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Merdietio Boedi R, Angelakopoulos N, Nuzzolese E, Pandey H, Mânica S, Franco A. Positive identification through comparative dental analysis in mass disaster: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2024:10.1007/s12024-024-00876-7. [PMID: 39158821 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-024-00876-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE The study aimed to assess the probability of achieving positive identification through comparative dental analysis (CDA) and to determine the factors that influence its success rate in mass disaster scenarios. METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted across six databases for observational studies that reported both the total number of mass disaster victims and the count of victims identified through CDA alone. A random-effect meta-analysis, using the proportion of victims identified with CDA as the effect size, was conducted alongside subgroup analyses based on the type of disaster (natural or non-natural), the disaster classification (open or closed), and the geographical region (i.e., Europe, Asia). RESULTS The search yielded 3133 entries, out of which 32 studies were deemed eligible. Most of the studies (96.8%) presented a low risk of bias. The meta-analysis revealed a mean weighted-proportion probability of 0.32, indicating that forensic odontology could identify about one-third of the victims in a mass disaster. The probability of comparative dental identification was three times higher in closed mass disasters compared to open disasters (p < 0.05) and was higher in mass disasters occurring in North America and Europe compared to other regions (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION The current result suggested that CDA can identify approximately 32% of a victim in a hypothetical scenario, emphasizing the integral role of teeth and forensic odontology in victim identification framework.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rizky Merdietio Boedi
- Department of Dentistry, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang, Indonesia.
| | - Nikolaos Angelakopoulos
- Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Emilio Nuzzolese
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Public Health Sciences and Pediatrics, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Hemlata Pandey
- Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Scheila Mânica
- Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Ademir Franco
- Division of Forensic Dentistry, Faculdade São Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, Brazil
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Thornton R, Mendelow MG, Hutchinson EF. Bone mineral density and geometric morphometrics: Indicators of growth in the immature pars basilaris. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 361:112111. [PMID: 38908071 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112111] [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: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/24/2024]
Abstract
The pars basilaris forms a central component of the immature basicranium and owing to its resilience to post-mortem and taphonomic changes, holds significance across evolutionary, clinical, and forensic contexts. While size and shape parameters of the pars basilaris have been investigated, little is known about the influence of the underlying bone mineral density on the morphometry of this bone during growth. This study aimed to investigate the development and growth of the pars basilaris with specific reference to changes in bone density patterning and development of osteological features, during the prenatal and early postnatal periods of life. A total of 109 pars basilari were sourced from the Johannesburg Forensic Paediatric Collection, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa. The study sample was subdivided into early prenatal (<30 gestational weeks), prenatal (30-40 gestational weeks) and postnatal (birth to 7.5 months) groups and micro-CT scanned to assess bone mineral density patterns across seven regions of interest. Size and shape changes were analysed using 11 digitized landmarks and geometric morphometrics. When comparing across age groups, the assessed dimensions increased with growth manifesting as a deepening at the anterior border of the foramen magnum, development of the lateral angles and widening of the bone at the lateral projections and spheno-occipital synchondrosis. However, no significant changes in the distribution of bone mineral density were observed. An appreciation of morphological changes and bone quality at specific growth sites in the pars basilaris is essential when analyzing remains of unknown provenance for the purposes of identification in disaster victim settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roxanne Thornton
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Mira G Mendelow
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Erin F Hutchinson
- School of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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3
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Robles M, Nakhaeizadeh S, Rando C, Morgan RM. Human identification: an investigation of 3D models of paranasal sinuses to establish a biological profile on a modern UK population. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:1411-1424. [PMID: 38351205 PMCID: PMC11164725 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03179-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Medical imaging is a valuable source for facilitating empirical research and provides an accessible gateway for developing novel forensic anthropological methods for analysis including 3D modelling. This is especially critical for the United Kingdom (UK), where methods developed from modern UK populations do not currently exist. This study introduces a new approach to assist in human identification using 3D models of the paranasal sinuses. The models were produced from a database of 500 modern CT scans provided by University College London Hospital. Linear measurements and elliptic Fourier coefficients taken from 1500 three-dimensional models across six ethnic groups assessed by one-way ANOVA and discriminant function analysis showed a range of classification rates with certain rates reaching 75-85.7% (p < 0.05) in correctly classifying age and sex according to size and shape. The findings offer insights into the potential for employing paranasal sinuses as an attribute for establishing the identification of unknown human remains in future crime reconstructions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Robles
- UCL Department of Security and Crime Science, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK.
- UCL Centre for the Forensic Sciences, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK.
- School of Applied Sciences, College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK.
| | - Sherry Nakhaeizadeh
- UCL Department of Security and Crime Science, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK
- UCL Centre for the Forensic Sciences, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK
| | - Carolyn Rando
- UCL Institute of Archaeology, 31-34 Gordon Square, London, WC1H 0PY, UK
| | - Ruth M Morgan
- UCL Department of Security and Crime Science, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK
- UCL Centre for the Forensic Sciences, 35 Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9EZ, UK
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Machado CR, Curi JP, da Costa Moraes CA, Santos LV, Melani RFH, Chilvarquer I, Beaini TL. Exploratory analysis of new craniometric measures for the investigation of biological sex using open-access statistical and machine-learning tools on a cone-beam computed tomography sample. Int J Legal Med 2024:10.1007/s00414-024-03259-3. [PMID: 38856752 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-024-03259-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Investigation of the biological sex of human remains is a crucial aspect of physical anthropology. However, due to varying states of skeletal preservation, multiple approaches and structures of interest need to be explored. This research aims to investigate the potential use of distances between bifrontal breadth (FMB), infraorbital foramina distance (IOD), nasal breadth (NLB), inter-canine width (ICD), and distance between mental foramina (MFD) for combined sex prediction through traditional statistical methods and through open-access machine-learning tools. Ethical approval was obtained from the ethics committee, and out of 100 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, 54 individuals were selected with all the points visible. Ten extra exams were chosen to test the predictors developed from the learning sample. Descriptive analysis of measurements, standard deviation, and standard error were obtained. T-student and Mann-Whitney tests were utilized to assess the sex differences within the variables. A logistic regression equation was developed and tested for the investigation of the biological sex as well as decision trees, random forest, and artificial neural networks machine-learning models. The results indicate a strong correlation between the measurements and the sex of individuals. When combined, the measurements were able to predict sex using a regression formula or machine learning based models which can be exported and added to software or webpages. Considering the methods, the estimations showed an accuracy rate superior to 80% for males and 82% for females. All skulls in the test sample were accurately predicted by both statistical and machine-learning models. This exploratory study successfully established a correlation between facial measurements and the sex of individuals, validating the prediction potential of machine learning, augmenting the investigative tools available to experts with a high differentiation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Janaina Paiva Curi
- Social and Preventive Dentistry Department , Centro Universitário Do Triângulo, Minas Gerais, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | - Thiago Leite Beaini
- Social and Preventive Dentistry Department , Federal University of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Uberlândia, Brazil
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Gualtieri S, Sacco MA, Galassi FM, Varotto E, Tarallo AP, Verrina MC, Tarda L, Ricci P, Aquila I. The Fascinating World of Forensic Sciences: Multidisciplinary Approaches in Human Remains and the Role of Forensic Pathology in Calabrian Experience. Cureus 2024; 16:e62209. [PMID: 39006692 PMCID: PMC11240072 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.62209] [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] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Forensic sciences play a vital role in the criminal justice system by providing insights into the identity of victims and suspects, causes of death, and other crucial pieces of evidence. In this research paper, we will explore the utility of forensic sciences, its techniques and applications, and the critical role of the forensic pathologist in analyzing human remains. For this purpose, we have analyzed a series of human remains and cadavers found in a state of decomposition, illustrating the medico-legal investigations carried out. Specifically, 50 cases from Calabrian experience are reported from 2003 to 2023 in different contexts of both judicial and archaeological interest and discovered by chance. In any case, anthropological, odontological, genetic, entomological, and forensic radiological investigations were carried out with the supervision of the forensic pathologist in all cases. The varied composition of the sample made it possible to understand the methods and the various specialists involved in such diversified cases. Furthermore, a review of the scientific literature on the topic of human remains was carried out. In particular, by delving into these topics, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of forensic anthropology and forensic sciences and their significance in the criminal justice system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Gualtieri
- Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, ITA
| | | | - Francesco Maria Galassi
- Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Lodz, POL
| | - Elena Varotto
- Archaeology, College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, AUS
| | | | | | - Lucia Tarda
- Medical and Surgical Sciences, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, ITA
| | | | - Isabella Aquila
- Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Legal Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, ITA
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Khoo LS, Lai PS, Siew SF, Ibrahim MA. Management of unidentified and unclaimed bodies: a comparison of model from four countries in the Asia Pacific Region. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2024; 20:579-594. [PMID: 37523136 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-023-00683-6] [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] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Managing mass fatality incidents or disasters involving multiple deaths are not uncommon among forensic practitioners. In fact, management of unidentified or unknown bodies is also a vital component of the day-to-day mortuary work practice. The unidentified and subsequently unclaimed bodies have always been a "silent mass disaster," a problem that needs to be tackled within the forensic community and raises the global issue of ethics, law, and human rights. Unidentified bodies' in Malaysia make up an average of 4.02% of all death cases where a total postmortem examination was performed which is comparable with other developing countries within 4-10% which can go up to 25%. Moreover, unstandardized procedures in all mortuaries in different states and districts in Malaysia have worsened the scenario even with guidelines in place. This study aims to address the issues surrounding unidentified and unclaimed bodies including body disposal from a social and legal perspective using case study methodology by comparing four different countries in the Asia Pacific Region through document analysis and interview methods. One of the major findings is evident in 3 out of the 4 models, whereby there is a considerable gap in consolidating the missing person report and information to match with the unidentified bodies received in forensic institutions in an attempt to enhance the identification process which ultimately intends as a closure for the family members. It is also timely to think out of the box beyond dental records and DNA profiling to improve the identification rate for skeletonized remains through means of anthropology biometrics comparison. With the limited literature published surrounding this domain, it is hoped that the suggestions and recommendations to standardize the management of unidentified and unclaimed bodies can benefit many forensic institutions and public mortuaries in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lay See Khoo
- National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Pahang, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
| | - Poh Soon Lai
- National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Pahang, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Sheue Feng Siew
- National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Pahang, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim
- National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Pahang, 50586, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Di Stefano B, Zupanič Pajnič I, Concato M, Bertoglio B, Calvano MG, Sorçaburu Ciglieri S, Bosetti A, Grignani P, Addoum Y, Vetrini R, Introna F, Bonin S, Previderè C, Fattorini P. Evaluation of a New DNA Extraction Method on Challenging Bone Samples Recovered from a WWII Mass Grave. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:672. [PMID: 38927608 PMCID: PMC11202841 DOI: 10.3390/genes15060672] [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: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Bones and teeth represent a common finding in ancient DNA studies and in forensic casework, even after a long burial. Genetic typing is the gold standard for the personal identification of skeletal remains, but there are two main factors involved in the successful DNA typing of such samples: (1) the set-up of an efficient DNA extraction method; (2) the identification of the most suitable skeletal element for the downstream genetic analyses. In this paper, a protocol based on the processing of 0.5 g of bone powder decalcified using Na2EDTA proved to be suitable for a semi-automated DNA extraction workflow using the Maxwell® FSC DNA IQ™ Casework Kit (Promega, Madison, WI, USA). The performance of this method in terms of DNA recovery and quality was compared with a full demineralisation extraction protocol based on Qiagen technology and kits. No statistically significant differences were scored according to the DNA recovery and DNA degradation index (p-values ≥ 0.176; r ≥ 0.907). This new DNA extraction protocol was applied to 88 bone samples (41 femurs, 19 petrous bones, 12 metacarpals and 16 molars) allegedly belonging to 27 World War II Italian soldiers found in a mass grave on the isle of Cres (Croatia). The results of the qPCR performed by the Quantifiler Human DNA Quantification kit showed values above the lowest Limit of Quantification (lLOQ; 23 pg/µL) for all petrous bones, whereas other bone types showed, in most cases, lower amounts of DNA. Replicate STR-CE analyses showed successful typing (that is, >12 markers) in all tests on the petrous bones, followed by the metacarpals (83.3%), femurs (52.2%) and teeth (20.0%). Full profiles (22/22 autosomal markers) were achieved mainly in the petrous bones (84.2%), followed by the metacarpals (41.7%). Stochastic amplification artefacts such as drop-outs or drop-ins occurred with a frequency of 1.9% in the petrous bones, whereas they were higher when the DNA recovered from other bone elements was amplified (up to 13.9% in the femurs). Overall, the results of this study confirm that petrous bone outperforms other bone elements in terms of the quantity and quality of the recovered DNA; for this reason, if available, it should always be preferred for genetic testing. In addition, our results highlight the need for accurate planning of the DVI operation, which should be carried out by a multi-disciplinary team, and the tricky issue of identifying other suitable skeletal elements for genetic testing. Overall, the results presented in this paper support the need to adopt preanalytical strategies positively related to the successful genetic testing of aged skeletal remains in order to reduce costs and the time of analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Di Stefano
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | - Irena Zupanič Pajnič
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Monica Concato
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | - Barbara Bertoglio
- Section of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Maria Grazia Calvano
- Section of Legal Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), University-Hospital of Bari, Giulio Cesare Square 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.I.)
| | - Solange Sorçaburu Ciglieri
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | | | - Pierangela Grignani
- Section of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Yasmine Addoum
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | - Raffaella Vetrini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | - Francesco Introna
- Section of Legal Medicine, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine (DIM), University-Hospital of Bari, Giulio Cesare Square 11, 70124 Bari, Italy; (M.G.C.); (F.I.)
| | - Serena Bonin
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
| | - Carlo Previderè
- Section of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Department of Public Health, Experimental and Forensic Medicine, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (B.B.); (P.G.)
| | - Paolo Fattorini
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy; (B.D.S.); (M.C.); (S.S.C.); (Y.A.); (R.V.); (S.B.); (P.F.)
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Davidson CL, de Klerk J, Matejovsky Z, Fabris-Rotelli I, Uys A. Metric evaluation of the anterior nasal spine to estimate sex and population group in South African individuals. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:1117-1137. [PMID: 38010514 PMCID: PMC11003921 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03130-x] [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: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The anterior nasal spine is a pointed, midline projection of the maxilla. This bony structure dictates the overlying soft tissues providing the phenotypic features of the nose and upper lip and determines the differences in the mid-face morphology. Little data is available on the metric features of the Anterior nasal spine (ANS). This study aimed to perform metric evaluations of the ANS of white and black South African males and females to ascertain if morphological variations exist and if the differences are viable for the use in sex and population identification. MATERIALS AND METHODS The sample included 100 CBCT images for each population and sex group. Linear and angular measurements of the ANS were recorded in both the sagittal and axial planes. RESULTS Classification decision trees (pruned) were fitted to ascertain the relationship between population group, sex and the ANS measurements including and excluding age. For population group, all the ANS measurements were statistically significant for females but in males, all the ANS measurements were significant when performed individually. However, when fitted to the classification tree, Sagittal 2 did not show any statistical significance. When considering sex, only 2 of the ANS measurements (Sagittal 2 and Axial 1) were found to be significant. The results did not differ significantly when comparing the decision trees including and excluding age. CONCLUSIONS White South African individuals presented with a longer ANS that produced a more acute angle whereas black South African individuals presented with a shorter ANS and a more obtuse angle. Additionally, males presented with a longer ANS compared to females. ANS measurements were found to be more relevant for population discernment than for sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy Lana Davidson
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, PO Box 1266, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
| | - Johan de Klerk
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, PO Box 1266, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Zina Matejovsky
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, PO Box 1266, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa
| | - Inger Fabris-Rotelli
- Department of Statistics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Andre Uys
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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Siebke I, Abegg C, Fracasso T, Moghaddam N, Obertová Z. Awareness of forensic anthropology in Switzerland: a survey among forensic practitioners, police, and prosecutors. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:1067-1077. [PMID: 37964038 PMCID: PMC11003926 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03116-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Forensic anthropology (FA) as a specialized discipline has been practised in multi-lingual Switzerland for over a decade. A variety of expertise regarding osteological assessments as well as facial image comparison (FIC) is provided by different centres. Nevertheless, information is lacking about the awareness of FA and its benefits for forensic investigations among forensic stakeholders. Therefore, a survey was sent to Swiss anthropologists (AN) and related professions (police officers, prosecutors, and forensic pathologists) to assess three main aspects: (1) the experience of working (biological/forensic) anthropologists within FA; (2) how FA is perceived by other professions within the legal system; and (3) identify gaps (if any) in understanding of FA with the aim to suggest avenues for improvement if necessary. The results show that awareness of FA varies by occupation and cantonal regions. In areas where close collaborations between forensic anthropologists (FAs) and other stakeholders have been formally established, be it with focus on osteological analyses or FIC, the awareness of FA competencies was superior to areas where this was not the case. An overwhelming majority of forensic actors expressed interest in continuing education related to the role of FA. These findings indicate that facilitation of communication and collaboration leads to improvement in the awareness of the competencies of FAs and their contribution to forensic investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inga Siebke
- Zurich Forensic Science Institute, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Claudine Abegg
- Unit of Forensic Imaging and Anthropology, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Tony Fracasso
- Unit of Forensic Medicine, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Unit of Forensic Medicine, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Geneva University Hospital and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Negahnaz Moghaddam
- Unit of Forensic Imaging and Anthropology, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne-Geneva, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Chemin de la Vulliette 4, CH - 1000, 25, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Zuzana Obertová
- Zurich Forensic Science Institute, Zurich, Switzerland
- Centre for Forensic Anthropology, School of Social Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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Cappella A, Solazzo R, Mazzarelli D, Gibelli D, Dolci C, Sforza C, Cattaneo C. The potential of facial nevi in personal identification. Sci Rep 2024; 14:6206. [PMID: 38485806 PMCID: PMC10940291 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56847-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Forensic anthropologists dealing with personal identification (PI) of human remains have recently stressed the need to explore the potential of "secondary identifiers" for identifying victims who died in particular events for whom images often represent the main antemortem data available. Being the face the part most exposed in images, characteristics as pigmented skin lesions (PSLs), can be crucial if combined with other input. Since no data is available on frequencies and distribution of facial PSLs in the general population, this study aims at systematically collecting such data to verify their potential in PI and to open a debate on the aid that "secondary identifiers", regardless of their specific nature, can give to the identification of the deceased in specific forensic contexts. A retrospective analysis on three-dimensional facial models of 1039 Italian subjects (from 4 to 84 years old) was conducted to examine the incidence of PSLs discriminated according to size and position in well-defined facial areas. From the collected data we developed a probabilistic approach providing the likelihood ratio (LR) for two settings: (1) the relative frequencies of nevi in the various facial areas, providing the deriving compound probability of owning a certain facial PSLs pattern; and (2) codes describing the facial nevi pattern of each individual of our population, thus testing their uniqueness and so their potential in PI. The calculated LRs mostly proved high identifying strength, particularly when provided by the compound probability-based approach. Data on incidence and position of facial nevi, their generated codes, and the probabilistic approach here presented, all constitute a starting point for advancing secondary identifiers. Nonetheless, although this preliminary study proved facial PSLs as valuable and potentially useful for identification, their significance and validity should be interpreted with caution as we are still at the first theoretical step clearly based on ideal conditions, and thus further investigations are due on the limitations of their use in practical identifying settings. Therefore, being this systematic study only a preliminary one in its nature, it is recommended not to use this kind of approach until further studies will test its validity in several practical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Cappella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy.
- U.O. Laboratorio di Morfologia Umana Applicata, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, 20097, San Donato Milanese, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Solazzo
- LAFAS (Laboratorio di Anatomia Funzionale dell'Apparato Stomatognatico), Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Debora Mazzarelli
- LABANOF (Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense), Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Gibelli
- LAFAS (Laboratorio di Anatomia Funzionale dell'Apparato Stomatognatico), Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudia Dolci
- LAFAS (Laboratorio di Anatomia Funzionale dell'Apparato Stomatognatico), Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiarella Sforza
- LAFAS (Laboratorio di Anatomia Funzionale dell'Apparato Stomatognatico), Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Cristina Cattaneo
- LABANOF (Laboratorio di Antropologia e Odontologia Forense), Sezione di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, 20133, Milan, Italy
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11
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Eren H, Sezer B, Deniz Y. Evaluation of the differences in the localization of the lingula mandibulae according to pubertal development in children: A new anthropological and forensic approach. Arch Oral Biol 2024; 159:105892. [PMID: 38241846 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2024.105892] [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: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate changes in lingula mandibulae localization before and after puberty and sex differences. DESIGN 288 panoramic radiographs evaluated retrospectively were divided into four groups according to pubertal development: under and over 10 years old for females and under and over 11 years old for males. Four anatomic sites were used as reference points: (a) the anterior border of the ramus; (b) the posterior border of the ramus; (c) the deepest point of mandibular notch; and (d) the angulus mandibulae. The ratio of the distances from the lingula mandibulae to points (a) and (b) and the ratio of the distances from the lingula mandibulae to points (c) and (d) were determined. Two-way ANOVA was performed to assess differences between subgroups based on sex and puberty, and a Bonferroni post-hoc test was performed for multiple comparisons. RESULTS Puberty and sex has a significant interaction effect on the vertical location of the lingula mandibulae. Postpubertal lingula mandibulae is positioned proportionally more anteriorly by prepubertal localization. In addition, the lingula mandibulae is situated more posteriorly in females compared to males. A significant interaction effect of puberty and sex was observed in relation to the vertical positioning of the lingula mandibulae. CONCLUSIONS The spatial localization of the lingula mandibulae and its spatial displacement with age can be used both in estimating sex and the onset of puberty. Changes in the localization of lingula mandibulae according to pubertal development and sex can be used in forensic and anthropological contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hakan Eren
- Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkiye
| | - Berkant Sezer
- Department of Pediatric Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkiye.
| | - Yeşim Deniz
- Department of Dentomaxillofacial Radiology, School of Dentistry, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, Çanakkale, Turkiye; Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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12
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Jung JY, So MH, Jeong KS, Kim SI, Kim EJ, Park JH, Kim E, Lee HY. Epigenetic age prediction using costal cartilage for the investigation of disaster victims and missing persons. J Forensic Sci 2024. [PMID: 38275209 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.15470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
The DNA intelligence tool, DNA methylation-based age prediction, can help identify disaster victims and suspects in criminal investigations. In this study, we developed a costal cartilage-based age prediction tool that uses massive parallel sequencing (MPS) of age-associated DNA methylation markers. Costal cartilage samples were obtained from 85 deceased Koreans, aged between 26 and 89 years. An MPS library was prepared using two rounds of multiplex polymerase chain reaction of nine genes (TMEM51, MIR29B2CHG, EDARADD, FHL2, TRIM59, ELOVL2, KLF14, ASPA, and PDE4C). The DNA methylation status of 45 CpG sites was determined and used to train an age prediction model via stepwise regression analysis. Nine CpGs in MIR29B2CHG, FHL2, TRIM59, ELOVL2, KLF14, and ASPA were selected for regression model construction. A leave-one-out cross-validation analysis revealed the high performance of the age prediction model, with a mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error of 4.97 and 6.43 years, respectively. Additionally, our model showed good performance with a MAE of 6.06 years in the analysis of data of 181 costal cartilage samples collected from Europeans. Our model effectively estimates the age of deceased individuals using costal cartilage samples; therefore, it can be a valuable forensic tool for disaster victim and missing person investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ju Yeon Jung
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Forensic DNA Section, National Forensic Service Jeju Branch, Jeju, South Korea
| | - Moon Hyun So
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Kyu-Sik Jeong
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Sang-In Kim
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Eun Jin Kim
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Ji Hwan Park
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Eungsoo Kim
- Forensic DNA Division, National Forensic Service, Wonju, South Korea
| | - Hwan Young Lee
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
- Institute of Forensic and Anthropological Science, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea
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13
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Marzaleh MA, Ardakani MSZ. Disasters in pediatric dentistry: a systematic review. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:984. [PMID: 38066572 PMCID: PMC10709838 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03699-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Disasters can harm many people, especially children, in unpredictable and public ways. One of the neglected aspects of children's health in disasters is oral and dental hygiene, which can affect their physical and mental well-being. This systematic review explores how dentistry can help children in disasters, focusing on two aspects: providing oral health care and identifying disaster victims. METHODS A thorough search of databases, such as PubMed, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Embase, ProQuest, and Web of Science, was done to find English-language publications from 1930 to August 31, 2023. The screening, data collection, and quality assessment followed the PRISMA guidelines. RESULTS Out of 37,795 articles found in the databases, seven research articles were chosen. Five articles were retrospective, and two articles were prospective. The results showed that dentistry for children is very important in disasters by giving information about the oral and dental problems and identifying the victims. The results also showed some of the challenges and difficulties in giving dental care for children in disaster situations, such as changing control, referral systems, and parental fear of infection. CONCLUSION Dentistry for children can improve the health and well-being of children affected by disasters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milad Ahmadi Marzaleh
- Department of Health in Disasters and Emergencies, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Health Human Resources Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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14
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D'Antonio G, Serinelli S, Albore M, Bolino G. Medico-legal scene investigation in the case of burned bodies - a systematic review. Med Leg J 2023; 91:226-230. [PMID: 37793642 DOI: 10.1177/00258172231191214] [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] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
A judicial on-site examination is essential for the correct analysis of a forensic case, particularly when there has been a fatal fire, as heat-related changes to bodies make identification by the forensic pathologist and other specialists difficult along with estimating the post-mortem interval and determining the precise cause and manner of death. We systematically reviewed all relevant articles dating from 2003 to 2022 in the PubMed database with a view to updating recommendations on how best to proceed. Our recommendations highlight the importance of a multidisciplinary team approach involving various forensic specialists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianpiero D'Antonio
- Department of Anatomic, Histologic, Medico-Legal Sciences and of Locomotor System, Rome University Sapienza, Italy
| | - Serenella Serinelli
- Direzione Regionale Lazio - Istituto Nazionale della Previdenza Sociale, Italy
| | - Marco Albore
- Department of Anatomic, Histologic, Medico-Legal Sciences and of Locomotor System, Rome University Sapienza, Italy
| | - Giorgio Bolino
- Department of Anatomic, Histologic, Medico-Legal Sciences and of Locomotor System, Rome University Sapienza, Italy
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15
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Khaleghi M, Memarian A, Shekarchi B, Bagheri H, Maleki N, Safari N. Second and third lumbar vertebral parameters for prediction of sex, height, and age in the Iranian population. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2023; 19:364-371. [PMID: 36454380 DOI: 10.1007/s12024-022-00554-6] [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] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to assess the association between different parameters of the second and third lumbar vertebra with age, sex, and height in the Iranian population. A total of 14 parameters of the L2 and L3 vertebra were measured from three-dimensional lumbar topography. The measured parameters included vertebral length, foramen diameter, foramen width, endplate depth, endplate width, spinal process height, spinal process length, transverse process distance, the height of the vertebral body, articular process height inferior, articular process height superior, pedicle height, pedicle width, and maximum distance between articular processes. A total of 100 patients, including 46 males (46%) and 54 females (54%), were enrolled in this study. Our findings showed that most L2 and L3 parameters could differentiate males from females, with the area under the curve between 0.620 and 0.888. The majority of L2 and L3 parameters were positively associated with height in both males and females. Regarding age, there was a significant positive association between the spinal process length of L2 and vertebral length, spinal process height, and spinal process length of L3 with age in males. Also, several parameters of L2 and L3 were associated with age in females. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the parameters of the second and third lumbar vertebra could be valuable in the determination of the age, height, and sex of the Iranian population. Our results could have practical implications in forensic anthropology in serious events like earthquakes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammadreza Khaleghi
- Radiation Sciences Research Center (RSRC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Memarian
- Forensic Medicine and Toxicology Department, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Babak Shekarchi
- Radiation Sciences Research Center (RSRC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Radiation Sciences Research Center (RSRC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, West Fatemi St., P.O. Box: 14117-18541, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Hamed Bagheri
- Radiation Sciences Research Center (RSRC), AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nazanin Maleki
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nasrin Safari
- School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Wang W, Li H, Huang M. A literature review on the impact of disasters on healthcare systems, the role of nursing in disaster management, and strategies for cancer care delivery in disaster-affected populations. Front Oncol 2023; 13:1178092. [PMID: 37519811 PMCID: PMC10382130 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1178092] [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: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
This review article highlights the critical role of nurses in disaster management, with a specific focus on addressing blood tumors in disaster-affected populations. Disasters have a significant impact on healthcare systems and populations, and nurses play a crucial role in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. The article provides case studies and successful examples of nursing interventions in disaster settings and tumor management, emphasizing the challenges and opportunities in providing cancer care in disaster settings. Recommendations for future research and practice in disaster nursing and blood tumor care are also presented. This information is essential for healthcare professionals and policymakers involved in disaster management, as well as researchers and clinicians working in the field of cancer care.
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Blau S, Roberts J, Cunha E, Delabarde T, Mundorff AZ, de Boer HH. Re-examining so-called 'secondary identifiers' in Disaster Victim Identification (DVI): Why and how are they used? Forensic Sci Int 2023; 345:111615. [PMID: 36907108 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
Disaster victim identification (DVI) refers to the identification of multiple deceased persons following an event that has a catastrophic effect on human lives and living conditions. Identification methods in DVI are typically described as either being primary, which include nuclear genetic markers (DNA), dental radiograph comparisons, and fingerprint comparisons, or secondary, which are all other identifiers and are ordinarily considered insufficient as a sole means of identification. The aim of this paper is to review the concept and definition of so-called 'secondary identifiers" and draw on personal experiences to provide practical recommendations for improved consideration and use. Initially, the concept of secondary identifiers is defined and examples of publications where such identifiers have been used in human rights violation cases and humanitarian emergencies are reviewed. While typically not investigated under a strict DVI framework, the review highlights the idea that non-primary identifiers have proven useful on their own for identifying individuals killed as a result of political, religious, and/or ethnic violence. The use of non-primary identifiers in DVI operations in the published literature is then reviewed. Because there is a plethora of different ways in which secondary identifiers are referenced it was not possible to identify useful search terms. Consequently, a broad literature search (rather than a systematic review) was undertaken. The reviews highlight the potential value of so-called secondary identifiers but more importantly show the need to scrutinise the implied inferior value of non-primary methods which is suggested by the terms "primary" and "secondary". The investigative and evaluative phases of the identification process are examined, and the concept of "uniqueness" is critiqued. The authors suggest that non-primary identifiers may play an important role in providing leads to formulating an identification hypothesis and, using the Bayesian approach of evidence interpretation, may assist in establishing the value of the evidence in guiding the identification effort. A summary of contributions non-primary identifiers may make to DVI efforts is provided. In conclusion, the authors argue that all lines of evidence should be considered because the value of an identifier will depend on the context and the victim population. A series of recommendations are provided for consideration for the use of non-primary identifiers in DVI scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Blau
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.
| | - J Roberts
- Alecto Forensics, Liverpool John Moores University, UK
| | - E Cunha
- National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, Lisbon and University of Coimbra, Centre for Functional Ecology, Department of Life Sciences, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - T Delabarde
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Paris. UMR8045 CNRS Université de Paris, France
| | - A Z Mundorff
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - H H de Boer
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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18
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Dahal S, Chaudhary GK, Agrawal NK. Operation makalu air crash: influence of cognitive and human factors on decision-making. Forensic Sci Res 2023; 7:803-807. [PMID: 36817246 PMCID: PMC9930785 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2022.2095691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Two onboard crew members lost their lives in the fatal Makalu Air Cessna Grand Caravan 208B domestic cargo flight crash on May 16, 2018. The Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) procedure comprises external examination, photography, DNA collection, fingerprint collection, postmortem examination, antemortem information collection from the family members, and reconciliation. The major challenge of this operation was dealing with cognitive bias. The antemortem dental information of one of the deceased was revealed to the forensic experts just before the postmortem examination. This influenced the testing strategies. There was a tendency to neglect the complete dental examination presuming the identification was established. Later, during a thorough examination, the forensic odontologist realised that the initial decision was erroneous. Furthermore, there are few experience-based resources available to resolve cognitive bias issues. The authors begin by summarising complicated operations in which they have been involved, followed by a discussion of the key sources of cognitive bias along with the solution to resolve these issues in DVI preparedness planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samarika Dahal
- Department of Dentistry, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal,CONTACT Samarika Dahal
| | - Gopal Kumar Chaudhary
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Maharajgunj, Kathmandu, Nepal
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19
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Rahebi D, Naghavialhosseini A, Pakkhesal M, Rajabi A, Mirzaei F, Salim NA, Sallam M. Palatal Rugae Patterns in Fars, Turkmen, and Sistani Ethnicities in the Eastern Part of the Caspian Littoral of Iran. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13020200. [PMID: 36673008 PMCID: PMC9857795 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13020200] [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: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In forensic medicine, it is important to identify whole or fragmented bodies. This aim can be particularly challenging in mass disasters. Palatal rugae patterns can be used as a surrogate parameter in forensic medicine. This stems from the difficulty in falsifying these patterns, their resistance to trauma, to decomposition for several days postmortem, and to combustion under high-temperatures, as well as being distinguishable among different races. The present study aimed to analyze the differences in the palatal rugae patterns among three Iranian ethnicities (Fars, Turkmen, and Sistani). This retrospective study involved the use of archived materials. The study casts were selected from the database of patients who visited a private orthodontics clinic. A total of 309 dental casts (103 Fars, 103 Turkmen, and 103 Sistani) were assessed, which belonged to 181 females and 128 males aged between 12 and 30 years (mean: 16.86 ± 3.18 years). The difference in the mean number of palatal rugae in women between the three ethnicities was statistically significant. Also, the differences in the total number of straight rugae were significant between the three ethnic groups. The most common rugae shapes in the three ethnic groups were the straight and wavy shapes. The length of the palatal rugae in the primary and secondary rugae among the study subjects younger than 18-years-old was significantly different between the three ethnic groups. Thus, the present research highlighted the differences in palatal rugae patterns among three Iranian ethnicities. Therefore, palatal rugae can be used in forensic medicine as a complementary approach to human identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donya Rahebi
- Dental Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
| | - Aliakbar Naghavialhosseini
- Orthodontics Department, School of Dentistry, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
| | - Mina Pakkhesal
- Community Oral Health Department, School of Dentistry, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (M.S.); Tel.: +962-79-184-5186 (M.S.)
| | - Abdolhalim Rajabi
- Department of Health Management and Social Development Research Center, Faculty of Health, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mirzaei
- Student Research Committee, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan 49138-15739, Iran
| | - Nesreen A. Salim
- Prosthodontic Department, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Prosthodontic Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (M.S.); Tel.: +962-79-184-5186 (M.S.)
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20
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Lončar SR, Halcrow SE, Swales D. Osteoimmunology: The effect of autoimmunity on fracture healing and skeletal analysis. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 6:100326. [PMID: 37091290 PMCID: PMC10120377 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100326] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Understanding factors that affect bone response to trauma is integral to forensic skeletal analysis. It is essential in forensic anthropology to identify if impaired fracture healing impacts assessment of post-traumatic time intervals and whether a correction factor is required. This paper presents a synthetic review of the intersection of the literature on the immune system, bone biology, and osteoimmunological research to present a novel model of interactions that may affect fracture healing under autoimmune conditions. Results suggest that autoimmunity likely impacts fracture healing, the pathogenesis however, is under researched, but likely multifactorial. With autoimmune diseases being relatively common, significant clinical history should be incorporated when assessing skeletal remains. Future research includes the true natural healing rate of bone; effect of autoimmunity on this rate; variation of healing with different autoimmune diseases; and if necessary, development of a correction factor on the natural healing rate to account for impairment in autoimmunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephie R. Lončar
- Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, New Zealand
- Corresponding author. Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification School of Science and Engineering, MSI/WTB Complex, University of Dundee, Dow Street, Dundee, DD1 5EH, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Siân E. Halcrow
- Department of Anatomy, University of Otago, New Zealand
- Corresponding author. Biological Anthropology Research Group, Department of Anatomy, 270 Great King Street, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9016, New Zealand.
| | - Diana Swales
- Centre for Anatomy and Human Identification, School of Science and Engineering, University of Dundee, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Malatong Y, Intasuwan P, Palee P, Sinthubua A, Mahakkanukrauh P. Deep learning and morphometric approach for Sex determination of the lumbar vertebrae in a Thai population. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2023; 63:14-21. [PMID: 35306907 DOI: 10.1177/00258024221089073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Sex determination is a fundamental step in biological profile estimation from skeletal remains in forensic anthropology. This study proposes deep learning and morphometric technique to perform sex determination from lumbar vertebrae in a Thai population. A total of 1100 lumbar vertebrae (L1-L5) from 220 Thai individuals (110 males and 110 females) were obtained from the Forensic Osteology Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand. In addition, two linear measurements of superior and inferior endplates from the digital caliper and image analysis were carried out for morphometric technique. Deep learning applied image classification to the superior and inferior endplates of the lumbar vertebral body. All lumbar vertebrae images are included in the dataset to increase the number of images per class. The accuracy determined the performance of each technique. The results showed the accuracies of 82.7%, 90.0%, and 92.5% for digital caliper, image analysis, and deep learning techniques, respectively. The lumbar vertebrae L1-L5 exhibit sexual dimorphism and can be used in sex estimation. Deep learning is more accurate in determining sex than the morphometric method. In addition, the subjectivity and errors in the measurement are decreased. Finally, this study presented an alternative approach to determining sex from lumbar vertebrae when the more traditionally used skeletal elements are incomplete or absent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanumart Malatong
- Program in Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pittayarat Intasuwan
- Program in Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Patison Palee
- College of Arts, Media and Technology, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Apichat Sinthubua
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pasuk Mahakkanukrauh
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Faculty of Medicine, 26682Chiang Mai University, Forensic Osteology Research Center, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Excellence in Osteology Research and Training Center, 26682Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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22
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Development and implementation of forensic anthropology in Swedish forensic practice. SCANDINAVIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/sjfs-2022-0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
This paper presents the ongoing development of forensic anthropology in Sweden. We discuss the background of the discipline, its application, as well as its current and potential development in Swedish forensic practice. Collaboration with osteoarchaeologists in skeletal forensic cases has a long tradition in Sweden. Analyses of skeletal remains are performed ad-hoc, in contrast to analyses of fleshed human remains. While several law enforcement employees are educated in forensic anthropology and/or osteoarchaeology, they are not employed in these fields, and regional variations are evident. Internationally, forensic anthropology has become an autonomous forensic discipline over the past decades, requiring skills beyond mere skeletal analysis. To keep on a par with international standards, it may be time to revisit the concept of forensic anthropology in Sweden. Despite the limited presence of supporting organisational structures and systems, forensic anthropological and hard-tissue-reliant physico-chemical analyses have proven valuable in Swedish forensic practice, especially in cases of personal identification, trauma analysis and search efforts. We argue that Sweden could benefit from making qualified forensic anthropology expertise available in all law enforcement regions, starting to implement and promote forensic anthropology in routine forensic casework and formalising the role of forensic anthropology practitioners.
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Forensic Anthropology and Archaeology in Denmark. SCANDINAVIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/sjfs-2022-0016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
In this paper, we provide a brief overview of the status of forensic anthropology and forensic archeology in Denmark, as well as related information about education, research, and skeletal collections. Forensic anthropologists mainly deal with the examination of unidentified skeletal remains. Some special tasks include cranial trauma analysis of the recently deceased, advanced 3D visualization from CT scanning of homicide cases, and stature estimation of perpetrators using surveillance videos. Forensic anthropologists are employed at one of Denmark’s three departments of forensic medicine (in Copenhagen, Odense, and Aarhus) and have access to advanced imaging equipment (e.g., CT and MR scanning, surface scanners, and 3D printers) for use in both their requisitioned work and their research. Extensive research is conducted on different topics, such as the health and diseases of past populations, age estimation, and human morphology. Research is based on skeletal material from the archeological collections housed in Copenhagen and Odense or on CT data from the recently deceased. There is no full degree in forensic anthropology in Denmark, but elective courses and lectures are offered to students at different levels and to people from different professional backgrounds.
Forensic archaeology is a relatively new field of expertise in Denmark, and relevant cases are rare, with only one or two cases per year. No forensic archeologists are officially employed in any of the departments of forensic medicine. Until recently, the Special Crime Unit of the police handled crime scene investigations involving excavations, but with the option of enlisting the help of outside specialists, such as archaeologists, anthropologists, and pathologists. An official excavation work group was established in 2015 under the lead of the Special Crime Unit of the police with the aim of refining the methods and procedures used in relevant criminal investigations. The group is represented by five police officers from the Special Crime Scene Unit, a police officer from the National Police Dog Training center, the two archaeologists from Moesgaard Museum, a forensic anthropologist from the Department of Forensic Medicine (University of Copenhagen), and a forensic pathologist from the Department of Forensic Medicine (University of Aarhus).
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Franco A, Porto L, Heng D, Murray J, Lygate A, Franco R, Bueno J, Sobania M, Costa MM, Paranhos LR, Manica S, Abade A. Diagnostic performance of convolutional neural networks for dental sexual dimorphism. Sci Rep 2022; 12:17279. [PMID: 36241670 PMCID: PMC9568558 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-21294-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Convolutional neural networks (CNN) led to important solutions in the field of Computer Vision. More recently, forensic sciences benefited from the resources of artificial intelligence, especially in procedures that normally require operator-dependent steps. Forensic tools for sexual dimorphism based on morphological dental traits are available but have limited performance. This study aimed to test the application of a machine learning setup to distinguish females and males using dentomaxillofacial features from a radiographic dataset. The sample consisted of panoramic radiographs (n = 4003) of individuals in the age interval of 6 and 22.9 years. Image annotation was performed with V7 software (V7labs, London, UK). From Scratch (FS) and Transfer Learning (TL) CNN architectures were compared, and diagnostic accuracy tests were used. TL (82%) performed better than FS (71%). The correct classifications of females and males aged ≥ 15 years were 87% and 84%, respectively. For females and males < 15 years, the correct classifications were 80% and 83%, respectively. The Area Under the Curve (AUC) from Receiver-operating Characteristic (ROC) curves showed high classification accuracy between 0.87 and 0.91. The radio-diagnostic use of CNN for sexual dimorphism showed positive outcomes and promising forensic applications to the field of dental human identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ademir Franco
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK ,grid.448878.f0000 0001 2288 8774Department of Therapeutic Stomatology, Institute of Dentistry, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia ,grid.456544.20000 0004 0373 160XDivision of Forensic Dentistry, Faculdade Sao Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Lucas Porto
- Computer Vision Solutions, Rumina S.A, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Dennis Heng
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Jared Murray
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Anna Lygate
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Raquel Franco
- grid.411284.a0000 0004 4647 6936Department of Preventive and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Uberlandia, Av. Pará 1720, Bloco 2G, Sala 1, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Juliano Bueno
- grid.456544.20000 0004 0373 160XDivision of Oral Radiology, Faculdade Sao Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Marilia Sobania
- grid.456544.20000 0004 0373 160XDivision of Forensic Dentistry, Faculdade Sao Leopoldo Mandic, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Márcio M. Costa
- grid.411284.a0000 0004 4647 6936Department of Removable Prosthodontics, Federal University of Uberlandia, Uberlândia, Brazil
| | - Luiz R. Paranhos
- grid.411284.a0000 0004 4647 6936Department of Preventive and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Uberlandia, Av. Pará 1720, Bloco 2G, Sala 1, Campus Umuarama, Uberlândia, Minas Gerais Brazil
| | - Scheila Manica
- grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - André Abade
- Computer Science, Federal Institute of Science and Technology, Barra do Garças, Brazil
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Sato M, Kondo Y, Okamoto M, Takahashi N. Development of individual identification method using thoracic vertebral features as biometric fingerprints. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16274. [PMID: 36175477 PMCID: PMC9522789 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20748-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification of individuals is performed when a corpse is found after a natural disaster, incident, or accident. DNA and dental records are frequently used as biometric fingerprints; however, identification may be difficult in some cases due to decomposition or damage to the corpse. The present study aimed to develop an individual identification method using thoracic vertebral features as a biological fingerprint. In this method, the shortest diameter in height, width, and depth of the thoracic vertebrae in the postmortem image and a control antemortem were recorded and a database was compiled using this information. The Euclidean distance or the modified Hausdorff distance was calculated as the distance between two points on the three-dimensional feature space of these measurement data. The thoracic vertebrae T1-12 were measured and the pair with the smallest distance was considered to be from the same person. The accuracy of this method for identifying individuals was evaluated by matching images of 82 cases from a total of 702 antemortem images and showed a hit ratio of 100%. Therefore, this method may be used to identify individuals with high accuracy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuru Sato
- Department of Radiological Technology, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata, 951-8518, Japan.
| | - Yohan Kondo
- Division of Radiological Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Masashi Okamoto
- Division of Radiological Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
| | - Naoya Takahashi
- Division of Radiological Technology, Graduate School of Health Sciences, Niigata University, 2-746 Asahimachi-dori, Chuo-ku, Niigata, Niigata, Japan
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Potential for personal identification using the volume of the mastoid air cells extracted from postmortem computed tomographic images. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2022; 58:102060. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2022.102060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Cao Y, Ma Y, Yang X, Xiong J, Wang Y, Zhang J, Qin Z, Chen Y, Vieira DN, Chen F, Zhang J, Huang P. Use of deep learning in forensic sex estimation of virtual pelvic models from the Han population. Forensic Sci Res 2022; 7:540-549. [PMID: 36353321 PMCID: PMC9639534 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2021.2024369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Accurate sex estimation is crucial to determine the identity of human skeletal remains effectively. Here, we developed convolutional neural network (CNN) models for sex estimation on virtual hemi-pelvic regions, including the ventral pubis (VP), dorsal pubis (DP), greater sciatic notch (GSN), pelvic inlet (PI), ischium, and acetabulum from the Han population and compared these models with two experienced forensic anthropologists using morphological methods. A Computed Tomography (CT) dataset of 862 individuals was divided into the subgroups of training, validation, and testing, respectively. The CT-based virtual hemi-pelvises from the training and validation groups were used to calibrate sex estimation models; and then a testing dataset was used to evaluate the performance of the trained models and two human experts on the sex estimation of specific pelvic regions in terms of overall accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, F1 score, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Except for the ischium and acetabulum, the CNN models trained with the VP, DP, GSN, and PI images achieved excellent results with all the prediction metrics over 0.9. All accuracies were superior to those of the two forensic anthropologists in the independent testing. Notably, the heatmap results confirmed that the trained CNN models were focused on traditional sexual anatomic traits for sex classification. This study demonstrates the potential of AI techniques based on the radiological dataset in sex estimation of virtual pelvic models. The excellent sex estimation performance obtained by the CNN models indicates that this method is valuable to proceed with in prospective forensic trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjie Cao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yonggang Ma
- Department of Medical Imaging, 3201 Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Hanzhong, Shannxi, China
| | - Xiaotong Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
- Department of Forensic Pathology, Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, Shanxi, China
| | - Jian Xiong
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang, Guizhou, China
| | - Yahui Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiqiang Qin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
| | - Yijiu Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
| | - Duarte Nuno Vieira
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Feng Chen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ji Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai, China
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Sartori V, Franco A, Linden MS, Cardoso M, de Castro D, Sartori A, Silva C, Trentin M, De Carli JP. Testing international techniques for the radiographic assessment of third molar maturation. J Clin Exp Dent 2022; 13:e1182-e1188. [PMID: 34987709 PMCID: PMC8715557 DOI: 10.4317/jced.58916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To assess the radiographic third molar maturation with internationally developed techniques for age estimation. MATERIAL AND METHODS The study analyzed 1,062 panoramic radiographs of patients treated at the School of Dentistry of the University of Passo Fundo/RS/Brazil, between 2009 and 2020. The patients were separated into ages between 15.00 and 23.99 years and, for each radiograph, the third molars were classified into stages from 1 to 10, with the subsequent application of one of the formulae proposed by Gunst et al. A dichotomous variable indicating whether each individual was younger or older than 18 was calculated from the chronological age of the individuals. A logistic regression model was adjusted to assess whether the third molar stages are correlated with the age of individuals. RESULTS The error indicators between estimated and chronological ages showed that mean errors closer to zero are seen in the 18-18.9 and 17-17.9 age groups, respectively. Male individuals were earlier in terms of dental mineralization but there were no significant differences between sexes regarding the applicability of the method. The ROC curve shows that the analysis of a single third molar for age estimation gives a maximum of 70.4% reliability. CONCLUSIONS The moderate performance of the technique tested in the present study justify future country-specific corrections to improve age estimation from the radiographic assessment of third molar maturity. Key words:Dental age estimation, forensic dentistry, radiology, third molar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Sartori
- MSc. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, BrazilMSc. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Ademir Franco
- PhD. São Leopoldo Mandic School of Dentistry, Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Therapeutic Dentistry, Institute of Dentistry, Sechenov University, Russia; Forensic Dentistry, Centre of Forensic and Legal Medicine and Dentistry, University of Dundee, Scotland/UK
| | - Maria-Salete Linden
- PhD. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Moisés Cardoso
- PhD. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Dora de Castro
- DDS. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Angélica Sartori
- Ind. Sol Private law firm, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Cauane Silva
- PhD. International Center for Equity in Health, Federal University of Pelotas, Pelotas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Micheline Trentin
- PhD. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - João-Paulo De Carli
- PhD. University of Passo Fundo, School of Dentistry, Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
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de Boer HH, Berger CEH, Blau S. Providing a Forensic Expert Opinion on the "Degree of Force": Evidentiary Considerations. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:1336. [PMID: 34943251 PMCID: PMC8698358 DOI: 10.3390/biology10121336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Forensic pathologists and anthropologists are often asked in court for an opinion about the degree of force required to cause a specific injury. This paper examines and discusses the concept of 'degree of force' and why it is considered a pertinent issue in legal proceedings. This discussion identifies the implicit assumptions that often underpin questions about the 'degree of force'. The current knowledge base for opinions on the degree of force is then provided by means of a literature review. A critical appraisal of this literature shows that much of the results from experimental research is of limited value in routine casework. An alternative approach to addressing the issue is provided through a discussion of the application of Bayes' theorem, also called the likelihood ratio framework. It is argued that the use of this framework makes it possible for an expert to provide relevant and specific evidence, whilst maintaining the boundaries of their field of expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans H. de Boer
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine/Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, VIC 3006, Australia;
| | - Charles E. H. Berger
- Institute of Criminal Law and Criminology, Leiden University, P.O. Box 9500, 2300 RA Leiden, The Netherlands;
- Netherlands Forensic Institute, Ministry of Justice and Security, Government of The Netherlands, 2511 DP The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Soren Blau
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine/Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Southbank, VIC 3006, Australia;
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Malfroy Camine L, Varlet V, Campana L, Grabherr S, Moghaddam N. The big puzzle: A critical review of virtual re-association methods for fragmented human remains in a DVI context'. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 330:111033. [PMID: 34883302 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
During a Disaster Victims Identification (DVI) mission, international protocols rely on interdisciplinary work, especially between specialists from forensic imaging and anthropology. In case of air crashes or explosions, DVI units may face thousands of fragmented human remains (FHRs). The physical re-association of FHRs and the identification process is very complex and challenging, and relies upon expensive and destructive DNA analysis. A virtual re-association (VRA) of these fragments, using Multidetector Computed Tomography (MDCT), could be a helpful tool in forensic anthropology analysis, as it could assist in reducing the number of DNA samples. However, there is no standardized protocol for including such an approach into a DVI procedure. The aim of this study was to summarize and analyze existing techniques through a systematic review and to develop a protocol for virtual re-association of FHRs, adapted to the DVI context. A keyword-based literature search was conducted, focusing on the VRA methods using MDCT imaging and 3D surface scan methodology. Reviews and primary articles, published between 2005 and 2020 in the fields of forensic anthropology, paleoanthropology, archeology, and fracture reduction surgery were sorted out. A total of 45 publications were selected and analyzed based on their content and relevance. The results show that research on the re-association of FHRs increased significantly during the last five years. Seven steps regarding the MDCT-based method for the virtual re-association of FHRs could be identified: acquisition of 3D-images, segmentation of the MDCT-data, post-processing and surface generation, identification of intact and fracture surfaces, identification and registration of matching fragments, and validation of the re-association. The literature is surprisingly sparse regarding the FHRs re-association as a forensic tool, and mainly consists in case reports, whereas validated methods were presented in archeology and surgery publications. However, we were able to adapt the MDCT-based approach for the virtual re-association of the FHRs and propose an innovative protocol for DVI missions. This protocol includes the needed details, from the acquisition of MDCT imaging to the virtual re-association of 3D models and its validation. Each step has to be fully tested, adapted and validated in future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Malfroy Camine
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Vincent Varlet
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lorenzo Campana
- Forensic Imaging and Anthropology Unit, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Silke Grabherr
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Forensic Imaging and Anthropology Unit, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Geneva University Hospital and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Negahnaz Moghaddam
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Forensic Imaging and Anthropology Unit, University Centre of Legal Medicine Lausanne Geneva, Switzerland; Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Castillo Páez JA, Fajardo de Pérez LDC, Moffa Barros AG. [Use of diagnostic modalities for dentofacial imaging in forensic dentistry. Literature review]. REVISTA CIENTÍFICA ODONTOLÓGICA 2021; 9:e088. [PMID: 38463727 PMCID: PMC10919827 DOI: 10.21142/2523-2754-0904-2021-088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the use of diagnostic modalities for dentofacial imaging in forensic dentistry. Materials and Methods A scientific search was carried out in the PubMed, Google Academic, and SciELO databases with the keywords "Dentofacial Imaging", "Panoramic Radiography", "Lateral Cephalogram", "Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)", "Digital Radiography", and "Forensic Dentistry". Forty-eight recently dated articles published in English were selected, seeking information to describe the use of diagnostic modalities pertaining to dentofacial imaging in forensic dentistry. Results The most relevant diagnostic modalities of dentofacial imaging for forensic dentistry include panoramic radiography, lateral skull radiography, posterior-anterior skull radiography and cone beam computed tomography. Conclusions The modalities described, together with morphometric analyses, allow forensic dentists to identify a corpse, estimate age, sex, and even facilitate forensic facial reconstruction for identification purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alberto Castillo Páez
- Departamento de Estomatoquirúrgica, Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Carabobo. Valencia, Venezuela. , Universidad de Carabobo Departamento de Estomatoquirúrgica Facultad de Odontología Universidad de Carabobo Valencia Venezuela
| | - Liliber Del Carmen Fajardo de Pérez
- Departamento de Estomatoquirúrgica, Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Carabobo. Valencia, Venezuela. , Universidad de Carabobo Departamento de Estomatoquirúrgica Facultad de Odontología Universidad de Carabobo Valencia Venezuela
| | - Angelo Giovani Moffa Barros
- Facultad de Odontología de la Universidad de Carabobo. Valencia, Venezuela. Universidad de Carabobo Facultad de Odontología Universidad de Carabobo Valencia Venezuela
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Morrison GS, Weber P, Basu N, Puch-Solis R, Randolph-Quinney PS. Calculation of likelihood ratios for inference of biological sex from human skeletal remains. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2021; 3:100202. [PMID: 34647000 PMCID: PMC8498236 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2021.100202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
It is common in forensic anthropology to draw inferences (e.g., inferences with respect to biological sex of human remains) using statistical models applied to anthropometric data. Commonly used models can output posterior probabilities, but a threshold is usually applied in order to obtain a classification. In the forensic-anthropology literature, there is some unease with this "fall-off-the-cliff" approach. Proposals have been made to exclude results that fall within a "zone of uncertainty", e.g., if the posterior probability for "male" is greater than 0.95 then the remains are classified as male, and if the posterior probability for "male" is less than 0.05 then the remains are classified as female, but if the posterior probability for "male" is between 0.05 and 0.95 the remains are not classified as either male or female. In the present paper, we propose what we believe is a simpler solution that is in line with interpretation of evidence in other branches of forensic science: implementation of the likelihood-ratio framework using relevant data, quantitative measurements, and statistical models. Statistical models that can implement this approach are already widely used in forensic anthropology. All that is required are minor modifications in the way those models are used and a change in the way practitioners and researchers think about the meaning of the output of those models. We explain how to calculate likelihood ratios using osteometric data and linear discriminant analysis, quadratic discriminant analysis, and logistic regression models. We also explain how to empirically validate likelihood-ratio models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey Stewart Morrison
- Forensic Data Science Laboratory, Computer Science Department & Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
- Forensic Evaluation Ltd, Birmingham, UK
| | - Philip Weber
- Forensic Data Science Laboratory, Computer Science Department & Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Nabanita Basu
- Forensic Data Science Laboratory, Computer Science Department & Aston Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Aston University, Birmingham, UK
| | - Roberto Puch-Solis
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Patrick S. Randolph-Quinney
- Forensic Science Research Group, Department of Applied Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
- Department of Human Anatomy and Physiology, University of Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sex determination based on dimensions of wrist and metacarpals in contemporary Iranian population. FORENSIC IMAGING 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fri.2021.200464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Bunyarit SS, Nambiar P, Naidu MK, Ying RPY, Asif MK. Dental age estimation of Malay children and adolescents: Chaillet and Demirjian's data improved using artificial multilayer perceptron neural network. PEDIATRIC DENTAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pdj.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [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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35
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Alfsdotter C. Forensic archaeology and forensic anthropology within Swedish law enforcement: current state and suggestions for future developments. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2021.100178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
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Raffone C, Baeta M, Lambacher N, Granizo-Rodríguez E, Etxeberria F, de Pancorbo MM. Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that may influence DNA preservation in skeletal remains: A review. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 325:110859. [PMID: 34098475 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2020] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The identification of skeletal human remains, severely compromised by putrefaction, or highly deteriorated, is important for legal and humanitarian reasons. There are different tools that can help in the identification process such as anthropological and genetic studies. The success observed during the last decade in genetic analysis of skeletal remains has been possible especially due to the refinements of DNA extraction and posterior analysis techniques. However, despite these progresses, many challenges keep influencing the results of such analysis, mainly the limited amount and the degradation of the DNA recovered from badly preserved samples. By now, there is still no wide-range knowledge about post-mortem kinetics of DNA degradation. Therefore, taphonomy studies can play a key role in the reconstruction of post-mortem transformations that skeletal remains, and consequently DNA, have undergone. Thus, the goal of the present review focuses on the assessment of the literature regarding the possible effect of intrinsic (characteristics of the bone) and extrinsic (environmental) factors on the state of preservation of skeletal remains recovered in a terrestrial environment and their genetic material. The establishment of useful indicators describing the state of the remains is a key factor in order to determine their suitability for posterior biomolecular analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caterina Raffone
- BIOMICs Research Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Department of Physical Anthropology, Society of Sciences Aranzadi, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Miriam Baeta
- BIOMICs Research Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Nicole Lambacher
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Society of Sciences Aranzadi, Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Eva Granizo-Rodríguez
- BIOMICs Research Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Francisco Etxeberria
- Department of Legal Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Donostia-San Sebastian, Spain
| | - Marian M de Pancorbo
- BIOMICs Research Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
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Computer-aided superimposition of the frontal sinus via 3D reconstruction for comparative forensic identification. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1993-2001. [PMID: 33890165 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02585-0] [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: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The anatomical uniqueness of the frontal sinus morphology has been widely used for comparative forensic identification using various techniques, mostly including 2D X-rays or one fixed slice of an axial computed tomography (CT) scan image. However, computer-aided 3D automatic graphical comparison techniques can provide accurate comparisons between two 3D models that allow users to comply with even the strictest deviation standards, avoiding error-prone identification of frontal sinuses with similar morphologies. The study proposes the use of a computer-aided comparative paradigm based on the 3D-3D frontal sinus model superimposition process and further assesses the anatomical uniqueness of frontal sinuses using a large Chinese Han sample. Three hundred thirty-six patients older than 20 years with two multi-slice CT scans were collected. Frontal sinus 3D models were semi-automatically segmented through Dolphin Imaging software. Automatic pairwise comparisons of 336 matched pairs from the same person and 340 mismatched pairs from different individuals with an analysis of average root mean square (RMS) point-to-point distance were performed using Geomagic Studio Qualify software. RMS ranged between 0.005 and 1.032 (mean RMS 0.390 ± 0.25 mm) in the group of matches and between 1.107 and 19.363 (mean RMS 4.49 ± 2.69 mm) in the group of mismatches. On average, the RMS value was over ten-fold greater in mismatches than in matches. Statistically significant differences in RMS between the group of matches and mismatches were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test (p < 0.05). This study supports the value of the frontal sinus with a 3D computer-aided superimposition method for human identification with large samples when DNA, fingerprints, and dental materials are not accessible.
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38
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Shedge R, Kanchan T, Warrier V, Dixit SG, Krishan K. Forensic age estimation using conventional radiography of the medial clavicular epiphysis: A systematic review. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2021; 61:138-146. [PMID: 33541216 DOI: 10.1177/0025802420988223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Of the many roles that forensic anthropologists and medico-legal professionals need to perform, forensic age estimation is one of the most frequent and important. Scoring medial clavicular epiphyseal (MCE) fusion is a method used to estimate age in young adults. The aim of this systematic review is to assess the reliability and reproducibility of MCE fusion visualised by conventional radiography and scored by Schmeling's grading system to determine whether an individual has attained the age of 18 years. Four articles were acquired after screening 4589 articles across four databases, and these were subjected to qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The risk of bias was calculated in the qualitative synthesis using the QUADAS-2 tool. Horizontal box plots were constructed to see whether MCE fusion as visualised by conventional radiography can be used to ascertain whether an individual has attained the age of maturity (18 years). It was observed that stages 4 and 5 of the Schmeling's method of age estimation from MCE fusion are observed only in individuals aged ≥18 years. This indicates that MCE fusion, when visualised using x-rays, which are associated with less ionisation radiation compared to computed tomography, can be used to verify the attainment of the age majority in individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutwik Shedge
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Tanuj Kanchan
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Varsha Warrier
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Shilpi Gupta Dixit
- Department of Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
| | - Kewal Krishan
- Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India
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Mazzarelli D, Milotta L, Franceschetti L, Maggioni L, Merelli VG, Poppa P, Porta D, De Angelis D, Cattaneo C. Twenty-five years of unidentified bodies: an account from Milano, Italy. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1983-1991. [PMID: 33748873 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02560-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The identification of decedents has always been a central issue in forensic pathology, for ethical, criminal, and administrative reasons, but today, it needs more attention due to issues related not only to migration but also to the weakening of family ties. This article presents a descriptive study discussing the Italian regulatory situation developed in the last decade to face the many identification issues, with all its improvements and flaws. Hence, data gathered in 25 years of at the Institute of Legal Medicine of Milan and the epidemiology of unidentified decedents are illustrated. Briefly, from 1995 to 2019, the number of unidentified human remains with no identity or requesting verification of identity amounts to 726, i.e., 3% circa of all autopsies performed at the Institute, with an average of 29 individuals per year. In total, 528 (72.7%) individuals were successfully identified, 100 (13.8%) remained without an identity, and 98 (13.5%) individuals remained with suspected yet unconfirmed identities. Percentages for each identification technique are displayed, with insight into the role of forensic anthropology and odontology compared to genetics, and into the misuse of non-scientific methods allowed by Public Prosecutors. All the data is compared, as much as possible, with the very few recent studies concerning the problem worldwide. Finally, the article aims to show the Italian experience in dealing with unidentified bodies, in order to provide food for thought for other countries toward a discussion regarding a global issue which is sometimes taken for granted and underestimated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora Mazzarelli
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Milotta
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Franceschetti
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy.
| | - Lidia Maggioni
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Vera Gloria Merelli
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Pasquale Poppa
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Davide Porta
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Danilo De Angelis
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Cristina Cattaneo
- LABANOF, Laboratorio Di Antropologia E Odontologia Forense, Istituto Di Medicina Legale, Dipartimento Di Scienze Biomediche Per La Salute, Università Degli Studi Di Milano, via Luigi Mangiagalli 37, 20133, Milano, Italy
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40
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Shedge R, Kanchan T, Kushwaha KPS, Krishan K. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the wrist and elbow joints: A pilot study to explore a non-invasive technique for age estimation. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2021; 61:14-22. [PMID: 32955986 DOI: 10.1177/0025802420955096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Age estimation is a vital aspect of the process of identification. Studying the appearance and fusion of long bones is one of the most commonly used methods for age estimation. Most research conducted on age estimation using the study of the appearance and fusion of ossification centres has been roentgenographic in nature. However, X-ray examination and computed tomography examination are associated with ionisation radiation. The present study investigated the use of ultrasonography (USG) as a means of visualising ossification centres of the elbow and wrist joints for age estimation in 31 Maharashtrian boys from Ahmednagar, India. The Schmeling et al. method of grading was used to score the fusion of ossification centres, and simple and multiple linear regression models were developed for age estimation. It was found that the ossification centres of the elbow and wrist joints followed a set pattern of maturation and fusion. The ossification centres of the elbow joint fused before the ossification centres of the wrist joint. The fusion scores of proximal radial epiphyses had the highest correlation with the decimal age of the participants, making its fusion the best indicator among all the ossification centres examined in this study for age estimation. Regression models to estimate age were generated using all the ossification centres. USG was found to be suitable for the purpose of age estimation based on ease of examination, minimal ionisation risks, its non-invasive nature and clear visualisation of ossification centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rutwik Shedge
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
| | - Tanuj Kanchan
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
| | - Krit Pal Singh Kushwaha
- Department of Forensic Biology, Lok Nayak Jayprakash Narayan National Institute of Criminology and Forensic Science, India
| | - Kewal Krishan
- Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, India
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41
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Estimation of sex in forensic examinations using logistic regression and likelihood ratios. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2020.100118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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42
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Virtual anthropology? Reliability of three-dimensional photogrammetry as a forensic anthropology measurement and documentation technique. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:939-950. [PMID: 33244707 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02473-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Osseous remains provide forensic anthropologists with morphological and osteometric information that can be used in building a biological profile. By conducting a visual and physical examination, an anthropologist can infer information such as the sex and age of the deceased. Traditionally, morphological and osteometric information is gathered by physically handling remains for analysis. With the advancement of digital technology, there has been a shift from direct to indirect methods of analysis by utilizing models generated from three-dimensional (3D) imaging, which includes computed tomography (CT) scanning and 3D photogrammetry. Although CT scanning is more common, photogrammetry has found application in a range of fields such as architecture, geography and road accident reconstruction. The application of modern-day photogrammetry for forensic anthropology purposes, however, has not been discussed extensively. The aim of this research was to validate the accuracy of 3D models generated by photogrammetry by comparing them to both 3D models generated by CT scanning and the actual physical models. In this study, six 3D models were created using photogrammetry (n = 3) and CT scanning (n = 3). The 3D models were generated from three different Bone Clone® human skulls. A mobile phone camera was used to capture images, which were then processed in Agisoft Metashape®. Intrarater, interrater, and intermethod reliability tests gave correlation coefficients of at least 0.9980, 0.9871, and 0.9862, respectively; rTEM results ranged from 0.250 to 6.55%; and an analysis of variance (ANOVA) yielded P values under 0.05 for all measurements except one. Statistical tests therefore showed photogrammetry to be a reliable and accurate alternative to more expensive CT scanning approaches.
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43
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Test of the auricular surface sex estimation method in fetuses and non-adults under 5 years old from the Lisbon and Granada Reference Collections. Int J Legal Med 2020; 135:993-1003. [PMID: 32990776 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-020-02431-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/11/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Non-adult sex estimation is an active field of forensic inquiry as morphological variations between males and females are subtle, but observable, even from intrauterine development. The objectives of this study are threefold: to test the validity of the auricular surface method for sex estimation (Int J Osteoarchaeol 27:898-911, 2017) in fetuses and children under the age of 5 years old; to evaluate if health conditions, reported as the cause of death, influence its accuracy; and to detect possible secular trends in sexual dimorphism. One-hundred and ninety-seven skeletal individuals from the Lisbon and Granada Identified Collections were studied. Individuals were divided according to the hormonal peaks (< 0, 0-2, < 2, and 2.1-5 years old), cause, and year of death (before and after 1960). As in previous studies, two ratios (FI/CF and DE/AD) and two qualitative variables (OM and MRS) showed the highest frequencies of correct estimation (0.81-0.86). The correct sex allocations increased when the discriminant function (0.85) and logistic regression (0.86) were applied. Males of the age groups < 0 and 2.1-5 years were all correctly sexed by both formulae, and the same was observed for the female probabilities of adequate allocation. The cause and year of death were identified as variables without statistical significance. It is proposed that this method can be incorporated with confidence into the multifactorial laboratory protocols for non-adult sex estimation from skeletal remains.
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44
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Touron P, Siatka C, Pussiau A, Follot S, Fritz T, Petit M, Latifa N, Herrmann JL, Rottman M, Lemoine A, Hubac S. A mobile DNA laboratory for forensic science adapted to coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2020; 40:197-200. [PMID: 32666482 PMCID: PMC7359427 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-020-03989-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The Forensic Science Institute of the French “Gendarmerie Nationale” (IRCGN™) developed in 2015 an ISO 17025 certified mobile DNA laboratory for genetic analyses. This Mobil’DNA laboratory is a fully autonomous and adaptable mobile laboratory to perform genetic analyses in the context of crime scenes, terrorism attacks or disasters. To support the hospital task force in Paris during the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic, we adapted this mobile genetic laboratory to perform high-throughput molecular screening for coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 by real-time PCR. We describe the adaptation of this Mobil’DNA lab to assist in Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Touron
- PJGN, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, 95000, Cergy, France.,IRCGN, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Christian Siatka
- Université de Nîmes, 7 Place Gabriel Péri, 30000, Nîmes, France.,Ecole de l'ADN, 19 grand rue, Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle, 30000, Nîmes, France
| | | | | | - Thibaud Fritz
- IRCGN, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Mikaël Petit
- PJGN, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, 95000, Cergy, France
| | - Noussair Latifa
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris INSERM U1173, UFR Simone Veil, Versailles-Saint-Quentin University, 78180, Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, France
| | - Jean-Louis Herrmann
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris INSERM U1173, UFR Simone Veil, Versailles-Saint-Quentin University, 78180, Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, France
| | - Martin Rottman
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris INSERM U1173, UFR Simone Veil, Versailles-Saint-Quentin University, 78180, Saint-Quentin en Yvelines, France
| | - Antoinette Lemoine
- Département Médical Universitaire de Biologie-Génétique-Pharmacie, AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, 78 rue du Général Leclerc, 94270, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France
| | - Sylvain Hubac
- IRCGN, 5 Boulevard de l'Hautil, 95000, Cergy, France. .,Ecole de l'ADN, 19 grand rue, Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle, 30000, Nîmes, France.
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45
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de Boer HH, Roberts J, Delabarde T, Mundorff AZ, Blau S. Disaster victim identification operations with fragmented, burnt, or commingled remains: experience-based recommendations. Forensic Sci Res 2020; 5:191-201. [PMID: 33224550 PMCID: PMC7654639 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2020.1751385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Human-made and natural disasters can result in severely fragmented, compromised, and commingled human remains. The related disaster victim identification (DVI) operations are invariably challenging, with the state of the remains potentially precluding some identifications. Practitioners involved in these DVI operations will routinely face logistical, practical, and ethical challenges. This review provides information and guidance derived from first-hand experiences to individuals tasked with managing DVI operations with fragmented human remains. We outline several key issues that should be addressed during disaster preparedness planning and at the outset of an operation, when incident-specific strategies are developed. Specific challenges during recovery and examination of fragmented remains are addressed, highlighting the importance of experienced specialists at the scene and in the mortuary. DNA sample selection and sampling techniques are reviewed, as well as downstream effects of commingling and contamination, which can complicate reconciliation and emphasise the need for rigorous quality control. We also touch on issues that may arise during communication with families. While recommendations are provided, they are not intended as proscriptive policy but rather as an addition to the general recommendations given in the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) DVI Guide, to inform preparative discussions between government officials, judiciary, police, and forensic specialists.Key points A DVI operation for an incident characterised by many fragmented and otherwise compromised human remains poses specific challenges that may prolong and complicate identifications. Specialists should be consulted at the outset to address key issues related to the aim and extent of the operation. Specialist expertise in handling compromised human remains is indispensable at the scene, in the mortuary, during reconciliation, and for quality control. Continuous consultation between representatives from government, the judiciary, law enforcement, the media, and various forensic specialists will prevent unnecessary delay and facilitate accurate and timely communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans H de Boer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands.,Department of Pathology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Julie Roberts
- Faculty of Science, School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, UK.,Principal Forensic Services Ltd, Bromley, UK
| | - Tania Delabarde
- Institut Médico-Légal de Paris, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, BABEL, CNRS, Paris, France
| | - Amy Z Mundorff
- Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | - Soren Blau
- Department of Forensic Services, Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Joint Genetic Analyses of Mitochondrial and Y-Chromosome Molecular Markers for a Population from Northwest China. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11050564. [PMID: 32443545 PMCID: PMC7290686 DOI: 10.3390/genes11050564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The genetic markers on mitochondria DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome can be applied as a powerful tool in population genetics. We present a study to reveal the genetic background of Kyrgyz group, a Chinese ethnic group living in northwest China, and genetic polymorphisms of 60 loci on maternal inherited mtDNA and 24 loci on paternal inherited Y-chromosome short tandem repeats (Y-STRs) were investigated. The relationship between the two systems was tested, and the result indicated that they were statistically independent from each other. The genetic distances between Kyrgyz group and 11 reference populations for mtDNA, and 13 reference populations for Y-STRs were also calculated, respectively. The present results demonstrated that the Kyrgyz group was genetically closer to East Asian populations than European populations based on the mtDNA loci but the other way around for the Y-STRs. The genetic analyses could largely strengthen the understanding for the genetic background of the Kyrgyz group.
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47
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Ellis P. Modern advances in disaster victim identification. Forensic Sci Res 2019; 4:291-292. [PMID: 32002487 PMCID: PMC6968626 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2019.1678798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Video abstract Watch the video on Vimeo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Ellis
- Forensic Medicine and Pathology Consultancy, Adjunct Professor
of Forensic Medicine and pathology, Griffith University, Brisbane,
Australia
- Adjunct Professor, School of Public Health and Social
Services, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane,
Australia
- Chair, Pathology and Anthropology Sub-Working Group of INTERPOL DVI Working
Group
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48
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Cipolloni L, Baldari B, Besi L, Scopetti M, Di Sanzo M, Ursu S, Fineschi V. Management of victims occurred in mass disaster: The experience of center Italy earthquake 2016. J Forensic Leg Med 2019; 62:19-24. [PMID: 30634072 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2019.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy.
| | - Benedetta Baldari
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy
| | - Livia Besi
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Scopetti
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Di Sanzo
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy
| | - Simona Ursu
- Department of Planning, Evaluation and Control, Umberto I University Hospital, Viale del Policlinico, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomic, Hystologic, Orthopedic and Forensic Science, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Roma, Italy
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