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Several authors have suggested theoretical approaches that support the practices of forensic scientists, including adherence to the evidential paradigm and the centrality of the concept of trace, both included in the Sydney Declaration. The objective of this paper was to continue the construction of an integrated theoretical model, which incorporates the epistemological, methodological and practical dimensions of the forensic scientist's work. Therefore, these new discussions found in the literature will be incorporated, as well as some established traditional concepts. A synthesis theory was elaborated from basic concepts and practices related to the following procedures performed by forensic scientists: a) use of laws derived from other sciences to assert causes associated with state changes observed in a trace; b) use of inferences and experimentation for the reconstruction of the criminal event and detection of trace arrangement patterns in criminal scenarios. The formulation of a coherent, hierarchical and systematic framework provides subsidies for facing some challenges in forensic science, such as: evaluating the role of cognitive bias in certain phases of the forensic scientist's work; the determination of a coherent curriculum that aggregates the essential competences for forensic analysis and the improvement of the predictive potential of forensic science in intelligence studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Training is an essential component of onboarding new hires in forensic science service provider (FSSP) laboratories. There are several DNA training standards published by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) Academy Standards Board (ASB) American National Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited framework. In this study, we conducted a survey of forensic DNA laboratory training programs to better understand training activities and materials. The survey was approved by the IRB and emailed to forensic laboratory directors, assistant directors, and/or DNA technical leaders and responses were submitted by them or their designees. Over thirty leaders and stakeholders responded. In this article, we report on the results of the survey. Respondents indicated that training activities included readings, writing assignments and quizzes, shadowing analysts, and mock casework and that training is documented and is a collaborative effort of the technical leader, unit supervisor, advanced forensic scientists, and other analysts and technicians. Laboratories assess competency using multiple methods including performance on mock casework, report writing, laboratory practical and competency tests, and a mock trial and testimony. The top three training activities reported are hands‐on practice, shadowing, and readings. The top three focuses of the training are laboratory techniques (extraction, quantitation, amplification, and capillary electrophoresis), STR typing, and mixture analysis. Ethics violations and failure to pass the competency tests and mock trial, even after remediation, are the top reasons new hires fail training. Finally, the top items respondents would like to spend more time offering training on are troubleshooting, validation, and root cause analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For decades, detectives and forensic scientists have relied on friction ridge skin comparisons to identify individuals in criminal investigations. This method involves examining (latent) fingermarks, typically captured as two‐dimensional (2D) images, and comparing them with known inked impressions or scans. The comparisons focus on general patterns, the location and orientation of minutiae, and additional characteristics like scars or pores. However, this common process overlooks other potentially valuable factors, such as handedness, biological sex, and the time since deposition, which could provide crucial investigative leads, especially in cases with partial or unclear ridge patterns. This study explored the potential of three‐dimensional (3D) optical profilometry (OP) to observe changes in fingermarks ridge height and volume over 7 days while considering hand dominance and biological sex. The results indicated that all the assessed 3D metrics were generally consistent in detecting the effects of sex and handedness, mostly noticeable on aged fingermarks. Specifically, females and impressions from their non‐dominant hand exhibited higher values. Additionally, the influence of time was evident, with fresh fingermarks showing significantly larger ridges in terms of height and volume. These findings suggest that 3D OP can enhance the probative value of fingermarks by inferring additional characteristics such as sex, handedness, and the age of the impression. These activity‐level propositions could provide useful information in cases where only partial or poor‐quality fingermarks are recovered, providing new data dimensions that could lead to more comprehensive forensic examinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While estimating postmortem interval (PMI) ambient temperature plays a pivotal role, so its reconstruction is crucial for forensic scientists. The recommended procedure is to correct temperatures from the nearest meteorological station based on measurements from the death scene; typically applying linear regression. Recently, there have been attempts to use different algorithms, that can improve that correction, for example GAM algorithm. Unfortunately, the improvements are usually a consequence of using more dependent variables than just the temperature from the death scene (e.g. humidity), which is impractical. This study develops practical new methods to accurately reconstruct ambient temperatures at a death scene, using just temperature measurements. Since the main difficulty preventing practitioners from using the correction protocol more frequently is likely the need to record temperatures on-site for at least several days, we searched for possibilities to shorten the measurement period. For this purpose, we tested two less popular algorithms to achieve this goal. The concurrent regression model (the model from the functional data analysis field) for the mid-term reconstruction (measurements lasting several days) and the functional model based on Fourier expansion for the short-term reconstruction (measurements lasting a few hours). The algorithms' performance was tested using data collected in six places: a roof and an attic of a heated building, an unheated garage inside the heated building, an unheated wooden shack, an uninhabited building, and an underground (the data logger was buried about 30 cm below the ground level). We classified these locations as quasi-indoor conditions, contrasting them with typical indoor conditions, where temperatures are nearly constant, and typical outdoor conditions, where there is no heat insulation. The mid-term model reduced error compared to the linear regression, providing nearly perfect reconstruction for measurement periods longer than six days. More importantly, however, the accuracy of short-term reconstruction was also high. The short-term model closely matched the concurrent regression model's performance after only four to five hours of measurements. In practice, both methods are very similar to the standard procedure. The main difference is the change in the algorithm and its implementation. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that correction of weather station temperatures can provide fairly accurate temperature data for use in estimating PMI after only 4-5 h of measurements on a death scene. • Application of the concurrent regression model for temperature reconstruction. • New method for short-term temperature reconstruction based on Fourier expansion. • Reduced on-site temperature measurement period from several days to just 4-5 h. • Improvements to forensic temperature reconstruction using only death scene data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Short tandem repeat (STR) typing has been regularly used in paternity disputes and forensic human identification linked caseworks. Occasionally, forensic scientists come across aberrant allele patterns during STR typing because of mutations, genetic variations, and other abnormalities. The tri-allelic pattern of STR is rare, particularly, the case where this pattern exists at 4 loci. Here, we report the type II tri-allelic patterns observed at vWA, SE33, D8S1179, and D13S317 loci in the product of conception (POC) sample during the course of our regular paternity case investigation. The DNA extracted from the blood samples and tissue of POC were subjected to STR typing for autosomal and sex STR loci using the commercial QIAGEN's Investigator® IDplex Plus Kit and QIAGEN's Investigator® 24plex QS Kit. Capillary electrophoresis was carried out in 3500 and 3500xL Genetic Analyzer Applied Biosystems and genotyped using GeneMapper ID-X Software v1.5 and v1.6. In this case of paternity inclusion, the POC sample displayed type II tri-allelic patterns at vWA (16, 19, 20), SE33 (19, 28.2, 29.2), D13S317 (16, 19, 20), and D8S1179 (10, 13, 17) loci. In addition, the POC displayed an abnormal genotype with a heterozygous peak imbalance (type II-B) of (1:2) pattern at D3S1358, D21S11, and D16S539 loci, of (2:1) pattern at D1S1656, D12S391, D10S1248, D2S1338, D2S441, D18S317, FGA, CSF1PO, and D5S818 loci, and type II-C allelic pattern (one single peak with triplicate height) at D19S433 and DS7820 loci. Understanding of such anomalous genotypes improves the knowledge about tri-allelic pattern of CODIS loci and helps in the appropriate interpretation of the results in STR typing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review is engaged in determining the capability of plant pollen as a significant source of evidence for the linkage between suspects and crime location in forensic sciences. Research and review articles were collected from Google Scholar, the Web of Science, and PubMed. Articles were searched using specific keywords such as "Forensic Palynology," "Pollen metabarcoding," "Plant forensics," and "Pollen" AND "criminal investigation." Boolean logic was also utilized to narrow the articles to be included in this review article. Through the literature and exploratory research, it has been observed in the current study that with advancements in technology, forensic palynology has found its application in creating an association between the crime scene and suspected individuals to have a link to it, as pollen DNA is a long-lasting investigative tool that can effectively help forensic investigations. Moreover, the literature shows that the DNA of pollen and spores has helped forensic scientists link suspects to crime scenes, and the introduction of pollen DNA metabarcoding tools has eased the efforts of palynologists to analyze pollen DNA. The introduction of DNA metabarcoding techniques to analyze pollen from plants has helped identify the geological locations of the plants and ultimately identify the culprit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of our study are to analyze the correlations between professors' professional skills, communication skills and attitudes on knowledge management. We worked on this study based on the basic theory of management theory and social science developed work assumptions and new conceptual models which were used by international researchers in their studies. The survey was conducted online channel by 112 professors, which made it possible to classify and compare some of the results. We used SMART PLS-3.0, a qualitative research program, to analyze correlational, multifactorial, and pathologies, and to summarize the results of the forensic scientist's analysis of how factor variables affect knowledge management. Our study can be significant to consider both theoretical and practical issues and inserting further most necessary practices at Ikh zasag International University, Mongolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of NTM Zeitschrift für Geschichte der Wissenschaften, Technik und Medizin is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The categories that states use to classify and govern migrants often diverge from how migrants themselves perceive and experience their conditions, biographies, and identities. Building on this insight, I argue in this article that state categories not only clash with migrants' varied notions of categories: state categorization itself often relies on multiple definitions of categories and methods of categorization. Age assessments of young refugees in Germany demonstrate this multiplicity. These assessments are carried out by forensic medical examiners and social workers, respectively, who work with very different understandings of what constitutes age. While forensic scientists view age as countable, particular, and objective, social workers think of it as lived, assembled, and constructed. What I term the classificatory multiplicity of the state complements current scholarly endeavors aimed at critically examining state categories, particularly in the context of migration governance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various samples—including two vials with a pharmaceutical appearance—were submitted to the laboratory for identification. The aim of this work was to describe the unique characteristics observed during the analysis of the powder contained in the vial. Samples were submitted to HPLC‐DAD, UHPLC‐TOF‐MS, and/or UPLC‐MS–MS analysis. The majority of the samples were easily identified as standard drugs of abuse. The main difficulty lay in identifying the powder in the vials. No match was found in the library through HPLC‐DAD analysis. Fortunately, the vials were labeled as "Melanotan II", although the UV spectrum was not available. Mass spectrometric analysis of melanotan II was challenging, as it is a small peptide with a molecular weight of 1024 Da, which is significantly heavier than classical drugs that the laboratory usually handles. As a result, mass spectrometer's parameters can be limited to detect masses up to 1000 Da. Additionally, melanotan II is multi‐charged which is also unusual for compounds typically targeted in our daily work. Finally, the reference standard allowed us to confirm the identification with both instruments, and determine the purity of 30%. Melanotan II is not approved on the market due to safety concerns. It is used illegally mainly for tanning, explaining its nickname "Barbie drug". To conclude, analysis of melanotan II was challenging as it is heavy and doubly charged. Moreover, its UV spectrum was initially not available in the literature. The difficulties faced by forensic scientists in detecting this drug may explain its popularity on the illicit market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Three generations of ASR systems evaluated for validity and reliability. • Advanced systems yield better validity but not necessarily higher reliability. • Forensic ASR system validation should focus on both discrimination and reliability. • Forensic scientists need to develop measurement processes. • Forensic scientists need to establish tolerable variation. In forensic comparison sciences, experts are required to compare samples of known and unknown origin to evaluate the strength of the evidence assuming they came from the same- and different-sources. The application of valid (if the method measures what it is intended to) and reliable (if that method produces consistent results) forensic methods is required across many jurisdictions, such as the England & Wales Criminal Practice Directions 19A and UK Crown Prosecution Service and highlighted in the 2009 National Academy of Sciences report and by the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology in 2016. The current study uses simulation to examine the effect of number of speakers and sampling variability and on the evaluation of validity and reliability using different generations of automatic speaker recognition (ASR) systems in forensic voice comparison (FVC). The results show that the state-of-the-art system had better overall validity compared with less advanced systems. However, better validity does not necessarily lead to high reliability, and very often the opposite is true. Better system validity and higher discriminability have the potential of leading to a higher degree of uncertainty and inconsistency in the output (i.e. poorer reliability). This is particularly the case when dealing with small number of speakers, where the observed data does not adequately support density estimation, resulting in extrapolation, as is commonly expected in FVC casework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic chemistry literature has grown exponentially, with many analytical techniques being used to provide valuable information to help solve criminal cases. Among them, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI MS), particularly MALDI MS imaging (MALDI MSI), has shown much potential in forensic applications. Due to its high specificity, MALDI MSI can analyze a wide variety of compounds in complex samples without extensive sample preparation, providing chemical profiles and spatial distributions of given analyte(s). This review introduces MALDI MS(I) to forensic scientists with a focus on its basic principles and the applications of MALDI MS(I) to the analysis of fingerprints, drugs of abuse, and their metabolites in hair, medicine samples, animal tissues, and inks in documents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defining the nature of forensic science and criminalistics is a topic that has been vigorously revisited in international literature. At the core of this discussion is the demarcation of principles that would characterize forensic science as an autonomous science, with its methods. The concept of theoretical synthesis as elaborated by Walker and Avant (2011) was adopted. In this theoretical model, concepts and principles are organized in a coherent and integrated way. In this first paper, the theory synthesis was elaborated from basic concepts and practices related to the work of the forensic scientist. Basically, the procedures for searching and collecting traces and the analytical methods of identification and individualization of traces. The theory synthesis was mainly developed based on: a) the reasoning method adopted in cognitive operations by forensic scientists; b) the way of obtaining information and interpreting phenomena from observation of facts and traces; c) how forensic scientists perform their investigations, analysis or synthesis from evidence and its main practical limitations. In short, the proposed theory synthesis reinforces the idea that forensic science is a specific science, capable not only of applying technologies and using scientific methods but also of producing knowledge inherent to its performance and scope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil forensics is not only a well‐established research domain but has also been used in numerous successful international searches for burials and as trace evidence to help police and law enforcement in solving criminal, environmental and terrorism investigations. However, despite the confidentiality and legal constraints in case work in many parts of the world, some actual case studies using soil materials as evidence in court hearings have been published in international journals and books. This paper presents a case from the Campania region in Italy where soil analysis played a pivotal role. Employing a multiscale integrated approach encompassing soil microtomography, morphology, chemical analysis and geography, the study aimed to discern the origin of questioned soil residues found on a victim of crime. Results highlight the significance of considering spatial variability and an appropriate choice of analytical methods. The sequential and multiscale approach facilitated timely investigation without incurring unnecessary costs. Soil morphological and chemical analysis revealed inconsistencies between soil on the victim and soil at the suspected crime scenes, narrowing the investigative area down to approximately one square km. While detailed sampling did not yield statistically significant results, the evidence provided crucial insights, aiding investigators in working out what happened and helped in building a narrative around their case. The analysis indicated contact with a primary scene where the victim was likely dragged (over a Calcisol) and a final deposition site (over an Andosol) where the body was found. While potential murder sites were excluded, final guilt attribution remained inconclusive, and as in all trace evidence evaluation, it is not the role of the forensic soil scientist to consider the level of guilt, but to provide factual soil forensic evidence to assist the justice system. This study exemplifies the use of soil forensics in informing criminal investigations and highlights the complexities that can be involved in establishing comparability between soil samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pilot project is presented, in which two metal sculptures involved in a real case managed by the Brazilian Federal Police underwent microscopical examination and analysis by forensic scientists, including Raman and XRF spectroscopies and SEM-EDX, made possibly by damage sustained when they were vandalized. The findings are interpreted from the points of view of both materials history and material culture. Both sculptures had previously been described as patinated bronze but were found to have been cast in zinc, a popular material for sculpture in the nineteenth century, with their original patination later removed. The investigation showed that the bronze-colored polychromy then applied consisted of materials used by Brazilian Concrete artists of the 1950s and 1960s, and could be related to the re-siting of the capital of Brazil from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia in the same period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The scientific article reveals the issue of identifying and characterizing the circumstances to be established during the investigation of illegal employment in fish, game or other water extractive fishing. As a result of thorough research and analysis of publications by criminologists and proceduralists, it was found that at the current stage of development, the specified issue remains insufficiently researched. Distinguished positions of scientists who determine that the development of separate methods of investigation of criminal offenses should begin with the definition of the range of tasks and circumstances to be established. As a result of the analysis of forensic scientists and generally recognized circumstances to be established, it has been proven that the circumstances that need to be clarified in the course of detected illegal actions related to illegal water extractive fishing should include: the event of illegal water extractive fishing in terms of the presence of forensically significant signs of an offense under Art. 249 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine (time, place, circumstances of preparation, commission, concealment; tools, means and method of use; identity of the criminal, motives and purpose), as a priority, since a timely and objective assessment of the analyzed situation allows prompt and correct adoption of relevant organizational decisions regarding the initiation of a pre-trial investigation, which will positively affect the next stage; culpability in committing a criminal offense, form of guilt, motive and purpose of committing a criminal offense (the main thing is whether the signs of the committed act fall under the legal prohibitions of fishing; what exact requirements were violated when fishing was carried out); the type and amount of significant damage caused as a result of illegal fishing; the amount of material damage caused to the environment by an illegal act; identification of witnesses to the event, as well as circumstances that affect the severity of the committed criminal offense (presence of accomplices, group nature, mass fishing, etc.). Clarification of the circumstances highlighted in the scientific article contributes to the proper further organization of the investigation of illegal employment in fish, game or other water extractive fishing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Foramen magnum (FM) is the largest foramen in the skull. Through foramen magnum cranial cavity communicates with the vertebral canal.Foramen magnum region in different ethnic populations has significant differences between the sexes in their populations. The metric examinations show significantly higher values on male skull bases than on female skull bases. Sexual dimorphism is one of the major areas of interest to anatomists, anthropologists, skeletal biologists, forensic scientists and other specialists. Objectives: To assess computed tomographic based measurements of foramen magnum dimensions in determination of gender and age in Kashmiri population. Methods: A total of 252 (119 males and 133 females) CT skull images ofadult population with individuals age range above skeletal immaturity (age above 20 years) wasdone. Analysis of CT images was done on a PACS workstation monitor along with an experienced radiologist. 3D multi-planar reformation on CT console was done with reformation lines oriented along the lower most points of basion and opisthion (sagittal plane) and the mid-point of cervical spinal canal at C1/C2 level (coronal plane) to get the maximum cross-sectional area of foramen magnum. Results: The mean anteroposterior diameter among males was3.66+0.43cmwhile among females it was 3.55+0.39cm with 95% confidence interval [-0.008 to 0.211]. The association was statistically significant with [p=0.03] and t-value 2.12. The mean transverse diameter was 3.45+0.59cm among males and 3.43+0.65cmamong femaleswith 95%confidence interval [-0.134 to-0.174]. The association was found statistically insignificant with [p=0.79] and t-value 0.25. The mean A.P, transverse, circumference, areaamong>40yearswas3.69+0.58cm, 3.47+0.65cm, 8.04+3.04cmand30.91+3.71cm² respe ctively. Tetragonal, irregular and rounded shape was observed in (12.3%), (8.3%), and (4.8%) cases respectively. Pentagonal and diamond shape was found in 1.6% and 0.4% respectively. Conclusion: Data collected in present investigation could serve as database for the quantitative description of dimensions of foramen magnum during normal growth and development considering sex and ethnic related variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a response to an article that discussed the analysis of a DNA mixture found on a plastic bag containing illegal drugs. Two different probabilistic genotyping (PG) programs, STRmix™ and TrueAllele®, were used to compare the defendant's DNA profile to the mixture, producing different exculpatory findings. Individuals associated with both programs have responded, providing new data to explain the differences. However, it remains unclear which findings are more reliable, and further research is needed. The article focuses on three validation studies of TrueAllele, which suggest that the software may produce unreliable results. The author calls for standards and guidelines for the admissibility of TrueAllele evidence in court and criticizes the way the company presents its findings. The article concludes by emphasizing the need for the forensic science community to address these issues through the standards development process. [Extracted from the article]

With the global whisky market reaching $65.6 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $89.48 billion by the end of 2029, the incentives for fraud in relation to (and adulteration of) this alcoholic beverage are self-evident. Law enforcement agencies worldwide have taken actions against crimes of this nature, with forensic scientists playing crucial roles (mainly through expert testimonies on sample authenticities) during legal proceedings. Important issues associated with Scotch whisky authentication include: (a) understanding the typical manufacturing process; (b) acquisition of reference samples; and (c) effective utilization of instrumentations to characterize features derived from the manufacturing process and strategic approaches for the interpretation of analytical findings. Following a brief review of the definition/classification, manufacturing, and adulteration/counterfeiting of Scotch whiskies, this review focuses on the characterization of manufacturing-derived features and interpretation of analytical findings as grouped into: (a) quantitative analysis of single compounds; (b) qualitative analysis and intensity ratio of multiple compounds; (c) chemometric analysis of selected multi-compounds; and (d) quantitative analysis of selected elements. Finally, a flowchart for conducting the authentication process, from various significantly different perspectives, is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parasites are ubiquitous, diverse, and have close interactions with humans and other animals. Despite this, they have not garnered significant interest from forensic scientists, and their utility as indicators in criminal investigations has been largely overlooked. To foster the development of forensic parasitology we explore the utility of parasites as forensic indicators in five broad areas: (i) wildlife trafficking and exploitation, (ii) biological attacks, (iii) sex crimes, (iv) criminal neglect of humans and other animals, and (v) indicators of movement and travel. To encourage the development and growth of forensic parasitology as a field, we lay out a four-step roadmap to increase the use and utility of parasites in criminal investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a seasoned forensic scientist and practitioner with more than two decades of experience spanning both industry and research, I have invested considerable time in reflecting on the current state and future direction of forensic science. This reflection, fuelled by my recent participation in a professional conference (The 23rd Triennial Meeting of the International Association of Forensic Sciences (IAFS)), has reinforced my perspective on the industry's advancement and the critical areas requiring attention to promote positive reform. In this narrative, I articulate the insights garnered during the plenary panel session, firmly grounded in a vision for the field's advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The horizontal plates of the palatine bone, the pre-maxilla, and the palatine processes of the maxilla combine to form the hard palate, an essential part of the skull. It has an arched structure with varied depth and breadth, is widest in the molar area, and separates the oral cavity from the nasal cavity. This vital anatomical structure plays a crucial role in various forensic investigations. This study sheds light on its forensic significance, offering valuable insights for forensic scientists and anthropologists. Through meticulous analysis, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of craniofacial anatomy and its implications in forensic sciences. Future research can use the data collected from this study as a baseline in anthropometrics, dentistry, forensic sciences, and anatomy. The present study aimed to measure the morphometric characteristics of the hard palate in dried human skull bone that belonged to the North Indian population. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted on 50 dried skulls obtained from the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology and Anatomy, at Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences in Patna, Bihar. The age and sex of the skulls were not known. With the help of a digital vernier caliper, we measured the length of the hard palate, breadth of the hard palate, and height of the hard palate, palatine index (PI), and palatine height index (PHI). The obtained data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS, version 24.0) software. Results: The mean palatine length, breadth, and height in the present study were 46.30 ± 3.87 mm, 32.73 ± 2.66 mm, and 11.27 ± 2.03 mm, respectively. The mean values of the palatine index and palatine height index were 71.12 ± 7.80 mm and 34.66 ± 6.79 mm respectively. The most frequent type of hard palate was leptostaphyline (84%), followed by mesostaphyline (12%) according to the palatine index, while brachystaphyline type (4%) was the least commonly reported. While, the most frequent type of hard palate was orthostaphyline (62%), followed by hypsistaphyline (20%) according to the palatine height index, while the chemostaphyline type (18%) was the least commonly reported. Conclusion: The study's information will be helpful in the fields of anthropometric, dental, and medical sciences. A thorough anatomical knowledge of the hard palate is essential for executing certain surgical treatments in the hard and soft palate, anthropological research, complete maxillary denture fabrication for edentulous patients, and ethnic and racial classification of crania. Oral maxillofacial surgeons may benefit from knowledge of the palatal index when performing surgery to fix a cleft palate or lip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species identification of biological specimens can provide the valuable clues and accelerate the speed of prosecution material processing for forensic investigation, especially when the case scene is inaccessible and the physical evidence is cumbersome. Thus, establishing a rapid, simple, and field-adapted species identification method is crucial for forensic scientists, particularly as first-line technology at the crime scene for initial rapid screening. In this study, we established a new field-adapted species identification method by combining multiplex multienzyme isothermal rapid amplification (MIRA), lateral flow dipstick (LFD) system, and universal primers. Universal primers targeting COX I and COX II genes were used in multiplex MIRA-LFD system for seven species identification, and a dedicated MIRA-LFD system primer targeting CYT B gene was used to detect the human material. DNA extraction was performed by collecting DNA directly from the centrifuged supernatant. Our study found that the entire amplification process took only 15 min at 37 °C and the results of LFDs could be visually observed after 10 min. The detection sensitivity of human material could reach 10 pg, which is equivalent to the detection of single cell. Different common animal samples mixed at the ratio of 1 ng:1 ng, 10 ng:1 ng, and 1 ng:10 ng could be detected successfully. Furthermore, the damaged and degraded samples could also be detected. Therefore, the convenient, feasible, and rapid approach for species identification is suitable for popularization as first-line technology at the crime scene for initial rapid screening and provides a great convenient for forensic application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Evaluated a multistep mutation model in detail for interpretation of Y-STR profiles. • Proved mathematically that the rate and step parameters can be estimated separately. • Bayesian Beta-Binomial & Beta-Geometric updating for rate & step parameters. • Showed the danger of reporting a parameter point estimate without its variation range. • Showed that there is not enough published data to estimate allele range parameter. If Y-STR profiling is to be more effective in criminal casework, the methods used to evaluate evidential weight require improvement. Many forensic scientists assign an evidential weight by estimating the number of times a Y-STR profile obtained from a questioned sample has been observed in YHRD datasets. More sophisticated models have been suggested but not yet implemented into routine casework, e.g. Andersen & Balding [1]. Mutation is inherent to STR meiosis (or inheritance) and is encountered in practice. We evaluated a mutation model that can be incorporated into a method for assigning evidential weight to Y-STR profiles, an essential part of bringing any method into practice. Since an important part of implementation to casework is communication, the article is written in an accessible format for practitioners as well as statisticians. The mutation component within the MUTEA model by Willems et al. [2] incorporates the potential for multistep mutations and a tendency for alleles to revert towards a central length, reflecting observed mutation data, e.g. [3]. We have estimated the parameters in this model and in a simplified symmetric version of this model, using sequence data from father/son pairs [4] and deep-rooted pedigrees [5]. Both datasets contain multistep mutations, which may have an effect on models based on simulations [1]. We introduce Beta-Binomial and Beta-Geometric conjugate analyses for estimating rate and step parameters for the mutation models presented here, which require only summations and multiplications. We proved mathematically that the parameters can be estimated independently. We show the importance of reporting the variability of the parameters and not only a point estimate. The parameters can be easily incorporated into statistical models, and updated sequentially as more data becomes available. We recommend fuller publication of data to enable the development and evaluation of a wider range of mutation models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Socio-legal ethnographies have focused largely on the dramaturgical themes present in the competing performances seen in adversarial trials. Drawing on ethnographic observations of British homicide investigations, we illuminate the hidden "backstage" space of prosecution barristers' case conferences. Using Goffman's dramaturgical framework, we analyze the interactions, deliberations, and negotiations that are enacted between barristers, homicide detectives, forensic scientists, and other specialists. To our knowledge, the work that happens in these conferences has never been documented. Our findings reveal how prosecution narratives evolve and are tested behind the scenes before being performed in court. We pay particular attention to the role of anticipatory work in guiding how criminal justice actors choreograph the prosecution case. The findings add to our understanding of narrative case building and elaborate Goffman's dramaturgical framework. We discuss the implications of our findings for due process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Homemade explosives become a significant challenge for forensic scientists and investigators. In addition to well-known materials such as acetone peroxide trimer, black powder, or lead azides, perpetrators often produce more exotic and less recognized Homemade Explosives (HMEs). Mixtures of hydrogen peroxide with liquid fuels are widely acknowledged as powerful explosives. Interestingly, similar explosive properties are found in mixtures of numerous solid materials with H2O2. Notably, powdered groceries, such as coffee, tea, grounded spices, and flour, are particularly interesting to pyrotechnics enthusiasts due to their easy production using accessible precursors, which do not attract the attention of security agencies. H2O2-based HMEs may become a dangerous component of improvised explosive devices for terrorists and ordinary offenders. For the four most powerful mixtures—HMEs based on coffee, tea, paprika, and turmeric—molecular markers useful for identification using the GC–MS technique have been proposed. Furthermore, the observed time-dependent changes in mixtures of H2O2 with these food products were studied and evaluated as a potential method for assessing the age of the evidence and reconstructing timelines of crimes. The paper also discusses the usefulness of FT-IR spectroscopy for identifying H2O2-based HMEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of methods for the analysis of new psychoactive substances (NPS) is continually increasing, and there is no indication that this trend will change in the near future. The constantly growing market of "designer drugs" makes it necessary to develop new methods of their analysis. The aim of this review is to present the multi-component methods of detection and identification of NPS using low-resolution tandem mass spectrometry coupled with liquid chromatography. For this purpose, 36 articles were selected by applying strictly defined search criteria. Due to the large differences in the matrices and physicochemical properties of the analytes, the described research methods are diverse. These differences are visible in sample preparation methods, chromatographic columns, mobile phases, gradients, or additives to mobile phases used. This work collects and organizes the existing information on the subject of NPS screening analysis methods and will be helpful to forensic scientists working on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traces from bodies can be of various nature, for example of biological or inorganic origin. Some of these historically have received more consideration than others in forensic practice. Samplings of gunshot residues or biological fluid traces are commonly standardized, whereas macroscopically invisible environmental traces are usually ignored. This paper simulated the interaction between a cadaver and a crime scene by placing skin samples on the ground of five different workplaces and inside the trunk of a car. Traces on samples were then investigated through different approaches: the naked eye, episcopic microscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (ED-XRF). The purpose is to provide the forensic scientist with the awareness of the value of debris on skin and then to highlight implications for forensic investigations. Results demonstrated that even naked eye observation can reveal useful trace materials, for defining the possible surrounding environment. As a next step, the episcopic microscope can increase the number of visible particulates and their analysis. In parallel, the ED-XRF spectroscopy can be useful to add a first chemical composition to the morphological data. Finally, the SEM–EDX analysis on small samples can provide the greatest morphological detail and the most complete chemical analysis, although limited, like the previous technique, to inorganic matrices. The analysis of debris on the skin, even with the difficulties due to the presence of contaminants, can provide information on the environments involved in criminal events that can add to the investigation framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology has been a part of science fiction novels and the subject of speculative research in secret laboratories, Nowadays, nanotechnology is one of the most promising and controversial emerging technologies among existing technologies Nanotechnology involves the manipulation of materials at the atomic and molecular level, typically at a scale less than 100 nanometers. At this scale, materials exhibit unique properties and behaviors, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. this study delves into how nanotechnology is transforming the world of forensic science and The Role of Nanotechnology in Forensic Investigation. and focuses a reality in applying nanotechnology at crime scenes, detecting criminals, and assisting judicial officers and forensic scientists as experts assigned by the prosecution to give a detailed report on the crime, and i discussed the concept and nature of nanotechnology and the use of this technology at crime scenes, as well as its validity in criminal proof. The result of this study is This technique has the authority to prove it before a criminal judge as material evidence, and the Public Prosecution can rely on it to file a criminal case In a Forensic Investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In forensic science, latex gloves are used to prevent law enforcement personnel from contaminating crime scenes or evidence with DNA or marks from the hands. Law enforcement personnel, however, are not the only people who want to avoid leaving DNA or latent marks at a crime scene. Perpetrators of crimes may also wear latex gloves. Alas, several forensic scientists reported that in certain cases even while wearing latex gloves, fingerprints transferred to adhesive tapes while attempting to process the tape for latent marks. Pressure sensitive tapes tend to be ideal surfaces for recovering latent marks and are commonly encountered in criminal cases involving drug packaging, explosive devices, or violent crimes (e.g., binding a victim's hands and feet). When a latent mark is developed on the adhesive surface of the tape, it may not be obvious if the latent mark was made by a bare finger or a gloved finger. Knowing that a suspect wore gloves could sometimes discourage the investigation unit from performing fingermark development procedures, as the odds to recover evidence successfully are limited. This study examines the feasibility of the transfer of friction ridge details through latex gloves to different types of adhesive tapes and uncovers the required conditions and a possible mechanism for the occurrence of this phenomenon. The findings of this work show that it is possible to develop and identify fingermarks transferred originally by gloved fingers. This study also shows that visualization of ridge details on adhesive tapes surfaces contain unique characteristics, which aid differentiating between bare or gloved hands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wound age estimation is the core content in the practice of forensic medicine. Accurate estimation of wound age is a scientific question that needs to be urgently solved by forensic scientists at home and abroad. Metabolomics techniques can effectively detect endogenous metabolites produced by internal or external stimulating factors and describe the dynamic changes of metabolites in vivo. It has the advantages of strong operability, high detection efficiency and accurate quantitative results. Machine learning algorithm has special advantages in processing high-dimensional data sets, which can effectively mine biological information and truly reflect the physiological, disease or injury state of the body. It is a new technical means for efficiently processing high-throughput big data. This paper reviews the status and advantages of metabolomic techniques combined with machine learning algorithm in the research of wound age estimation, and provides new ideas for this research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Government agencies are embracing the rhetoric of public value, but what does the empirical evidence tell us about drivers of its creation? One critical source of insight are the practitioners who turn public investment into public value through complex forms of labour. This article identifies how public value is interpreted and created by forensics scientists in the Criminal Justice System using Q Methodological interviews. The results indicate that two very similar types of forensic scientist exist The study finds that while the decisions of scientists are grounded in their expertise, their public value motivations are to 'add value' to the public through their science. They serve the citizen through their science. They do not serve the consumer, client or victim directly. The findings also indicate that there is a need to recognise hidden forms of value-added activity that take place upstream in public-value chains, ensuring that there are systems in place to maximise their impact downstream. Points for practitioners: Forensic scientists are motivated to serve the public, not the consumer or customer. In order to build capacity within Criminal Justice Systems, agency leaders need to build a relationship based on mutual professional respect rather than a supplier–consumer relationship. If administrative reform is to be guided by academic research, practitioners should use the language of public value rather than the language of new public management. Public value is often created through inter-institutional value chains that can conceal the contribution of upstream value-added activity to desirable public outcomes. It is critical that the value-added process is traced on an inter-institutional basis, and maximised through effective forms of inter-institutional collaboration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research examines the impact of creating and presenting 3D visualizations and 3D printed models of human skeletal remains in relation to the cultural and ethical values of Māori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa New Zealand. Within Aotearoa, there is a complex history where Māori have not been consulted regarding the introduction of new technologies and systems, which ultimately had negative consequences for Māori. Using a decolonizing research approach, interviews (N = 12) and a focus group (N = 2) were conducted to identify key concepts regarding the sovereignty of these novel forms of digital data through a Māori cultural framework. For Māori, human skeletal remains are sacred; this research explored key questions including Māori Data Sovereignty and Rights, and what the digital data from human remains represents for Māori. Particular themes were identified regarding consultation with whānau (extended family) about the usefulness of the data to justice outcomes, and the rights of whānau to access, storage and disposal of the digital data, and subsequent printed 3D models. The core discussion across all participants related to tikanga Māori (Māori protocols) regarding the creation and interpretation of data, and the need for wider consultation with forensic scientists, lawyers, judges, Police and iwi (tribes) across Aotearoa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors of this document respond to previous recommendations regarding the use of fully continuous models (FCMs) in forensic science in Germany. They explain that FCMs are not currently widely implemented due to the expectation that different experts using different models should yield similar results, which is not the case with FCMs. The authors emphasize the importance of calibrating FCM programs and suggest a cautious interpretation of likelihood ratios (LRs) below a certain threshold to avoid overstating the probative value of evidence. They also clarify that their recommendations are adapted to the German legal framework and provide support for their approach from calibration data. [Extracted from the article]

Health professionals especially nurses have ongoing contact with patients and they may have a high incidence of musculoskeletal problems. For this reason, grip strength and carrying angle are important parameters for all health professionals to succeed in their job and avoid injuries. It was aimed to determine the effects of the hand grip, and pinch strength, carrying angle of dominant, and non-dominant hands as well as the association of the hand functional index with morphometric measurements in 193 nursing students. The means of the carrying angle of dominant and non-dominant sides were 169.11±4.21° and 168.16±4.30°, respectively. The means of the dominant and, non-dominant sides of hand grip strength were 45.99±11.24 kg and 45.89±11.34 kg, respectively. The lateral pinch strength means were measured as 19.55±3.75 kg and 19.31±3.45 kg, respectively. This paper's findings may be important for some experts such as anatomists, clinicians, surgeons, forensic scientists, anthropologists, and nurses-healthcare professionals keep in touch with patients. Also, we believe that appropriate and effective knowledge of carrying angle, hand grip and lateral pinch strength has created an opportunity to research in terms of reducing work-related risk factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimating the time since death (post mortem interval, PMI) represents one of the most important tasks in daily forensic casework. For decades, forensic scientists have investigated changes in post mortem body composition, focusing on different physical, chemical, or biological aspects, to discover a reliable method for estimating PMI; nevertheless, all of these attempts remain unsuccessful considering the currently available methodical spectrum characterized by great inaccuracies and limitations. However, recent promising approaches focus on the post mortem decomposition of biomolecules. In particular, significant advances have been made in research on the post mortem degradation of proteins. In the present study, we investigated early post mortem changes (during the first 24 h) in the proteome profile of the pig skeletal muscle looking for new PMI specific biomarkers. By mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics, we were able to identify a total of nine potential PMI biomarkers, whose quantity changed constantly and progressively over time, directly or inversely proportional to the advancement of post mortem hours. Our preliminary study underlines the importance of the proteomic approach in the search for a reliable method for PMI determination and highlights the need to characterize a large number of reliable marker proteins useful in forensic practice for PMI estimation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Studies in Politics & Society / Polityka & Społeczeństwo is the property of University of Rzeszow and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In the past, pattern disciplines within forensic science have periodically faced criticism due to their subjective and qualitative nature and the perceived absence of research evaluating and supporting the foundations of their practices. Recently, however, forensic scientists and researchers in the field of pattern evidence analysis have developed and published approaches that are more quantitative, objective, and data driven. This effort includes automation, algorithms, and measurement sciences, with the end goal of enabling conclusions to be informed by quantitative models. Before employing these tools, forensic evidence must be digitized in a way that adequately balances high‐quality detail and content capture with minimal background noise imparted by the selected technique. While the current work describes the process of optimizing a method to digitize physical documentary evidence for use in semi‐automated trash mark examinations, it could be applied to assist other disciplines where the digitization of physical items of evidence is prevalent. For trash mark examinations specifically, it was found that high‐resolution photography provided optimal digital versions of evidentiary items when compared to high‐resolution scanning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FORENSIC CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION IS A FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENT OF THE JUSTICE INVESTIGATION PROCESS. IT IS OFTEN THE FIRST STAGE AT WHICH EVIDENCE IS COLLECTED, DOCUMENTED AND ANALYSED, AND THE QUALITY OF THIS INVESTIGATION CAN HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE SUBSEQUENT SUCCESS OF SOLVING THE CASE. TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS EVIDENTIAL PROCESS, WE NEED TO FOCUS ON THE CONTEXT AND MOTIVATIONS BEHIND THE CRIME SCENE FORENSIC INVESTIGATION. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACHES HAVE BROUGHT SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS TO THE FIELD, ALLOWING INVESTIGATORS TO OBTAIN MORE ACCURATE EVIDENCE AND SOLVE CASES MORE EFFICIENTLY. TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS HAVE BROUGHT WITH THEM THE EXPANDED USE OF ADVANCED IMAGING TECHNIQUES, DNA AND BIOMETRICS ANALYSIS, COMPUTER SIMULATIONS AND MORE, PROVIDING INVESTIGATIONS WITH A RICHER ARSENAL OF TOOLS. ONE OF THE MOST OBVIOUS PURPOSES OF CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATION IS THE IDENTIFICATION AND APPREHENSION OF OFFENDERS. BY COLLECTING EVIDENCE, INCLUDING PHYSICAL TRACES, BIOLOGICAL EVIDENCE AND INTELLIGENCE, FORENSIC SCIENTISTS HELP ESTABLISH THE IDENTITY OF SUSPECTED CRIMINALS, WHICH FACILITATES THE PROSECUTION PROCESS. THE QUALITY OF EVIDENCE COLLECTED AND DOCUMENTED AT THE SCENE HAS A DIRECT IMPACT ON THE JUDICIAL PROCESS. WEAK OR INADEQUATE EVIDENCE CAN LEAD TO FAILURES IN COURT, WHILE STRONG AND WELL-MANAGED EVIDENCE CAN STRENGTHEN THE CASE FOR THE PROSECUTION OR DEFENCE. THIS UNDERLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF CRIME SCENE FORENSICS IN ENSURING A FAIR AND JUST TRIAL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automotive paint flakes are significant for the forensic scientists to use as the evidence for forensic purposes. Conducting the multichannel and scientific characterization and comparison of them is in urgent need to draw objective and fair conclusions, demonstrating the fair and equitable administration of justice. With the help of infrared spectroscopy (IR), Raman spectroscopy (Raman), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy disperse spectroscopy (EDS) and stereomicroscopy, the properties of three paint flakes from automobiles at the scene of the accident have been studied for forensic purposes in this paper. Primary discussion is progressed according to the stereomicroscope and SEM images, while the in-depth conclusion is proved by the component analysis acquired with EDS, IR and Raman. Furthermore, colors, thickness, sequence, microstructure and composition of layers provide much significant information. The third layers of all the samples show the significant changes clearly, indicating that sample C is different from samples A and B. However, the first, second and fourth layers give rise to consistent analysis profiles. The results of this study provide the significant fundamental information which can be used to analyze the paint flakes for forensic scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Forensic Medicine / Fayixue Zazhi is the property of Journal of Forensic Medicine Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Facial recognition errors can jeopardize national security, criminal justice, public safety and civil rights. Here, we compare the most accurate humans and facial recognition technology in a detailed lab-based evaluation and international proficiency test for forensic scientists involving 27 forensic departments from 14 countries. We find striking cognitive and perceptual diversity between naturally skilled super-recognizers, trained forensic examiners and deep neural networks, despite them achieving equivalent accuracy. Clear differences emerged in super-recognizers' and forensic examiners' perceptual processing, errors, and response patterns: super-recognizers were fast, biased to respond 'same person' and misidentified people with extreme confidence, whereas forensic examiners were slow, unbiased and strategically avoided misidentification errors. Further, these human experts and deep neural networks disagreed on the similarity of faces, pointing to differences in their representations of faces. Our findings therefore reveal multiple types of facial recognition expertise, with each type lending itself to particular facial recognition roles in operational settings. Finally, we show that harnessing the diversity between individual experts provides a robust method of maximizing facial recognition accuracy. This can be achieved either via collaboration between experts in forensic laboratories, or most promisingly, by statistical fusion of match scores provided by different types of expert. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the understanding of the concept of chemical reaction—as operationalized by Bloom's taxonomy of cognitive levels—of students in forensic science bachelor's degree with that achieved by students majoring in chemistry, as a prerequisite for future professional collaboration and communication. Using previously validated and published tests developed to assess students' knowledge, comprehension, and application of the concept of chemical reaction, we explored how conceptual understanding developed in students enrolled in (a) a forensic science degree program in a Mexican public university and in (b) chemistry undergraduate programs offered by the same university, and whether both groups achieved comparable attainment levels. Despite receiving considerably less chemical instruction, forensic science students achieved comparable levels of conceptual understanding of chemical reaction to those exhibited by chemistry students. This finding is encouraging because it might mean that future forensic scientists could graduate with a solid foundation of chemical knowledge. More research, particularly on the learning of other key concepts, will be needed to verify these initial findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]