Pubic symphysis The part of the pubic bone that joins with the other pubic bone at the front of the pelvis. Reference sample A standard sample against which another sample can be compared. Reliability The reliability of a result is its stability when the test is undertaken by different observers in different places at different times. Responsibility The duty to perform a task or function properly. Reviewability One of the aims of the autopsy is that it (and indeed the whole death investigation) should be conducted in such a way that another forensic doctor or pathologist at another time can independently come to his/her own conclusions about the death. This enables conclusions to be drawn about the reliability of the autopsy and the conclusions arising from it. Rigor mortis Post-mortem stiffening of the body. Sample (or exhibit) degradation The loss or alteration of the characteristics of a sample (or exhibit) that it possessed at the time it came into existence, was found, or was collected. In a forensic context, this means that the sample’s ability to contribute to the investigation is reduced. Security (of exhibits) The process, including documentation, whereby an exhibit is secured such that it is evident whether or not it has been accessed, and if so, when and by whom. Sexual dimorphism The two different shapes of some bones, associated with males and females (which only becomes readily apparent after puberty). Skeletal remains The bony remains of the dead body after all soft tissue has been lost following decomposition. Stature Height. Taphonomy The study of all the (usually natural) processes that can affect a dead body. Theodolite A precision survey instrument which simultaneously measures angles in the horizontal and vertical planes. Modern versions (such as a total station theodolite) include electronic readers as well as distance measuring devices. Tibia The larger of the two lower leg bones. Transparency (of processes) Degree to which processes can be evaluated externally because their details are available to be examined. Underlying cause of death The disease or condition initiating the chain of events leading to death (often with intervening intermediate and immediate – or proximate – causes of death). Validity In relation to a measure or a result, the extent to which the measure or result reflects the truth of the phenomenon. Wound A significant discontinuity in the surface of a structure, most often in the skin, e.g. incised wound, stab wound, gunshot would, laceration. It does not include a bruise or an abrasion. 55