Pub Date : 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112871
Ryan Pawlowski , Shari L. Forbes , Paul Szpak
In forensic investigations, estimation of the postmortem interval, or time since death, is essential to the legal process. The timeline of decomposition can be estimated through the use of various methods, however, these methods become less accurate or applicable in later stages. Previous stable isotope studies identify skin as a potentially useful substrate in the context of decomposition due to its durable nature, with some tissues exhibiting an increase in δ15N over time. In this study, stable isotope analysis was performed on human skin samples, collected from donors over several months within a “body farm” human decomposition facility. Changes in δ13C, δ15N, and δ34S, and the impacts of sample pretreatments (chemical lipid extraction and protein solubilization) were examined in a 2 × 2 factorial design to determine the optimal sample pre-treatments to observe decomposition-associated changes. Through examination of interactions between decomposition byproducts and chemical pretreatments, our research was able to identify relationships between temperature, decay state, and isotopic changes. Our findings suggest that while changes occur in δ13C and δ15N in bulk skin during decomposition, the isolation of individual organic compounds may provide a better means of measuring and observing decomposition-driven isotopic changes relative to isotopic analysis of bulk skin and, therefore, represent a more promising avenue of research for estimating postmortem interval.
{"title":"Stable isotopes (δ13C, δ15N, δ34S) of human skin during decomposition","authors":"Ryan Pawlowski , Shari L. Forbes , Paul Szpak","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112871","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112871","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In forensic investigations, estimation of the postmortem interval, or time since death, is essential to the legal process. The timeline of decomposition can be estimated through the use of various methods, however, these methods become less accurate or applicable in later stages. Previous stable isotope studies identify skin as a potentially useful substrate in the context of decomposition due to its durable nature, with some tissues exhibiting an increase in <em>δ</em><sup>15</sup>N over time. In this study, stable isotope analysis was performed on human skin samples, collected from donors over several months within a “body farm” human decomposition facility. Changes in <em>δ</em><sup>13</sup>C, <em>δ</em><sup>15</sup>N, and <em>δ</em><sup>34</sup>S, and the impacts of sample pretreatments (chemical lipid extraction and protein solubilization) were examined in a 2 × 2 factorial design to determine the optimal sample pre-treatments to observe decomposition-associated changes. Through examination of interactions between decomposition byproducts and chemical pretreatments, our research was able to identify relationships between temperature, decay state, and isotopic changes. Our findings suggest that while changes occur in <em>δ</em><sup>13</sup>C and <em>δ</em><sup>15</sup>N in bulk skin during decomposition, the isolation of individual organic compounds may provide a better means of measuring and observing decomposition-driven isotopic changes relative to isotopic analysis of bulk skin and, therefore, represent a more promising avenue of research for estimating postmortem interval.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112871"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146122740","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Forensic science employs scientific methodologies to investigate crimes and interpret evidentiary material. Among its many branches, biotechnology has emerged as a key discipline, enabling DNA profiling, paternity testing, and tissue identification. However, conventional molecular approaches, particularly for ribonucleic acid (RNA) extraction, remain limited by time-consuming protocols, chemical toxicity, and vulnerability to degradation. This study explores the integration of biotechnology and nanotechnology—termed nanobiotechnology—to enhance RNA isolation through the application of magnetic nanocomposites. A NiFe₂O₄@ZnO nanocomposite was synthesized via the sol–gel auto-combustion method and characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The composite was then employed for RNA extraction from biological tissue and compared with the conventional TRI reagent method in terms of yield, purity, and structural integrity. Results demonstrate that nanocomposite-assisted extraction offers a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative, underscoring its potential application in forensic investigations requiring high-quality RNA recovery from minimal or degraded samples.
{"title":"Magnetic nanocomposite-assisted RNA isolation: A nanobiotechnological approach for forensic molecular diagnostics","authors":"Rutuja Sandeep Prabhudessai, Sandeep Munjal, Inder Bhan Singh","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112866","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112866","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Forensic science employs scientific methodologies to investigate crimes and interpret evidentiary material. Among its many branches, biotechnology has emerged as a key discipline, enabling DNA profiling, paternity testing, and tissue identification. However, conventional molecular approaches, particularly for ribonucleic acid (RNA) extraction, remain limited by time-consuming protocols, chemical toxicity, and vulnerability to degradation. This study explores the integration of biotechnology and nanotechnology—termed nanobiotechnology—to enhance RNA isolation through the application of magnetic nanocomposites. A NiFe₂O₄@ZnO nanocomposite was synthesized via the sol–gel auto-combustion method and characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The composite was then employed for RNA extraction from biological tissue and compared with the conventional TRI reagent method in terms of yield, purity, and structural integrity. Results demonstrate that nanocomposite-assisted extraction offers a faster, safer, and more efficient alternative, underscoring its potential application in forensic investigations requiring high-quality RNA recovery from minimal or degraded samples.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112866"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146178461","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112868
Ceyhun Küçük , Halil İlhan Aydogdu , Hakan Efil , Murat Nihat Arslan
Introduction
Hanging is defined as a form of asphyxia caused by the suspension of the body with a ligature around the neck, where the constriction is generated by the body’s own weight. The aim of this study is to examine autopsy findings in hanging cases among children, a rare cause of death in this age group, using data collected from a forensic autopsy center.
Materials and methods
This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing electronic autopsy reports of pediatric cases referred to the Morgue Department between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2021, for the determination of the cause of death. Demographic data physical characteristics, scene-related findings and autopsy findings were analyzed.
Results
A total of 162 pediatric cases Of these, 113 (69.8 %) were male and 49 (30.2 %) were female. The age range of the cases was between 5 and 17 years, with a mean age of 15.66 ± 2.42 years. The Body Mass Index (BMI) ranged between 12.85 % and 52.94 %, with a mean of 22.14 ± 5.48 %. No statistically significant correlation was found between age or BMI and the presence of hyoid bone fracture, thyroid cartilage fracture, sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle injury, or infrahyoid muscle injury. When findings were evaluated according to the knot location (typical vs. atypical), no significant relationship was found between the knot position and hyoid bone fracture, thyroid cartilage fracture, infrahyoid muscle or SCM muscle injury.
Discussion
Compared to adult series in literature, the lower frequency of fractures, particularly of the thyroid cartilage, may be attributed to the fact that in pediatric individuals, these structures are less calcified and thus less prone to fracture.
Conclusion
This study represents one of the largest autopsy-based analyses focusing solely on pediatric hanging cases. Preventive strategies should include a careful reassessment of environmental safety to mitigate accidental deaths.
{"title":"Evaluation of hanging deaths in childhood: An autopsy study","authors":"Ceyhun Küçük , Halil İlhan Aydogdu , Hakan Efil , Murat Nihat Arslan","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112868","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112868","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Hanging is defined as a form of asphyxia caused by the suspension of the body with a ligature around the neck, where the constriction is generated by the body’s own weight. The aim of this study is to examine autopsy findings in hanging cases among children, a rare cause of death in this age group, using data collected from a forensic autopsy center.</div></div><div><h3>Materials and methods</h3><div>This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing electronic autopsy reports of pediatric cases referred to the Morgue Department between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2021, for the determination of the cause of death. Demographic data physical characteristics, scene-related findings and autopsy findings were analyzed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A total of 162 pediatric cases Of these, 113 (69.8 %) were male and 49 (30.2 %) were female. The age range of the cases was between 5 and 17 years, with a mean age of 15.66 ± 2.42 years. The Body Mass Index (BMI) ranged between 12.85 % and 52.94 %, with a mean of 22.14 ± 5.48 %. No statistically significant correlation was found between age or BMI and the presence of hyoid bone fracture, thyroid cartilage fracture, sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle injury, or infrahyoid muscle injury. When findings were evaluated according to the knot location (typical vs. atypical), no significant relationship was found between the knot position and hyoid bone fracture, thyroid cartilage fracture, infrahyoid muscle or SCM muscle injury.</div></div><div><h3>Discussion</h3><div>Compared to adult series in literature, the lower frequency of fractures, particularly of the thyroid cartilage, may be attributed to the fact that in pediatric individuals, these structures are less calcified and thus less prone to fracture.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This study represents one of the largest autopsy-based analyses focusing solely on pediatric hanging cases. Preventive strategies should include a careful reassessment of environmental safety to mitigate accidental deaths.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112868"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146122741","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-05DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112872
Linzi Wilson-Wilde , Conor Crean , Scott Ford , Susan Hitchin , Rebecca Kogios , Jose A. Lorente , Niamh Nic Daeid , Mark Pearse , Helen Tumediso-Magora , Angeline Tiong Whei Yap , Dorijan Kerzan
The International Forensic Strategic Alliance (IFSA) began as a bilateral agreement in 2004 between forensic science laboratory directors in the United States and Australia/New Zealand. IFSA has since grown to include six regional forensic science director networks involving 120 countries and 639 forensic service providers, and three strategic partners. IFSA focuses on providing global leadership and collaboration initiatives including developing Minimum Requirements Documents for emerging forensic service providers, identifying research and development priorities to promote critical forensic science research, and identifying and responding to emerging issues. This paper outlines the origins and development of IFSA, achievements and current activities as a successful model of global forensic collaboration.
{"title":"Letter to the Editor: The International Forensic Strategic Alliance – A model in global forensic collaboration","authors":"Linzi Wilson-Wilde , Conor Crean , Scott Ford , Susan Hitchin , Rebecca Kogios , Jose A. Lorente , Niamh Nic Daeid , Mark Pearse , Helen Tumediso-Magora , Angeline Tiong Whei Yap , Dorijan Kerzan","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112872","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112872","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The International Forensic Strategic Alliance (IFSA) began as a bilateral agreement in 2004 between forensic science laboratory directors in the United States and Australia/New Zealand. IFSA has since grown to include six regional forensic science director networks involving 120 countries and 639 forensic service providers, and three strategic partners. IFSA focuses on providing global leadership and collaboration initiatives including developing Minimum Requirements Documents for emerging forensic service providers, identifying research and development priorities to promote critical forensic science research, and identifying and responding to emerging issues. This paper outlines the origins and development of IFSA, achievements and current activities as a successful model of global forensic collaboration.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112872"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146192688","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-04DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112870
Lasse Pakanen , Kie Horioka , Raimo Ketola , Pirkko Kriikku , Katja Porvari
Wischnewsky spots are considered strongly associated with postmortem diagnosis of hypothermia with an unclear pathophysiology. Recent studies have suggested an association between Wischnewsky spots and diabetic ketoacidosis, yet no systematic data exist about Wischnewsky spots in other ketotic states besides hypothermia. To elucidate the pathogenesis of Wischnewsky spots, we studied their presence in relation to ketosis/ketoacidosis, glucose, urine catecholamines, and toxicological factors.
We included all medicolegal autopsies (n = 1903) with an ancillary glucose metabolism assay in the database of Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Oulu, Finland in 2019–2023. Cases were divided into hypothermia deaths, diabetes-related deaths, alcohol-related deaths, and other causes of death. The presence and extent of Wischnewsky spots were estimated from the autopsy reports. Concentrations of β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB), glucose, ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, urinary adrenaline and noradrenaline, and the presence of cyclooxygenase-1 inhibitors were assessed.
Mean BHB concentrations were higher with sparse, moderate, or extensive Wischnewsky spots compared with those with no Wischnewsky spots documented. Odds ratios for Wischnewsky spots were 3.7 with BHB concentration ≥ 0.5 mmol/L, 3.6 with BHB concentration > 2.5 mmol/L, 4.8 with positive blood acetone, 3.6 with positive urine acetone, and 2.2 with adrenaline-noradrenaline ratio > 0.1876.
Our findings showed a clear, concentration-dependent association between BHB concentration and the presence of Wischnewsky spots irrespective of the underlying cause of death. Our results indicate that Wischnewsky spots are linked to disturbances in glucose metabolism, not exclusively to hypothermia, highlighting the diagnostic importance of postmortem BHB measurement.
{"title":"Wischnewsky spots relate to ketosis/ketoacidosis regardless of the cause of death – A systematic autopsy study","authors":"Lasse Pakanen , Kie Horioka , Raimo Ketola , Pirkko Kriikku , Katja Porvari","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112870","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112870","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Wischnewsky spots are considered strongly associated with postmortem diagnosis of hypothermia with an unclear pathophysiology. Recent studies have suggested an association between Wischnewsky spots and diabetic ketoacidosis, yet no systematic data exist about Wischnewsky spots in other ketotic states besides hypothermia. To elucidate the pathogenesis of Wischnewsky spots, we studied their presence in relation to ketosis/ketoacidosis, glucose, urine catecholamines, and toxicological factors.</div><div>We included all medicolegal autopsies (n = 1903) with an ancillary glucose metabolism assay in the database of Forensic Medicine Unit, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare, Oulu, Finland in 2019–2023. Cases were divided into hypothermia deaths, diabetes-related deaths, alcohol-related deaths, and other causes of death. The presence and extent of Wischnewsky spots were estimated from the autopsy reports. Concentrations of β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB), glucose, ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, urinary adrenaline and noradrenaline, and the presence of cyclooxygenase-1 inhibitors were assessed.</div><div>Mean BHB concentrations were higher with sparse, moderate, or extensive Wischnewsky spots compared with those with no Wischnewsky spots documented. Odds ratios for Wischnewsky spots were 3.7 with BHB concentration ≥ 0.5 mmol/L, 3.6 with BHB concentration > 2.5 mmol/L, 4.8 with positive blood acetone, 3.6 with positive urine acetone, and 2.2 with adrenaline-noradrenaline ratio > 0.1876.</div><div>Our findings showed a clear, concentration-dependent association between BHB concentration and the presence of Wischnewsky spots irrespective of the underlying cause of death. Our results indicate that Wischnewsky spots are linked to disturbances in glucose metabolism, not exclusively to hypothermia, highlighting the diagnostic importance of postmortem BHB measurement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112870"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146137394","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) is a promising method for rapid, portable, and isothermal DNA detection in forensic applications. In this study, we developed and optimized an RPA assay targeting the Y-chromosome-specific TSPY4 gene, referred to as FORT-TSPY (Field On-site Rapid Test), for the rapid and direct detection of male DNA. An optimal primer pair was identified through multiple rounds of screening using a primer-walking strategy. The optimal primer concentration for efficient amplification was determined using male DNA samples, revealing that primer concentration is not simply a matter of higher or lower being better, but rather that an optimal concentration exists. The assay demonstrated excellent sensitivity, detecting as little as 1.2 × 101 copies (∼10-11 ng) of plasmid DNA within 30 min, without the need for complex laboratory equipment. Furthermore, the method exhibited high specificity for male DNA, with no cross-reactivity observed with female or non-human DNA. Randomized testing under simulated forensic conditions indicated the assay's potential for on-site male DNA detection. Collectively, these results demonstrate that RPA-based FORT‑TSPY provides a rapid, equipment‑minimal alternative or adjunct to laboratory PCR workflows and illustrates the broader adaptability of the FORT Field On‑site Rapid Test platform for point‑of‑evidence nucleic acid detection.
{"title":"An isothermal amplification-based field on-site rapid test for direct detection of male DNA via the Y-specific TSPY4 gene.","authors":"Lei You, Zhiwei Li, Jumei Zhang, Mingyang Han, Luyao Zhong, Xianming Shi, Jun Lv, Junhong Zhao, Chen Li, Lanlan Zheng, Yonghong Zhang","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112858","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112858","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) is a promising method for rapid, portable, and isothermal DNA detection in forensic applications. In this study, we developed and optimized an RPA assay targeting the Y-chromosome-specific TSPY4 gene, referred to as FORT-TSPY (Field On-site Rapid Test), for the rapid and direct detection of male DNA. An optimal primer pair was identified through multiple rounds of screening using a primer-walking strategy. The optimal primer concentration for efficient amplification was determined using male DNA samples, revealing that primer concentration is not simply a matter of higher or lower being better, but rather that an optimal concentration exists. The assay demonstrated excellent sensitivity, detecting as little as 1.2 × 10<sup>1</sup> copies (∼10<sup>-11</sup> ng) of plasmid DNA within 30 min, without the need for complex laboratory equipment. Furthermore, the method exhibited high specificity for male DNA, with no cross-reactivity observed with female or non-human DNA. Randomized testing under simulated forensic conditions indicated the assay's potential for on-site male DNA detection. Collectively, these results demonstrate that RPA-based FORT‑TSPY provides a rapid, equipment‑minimal alternative or adjunct to laboratory PCR workflows and illustrates the broader adaptability of the FORT Field On‑site Rapid Test platform for point‑of‑evidence nucleic acid detection.</p>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"383 ","pages":"112858"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146212739","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-04DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112869
Ana María Salazar Roa , Patricia Huerta , Luis Felipe Montoya , Viviana Coliboro , Ariel Fernando Castro , Anna Barbaro
In tragic events, teeth are valuable source of DNA due to their protective properties. However, temperature is a key factor that alters DNA structure, with degradation being directly proportional to both the temperature and duration of exposure.
Objective
This preliminary study aimed to determine the DNA recovery yield from human teeth exposed to 400°C for varying durations.
Methodology
Fifteen healthy permanent molars were collected (following informed consent procedures), divided into three groups of five teeth each, and exposed to 400°C for 15, 30, and 60 min. The teeth were pulverized, DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA Investigator Kit, and quantification was performed via spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD post-hoc tests.
Results
A significant decrease in DNA concentration was observed with increasing exposure time. The 15-minute group yielded significantly higher DNA concentrations compared to the 30- and 60-minute groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups regarding DNA purity (260/280 ratio).
Conclusion
DNA recovery from teeth exposed to 400°C is feasible, but further studies are required to determine the quality of the genetic material for conclusive forensic identification. This study provides valuable evidence to guide future research and the development of standardized protocols for DNA extraction and quantification in highly degraded forensic scenarios.
{"title":"DNA evaluation in teeth subjected to various thermal conditions: A preliminary study","authors":"Ana María Salazar Roa , Patricia Huerta , Luis Felipe Montoya , Viviana Coliboro , Ariel Fernando Castro , Anna Barbaro","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112869","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112869","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In tragic events, teeth are valuable source of DNA due to their protective properties. However, temperature is a key factor that alters DNA structure, with degradation being directly proportional to both the temperature and duration of exposure.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This preliminary study aimed to determine the DNA recovery yield from human teeth exposed to 400°C for varying durations.</div></div><div><h3>Methodology</h3><div>Fifteen healthy permanent molars were collected (following informed consent procedures), divided into three groups of five teeth each, and exposed to 400°C for 15, 30, and 60 min. The teeth were pulverized, DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA Investigator Kit, and quantification was performed via spectrophotometry. Statistical analysis included ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD post-hoc tests.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>A significant decrease in DNA concentration was observed with increasing exposure time. The 15-minute group yielded significantly higher DNA concentrations compared to the 30- and 60-minute groups (p < 0.05). No significant differences were found between groups regarding DNA purity (260/280 ratio).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>DNA recovery from teeth exposed to 400°C is feasible, but further studies are required to determine the quality of the genetic material for conclusive forensic identification. This study provides valuable evidence to guide future research and the development of standardized protocols for DNA extraction and quantification in highly degraded forensic scenarios.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112869"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146164773","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112859
Geoffrey Stewart Morrison
Scott & Rogers (2026) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2025.112673 promotes the use of the likelihood-ratio framework in forensic anthropology. This is welcome. Unfortunately, Scott & Rogers (2026) uses an incorrect formula for the calculation of likelihood ratios. This incorrect formula did not originate in Scott & Rogers (2026). It has, for some time, been used in the forensic anthropology literature; an earlier occurrence appears in Steadman et al. (2006) https://doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.20393. Scott & Rogers (2026) also uses confusing language and mathematical notation that are non-standard compared to the norms of the forensic-inference-and-statistics literature. This letter to the editor is offered in the hope that it will help prevent repetition of these problems.
Scott & Rogers (2026) https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2025.112673提倡在法医人类学中使用似然比框架。这是受欢迎的。不幸的是,Scott & Rogers(2026)使用了一个不正确的公式来计算似然比。这个错误的公式并不是起源于Scott & Rogers(2026)。一段时间以来,它一直被用于法医人类学文献;Steadman et al. (2006) https://doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.20393中出现了更早的情况。斯科特和罗杰斯(2026)也使用了令人困惑的语言和数学符号,与法医推理和统计文献的规范相比,这些符号是非标准的。这封给编辑的信是希望它能帮助防止这些问题的再次发生。
{"title":"Incorrect formula for calculation of likelihood ratios used in forensic anthropology: Comments on Scott & Rogers (2026)","authors":"Geoffrey Stewart Morrison","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112859","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112859","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Scott & Rogers (2026) <span><span>https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2025.112673</span><svg><path></path></svg></span> promotes the use of the likelihood-ratio framework in forensic anthropology. This is welcome. Unfortunately, Scott & Rogers (2026) uses an incorrect formula for the calculation of likelihood ratios. This incorrect formula did not originate in Scott & Rogers (2026). It has, for some time, been used in the forensic anthropology literature; an earlier occurrence appears in Steadman et al. (2006) <span><span>https://doi.org/10.1002/ajpa.20393</span><svg><path></path></svg></span>. Scott & Rogers (2026) also uses confusing language and mathematical notation that are non-standard compared to the norms of the forensic-inference-and-statistics literature. This letter to the editor is offered in the hope that it will help prevent repetition of these problems.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112859"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146141642","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-02-03DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112862
Geoffrey T. Desmoulin , Marc-André Nolette , Theodore E. Milner
Less lethal munitions are frequently used for crowd control during protests and riots. The injuries inflicted by impacts from less lethal projectiles can range from minor contusions to severe head trauma. Two common types of less lethal projectiles are beanbag rounds and foam rounds. Both have been frequently deployed in crowd control scenarios and have been occasionally responsible for severe head injuries (Rajaram et al., 2022). Forensic investigations may be required to determine the type of less lethal projectile responsible for an injury. In an effort to develop a reliable, cost-effective approach to address this issue, we have conducted preliminary tests in which less lethal projectiles were fired at targets covered with synthetic skin. The objective of the study was to determine whether the defect patterns created by the less lethal projectile impacts could provide a means of distinguishing between scalp wounds created by beanbag rounds and foam rounds. Our preliminary tests were able to identify several features of the defect patterns which indicate the utility of synthetic skin as substrate for differentiating between scalp wounds due to impacts between these two types of less lethal projectiles. In particular, we found that the size of the defect, the extent of the penetration, the likelihood of laceration and the presence of stippling were features that distinguished beanbag round impacts from foam round impacts
在抗议和骚乱期间,杀伤力较小的弹药经常用于控制人群。杀伤力较小的弹丸所造成的伤害从轻微挫伤到严重的头部创伤不等。两种常见的低杀伤力炮弹是豆袋弹和泡沫弹。两者都经常被部署在人群控制场景中,偶尔会造成严重的头部伤害(Rajaram et al., 2022)。可能需要法医调查来确定造成伤害的较不致命的弹丸的类型。为了开发一种可靠的、具有成本效益的方法来解决这一问题,我们进行了初步试验,向覆盖着人造皮肤的目标发射了杀伤力较低的射弹。该研究的目的是确定由杀伤力较小的弹丸撞击产生的缺陷模式是否可以提供一种区分豆袋弹和泡沫弹造成的头皮伤口的方法。我们的初步测试能够确定缺陷模式的几个特征,这些特征表明合成皮肤作为基底的效用,可以区分这两种低致命性弹射物造成的头皮伤口。特别是,我们发现缺陷的大小,穿透的程度,撕裂的可能性和点状的存在是区分豆袋圆形撞击和泡沫圆形撞击的特征。
{"title":"Less lethal projectile wound pattern identification using synthetic skin","authors":"Geoffrey T. Desmoulin , Marc-André Nolette , Theodore E. Milner","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112862","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112862","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Less lethal munitions are frequently used for crowd control during protests and riots. The injuries inflicted by impacts from less lethal projectiles can range from minor contusions to severe head trauma. Two common types of less lethal projectiles are beanbag rounds and foam rounds. Both have been frequently deployed in crowd control scenarios and have been occasionally responsible for severe head injuries (Rajaram et al., 2022). Forensic investigations may be required to determine the type of less lethal projectile responsible for an injury. In an effort to develop a reliable, cost-effective approach to address this issue, we have conducted preliminary tests in which less lethal projectiles were fired at targets covered with synthetic skin. The objective of the study was to determine whether the defect patterns created by the less lethal projectile impacts could provide a means of distinguishing between scalp wounds created by beanbag rounds and foam rounds. Our preliminary tests were able to identify several features of the defect patterns which indicate the utility of synthetic skin as substrate for differentiating between scalp wounds due to impacts between these two types of less lethal projectiles. In particular, we found that the size of the defect, the extent of the penetration, the likelihood of laceration and the presence of stippling were features that distinguished beanbag round impacts from foam round impacts</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112862"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146156714","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
In a follow up to a previous paper [6], this article continues the exploration of fibres recovered from the respiratory tract in smothering cases. Specifically, this second part examines the transfer of fibres when smothering has occurred as compared to legitimate exposures to the textile in question. In order to simulate these activities, volunteers breathed through textiles of various levels of shedding under conditions of strain and at rest. Fibres were then self-recovered from the nose and mouth for the counting of target fibres that have transferred. The results demonstrate a noticeable difference between the two activities in terms of the quantity of fibres transferred. This difference is increasingly marked for higher levels of shedding. The findings from this paper and from part 1 were then utilized to assign probabilities which were subsequently used to evaluate findings of two hypothetical scenarios meant to represent commonly encountered case disputed issues. The results further highlight the potential for such traces to aid in suspected smothering cases. In general, low number of fibres (<5) support propositions of non-smothering whereas larger quantities (>15) typically support those of smothering. The count of fibres at which the support switches is highly dependent on the shedding of the textile. It is thus important to consider shedding and the quantity of fibres recovered in such cases.
{"title":"Textile fibres in the respiratory tract part 2: Transfer during smothering vs legitimate activities","authors":"Joanne Bonvin , Maude Yerly , Yu Chen Lim-Hitchings , Sabine Hess , Kyra Lunstroot , Geneviève Massonnet","doi":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112864","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112864","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In a follow up to a previous paper [6], this article continues the exploration of fibres recovered from the respiratory tract in smothering cases. Specifically, this second part examines the transfer of fibres when smothering has occurred as compared to legitimate exposures to the textile in question. In order to simulate these activities, volunteers breathed through textiles of various levels of shedding under conditions of strain and at rest. Fibres were then self-recovered from the nose and mouth for the counting of target fibres that have transferred. The results demonstrate a noticeable difference between the two activities in terms of the quantity of fibres transferred. This difference is increasingly marked for higher levels of shedding. The findings from this paper and from part 1 were then utilized to assign probabilities which were subsequently used to evaluate findings of two hypothetical scenarios meant to represent commonly encountered case disputed issues. The results further highlight the potential for such traces to aid in suspected smothering cases. In general, low number of fibres (<5) support propositions of non-smothering whereas larger quantities (>15) typically support those of smothering. The count of fibres at which the support switches is highly dependent on the shedding of the textile. It is thus important to consider shedding and the quantity of fibres recovered in such cases.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":12341,"journal":{"name":"Forensic science international","volume":"382 ","pages":"Article 112864"},"PeriodicalIF":2.5,"publicationDate":"2026-02-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146178426","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}