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Mass disasters often claim many lives, and it is the response of the disaster victim identification team to recover and identify the deceased effectively in order to bring closure to the families and to reduce the time and cost of the operation. However, the role of forensic anthropologists in mass disasters is not often recognized during the early phase of disaster and results in delays in identification. The main objective of this dissertation is to analyse the publication related to the role of forensic anthropologists in mass disasters. Articles were searched from the Scopus database and analysed through R script with biblioshiny and Microsoft Excel. A total of 139 articles were analysed for publication trends. The results include analysis of publication, citation, authors’ affiliation, authors’ collaboration and authors’ production over time from 1989 to 2024. Overall, the results revealed significant clusters of publications over the years, suggesting a gradual upward trend in mass disaster research. The increasing trend of publications indicates the rise in recognition of forensic anthropologists’ contribution to mass disasters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Human Identification based on dental evidence cannot be accomplished if antemortem dental records are unavailable or of poor quality. The involvement of the orthodontist in mass disaster victim identification processes may be crucial in relation to the amount and quality of the records which can be obtained before, during, and following the treatment. Aim: The aim of the study is the description of the contribution of the findings drawn from orthodontic records to the identification of victims of mass disasters who had received an orthodontic treatment, through the presentation of two cases. The first case involves the identification of a child victim of a plane crash and the second case involves the identification of two identical twin girls who died in a fire. In both cases, the identification was based on the findings obtained from the ante-mortem records provided by the orthodontist. Conclusions: The orthodontists apply customized orthodontic appliances and keep a comprehensive file of images, casts, radiographs, and other records in their practice. As a result, they can make a substantial contribution to the identification of young people or even adult victims of mass disasters in any case in which the authorities make a request. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In October 2022, the Centre for Ethics of Yenepoya University hosted a national workshop entitled: "Respect for human dignity of the unidentified dead from mass disasters and other violence: strategies for the ethical management of biological samples and personal data". The aim was to explore and share experience and ethical considerations regarding the management and identification of human remains in the event of disasters, with the purpose to arrive at a general consensus about what constitutes the ethical foundation of the management of unidentified human remains in forensic practice and, in particular, contextualizing this in India. The main ethical consideration that emerged was tracing the missing and identifying the dead are crucial to maintaining or restoring basic human rights and responsible relief activities. Identification is not only an organizational and scientific achievement but, regardless of circumstances, also necessarily and always an activity with significant political, epistemic, and philosophical relevance and consequence. In India, it could be important to consider new legal provisions for the management of human samples so that this would provide a starting point for the treatment of human remains managed for forensic purposes with uniformity in the country. Another important step in which governments should take part regards the involvement and education of the general public to develop their interest in this important goal. In the field of forensic anthropology, artificial intelligence can support, through the use of algorithms, the decision-making process that leads to the identification of the victim or its remains. Furthermore, they can be used to extract new knowledge from huge databases and shorten identification through computer automation of data binding activities. Applying artificial intelligence tools in forensic sciences to collect new information from massive datasets to enhance knowledge, and reduce human subjectivity and errors, provides a greater scientific basis that could improve the strength of the evidence and support the admissibility of expert evidence. In light of the general lack of national/international guidance about ethical oversight for identification and care of human remains, the fact that regulations are frequently not adequate to govern ethical aspects, we hope that an internationally recognized body should develop such guidance in collaboration with relevant organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rise of mass fatalities and disasters, access to mass fatality and disaster planning trainings and resources available to medical examiners and coroners (MECs) in the United States should be reviewed. This paper provides a necessary update on the extent of access to these resources by analyzing data from the 2018 Census for Medical Examiner and Coroner Offices (CMEC). Results show that a high percentage of respondents have access to mass fatality and disaster planning trainings/resources; however, the access is disproportionate. Respondents in the Midwest and South—and those with smaller populations—have less access to resources, while agencies with larger budgets and more full-time staff have more access to resources. This paper discusses potential contributing factors for these disparities, but the data only begin to elucidate gaps in access to mass fatality and disaster planning trainings/resources for MECs and where further research should be conducted.

Background: Identification of an individual becomes essential in a dead body more than when he is alive. Identity becomes a problem in a dead person when the body is decomposed, mutilated, in skeletal remains or in mass causality death. The foremost essential thing in medico legal cases, becomes identity of the dead, rather than opinion about the cause of death, time since death or manner of death. The aim of this study was to arrive at the regression formula for assessing the age of the dead, based on the number of osteons in the sternal rib bone. Methods: The study involved 41 sternal ribs taken from 20 to 50 years old persons from the south Indian population at Institute of Forensic Medicine Department Madras Medical College. After autopsy a portion of rib bone was removed from the shaft of the fourth sternal rib near their anterior ends. A slide from the bone section was placed in the light microscope to study the number of osteons in full thickness of the compact bone of the rib. Result & Conclusion: In this study, age was plotted in the X-axis and the number of osteons were plotted in the Y - axis. A correlation coefficient (r) is derived. It summarizes the significance in the relationship of two variables. This study illustrates the estimation of age at death by counting the number of osteons in the rib bone from the age group of 20 to 48 years. It was proved that the number of osteons increases with age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many journalism students cover stories about tragedy and violence (trauma). Yet few journalism schools offer trauma training despite growing agreement among educators that early journalists need to learn about the impact of reporting trauma on victims, the community, and the journalists' themselves. This contrast is puzzling. This study aimed to identify what trauma-related topics are valued and which are taught. First, 156 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) members completed a survey rating the importance and extent of course coverage of self-care, trauma-informed interviewing, trauma's impact on the community, and best trauma community reporting practices. The commonly deemed highly valued topics include ethics of accuracy, sensitivity, respect for survivors, and privacy rights. Self-care was deemed important but often not covered. Qualitative interviews provided context on pedagogical techniques, experiences, and barriers to teaching trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ciência da Informação is the property of Instituto Brasileiro de Informacao em Ciencia e Tecnologia (IBICT) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This paper examines how genetic profiling came to interact with mass disaster management and memory politics in South Korea from the late 1980s to the early 2000s. It pays particular attention to the parallel emergence of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) governance and the politicization of modern and contemporary Korean history, including not only Japanese colonialism and Korean War crimes but also the South Korean state-led massacres, the Jeju Uprising of 1947-1954 and the Gwangju Uprising of 1980. I argue that genetic profiling, which had only recently been integrated into DVI governance, entered the human rights field when the concept of victim identification in South Korea was reconfigured to include victims of war crimes and state violence in the late 1990s. Beginning in the late 1990s, forensic scientists who had introduced and used genetic profiling for DVI activities became involved in identifying these newly integrated types of victims and became part of local reconciliation projects in the early 2000s. In this way, genetic profiling became intertwined with human rights activities, contributing to transitional justice and reconciliation. However, it also resulted in the geneticization of both disaster victims and state violence identification processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to generate a standard formula for estimating sex in the South Indian population from hand anthropometric measurements. Sex is one most important and foremost criteria in establishing the identity of an individual. The present study comprised a sample of 300 healthy individuals (150 males and 150 females). The databases for Hand Length, Hand Breadth and Hand index were analysed using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences, Version 20.0) computer software. The issue of sex discrimination can be very complicated in cases of intersex, bodies in an advanced state of putrefaction, mutilated & fragmentary remains in which it is common to recover dismembered & peripheral parts of the body. It was realized that anthropometric measurements of the hand have been a very useful tool in sexual identification. Hand length and hand breadth show statistically significant male - female differences at p < 0.0001. Hand Breadth was found as best predictor of sex in comparison with hand length. Sectioning point confirms that cut-off point below and equal to 44 is suggestive of male hand whereas those above 44 were considered as female hand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Gender identification from the skeletal remains is an important part and procedure of forensic sciences. In forensic investigations the tooth especially canine gives excellent evidence in determining the gender because of many physical characters of it. Sexual dimorphism of mandibular canine provides an immense usage in forensic investigation. The aim of the study was to assess the dimensions of mandibular canines, as an adjunctive tool in determination of gender and dimorphism pertaining to the age group of 21-32 years. Materials and Methods The study was performed on 80 subjects in general population (40 males and 40 females). Following parameters were considered in the study; mesiodistal width of right and left mandibular canine, intercanine arch width and right and left MCI. All the measurements were taken on dental casts and tabulated for statistical analysis. Results Mesiodistal dimension and intercanine values were utilised to determine the mean for the right and left mandibular canine. Assessment of the Standard Mandibular canine index showed more sexual dimorphism with right mandibular canine. Summary and Conclusions The accuracy of determining gender using the mesiodistal parameter of mandibular canine turns out to be satisfactory and justifies usage as tool in forensic sciences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of homicides do not occur in mass disasters but are often solitary events. This enables medicolegal investigations to be targeted around the features of a specific case. Mass disasters may, however, result in a large numbers of bodies being brought in over relatively short periods of time. Such disasters may also occur in isolated locations with limited resources and facilities resulting in full autopsies not being undertaken, with faster processing of cases than is usual. For this reason it is possible that injuries due to inflicted trauma may not always be identified. Given the varied circumstances of mass disasters, ranging from the London Blitz of WWII to the 2004 South East Asian tsunami, the possibility of concealed homicides should always be considered., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Introduction: The basic essence of forensic odontology involves comparing a person's ante mortem and postmortem data in order to identify them and solve disputes. Collection of ante mortem data is the most difficult task faced by the forensic odontologist in a country like India where the practice of maintaining dental case record by practitioners is not customary. Hence, we have thought of a novel approach that helps in collecting ante mortem dental data of the patients whenever they visit a dental clinic and uploading the same on a centralized website by linking the data to a nationalized identity proof like Aadhaar card of the patient. Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to propose a universal odontogram that must be linked to a nationalized identity proof like the Aadhaar card of a person that can be used in future to collect antemortem data from all patients who visit the dental clinics and hospitals. Material and Methods: A questionnaire comprising of 20 questions was prepared in order to know the views of 304 subjects including dental under graduate students, post graduate students and dental practitioners or academicians on proposing a compulsory universal odontogram and linking it with Aadhaar card, the various constituents of the odontogram, and the need for training the dentists in collection of antemortem data. Results: 16 out of 20 questions had a significant p value indicating that this approach of creating antemortem data is plausible and logical. Discussion: Till date, in India there is no single registry for maintaining dental records. Not just in forensics but dental records also are first line of defense for the dentist in general. As the Aadhaar card is linked with the biometrics, it can easily be retrieved and utilized under situations of disputes following which dental records can be matched [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current international experience has shown the vulnerability of health-care systems of developed nations, and of developing nations such as India, to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 pandemic is a disaster with mass casualties. International experience has revealed that, even in the countries where mass disasters are less frequent and not involved in conflicts, they are overwhelmed with COVID-19 deaths. Although, in the current scenario with fewer deaths, India's health-care system can handle the situation of COVID-19 but should be prepared for the worst in terms of appropriate management, and adequate infection prevention measures including handling the dead without hampering the dignity of the deceased and of the surviving family. Before any crisis overwhelms responders and resources, emergency response plans should be established and activated to ensure the reliable identification and documentation of the dead. The current review was carried out to recommend the proper management of dead bodies in the COVID-19 mass disaster with a particular focus on resource-poor countries, such as India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 28 September 2018, an earthquake hit Central Celebes, triggering a tsunami, liquefaction and a landslide. There were approximately 2,256 victims and 1,309 people remain missing. The dry tropical climate combined with seawater exposure made bodies enter a putrefaction state rapidly, and visual identification was not possible. Obtaining any dental antemortem data was almost impossible due to the flood and earthquake destroying most of the healthcare building. Hence, a dental profiling procedure was conducted. Dental charting and age estimation were carried out and photographs were taken. Dental charting and photographs were done in line with the Interpol guide's standards. Performing a multiple dental age estimation method was not feasible. Clinical age estimation methods were mandatory due to their reliability and short time consumption for Palu victim identification. In children and sub-adult dental age estimation, gingival and alveolar clinical eruption helped to determine their approximate dental age. In adults, root translucency was measured using the American Board of Forensic Odontologists' (ABFO) No. 2 scale with the Bang and Ramm (1970) method. Dental age estimation with multiple measurement parameters or radiographs was not preferable during this mass disaster due to their time consumption and the overwhelming number of dead bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objective The advent of new technologies has made it possible to explore alternative ventilator manufacturing to meet the worldwide shortfall for mechanical ventilators especially in pandemics. We describe a method using rapid prototyping technologies to create an electro-mechanical ventilator in a cost effective, timely manner and provide results of testing using an in vitro–in vivo testing model. Results Rapid prototyping technologies (3D printing and 2D cutting) were used to create a modular ventilator. The artificial manual breathing unit (AMBU) bag connected to wall oxygen source using a flow meter was used as air reservoir. Controlled variables include respiratory rate, tidal volume and inspiratory: expiratory (I:E) ratio. In vitro testing and In vivo testing in the pig model demonstrated comparable mechanical efficiency of the test ventilator to that of standard ventilator but showed the material limits of 3D printed gears. Improved gear design resulted in better ventilator durability whilst reducing manufacturing time (

Purpose: Explosion-related deaths are uncommon events which require expertise and confidence so that an appropriate death investigation can be performed. The present study aims to provide a detailed forensic analysis of the issues and implications arising in the event of an explosion. Methods: A retrospective review of casualty data was conducted on electronic literature databases. Cases concerning deadly explosions registered at the Milan Institute of Legal Medicine were examined and analyzed altogether. Results: Explosions may involve closed or open systems. A security assessment of the site is always necessary. Alterations of the site due to rescue procedures can occur; thus, on-site forensic investigation should be adapted to the environment. Then, a study protocol based on autopsy procedures is presented. Application of the postmortem radiology enforces forensic procedures both for the analysis of blast injuries and skeleton fractures, and for identification purposes. Blast injuries typically cause lacerations of the lungs, intestine and major vessels; moreover, hyoid fractures can be documented. Histopathology may help to define blast injuries effectively. Forensic chemistry, toxicology and ballistics provide useful investigative evidence as well as anthropology and genetics. Different forensic topics regarding explosions are discussed through five possible scenarios that forensic pathologists may come across. Scenarios include self-inflicted explosion deaths, domestic explosions, work-related explosions, terrorist events, and explosions caused by accidents involving heavy vehicles. Conclusion: The scenarios presented offer a useful instrument to avoid misinterpretations and evaluation errors. Procedural notes and technical aspects are provided to the readers, with an insight on collaboration with other forensic experts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic profiling is a standard procedure for human identification i.e. in criminal cases and mass disasters, and has been proven to be an important part in the process in the repatriation of victims to their relatives. In the event of a catastrophe whether it be a natural disaster, terror attack or accident, fatalities of many nationalities may be a consequence and international collaboration becomes necessary. Current DNA techniques used on a routine basis at forensic laboratories world-wide are very useful, and results reported from different labs are compared making it possible to be matched in order to declare the identification of a victim. Statistical calculations of possibilities of a random match are achievable since population data from many parts of the world is available. However, decomposition and degradation of the remains are not uncommon in the aftermath of a catastrophe and hence it may be difficult to retrieve detailed DNA profiles from such samples. Massive parallel sequencing (MPS) is a technique capable of producing a vast amount of DNA sequence data in a high through-put manner, and panels of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers allow the amplification of small DNA fragments, often seen in compromised samples. Here, we report the results from a set of ten samples from missing person identification cases, analyzed with a MPS based method comprising 131 SNP markers and compared with direct reference material or buccal swab samples collected from relatives of the deceased. We assess the weight of evidence of a match by statistical calculation. Furthermore, we compare results reported on different platforms and using different SNP panels, and conclude that more work has to be done if results from missing person identification cases analyzed on MPS with SNP panels at different laboratories are to be fully reliable and thus comparable.

Introduction: In today's world, with increasing homicides and mass disasters, advanced identification methods are the need of the hour. Human identification is easily possible with skeletal remains, especially teeth, when soft tissue analysis is not reliable. The human tooth is considered as the most reliable evidence in a decomposed body. Enamel formation is a dynamic process. Enamel rods/prisms are deposited in an undulating, intertwining path. These rods reflect as rod ends on the outer surface of enamel and hence form a specific pattern. These patterns are referred to as rod end patterns or "Tooth Prints" and the study of enamel rod end patterns as "Ameloglyphics ". These patterns are unique to an individual tooth of same individual and different individuals and an analogy to fingerprint. Aims and Objectives: To study and analyze the tooth print patterns of different individuals and to determine if there is any difference in the rod end patterns in males and females. Materials and Methods: 30 maxillary 1st premolars extracted for the purpose of orthodontic treatment were used for the study. A representative area on the labial aspect was etched using 37% orthophosphoric acid etchant for 1min. A transparent cellophane tape was applied to the etched site for 20 mins, gently removed and placed on a glass slide. The glass slide was then observed under microscope and photographed. The images obtained were compared in Verifinger Standard SDK version 6.5 software. Results: Most predominant pattern observed among the study population was observed to be loop pattern. Among the other patterns observed were wavy branched and whorl open. 43 % of the population depicted a mixture of two viz: loop and wavy branched/whorl open. The tooth prints of males showed a tendency towards loop pattern. The verification with software revealed that no two patterns were identical. Conclusions: Tooth being the hardest substance in the body, will be preserved during mass disasters. Enamel rod end patterns are unique for each tooth in an individual and may be used as an adjunct with other methods for personal identification. This technique is simple, inexpensive and rapid and can be considered as adjunct ante-mortem dental records in the identification of mass disasters victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In 2016 midnight of summer a bomb blast occurred at ammunition depot Pulgaon. Blast was so severe that villagers in the radius of 10km witnessed the blast wave. It had killed 19 people which included Army officers, soldier & fire brigade men. As per police inquest & alleged history given by eyewitness,an authority of Central Ammunition Depot at Pulgaon noticed fire at ammunition store of the depot. For this reason emergency task force team of the depot got activated and few army personnel including fire brigade personnel rushed to the spot to control the fire. But unfortunately large amount of ammunition blasted suddenly as the fire spread inside the ammunition storage. Because of this 19 parsons were died on the spot & many were injured. To tackle the disaster civil authority were informed. When it was noted that total 19 personnel were died in the mishap, the District civil authority approached to Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Sevagram to send forensic medicine expert team to do spot Post Mortem (PM) examination. The main challenge before the forensic team was to establish the identity of the unidentified body apart from doing PM examination, so that the body can be handed over the kin as early as possible to end the uncertainty of their loved ones. Aims & Objective: Forensic casework was carried out with aim to study the pattern of injuries in the bomb blast cases, and to assess forensic management done in mass disaster. Material and Method: Study was carried out on 15 dead bodies involved in the bomb blast injury. It includes observation based on post mortem examination and assessment of forensic management done by our team. Result: Bomb blast injury includes complex of injuries like burn injury(100%), decapitation (33%), injury of internal abdominal organs (40%) & chest organs (80%), fracture of bones (46%), Amputation of limbs (33%), and external mechanical injuries like contusion, abrasions and lacerations (100%). Due to destructive injuries identity of the victim gets obscured (40%). Conclusion: Medicolegal postmortem, sample preservation and humanitarian action of establishing the identity of victims are the forensic management in bomb blast injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Rechtsmedizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Aim: This study aims to determine the understanding of forensic odontology among dental students. Objective: The objective of the study was to create awareness and determine the understanding of forensic odontology among dental students. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted based on questionnaire which consists of 10 questions through a web-linked application called SurveyMonkey. A convenient sample size of 100 consecutive dental students in Chennai participated in the study. Results: As an overall result, most of the participants are not aware of forensic odontology and its benefits in dentistry. Participants had lack of knowledge and awareness of this field. Conclusion: As a conclusion, the awareness of forensic odontology has to be improved among the dentists. Furthermore, they need to be trained on these grounds to help them aware and be highly knowledgeable in forensic odontology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Forensic odontology plays a pivotal part in victim recognition. Stable landmarks enable identification of the deceased when the remains are mutilated par recognition. In our study, we propose to employ intermolar width as an aid in gender determination.Aim: The aim of this study was to determine and correlate the intermolar width with either gender. Materials and Methods: The intermolar widths of 100 patients were determined. Impressions were made and the dental casts were evaluated using a Digital Vernier Caliper for intermolar width. Results: In our study, mean was calculated for intermolar arch width in maxillary arch for males and females. Student's t-test was employed to evaluate the means of the intermolar width in maxillary and mandibular arches for males and females. The mean was statistically significant with P< 0.05. Male and female maxillary arch intermolar width was 45.74 ± 2.09 and 47.44 ± 1.82, respectively, with t value of 5.98. Conclusion: From the results, we conclude that maxillary intermolar arch width can be employed as a tool in gender identification of individuals.

Genetic profiling is a standard procedure for human identification, i.e. in criminal cases and mass disasters, and has been proven to be an important part in the process in the repatriation of victims to their relatives. In the event of a catastrophe whether it be a natural disaster, terror attack or accident, fatalities of many nationalities may be a consequence and international collaboration becomes necessary. Current DNA techniques used on a routine basis at forensic laboratories world-wide are very useful, and results reported from different labs are compared, making it possible to be matched in order to declare the identification of a victim. Statistical calculations of possibilities of a random match are achievable since population data from many parts of the world are available. However, decomposition and degradation of the remains are not uncommon in the aftermath of a catastrophe and hence it may be difficult to retrieve detailed DNA profiles from such samples. Massive parallel sequencing (MPS) is a technique capable of producing a vast amount of DNA sequence data in a high-through put manner, and panels of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers allow the amplification of small DNA fragments, often seen in compromised samples. Here, we report the results from a set of 10 samples from missing person identification cases, analyzed with an MPS based method comprising 131 SNP markers and compared with direct reference material or buccal swab samples collected from relatives of the deceased. We assess the weight of evidence of a match by statistical calculation. Furthermore, we compare results reported on different platforms using different SNP panels, and conclude that more work has to be done if results from missing person identification cases analyzed on MPS with SNP panels at different laboratories are to be fully reliable and thus comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Filter papers have been used for many years in different applications of molecular biology and have been proven to be a stable way to store DNA waiting to be analyzed. Sampling of DNA on FTA (Flinders Technology Associates) cards is convenient and cost effective compared to alternative approaches involving DNA extractions and storage of DNA extracts. FTA cards are analyzed at many forensic laboratories, and the way to perform direct genetic profiling on buccal swab cards has developed into an almost industrial process. The possibility to include postmortem (PM) samples into an FTA-based workflow would facilitate and speed up the genetic identification process compared to conventional methods, both on a regular basis and in a mass casualty event. In this study, we investigated if FTA cards may be used to carry tissue DNA from deceased and present a high-quality DNA profile from the individual in order to be useful for the identification process. The study also aimed to investigate if a specific body tissue would be preferable, and if decomposed tissue is suitable at all to put on an FTA card in order to obtain a DNA profile. We have compared the quality of the DNA profiles acquired from postmortem tissue on FTA cards, with the results acquired with conventional methods from reference bone/muscle samples from the same individual. Several types of tissues have been tested from different identification cases and scenarios. We concluded that tissue cells from inner organs are suitable to put on FTA cards, and that the obtained DNA profiles have the potential to serve as PM data for identification purposes. In cases including compromised samples, however, it is recommended to keep the tissue sample as a backup if further DNA has to be extracted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Half a century has passed since the department for education and research on forensic odontology was established at dentistry-related universities in Japan in 1964. In order to meet the demands of society, the number of universities with a department of forensic odontology increased up until around 2005. In 2007, the Japanese Society of Forensic Dental Science was established, and then a series of reforms such as establishment of the Study Council on Death Cause Investigation in both the National Police Agency and the Cabinet Office of the Japanese government, cabinet decision of enactment and enforcement of new laws on death cause investigation, publication of an article on the Model Core Curriculum of Dental Education, publication of the results of a fact-finding survey on education and research on forensic odontology conducted by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, inclusion of questions about forensic odontology in the National Board Dental Examination, and compilation of a database on dental findings by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, proceeded in succession. We introduced the half century of forensic odontology in Japan in chronological order. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA analysis is a key method for the identification of human remains in mass disasters. Reference samples from relatives may be used to identify missing persons by kinship analysis. Different methods of applying the CODIS in disaster victim identification (DVI) were investigated. Two searches were evaluated: (i) relating family relatives to a pedigree tree (FPT) and (ii) relating unidentified human remains to a pedigree tree (UPT). A joint pedigree likelihood ratio (JPLR) and rank were calculated for each search. Both searches were similar in average JPLR and rank. In exceptional cases, namely the existence of a mutation different from the CODIS model, a nonbiological father, a mistake in STR, or incorrect profile association, the UPT search returned one true rank, whereas the FPT search returned no results. This paper suggests a novel strategy to overcome these limitations and increase efficiency in conducting identification of mass disaster victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Teeth may provide useful forensic evidence owing to features like uniqueness, stability and comparability. Moreover, the human dentition is heterodont, i.e. all the teeth have different morphology – incisors, canines, premolars and molars. There are sometimes deviations from normal morphology, such as the presence of extra teeth, variation in their shape and size eg the presence of an extra cusp, fractured crown/root, Carabelli's cusp, peg laterals, transpositions, fusion, etc. These differences can help forensic personnel identify bodies, especially where other methods of identification like facial features, fingerprints or DNA typing cannot yield satisfactory results as in cases of badly decomposed bodies, burnt remains, mass disasters, etc. Identification from dentition is based on the direct comparison of post-mortem dental profiles with ante-mortem dental records of the deceased. This article aims to review these developmental and morphological dental traits and their role in post-mortem identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: There are several established methods of victim identification. A novel yet time tested alternative would be based on evaluating the uniqueness of the mesiodistal dimensions ratio. This can be applied in treatment aspects too, as in prosthetic and orthodontic rehabilitations. Obtaining the ratios of tooth dimensions from individuals is less technique sensitive and maintaining digital records of mesiodistal dimensions is less laborious as compared to other methods. Aim: To evaluate the mesiodistal width of the maxillary anteriors, the ratio of mesiodistal width between each of the adjacent anterior teeth and to evaluate the uniqueness of the sets of values obtained and application in individual identification. Materials and Methods: Hundred individuals within the age group of 18 to 30 years were enrolled in the present study comprising of 50 males and 50 females. The mesiodistal dimensions of their maxillary anterior teeth were measured using a digital vernier caliper. The ratios between the adjacent teeth were calculated and descriptive and statistical analysis was done. Results: On analysis of the ratios of mesiodistal dimensions and their ratios between the adjacent maxillary anterior teeth, it was inferred that each and every individual did not possess a unique sequence of ratios as they differ only by a few decimals. On the basis of statistical evaluation between genders (M and F) using chi-square test, we arrived at the inference that there was no statistical difference of mesiodistal dimensions of the maxillary anterior teeth between the two genders, however individual tooth dimorphism was seen in relation to 11 and 21. Conclusion: Based on the obtained data and its analysis, it can be concluded that the mesiodistal dimensions of the teeth are not very unique as they differ only by a few decimals. However, a larger sample size should be evaluated to look for stable and consistent results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Complementary and integrative medicine provides safe, low-cost, effective treatments for conditions ranging from everyday stress to post-traumatic stress disorder. The evidence for herbs, nutrients and mind–body practices is growing, despite disproportionately small amounts of financial support compared with funding for expensive pharmaceuticals. The unsustainable cost of conventional treatments, the moral imperative to care for millions of uninsured and the impact of COVID-19 compel us to fully explore known and potential benefits of treatments being used by complementary and integrative practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal identification methods may not be efficient when bodies are decomposed, burned, in cases of mass disasters when soft tissue cannot provide reliable information or has been lost. Various methods currently employed in forensic odontology for personal identification include comparing with antemortem dental charts, rugoscopy, denture labeling, DNA analysis from dental pulp, bite mark analysis, etc., Recently, there is growing interest in the study of enamel rod end patterns. These enamel rod end patterns are termed as “Tooth prints” and the study of these prints is known as “Ameloglyphics” (amelo: Enamel, Glyphics: Carvings). This review encompasses about the basis of using enamel rod end patterns, methods of obtaining the patterns and further suggests these tooth prints as an analogy to finger print in personal identification in mass disasters.

This study explored the effects of the EMDR Integrative Group Treatment Protocol (EMDR-IGTP) on child survivors of the earthquakes that struck Umbria, a region of central Italy, on August 24th and on October 26th 2016. Three hundred and thirty-two children from the town of Norcia and nearby severely disrupted villages received 3 cycles of EMDR-IGTP. The Emotion Thermometers (ET-5) and the Children's Revised Impact of Event Scale (CRIES-13) were administered before (T0) and about 1 week after the conclusion of the third cycle (T3) of EMDR-IGTP. At T3, older children showed a reduction of distress and anger, whereas younger children reported an increase on these domains; moreover, older children reported a greater reduction of anxiety than younger ones. A greater reduction of distress, anxiety, and need for help was evidenced in females, whereas a greater improvement in depressive symptoms was evidenced in males. The effects of the EMDR-IGTP treatment on post-traumatic symptoms were particularly evident in older children, compared to younger ones, and marginally greater in females than in males; moreover, a greater improvement was found in children who had received a timelier intervention, than in those who received delayed treatment. These results provide further evidence for the utility of EMDR-IGTP in dealing with the extensive need for mental health services in mass disaster contexts. Also, these data highlight the importance of providing EMDR-IGTP in the immediate aftermath of a natural disaster, to contribute significantly in restoring adaptive psychological functioning in children, especially in older ones.

In October 2022, the Centre for Ethics of Yenepoya University hosted a national workshop entitled: "Respect for human dignity of the unidentified dead from mass disasters and other violence: strategies for the ethical management of biological samples and personal data". The aim was to explore and share experience and ethical considerations regarding the management and identification of human remains in the event of disasters, with the purpose to arrive at a general consensus about what constitutes the ethical foundation of the management of unidentified human remains in forensic practice and, in particular, contextualizing this in India. The main ethical consideration that emerged was tracing the missing and identifying the dead are crucial to maintaining or restoring basic human rights and responsible relief activities. Identification is not only an organizational and scientific achievement but, regardless of circumstances, also necessarily and always an activity with significant political, epistemic, and philosophical relevance and consequence. In India, it could be important to consider new legal provisions for the management of human samples so that this would provide a starting point for the treatment of human remains managed for forensic purposes with uniformity in the country. Another important step in which governments should take part regards the involvement and education of the general public to develop their interest in this important goal. In the field of forensic anthropology, artificial intelligence can support, through the use of algorithms, the decision-making process that leads to the identification of the victim or its remains. Furthermore, they can be used to extract new knowledge from huge databases and shorten identification through computer automation of data binding activities. Applying artificial intelligence tools in forensic sciences to collect new information from massive datasets to enhance knowledge, and reduce human subjectivity and errors, provides a greater scientific basis that could improve the strength of the evidence and support the admissibility of expert evidence. In light of the general lack of national/international guidance about ethical oversight for identification and care of human remains, the fact that regulations are frequently not adequate to govern ethical aspects, we hope that an internationally recognized body should develop such guidance in collaboration with relevant organizations., (© The Author(s) 2023. Published by OUP on behalf of the Academy of Forensic Science.)

The terrorist attack of July 14, 2016 in Nice (France) was a devastating event. A man voluntarily drove a truck into a crowd gathered for the fireworks display on the seaside "Promenade des Anglais," plowing pedestrians down over more than 2 km before being shot dead. At the time of this report, a total of 86 casualties and more than 1200 formal complaints for physical and psychological injuries have been recorded. The aim of this work is to describe the forensic management of this event and its immediate aftermath. This paper reaffirms the basic tenets of disaster management: a single place of work, teamwork in times of crisis, a single communication channel with families and the media, and the validation of the identifications by a multidisciplinary commission. This paper highlights other essential aspects of the organization of the forensic effort put in place after the Nice attack: the contribution of the police at the crime scene, the cooperation between the disaster victim identification (DVI) team, and the forensic pathologists at the morgue, applying the identification (ID) process to unconscious victims in the intensive care unit, the input of volunteers, and the logistics associated with the management of the aftermath of the event. All of the victims were positively identified within 4 and a half days. For the first time in such a paper, the central role of medical students in the immediate aftermath of the disaster is outlined. The need to address the possible psychological trauma of the non-medical and even the medical staff taking part in the forensic effort is also reaffirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract During the Second World War, on 24th March 1944, 335 Italians were massacred near Rome by the occupying forces of Nazi Germany. Four months later forensic examination led to the identification of 323 out of 335 victims. After approximately 60 years, the identification of the remaining unidentified twelve victims began with anthropological and genetic analysis carried out by a team of Italian forensic experts. Anthropological analysis was performed in field in order to confirm the sex of each victim and verify the presence of only one individual in each grave for a correct sampling. Selected bone fragments for each individual were then collected and transferred to the laboratory for genetic analysis. Although the anthropological ante mortem information was limited, morphological and metrical data was collected for a possible future identification of the victims. Subsequently, the typing of autosomal loci, Y-STR and mtDNA D-loop region of all bone and available reference samples was conducted. LR and cumulative LRs obtained from autosomal STR and Y-STR results confirmed the alleged relationship between three victims and their relatives with values over 104 (one sample) and 106 (two samples). Therefore, the genetic analysis offered the families the possibility of replacing the number of the grave with the name of the victim. Highlights • During the Second World War, 335 civilians and Italian military personnel were killed near Roma. • Some months later forensic examination led to the identification of 323 out of 335 victims. • After about 60 years, the identification of the unidentified twelve victims began with anthropological and genetic analysis. • The analyses offered the families the possibility of replacing the number of three graves with the name of the martyr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the blood transfusion support requirements in mass disaster and trauma situations. Study Design: Cross-sectional observational study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Combined Military Hospital Quetta from, Jan 2013 to Dec 2015. Material and Methods: Nature of injuries, triage details, details of surgical procedures and duration of hospital stay were noted. Data was analyzed with respect to cross match to transfusion ratio and the number of units of each component transfused. Patients requiring massive transfusion and any associated complications were also studied. Results: A total of 2228 casualties were received during the study period, of these, males were 18 (75%) and 6 (25%) were females. Mean age was 29.7 years. 1636 (73.4%) casualties had sustained major injuries. Mean hospital stay was 6.31 days. Only 199 (12.2%) patients required blood transfusion with a mean of 2.9 units of RCC, 8.7 bags of FFP and 4.6 bags of platelets. Fifteen (7.5%) patients received massive transfusion. Following massive transfusion, one case of metabolic acidosis and two cases of coagulopathy were reported. Conclusion: Mass disasters and trauma casualties pose a serious challenge to any healthcare facility in general and the blood transfusion services in particular. Only a well-organized blood transfusion center and blood transfusion emergency preparedness can result in better patient care and outcome. Not all patients need transfusion and a delicate balance between demand and supply has to be maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In disaster victim identification (DVI), DNA profiling is considered to be one of the most reliable and efficient means to identify bodies or separated body parts. This requires a post mortem DNA sample, and an ante mortem DNA sample of the presumed victim or their biological relative(s). Usually the collection of an adequate ante mortem sample is technically simple, but the acquisition of a good quality post mortem sample under unfavourable DVI circumstances is complicated due to the variable degree of preservation of the human remains and the high risk of DNA (cross) contamination. This paper provides the community with an efficient method to collect post-mortem DNA samples from muscle, bone, bone marrow and teeth, with a minimal risk of contamination. Our method has been applied in a recent, challenging DVI operation (i.e. the identification of the 298 victims of the MH17 airplane crash in 2014). 98,2% of the collected PM samples provided the DVI team with highly informative DNA genotyping results without the risk of contamination and consequent mistyping the victim's DNA. Moreover, the method is easy, cheap and quick. This paper provides the DVI community with a step-wise instructions with recommendations for the type of tissue to be sampled and the site of excision (preferably the upper leg). Although initially designed for DVI purposes, the method is also suited for the identification of individual victims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mass disasters generally result in an elevated number of casualties that need identification. The primary identification methods listed by INTERPOL (DNA, fingerprint and forensic dentistry) have a very important role in helping and speeding up the victim identification process. The present study sought to report mass destruction cases found in the literature published from 2005 to 2015 that have used the primary human identification methods. This study has been done as a literature review using the keywords: disasters, natural disasters, disaster victims, and human identification in a total of 16 selected papers and 13 listed disasters. It has been concluded that the primary identification methods are capable and efficient to perform a safe and satisfactory identification of mass disasters victims, used both separately or in combination.

DNA collection from family members of the missing is a tenet for missing persons’ and mass fatality investigations. Procedures for consenting family members are disparate, depending on the context supporting the reason for sample collection. While guidelines and best practices have been developed for handling mass fatalities and for identification of the missing, these guidelines do not address standard consent practices for living family members of potential victims. We examined the relevant U.S. laws, international guidelines and best practices, sampled consent forms currently used for DNA collection of family members, and drafted model language for a consent form to communicate the required and recommended information. We modeled the consent form on biobank consenting practices and tested the consent language among students and the general population for constructive feedback and readability. We also asked respondents to consider the options for DNA collection and either hypothetically agree or disagree. The model language presented here highlights information important to relay in consent processes and can serve as a foundation for future consent practices in mass fatalities and missing persons’ investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geographic Information Science (GIScience) technology has been used to document, investigate, and predict patterns that may be of utility in both forensic academic research and applied practice. In examining spatial and temporal trends of the mass disaster that is occurring along the U.S.-Mexico border, other researchers have highlighted predictive patterns for search and recovery efforts as well as water station placement. The purpose of this paper is to use previously collected spatial data of migrant deaths from Arizona to address issues of data uncertainty and data accuracy that affect our understanding of this phenomenon, including local and federal policies that impact the U.S.-Mexico border. The main objective of our study was to explore how the locations of migrant deaths have varied over time. Our results confirm patterns such as a lack of relationship between Border Patrol apprehensions and migrant deaths, as well as highlight new patterns such as the increased positional accuracy of migrant deaths recorded closer to the border. This paper highlights the importance of using positionally accurate data to detect spatio-temporal trends in forensic investigations of mass disasters: without qualitative and quantitative information concerning the accuracy of the data collected, the reliability of the results obtained remains questionable. We conclude by providing a set of guidelines for standardizing the collection and documentation of migrant remains at the U.S.-Mexico border. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Personal identification methods may not be efficient when bodies are decomposed, burned, in cases of mass disasters when soft tissue cannot provide reliable information or has been lost. Various methods currently employed in forensic odontology for personal identification include comparing with antemortem dental charts, rugoscopy, denture labeling, DNA analysis from dental pulp, bite mark analysis, etc., Recently, there is growing interest in the study of enamel rod end patterns. These enamel rod end patterns are termed as "Tooth prints" and the study of these prints is known as "Ameloglyphics" (amelo: Enamel, Glyphics: Carvings). This review encompasses about the basis of using enamel rod end patterns, methods of obtaining the patterns and further suggests these tooth prints as an analogy to finger print in personal identification in mass disasters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On December 1st, 2014, the sinking of Oryong 501 occurred in the Bering Sea off the east coast of Russia. A total of 60 crew members, including 35 Indonesians, 13 Filipinos, 11 South Koreans and 1 Russian inspector were on board out of which only seven survived. Through an international rescue operation, the dead bodies of 27 were found and the remaining 26 crew are still missing. After transferring the dead bodies to the Busan Harbor in South Korea, the operation to identify the deceased began involving DVI teams from three countries: Korea, Indonesia and the Philippines. When a deep sea fishing boat sinks, it is very difficult to obtain antemortem data of the crew who had been on board for a long time. This is especially so if the crews are multinational. Further, the accuracy of the antemortem data provided by the families may be questionable, and the provided data is often not standardized. Despite the fact that the antemortem data were received in different formats, the identification process for the bodies of the 27 crew from the Oryong sinking was quickly completed through the cooperation among the three DVI teams. This case is an excellent example of how efficiently a DVI operation can be conducted in the Asia Pacific region. Issues raised during this operation should enable even better preparation for similar events in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palatal rugae refer to the ridges on the anterior part of the palatal mucosa, each side of the median palatal raphe and behind the incisive papilla. Various studies on different populations have reported unique rugal patterns within each population. Aim: To study, analyse and report the significant palatal rugae patterns among West Godavari District population and compare with the patterns reported in the literature, which can aid as an additional method of identification in cases of crime or mass disasters. Material and Methods: Pre–orthodontic casts of 100 samples (50 males and 50 females) were selected. The method of identification of the rugae pattern used was that of Thomas et al (1983) which includes the number, shape and unification patterns of rugae. The different types of rugae between males and females were statistically analyzed and compared with other population studies in the literature. Results: A statistically insignificant (p>0.05) higher mean primary rugae scores was found in males (7.48±2.45) while secondary (3.38±2.02) and tertiary (2.56±1.84) rugae were more among females. Both genders showed predominance in wavy (males = 4.82±1.91 and females = 4.74±1.98) type of distribution. Commonly observed pattern in the mode of unification was converging (58%) in males and diverging pattern (62%) among femaleswhich was statistically significant (p=0.04). Conclusions: The findings showed a specific rugae pattern in this group when compared to other populations reported in the literature. Palatal rugae patterns are definitely associated with regional variation and can aid as an additional tool in forensic identification procedures.

Forensic odontology is a sub-discipline of dental science which involves the relationship between dentistry and the law. The specialty of forensic odontology is applied in radiographic investigation, human bite marks analysis, anthropologic examination and during mass disasters. Besides the fact that radiographs require pretentious laboratory, it is still claimed to be a facile, rapid, non-invasive method of age identification in the deceased. The budding DNA technology has conquered the traditional procedures and currently being contemplated as chief investigating tool in revealing the hidden mysteries of victims and suspects, especially in hopeless circumstances. Forensic odontology has played a chief role in solving cold cases and proved to be strong evidence in the court of law. Systematic collection of dental records and preservation of the same would marshal the legal officials in identification of the deceased. To serve the forensic operation and legal authorities, dental professionals need to be familiar with the basics of forensic odontology, which would create a consciousness to preserve the dental data. The aim of this paper is to emphasize the vital applications of forensic odontology in medico-legal issues. Conjointly the recent advancements applied in forensic human identification have been updated. Keywords: bite marks; dental records; forensic identification; mass disaster; medico-legal issues. | PubMed

Automated dental identification system is computer-aided software for the postmortem identification of deceased individuals based on dental characteristics specifically radiographs. This system is receiving increased attention because of the large number of victims encountered in the mass disasters and it is 90% more time saving and accurate than the conventional radiographic methods. This technique is based on the intensity of the overall region of tooth image and therefore it does not necessitate the presence of sharp boundary between the teeth. It provides automated search and matching capabilities for digitized radiographs and photographic dental images and compares the teeth present in multiple digitized dental records in order to access their similarity. This paper highlights the functionality of its components and techniques used in realizing these components.