DNA analysis in the forensic medical examination of material evidence: the problem of individualization

The criterion of sufficiency of genetic information for establishing identity should be accepted for adequate realization of the potentialities of DNA identification as a legal proof. Attaining of this point in expert evaluations will be considered sufficient for formulation of a categorical conclusion on the source of the object. The key point in the choice of this criterion should be clear-cut definition of the identification task; analysis of equivalent probability values is suggested as its technology. The choice and regulation of the reference value should be carried out at an inter-departmental level.     

Forensic medical evaluation of the morphological alterations of the liver in drug abuse

Application of a morphometric method for investigation of chronic virus hepatitis in drug addicts and persons rejecting drug abuse is described. Chronic hepatitis in narcomania runs with frequent formation of lymphoid follicules in the portal tracts, relatively inactive portal hepatitis in marked lobular component of inflammation, pronounced fibrosis and early formation of micronodular hepatic cirrhosis, proliferation of biliary ducts, high neutrophil, eosinophil and macrophage content in the infiltrate, accumulation of macrophages in the portal tracts by granuloma type. These criteria are recommended for diagnosis of narcomania by morphological findings.     

The role of cytomedins in establishing the sequence of causing injuries

The results of investigation of biological activity of information molecules, i.e. cytomedines, obtained from injuries by using the method of acetous extraction (V.G. Morozov, V. Kh. Havinson, 1981) are presented in the experimental manner and on the basis of practical materials. The sequence of formation of hemorrhages and injuries was demonstrated accurately enough by using the biological activity of extracted cytomedines.     

Opiate poisoning (an analysis of section material)

Section specimens from subjects dead from narcotic poisoning in 1998-1999 are analyzed. The results indicate that narcotic poisonings were primarily due to opiates or their combinations with other drugs (primarily ethanol). The ratio of male to female mortality was 3:1. Death after narcotic poisoning occurs at home in the majority of cases. The concentration of morphine/heroin in the blood and urine of victims varied within a very wide range. Acute renal failure, myoglobulinuremic nephrosis, and compression syndrome are not typical of acute narcotic poisoning. Use of immunotest for urinary morphine-heroin deserves further investigation.