Archiv für Kriminologie
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Archiv für Kriminologie · Sep 2014
[Semi-structured interviews on suicidality in the Hamburg pre-trial detention center].
A detailed study regarding inmates' suicides was conducted in the detention center of Holstenglacis Hamburg (UHA). This study was triggered by an above-average number of attempted and committed suicides in detention centers in Germany and in particular, two committed suicides in the above-mentioned prison in early 2012. ⋯ This article presents the most striking results of the study which are used as a basis for proposing several preventative measures. The aim of this article is to present new ideas and methods conducive to a decrease in the number of suicides in detention centers at minimal costs and personnel expenses.
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Archiv für Kriminologie · Sep 2014
[Conventional radiology versus the increasing importance of post-mortem computed tomography].
Radiological imaging can provide valuable additional information, facilitate and improve the quality of subsequent autopsy. Although the use of cross-sectional imaging methods is increasing, they are not always available in medico-legal practice. In many cases it is advisable to perform conventional X-rays before autopsy, especially in cases of gunshot injuries, as illustrated by a case in which the victim suffered several gunshot wounds with one projectile lodged in a vertebral body. The radiological findings essentially contributed to the rapid location of the projectiles and the reconstruction of the bullet paths.
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A problem of forensic photography, especially when using direct flashlight, is the appearance of highlights on wet or shiny surfaces because of light reflections. Highlights can cause considerable difficulties if they interfere with relevant findings, because in a flare image information is reduced. ⋯ Second, powdering such surfaces with rice powder can eliminate disruptive flares even when using direct flashlight but causes visible artefacts when using higher magnifications. As our study showed, bounce flash photography is an easy way to reduce highlights on photographs without the application of complex techniques or methods that may even alter relevant findings.
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Archiv für Kriminologie · Mar 2013
Comparative Study[Legal issues of physician-assisted euthanasia. Part III--Passive euthanasia, comparison of international legislation, conclusions for medical practice].
The generic term "passive euthanasia" includes different issues dealing with the omission, discontinuation or termination of life-sustaining or life-prolonging medical treatments. The debate around passive euthanasia focuses on the constitutional right of self-determination of every human being on the one hand and the constitutional mandate of the State to protect human life on the other. Issues of passive euthanasia always require a differentiated approach. ⋯ In this context it is not important, however, whether treatment is discontinued by an active act or by omission. Under certain circumstances, the termination of life-sustaining measures can also be permitted if they are no longer medically indicated. Looking to other European countries and the USA it becomes evident that euthanasia is the subject of controversial discussion and interpretation not only in Germany.
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Archiv für Kriminologie · Jan 2013
Review[Legal issues of physician-assisted euthanasia. Part II--Help in the dying process, direct and indirect active euthanasia].
In Germany, physician-assisted euthanasia involves numerous risks for the attending physician under criminal and professional law. In the absence of clear legal provisions, four different categories of euthanasia have been developed in legal practice and the relevant literature: help in the dying process, direct active euthanasia, indirect active euthanasia and passive euthanasia. The so-called "help during the dying process" by administering medically indicated analgesic drugs without a life-shortening effect is exempt from punishment if it corresponds to the will of the patient. ⋯ Nevertheless, the action may be subject to punishment if the physician omits to rescue the life of an unconscious suicide victim. "Palliative sedation" is regarded as a special case. It may become necessary if certain symptoms in the terminal stage of a fatal disease unbearable for the patient cannot be controlled by any other means. The legal assessment of "palliative sedation" depends on the circumstances of the individual case, in particular the "informed consent" of the patient and the physician's intention.