title: Virtual forensic anthropology: Novel applications of anthropometry and technology in a child death case.
abstract: Full-body 3D virtual reconstructions were generated using 3D technology and anthropometry following the death of a young girl, allegedly from severe malnutrition as a result of abuse and neglect. Close range laser scanning, in conjunction with full colour digital texture photography, was used to document the child's condition shortly after death in order to demonstrate the number and pattern of injuries and to be able to demonstrate her condition forensically. Full-body digital reconstructions were undertaken to illustrate the extent of the malnutrition by comparing the processed post mortem scans with reconstructed images at normal weight for height and age. This is the first known instance of such an investigative tool.
authors.affiliation: University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Division of Imaging Research and Applied Anatomy, Tampa, FL 33612, USA. sdavyjo1@health.usf.edu
authors.forename: Stephanie Lynn
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Davy-Jow
authors.forename: Duncan M B
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Lees
authors.forename: Sean
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Russell
mesh_terms: D000886:Anthropometry; D002648:Child; D002649:Child Abuse / Q000175:diagnosis; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005260:Female; D018732:Forensic Anthropology / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D044342:Malnutrition / Q000175:diagnosis; D010781:Photography; D012016:Reference Values; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000473:pathology