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Caballero-Moreno L, Luna A, Legaz I. Lipidomes in Cadaveric Decomposition and Determination of the Postmortem Interval: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:984. [PMID: 38256058 PMCID: PMC10816357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Lipids are a large group of natural compounds, together with proteins and carbohydrates, and are essential for various processes in the body. After death, the organism's tissues undergo a series of reactions that generate changes in some molecules, including lipids. This means that determining the lipid change profile can be beneficial in estimating the postmortem interval (PMI). These changes can also help determine burial sites and advance the localization of graves. The aim was to explore and analyze the decomposition process of corpses, focusing on the transformation of lipids, especially triglycerides (TGs) and fatty acids (FAs), and the possible application of these compounds as markers to estimate PMI and detect burial sites. A systematic review of 24 scientific articles from the last 23 years (2000-2023) was conducted. The results show that membrane glycerophospholipids (such as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylglycerol, among others) are the most studied, and the most promising results are obtained, with decreasing patterns as PMI varies. Fatty acids (FAs) are also identified as potential biomarkers owing to the variations in their postmortem concentration. An increase in saturated fatty acids (SFAs), such as stearic acid and palmitic acid, and a decrease in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs), such as oleic acid and linoleic acid, were observed. The importance of intrinsic and extrinsic factors in decomposition is also observed. Finally, as for the burial sites, the presence of fatty acids and some sterols in burial areas of animal and human remains can be verified. In conclusion, glycerophospholipids and fatty acids are good markers for estimating PMI. It has been observed that there are still no equations for estimating the PMI that can be applied to forensic practice, as intrinsic and extrinsic factors are seen to play a vital role in the decomposition process. As for determining burial sites, the importance of soil and textile samples has been demonstrated, showing a direct relationship between saturated fatty acids, hydroxy fatty acids, and some sterols with decomposing remains.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isabel Legaz
- Department of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB), Regional Campus of International Excellence “Campus Mare Nostrum”, Faculty of Medicine, University of Murcia (UMU), El Palmar, 30120 Murcia, Spain; (L.C.-M.); (A.L.)
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Sousa Queirós S, von der Lühe B, Silva-Bessa A, Machado Brito-da-Costa A, Morais Caldas I, Dawson L, Madureira-Carvalho Á. Lipidic compounds found in soils surrounding human decomposing bodies and its use in forensic investigations – a narrative review. Sci Justice 2023; 63:303-312. [PMID: 37169455 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Following decomposition of a human body, a variety of decomposition products, such as lipids, are released into the surrounding environment, e.g. soils. The long-lasting preservation in soils and their high diagnostic potential have been neglected in forensic research. Furthermore, little is known about the preservation, chemical transformation, or degradation of those human derived lipids in soils. To date, several studies identified various lipids such as long-chain free fatty acids and steroids in soils that contained decomposition fluids. Those lipids are preserved in soils over time and could serve as markers of human decomposition in forensic investigations, e.g. for estimating the post-mortem interval or identifying the burial location of a human body. Therefore, this review focuses on the current literature regarding fatty acid and steroid that have been detected in soils and associated with human body decomposition. After a short introduction about human decomposition processes, this review summarises fatty acid and steroid analysis applied in current case studies and studies related to taphonomic research. This review provides an overview of the available studies that have used fatty acids and steroids as identifiers of human decomposition fluid in soils in a forensic context and discusses the potential for developing this innovative field of research with direct application in a forensic context.
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Ashbridge SI, Randolph-Quinney PS, Janaway RC, Forbes SL, Ivshina O. Environmental conditions and bodily decomposition: Implications for long term management of war fatalities and the identification of the dead during the ongoing Ukrainian conflict. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 5:100284. [PMID: 36132432 PMCID: PMC9483745 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Hilal MG, Yu Q, Zhou R, Wang Y, Feng T, Li X, Li H. Exploring microbial communities, assessment methodologies and applications of animal's carcass decomposition: a review. FEMS Microbiol Ecol 2021; 97:6311132. [PMID: 34185048 DOI: 10.1093/femsec/fiab098] [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: 03/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Animals are an essential part of the ecosystem, and their carcasses are the nutrient patches or hotspots where nutrients accumulate for a long time. After death, the physical and chemical properties undergo alterations inside the carcass. The animal carcass is decomposed by many decomposers such as bacteria, fungi, microeukaryotes and insects. The role of microbial symbionts in living organisms is well explored and studied, but there is a scarcity of knowledge and research related to their role in decomposing animal carcasses. Microbes play an important role in carcass decomposition. The origins of microbial communities associated with a carcass, including the internal and external microbiome, are discussed in this review. The succession and methods used for the detection and exploration of decomposition-associated microbial communities have been briefly described. Also, the applications of carcass-associated microbial taxa have been outlined. This review is intended to understand the dynamics of microbial communities associated with the carcass and pave the way to estimate postmortem interval and its role in recycling nutrients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mian Gul Hilal
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Tianshui South Road #222, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China
| | - Qiaoling Yu
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yijie Wang
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Tianshu Feng
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Xiangkai Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Cell Activities and Stress Adaptations, School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Tianshui South Road #222, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, PR China
| | - Huan Li
- Institute of Occupational and Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.,Center for Grassland Microbiome, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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Ueland M, Harris S, Forbes SL. Detecting volatile organic compounds to locate human remains in a simulated collapsed building. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 323:110781. [PMID: 33878551 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The occurrence of mass disasters has increased worldwide due to changing environments from global warming and a heightened threat of terrorism acts. When these disasters strike, it is imperative to rapidly locate and recover human victims, both the living and deceased. While search and rescue dogs are used to locate the living, cadaver detection dogs are typically tasked with locating the dead. This can prove challenging because commingling of victims is likely to occur during disasters in populated areas which will impact the decomposition process and the resulting odour produced. To date, there has been no research to investigate the process of human decomposition in a mass disaster scenario or to understand which compounds are detectable by cadaver detection dogs. Hence, the current study investigated the human decomposition process and subsequent volatile organic compound (VOC) production in two simulated building collapse scenarios with six human donors placed in each scenario. The human remains were only recovered after a period of one month, during which time VOC samples were collected and analysed using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A considerable degree of differential decomposition was observed upon recovery of the human remains, which was carried out as a part of a police disaster victim recovery training exercise. The location of the bodies in the disaster area was found to impact the decomposition process. The VOC profile was found to correlate with the decomposition process. Fifteen days following the simulated disaster, the VOC profile changed showing that a detectable change in the decomposition process had occurred. Overall, the changing VOC profile can inform the training of cadaver detection dogs for these unique scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maiken Ueland
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Technology Sydney, P.O. Box 123, Broadway, NSW 2007, Australia.
| | - Scott Harris
- CBR/DVI Unit, Crime Scene Group, Forensic Services Department, Victoria Police, Forensic Services Centre, 31 Forensic Drive, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia
| | - Shari L Forbes
- Département de chimie, biochimie et physique, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 boul. des Forges, Trois-Rivières, G8Z 4M3 Québec, Canada
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A practical review of adipocere: Key findings, case studies and operational considerations from crime scene to autopsy. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 78:102109. [PMID: 33596512 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
After death, the body begins decomposition, a process that starts with the breakdown of organic matter and typically leads to the complete degradation of a body. Such a process is highly affected by (micro and macro) environmental factors of intrinsic and extrinsic nature. Adipocere is a substance formed from the decomposition of adipose tissue and represents a disruption to the typical decomposition process. Such disruption causes decomposition to slow or arrest completely, placing a body into a state of preservation, and determines complications in the estimation of the time since death (Post-Mortem Interval, PMI). While several studies have been performed on the nature, the formation and the degradation of adipocere, there is still no reliable model to assess the PMI of a body exhibiting it. Case studies are an important source to aid pathologists and investigators during a case. This review presents a summary and an update on the knowledge surrounding the chemistry and the factors affecting adipocere formation and degradation, the timing and the distribution of adipocere throughout a body, and the techniques used to investigate it. Furthermore, a table of the most important case studies involving adipocere since 1950, several images and descriptions of recent cases and operational considerations for the best practice at the crime scene and autopsy are presented to be used as a reference to facilitate forensic professionals in adipocere cases.
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Fabresse N, Larabi IA, Etting I, Mayer C, Charlier P, Lorin de la Grandmaison G, Alvarez JC. Identification of toxics in adipocere: Two case reports. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2019.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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8
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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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Dubois LM, Stefanuto PH, Heudt L, Focant JF, Perrault KA. Characterizing decomposition odor from soil and adipocere samples at a death scene using HS-SPME-GC×GC-HRTOFMS. Forensic Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forc.2018.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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10
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Luong S, Forbes SL, Wallman JF, Roberts RG. Monitoring the extent of vertical and lateral movement of human decomposition products through sediment using cholesterol as a biomarker. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 285:93-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.01.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Sterzik V, Jung T, Jellinghaus K, Bohnert M. Estimating the postmortem interval of human skeletal remains by analyzing their optical behavior. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1557-1566. [PMID: 27262481 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1395-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to figure out a new practically applicable method to distinguish between historical and recent human skeletal remains. Therefore, the optical behavior of bone cross sections was investigated using the combination of two methods: a modification of an already established test (UV-induced fluorescence) and a new method (490 nm-induced fluorescence). We evaluated the areal extent of fluorescence of 30 bone cross sections with known postmortem interval (PMI) using ultraviolet light and 490 nm light. For analysis, the areal extend of fluorescent surface was determined using photos of the samples and an image editing software. The results prove that there is a correlation between PMI and the areal extent of fluorescent surface in both tests. Furthermore, the combination of both methods is a good indicator to distinguish within the forensic relevant post mortem interval between PMI < 30 years and PMI > 30 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Sterzik
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Kantonsspital St. Gallen, Rorschacher Strasse 95, 9007, St. Gallen, Switzerland. .,Institute of Forensic Medicine, Julius-Maximilians-University, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Würzburg, Germany.
| | - T Jung
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Julius-Maximilians-University, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - K Jellinghaus
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Julius-Maximilians-University, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
| | - M Bohnert
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Julius-Maximilians-University, Versbacher Str. 3, 97078, Würzburg, Germany
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The formation of adipocere in model aquatic environments. Int J Legal Med 2015; 130:281-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-015-1277-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Accepted: 10/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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13
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Bolton SN, Whitehead MP, Dudhia J, Baldwin TC, Sutton R. Investigating the Postmortem Molecular Biology of Cartilage and its Potential Forensic Applications. J Forensic Sci 2015; 60:1061-7. [PMID: 25823955 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Revised: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the postmortem molecular changes that articular cartilage undergoes following burial. Fresh pig trotters were interred in 30-cm-deep graves at two distinct locations exhibiting dissimilar soil environments for up to 42 days. Extracts of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) and metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint cartilage from trotters disinterred weekly over 6 weeks were analyzed by Western blot against the monoclonal antibody 2-B-6 to assess aggrecan degradation. In both soil conditions, aggrecan degradation by-products of decreasing molecular size and complexity were observed up to 21 days postmortem. Degradation products were undetected after this time and coincided with MCP/MTP joint exposure to the soil environment. These results show that cartilage proteoglycans undergo an ordered molecular breakdown, the analysis of which may have forensic applications. This model may prove useful for use as a human model and for forensic investigations concerning crimes against animals and the mortality of endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawna N Bolton
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, U.K
| | - Michael P Whitehead
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, U.K
| | - Jayesh Dudhia
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA, U.K
| | - Timothy C Baldwin
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, U.K
| | - Raul Sutton
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Wolverhampton, Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, U.K
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The effect of soil texture on the degradation of textiles associated with buried bodies. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 231:331-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2012] [Revised: 12/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Ueland M, Breton HA, Forbes SL. Bacterial populations associated with early-stage adipocere formation in lacustrine waters. Int J Legal Med 2013; 128:379-87. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-013-0907-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2013] [Accepted: 08/13/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Stokes KL, Forbes SL, Tibbett M. Human Versus Animal: Contrasting Decomposition Dynamics of Mammalian Analogues in Experimental Taphonomy. J Forensic Sci 2013; 58:583-91. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2011] [Revised: 04/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Shari L. Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science; University of Technology; Sydney
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Ferreira MT, Cunha E. Can we infer post mortem interval on the basis of decomposition rate? A case from a Portuguese cemetery. Forensic Sci Int 2013; 226:298.e1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2013.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Revised: 07/27/2012] [Accepted: 01/07/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Moses RJ. Experimental Adipocere Formation: Implications for Adipocere Formation on Buried Bone*,†. J Forensic Sci 2011; 57:589-95. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.02032.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Widya M, Moffatt C, Simmons T. The Formation of Early Stage Adipocere in Submerged Remains: A Preliminary Experimental Study*. J Forensic Sci 2011; 57:328-33. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.01980.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Notter SJ, Stuart BH. The Effect of Body Coverings on the Formation of Adipocere in an Aqueous Environment. J Forensic Sci 2011; 57:120-5. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2011.01943.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Paczkowski S, Schütz S. Post-mortem volatiles of vertebrate tissue. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2011; 91:917-35. [PMID: 21720824 PMCID: PMC3145088 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-011-3417-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Revised: 05/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/24/2011] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Volatile emission during vertebrate decay is a complex process that is understood incompletely. It depends on many factors. The main factor is the metabolism of the microbial species present inside and on the vertebrate. In this review, we combine the results from studies on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) detected during this decay process and those on the biochemical formation of VOCs in order to improve our understanding of the decay process. Micro-organisms are the main producers of VOCs, which are by- or end-products of microbial metabolism. Many microbes are already present inside and on a vertebrate, and these can initiate microbial decay. In addition, micro-organisms from the environment colonize the cadaver. The composition of microbial communities is complex, and communities of different species interact with each other in succession. In comparison to the complexity of the decay process, the resulting volatile pattern does show some consistency. Therefore, the possibility of an existence of a time-dependent core volatile pattern, which could be used for applications in areas such as forensics or food science, is discussed. Possible microbial interactions that might alter the process of decay are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Paczkowski
- Department of Forest Zoology and Forest Conservation, Büsgeninstitut, Georg August University, Büsgenweg 3, 37077 Göttingen, Germany.
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Adipocere: What is known after over two centuries of research. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 208:167-72. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2010.11.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2010] [Accepted: 11/25/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Cassar J, Stuart B, Dent B, Notter S, Forbes S, O'Brien C, Dadour I. A study of adipocere in soil collected from a field leaching study. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/00450611003685996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Schotsmans EM, Van de Voorde W, De Winne J, Wilson AS. The impact of shallow burial on differential decomposition to the body: A temperate case study. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 206:e43-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2010.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2009] [Revised: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 07/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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25
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Swann L, Forbes S, Lewis S. Analytical separations of mammalian decomposition products for forensic science: A review. Anal Chim Acta 2010; 682:9-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2010.09.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2010] [Revised: 09/29/2010] [Accepted: 09/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Liu C, Park HM, Monsalve MV, Chen DDY. Free Fatty Acids Composition in Adipocere of the Kwäday Dän Ts’ìnchí Ancient Remains Found in a Glacier*. J Forensic Sci 2010; 55:1039-43. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2010.01373.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Swann L, Chidlow GE, Forbes S, Lewis SW. Preliminary Studies into the Characterization of Chemical Markers of Decomposition for Geoforensics. J Forensic Sci 2010; 55:308-14. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2009.01263.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Durães N, Cortez D, Algarra M, Sánchez FG, Rodríguez-Borges JE, Bobos I, Esteves da Silva JC. Comparison of adipocere formation in four soil types of the Porto (Portugal) district. Forensic Sci Int 2010; 195:168.e1-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2009.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2009] [Revised: 09/22/2009] [Accepted: 11/15/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Algarra M, Rodríguez-Borges JE, Esteves da Silva JCG. LC-MS identification of derivatized free fatty acids from adipocere in soil samples. J Sep Sci 2009; 33:143-54. [DOI: 10.1002/jssc.200900614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Fründ HC, Schoenen D. Quantification of adipocere degradation with and without access to oxygen and to the living soil. Forensic Sci Int 2009; 188:18-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2009.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2008] [Revised: 03/02/2009] [Accepted: 03/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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31
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32
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Notter SJ, Stuart BH, Rowe R, Langlois N. The Initial Changes of Fat Deposits During the Decomposition of Human and Pig Remains. J Forensic Sci 2009; 54:195-201. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2008.00911.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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33
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Zimmermann CM, Laskay UA, Jackson GP. Analysis of suspected trace human remains from an indoor concrete surface. J Forensic Sci 2008; 53:1437-42. [PMID: 18717751 DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2008.00862.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This paper describes the sequence of analyses used to determine the nature of a stain located on the floor of room in the former Athens Mental Health and Retardation Hospital in Athens, OH. The location of the stain was reported to be the position in which a decomposing body was discovered on January 11, 1979. The current stain is found to contain strong evidence for both natural decomposition products and deliberate adulteration. Microscopic analyses, solubility tests, FTIR, ICP-OES, pyrolysis-MS, and derivatization GC-MS were consistent in determining the removable parts of the stain to be composed mostly of calcium and sodium salts of free fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, consistent with previous descriptions of adipocere. The free fatty acids could have been formed via known bacterial degradation pathways or via saponification through the basic environment caused through contact with the concrete. To our knowledge, adipocere formation on an exposed indoor environment has not been described before. The stain and concrete also show signs of being chemically modified with an acidic reagent, such as Blu-Lite--a phosphoric acid-based cleaner that was a commonly used cleaner in the building from the time of discovery to the present day. The chemical etching appears to have been restricted to an area resembling the shape of a human body, which is consistent with deliberate adulteration of the appearance of the stain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn M Zimmermann
- Center for Intelligent Chemical Instrumentation, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701-2979, USA
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Notter SJ, Stuart BH, Dent BB, Keegan J. Solid-phase extraction in combination with GC/MS for the quantification of free fatty acids in adipocere. EUR J LIPID SCI TECH 2008. [DOI: 10.1002/ejlt.200700159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Kieser J, Bernal V, Gonzalez P, Birch W, Turmaine M, Ichim I. Analysis of experimental cranial skin wounding from screwdriver trauma. Int J Legal Med 2007; 122:179-87. [PMID: 17701196 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-007-0187-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2007] [Accepted: 07/17/2007] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
As part of a more extensive investigation of skin wounding mechanisms, we studied wounds created by five common screwdrivers (straight, star, square or Robertson, Posidriv and Phillips) on the shaven foreheads of 12 freshly slaughtered pigs. We fixed the different screwdriver heads to a 5-kg metal cylinder which was directed vertically onto each pig head by a droptube of 700 mm length. We examined skin lesions by photography and also by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Our evaluation of differences in wound shape and size was based on geometric morphometric methods. Our results show that there are obvious morphological differences between the straight head and the other types. The straight-headed screwdriver penetrates the skin by a mode II crack which results in a compressed skin plug with bundles of collagen fibres forming skin tabs within the actual wound. The sharper-tipped screwdrivers wedge open the skin (mode I), with a clearly defined edge with no skin plugs. Geometric morphometric analysis indicates that shapes of skin wounds created by the five screwdriver types could be classified into three different groups. The straight head results in the most differentiated wound profile, with the Robertson or square and some specimens of star, and also the Posidriv and Phillips giving similar wound outlines. SEM evaluation of wounds created by a new and worn straight-head screwdrivers shows that the outline of the worn screwdriver head is reflected in the shape of the wound it created.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Kieser
- Department of Oral Sciences, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand.
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Wilson AS, Janaway RC, Holland AD, Dodson HI, Baran E, Pollard AM, Tobin DJ. Modelling the buried human body environment in upland climes using three contrasting field sites. Forensic Sci Int 2007; 169:6-18. [PMID: 16973322 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2006.07.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2005] [Revised: 06/09/2006] [Accepted: 07/21/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Despite an increasing literature on the decomposition of human remains, whether buried or exposed, it is important to recognise the role of specific microenvironments which can either trigger or delay the rate of decomposition. Recent casework in Northern England involving buried and partially buried human remains has demonstrated a need for a more detailed understanding of the effect of contrasting site conditions on cadaver decomposition and on the microenvironment created within the grave itself. Pigs (Sus scrofa) were used as body analogues in three inter-related taphonomy experiments to examine differential decomposition of buried human remains. They were buried at three contrasting field sites (pasture, moorland, and deciduous woodland) within a 15 km radius of the University of Bradford, West Yorkshire, UK. Changes to the buried body and the effect of these changes on hair and associated death-scene textile materials were monitored as was the microenvironment of the grave. At recovery, 6, 12 and 24 months post-burial, the extent of soft tissue decomposition was recorded and samples of fat and soil were collected for gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) analysis. The results of these studies demonstrated that (1) soil conditions at these three burial sites has a marked effect on the condition of the buried body but even within a single site variation can occur; (2) the process of soft tissue decomposition modifies the localised burial microenvironment in terms of microbiological load, pH, moisture and changes in redox status. These observations have widespread application for the investigation of clandestine burial and time since deposition, and in understanding changes within the burial microenvironment that may impact on biomaterials such as hair and other associated death scene materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Wilson
- Department of Archaeological Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire BD7 1DP, UK.
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Rawlins BG, Kemp SJ, Hodgkinson EH, Riding JB, Vane CH, Poulton C, Freeborough K. Potential and Pitfalls in Establishing the Provenance of Earth-Related Samples in Forensic Investigations. J Forensic Sci 2006; 51:832-45. [PMID: 16882228 DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2006.00152.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Earth scientists are often asked to establish or constrain the likely provenance of very small quantities of earth-related material as part of a forensic investigation. We tested the independent and collective interpretations of four experts with differing analytical skills in the prediction of sample provenance for three samples from different environmental settings. The methods used were X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, the assessment of pollen assemblages, and structural characterization of organic matter at the molecular level. Independent interpretations were less accurate than those where multiple techniques were combined. Collective interpretation was very effective in the assessment of provenance for two of the three sites where the mineralogy and plant communities were distinctive. At the other site, although the mineralogical analysis correctly identified the Triassic mudstone soil parent material, Carboniferous spores from domestic coal were initially interpreted as deriving directly from bedrock. Such an interpretation could be a common pitfall owing to anthropogenic redistribution of material such as coal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barry G Rawlins
- British Geological Survey, Keyworth, Nottingham NG12 5GG, UK.
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38
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Vane CH, Trick JK. Evidence of adipocere in a burial pit from the foot and mouth epidemic of 1967 using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Forensic Sci Int 2005; 154:19-23. [PMID: 16182945 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2004] [Accepted: 08/31/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Gas-chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to characterise the fatty acids from soils and associated tissues excavated from a 1967 Foot and Mouth burial pit. Subcutaneous fats were mainly comprised of 55-75% palmitic acid, 17-22% stearic acid and 3-16% oleic acid as well as 5-7% myristic acid. The distribution of fatty acids confirmed that the tissues were decayed to adipocere. The loss of oleic acid to <3% in two of the decayed fats suggested advanced stages of adipocere. However, adipocere formation was limited in a third tissue sample recovered from greater depth. Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry of the pore waters revealed a decrease in Ca concentration and concurrent increase in Na concentrations this suggested that insoluble calcium salt had formed through displacement of sodium. The use of fatty acid profiles from soils and soil interstitial pore waters provide complementary evidence of adipocere formation in foot and mouth burial pits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Vane
- British Geological Survey, Kingsley Dunham Centre, Keyworth, Nottingham NG125GG, UK.
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Forbes SL, Stuart BH, Dent BB. The effect of the burial environment on adipocere formation. Forensic Sci Int 2005; 154:24-34. [PMID: 16182946 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.09.107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2003] [Accepted: 09/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Adipocere is a decomposition product comprising predominantly of saturated fatty acids which results from the hydrolysis and hydrogenation of neutral fats in the body. Adipocere formation may occur in various decomposition environments but is chiefly dependent on the surrounding conditions. In a soil burial environment these conditions may include such factors as soil pH, temperature, moisture and the oxygen content within the grave site. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of these particular burial factors on the rate and extent of adipocere formation. Controlled laboratory experiments were conducted in an attempt to form adipocere from pig adipose tissue in model burial environments. Infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were employed to determine the lipid profile and fatty acid composition of the adipocere product which formed in the burial environments. The results suggest that adipocere can form under a variety of burial conditions. Several burial factors were identified as enhancing adipocere formation whilst others clearly inhibited its formation. This study acts as a preliminary investigation into the effect of the burial environment on the resultant preservation of decomposing tissue via adipocere formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari L Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia.
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Forbes SL, Dent BB, Stuart BH. The effect of soil type on adipocere formation. Forensic Sci Int 2005; 154:35-43. [PMID: 16182947 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.09.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2003] [Accepted: 09/15/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Adipocere refers to a postmortem product which forms from body fat in the later stages of decomposition. Factors present in the surrounding decomposition environment will influence adipocere formation and may accelerate or retard the process of conversion. One such factor important in burial environments is the type of grave soil in which the burial has taken place. This study was conducted to investigate the influence of various soil types on the formation of adipocere in grave soils. X-ray diffraction and particle size analysis were used to characterise the soils which were essentially chosen on the basis of grain size. Infrared spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry were used to investigate the lipid profile and chemical composition of adipocere developed from decomposing tissue. The results suggest that adipocere is able to form in various soil types and that particular soil environments may accelerate its formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari L Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia.
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Forbes SL, Stuart BH, Dent BB. The effect of the method of burial on adipocere formation. Forensic Sci Int 2005; 154:44-52. [PMID: 16182948 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2004.09.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2004] [Accepted: 09/15/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
A controlled laboratory experiment was conducted in order to investigate the effect of the method of burial (i.e. the presence of coffin and clothing) on the formation of adipocere. This study follows previous studies by the authors who have investigated the effect of physical conditions on the formation of adipocere present in a controlled burial environment. The study utilises infrared spectroscopy to provide a preliminary lipid profile of the remains following a 12 month decomposition period. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry was employed as a technique for determining the salts of fatty acids present in adipocere. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was used as the confirmatory test for the identification and determination of the chemical composition of adipocere which formed in the controlled burial environments. The results suggest that coffins will retard the rate at which adipocere forms but that clothing enhances its formation. The results concur with previous observations on adipocere formation in burial environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shari L Forbes
- Centre for Forensic Science, University of Western Australia, Crawley 6009, Australia.
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Varmuza K, Makristathis A, Schwarzmeier J, Seidler H, Mader RM. Exploration of anthropological specimens by GC-MS and chemometrics. MASS SPECTROMETRY REVIEWS 2005; 24:427-452. [PMID: 15389850 DOI: 10.1002/mas.20020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Anthropological specimens combine a variety of unfavorable characteristics, rendering their evaluation an analytical challenge. Their remarkable status is primarily based on two characteristics: (i) these very rare samples of human origin are testimonies of human history and are, therefore, available only in minute amounts for analytical purposes, and (ii) the analysis of these samples is extremely limited by the decomposition of molecules, which are easily detected in living organisms, such as nucleic acids and proteins, but are subject to rapid post-mortem decay. In this article, we review the methods and results of archaeometry, emphasizing the role of MS combined with chemometrics. Focusing on experimental results for fatty acid profiles, specimens from mummies from different civilizations were compared. Considering in particular the Tyrolean Iceman, the application of chemometric methods to GC-MS data recovers essential information about the preservation and the storage conditions of mummies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kurt Varmuza
- Institute of Chemical Engineering, Laboratory for Chemometrics, Vienna University of Technology, Vienna, Austria.
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