Next generation forensic taphonomy: Automation for experimental, field-based research.

Determining the post-mortem interval (PMI) is often a critical goal in forensic casework. Consequently, the discipline of forensic taphonomy has involved considerable research efforts towards achieving this goal, with substantial strides made in the past 40 years. Importantly, quantification of decompositional data (and the models derived from them) and standardisation in experimental protocols are being increasingly recognised as key components of this drive. However, despite the discipline's best efforts, significant challenges remain. Still lacking are standardisation of many core components of experimental design, forensic realism in experimental design, true quantitative measures of the progression of decay, and high-resolution data. Without these critical elements, large-scale, synthesised multi-biogeographically representative datasets - necessary for building comprehensive models of decay to precisely estimate PMI - remain elusive. To address these limitations, we propose the automation of taphonomic data collection. We present the world's first reported fully automated, remotely operable forensic taphonomic data collection system, inclusive of technical design details. Through laboratory testing and field deployments, the apparatus substantially reduced the cost of actualistic (field-based) forensic taphonomic data collection, improved data resolution, and provided for more forensically realistic experimental deployments and simultaneous multi-biogeographic experiments. We argue that this device represents a quantum leap in experimental methodology in this field, paving the way for the next generation of forensic taphonomic research and, we hope, attainment of the elusive goal of precise estimation of PMI.

Precocious natural mummification in a temperate climate (Western Cape, South Africa).

The general process and pattern of decomposition is well-documented and understood. However, specific environmental conditions may alter this pattern and prematurely terminate the decay process. An example of this is natural mummification - a preservative process characterized by desiccation, brittleness and shrinkage of the skin and body tissues. It is important to understand how, when, and where such variations may occur, and for this reason environmentally-specific studies of decay are required. The aim of the present study was the establish baseline data on soft-tissue decomposition in two terrestrial habitats in the Western Cape. A total of 16 pig carcasses serving as analogues for humans were deployed in these habitats during two successive winters and summers between 2014 and 2016. The rate and pattern of decomposition were assessed via measurement of weight loss over time and scoring the decomposition process using Megyesi et al. (2005) Total Body Score system and study-specific criteria for mummification. Carcasses typically followed the expected pattern of decay with a few exceptions, most notably instances of rapid natural mummification. Natural mummification, as defined by Megyesi et al. (2005), was observed to occur as early as 17 days postmortem, with five carcasses mummifying in less than one month. The timing of natural mummification varies widely, from a few days to several years, averaging around three months in temperate regions. Natural mummification occurring in less than one month is termed precocious mummification and is rarely observed in temperate regions. With only three reports globally, this study's findings are globally significant, highlighting the importance of regionally-specific decomposition studies. Two local forensic cases wherein precocious mummification has been observed are also presented and, considered together with the study's results, a possible mechanism driving this process is proposed.