Pub Date : 2023-05-12eCollection Date: 2023-01-01DOI: 10.5194/pb-10-1-2023
Roland Plesker, Kernt Köhler
Two cystadenomas and one solid adenoma of the thyroid gland in a 27-year-old female African green monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) are described here. Histologically, the solid adenoma was classified as a well-defined solid follicular adenoma of microfollicular type. The solid adenoma was positive for thyroglobulin in immunohistochemistry staining, whereas the cystadenomas stained positive for both thyroglobulin and calcitonin. No evidence of excess hormone production related to the tumor presence was detected.
{"title":"Multiple adenomas of the thyroid gland in an African green monkey (<i>Chlorocebus aethiops</i>).","authors":"Roland Plesker, Kernt Köhler","doi":"10.5194/pb-10-1-2023","DOIUrl":"10.5194/pb-10-1-2023","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Two cystadenomas and one solid adenoma of the thyroid gland in a 27-year-old female African green monkey (<i>Chlorocebus aethiops</i>) are described here. Histologically, the solid adenoma was classified as a well-defined solid follicular adenoma of microfollicular type. The solid adenoma was positive for thyroglobulin in immunohistochemistry staining, whereas the cystadenomas stained positive for both thyroglobulin and calcitonin. No evidence of excess hormone production related to the tumor presence was detected.</p>","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"45 1","pages":"1-6"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-05-12","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11322656/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"80704063","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-05-05DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2175956
Nattida Srinak, Panisa Sukvitchai
Abstract Sex estimation is an essential step for identification of unidentified human remains. Pelvis, skull, and long bones are commonly used because of their distinct sexual dimorphism. However, these bones are incomplete or missing in some circumstances and other potential bones are needed. Several studies have shown the sexual dimorphism of the patella in specific populations by using an anthropometry method with statistical modeling. The patella has been recognized to be resistant to post-mortem changes. We developed discriminant function equations for sex estimation from measurements of the patella in a modern Central Thai population. Six variables of the patella were measured on 130 skeletons derived from Central Institute of Forensic Science, Thailand. Results showed prediction accuracies of 90% on the left side and 93% on the right side. This study illustrated the potential usage of the patella for sex estimation and indicated size variations of the patella among Thai sub-populations. Résumé L’estimation du sexe est une étape essentielle à l’identification de restes humains non identifiés. Le pelvis, le crâne et les os longs sont communément utilisés dus à leur dimorphisme sexuel distinct. Cependant, ces os sont parfois incomplets ou manquants et d’autres éléments deviennent potentiellement nécessaires. Plusieurs études ont démontré un dimorphisme sexuel de la patella chez des populations spécifiques en utilisant des modèles statistiques appliqués à une méthode anthropométrique. La patella a été reconnue comme étant résistante aux changements post-mortem. Nous avons développé des équations de fonctions discriminantes afin d’estimer le sexe à partir de mesures de patella provenant d’une population moderne de la Thaïlande centrale. Six variables de la patella ont été mesurées sur 130 squelettes provenant du Central Institute of Forensic Science en Thaïlande. Les résultats démontrent une prédiction avec une exactitude de 90% pour le côté gauche et de 93% pour le côté droit. Cette étude illustre l’utilité potentielle de la patella pour estimer le sexe, en plus d’indiquer une variation de la taille des patellas entre sous-populations thaïes.
{"title":"Sex estimation from patella using discriminant analysis in Central Thai population","authors":"Nattida Srinak, Panisa Sukvitchai","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2023.2175956","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2023.2175956","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract Sex estimation is an essential step for identification of unidentified human remains. Pelvis, skull, and long bones are commonly used because of their distinct sexual dimorphism. However, these bones are incomplete or missing in some circumstances and other potential bones are needed. Several studies have shown the sexual dimorphism of the patella in specific populations by using an anthropometry method with statistical modeling. The patella has been recognized to be resistant to post-mortem changes. We developed discriminant function equations for sex estimation from measurements of the patella in a modern Central Thai population. Six variables of the patella were measured on 130 skeletons derived from Central Institute of Forensic Science, Thailand. Results showed prediction accuracies of 90% on the left side and 93% on the right side. This study illustrated the potential usage of the patella for sex estimation and indicated size variations of the patella among Thai sub-populations. Résumé L’estimation du sexe est une étape essentielle à l’identification de restes humains non identifiés. Le pelvis, le crâne et les os longs sont communément utilisés dus à leur dimorphisme sexuel distinct. Cependant, ces os sont parfois incomplets ou manquants et d’autres éléments deviennent potentiellement nécessaires. Plusieurs études ont démontré un dimorphisme sexuel de la patella chez des populations spécifiques en utilisant des modèles statistiques appliqués à une méthode anthropométrique. La patella a été reconnue comme étant résistante aux changements post-mortem. Nous avons développé des équations de fonctions discriminantes afin d’estimer le sexe à partir de mesures de patella provenant d’une population moderne de la Thaïlande centrale. Six variables de la patella ont été mesurées sur 130 squelettes provenant du Central Institute of Forensic Science en Thaïlande. Les résultats démontrent une prédiction avec une exactitude de 90% pour le côté gauche et de 93% pour le côté droit. Cette étude illustre l’utilité potentielle de la patella pour estimer le sexe, en plus d’indiquer une variation de la taille des patellas entre sous-populations thaïes.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2023-05-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41459189","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-27DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2172129
Sarabjit Singh, S. Yong, R. Rahimi, M. Singh, C. Heo
{"title":"A review of forensic applications of physicochemical parameters of soil beneath decomposed cadavers","authors":"Sarabjit Singh, S. Yong, R. Rahimi, M. Singh, C. Heo","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2023.2172129","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2023.2172129","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2023-04-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"46318594","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-04-05DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2172128
Dheephikha Kumaraguru, Khairul Osman, N. Hamzah, W. N. S. M. Desa, Gina Francesca Gabriel
Abstract The detection of burned human remains in a fire is daunting, mainly when identifiable skeletons are not found. This study aims to identify volatile organic compounds (VOC) released from the burning of porcine bones in the presence of diesel in a simulated controlled outdoor setting in Malaysia. Neat diesel was diluted with hexane with a ratio of 1:1 and administered into a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Porcine bone was burned to identify VOCs of porcine bones, whereas 30 mL diesel was burned together with porcine bones to identify VOCs produced from the combined burning. After the burning process, an activated carbon tablet was fixed to the burned sample. Later, the tablet was desorbed with hexane and analysed using GC-MS. Results revealed that the combined burning released a set of VOCs that were not detected in burned porcine bone or neat diesel. This work was able to enforce the detection of specific volatiles from various functional groups such as alkanes, isoalkanes, alkylbenzenes and ketones in the combined burning of diesel with porcine bones. It was also discovered that in the specific conditions applied and controlled in this study, most VOCs of porcine bone and diesel respectively were not detected in the combined burning of porcine bone and diesel. Résumé La détection de restes humains brûlés lors d’un incendie est une tâche ardue, surtout lorsque des squelettes identifiables ne sont pas retrouvés. Cette étude vise à identifier les composés organiques volatils (COV) libérés par la combustion d’os de porc en présence de diesel dans un environnement extérieur contrôlé simulé en Malaisie. Le diesel pur a été dilué avec de l’hexane dans un rapport de 1:1 et introduit dans un chromatographe en phase gazeuse avec spectrométrie de masse (GC-MS). Des os de porc ont été brûlés pour identifier les COV, tandis que 30 ml de diesel ont été brûlés en même temps que les os de porc afin d’identifier les COV produits par la combustion combinée. Après le processus de combustion, une pastille de charbon actif a été fixée sur l’échantillon brûlé. La tablette a ensuite été désorbée avec de l’hexane et analysée par GC-MS. Les résultats ont révélé que la combustion combinée libérait une série de COV qui n’ont pas été détectés dans l’os de porc brûlé ou dans le diesel pur. Ce travail a permis de confirmer la détection de substances volatiles spécifiques provenant de divers groupes fonctionnels tels que les alcanes, les isoalcanes, les alkylbenzènes et les cétones dans la combustion combinée de diesel et d’os de porc. Il a également été découvert que dans les conditions spécifiques appliquées et contrôlées dans cette étude, la plupart des COV de l’os de porc et du diesel n’ont pas été détectés dans la combustion combinée d’os de porc et de diesel.
{"title":"Volatile organic compounds of diesel and porcine bone in a simulated controlled fire","authors":"Dheephikha Kumaraguru, Khairul Osman, N. Hamzah, W. N. S. M. Desa, Gina Francesca Gabriel","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2023.2172128","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2023.2172128","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The detection of burned human remains in a fire is daunting, mainly when identifiable skeletons are not found. This study aims to identify volatile organic compounds (VOC) released from the burning of porcine bones in the presence of diesel in a simulated controlled outdoor setting in Malaysia. Neat diesel was diluted with hexane with a ratio of 1:1 and administered into a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Porcine bone was burned to identify VOCs of porcine bones, whereas 30 mL diesel was burned together with porcine bones to identify VOCs produced from the combined burning. After the burning process, an activated carbon tablet was fixed to the burned sample. Later, the tablet was desorbed with hexane and analysed using GC-MS. Results revealed that the combined burning released a set of VOCs that were not detected in burned porcine bone or neat diesel. This work was able to enforce the detection of specific volatiles from various functional groups such as alkanes, isoalkanes, alkylbenzenes and ketones in the combined burning of diesel with porcine bones. It was also discovered that in the specific conditions applied and controlled in this study, most VOCs of porcine bone and diesel respectively were not detected in the combined burning of porcine bone and diesel. Résumé La détection de restes humains brûlés lors d’un incendie est une tâche ardue, surtout lorsque des squelettes identifiables ne sont pas retrouvés. Cette étude vise à identifier les composés organiques volatils (COV) libérés par la combustion d’os de porc en présence de diesel dans un environnement extérieur contrôlé simulé en Malaisie. Le diesel pur a été dilué avec de l’hexane dans un rapport de 1:1 et introduit dans un chromatographe en phase gazeuse avec spectrométrie de masse (GC-MS). Des os de porc ont été brûlés pour identifier les COV, tandis que 30 ml de diesel ont été brûlés en même temps que les os de porc afin d’identifier les COV produits par la combustion combinée. Après le processus de combustion, une pastille de charbon actif a été fixée sur l’échantillon brûlé. La tablette a ensuite été désorbée avec de l’hexane et analysée par GC-MS. Les résultats ont révélé que la combustion combinée libérait une série de COV qui n’ont pas été détectés dans l’os de porc brûlé ou dans le diesel pur. Ce travail a permis de confirmer la détection de substances volatiles spécifiques provenant de divers groupes fonctionnels tels que les alcanes, les isoalcanes, les alkylbenzènes et les cétones dans la combustion combinée de diesel et d’os de porc. Il a également été découvert que dans les conditions spécifiques appliquées et contrôlées dans cette étude, la plupart des COV de l’os de porc et du diesel n’ont pas été détectés dans la combustion combinée d’os de porc et de diesel.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2023-04-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"42311599","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-03-04DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2169478
Adrian Santangelo, Eugene Liscio, Kimberly Nugent
Abstract When a bullet strikes a surface such as a drywall panel, it may perforate the material leaving a hole in the surface or it may ricochet. When multiple bullet impacts exist, for example through a wall section, the probing method allows for the trajectory of a projectile to be reconstructed. Past studies have shown that low angle impacts are subject to error when applying the probing method. Hence, this study used the probing method to examine bullet impacts in wall sections made of drywall to determine the accuracy of the angle of incidence with respect to a known firing position. To control the angle of incidence, drywall panels were positioned at different angles beginning at 90° and decreasing until the panels were at 10°. The measured angle of incidence was compared to the known angle of incidence to determine the accuracy/error. The study observed how .40 S&W caliber ammunition from four different manufacturers, interacted with drywall panels. For each ammunition type and known angle there were three replicates, for a total of 84 impacts (n = 84). It was observed that as the angle of incidence decreased, the error of the measured value increased. Measurements from panel positions at higher angles (between 60°–90°) were more accurate and precise than measurements from panels positioned at lower angles of incidence (10°–45°). The data collected in this study provides insight into the probing method and how the accuracy of measurements can be impacted while the angle of incidence decreases. Résumé Lorsqu’un projectile entre en contact avec une surface, tel qu’un panneau de cloison sèche, il peut perforer le matériau et créer un orifice dans la surface ou encore il peut ricocher. Lorsqu’il y a plusieurs impacts de projectiles, par exemple sur une section de mur, l’emploi de tiges de trajectoire permet de reconstruire la trajectoire d’un projectile. Cependant, des études antérieures ont démontré que la mesure des impacts à angle faible est sujet à des erreurs d’exactitude lors de l’utilisation de cette méthode. Par conséquent, cette étude a utilisé des tiges de trajectoires pour analyser des impacts de projectile sur des sections de mur faites de cloisons sèches, afin de déterminer l’exactitude de l’angle d’incidence mesuré par rapport à une position de tir connue. Afin de contrôler l’angle d’incidence, des panneaux de cloison sèche ont été positionnés à différents angles, en commençant par 90° et en diminuant jusqu’à ce que les panneaux soient à 10°. L’angle d’incidence mesuré a été comparé à l’angle d’incidence connu afin de déterminer l’exactitude/erreur de cette méthode. Cette étude a permis d’observer l’interaction entre les munitions de calibre .40 S&W de quatre fabricants différents et les panneaux de cloisons sèches. Pour chaque type de munition et chaque angle connu, trois réplicas ont été effectués, pour un total de 84 impacts (n=84). Il a été observé que plus l’angle d’incidence diminuait, plus l’erreur de la valeur mesurée aug
{"title":"Accuracy of impact angle determinations from bullet holes in drywall panels","authors":"Adrian Santangelo, Eugene Liscio, Kimberly Nugent","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2023.2169478","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2023.2169478","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract When a bullet strikes a surface such as a drywall panel, it may perforate the material leaving a hole in the surface or it may ricochet. When multiple bullet impacts exist, for example through a wall section, the probing method allows for the trajectory of a projectile to be reconstructed. Past studies have shown that low angle impacts are subject to error when applying the probing method. Hence, this study used the probing method to examine bullet impacts in wall sections made of drywall to determine the accuracy of the angle of incidence with respect to a known firing position. To control the angle of incidence, drywall panels were positioned at different angles beginning at 90° and decreasing until the panels were at 10°. The measured angle of incidence was compared to the known angle of incidence to determine the accuracy/error. The study observed how .40 S&W caliber ammunition from four different manufacturers, interacted with drywall panels. For each ammunition type and known angle there were three replicates, for a total of 84 impacts (n = 84). It was observed that as the angle of incidence decreased, the error of the measured value increased. Measurements from panel positions at higher angles (between 60°–90°) were more accurate and precise than measurements from panels positioned at lower angles of incidence (10°–45°). The data collected in this study provides insight into the probing method and how the accuracy of measurements can be impacted while the angle of incidence decreases. Résumé Lorsqu’un projectile entre en contact avec une surface, tel qu’un panneau de cloison sèche, il peut perforer le matériau et créer un orifice dans la surface ou encore il peut ricocher. Lorsqu’il y a plusieurs impacts de projectiles, par exemple sur une section de mur, l’emploi de tiges de trajectoire permet de reconstruire la trajectoire d’un projectile. Cependant, des études antérieures ont démontré que la mesure des impacts à angle faible est sujet à des erreurs d’exactitude lors de l’utilisation de cette méthode. Par conséquent, cette étude a utilisé des tiges de trajectoires pour analyser des impacts de projectile sur des sections de mur faites de cloisons sèches, afin de déterminer l’exactitude de l’angle d’incidence mesuré par rapport à une position de tir connue. Afin de contrôler l’angle d’incidence, des panneaux de cloison sèche ont été positionnés à différents angles, en commençant par 90° et en diminuant jusqu’à ce que les panneaux soient à 10°. L’angle d’incidence mesuré a été comparé à l’angle d’incidence connu afin de déterminer l’exactitude/erreur de cette méthode. Cette étude a permis d’observer l’interaction entre les munitions de calibre .40 S&W de quatre fabricants différents et les panneaux de cloisons sèches. Pour chaque type de munition et chaque angle connu, trois réplicas ont été effectués, pour un total de 84 impacts (n=84). Il a été observé que plus l’angle d’incidence diminuait, plus l’erreur de la valeur mesurée aug","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2023-03-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41880668","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2023-02-14DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2023.2177392
Elizabeth Knapp, Veronica M. Cappas, R. Roy
{"title":"Generating human STR DNA profiles from blood ingested by leeches","authors":"Elizabeth Knapp, Veronica M. Cappas, R. Roy","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2023.2177392","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2023.2177392","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2023-02-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"47089640","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2022-11-23DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2022.2135742
Jonathan W. Hak
Abstract The search for the truth can be a daunting task, but without knowing what happened and who is responsible, there can be no attempt at achieving any measure of justice. Forensic scientists often play a pivotal role in determining significant facts and interpreting those facts for the court to consider. When called to testify, expert witnesses have a special duty to the court to provide fair, objective, and non-partisan assistance. The courtroom becomes the classroom as the expert witness takes on pedagogical duties of teaching the underlying science, methodology, and the nuances of forensic opinions. Depending on the area of expertise and evidence, the learning curve for the trier of fact can be steep. The didactic presentation of complex data requires planning and skill. Drawing upon my Courtroom Testimony for Expert Witnesses course and my PhD research, I focus on the search for truth, expert witness bias, and the challenge of teaching complex science to the trier of fact. There will be specific emphasis on the incorporation of visual evidence to explain complex concepts in a more concise and memorable manner to aid in comprehension. The expert witness is a teacher and how the expert teaches makes a difference. Résumé La recherche de la vérité peut être une tâche intimidante, mais sans savoir ce qui s’est passé ou qui est responsable, il ne peut y avoir de tentative à atteindre une certaine justice. Les scientifiques judiciaires jouent souvent un rôle primordial dans la détermination des faits significatifs et dans l’interprétation de ces faits pour qu’ils soient pris en compte par le tribunal. Lorsqu’ils sont appelés à témoigner, les témoins experts ont un devoir particulier envers la cour de fournir une assistance équitable, objective et sans parti pris. La salle d’audience devient la salle de classe alors que le témoin expert assume les tâches pédagogiques en enseignant la science fondamentale, la méthodologie et les nuances des opinions judiciaires. En fonction du domaine d’expertise et des preuves, la courbe d’apprentissage pour le juge des faits peut être vertigineux. La présentation didactique de données complexes demande de la planification et des compétences. En se basant sur mon cours de trois jours intitulé “Courtroom Testimony for Expert Witnesses” et ma recherche de doctorat, je me concentrerai sur la recherche de la vérité, la partialité des témoins experts, et le défi d’enseigner de la science complexe au juge des faits. Il y aura un accent spécifique sur l’incorporation de preuves visuelles pour expliquer des concepts complexes d’une façon plus concise et mémorable pour aider à la compréhension. Le témoin expert est un enseignant et la façon dont vous enseignez fait une différence.
{"title":"“The pedagogical expert witness: teaching complex science in the courtroom”","authors":"Jonathan W. Hak","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2022.2135742","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2022.2135742","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The search for the truth can be a daunting task, but without knowing what happened and who is responsible, there can be no attempt at achieving any measure of justice. Forensic scientists often play a pivotal role in determining significant facts and interpreting those facts for the court to consider. When called to testify, expert witnesses have a special duty to the court to provide fair, objective, and non-partisan assistance. The courtroom becomes the classroom as the expert witness takes on pedagogical duties of teaching the underlying science, methodology, and the nuances of forensic opinions. Depending on the area of expertise and evidence, the learning curve for the trier of fact can be steep. The didactic presentation of complex data requires planning and skill. Drawing upon my Courtroom Testimony for Expert Witnesses course and my PhD research, I focus on the search for truth, expert witness bias, and the challenge of teaching complex science to the trier of fact. There will be specific emphasis on the incorporation of visual evidence to explain complex concepts in a more concise and memorable manner to aid in comprehension. The expert witness is a teacher and how the expert teaches makes a difference. Résumé La recherche de la vérité peut être une tâche intimidante, mais sans savoir ce qui s’est passé ou qui est responsable, il ne peut y avoir de tentative à atteindre une certaine justice. Les scientifiques judiciaires jouent souvent un rôle primordial dans la détermination des faits significatifs et dans l’interprétation de ces faits pour qu’ils soient pris en compte par le tribunal. Lorsqu’ils sont appelés à témoigner, les témoins experts ont un devoir particulier envers la cour de fournir une assistance équitable, objective et sans parti pris. La salle d’audience devient la salle de classe alors que le témoin expert assume les tâches pédagogiques en enseignant la science fondamentale, la méthodologie et les nuances des opinions judiciaires. En fonction du domaine d’expertise et des preuves, la courbe d’apprentissage pour le juge des faits peut être vertigineux. La présentation didactique de données complexes demande de la planification et des compétences. En se basant sur mon cours de trois jours intitulé “Courtroom Testimony for Expert Witnesses” et ma recherche de doctorat, je me concentrerai sur la recherche de la vérité, la partialité des témoins experts, et le défi d’enseigner de la science complexe au juge des faits. Il y aura un accent spécifique sur l’incorporation de preuves visuelles pour expliquer des concepts complexes d’une façon plus concise et mémorable pour aider à la compréhension. Le témoin expert est un enseignant et la façon dont vous enseignez fait une différence.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"56 1","pages":"182 - 189"},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2022-11-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"48022738","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2022-11-07DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2022.2144015
Robert C. Chisnall
Abstract The importance of well-preserved knots and ligatures, in conjunction with clear and unambiguous photographs and other recording techniques, is demonstrated using comparatively flawed and idealized images of mock exhibits. The identification of wends (working ends), stands (standing parts), severed ends, and unobstructed crossing points is critical. Further, determining the lengths of segments and the circumferences of loops, along with rope or cord diameters, can be of assistance during an analysis. Subtle details, such as the interrelationship of various wraps and complex entanglements, can be maintained when employing careful removal procedures. Any information that might be acquired from the knotted evidence could inform subsequent determinations and conclusions. Carefully preserved exhibits and recorded details may assist the analyser of knots and ligatures in establishing the tying sequence, the purpose of those knots, the tying habits and relative skill level displayed, and possibly the number of tiers. Case-specific issues, such as whether the knotted evidence points to homicide or suicide, may be clarified.
{"title":"The preservation and imaging of knotted exhibits","authors":"Robert C. Chisnall","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2022.2144015","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2022.2144015","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract The importance of well-preserved knots and ligatures, in conjunction with clear and unambiguous photographs and other recording techniques, is demonstrated using comparatively flawed and idealized images of mock exhibits. The identification of wends (working ends), stands (standing parts), severed ends, and unobstructed crossing points is critical. Further, determining the lengths of segments and the circumferences of loops, along with rope or cord diameters, can be of assistance during an analysis. Subtle details, such as the interrelationship of various wraps and complex entanglements, can be maintained when employing careful removal procedures. Any information that might be acquired from the knotted evidence could inform subsequent determinations and conclusions. Carefully preserved exhibits and recorded details may assist the analyser of knots and ligatures in establishing the tying sequence, the purpose of those knots, the tying habits and relative skill level displayed, and possibly the number of tiers. Case-specific issues, such as whether the knotted evidence points to homicide or suicide, may be clarified.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"56 1","pages":"143 - 160"},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2022-11-07","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"44672451","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2022-10-22DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2022.2135741
Britny A. Martlin, G. Anderson, L. Bell
Abstract Drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death globally, however, many individuals who lose their lives at sea are never recovered or identified. Along with the geographic challenges posed by the underwater environment, environmental conditions influence the degradation and preservation of submerged remains. Understanding how human bodies decompose in the marine environment can assist with more accurate estimations of the postmortem submersion interval, reconstruction of the postmortem history, and determination of the original deposition environment, as well as prepare recovery teams and their families for what to expect upon locating the deceased in a marine environment. In this review, previous research surrounding human remains in the marine environment is reviewed with a focus on the factors that will influence decomposition of the human body from initial submergence to skeletonization. Experimental research, retrospective analyses, and case studies are brought together in this paper to demonstrate the currently available knowledge on marine decomposition. It is suggested that further systematic research is necessary to create robust evidentiary standards to develop context-specific knowledge on which to base future forensic investigations and assist with the recovery and identification of submerged individuals.
{"title":"A review of human decomposition in marine environments","authors":"Britny A. Martlin, G. Anderson, L. Bell","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2022.2135741","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2022.2135741","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract Drowning is the third leading cause of accidental death globally, however, many individuals who lose their lives at sea are never recovered or identified. Along with the geographic challenges posed by the underwater environment, environmental conditions influence the degradation and preservation of submerged remains. Understanding how human bodies decompose in the marine environment can assist with more accurate estimations of the postmortem submersion interval, reconstruction of the postmortem history, and determination of the original deposition environment, as well as prepare recovery teams and their families for what to expect upon locating the deceased in a marine environment. In this review, previous research surrounding human remains in the marine environment is reviewed with a focus on the factors that will influence decomposition of the human body from initial submergence to skeletonization. Experimental research, retrospective analyses, and case studies are brought together in this paper to demonstrate the currently available knowledge on marine decomposition. It is suggested that further systematic research is necessary to create robust evidentiary standards to develop context-specific knowledge on which to base future forensic investigations and assist with the recovery and identification of submerged individuals.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"56 1","pages":"92 - 121"},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2022-10-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"49509267","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2022-08-20DOI: 10.1080/00085030.2022.2104562
Theodore E. Milner, G. Desmoulin
Abstract Computer-generated models have revolutionized how reconstructions of violent events, such as police use of force, are both performed and visualized. Yet, many experts in the legal and forensic disciplines do not understand them at a level required to use them effectively or create credible arguments supporting their findings. Simply put, models are a simplification of reality. Hence, models permit human programmers to specify the simplified behavior of a system. Since model parameters dictate the system's behavior, the programmer must document and provide justification for the selection of model parameters. The model structure, together with the selected parameters, form the backbone supporting the forensic investigator’s conclusions. This paper will begin with an overview of the usefulness of models in forensic investigations and follow with an example of how a model is constructed and applied in use of force cases. The selected cases are particularly relevant to incidents commonly encountered in law enforcement, frequently leading to litigation.
{"title":"Modeling human movement and mechanics: thoracic cage","authors":"Theodore E. Milner, G. Desmoulin","doi":"10.1080/00085030.2022.2104562","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1080/00085030.2022.2104562","url":null,"abstract":"Abstract Computer-generated models have revolutionized how reconstructions of violent events, such as police use of force, are both performed and visualized. Yet, many experts in the legal and forensic disciplines do not understand them at a level required to use them effectively or create credible arguments supporting their findings. Simply put, models are a simplification of reality. Hence, models permit human programmers to specify the simplified behavior of a system. Since model parameters dictate the system's behavior, the programmer must document and provide justification for the selection of model parameters. The model structure, together with the selected parameters, form the backbone supporting the forensic investigator’s conclusions. This paper will begin with an overview of the usefulness of models in forensic investigations and follow with an example of how a model is constructed and applied in use of force cases. The selected cases are particularly relevant to incidents commonly encountered in law enforcement, frequently leading to litigation.","PeriodicalId":44383,"journal":{"name":"Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal","volume":"56 1","pages":"84 - 91"},"PeriodicalIF":0.4,"publicationDate":"2022-08-20","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"43426762","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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