The use of a new algorithm and core body temperature to aid in the determination of short-term postmortem interval
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Authors
Westlund, Jennifer L.
Issue Date
2002
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Forensic sciences
Alternative Title
Abstract
Historically, postmortem interval estimation (PMI) based upon mathematical analysis of core body temperature changes has been inaccurate to a degree unacceptable in courtroom testimony. In part these methods have failed because they did not control for error in data through the use of larger samples and exponential averaging. Nelson (2000) developed an algorithm that showed promise, initially proving to be twice as accurate for twice as long, compared to traditional, Newtonian-derived methods of estimation. This study collected core body temperature from eight canines euthanized for medical or behavioral nett but to whom the researchers were given access upon death. Clear evidence of an initial temperature increase artifact was noted in all subjects. Application of Nelson's modified algorithm (in press) substantiated this method as extremely accurate. Esophageal/thoracic data proved to yield results approximately twice as accurate as those generated from rectal data. Aural data was ruled useless due to obvious susceptibility to ambient temperature fluctuations.