Forensic discrimination of match heads by elemental analysis with inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry

In arson and bombing cases, matches are often used as the ignition method. We have investigated the use of elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry to discriminate match heads used in arson cases. Six elements, magnesium, aluminum, calcium, iron, zinc, and barium, in match heads were detected after the match heads were dissolved in HNO3, and these elements were quantified in 8 wood stick matches and 5 paper stick matches by means of calibration curves prepared from standard sample solutions. Using this method, we were able to distinguish all the matches from one another both before and after combustion. The method has the potential to be very useful for resolving arson cases.     

Forensic medical examination of clinical and biomechanical changes in mechanical injuries of the cervical spine ligaments

Posttraumatic alterations in the cervical spine ligaments were studied clinically and psychologically in the victims with mechanical injuries of the musculoligamentous system of the cervical spine. A clinical course of the traumatic process and biomechanical musculoligamentous alterations, development and severity of mental disorders were established. These characteristics should be taken into consideration in forensic medical evaluation of health deterioration.     

Assessment of unfavorable outcomes of dental care provoked by the patient

Some causes of ineffective dental care because of the patient's negligence were analyzed. In 16 cases the patients ignored recommendations of the dentist and missed visits to the doctor. As a result, the patients developed complications leading to esthetic dissatisfaction, prolonged treatment, repeated prosthetic management.     

You have the right not to have a hearing: an evaluation of the impact of fully advising civilly committed patients on their rights

There have long been calls for the reduction of coercion in treating civilly committed psychiatric patients. The present study assessed whether a minor procedural change intended to reduce the adversarial nature of the treatment process would have a positive impact. Results suggested that the change in procedure had a positive effect for the most direct outcome variables but results were more mixed for the indirect outcome variables. Nonetheless, overall indications were that the change of procedure affected patient outcome.     

5-(4-Nitrophenyl)-2,4-pentadien-1-al (NPPD) used as a tracer by nonscientists at a simulated crime scene

5-(4-Nitrophenyl)-2,4-pentadien-1-al (NPPD) was used as a tracer by nonscientists at a simulated crime scene. A card with both a plastic-coated smooth surface and a porous cellulose matrix paper surface was coated with a methanol solution containing 0.5mg/mL of NPPD. The card was touched with bare fingers and fingers covered by a cotton glove. A color-change protocol was then used to detect the presence of NPPD. The bare fingers or the fingers of gloves were swabbed with a cotton swab, or the parts of the glove that had touched the card were cut out. The swabs or the cloth pieces were dipped in methanol, a 0.1% methanol solution of naphthoresorcinol was added, and then concentrated hydrochloric acid was added. The observation of a red color at this point indicated a positive test. NPPD was easily observed in the experiments involving bare fingers, but no color change was observed from the swabbing of the cotton glove. However, when the cloth pieces cut from the fingers of the glove were subjected to the test, the red color was observed. In an attempt to enhance the sensitivity of the test, the volumes of the reagent solutions were reduced, but no improvement in sensitivity was obtained.     

Fatal retropleural hematoma complicating internal jugular vein catheterization. A case report

This report describes a case of fatal retropleural hematoma complicating percutaneous insertion of a central vein catheter. The patient was a 55-year-old female undergoing surgery for severe rheumatic mitral valve disease. Factors responsible for this catastrophic incident are the anticoagulation of the patient, the edematous state of the soft tissues, and the multiple punctures of the wall of the jugular vein.