The possibilities for simulation in the expert assessment of the circumstances of the causes of head trauma

Some aspects of simulation experiments in forensic medicine are discussed, specifically those in studies of biomechanics and expert evaluation of the probable circumstances of a head injury caused by falling on a plane from a standing posture. Based on mathematical simulation and multifactorial analysis of physical parameters characterizing the process of falling (inertia, angular velocity, etc.), the authors prove the possibility of differentiating between spontaneous falling of a victim and falling caused by an outer force, and estimating the value of this force.     

The identification investigation of the material evidence of biological origin after multifactorial exposure

The possibility of investigating pieces of material evidence of biological origin after exposure to various factors is evaluated. The possibility of detecting proteins of liquid media of human organism by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide denatured gel is investigated. The method is intended for identification of biological material in a state of grave destruction. Methodology of such studies is proposed. The data indicate that the structural integrity and qualitative composition of the spectrum of main serum proteins are retained after combined exposure to damaging factors and complete destruction of blood cells.     

Morphological sign of cardiac ventricle fibrillation

An early sign of cardiac ventricle fibrillation is described: numerous surface cracks in the myocardial fibers. The formation of cracks is the initial stage of myocardial fiber fragmentation. The cracks are detected by polarization microscopy in the absence of fragmentation or in myocardial sites without focal fragmentation.     

Specific features of kidney injuries altered by disease

The degree of development of subcutaneous fat and muscles of the back, filling of the gastrointestinal tract, increase in intra-abdominal pressure, and pathological processes, specifically, cysts, hydronephrosis, tumors, pelvic stones, etc., play a significant role in the development of renal injuries. A case with a kidney rupture resultant from a slight trauma in a 19-year-old soldier is presented. Analysis of nephrectomy, review and intravenous excretory urography, and pathological examination of the removed kidney showed third-stage hydronephrosis. This diagnosis was significant for evaluation of the severity of corporal injuries and for determining the punishment for the guilty subject.     

The morphological characteristics of chronic subdural hematomas

Preparations of chronic subdural hematomas (CSH) obtained during surgery from 29 patients aged 19-50 years are studied. Histological sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin after van Gieson. Morphological criteria of CSH variants are defined, permitting forensic medical experts to make well-based conclusions on the nature (traumatic or not) of CSH (two types of capsules) and the time when it occurred.     

The expert assessment of the force of blows by blunt solid objects

The author distinguishes 4 degrees of strength of strikes inflicted with blunt hard objects. Intervals of strength expressed in newtons correspond to each of these degrees. The scheme is based on experimental data of many authors who determined the parameters of strength of strikes inducing certain injuries. Use of the proposed scheme will render objectiveness and reliability to conclusions of forensic medical experts.     

The advantages of establishing the species classification of blood and other biological objects by the IFR in a quantitative modification

A quantitative modification of immunofluorescent test (IFT) is described. It was used for species identification of blood stains on material evidence objects. This modification is 1000 times more sensitive than electrophoretic methods traditionally used for this purpose in forensic medicine. Computer processing of the results helps objectively and persuasively determine the species appurtenance of blood and other biological objects. Results of the test represented as histograms should be attached to forensic medical conclusions as proofs for the court.