title: A statistical approach based on accumulated degree-days to predict decomposition-related processes in forensic studies.
abstract: Using pig carcasses exposed over 3 years in rural fields during spring, summer, and fall, we studied the relationship between decomposition stages and degree-day accumulation (i) to verify the predictability of the decomposition stages used in forensic entomology to document carcass decomposition and (ii) to build a degree-day accumulation model applicable to various decomposition-related processes. Results indicate that the decomposition stages can be predicted with accuracy from temperature records and that a reliable degree-day index can be developed to study decomposition-related processes. The development of degree-day indices opens new doors for researchers and allows for the application of inferential tools unaffected by climatic variability, as well as for the inclusion of statistics in a science that is primarily descriptive and in need of validation methods in courtroom proceedings.
authors.affiliation: Département de biologie, Université de Moncton, Moncton, New Brunswick, E1A 3E9, Canada.
authors.forename: Jean-Philippe
authors.initials: JP
authors.lastname: Michaud
authors.forename: Gaétan
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Moreau
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004175:Diptera; D004772:Entomology; D005247:Feeding Behavior; D018732:Forensic Anthropology; D049429:Forensic Pathology; D023421:Models, Animal; D011180:Postmortem Changes; D012044:Regression Analysis; D012621:Seasons; D013552:Swine; D013696:Temperature