Role Of Forensic Medicine Research Articles

A Cross-Sectional Study On Determination Of Age From Third Molar Tooth Eruption In The Population Of Telangana.

Age has got significant role in Forensic medicine. It helps in identification and correlates various civil and criminal related issues. A cross sectional study on age determination from eruption of third molar tooth was conducted at Malla Reddy Institute of Medical sciences Hyderabad Telangana for a period of one year in the age group between 18 years to 25 years. A total of 160 medical students were participated in which 80 males and 80 females were participated in the study. Each individual was examined for physical dental examination in each quadrant of the jaw, mere appearance of crown of the third molar tooth was considered as erupted. A space between the second molar tooth and the ramus of the mandible without any evidence of the crown of the 3rd molar tooth was considered as not erupted. Statistical results reveal 54.2% of the study population third molar teeth eruption was observed first in the lower left quadrant. 96.2% in male and 98.4% in female individuals third molar was erupted at 22 years of age and at 23 years third molar was completely erupted in all the quadrants of the jaw in both male and female population.

Post-mortem utility of Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) and Calcium Binding Protein B (S100B) for differentiating traumatic brain injury from other causes of death.

In forensic pathology, identifying causes of death in traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) devoid of observable signs presents a significant challenge. Post-mortem biochemistry plays a crucial role in forensic medicine, particularly in determining causes of death in TBIs that lack macroscopic or histopathological evidence. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of Neuron Specific Enolase (NSE) and S100 Calcium Binding Protein B (S100B) in post-mortem serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) as markers for TBI. The relationship of these biochemical markers with survival time and post-mortem interval was also studied. The study sample consisted of 63 cases each from the TBI and the Non-TBI (NTBI) group. The NTBI group comprised of deaths due to mechanical asphyxia, myocardial infarction and isolated trunk trauma. While serum S100B and CSF NSE emerged as a promising marker for TBI, CSF S100B failed to differentiate TBI from the other causes of death. The absence of an association between the level of markers and survival time or post-mortem interval in TBIs highlights the limitations of these biomarkers in such contexts. This study underscores the potential of biochemical markers like serum S100B and CSF NSE in identifying TBI deaths, aiding forensic diagnoses where there are evidentiary limitations in traditional methods. Further research exploring additional markers and body fluids could enhance diagnostic precision in forensic neuropathology.

Forensic medicine in (West-Bank) Palestine visions and obstacles

Forensic medicine in Palestine is a new branch of medicine compared with other medical specialties and is still at a nascent stage. Only 6 medical doctors specializing in forensic medicine are currently practicing in Palestine, including only one female specialist (the author). Palestine has adopted a system that combines clinical forensic medicine and forensic pathology. Forensic doctors can deal with both the living and the dead and deal with cases of physical and sexual assault, gender-based violence, and domestic violence.In different courts, such as civil, military, and shariah, Palestinian judicial decisions depend primarily on forensic medical reports and the testimonies that forensic doctors provide for the court to explain their reports. Forensic medicine has a significant role and crucial impact on achieving justice for victims of all types of abuse, either dead or alive. However, the role of forensic medicine in achieving justice for victims, and hence fighting and eradicating violence, is underestimated and not fully understood by the general population.This paper introduces to the reader the status of forensic medicine in Palestine, focusing on the challenges and obstacles faced by both the victims and forensic doctors. Meeting these challenges and overcoming obstacles is essential for fighting all types of violence, including violence against women in Palestinian society.The current provision of forensic medical services in Palestine is less than satisfactory, being considerably hampered by the lack of legislation and regulations.Palestine is in great need of continued international support for forensic medicine and forensic services. Two projects supported by the United Nations put the country on the road, but there are still many miles to go toward the aim.

Advancement and the existing landscape of forensic medicine in Africa: A comparison with developed countries.

This article explores the development and challenges of forensic medicine in Africa, comparing it to developed countries. It addresses limited resources, funding, and a shortage of trained professionals. The growth of forensic investigation capabilities and the challenges of funding and technology access are discussed. Training and education have improved, but disparities remain. Partnerships with developed countries and international organizations are crucial to bridge the gap. A comprehensive legal framework is important, but disparities exist among African countries. Harmonizing forensic laws would enhance cooperation. The role of forensic medicine in the criminal justice system is examined, emphasizing the need to build trust in forensic evidence. International collaboration and capacity building are key to advancing forensic medicine in Africa. Investments in infrastructure, funding, training, and legal frameworks are required. By leveraging partnerships, Africa can develop its forensic medicine capabilities for a fair and effective criminal justice system.

Artificial intelligence in dentistry: It’s applications, impact and challenges

In dentistry, artificial intelligence (AI) has shown great potential in improving diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care. AI algorithms have been developed to analyze dental images, such as radiographs and intraoral scans, aiding in the detection of dental caries, periodontal diseases, and oral lesions. These algorithms can provide more accurate and efficient diagnoses, reducing the reliance on human interpretation. AI has also been utilized in treatment planning and helping dentists to determine the optimal approach for procedures such as dental implant placement and orthodontic treatment, and recently, AI has also been playing a significant role in forensic medicine as well as in forensic odontology. In addition, AI-based chatbots and virtual assistants have been developed to provide patients with personalized oral health information and guidance. Despite the numerous advantages, challenges remain in implementing AI in dentistry, such as ensuring data privacy and addressing ethical concerns. Nevertheless, AI has the potential to revolutionize dentistry by improving diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient care, ultimately leading to better oral health outcomes. This review provides an overview of the current applications of AI and its influence on dental practice, along with future prospects.

Perlindungan Hukum Terhadap Anak Korban Tindak Pidana Pelecehan Seksual

This research analyzes the legal protection for child victims of sexual abuse in Indonesia. Using a normative approach and literature review, this study aims to understand the legal protection provided to child victims of sexual abuse, the factors influencing sexual abuse against children, and efforts to prevent such criminal acts. The research reveals that Indonesia has a responsibility to protect child victims of crimes. Law Number 35 of 2014 on Child Protection provides the basis for protection, including the rights of children, protection from violence and discrimination, and the fulfillment of their dignity. Special protection is given to child victims of sexual abuse through rehabilitation, protection of the victim's identity, safety guarantees for victim witnesses, and accessibility to case developments. Criminal punishment for perpetrators of child sexual abuse is regulated by laws and the Criminal Code. In handling cases of sexual abuse, the role of forensic medicine is crucial in gathering necessary evidence. The principle of diversion is also applied in handling cases involving juvenile perpetrators of sexual violence. Serious coordination among the police, prosecutors, and judges is required to eradicate sexual abuse crimes against children. In conclusion, this research presents an overview of the legal protection for child victims of sexual abuse in Indonesia. Ongoing efforts are being made to strengthen protection and prevent these crimes through inter-agency coordination and effective law enforcement

Computed Tomographic Evaluation of Mandibular Ramus for Gender Identification

Background: The ability to identify sex is essential for identification and plays a significant role in forensic medicine and medico legal investigations. Identification's first purpose is sex determination, which is followed by estimations of age, size, and ethnic population, all of which are influenced by the gender. When identifying morphologic characteristics for gender determination, gender analysis and estimate are carried out with almost 90% to 100% accuracy using a whole skeleton. On the other hand, partial or fragmented bones and badly injured bodies, such as in the case of a mass tragedy, might be challenging to analyse. The skull is the second-best marker for gender identification after the pelvis. However, as the mandible is the biggest bone of the skull, it may be crucial in circumstances when a whole skull is not recovered for gender identification. Objectives: To ascertain how computed tomography can be utilised to know a person's gender with the help of mandibular measurements. Methods: The study was done with the Siemens Somatom 16 slice CT machine. Patients who match the inclusion criteria and have received CT for a wide range of reasons will be considered. Various measurements such as Condylar height, Maximum ramus breadth, Minimum ramus breadth projective height of ramus, Coronoid height shall be measured. Data analysis must be done with SPSS 20. For comparisons between the right and left sides, the student t-test shall be applied. Results: 58 individuals between the ages of 18 and 35 (29 females, mean age, 26.3, 29 males, men age, 26.9 & overall mean for both sexes was 26.6 years). In the present study, mean score of five distinct mandibular parameters were calculated. All mandibular ramus variables on CT models were discovered to exhibit a statistically significant gender difference (p = 0.001). It was discovered that the mean condylar height was 64.5 mm in men and 59.56 mm in women, which was a significant (P = 0.001). It was noteworthy (P = 0.001) that whereas the mean maximal ramus width was 35.0 mm in females and 38.0 mm in men. Males and females had different mean values for the minimum ramus width, which were 31.3 mm and 28.8 mm, respectively (P = 0.001). Males and females had mean ramus projection height measurements of 52.38 mm and 47.91 mm, respectively. This difference was significant (P = 0.004). The mean coronoid height was 63.42 mm in men and 56.80 mm in women, which was significant (P = 0.001). 27 out of 29 female mandibular measures correctly identified the gender, with a prediction rate of 96.4%, and 27 out of 29 male mandibular measurements correctly identified the gender, with a prediction rate of 96.4%. The threshold for determining a per- son's sex. As a cut-off for predicting male sex, values over 62.8 mm for condylar height, 36.9 mm for maximum ramus height, 30.0 mm for lowest ramus height, 50.4 mm for projective ramus height, and 61.3 mm for coronoid height can be used. Conclusion: In forensic medicine, the assessment of mandible, particularly the ramus area, plays a crucial factor in determining gender. Future research should evaluate gender determination recommendations using various criteria in bigger sample sizes and across a range of age groups. Although there are differences in ramus measurements between both the genders, there are variations in measures between societies. Therefore, to accurately identify gender from skeletal remains, criteria that are unique to each population must be developed. We think the results of this study will be helpful to radiologists making diagnoses and surgeons working on the mandible and facial area. Keywords: Mandible, Determination of gender, Paranasal sinuses

Deaths in railways and role of forensic medicine

Deaths in the railway premises, tracks, train and other railway related properties are often accidental, suicidal and may at times homicidal in nature. To identify the cause of death and timely disbursement of justice to victims and their aggrieved families is the primary motive of the police, forensic services and the judicial system. The establishment of the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Government railway police (GRP) is for the protection of railway property and handling crime happening in it. Involvement of local police, forensic.There is a sharp decline in crime happening in railway properties in India (RPF shows a great decline in the number of cases since 2018 (1094684) to 2019 (949695). Government railway police (GRP) also reported Cases (Registered by GRP (IPC+SLL) which show sharp decline in crime since 2018 (107092) in 2019 (99381) but still there is great scope of integrating the existing law enforcing agencies along with forensic medicine in reducing the crime further in railways.

Role of forensic medicine in achieving criminal justice

Noting that the criminal justice system is concerned with the achievement of justice and restoring rights to their owners over the ages and times. Given the development that has taken place in the field of crime and the multiplicity of its forms and colors, and the difficulty of determining its merits by traditional means. Therefore specialists in various sciences have sought ways to solve thorny issues and invest that science to reduce and narrow crime in the service of justice and safeguard rights and freedoms. Since crime is an inevitable issue in different societies in keeping with human development and progress in different areas and levels, reducing it has been one of the major problems for States and individuals. Where states seek to reduce and mitigate their effects by providing security and safety to individuals and groups in order to preserve the safety of their lives, security for their lives and guarantee their right to life. So, specialists have developed more efficient alternatives to curbing crime and reducing its spread.

The Role of Forensic Medicine in Responding to Emergencies and New Major Epidemics.

In recent years, human beings are constantly facing the threat of emerging infectious diseases. Forensic technology plays a unique role in responding to the emergencies and new epidemics. In epidemic prevention and control, forensic partitioners can provide important clues for the identification of vector animal species and the traceability of pathogen regions based on non-human DNA testing technology. In epidemic-related judicial practice, forensic partitioners bear more and more evidence responsibilities in dealing with biosafety laws-related issues, such as improper handling of epidemics and vaccine safety issues, which require forensic evidence. In terms of pathogen tracing, forensic physical evidence examinations identify species and individuals through biological materials extracted from the scene of death and autopsy of infectious diseases, are expected to provide informative clues for epidemiological investigations and point out the direction for pathogen tracing. In addition, forensic pathological examination can provide an important pathophysiological basis for determining the cause of death and the mechanism of death through autopsy, also offer necessary scientific evidence for clarifying the epidemiological characteristics of the epidemic and predicting the development trend of the epidemic.

DNA quantification as a determinant factor of postmortem time interval in different models of death

The quality and quantity of DNA have a vital role in forensic medicine. As time elapsed since death of recovered body by drowning or submersion should be identified in homicidal or suicidal manner of death or animal sudden deaths. Sixty rats were used in this experiment in 3 models of natural death, drowning and submersion. The DNA quantity was determined by diphenylamine in the brain, heart and lungs. It was noticed that there was a correlation between reduction of DNA quantity and postmortem time interval in the natural model of death. While the submersion >freshwater drowning>saltwater drowning enhanced DNA degradation, especially between 24-48 hours after death. Brain DNA considers the most resistance for degradation than heart and lung. In conclusion, DNA concentration in tissues could correlate to the postmortem time interval in natural death and other models of deaths as drowning or submersion but with different rate of reduction of DNA quantity.

Saudi physicians’ perceptions of the validity of autopsy and its implications - Structural equation modeling

IntroductionAlthough autopsy plays a vital role in forensic medicine, the rates have been recently declining around the world. We surveyed all interns and physicians at our hospital to determine how Saudi physicians viewed autopsies with regard to the challenges, priorities, and requirements, and also how they felt about autopsy-based research and postmortem examination techniques. The results shed light on how these constructs affected the physician's perception of the implications of autopsy. MethodsWe prepared a cross-sectional study using a self-administered multiple-choice questionnaire distributed to interns and physicians at our institution. From a population of 596 physicians, we sampled 234. Structural equation modeling was used to assess 6 constructs and their 40 indicators. ResultsThe survey results demonstrated two main barriers for interns and physicians to perform autopsies: respect for the religious beliefs of the families of the deceased and respect for family mourning. ConclusionMeasures can be taken to improve autopsy rates, such as training of medical staff in communication and counselling, implementing a streamlined and stress-free process, and increasing public awareness of the benefits of autopsy through campaigns and educational programs. Among the many virtues of educating Saudi physicians and residents about the significance of increasing autopsy rates and familiarizing them with their procedures, developing professional competence among medico-legal experts cannot be overemphasized.

Infrared Spectroscopic Analysis of the Inorganic Components from Teeth Exposed to Psychotherapeutic Drugs

Teeth are unique and complex anatomical organs that can provide relevant data about a person's health, and play an important role in forensic medicine. Teeth are exposed to food, drinks, and the microbiota of the oral cavity; therefore, they have developed a high resistance to localized demineralization. Nevertheless, the continuous demineralization–remineralization cycle present in the oral environment can be influenced by stress, medication, mineralization agents, and other factors such as individual habits, especially diet. In this study, based on attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) spectra from tooth samples of 36 patients, several parameters were estimated: the crystallinity index (CI), the phosphate/amide I ratio, and the carbonate/phosphate ratio. In addition, in eight representative samples (six of the root of the tooth and two of the enamel area of the crown), additional characterization by X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was conducted. From the FTIR data, it was observed that the highest CI values were found in patients who smoked. Further, in both root and crown samples, the intensity of the absorption band corresponding to PO43- increased in patients undergoing treatment with psychotherapeutic drugs. On the other hand, the intensity of the absorption band of the amide I group decreased with medical treatment and with the patient's biological age. Moreover, it was found that the remineralization process was more active in enamel than in the root due to direct contact with saliva. Regarding the results obtained from the X-ray powder diffractograms, exposure to psychotherapeutic drugs affected the definition of the peaks corresponding to hydroxyapatite, both in the crown and root samples. Concerning SEM results, qualitative differences in the stratification process in demineralized surfaces were observed, and EDS analyses showed some differences in the Ca/P ratio between pathological samples and control ones, but without clear patterns. The above techniques, in particular ATR-FTIR, showed promise for the investigation of the effect of changes produced in the hydroxyapatite structure in teeth and, consequently, to determine possible strategies in the diagnostic protocol.

Type I Lip Pattern in at Least One Quadrant among First and Second-year Medical and Dental Students of a Medical College: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study.

The upper and lower lip consists of the numerous amounts of fine grooves. This pattern of grooves will be definite throughout the lifetime. The groove of the lip shows variations and play important role in forensic medicine and crime investigation. The objective of this study is to find out the prevalence of type I lip print in at least one lip quadrant among first- and second- year medical and dental students of a medical college. The study was conducted on 240 students of a medical college between November 2020- January 2021 after getting the ethical clearance from the Institutional Review Committee (reference no. KMC-IRC 0311202006). The convenient sampling was done. The patterns of the grooves of the lip were studied. The data was analysed with Statistical Package for the Social Sciences 20 version. Point estimate at 95% Confidence Interval was calculated along with frequency and percentage for binary data. Out of 240 students, type I lip pattern was seen in at least one quadrant in 190 (79.6%) (73.38-84.94 at 95% CI) students. One hundred and fifty-nine (66.3%) had type I pattern in the right upper quadrant, 160 (66.7%) in left upper quadrant, 181 (75.4%) in right lower quadrant, and 177 (73.8%) in left lower quadrant. Type Ia was maximum found in 115 (47.9%) and type Ib in 66 (27.5%) in lower left quadrant of lip. Our findings showed a higher prevalence of type I lip pattern than those reported by other national studies done among medical students.

Role of prosthodontist in forensic sciences – A review article

Forensic odontology has recently become an integral part of forensic science. Since, 100 years this science has been utilizing dental or oro-facial findings to aid in serving the judicial system. Dental identification holds an important role in the identification of remains after postmortem changes, traumatic tissue injury or lack of a fingerprint record. Forensic identification based on assessment of prosthodontic appliances and or prosthesis by methods such as of labeling of dentures and other prosthetic appliances could provide vital clues for victim identification. Other sources such as salivary sample collection from the prosthesis can provide a rich source of DNA collection. How, a prosthodontist can play a crucial role in forensic medicine by application of various modes that can aid in identification of a deceased individual is illustrated in this review article. Keywords: Forensic Odontology, Denture labeling, DNA matching, Rugoscopy, Forensic medicine

Awareness of Forensic Dentistry among Dental Practitioners

Background- Dental identification has proved its importance in identifying deceased individuals, andrecently it has evolved as a new ray of hope in assisting forensic medicine, but its importance and role inforensic medicine is still in a state of infancy in India. Very less institutions offers formal training in forensicodontology, with the lack of job opportunities for qualified forensic odontologists who have obtained degreesabroad.Materials and Methods-A cross?sectional study was conducted among 70 dental practitioners of Jaipur,Rajasthan. Data were collected with the help of a questionnaire (Based on Attitude, Knowledge and Practicecriteria.) Questionnaire used in study. Informed consents were obtained.Results-A total 70 dental practitioners responded to the questionnaire out of these 20% not maintain dentalrecords in their clinic, 77% maintained dental records, 3% participants did not answer the question.Conclusion- For an efficient forensic investigation, we need a dental team, comprising personnel from allbranches of dentistry, working in close association with experts from other branches of forensic science. Thegovernment has a social obligation to recover, identify and hand over the remains of a deceased person to therelatives and every effort must be made to achieve this.

PERAN ILMU KEDOTERAN FORENSIK DALAM PEMBUKTIAN TINDAK PIDANA PENGANIAYAAN

In proving a criminal case of persecution related to the body and human life, the role of forensic medicine is very important in helping law enforcers uncover a criminal act that has occurred. The fields of law and medicine cannot be separated in order to prove someone's wrongdoing, this is based on the fact that not all knowledge is controlled by judges. In this case a forensic doctor is able and can help unravel a mystery in the absence of evidence that can be a body or a part of a human body. Judges will not be able to know and understand whether a criminal act has occurred and whether the defendant before the trial has actually committed the crime and can be responsible for the incident, so it is necessary to know the extent to which the role of forensic medicine in proving cases in court.

The Role of Forensic Medicine in Disclosing Premediated Killers (Study of Decision No. 116/Pid.B/2019/PN.Bms)

Forensic medical science is a science that is used for legal purposes by providing scientific evidence that can be used in solving crimes, especially the crime of murder. This science studies the cause of death, identification, state of post-mortem corpses. This study will discuss the role of forensic medicine in uncovering the crime of premeditated murder in case no. 116/Pid.B/2019/PN.Bms. The research method used is normative juridical, which is carried out through a literature study that examines secondary data in legislation and other legal documents, research results, assessment results, other references and is equipped with interviews. This study concludes that forensic medicine plays an essential role in investigating the crime of premeditated murder in case no. 116/Pid.B/2019/PN.Bms because of the need to identify corpses that have become bones and charred, so how important it is that forensic medicine is poured into evidence in the letter category in the form of Visum et Repertum, which by police investigators is under Article 133 of the Criminal Procedure Code to be used as legal evidence in uncovering and seeking the material truth of a criminal act that occurred. Suggestions in this study include providing education to the public regarding the treatment of evidence and the crime scene to change the disclosure of cases. Keywords: Classification, Inheritance Certificate, Discrimination

Standard Operating Procedure for Postmortem Inspection in a Focus on Coronavirus Disease-19: The Korean Society for Legal Medicine

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a respiratory syndrome caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. It resulted in a worldwide pandemic, and spread through community transmission in the Republic of Korea (ROK). In the ROK, SARS-CoV-2 is categorized as a first-degree infectious disease of the legal communicable disease present. The Korean Society for Legal Medicine (KSLM) is the sole official academic association of forensic professionals in the ROK. As such, this society has played an important role in forensic medicine and science in the ROK. Therefore, KSLM suggests a standard operating procedure for the postmortem inspection in a focus on COVID-19. This article includes the background of this suggested standard operation procedure, basic principles for postmortem inspections of individuals suggested of having an infectious disease, and specific procedures according to the probability level of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Key Words: SARS-CoV-2 · Postmortem inspection · Standard operating procedure · Republic of Korea

Secondary Publication] Standard Operating Procedure for Post-mortem Inspection in a Focus on Coronavirus Disease-19: the Korean Society for Legal Medicine.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory syndrome caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and emerged in Wuhan, China, in late 2019. It resulted in a worldwide pandemic, and spread through community transmission in the Republic of Korea (ROK). In the ROK, SARS-CoV-2 is categorized as a first-degree infectious disease of the legal communicable disease present. The Korean Society for Legal Medicine (KSLM) is the sole official academic association of forensic professionals in the ROK. As such, this society has played an important role in forensic medicine and science in the ROK. Therefore, KSLM suggests a standard operating procedure for the postmortem inspection in a focus on COVID-19. This article includes the background of this suggested standard operation procedure, basic principles for postmortem inspections of individuals suggested of having an infectious disease, and specific procedures according to the probability level of SARS-CoV-2 infection.