Application of Sequential Changes of Dural Thickness and Biomechanical Parameters in Postmortem Interval Estimation

Area of Science:

• Forensic science
• Biomaterials science
• Human anatomy

Background:

• Accurate postmortem interval (PMI) estimation is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Existing methods for PMI determination have limitations.
• The dura mater's biomechanical properties and thickness changes postmortem are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between dural thickness, biomechanical parameters, and PMI in human cadavers.
• To evaluate the feasibility of using these parameters for PMI estimation.

Main Methods:

• Dural samples collected from cadavers at various postmortem intervals (6-96 hours).
• Measurement of dural thickness and biomechanical parameters (ultimate load, tensile strength, elastic modulus, fracture force).
• Morphological analysis of dural tissue sections.

Main Results:

• Dural thickness, ultimate load, tensile strength, elastic modulus, and fracture force decreased progressively from 6 to 96 hours postmortem.
• Significant correlations found between PMI and dural thickness, ultimate load, elastic modulus, and fracture force (P<0.05).
• Morphological changes included decreased nuclear count and collagen fiber fusion.

Conclusions:

• Dural thickness and specific biomechanical properties exhibit sequential changes postmortem.
• Regression equations based on these changes can reliably estimate PMI up to 96 hours.
• These findings provide a novel approach for PMI determination in forensic science.