Diagnostic models to predict nuclear DNA and mitochondrial DNA recovery from incinerated teeth.

Teeth are frequently used for human identification from burnt remains, as the structure of a tooth is resilient against heat exposure. The intricate composition of hydroxyapatite (HA) mineral and collagen in teeth favours DNA preservation compared to soft tissues. Regardless of the durability, the integrity of the DNA structure in teeth can still be disrupted when exposed to heat.

The development of a tool to predict temperature-exposure of incinerated teeth using colourimetric and hydroxyapatite crystal size data.

This study presents a novel tool to predict temperature-exposure of incinerated pig teeth as a proxy for understanding impacts of fire on human teeth. Previous studies on the estimation of temperature-exposure of skeletal elements have been limited to that of heat-exposed bone. This predictive tool was developed using a multinomial regression model of colourimetric and hydroxyapatite crystal size variables using data obtained from unheated pig teeth and teeth incinerated at 300 °C, 600 °C, 800 °C and 1000 °C.

Integrating spectrophotometric and XRD analyses in the investigation of burned dental remains.

Heat alters colour and crystallinity of teeth by destruction of the organic content and inducing hydroxyapatite crystal growth. The colour and crystallite changes can be quantified using spectrophotometric and x-ray diffraction analyses, however these analyses are not commonly used in combination to evaluate burned dental remains. In this study, thirty-nine teeth were incinerated at 300-1000 °C for 15 and 30 min and then measured using a spectrophotometer and an x-ray diffractometer.

Scanning electron microscope and micro-CT evaluation of cranial sutures in health and disease.

Current knowledge of suture biology has been ascertained as a result of morphological studies of normal cranial sutures (and rarely those undergoing craniosynostosis). These were initially undertaken often using histological investigations, or more recently using CT scans, as investigative tools, but have often used animal models. However, recent technological advances have provided the potential to refine our understanding of the ultrastructure by the use of new advanced scanning technology, which offers the possibility of more detailed resolution.

Kinetics of adsorption of high molecular weight anionic polyacrylamide onto kaolinite: the flocculation process.

The adsorption kinetics of anionic polyacrylamide flocculant onto kaolinite clay are examined as a function of flocculant dosage and pH. Special attention has been given to the flocculation effect during the adsorption process and the resulting inhibition of further adsorption. At pH 8.

Effects of chemical functional groups on the polymer adsorption behavior onto titania pigment particles.

The effects of functional groups on polymer adsorption onto titania pigment particles have been investigated as a function of pH and ionic strength using polyacrylic acid and modified polyacrylamides. The polyacrylamides include the homopolymer, an anionic copolymer with hydroxyl and carboxylate group substitution, and a nonionic copolymer with hydroxyl group substitution. Adsorption isotherms and infrared spectroscopy were used to examine the polymer-pigment interactions.