenvolvimento em 4,16 e 4,12 dias, respectivamente. As larvas pós-alimentação e pupas com 24h de idade pesaram, em média, 58,06 e 40,10mg, respectivamente. As taxas de emergência registradas foram de 65% nas condições experimentais propostas. Como os compostos orgânicos voláteis são diferentes na decomposição de um animal para outro, este trabalho e outros realizados com a mesma dieta são os mais apropriados para estimativa de intervalo post mortem envolvendo cavalos.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - M. Maleck
- Universidade de Vassouras, Brazil; Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Brazil
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17
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Simon A, Lazarowski L, Singletary M, Barrow J, Van Arsdale K, Angle T, Waggoner P, Giles K. A Review of the Types of Training Aids Used for Canine Detection Training. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:313. [PMID: 32596267 PMCID: PMC7301692 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The canine detection community is a diverse one, ranging from scientific fields such as behavior, genetics, veterinary medicine, chemistry, and biology to applications in law enforcement, military, medicine, and agricultural/environmental detection. This diversity has allowed for a flourishing and innovative community, yet it has also led to little acceptance and agreement on terminology. This is especially true when discussing the variety of training aids used in olfactory-based exercises. In general, authentic materials and pseudo-scents are the most commonly discussed, with the former accepted widely for training and certification, and the latter more often disregarded. However, as advances are made in the creation of training materials, alternative training aids are being introduced that do not fit into either of these categories. The misconceptions surrounding how these alternative training aids are manufactured has led to confusion on their classification, and therefore their reliance as an effective tool. This manuscript will review the existing language surrounding canine training aids, address relevant research revealing effectiveness, and clarify the different types based on their manufacture, chemical nature, and fundamental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Simon
- AGS Forensics, LLC, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Lucia Lazarowski
- Canine Performance Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Melissa Singletary
- Canine Performance Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Jason Barrow
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, Quantico, VA, United States
| | - Kelly Van Arsdale
- Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory, Quantico, VA, United States
| | - Thomas Angle
- Canine Performance Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Paul Waggoner
- Canine Performance Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, Auburn, AL, United States
| | - Kathleen Giles
- Giles Consulting, LLC, Huntington Beach, CA, United States
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18
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Revolution in death sciences: body farms and taphonomics blooming. A review investigating the advantages, ethical and legal aspects in a Swiss context. Int J Legal Med 2020; 134:1875-1895. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02272-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Deo A, Forbes SL, Stuart BH, Ueland M. Profiling the seasonal variability of decomposition odour from human remains in a temperate Australian environment. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2019.1637938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alisha Deo
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Barbara H. Stuart
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia
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Vass AA. Death is in the air: Confirmation of decomposition without a corpse. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 301:149-159. [PMID: 31153992 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
This case report summarises the investigation of a death scene in the trunk of a car. Air sampling, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry on samples of carpet and tyre well scrapings from the vehicle's trunk were utilised to confirm the presence of a human decompositional event even though no human remains were discovered in the vehicle. Air sampling has been used in numerous industries for many decades, but only recently has been applied to forensic investigations although it has been at the centre of controversy over the use of this technique in such cases. This report also describes the value of such investigative tools and points to the discovery of evidence, which, without the use of these techniques, would not have been identified.
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21
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Dubois LM, Stefanuto PH, Perrault KA, Delporte G, Delvenne P, Focant JF. Comprehensive Approach for Monitoring Human Tissue Degradation. Chromatographia 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10337-019-03710-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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22
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Williams A, Rogers C, Cassella J. Why does the UK need a Human Taphonomy Facility? Forensic Sci Int 2019; 296:74-79. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2018] [Revised: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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23
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Giannoukos S, Agapiou A, Brkić B, Taylor S. Volatolomics: A broad area of experimentation. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2018; 1105:136-147. [PMID: 30584978 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Chemical analysis (detection and monitoring) of compounds associated with the metabolic activities of an organism is at the cutting edge of science. Volatile metabolomics (volatolomics) are applied in a broad range of applications including: biomedical research (e.g. disease diagnostic tools, personalized healthcare and nutrition, etc.), toxicological analysis (e.g. exposure tool to environmental pollutants, toxic and hazardous chemical environments, industrial accidents, etc.), molecular communications, forensics, safety and security (e.g. search and rescue operations). In the present review paper, an overview of recent advances and applications of volatolomics will be given. The main focus will be on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) originating from biological secretions of various organisms (e.g. microorganisms, insects, plants, humans) and resulting fusion of chemical information. Bench-top and portable or field-deployable technologies-systems will also be presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Giannoukos
- Laboratory of Atmospheric Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI), 5232 Villigen, Switzerland; University of Liverpool, Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Liverpool L69 3GJ, UK
| | - A Agapiou
- University of Cyprus, Department of Chemistry, P.O. Box 20357, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - B Brkić
- BioSense Institute, University of Novi Sad, Dr Zorana Đinđića 1, 21 101 Novi Sad, Serbia
| | - S Taylor
- University of Liverpool, Department of Electrical Engineering and Electronics, Liverpool L69 3GJ, UK; Q Technologies Ltd, 100 Childwall Road, Liverpool L15 6UX, UK.
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Rendine M, Fiore C, Bertozzi G, De Carlo D, Filetti V, Fortarezza P, Riezzo I. Decomposing Human Blood: Canine Detection Odor Signature and Volatile Organic Compounds. J Forensic Sci 2018; 64:587-592. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Rendine
- Section of Legal Medicine Azienda Ospedaliero – Universitaria “Ospedali Riuniti” of Foggia Ospedale Colonnello D'Avanzo Viale degli Aviatori 1 71100 Foggia Italy
| | - Carmela Fiore
- Section of Forensic Toxicology Ospedale G. Tatarella Via Trinitapoli 71042 Cerignola (FG) Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Section of Legal Medicine Azienda Ospedaliero – Universitaria “Ospedali Riuniti” of Foggia Ospedale Colonnello D'Avanzo Viale degli Aviatori 1 71100 Foggia Italy
| | - Dania De Carlo
- Section of Legal Medicine Azienda Ospedaliero – Universitaria “Ospedali Riuniti” of Foggia Ospedale Colonnello D'Avanzo Viale degli Aviatori 1 71100 Foggia Italy
| | - Vera Filetti
- Anatomy and Histology Department of Biomedical Sciences and Biotechnologies University of Catania Via Santa Sofia 78 95123 Catania Sicily Italy
| | - Palmira Fortarezza
- Section of Forensic Toxicology Ospedale G. Tatarella Via Trinitapoli 71042 Cerignola (FG) Italy
| | - Irene Riezzo
- Section of Legal Medicine Azienda Ospedaliero – Universitaria “Ospedali Riuniti” of Foggia Ospedale Colonnello D'Avanzo Viale degli Aviatori 1 71100 Foggia Italy
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Gherghel S, Morgan RM, Arrebola-Liébanas J, Romero-González R, Blackman CS, Garrido-Frenich A, Parkin IP. Development of a HS-SPME/GC–MS method for the analysis of volatile organic compounds from fabrics for forensic reconstruction applications. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 290:207-218. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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26
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27
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Knobel Z, Ueland M, Nizio KD, Patel D, Forbes SL. A comparison of human and pig decomposition rates and odour profiles in an Australian environment. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2018.1439100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zaccariah Knobel
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
| | - Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
| | - Katie D. Nizio
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
| | - Darshil Patel
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
| | - Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
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28
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The analysis of textiles associated with decomposing remains as a natural training aid for cadaver-detection dogs. Forensic Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2017.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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29
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Rosier E, Loix S, Develter W, Van de Voorde W, Cuypers E, Tytgat J. Differentiation between decomposed remains of human origin and bigger mammals. J Forensic Leg Med 2017; 50:28-35. [PMID: 28686981 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2017.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 04/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study is a follow-up study in the search for a human specific marker in the decomposition where the VOC-profile of decomposing human, pig, lamb and roe remains were analyzed using a thermal desorber combined with a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer in a laboratory environment during 6 months. The combination of 8 previously identified human and pig specific compounds (ethyl propionate, propyl propionate, propyl butyrate, ethyl pentanoate, 3-methylthio-1-propanol, methyl(methylthio)ethyl disulfide, diethyl disulfide and pyridine) was also seen in these analyzed mammals. However, combined with 5 additional compounds (hexane, heptane, octane, N-(3-methylbutyl)- and N-(2-methylpropyl)acetamide) human remains could be separated from pig, lamb and roe remains. Based on a higher number of remains analyzed, as compared with the pilot study, it was no longer possible to rely on the 5 previously proposed esters to separate pig from human remains. From this follow-up study reported, it was found that pyridine is an interesting compound specific to human remains. Such a human specific marker can help in the training of cadaver dogs or in the development of devices to search for human remains. However, further investigations have to verify these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Rosier
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Loix
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - W Develter
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Sint-Rafaël, Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - W Van de Voorde
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Sint-Rafaël, Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - E Cuypers
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - J Tytgat
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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30
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Verheggen F, Perrault KA, Megido RC, Dubois LM, Francis F, Haubruge E, Forbes SL, Focant JF, Stefanuto PH. The Odor of Death: An Overview of Current Knowledge on Characterization and Applications. Bioscience 2017. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/bix046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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31
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Iqbal MA, Nizio KD, Ueland M, Forbes SL. Forensic decomposition odour profiling: A review of experimental designs and analytical techniques. Trends Analyt Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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32
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Koziel JA, Nguyen LT, Glanville TD, Ahn H, Frana TS, Hans van Leeuwen J. Method for sampling and analysis of volatile biomarkers in process gas from aerobic digestion of poultry carcasses using time-weighted average SPME and GC-MS. Food Chem 2017; 232:799-807. [PMID: 28490143 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2017.04.062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Revised: 03/29/2017] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A passive sampling method, using retracted solid-phase microextraction (SPME) - gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and time-weighted averaging, was developed and validated for tracking marker volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during aerobic digestion of biohazardous animal tissue. The retracted SPME configuration protects the fragile fiber from buffeting by the process gas stream, and it requires less equipment and is potentially more biosecure than conventional active sampling methods. VOC concentrations predicted via a model based on Fick's first law of diffusion were within 6.6-12.3% of experimentally controlled values after accounting for VOC adsorption to the SPME fiber housing. Method detection limits for five marker VOCs ranged from 0.70 to 8.44ppbv and were statistically equivalent (p>0.05) to those for active sorbent-tube-based sampling. The sampling time of 30min and fiber retraction of 5mm were found to be optimal for the tissue digestion process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacek A Koziel
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
| | - Lam T Nguyen
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Thomas D Glanville
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Heekwon Ahn
- Department of Animal Biosystems Science, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Timothy S Frana
- Department of Veterinary Diagnostic and Production Animal Medicine, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, USA
| | - J Hans van Leeuwen
- Department of Civil, Construction and Environmental Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA; Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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Cuzuel V, Cognon G, Rivals I, Sauleau C, Heulard F, Thiébaut D, Vial J. Origin, Analytical Characterization, and Use of Human Odor in Forensics. J Forensic Sci 2017; 62:330-350. [PMID: 28120328 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Developing a strategy to characterize the odor prints of individuals should be relevant to support identification obtained using dogs in courts of justice. This article proposes an overview of the techniques used for the forensic profiling of human odor. After reviewing the origin of human odor-both genetic and physiological-the different analytical steps from sample collection to statistical data processing are presented. The first challenge is the collection of odor, whether by direct sampling with polymer patches, cotton gauze, etc., or indirect sampling with devices like Scent Transfer Unit. Then, analytical techniques are presented. Analyses are commonly performed with gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. As they yield large amounts of data, advanced statistical tools are needed to provide efficient and reliable data processing, which is essential to give more probative value to information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Cuzuel
- UMR 8231 Chimie Biologie et Innovation (CBI), Laboratoire Sciences Analytiques Bioanalytiques et Miniaturisation, ESPCI Paris-CNRS, PSL Institute, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75231, PARIS Cedex, France.,Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Caserne Lange, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, BP 20312 Pontoise, 95037, Cergy Pontoise Cedex, France
| | - Guillaume Cognon
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Caserne Lange, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, BP 20312 Pontoise, 95037, Cergy Pontoise Cedex, France
| | - Isabelle Rivals
- Equipe de Statistique Appliquée, ESPCI Paris, UMRS 1158 Neurophysiologie Respiratoire Expérimentale et Clinique, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Charles Sauleau
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Caserne Lange, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, BP 20312 Pontoise, 95037, Cergy Pontoise Cedex, France
| | - François Heulard
- Institut de Recherche Criminelle de la Gendarmerie Nationale, Caserne Lange, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, BP 20312 Pontoise, 95037, Cergy Pontoise Cedex, France
| | - Didier Thiébaut
- UMR 8231 Chimie Biologie et Innovation (CBI), Laboratoire Sciences Analytiques Bioanalytiques et Miniaturisation, ESPCI Paris-CNRS, PSL Institute, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75231, PARIS Cedex, France
| | - Jérôme Vial
- UMR 8231 Chimie Biologie et Innovation (CBI), Laboratoire Sciences Analytiques Bioanalytiques et Miniaturisation, ESPCI Paris-CNRS, PSL Institute, 10 rue Vauquelin, 75231, PARIS Cedex, France
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34
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Rust L, Nizio KD, Forbes SL. The influence of ageing and surface type on the odour profile of blood-detection dog training aids. Anal Bioanal Chem 2016; 408:6349-60. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-016-9748-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 06/20/2016] [Accepted: 06/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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35
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Rosier E, Loix S, Develter W, Van de Voorde W, Tytgat J, Cuypers E. Time-dependent VOC-profile of decomposed human and animal remains in laboratory environment. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 266:164-169. [PMID: 27285065 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2016.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A validated method using a thermal desorber combined with a gas chromatograph coupled to a mass spectrometer was used to identify the volatile organic compounds released in decomposed human and animal remains after 9 and 12 months in glass jars in a laboratory environment. This is a follow-up study on a previous report where the first 6 months of decomposition of 6 human and 26 animal remains was investigated. In the first report, out of 452 identified compounds, a combination of 8 compounds was proposed as human and pig specific. The goal of the current study was to investigate if these 8 compounds were still released after 9 and 12 months. The next results were noticed: 287 compounds were identified; only 9 new compounds were detected and 173 were no longer seen. Sulfur-containing compounds were less prevalent as compared to the first month of decomposition. The appearance of nitrogen-containing compounds and alcohols was increasingly evident during the first 6 months, and the same trend was seen in the following 6 months. Esters became less important after 6 months. From the proposed human and pig specific compounds, diethyl disulfide was only detected during the first months of decomposition. Interestingly, the 4 proposed human and pig specific esters, as well as pyridine, 3-methylthio-1-propanol and methyl(methylthio)ethyl disulfide were still present after 9 and 12 months of decomposition. This means that these 7 human and pig specific markers can be used in the development of training aids for cadaver dogs during the whole decomposition process. Diethyl disulfide can be used in training aids for the first month of decomposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Rosier
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - S Loix
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - W Develter
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Sint-Rafaël, Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - W Van de Voorde
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Sint-Rafaël, Kapucijnenvoer 33, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - J Tytgat
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - E Cuypers
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, PO Box 922, Herestraat 49, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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36
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Armstrong P, Nizio KD, Perrault KA, Forbes SL. Establishing the volatile profile of pig carcasses as analogues for human decomposition during the early postmortem period. Heliyon 2016; 2:e00070. [PMID: 27441249 PMCID: PMC4945964 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2016.e00070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Revised: 12/09/2015] [Accepted: 01/21/2016] [Indexed: 10/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Following a mass disaster, it is important that victims are rapidly located as the chances of survival decrease greatly after approximately 48 h. Urban search and rescue (USAR) teams may use a range of tools to assist their efforts but detector dogs still remain one of the most effective search tools to locate victims of mass disasters. USAR teams can choose to deploy human scent dogs (trained to locate living victims) or human remains detection (HRD) dogs (trained to locate deceased victims). However, little is known about the variation between live human scent and postmortem human remains scent and the timeframe during which one type of scent transitions to the other. The aim of the current study was to measure the change in the scent profile of human decomposition analogues during the first 72 h postmortem by measuring the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that comprise the odour. Three pig carcasses (Sus scrofa domesticus L.) were placed on a soil surface and allowed to decompose under natural conditions. Decomposition odour was sampled frequently up to 75 h postmortem and analysed using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography - time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). A total of 105 postmortem VOCs were identified during the early postmortem period. The VOC profile during the early postmortem period was highly dynamic, changing both hourly and daily. A transition period was observed after 43 h postmortem, where the VOC profile appeared to shift from a distinct antemortem odour to a more generalised postmortem odour. These findings are important in informing USAR teams and their use of detector dogs for disaster victim recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Armstrong
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - K D Nizio
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - K A Perrault
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - S L Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, PO Box 123, Broadway, NSW, 2007, Australia
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Forbes S, Troobnikoff A, Ueland M, Nizio K, Perrault K. Profiling the decomposition odour at the grave surface before and after probing. Forensic Sci Int 2016; 259:193-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.12.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 12/27/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Rosier E, Loix S, Develter W, Van de Voorde W, Tytgat J, Cuypers E. The Search for a Volatile Human Specific Marker in the Decomposition Process. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0137341. [PMID: 26375029 PMCID: PMC4572707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0137341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, a validated method using a thermal desorber combined with a gas chromatograph coupled to mass spectrometry was used to identify the volatile organic compounds released during decomposition of 6 human and 26 animal remains in a laboratory environment during a period of 6 months. 452 compounds were identified. Among them a human specific marker was sought using principle component analysis. We found a combination of 8 compounds (ethyl propionate, propyl propionate, propyl butyrate, ethyl pentanoate, pyridine, diethyl disulfide, methyl(methylthio)ethyl disulfide and 3-methylthio-1-propanol) that led to the distinction of human and pig remains from other animal remains. Furthermore, it was possible to separate the pig remains from human remains based on 5 esters (3-methylbutyl pentanoate, 3-methylbutyl 3-methylbutyrate, 3-methylbutyl 2-methylbutyrate, butyl pentanoate and propyl hexanoate). Further research in the field with full bodies has to corroborate these results and search for one or more human specific markers. These markers would allow a more efficiently training of cadaver dogs or portable detection devices could be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Rosier
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - S. Loix
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - W. Develter
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - W. Van de Voorde
- Imaging & Pathology Department, Division Forensic Biomedical Sciences, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - J. Tytgat
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - E. Cuypers
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- * E-mail:
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Perrault KA, Stefanuto PH, Stuart BH, Rai T, Focant JF, Forbes SL. Detection of decomposition volatile organic compounds in soil following removal of remains from a surface deposition site. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2015; 11:376-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-015-9693-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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40
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Perrault KA, Nizio KD, Forbes SL. A Comparison of One-Dimensional and Comprehensive Two-Dimensional Gas Chromatography for Decomposition Odour Profiling Using Inter-Year Replicate Field Trials. Chromatographia 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10337-015-2916-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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41
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GC × GC–TOFMS and supervised multivariate approaches to study human cadaveric decomposition olfactive signatures. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:4767-78. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-8683-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 04/02/2015] [Accepted: 04/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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42
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Agapiou A, Zorba E, Mikedi K, McGregor L, Spiliopoulou C, Statheropoulos M. Analysis of volatile organic compounds released from the decay of surrogate human models simulating victims of collapsed buildings by thermal desorption-comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography-time of flight mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta 2015; 883:99-108. [PMID: 26088782 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2015.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Field experiments were devised to mimic the entrapment conditions under the rubble of collapsed buildings aiming to investigate the evolution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during the early dead body decomposition stage. Three pig carcasses were placed inside concrete tunnels of a search and rescue (SAR) operational field terrain for simulating the entrapment environment after a building collapse. The experimental campaign employed both laboratory and on-site analytical methods running in parallel. The current work focuses only on the results of the laboratory method using thermal desorption coupled to comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (TD-GC×GC-TOF MS). The flow-modulated TD-GC×GC-TOF MS provided enhanced separation of the VOC profile and served as a reference method for the evaluation of the on-site analytical methods in the current experimental campaign. Bespoke software was used to deconvolve the VOC profile to extract as much information as possible into peak lists. In total, 288 unique VOCs were identified (i.e., not found in blank samples). The majority were aliphatics (172), aromatics (25) and nitrogen compounds (19), followed by ketones (17), esters (13), alcohols (12), aldehydes (11), sulfur (9), miscellaneous (8) and acid compounds (2). The TD-GC×GC-TOF MS proved to be a sensitive and powerful system for resolving the chemical puzzle of above-ground "scent of death".
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Affiliation(s)
- A Agapiou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus.
| | - E Zorba
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 115 27 Goudi, Greece
| | - K Mikedi
- School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Field Analytical Chemistry and Technology Unit, 9 Iroon Polytechniou Street, Athens 157 73, Greece
| | - L McGregor
- Markes International Ltd., Gwaun Elai Medi Science Campus, Llantrisant, RCT CF72 8XL, UK
| | - C Spiliopoulou
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Medical School, University of Athens, 75 Mikras Asias Str., 115 27 Goudi, Greece
| | - M Statheropoulos
- School of Chemical Engineering, National Technical University of Athens, Field Analytical Chemistry and Technology Unit, 9 Iroon Polytechniou Street, Athens 157 73, Greece
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Dalva M, Moore TR, Kalacska M, Leblanc G, Costopoulos A. Nitrous oxide, methane and carbon dioxide dynamics from experimental pig graves. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 247:41-7. [PMID: 25544693 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2014] [Revised: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 12/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Twelve pig carcasses were buried in single, shallow and deep (30 and 90 cm, respectively) graves at an experimental site near Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, with three shallow and three deep wrapped in black plastic garbage bags. An additional six carcasses were left at the surface to decompose, three of which were bagged. Six reference pits without remains were also dug. The objective of this three-year study was to examine the biogeochemistry and utility of nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in grave detection and whether grave depth or cadaver condition (bagged versus bare) affected soil pore air concentrations and emission of the three gases. Graves showed significantly higher (α=0.05) concentrations and surface fluxes of N2O and CO2 than reference pits, but there was no difference in CH4 between graves and reference pits. While CH4 decreased with depth in the soil profiles, N2O and CO2 showed a large increase compared to reference pits. Shallow graves showed significantly higher emissions and pore air concentrations of N2O and CO2 than deep graves, as did bare versus bagged carcasses.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Dalva
- Department of Geography, McGill University, 805 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC, Canada H3A 0B9.
| | - T R Moore
- Department of Geography, McGill University, 805 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC, Canada H3A 0B9.
| | - M Kalacska
- Department of Geography, McGill University, 805 Sherbrooke St. W., Montreal, QC, Canada H3A 0B9.
| | - G Leblanc
- National Research Council Canada, Flight Research Laboratory, 1920 Research Rd., Ottawa, ON, Canada K1A 0R6.
| | - A Costopoulos
- Department of Anthropology, McGill University, 855 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, QC, Canada H3A 2T7.
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Perrault KA, Stefanuto PH, Stuart BH, Rai T, Focant JF, Forbes SL. Reducing variation in decomposition odour profiling using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography. J Sep Sci 2014; 38:73-80. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.201400935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2014] [Revised: 10/13/2014] [Accepted: 10/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Pierre-Hugues Stefanuto
- CART, Organic and Biological Analytical Chemistry Group; Department of Chemistry; University of Liège; Liège Belgium
| | - Barbara H. Stuart
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney; Australia
| | - Tapan Rai
- School of Mathematical Sciences; University of Technology Sydney; Australia
| | - Jean-François Focant
- CART, Organic and Biological Analytical Chemistry Group; Department of Chemistry; University of Liège; Liège Belgium
| | - Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney; Australia
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Forbes SL, Perrault KA, Stefanuto PH, Nizio KD, Focant JF. Comparison of the decomposition VOC profile during winter and summer in a moist, mid-latitude (Cfb) climate. PLoS One 2014; 9:e113681. [PMID: 25412504 PMCID: PMC4239107 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0113681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The investigation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with decomposition is an emerging field in forensic taphonomy due to their importance in locating human remains using biological detectors such as insects and canines. A consistent decomposition VOC profile has not yet been elucidated due to the intrinsic impact of the environment on the decomposition process in different climatic zones. The study of decomposition VOCs has typically occurred during the warmer months to enable chemical profiling of all decomposition stages. The present study investigated the decomposition VOC profile in air during both warmer and cooler months in a moist, mid-latitude (Cfb) climate as decomposition occurs year-round in this environment. Pig carcasses (Sus scrofa domesticus L.) were placed on a soil surface to decompose naturally and their VOC profile was monitored during the winter and summer months. Corresponding control sites were also monitored to determine the natural VOC profile of the surrounding soil and vegetation. VOC samples were collected onto sorbent tubes and analyzed using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography – time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOFMS). The summer months were characterized by higher temperatures and solar radiation, greater rainfall accumulation, and comparable humidity when compared to the winter months. The rate of decomposition was faster and the number and abundance of VOCs was proportionally higher in summer. However, a similar trend was observed in winter and summer demonstrating a rapid increase in VOC abundance during active decay with a second increase in abundance occurring later in the decomposition process. Sulfur-containing compounds, alcohols and ketones represented the most abundant classes of compounds in both seasons, although almost all 10 compound classes identified contributed to discriminating the stages of decomposition throughout both seasons. The advantages of GC×GC-TOFMS were demonstrated for detecting and identifying trace levels of VOCs, particularly ethers, which are rarely reported as decomposition VOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Katelynn A. Perrault
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW, Australia
| | - Pierre-Hugues Stefanuto
- CART, Organic and Biological Analytical Chemistry Group, Chemistry Department, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - Katie D. Nizio
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, NSW, Australia
| | - Jean-François Focant
- CART, Organic and Biological Analytical Chemistry Group, Chemistry Department, University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
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46
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Effect of age and storage conditions on the volatile organic compound profile of blood. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2014; 10:570-82. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-014-9610-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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47
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48
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A Longitudinal Study of Decomposition Odour in Soil Using Sorbent Tubes and Solid Phase Microextraction. CHROMATOGRAPHY 2014. [DOI: 10.3390/chromatography1030120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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49
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Forbes SL, Perrault KA. Decomposition odour profiling in the air and soil surrounding vertebrate carrion. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95107. [PMID: 24740412 PMCID: PMC3989314 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 03/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemical profiling of decomposition odour is conducted in the environmental sciences to detect malodourous target sources in air, water or soil. More recently decomposition odour profiling has been employed in the forensic sciences to generate a profile of the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by decomposed remains. The chemical profile of decomposition odour is still being debated with variations in the VOC profile attributed to the sample collection technique, method of chemical analysis, and environment in which decomposition occurred. To date, little consideration has been given to the partitioning of odour between different matrices and the impact this has on developing an accurate VOC profile. The purpose of this research was to investigate the decomposition odour profile surrounding vertebrate carrion to determine how VOCs partition between soil and air. Four pig carcasses (Sus scrofa domesticus L.) were placed on a soil surface to decompose naturally and their odour profile monitored over a period of two months. Corresponding control sites were also monitored to determine the VOC profile of the surrounding environment. Samples were collected from the soil below and the air (headspace) above the decomposed remains using sorbent tubes and analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. A total of 249 compounds were identified but only 58 compounds were common to both air and soil samples. This study has demonstrated that soil and air samples produce distinct subsets of VOCs that contribute to the overall decomposition odour. Sample collection from only one matrix will reduce the likelihood of detecting the complete spectrum of VOCs, which further confounds the issue of determining a complete and accurate decomposition odour profile. Confirmation of this profile will enhance the performance of cadaver-detection dogs that are tasked with detecting decomposition odour in both soil and air to locate victim remains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Katelynn A. Perrault
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Rosier E, Cuypers E, Dekens M, Verplaetse R, Develter W, Van de Voorde W, Maes D, Tytgat J. Development and validation of a new TD-GC/MS method and its applicability in the search for human and animal decomposition products. Anal Bioanal Chem 2014; 406:3611-9. [PMID: 24633514 PMCID: PMC4026628 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-014-7741-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Revised: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Differentiation between human and animal remains by means of analysis of volatile compounds released during decomposition is impossible since no volatile marker(s) specific for human decomposition has been established today. Hence, the identification of such a marker for human decomposition would represent great progression for the discovery of buried cadavers by analytical techniques. Cadaver dogs can be trained more efficiently, the understanding of forensic entomology can be enhanced, and the development of a portable detection device may be within reach. This study describes the development and validation of a new analytical method that can be applied in the search of such (a) specific marker(s). Sampling of the volatile compounds released by decomposing animal and human remains was performed both in a laboratory environment and outdoors by adsorption on sorbent tubes. Different coatings and several sampling parameters were investigated. Next, the volatile compounds were analyzed and identified by a thermal desorber combined with gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (TD-GC/MS). Different GC columns were tested. Finally, the analytical method was validated using a standard mixture of nine representative compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Rosier
- Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Campus Gasthuisberg, O&N2, Herestraat 49, PO Box 922, 3000, Leuven, Belgium
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