The effect of repeated physical disturbance on soft tissue decomposition-are taphonomic studies an accurate reflection of decomposition?

被引:90
作者
Adlam, Rachel E. [1 ]
Simmons, Tal [1 ]
机构
[1] Univ Cent Lancashire, Dept Forens & Investigat Sci, Preston PR1 2HE, Lancs, England
关键词
forensic science; forensic taphonomy; decomposition; disturbance;
D O I
10.1111/j.1556-4029.2007.00510.x
中图分类号
DF [法律]; D9 [法律]; R [医药、卫生];
学科分类号
0301 ; 10 ;
摘要
Although the relationship between decomposition and postmortem interval has been well studied, almost no studies examined the potential effects of physical disturbance occurring as a result of data collection procedures. This study compares physically disturbed rabbit carcasses with a series of undisturbed carcasses to assess the presence and magnitude of any effects resulting from repetitive disturbance. Decomposition was scored using visual assessment of soft tissue changes, and numerical data such as weight loss and carcass temperature were recorded. The effects of disturbance over time on weight loss, carcass temperature, soil pH and decomposition were studied. In addition, this study aimed to validate some of the anecdotal evidence regarding decomposition. Results indicate disturbance significantly inversely affects both weight loss and carcass temperature. No differences were apparent between groups for soil pH change or overall decomposition stage. An insect-mediated mechanism for the disturbance effect is suggested, along with indications as to why this effect may be cancelled when scoring overall decomposition.
引用
收藏
页码:1007 / 1014
页数:8
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