Sphenoid sinuses' volume and area analysis of Brazilian individuals' CBCTs, related to sex, age, skin color, and nutritional status using DDS-Pro™ software.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the volume and area of sphenoid sinuses of Brazilian individuals' cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images using the beta version of the DDS-Pro™ 2.14.2_2022 software (DPP Systems, Czestochowa, Poland), to assess a potential correlation to sex, age, skin color, and nutritional status, and to evaluate differences between the right and left sides. Three-dimensional volume and area measurements were made with the software using CBCT images of 113 living Brazilian individuals of both sexes (67 females and 46 males). TEM, rTEM, and R were used to assess the reproducibility of inter- and intra-examiner measurements. The measurement means were estimated with 95% confidence intervals according to sex and age group. There were no significant differences between the left and right sides for both volume and area and between the sexes and black and white individuals. Volume and area were significantly higher in 18 years or older (p < 0.05) and in individuals with normal body mass index (BMI) (p < 0.05). The obtained results do not allow indicating the use of sphenoid sinuses volume and area measurements to estimate sexual dimorphism, and the same occurred for skin color. However, such measures can help to estimate age. Further studies are suggested with a larger sample, especially for the nutritional status variable.

Chronology of permanent teeth mineralization in Brazilian individuals: age estimation tables.

BACKGROUND: Age is important in forming the uniqueness of individuals. When chronological age is not available, age estimation is required, particularly in court cases. The mineralization chronology of permanent teeth is a valuable tool for age estimation of subadults. This study aimed to evaluate the mineralization stages of permanent teeth of Brazilian subjects from imaging exams, using the classification by Moorrees et al. modified by the authors, to verify the existence of correlation between the chronology of mineralization stages and sex and to prepare numerical tables of the chronology of dental mineralization stages for Brazilian individuals. METHODS: Digital panoramic radiographs of 1100 living Brazilian individuals of both sexes, aged between 2 and 25 years, born between 1990 and 2018, from the image bank of a Dental Radiographs and Documentations clinic located in the city of Araraquara, SP, Brazil. The images were evaluated according to the level of crown and root development and classified according to the stages proposed by Moorrees et al. (Am J Phys Anthropol 21: 205-213, 1963) adapted by the authors. All analyses were performed in the R software. Descriptive and exploratory analyses were performed on all data. For intra- and inter-examiner analyses, the rate of agreement and Kappa statistics at a 95% confidence interval were used. Kappa was interpreted according to Landis and Koch. RESULTS: Only upper and lower canines showed significant differences between the sexes (p < 0.05), with higher average ages for men. The findings were presented in tables, as well as age estimates with 95% confidence intervals for each mineralization stage and each tooth. CONCLUSION: In the present study, we evaluated the mineralization stages of permanent teeth of Brazilian subjects from digital panoramic radiographs and found no correlation between the chronology of mineralization stages and sex, except for canines. From the obtained results, numerical tables of the chronology of dental mineralization stages were prepared.

Use of animals in dental research: Trends and ethical reflections.

This study aimed to survey and analyze the profile of experimental dental research in animals, verifying its trends. We evaluated studies developed with the use of animals in vivo, published in 10 dental journals with high impact factors, from 2015 to 2020. From 1652 studies retrieved, 594 involved in vivo experimentation on animals and were analyzed further. Rats were the species most used and with the highest mean of animals per study. Ferrets, although presenting the lowest rate of publications, had the second highest mean of animals per study. Periodontics was the dental specialty with the highest number of publications, while oral rehabilitation had the lowest number. The data on the institution responsible for reviewing animal research protocols approval, sample size, anesthesia and analgesia were provided in 93.10%, 83%, 70.54% and 23.74% of studies, respectively. In 53% of studies, euthanasia was specified and anesthetic overdose was the method most used. Over the period analyzed, there was a reduction in animal studies in vivo, and periodontics was the specialty that most used this experimental model. Although most studies mentioned approval by an ethics committee, some publications neglected to mention sample size, anesthesia and euthanasia. The omission of essential information may raise scientific and ethical concerns.

Three-dimensional analysis of the maxillary sinus according to sex, age, skin color, and nutritional status: A study with live Brazilian subjects using cone-beam computed tomography.

OBJECTIVE: To perform three-dimensional measurements (volume and area) of the maxillary sinus, from cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images, and to assess potential differences between the left and right sides and a correlation of the measurements to sex, age, skin color, and nutritional status. DESIGN: CBCT images of 161 living Brazilian subjects of both sexes (89 women and 72 men) were used, and three-dimensional measurements of volume and area were made with the beta version of the DDS-Pro™ 2.14.2_2022 software (DPP Systems, Czestochowa, Poland). The inter- and intra-examiner reproducibility of measurements was evaluated with TEM, rTEM, and R. RESULTS: Both maxillary sinus volume and area did not show significant differences between the left and right sides and between the sexes. Volume and area were significantly lower in the age group from 6 to 11 years than in the other two groups (p < 0.05). The measurements obtained for maxillary sinus volume and area were significantly higher in white individuals (p < 0.05), but they did not show significant differences (p > 0.05) regarding nutritional status (considering the body mass index - BMI). CONCLUSION: There were no statistically significant differences between the sexes, which does not allow recommending the use of maxillary sinus volume and area measurements to analyze sexual dimorphism, and the same occurs for BMI. However, such measures can help to estimate the age and skin color of individuals.

Ciências forenses: princípios éticos e vieses / Forensic sciences: ethical principles and biases / Ciencias forenses: principios éticos y sesgos

Resumo As ciências forenses empregam conhecimentos científicos e técnicas diversas para apurar crimes e outros assuntos legais - cíveis, penais ou administrativos. Sua principal função é viabilizar as investigações relativas à justiça civil e criminal, visando esclarecer as questões do sistema de segurança pública. Porém, com o avanço tecnológico, certos crimes - e, consequentemente, a prática forense - tornaram-se mais complexos. Como todas as profissões, as ciências forenses são regidas por princípios e práticas éticas que acrescentam deveres e responsabilidades ao profissional, objetivando agregar qualidade tanto no plano técnico quanto humano e evitar vieses. Com isso, este artigo apresenta reflexões sobre questões éticas e vieses relacionados à atuação dos profissionais das ciências forenses.

Abstract Forensic sciences use diverse scientific and technical knowledge to investigate crimes and other legal matters - civil, criminal, or administrative. Its primary role is to enable investigations related to civil and criminal justice, aiming to clarify issues of the public security system. But with technological advances, certain crimes, and consequently forensic practice, have become more complex. Like all professions, forensic sciences are governed by ethical principles and practices that include duties and responsibilities, aiming to add both technical and human quality and avoid biases. Thus, this article presents reflections on ethical issues and biases related to the forensic science professionals' work.

Resumen Las ciencias forenses utilizan conocimientos científicos y técnicas para investigar delitos y otros asuntos legales (civiles, penales o administrativos). Su función principal es posibilitar las investigaciones relativas a la justicia civil y penal, con el objetivo de resolver problemas del sistema de seguridad pública. Sin embargo, con el avance tecnológico, ciertos delitos -y, en consecuencia, la práctica forense- se han vuelto más complejos. Al igual que todas las profesiones, las ciencias forenses se rigen por principios y prácticas éticas que agregan deberes y responsabilidades al profesional, con el objetivo de mejorar la calidad técnica y humana y evitar sesgos. Este artículo presenta reflexiones sobre las cuestiones éticas y los sesgos relacionados con la actuación de los profesionales de las ciencias forenses.

Cirurgia de feminização facial em transexuais: reflexões éticas e forenses / Facial feminization surgery in transsexuals: ethical and forensic reflections / Cirugía de feminización facial en transexuales: reflexiones éticas y forenses

Resumo Cirurgias de feminização facial, que visam tornar o rosto de mulheres transexuais mais feminino, alteram tecidos moles e duros. Tais procedimentos envolvem inúmeros aspectos éticos, desde a cobertura por planos de saúde e serviço público até o direito à mudança de nome. Há também consequências forenses, no que diz respeito à eventual necessidade de identificar pessoas submetidas a esse tipo de cirurgia. Essas consequências, embora importantes, são pouco consideradas em estudos científicos. Com isso, neste trabalho são analisados alguns aspectos éticos e forenses decorrentes de cirurgias de feminização facial.

Abstract Facial feminization surgeries, which aim to render transsexuals' facial features more feminine, alter soft and hard tissues. These procedures involve ethical issues such as health insurance and public service coverage, and the right to legal name change. Forensic consequences, concerning eventual need to identify individuals who underwent this surgery, are important and require scientific studies. In this article, we analyze some ethical and forensic aspects resulting from facial feminization surgeries.

Resumen Las cirugías de feminización facial que pretenden volver más femeninos los rostros de mujeres transexuales producen cambios en los tecidos blandos y duros. Tales procedimientos involucran muchos aspectos éticos, desde la cobertura del seguro de salud y del servicio público hasta las discusiones sobre el derecho al cambio de nombre. Hay también consecuencias forenses en lo que se refiere a las posibles necesidades de identificación de las personas que se someten a esta cirugía. A pesar de su importancia, estas consecuencias son poco abordadas en estudios científicos. Así, en este artículo se analizan algunos aspectos éticos y forenses derivados de las cirugías de feminización facial.

Evaluation of Lip Prints on Different Supports Using a Batch Image Processing Algorithm and Image Superimposition.

This study aimed to develop and to assess an algorithm to facilitate lip print visualization, and to digitally analyze lip prints on different supports, by superimposition. It also aimed to classify lip prints according to sex. A batch image processing algorithm was developed, which facilitated the identification and extraction of information about lip grooves. However, it performed better for lip print images with a uniform background. Paper and glass slab allowed more correct identifications than glass and the both sides of compact disks. There was no significant difference between the type of support and the amount of matching structures located in the middle area of the lower lip. There was no evidence of association between types of lip grooves and sex. Lip groove patterns of type III and type I were the most common for both sexes. The development of systems for lip print analysis is necessary, mainly concerning digital methods.

Análise de reconstruções faciais forenses digitais: proposta de protocolo piloto baseado em evidências / Forensic facial reconstructions analysis: proposal of a evidence-based pilot protocol

A reconstrução facial forense corresponde à construção facial de um indivíduo, realizada a partir de um crânio não identificado. Pode ser bidimensional ou tridimensional, realizada de forma manual ou digital. Neste último caso, o advento das novas tecnologias da informação em muito contribuiu, sobretudo no que diz respeito ao desenvolvimento de programas de imagem 3D, equipamentos de tomografia computadorizada e scanner 3D. Diferentes técnicas, equipamentos e softwares têm sido empregados com esta finalidade. A caracterização de reconstruções faciais com pelos como cabelo, cílios e sobrancelhas, tem sido questionada, sobretudo quando não há informação sobre tais dados. Este trabalho analisa reconstruções faciais forenses digitais 3D e, com base em evidências, propõe um protocolo piloto para a execução e apresentação das mesmas. Reconstruções faciais digitais, confeccionadas com o software 3ds Max, sem caracterização de pelos foram confeccionadas, utilizando três diferentes tabelas de espessura de tecidos moles, e submetidas a um teste de reconhecimento, por 22 examinadores. Em todos os casos, o sujeito-alvo foi o mais reconhecido, chegando a ser reconhecido por 45,45% dos avaliadores. É apresentada uma proposta de protocolo piloto para a confecção e apresentação de reconstruções faciais forenses. Para a confecção das mesmas, é empregado o software 3ds Max, e recomendado o emprego do software ZBrush para a pós-produção (como aposição de rugas e linhas). É impresso um protótipo da reconstrução facial, que pode facilitar o reconhecimento. Os autores afirmam que não deve ser realizada a caracterização com pelos, o que pode prejudicar o reconhecimento.

The forensic facial reconstruction corresponds to the rebuilding of the face of an individual, upon an unidentified skull. It can be two-dimensional or three-dimensional, performed manually or digitally. In the latter case, the advent of new information technologies has greatly contributed, especially with regard to the development of 3D image softwares, computed tomography and 3D scanner. Different techniques, equipments and softwares have been employed for this purpose. The characterization of facial reconstructions with hair, as hair, eyelashes and eyebrows, has been questioned, especially when there is no information about such data. This paper analyzes 3D digital forensic facial reconstructions and, based on evidence, proposes a pilot protocol for their confection and presentation. Digital facial reconstructions, made with 3ds Max software, without hair characterization, were made using three different tables of thickness of soft tissues. They were evaluated by 22 examiners, in a recognition test. In all cases, the target-subject was the most recognized subject, reaching the recognition rate of 45.45%. A proposal for a pilot protocol for the confection and presentation of forensic facial reconstructions is presented. The 3ds Max software is used to perform the facial reconstruction, and the ZBrush software to make the post-production (as wrinkles and lines). A prototype of the facial reconstruction is printed - it can facilitate the recognition of the subject. The authors state that the characterization with hair should not be performed, as it can impair the recognition.

Pesquisas em animais: uma reflexão bioética / Investigación con animales: una reflexión bioética / Animal research: a bioethical reflection

Os modelos de experimentação animal constituem uma importante ferramenta na pesquisa científica. Sabe-se que essa prática deve estar baseada em princípios bioéticos, seja para impor limites de dor e sofrimento, como para fiscalizar instalações e procedimentos. Assim, o presente estudo teve por objetivo levantar e apresentar as normas atuais que regulamentam as pesquisas em animais no Brasil comprando-as a outros países, bem como fomentar reflexões bioéticas sobre esse mote. Para isso, apresentamos a legislação brasileira vigente e conduzimos uma revisão e discussão da literatura internacional. A busca de artigos foi realizada na base de dados PubMed, utilizando como palavra-chave os termos "bioética" e "bem-estar do animal". Foram incluídos dezenove artigos, publicados entre os anos de 1997 a 2013. Concluiu-se que é evidente a contribuição dos animais para pesquisas científicas de diversas áreas. Cabe moralmente ao Homem, como ser racional, garantir um tratamento digno aos animais que contribuem para a pesquisa. A forma mais segura de seguir este caminho é estabelecendo leis claras e pesquisas bem delineadas, que envolvam a sociedade para designar normas éticas. Dessa forma, o bem-estar animal estaria garantido.

Los modelos animales son una herramienta importante en la investigación científica. Se sabe que esta práctica debe basarse en principios bioéticos, sea para imponer límites sobre el dolor y el sufrimiento, o para inspeccionar las instalaciones y procedimientos. Este estudio tuvo el objetivo de evaluar y presentar las normas vigentes que rigen la investigación con animales en Brasil, comparándolas con otros países, así como fomentar la reflexión bioética sobre este tema. Para eso, presentamos la legislación brasileña vigente y realizamos una revisión y discusión de la literatura internacional. La búsqueda de artículos fue realizada en la base de datos PubMed, usando las palabras-clave "bioética" y "bienestar del animal". Se incluyeron diecinueve artículos publicados entre 1997 e 2013. Se concluyó que es evidente la contribución de los animales para la investigación científica de varias áreas. Cabe moralmente al ser humano, como ser racional, asegurar un tratamiento humanitario de los animales que contribuyen con la investigación. La forma más segura de seguir este camino es estableciendo leyes claras e investigaciones bien delineadas, que involucren la sociedad para designar normas éticas. Así, el bienestar de los animales estaría garantizado.

Animal models are an important tool in scientific research. It is known that this practice must be based on bioethical principles in order to impose limits about pain and suffering, or for inspecting proceedings and research site. This study has as aim to evaluate and present current legislation ruling animal research in Brazil, comparing it with other countries, as well as fostering bioethical reflection about this issue. For this, we present current Brazilian legislation and we have carried out international literature review and discussion. The articles were searched in PubMed data base, using the key words "bioethics" and "animal welfare". Nineteen articles from 1997 to 2013 were included. It was concluded the evident contribution of animal research for scientific research in several fields. It is morally relevant for humans, as rational beings, to secure humane treatment to animals contributing to research. The safest way to follow this path is establishing clear norms and studies well designed, involving society for assigning ethical norms. Thus, animal welfare would be guarantee.

Violence against children and adolescents: the importance of knowledge of the spectrum of bruise colors in its diagnosis

Introduction: One of the violence types more observed against children is the physical abuse, which produces many types of traumatic injuries. Contusions are common trauma signs and may indicate aggression when frequently present in locations where accidental injuries are rare. Contusions in skin undergo color changes with the passage of time, and such change in color is called "spectrum of bruise colors of Legrand du Saulle". Thus, it is possible to estimate the age of the lesion based on the evaluation of color. Injuries caused by child abuse often reach regions of head, face and neck, because they are exposed and easily accessible. Therefore, the dentist is responsible with regard to the diagnosis and the actions to be undertaken against the cases of child abuse. Objective: To present and discuss the significance of the spectrum of bruise colors as a considerable visible trace in suspicion of violence against children and adolescents, during dentists' clinical routine. Literature review: The study of the "spectrum of bruise colors of Legrand du Saulle" refers to the estimation of the age of the injury, in respect to the color change. The application of this study is of great value for identify if a lesion occurred from a single incident or from multiple incidents, especially in cases where it occurs in the same region of the body, indicative of repetitive trauma. Conclusion: The spectrum of bruise colors is very important for health professionals, such as dentists, for the identification or suspicion of cases of abuse against children and adolescents. As great part of the lesions originated of abuse involve the areas of head and neck, it is unacceptable that these professionals are unaware of the basic signs to help in early diagnosis, which is the case of the colors of the lesions. However, concerning the chronology of the spectrum of bruise colors, it is not possible to establish rigorous times.

Human identification by means of conventional and digital Cheiloscopy: a study of the literature / Identificação humana por meio da Queiloscopia convencional e digital: um estudo da literatura

One of the areas of human identification is Cheiloscopy, the name given to the study of the lips, their characteristics (such as thickness, position of the grooves and grooves) and the record of the impressions left by them. There are variations in the layout of the lines and fissures of the lips, which are unique to each individual, permanent and unchanging. The lip print rarely changes, enduring minor traumas such as inflammation or sores. In criminal investigations, lip prints, visible through the presence of lipstick, can be found on glasses, napkins, clothes, cigarettes, indicating a relationship between the subject and the scene of the crime. Latent impressions may be revealed employing specific chemicals such as powder of silver and aluminum nitrate. Although it is not a very common method, Cheiloscopy may become very useful in forensics due to the extensive amount of valuable information that it brings. The objective of this study was to review the literature on the use of Cheiloscopy in human identification, using traditional and digital methods. It was found that the literature is still in need of studies in this area. The advent of new digital technologies can facilitate the implementation of technical expertise, generating speed and objectivity. New research studies are necessary, especially in the development of digital methods. The application of Cheiloscopy can greatlyhelp with Law, in the identification of living suspects and dead individuals. In the end the benefit will fall to society as a whole.

Uma das áreas da identificação humana é a Queiloscopia, nome dado ao estudo dos lábios, suas características (como grossura, posição dos sulcos e estrias) e o registro das impressões deixadas por eles. Existem variações na disposição das linhas e fissuras dos lábios, sendo únicas para cada indivíduo, permanentes e imutáveis. A impressão do lábio raramente se modifica, resistindo a pequenos traumas como inflamações ou lesões herpéticas. Em investigações criminais, impressões labiais visíveis pela presença de batom podem ser encontradas em copos, guardanapos, roupas, cigarros, indicando uma relação do sujeito com o ambiente do crime. Impressões latentes podem ser reveladas empregando-se substâncias químicas específicas como pó de nitrato de prata e de alumínio. Mesmo não sendo um método muito comum, a Queiloscopia pode se tornar bastante útil na prática forense devido à extensa quantidade de informações preciosas que carrega. O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar uma revisão da literatura sobre o emprego da Queiloscopia em identificação humana, utilizando-se métodos tradicionais e digitais. Verificou-se que a literatura ainda é carente de trabalhos nesta seara. O advento das novas tecnologias digitais pode facilitar a execução desta técnica pericial, gerando rapidez e objetividade. São necessárias novas pesquisas, sobretudo no desenvolvimento de métodos digitais. A aplicação da Queiloscopia pode, em muito, colaborar com a Justiça, na identificação de suspeitos vivos e de indivíduos mortos. Ao final, o ganho será da sociedade.

Is characterizing the digital forensic facial reconstruction with hair necessary? A familiar assessors' analysis.

BACKGROUND: In the international scientific literature, there are few studies that emphasize the presence or absence of hair in forensic facial reconstructions. There are neither Brazilian studies concerning digital facial reconstructions without hair, nor research comparing recognition tests between digital facial reconstructions with hair and without hair. The miscegenation of Brazilian people is considerable. Brazilian people, and, in particular, Brazilian women, even if considered as Caucasoid, may present the hair in very different ways: curly, wavy or straight, blonde, red, brown or black, long or short, etc. For this reason, it is difficult to find a correct type of hair for facial reconstruction (unless, in real cases, some hair is recovered with the skeletal remains). AIMS AND METHODS: This study focuses on the performance of three different digital forensic facial reconstructions, without hair, of a Brazilian female subject (based on one international database and two Brazilian databases for soft facial-tissue thickness) and evaluates the digital forensic facial reconstructions comparing them to photographs of the target individual and nine other subjects, employing the recognition method. A total of 22 assessors participated in the recognition process; all of them were familiar with the 10 individuals who composed the face pool. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: The target subject was correctly recognized by 41% of the 22 examiners in the International Pattern, by 32% in the Brazilian Magnetic Resonance Pattern and by 32% in the Brazilian Fresh Cadavers Pattern. The facial reconstructions without hair were correctly recognized using the three databases of facial soft-tissue thickness. The observed results were higher than the results obtained using facial reconstructions with hair, from the same skull, which can indicate that it is better to not use hair, at least when there is no information concerning its characteristics.

Peri-orbital bone dimensional analysis using computed tomography for placement of osseointegrated implants

Craniofacial osseointegrated implants enabled producing implant-retained facial prosthesis, namelythe orbital prosthesis. Aim: To evaluate the length and width of the bone structure of the peri-orbitalregion and to present the method validation. Methods: Computed tomography scans of 30 dryhuman skulls were obtained in order to register linear length and width measurements of the periorbitalregion. Two examiners made the measurements twice with intervals of at least 7 daysbetween them. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and the paired Student’s t-test wasused as inferential technique (SAS, α=0.05). Results: In most cases, the intra- and inter-examinervariations were not significant (p>0.05). Therefore, the method proposed was considered asprecise and valid for the measurement of the peri-orbital region. The measured points correspondto the hours of a clock. The major lengths were observed at 1 h (18.32 mm) for the left peri-orbitalbone and at 11h (19.28 mm) for the right peri-orbital bone, followed by the points situated at 2h(13.05 mm) and 12h (11.37 mm) for the left side and at 10 h (12.34 mm) and 12 h (11.56 mm) forthe right side. It was verified that the three points with lowest values followed the same anatomicalsequence in the supraorbital rim for the right and left orbits, showing compatibility with the insertionof the intraoral osseointegrated implants. The medial wall of both orbits did not present sufficientlength to allow the insertion of intraoral or craniofacial implants. Conclusions: The largest widthpoints were observed in the supraorbital rim and in the infralateral region of both orbits and thoseof smallest width were found in the supralateral region of both orbits.

Importância da correta confecção do prontuário odontológico para identificação humana. Relato de caso / Importance of the correct confection of the dental records for human identification. Case report

O prontuário odontológico corresponde a um conjunto de documentos onde todas as informações do paciente são guardadas. Quando bem elaborado e arquivado pelo Cirurgião-Dentista, poderá servir de ferramenta para o sucesso em perícias odontolegais. O objetivo desse trabalho é apresentar a importância da correta confecção do prontuário odontológico na identificação humana por meio de um caso de identificação, ocorrido em uma cidade do interior do estado de São Paulo. As anotações presentes no prontuário odontológico da suposta vítima apresentaram-se bastante deficientes, inclusive com uma contradição. Porém, tendo sido realizado tratamento endodõntico, a análise comparativa entre as radiografias do crânio da vítima (post-mortem) e as do tratamento endodõntico do dente 22 (antemortem) permitiu observar total coincidência entre os detalhes do referido tratamento, além de características anatõmicas presentes em outros elementos dentários Esses parâmetros importantes de comparação indicaram que o corpo encontrado era do suspeito e, devido ao número de coincidências, não seria possível pertencerem a outro indivíduo. Não obstante, a documentação clínica fornecida estava deficiente, e apresentava dados contraditórios. Visto a sua fundamental importância para a identificação humana é mister que os profissionais da Odontologia tomem os cuidados necessários à sua correta elaboração e guarda, buscando fazer do prontuário também um instrumento de consulta eficiente nos casos de identificação.

The clinical records correspond to a set of documents where ali information of the patient is stored. When properly confectioned and filed by the dentist, it may serve as a tool for success in dental expertise. The aim of this paper is to present the importance of proper confection 01 dental records in human identification by means the presentation of a case of identification, occurred in a São Paulo state citv The notes present in the dental records of the alleged victim were very poor, even with a contradiction. However, having endodontic treatment been performed, the comparative analysis between the radiographs of the skull of the victim (postmortem) and the endodontic treatment of tooth 22 (antemortem) permitted to observe total coincidence between the details of such treatment, and anatomical features present in other dental elements. These important parameters of comparison indicated that the body was of the suspect and, due to the number of coincidences, it could not belong to another individual. Nevertheless, the clinical documentation provided was deficient, and presented contradictory data. Because of its fundamental importance for human identification, it is essential that dental professionals take the necessary care to ensure its proper confection and custody, seeking to make the clinical records also an efficient instrument of consultation in identification cases.

Tests of one Brazilian facial reconstruction method using three soft tissue depth sets and familiar assessors.

Facial reconstruction is a method that seeks to recreate a person's facial appearance from his/her skull. This technique can be the last resource used in a forensic investigation, when identification techniques such as DNA analysis, dental records, fingerprints and radiographic comparison cannot be used to identify a body or skeletal remains. To perform facial reconstruction, the data of facial soft tissue thickness are necessary. Scientific literature has described differences in the thickness of facial soft tissue between ethnic groups. There are different databases of soft tissue thickness published in the scientific literature. There are no literature records of facial reconstruction works carried out with data of soft tissues obtained from samples of Brazilian subjects. There are also no reports of digital forensic facial reconstruction performed in Brazil. There are two databases of soft tissue thickness published for the Brazilian population: one obtained from measurements performed in fresh cadavers (fresh cadavers' pattern), and another from measurements using magnetic resonance imaging (Magnetic Resonance pattern). This study aims to perform three different characterized digital forensic facial reconstructions (with hair, eyelashes and eyebrows) of a Brazilian subject (based on an international pattern and two Brazilian patterns for soft facial tissue thickness), and evaluate the digital forensic facial reconstructions comparing them to photos of the individual and other nine subjects. The DICOM data of the Computed Tomography (CT) donated by a volunteer were converted into stereolitography (STL) files and used for the creation of the digital facial reconstructions. Once the three reconstructions were performed, they were compared to photographs of the subject who had the face reconstructed and nine other subjects. Thirty examiners participated in this recognition process. The target subject was recognized by 26.67% of the examiners in the reconstruction performed with the Brazilian Magnetic Resonance Pattern, 23.33% in the reconstruction performed with the Brazilian Fresh Cadavers Pattern and 20.00% in the reconstruction performed with the International Pattern, in which the target-subject was the most recognized subject in the first two patterns. The rate of correct recognitions of the target subject indicate that the digital forensic facial reconstruction, conducted with parameters used in this study, may be a useful tool.

Evaluation of a digital methodology for human identification using palatal rugoscopy

Palatal rugoscopy, or palatoscopy, is the process by which human identification can be obtained by inspecting the transverse palatal rugae inside the mouth. Aim: This study evaluated a digital method for human identification using palatoscopy, by comparing photographs of the palate against the images of cast models of the maxilla photographed with and without highlighting of the palatal rugae. Methods: Condensation silicone impressions were made from the upper arches of 30 adult subjects of both genders and their palates were then photographed. The first impression was made with heavy silicone, the second impression with light silicone, and then the models were cast in improved type IV dental stone. The casts were photographed, the palatal rugae of each one were highlighted with a pencil, and then the models were photographed again. Using a free image-editing software, the digital photographs were overlapped over the images of the palatal rugae of the models with and without highlighting of the palatal rugae, in order to identify the pairs. Results: The result of overlapping the digital photographs with the images of the models without highlighted palatal rugae resulted in 90% positive identification. For the overlapping of the digital photographs with the images of models with highlighted palatal rugae, there was 100% positive identification. Conclusions: The digital method evaluated in this study was proven effective for human identification.

Imageologia na odontologia e aspectos legais / Imageology in dentistry and legal aspects

A tecnologia tem auxiliado muito no diagnóstico e prognóstico de doenças odontológicas. A utilização da informática, de um modo geral, na confecção da documentação clínica está cada vez mais presente nos consultórios odontológicos. No entanto, os aspectos jurídicos da validade desses sistemas são questionados e constituem matéria de discussão. Este trabalho aborda a imageologia ou diagnóstico por imagens, sendo uma nova área que vem surgindo na Odontologia. Outros exames desta tecnologia são radiografia digital, tomografia, tomografia computadorizada, artomografia, ressonância magnética, cefalometria computadorizada e a ultrassonografia. Os mesmos permitem ao profissional obter um melhor diagnóstico e ao paciente a visualização do seu problema e tratamento. Foi também realizado um levantamento sobre as possibilidades do uso da informática na Odontologia, em especial na Radiologia, bem como os aspectos legais, que estão de acordo com a Lei 8935/94 o que garante a sua prática. A Certificação Digital é um mecanismo que propicia validade jurídica a documentos como as imagens radiográficas entre outras. É um cuidado que o cirurgião-dentista deve tomar para assegurar-se de que tem resguardadas as provas judiciais que se fizerem necessárias em eventual demanda.

The technology, through the advent of new equipments that allow imaging exams, has helped very much in the diagnosis and prognosis of diseases in Dentistry. The use of informatics, in general, in the manufacture of clinical reports is increasingly present in the dental offices. The legal validity of these systems is questioned, and is matter of discussion. This work makes considerations about Imageology or Diagnostic by image, a new area that is appearing on Dentistry. Among other exams, there are: digital radiography, tomography, computed tomography, artomography, magnetic resonance, computed cefalometry and ultra-sonography. It permits the professional to obtain a better diagnostic, and to the patient, the visualization of his problem and treatment. A survey on the possibilities of using informatics in Dentistry, particularly in Radiology, was also carried out, as well as the legal aspects, which are in accordance with the Law 8.935/94, what guarantees its practicability. Digital Certification is a mechanism that provides legal validity to documents and, as such, to radiographic images and others. It is a procedure that the dentist should take to ensure that he/she has safeguarded the judicial proofs that may be necessary in an eventual demand.

Novo código de ética odontológica: alterações e inovações / New code of dental ethics: alterations and innovations

O Código de Ética Odontológica regulamenta os direitos e deveres dos profissionais, entidades e operadoras de planos de saúde com inscrição nos Conselhos de Odontologia. Após a III Conferência Nacional de Ética Odontológica (III CONEO), realizada em Florianópolis, em dezembro de 2002, o Código teve o seu texto reformulado e aprovado pela Resolução CFO-42/2003, editada em 20 de maio de 2003. Este trabalho estabelece comparações entre novo Código e o anterior, aprovado pela Resolução CFO 179/91 (alterado pelo regulamento n° 01, de 05 de junho de 1998), analisando as alterações e inovações presentes no texto atual

Conhecimento e utilização da informática pelo cirurgião-dentista como ferramenta de trabalho / Knowledge and aplication of information technology as a working toll by dentists

O presente trabalho teve por objetivos verificar e analisar os conhecimentos de informática dos cirurgiões-dentistas, forma de aquisição de tais conhecimentos e efetiva utilização. Foi aplicado um questionário para 203 cirurgiões-dentistas participantes de congressos e jornadas odontológicas, previamente elaborado, com respostas múltiplas, e realizado um estudo piloto que permitiu um ajuste da metodologia com a inclusão e alteração de algumas perguntas pertencentes ao questionário inicial. Foi possível concluir que apesar da grande utilização da Internet o profissional ainda não a utiliza para o aprendizado específico da informática e sim para o específico de odontologia. A procura pela informatização do consultório cresce a cada dia e a maioria, 77,06% dos profissionais que não possuem seu consultório informatizado pretendem informatizá-lo. No que se refere a sistemas aplicativos odontológicos, foi possível verificar que 46,81 % utilizam algum tipo de sistema. Quando se trata de ferramentas para captura de imagens (14,29%), radiografias digitais (12,81%) e outros tipos de ferramentas automatizadas (6,89%), foi possível notar uma pequena utilização, talvez devido ao alto custo e por muitas vezes pela dificuldade de seu manuseio, porém é interessante ressaltar que já está presente nas atividades diárias do profissional. Certamente com as novas configurações de microcomputadores, com a redução e aumento de vantagens, os sistemas aplicativos ocuparão uma parte maior para o controle também de dados clínicos. Novas versões e novos equipamentos têm surgido numa velocidade cada vez maior, o que reforça a necessidade do profissional estar sempre atualizado com o que aparece no mercado.

Bioética e Odontologia / Bioethics and Dentistry

A bioética lida com questões da moralidade e da racionalidade de conduta humana nas ciências biológicas e da saúde. Em seu seio são discutidos aspectos éticos de temas polêmicos, como aborto e eutanásia, além de pesquisas envolvendo seres humanos, dentre outros. A relação profissional/paciente é também debatida nesta recente área do conhecimento. Por meio da autonomia, o paciente passa a compartilhar as decisões, baseado em valores e crenças pessoais, podendo assim realizar a uma escolha consciente e conseqüente. Escolhe as propostas terapêuticas, acatando-as, ou não, mediante o seu consentimento após completo entendimento e compreensão. Por sua vez, a beneficência está relacionanda ao papel do profissional em assegurar os benefícios para a saúde do paciente, através do diagnóstico, prevenção e tratamento de doenças bucais, contribuindo na qualidade de vida do mesmo. O tema proposto vem valorizar tanto o papel do paciente como colaborador ativo no seu tratamento, como ao cirurgião-dentista, na promoção de saúde. Este trabalho tem por objetivo discutir o papel da reflexão bioética na Odontologia. A partir das referências levantadas, pode-se afirmar que são necessárias e fundamentais.