Pmi estimation of human skeletal remains using different spectroscopy methods
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PMI Estimation of Human Skeletal Remains Using Different Spectroscopy Methods
Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) of human skeletal remains is a critical task in forensic science. Various spectroscopy methods have been explored to improve the accuracy and reliability of PMI estimation. This article synthesizes the findings from multiple research studies on the use of different spectroscopy techniques for PMI estimation.
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy
FTIR Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, combined with chemometrics, has shown promise in estimating PMI by analyzing changes in bone chemistry over time. A study involving 56 human corpses used FTIR spectroscopy to examine buried and unburied bones over intervals ranging from 76 to 552 days. The study found that the amide I region of proteins and the area around 1390 cm-1, associated with fatty acids, exhibited regular changes that were crucial for PMI estimation. The genetic algorithm combined with partial least-squares (GA-PLS) provided satisfactory predictions with root mean square errors of prediction (RMSEP) of 50.93 days for buried bones and 71.03 days for unburied bones.
Infrared Spectroscopy in Attenuated Total Reflectance Mode (FTIR-ATR)
Another study applied FTIR-ATR to analyze femur and humerus samples from 80 individuals with known PMIs. The research identified specific infrared indices, such as the crystallinity index (CI) and the carbonate ratio (C/C), as suitable for PMI estimation. The study found that larger PMIs correlated with an increase in B-type carbonate (BPI) and A-type carbonates (API), and a decrease in CI and C/C ratios.
Near-Infrared (NIR) Spectroscopy
Handheld NIR Spectrometry
Handheld NIR spectrometry offers a non-destructive and rapid method for PMI estimation. A study using a handheld NIR spectrometer analyzed 104 human bone samples with PMIs ranging from 1 day to 2000 years. The Artificial Neural Network used in the study achieved high classification accuracies for different PMI ranges, with 100% accuracy for archaeological bones. This method extends the forensic analysis repertoire by providing a quick and reliable approach to PMI estimation.
Raman Spectroscopy
Raman Spectroscopy for PMI Estimation
Raman spectroscopy has been explored for its potential in PMI estimation by studying chemical modifications in bones and teeth. A review highlighted the technique's non-destructive and fast nature, making it suitable for forensic applications. Raman spectroscopy can differentiate between forensic and archaeological bone samples by analyzing specific spectral features, such as the intensity of the 1402 cm-1 band .
Raman Microscopic Imaging
Raman microscopic imaging techniques have been used to visualize PMI-specific features by overlaying IR imaging data with morphological tissue structures. The study found that archaeological bone material exhibited less phospholipids, proteins, and complex carbohydrates compared to forensic samples. Principal component analysis (PCA) allowed for a clear distinction between forensic and archaeological bone samples, demonstrating the technique's suitability for PMI estimation.
Ultraviolet-Visible-Near-Infrared (UV-Vis-NIR) Spectroscopy
UV-Vis-NIR Spectroscopy for Soil Analysis
A novel study used UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy to scan soil from cadaver decomposition islands (CDIs) to estimate PMI. The decomposition product spectra model (DPS model) constructed from the study provided accurate PMI predictions for different soil types and conditions. This method highlights the potential of UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy in forensic investigations involving surface-found skeletal remains.
Conclusion
Various spectroscopy methods, including FTIR, NIR, Raman, and UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy, have shown significant potential in estimating the post-mortem interval of human skeletal remains. These techniques offer non-destructive, rapid, and reliable approaches to PMI estimation, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. Future research and advancements in these methods will continue to improve their applicability and precision in real forensic cases.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Estimation of the late postmortem interval using FTIR spectroscopy and chemometrics in human skeletal remains.
Post-Mortem Interval of Human Skeletal Remains Estimated with Handheld NIR Spectrometry
Raman spectroscopy for postmortem interval estimation of human skeletal remains: A scoping review
Assessing various Infrared (IR) microscopic imaging techniques for post-mortem interval evaluation of human skeletal remains
Non-invasive post-mortem interval diagnostics using a hand-held Raman spectrometer
Postmortem interval of skeletal remains through the detection of intraosseal hemin traces. A comparison of UV-fluorescence, luminol, Hexagon-OBTI®, and Combur® tests.
Estimation of the post-mortem interval in human bones by infrared spectroscopy
The comparative performance of PMI estimation in skeletal remains by three methods (C-14, luminol test and OHI): analysis of 20 cases
Estimating postmortem interval for human cadavers in a sub‐tropical climate using UV‐Vis‐near‐infrared Spectroscopy
Estimating the Post-Mortem Interval of skeletonized remains: The use of Infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectro-microscopy
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