Ernst R. Kirch

Determination of ethanol in fresh and putrefied post mortem tissues

Abstract Ethanol in various post mortem tissues was determined by different methods of analysis. The samples analyzed were collected and stored under various conditions. Decreases as well as increases in the alcohol content were observed depending upon the time and temperature of storage. From the results obtained it is recommended to store the samples under frozen conditions or refrigerated and fluoridated to minimize fluctuations. The variations of ethanol in blood obtained from human cadavers stored up to 90 days are also reported.

Isolation and identification of morphine from postmorteum tissues.

Abstract A procedure for the determination of morphine in forensic material has been investigated with the result that a rather rapid and reliable method is available now. Specific recommendations are made using a certain filter paper in order to reduce the loss of the alkaloid. It was further established that a concentration of greater than 5% of hydrochloric acid resulted in an appreciable loss of morphine when used to cleave the glucuronide. Modifications in the solvents for the thin-layer chromatographic separations facilitated the isolation of morphine. The free morphine was determined by ultra violet spectroscopy and gas-liquid chromatography. It was further established that urine and bile are the specimens of choice, followed by liver and kidney. The concentrate of the alkaloid in blood and spleen is relatively low and samples of spinal and ocular fluid were found to be free of morphine in most cases tested.