Obtaining fingerprints from mummified fingers: a method for tissue rehydration adapted from the archeological literature.

Our laboratory was asked to help with the rehydration of mummified human fingertips that had been removed from a recently deceased, unidentified female. Using a solution that was found in the archeological literature, we were able to successfully rehydrate dermal tissues to the extent that fingerprints could be taken. We believe that this solution, which until now has not been described in the forensic literature, is effective, affordable, and relatively easy to produce and use.

Investigation of the 1987 Indianapolis Airport Ramada Inn incident.

On October 20, 1987, a military reserve aircraft lost power during a transcontinental flight and attempted an emergency landing at The Indianapolis International Airport. The pilot ejected and the disabled and pilotless aircraft struck a bank building. It then skidded across the street and entered the lobby of The Airport Ramada Inn where it exploded. This incident was unusual in that the fatal injuries occurred in individuals on the ground and not in the occupant of the aircraft. Seven people were killed in the lobby area and two were trapped in a laundry where they died of smoke inhalation. A tenth person died of burns ten days later. Minor injuries were reported among four hotel guests, two firefighters and the Air Force pilot. A multiagency mass disaster-plan had been formulated and rehearsed in preparation for the Panamerican Games, which had been held in Indianapolis in August 1987. A number of volunteers arrived before a security perimeter was established. They began an undocumented removal of the bodies from the scene and were about to remove valuables for "safekeeping" when stopped by coroners' office personnel. Fatalities resulted from smoke inhalation, burns or a combination. Bodies were identified by a combination of dental records, personal effects and visual means within 24 hours. The problems encountered in managing this disaster scene will also be compared with previously reported incidents.

Identification of human remains by comparison of frontal sinus radiographs: a series of four cases.

The value for identification purposes of the radiographic frontal sinus outline, which is unique to each individual and remains constant throughout that individual's lifetime, is discussed. A general discussion of identification using frontal sinus X-rays is presented, along with four cases.

Specimens for teaching forensic pathology, odontology, and anthropology. I. Soft tissue.

A set of specimens has been collected, preserved, and organized specifically for the teaching of forensic pathology, odontology, and anthropology. Plastination of soft tissue, whole organs, bones, and teeth has proven valuable in preserving delicate, friable, and calcined specimens. The dry, odorless, biologically inert specimens are durable and resistant to damage caused by handling. Subtle features of soft tissue pathology are well preserved. Patterned injuries change due to shrinkage, but remain easily recognizable. Plastinated whole jaws are still readily identifiable from antemortem records. Radiographic density is essentially unchanged. Putrid and charred specimens become quite manageable.

Specimens for teaching forensic pathology, odontology, and anthropology. II. Teeth and bone.

A set of specimens has been collected, preserved, and organized specifically for the teaching of forensic pathology, odontology, and anthropology. Plastination of soft tissue, whole organs, bones, and teeth has proven valuable in preserving delicate, friable, and calcined specimens. The dry, odorless, biologically inert specimens are durable and resistant to damage caused by handling. Subtle features of soft tissue pathology are well preserved. Patterned injuries change due to shrinkage, but remain easily recognizable. Plastinated whole jaws are still readily identifiable from antemortem records. Radiograph density is essentially unchanged. Putrid and charred specimens become quite manageable.