Thesis
Digital histology for the estimation of the post-mortem submersion interval (PMSI) of bone
Masters by Research, Murdoch University
2024
Abstract
The estimation of the postmortem submersion interval (PMSI) of skeletal remains can provide critical information to forensic investigations, e.g., assist identification. A fundamental of the PMSI of bone is the degradation of collagen, the most abundant organic component, that can be determined with various analytical techniques, such as the digital analysis of images taken from histological slides. Two open-source software for image digital analysis, ImageJ® and Orbit®, provide novice-friendly and accessible technology to a broad audience of forensic practitioners. However, the absence of established procedures can challenge the consistency of the interpretation of results, especially between observers. Examples of potential bias include, but are not limited to, the measurements of areas in pixels and/or in percentages, the role of the image background in colour thresholding, and the observer’s experience in histology.
The principal aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of ImageJ® and Orbit® in quantifying the degradation of collagen in images taken from histological slides of non-human bones submerged for 4 months to 2 years. The secondary outcomes are the identification of potential intra- and interobserver bias factors and the establishment of a functional workflow, to enable reliable data comparison finalised to the generation of a predictive model of collagen degradation, confirmed by statistical analysis. In the case of satisfactory outcomes, practitioners will be able to use both software with -relatively- limited training, and the digital format of the histological images will promote the application to remote casework.
Details
- Title
- Digital histology for the estimation of the post-mortem submersion interval (PMSI) of bone
- Authors/Creators
- Laura Pember
- Contributors
- Paola A. Magni OSI (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic SciencesEdda Guareschi (Supervisor)Garth Maker (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, Centre for Computational and Systems Medicine
- Awarding Institution
- Murdoch University; Masters by Research
- Identifiers
- 991005715170007891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- College of Environmental and Life Sciences; School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences
- Resource Type
- Thesis
- Note
- Research Masters with Training
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