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Under the assault of disturbing experiences that seem sealed into a bodily discourse, there appears an increased permeability between the dream space and the psychotherapy space. It is in the forensic in-patient hospital environment that I have commonly sat with a calm and compliant patient to find myself grappling with an overwhelming pull toward sleep. Such tiredness in countertransference can be understood as a manifestation of the weight of buried or repressed disturbance which can only seemingly be registered at a bodily level. Forensic patients are usually the subject of vilification from the courtrooms to sensationalist media reports in a system that further bottlenecks their emotional lives. It seems to me that sometimes there can be a fine line between continuing the trend of condemnation and the taking up of clinical responsibility. It is perhaps one of the most helpful aspects of psychoanalytic work, that we consider the projective processes involved in the criminal justice system. That we look to ourselves and our own countertransference for greater clinical clarity, a radar in the darkness. It is with this in mind that I write an introspective paper focussing on the lens of my own dream life and artistic responses to the environment of a forensic institution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Offender Personality Disorder Pathway (OPDP) was co-commissioned in 2011 to better manage high-risk offenders likely to have a personality disorder. Within the OPDP, forensic case formulation is used to develop a psychological understanding of each offender's criminal behaviour, clinical problems, and criminogenic needs. Each formulation concludes with a set of recommendations aimed at addressing the problems and needs identified. However, no research has yet investigated the effectiveness of these recommendations. To address this, the present study used a multiple case-study method to investigate the effectiveness of recommendations generated within 10 OPDP formulations. Two sets of cases were examined: 5 with positive outcomes, and 5 with negative outcomes (known as a 'two-tailed' multiple case study). When these two sets of cases were compared, a clear pattern of differences emerged in the relevance, feasibility, utility, and impact of the formulation recommendations made (in favour of cases with positive outcomes). On the basis of these results, a provisional logic model was developed to operationalise the process by which formulation recommendations were hypothesised to have contributed to outcomes in 'positive' cases, and where and why this process commonly deteriorated in 'negative' cases. Implications of these results and avenues for further study are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic Science is the application of Scientific methods to resolve crime and legal issues. It involves various disciplines, such as Computer Science, Biology, Chemistry and Anthropology. Forensic scientists examine and analyze evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, DNA, blood, or weapons. Digital proof is one of the forms of forensic evidence. It provide real time eye witness of the incident. Video recordings enable investigators to find out what exactly has transpired. Investigators use video evidence as a source for witness statements, and it aids in the search for the missing person or suspect. Video evidence is also used to testify in court and help with investigations and prosecutions. Failure of forensic science results in wrong judgement convicting innocent people and escaping criminals [1]. For most crimes high quality video recordings are often not available. video quality issues such as blurry, speckled, pixelated and low-resolution videos captured at low light are a real challenge in forensic analysis. To address such issues in this research a hybrid model using set of filters including triplemask spatial linear filter, median filter and bilateral filters are used. For denoising images, a novel image filter using sliding window convolution is proposed. For image sharpening a triplemask spatial linear filter is proposed. Triplemask spatial linear filter is created by cascading a series of filters. Identity, shift and fraction-based approach is used in mask processing. For image smoothing and to preserve the edges bilateral filter is used [2]. The performance of convolution operation is compared with distinct convolution, shift rotational convolution and scipy convolution. To handle uncertainty, imprecision, and ambiguity in real-world image data in a precise manner neutrosophic science is used in image analysis. By the generated neutrosophic set of the given input image ambiguous regions in the image are detected. Feature selection is made by calculating the entropy of different image regions. From the generated neutrosophic set entropy the degree of uncertainty, within the input image is quantified. The intensity distributions are measured using entropy values. In feature selection regions with highest and lowest entropy values containing face images are selected, visualized and processed to further aid in forensic analysis in detecting the culprits. Neutrosophic AHP is used for prioritizing criteria based on face detection and indeterminancy. Face detection is performed using single shot detector framework with a resnet base network, trained using caffe deep learning framework. face recognition process is performed using dlibs [9] state-of-the-art face recognition model built with deep learning [10]. Face recognition in this research distance-based similarity measure using neutrosophic sets is performed. These measures are used in conjunction with facenet[59] face recognition algorithm to improve the robustness and accuracy over traditional methods. The model has an accuracy of 99.38% on the labelled faces in the wild benchmark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The Dynamic Appraisal of Situational Aggression: Youth Version (DASA:YV) is a brief instrument, most often used by nurses and was specifically designed to assess risk of imminent violence in youth settings. To date, it has been recommended that DASA:YV scores are interpreted in a linear manner, with high scores indicating a greater level of risk and therefore need more assertive and immediate intervention. This study re‐analyses an existing data set using contemporary robust data analytic procedures to examine the predictive validity of the DASA:YV, and to determine appropriate risk bands. Mixed effect logistic regression models were used to determine whether the DASA:YV predicted aggression when the observations are correlated. Two approaches were employed to identify and test novel DASA:YV risk bands, where (1) three risk bands as previously generated for the adult DASA were used as a starting point to consider recategorising the DASA:YV into three risk bands, and (2) using a decision tree analysis method known as Chi‐square automated interaction detection to produce risk bands. There was no statistically significant difference between a four and three category of risk band. AUC values were 0.85 for the four‐ and three‐category options. A three‐category approach is recommended for the DASA:YV. The new risk bands may assist nursing staff by providing more accurate categorisation of risk state. Identification of escalation in risk state may prompt early intervention, which may also prevent reliance on the use of restrictive practices when young people are at risk of acting aggressively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Courts often rely on video evidence, assuming it accurately shows important legal details. Yet, studies suggest that video isn't inherently "objective" and people, including legal professionals, might misinterpret its objectivity due to video quality or context. This study aimed to explore how video speed variations and contextual information affect judgments of responsibility in a video portraying a bus assault. The study employed a 5 × 3 mixed design, with video speed (Very Slow, 0.88x; Slow, 0.96x; Neutral, 1.00x; Fast, 1.04x; Very Fast, 1.12x) as a between-subject variable, contextual information (Hit, Harm, Kill) attributed to the perpetrator's action as a within-subject factor, and dimensions of accountability, predictability, criminal intent, and severity as dependent variables. ANOVA results from a sample of 300 participants (60 per video speed condition) revealed that the highest levels of accountability, criminal intent, and predictability were attributed when the contextual information was "hit" as compared to the "harm" and "kill" actions. Furthermore, the greatest difference in accountability and criminal intent scores for the kill action was between the very fast and very slow conditions. These findings raise significant concerns about the use of video evidence in criminal proceedings, as video speed manipulation and contextual information can have a substantial impact on responsibility judgments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) is debilitating psychiatric disorder, particularly common in female and forensic populations. However, appropriate pharmacological treatment to effectively manage symptoms of EUPD remains an unmet clinical need. Dopamine receptor partial agonists (DRPAs), such as aripiprazole, have a favourable tolerability profile and have demonstrated some benefits in targeting symptoms of emotional dysregulation, although, evidence regarding the effects of novel D2/D3 DRPA cariprazine in EUPD patients has been limited. Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of cariprazine for EUPD in a case series of female forensic inpatients where the diagnosis is more prevalent. Methods: Demographic and clinical information of the patients were collected from patient electronic records during their admission in a specialized NHS forensic service. Treatment response was measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) at baseline, 3 and 6 months and Global Clinical Impression Scale (CGI-scores) at baseline and 6 months. Tolerability and BMI, ECG QTc interval and prolactin levels were recorded prior to initiation and at 6 months. Results: Eight female patients with EUPD (mean age 29.8 years, SD 5.3) were treated with cariprazine (range 3-6mg). Total CGI-scores modestly improved from 5.6 baseline to 5.0 at 6 months. There was a reduction in mean total PANSS scores from baseline to 6 months (92.5, SD 8.1 to 72.4, SD 15.8), general psychopathology (56.1 SD 6.7 to 42.5, SD9.7), positive (21.9 SD 4.6 to 17.1, SD4.8) and negative PANSS scores (14.5 SD 6.3 to 12.8, SD4.6), corresponding to a 21%, 23%, 20% and 3% mean score reduction, respectively. Cariprazine demonstrated a favourable metabolic and hormonal side effect profile with no treatment discontinuation at 6 months follow up. Conclusion: This is the first case series to evaluate the effectiveness of cariprazine in EUPD. Its efficacy in improving PANSS and CGI-S scores was overall modest and highly variable, reflective of an inherently heterogenous and comorbid patient sample but the benefits on treatment perseverance and tolerability were considerable. Cariprazine may be of particular benefit in EUPD where psychotic symptoms are co-morbid, as an augmentation strategy to clozapine, or where previous antipsychotics have caused metabolic or hormonal side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The elbow joint formed between the humerus within the arm,and the ulna and radius in the forearm permits the hand to be moved toward and far from the body.While the elbow joint is extended, the arm and forearm are not perfectly aligned,a deviation occurs laterally closer to the long axis of the arm, which is known as the “carrying angle”. Aim and objective: i)To measure the variation of carrying angle between rural and urban region of Haryana population between age group of 12-40 years. ii)To estimate the variation of carrying angle between male and female of age group of 12-40 year population of Haryana. Material and Methods: The present study consists of 230 (one hundred fifteen rural and one hundred fifteen urban subject) asymptomatic,healthy humans from urban and rural areas of the Haryana location within the age group of 12-40 years.Carrying angle was measured by using a physical goniometer made out of flexible clear plastic having each fixed and movable arm. Results: our study observed that mean of the carrying angle is 12.68º±2.14º in adult males and 15.34º±2.17º in females in rural regions. The mean carrying angle is 11.13º±1.89º in adult males and 13.50º±2.24º in females in urban areas respectively. Mean of carrying angle of males & females is larger in rural regions than in urban areas.Differences are statistically significant (p<0.001). Conclusion carrying angle is larger in male and female of rural region as compared to male and female of urban regions. Knowledge of measuring of the carrying angle and its differences are important even in assessing stressful elbow injuries in adults of rural and urban regions and other elbow deformities that require arthroplasties or reconstruction. The information in the present study may be useful for the evaluation in comparison to pathologic conditions as well as inside the management of disorders of the elbow,and is additionally beneficial as a forensic tool for sex determination. Our data may be beneficial in anthropological studies, Genetic studies, Forensics, and clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blowflies and beetles are among the invertebrate species that are attracted to dead bodies and can provide valid evidence in cases of murder or suspicious death investigation. An important consideration is the quality of the evidence which partly depends on the accurate identification of invertebrates. The morphological identification of blowflies has some limitations, especially in relation to damaged samples, or immature stages of the flies. DNA-based techniques such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and sequence analysis have been applied to overcome the shortfalls of the classical identification methods. The present study combined the use of classical and PCR methods to identify invertebrates associated with pig carrions in Nigeria. Adult invertebrates were collected on and around pig carcasses in Nigeria. A total of 416 invertebrates belonging to Diptera; Calliphoridae (n = 160), Sarcophagidae (n = 26) and Muscidae (n = 72) while Coleopterans; Dermestidae (n = 52), Histeridae (n = 63), Cleridae (n = 25) and Silphidae (n = 18) families collected from pig carrions in Nigeria were identified. The cytochrome oxidase 1 (cox1) gene from selected specimens was amplified and sequenced. Nucleotide sequence analysis and phylogenetic trees confirmed the presence of dipterans and coleopterans of forensic importance in Nigeria. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to use the mitochondrial cox1 gene coupled with sequence analysis to identify and characterize arthropods of forensic importance in Nigeria. This study provides reliable baseline data for further use in forensic entomology within the country and other regions where these arthropod species exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Service users who have spent time in seclusion describe it as a negative experience, viewing it as punishment. Although occupational therapists work within these settings, there is limited research and documentation of interventions aimed at reducing occupational deprivation in seclusion. A service evaluation was conducted at a medium secure adult mental health unit to better understand the current practices of occupational therapists working in seclusion. Methods: A bespoke tool was developed to capture occupational therapy interventions within a 12-month timeline. Results: Data showed that there were 31 interventions provided across 300 days of seclusion for 16 patients. Therapy lasted between 5 and 45 minutes involving a range of adapted interventions and resources appropriate for positive risk taking. Conclusions: Despite creative and adaptive interventions identified, provision of occupational therapy appeared sporadic and restricted by a 5-day service. This illustrates the need for specialist training and guidelines to support an integrated and consistent approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patient educator programmes have become a fundamental part of medical student education, delivering rich and transformative learning. However, little is known about the barriers and facilitators to implementing patient educator programmes for medical students in psychiatry and specifically forensic psychiatry. A systematic search of three databases with no date parameters was undertaken in November 2022, using keywords related to medical education, coproduction, patient involvement, and psychiatry. Five papers on patient educator programmes in psychiatry were located. No literature related to patient educator programmes in forensic psychiatry was identified. Facilitators include a robust policy infrastructure and transparent arrangements for safe educational practices alongside a commitment to coproduction and relational working. Barriers include epistemic injustice, the skills of professional facilitators, and a lack of supporting educational theory. There appears to be scope to deliver high-quality medical student education in forensic psychiatry through patient educator programmes with reciprocal benefits for educators such as rehabilitation, skills development, and possibly therapeutic benefits. The educational and therapeutic value of patient as educator programmes in forensic psychiatry are under-researched. Patient as educator programmes in forensic psychiatry require careful consideration regarding risk, while patients' prior involvement with the criminal justice system may increase stigma and discrimination. The complexity and risks have seldom been considered. It appears a priority to address the knowledge gap identified by this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTUnsupervised technology use by children is increasing rapidly and with it, a common area of crime is emerging: Technology Assisted-Harmful Sexual Behaviour (TA-HSB). Previous research has demonstrated that there are significant differences between adult offenders displaying TA-HSB, offline Harmful Sexual Behaviour (offline HSB) and those displaying both (dual HSB). This study aimed to investigate these differences further within a community adolescent forensic population over a period of four years (1 April 2018 to 31 March 2022). The demographic characteristics and TA-HSB typologies of an adolescent forensic population who were displaying TA-HSB (n = 43), offline HSB (n = 116) and dual HSB (n = 130) were examined. The implications for future research are discussed.This evaluation promotes a greater sense of awareness and knowledge of the characteristics of young people engaging in TA-HSB in a community adolescent forensic service and the incidence and types of TA-HSB they engage in. Findings help develop an understanding of risk formulation, differential needs and support of young people presenting with TA-HSB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abnormal shifts in global climate, leading to extreme weather, significantly threaten the safety of individuals involved in outdoor activities. Hypothermia-induced coma or death frequently occurs in clinical and forensic settings. Despite this, the precise mechanism of central nervous system injury due to hypothermia remains unclear, hindering the development of targeted clinical treatments and specific forensic diagnostic indicators. The GEO database was searched to identify datasets related to hypothermia. Post-bioinformatics analyses, DEGs, and ferroptosis-related DEGs (FerrDEGs) were intersected. GSEA was then conducted to elucidate the functions of the Ferr-related genes. Animal experiments conducted in this study demonstrated that hypothermia, compared to the control treatment, can induce significant alterations in iron death-related genes such as PPARG, SCD, ADIPOQ, SAT1, EGR1, and HMOX1 in cerebral cortex nerve cells. These changes lead to iron ion accumulation, lipid peroxidation, and marked expression of iron death-related proteins. The application of the iron death inhibitor Ferrostatin-1 (Fer-1) effectively modulates the expression of these genes, reduces lipid peroxidation, and improves the expression of iron death-related proteins. Severe hypothermia disrupts the metabolism of cerebral cortex nerve cells, causing significant alterations in ferroptosis-related genes. These genetic changes promote ferroptosis through multiple pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Any portion of the body that has sustained damage due to mechanical force is referred to as an injury or wound. Weapon use, blunt force, and sharp force can all cause mechanical injuries. In many nations, the most common method of homicide is the use of sharp objects, particularly knives. One of a forensic pathologist's main responsibilities in the realm of forensics is wound examination. By identifying prospective criminal suspects and tracking the origin and progression of violent occurrences, wound assessment supports criminal investigations. Aim: The current review provides a view on wounds/injuries, their classifications, incised wounds, how to differentiate them from lacerations, and the importance of wound examination in the field of forensics. Conclusion: In summary, researchers have classified wounds/injuries according to many factors, and they frequently emphasize the significance of wound examination in the field of forensics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The prevalence of suicide presents a significant public health challenge globally, affecting diverse populations around the world. This study is motivated by the urgency to tackle suicide as a crucial public health issue on a global level, according to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the General Programme of Work and Mental Health Action by the World Health Organization. Materials and Methods: The research was performed at the Forensic Unit of Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, spanning a retrospective analysis covering 2012 to 2021. A descriptive analysis was conducted to analyse the patterns of suicide and the sociodemographic characteristics of the cases. Results: The findings show monthly variations and a recent increase in suicide rates, especially during the pandemic of COVID-19. Analysis of suicide methods indicates that hanging is the most common suicide method, which accounts for almost half of the sample population, followed by jumping from a height and burning charcoal. Adult males are primarily implicated in suicidal acts, and the study reveals unique trends among different age groups, genders and employment statuses. Conclusion: This study aims to offer thorough insights and comprehension into suicide within the Malaysian sociodemographic framework. Consequently, it could furnish valuable insights for public health authorities and governmental bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chile is a country highly affected by natural hazards, especially scour and seismic phenomena. Therefore, throughout the twentieth century and the beginning of the twenty-first, total or partial collapses of bridges have been evidenced, particularly those that occurred in the 1960 and 2010 earthquakes. From these experiences, the Chilean Highway Administration has promoted a series of management activities in order to reduce the number of collapsed structures. In this context, since 2019 the Ministry of Public Works of Chile (MOP) supported by the Chilean universities started a program to develop the subject of forensic engineering on bridges, in order to include the methodology in the technical codes and provide a standardization of protocols for the implementation of activities in the case of the collapse of structures. The aspects included in this methodology are: Determination of volatile and non-volatile information; Actions for intervention on the structure and protection of users; Gathering of technical information through the application of tests; Review of stress–strain states through Finite Element Method (FEM); Elaboration of hypotheses and review of them through a decision tree; and, finally, Conclusions and recommendations from a technical and contractual perspective. This paper presents a detailed description of the current forensic engineering methodology in Chile and its first application in the Cancura Bridge case study. In addition, a historical compilation of Chilean bridge collapses is presented, in each case identifying the typology of the structure, the causes of collapse and the main inspection techniques used. Finally, a statistical review is carried out analyzing aspects such as stages of the life cycle where collapse has occurred: design, construction or operation, and the incidence of natural hazards in these phenomena. From this analysis, the cases of Loncomilla, Cancura and Huasco bridges are highlighted. Since the collapse of these bridges occurred without the implementation of current methodology, the article concludes on the advantages and disadvantages of the methodology, providing a comparative analysis with the inspection activities in these structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental contamination by extremophile Aspergillus species, i.e., Aflatoxin B1, is hardly controllable in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, which lack handling resources and controlled storage facilities. Acute aflatoxicosis poisoning from aflatoxin-prone dietary staples could cause acute hepatic necrosis, acute liver failure, and death. Here, as the cheaper, more straightforward, and facile on-site diagnostic kit is needed, we report an ultraviolet-excitable optical aptasensor based on a fluorinated ethylene propylene film strip. Molecular dynamics on the aptamer.AFB1 complex revealed that the AFB1 to the aptamer increases the overall structural stability, suggesting that the aptamer design is suitable for the intended application. Under various influencing factors, the proposed label-free strategy offers a fast 20-min on-site fabrication simplicity and 19-day shelf-life. The one-pot incubation provides an alternative to catalytic detection and exhibited 4 times reusability. The recovery of crude brown sugar, processed peanuts, and long-grain rice were 102.74 ± 0.41 (n = 3), 86.90 ± 3.38 (n = 3), and 98.50 ± 0.42 (n = 3), comparable to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array Detector results. This study is novel owing to the peculiar UV-active spectrum fingerprint and the convenient use of hydrophobic film strips that could promote breakthrough innovations and new frontiers for on-site/forensic detection of environmental pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic psychiatric care aims to improve mental health and reduce recidivism in mentally disordered offenders, facilitating community reintegration in a secure treatment environment. This study explores the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of individuals undergoing medico-legal psychiatric assessments at Ndera Neuro Psychiatric Hospital in Kigali, Rwanda. Conducted as a descriptive study, data were collected retrospectively from patient files, with analysis revealing that the majority (76%) were males, predominantly aged 18–45 years (median age 31.5 years). A significant proportion (62.9%) was single, and unemployment rates stood at 56.4%. Clinically, 53% had a history of psychiatric illness, with substance abuse (24.2%), bipolar disorder (14.5%), and schizoaffective disorders (6.5%) being the prevalent diagnoses. Notably, 41.9% had comorbidities. The crimes committed included physical assault (46.7%), sexual assault (25.8%), and murder (21.0%). These findings emphasize the need for targeted policies addressing mental health and socioeconomic disparities in this population, as well as interventions to reduce criminal involvement. It highlights the complexity of cases, with a considerable proportion exhibiting multiple hospital admissions and diverse psychiatric conditions. The study underscores the importance of a secure treatment environment, aligning with the broader objective of improving mental health and minimizing recidivism in mentally disordered offenders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Revealing individual characteristics is supportive for identifying individuals in forensic crime. As saliva is one of the most common biological samples used in crime scenes, it is important to make full use of the rich individual information contained in saliva. The aim of this study was to explore the application of the microbiome in forensic science by analysing differences in the salivary microbiome and metabolome of healthy individuals with different dietary habits. Methods: We performed 16S rDNA sequencing analysis based on oral saliva samples collected from 12 vegetarians, 12 seafood omnivores and 12 beef and lamb omnivores. Non-targeted metabolomics analyses were also performed based on saliva samples from healthy individuals. Results: The results showed that the dominant flora of vegetarians was dominated by Neisseria (belonging to the phylum Proteobacteria), while seafood omnivores and beef and lamb omnivores were dominated by Streptococcus (belonging to the phylum Firmicutes). NDMS-based and cluster analyses showed that vegetarian dieters were significantly differentiated from meat dieters (seafood omnivores and beef and lamb omnivores), which may be related to the fact that high-fiber diets can create a different salivary flora structure. Variants were also detected in salivary metabolic pathways, including positive correlations with Lipid metabolism, Amino acid metabolism, Carbohydrate metabolism, and Nucleotide metabolism in vegetarians, and correlations in seafood omnivores. In order to select salivary microorganisms and metabolic markers that can distinguish different dietary profiles, a random forest classifier model was constructed in this study, and the results showed that individuals with different dietary profiles could be successfully distinguished based on the core genera and metabolites such as Streptococcus, Histidinyl-Valine. Conclusion: Our study provides a supportive basis for the application of salivary polyomics in order to reveal the dietary characteristics of individuals for forensic investigation and crime solving. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTNegative emotionality has been consistently linked to an increased risk of sexual offending. Ninety-one Dutch males treated in outpatient forensic psychiatry for sexually transgressive behaviour were studied on self-reported negative emotionality, coping and sexual coping, and therapist assessed corresponding dynamic risk factors. Outpatients reported more prevalence of high negative emotionality than therapists. Correlation analyses showed, amongst others, a significant positive association between emotional coping and all subscales of negative emotionality: stress (strong), aggression (weak) and alienation (weak). Furthermore, regression analyses revealed that self-reported stress was a significant predictor of several types of self-reported coping (task, emotional, avoidant, and sexual consent and molest) and assessed sexual coping. Additionally, self-reported aggression predicted consent and rape-themed sexual coping. These results indicate a nuanced relationship between different aspects of negative emotionality and coping mechanisms, underscoring the relevance of careful consideration tailored to characteristics of the patient involved when addressed in forensic treatment.The observed associations between (aspects of) negative emotionality and coping, promote the use of patient-tailored emotion regulation interventions in the forensic treatment of outpatients with sexually transgressive behaviour. Moreover, self-report appears to provide useful additional information for further tailoring therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of analytical techniques in deciphering forensic investigation cases represents a significant advancement. Investigators are adept at scrutinizing minute details of evidence, including latent fingerprints, DNA, and bloodstain patterns. Fingerprints stand as paramount biometric evidence for personal identification, widely employed by law enforcement agencies globally due to their uniqueness. This distinct characteristic arises from the presence of various minutiae within the fingerprint patterns, necessitating specialized personnel for meticulous development. Thus, there arises a need for analytical phenomena like luminescence and fluorescence to facilitate the visualization of latent fingerprint patterns (LFPs). Currently, various organic and inorganic fluorescent compounds are used by forensic investigators for fingerprint development. These fluorescent compounds function by binding to specific components within sweat pores located on frictional ridges of fingerprint patterns, thus rendering them visible. This review discusses materials with fluorescence, and additional properties such as aggregation-induced emission (AIE) and highlights the properties, applications, and notable drawbacks of these materials. The primary aim of this review is to spotlight existing techniques, their limitations, and the latest research endeavours in the quest for the most optimal material for fingerprint development. Such material should possess all essential features while minimizing constraints, thereby bolstering forensic investigations on a global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to determine whether the post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) findings are able to correlate well with the cause of death on conventional autopsy. Materials and methods: From January 2008 until September 2016, total of 60 bodies underwent PMCT scans in the radiology department, followed by conventional autopsies conducted in the forensic department. The radiological findings were interpreted, which were then correlated with the cause of death based on conventional post-mortem autopsy and/or pathological diagnosis. Results: The PMCT findings correlated well with the conventional autopsies. In 28 cases (46.7%), the cause of death was diagnosable based on PMCT alone, in nine cases (15%) the cause was suggestive but required additional information, and in 23 cases (38.3%) the cause was not diagnosable based on PMCT alone. Diagnosable cases included those involving gunshot wounds, sharp and blunt injuries, and lung infections. Causes that could not be diagnosed through PMCT alone included acute myocardial infarction, burns, asphyxiation, drug intoxication and septicemia. Conclusion: PMCT proves to be a valuable and excellent tool for documenting and illustrating bone fractures, abnormal air and fluid accumulation compared to soft tissue injuries, which are better detected in autopsies. However, PMCT alone cannot replace conventional autopsy, which remain the gold standard for establishing the cause of death. Nevertheless, PMCT can serve as useful adjunct in forensic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food aspiration is one of the major health risks for elderly people in nursing homes which could lead to death. Moreover, misconducts in pharmacotherapy may represent a potential risk of adverse drug reactions. It is reported here the toxicological evaluation of a combined death by food aspiration and acute escitalopram intoxication of a psychiatric subject, occurred in a nursing home. An 89-year-old man, suffering from dysphagia and Alzheimer's, was resident in a nursing home. He was fed with a liquid diet administered directly in mouth using a syringe. The man was also being treated with escitalopram 10 mg tablet. One evening, after receiving the meal in the usual way, the man complained of sudden illness. Carried to the emergency room, the man died about 3 h later with a diagnosis of cardiogenic shock subsequentially to ab ingestis. The histological findings revealed the presence of exogenous material, probably food, up to the finest bronchial branches. The toxicological examination revealed the presence of escitalopram and its main metabolite, desmethylcitalopram: in the blood 1972 ng/ml and 285 ng/ml, in the brain 4657 ng/g and 1025 ng/g, in the gastric content 2317 ng/g and 423 ng/g, in the lung 21,771 ng/g and 468 ng/g, respectively. The bad practice of the nurses to dissolve the escitalopram tablet in the liquefied food and to administer the therapy with a syringe directly into the mouth emerged thanks this investigation. Following food aspiration, escitalopram was absorbed by inhalation route, reaching high concentrations in blood and tissues. The death occurred due to a combined mechanism between food aspiration and the escitalopram toxic action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims and Design: This study reports a qualitative phenomenological investigation of resilience in nursing staff working in a high‐secure personality disorder service. Method: Interviews were carried out with six nursing staff, and these captured the richness and complexity of the lived experience of nursing staff. Results: Four superordinate themes emerged from the analysis: Management of emotions: participants showed an awareness that their job is about giving care to patients who may present with very challenging behaviours. The care that they offered was conceptualized as something that needed to be provided in a measured way, with boundaries. A clear distinction was drawn between 'caring personally' for patients, and 'providing care'. Teamwork: teamwork was cited as a major influencing factor by all participants. This was seen as directly impacting the smooth running of the ward, and therefore on the well‐being of nursing staff, but also of patients. Understanding: nursing staff were acutely aware that they were working in an environment where everyday interactions would be open to intense scrutiny and possible misinterpretation by patients. Work–life balance: All the participants spoke of making a conscious effort to have a separate work and home life, which was influenced by a number of factors. Conclusion: The article has discussed the themes of managing emotion, team understanding and work–life balance, illustrating how each contributes to the resilience of nursing staff in this challenging environment. New insights – applicable in both national and international contexts – have been produced. Impact: In secure environments, mental health nursing staff need organizational support and assistance to develop ways of managing difficult experiences with patients, systems that promote recovery, and educational and supervisory support to help understand and process the effects on them. This article provides evidence to support the work of managers and clinicians in these environments. No Patient or Public Contribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac injury caused by a sharp object is a medical and surgical therapeutic challenge. Mortality risk factors have been identified but there are major discrepancies in the literature. The aim of this study was to analyse the management of victims of penetrating cardiac injuries before and after admission to hospital and the anatomical characteristics of these injuries in order to facilitate diagnosis of the most critical patients. Methods: To carry out this study, we conducted a retrospective analytical study with epidemiological data on victims of penetrating cardiac injuries. We included two types of patients, with those who underwent autopsy in our institution after death from sharp injury to the heart or great vessels and those who survived with treatment in the emergency department or intensive care unit between January 2015 and February 2022. Results: We included 30 autopsied patients and 12 survivors aged between 18 and 73 years. Higher mortality was associated with prehospital or in-hospital cardiorespiratory arrest (OR = 4, CI [1.71–9.35]), preoperative mechanical ventilation (OR = 10, CI [1.53–65.41]), preoperative catecholamines (OR = 7, CI [1.12–6.29]), preoperative and perioperative adrenaline (OR = 13, CI [1.98–85.46] and [1.98–85.46]), penetrating cardiac injury (OR = 14, CI [2.10–93.22]), multiple cardiac injuries (OR = 1.5, CI [1.05–2.22]) and an Organ Injury Scaling of the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma (AAST-OIS) score of 5 (OR = 2.9, CI [1.04–8.54]; p = 0.0329) with an AUC-ROC curve value of 0.708 (CI [0.543–0.841]). Conclusions: This study identified risk mortality factors in penetrating cardiac injury patients. These findings can help improve the diagnosis and management of these patients. The AAST-OIS score may be a good tool to diagnose critical patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of a portable analytical procedure is described for rapid sequential detection and quantification of the explosives 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) and cyclotrimethylenetrinitramine (RDX) in forensic samples using a graphite sheet (GS). A single GS platform works as a collector of explosive residues and detector after its assembly into a 3D-printed cell. The detection strategy is based on cyclic square-wave stripping voltammetry. The cathodic scan from + 0.1 to −1.0 V with accumulation at 0.0 V enables the TNT detection (three reduction peaks), and the anodic scan from + 0.2 to + 1.55 V with accumulation at −0.9 V provides the RDX detection (two oxidation processes). Low detection limit values (0.1 µmol L−1 for TNT and 2.4 µmol L−1 for RDX) and wide linear ranges (from 1 to 150 µmol L−1 for TNT and from 20 to 300 µmol L−1 for RDX) were obtained. The sensor did not respond to pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), which was evaluated as a potential interferent, because plastic explosives contain mixtures of TNT, RDX, and PETN. The GS electrode was also evaluated as a collector of TNT and RDX residues spread on different surfaces to simulate forensic scenarios. After swiping over different surfaces (metal, granite, wood, cloths, hands, money bills, and cellphone), the GS electrode was assembled in the 3D-printed cell ready to measure both explosives by the proposed method. In all cases, the presence of TNT and RDX was confirmed, attesting the reliability of the proposed device to act as collector and sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite guidance to minimize restrictive practice within the UK, seclusion and long-term segregation are necessary to maintain the safety of patients and clinicians. There is little evidence to guide the work of occupational therapists with secluded patients. A literature search identified seven papers that met the study inclusion criteria. A deductive approach to thematic analysis was conducted using the 'Model of Human Occupation' as a theoretical framework to identify issues related to occupational need during a period of seclusion. Findings indicate ways in which occupational therapists could engage with patients in seclusion and suggest a need for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) is an essential step in forensic investigations, particularly those involving homicides and unwitnessed deaths. However, traditional methods occasionally yield inconsistent estimates. Histological and molecular techniques are considered crucial in forensic pathology and are frequently employed to estimate the time interval of death. The gingiva is an oral mucosal tissue used to estimate PMI. This review aimed to examine the potential of histological methods to determine PMI using oral mucosal tissue, namely the gingiva, and to investigate changes that occur in oral mucosal tissue at different time intervals when compared with those in normal tissues. The oral mucosa comprises layers of stratified squamous epithelium and connective tissue. Similar to other body tissues, changes are known to occur in the gingiva after death, and these cellular and tissue changes should also be considered. Alterations in the gingiva include homogenisation, karyorrhexis, pyknosis, karyolysis, chromatin clumping, eosinophilia, collagen fibre degradation, and the loss of tissue architecture. Reviews collating the results of original trials have consistently reported how the oral mucosa is altered by autolysis and how such changes can be observed in histological tissue morphology after death. Histology is an acceptably accurate technique for estimating PMIs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the psychological and relational processes of a service user reflective group on a medium secure forensic ward. The group was conceptualised by the service as a component of the therapeutic offer contributing to the patients' journey towards recovery and this study aimed to explore whether the group was being experienced as beneficial, by service users and staff, in relation to recovery concepts. Design/methodology/approach: Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interviews from 10 participants who had experience of an existing service user reflective group on a medium secure forensic ward. Participants in the study were patients who attended the group (6) and staff members who facilitated the group (4). The data collected were analysed using constructivist grounded theory methodology. Findings: Results formed a flexible, cyclical model based on five key categories: "Group Identity", "Linking Self with Others", "The Changing Self", "Living Visibly in a System" and "Moving On." Practical implications: Findings indicate that service user reflective groups in forensic inpatient settings can contribute to increased interpersonal effectiveness and personal recovery. Originality/value: The role of service user reflective groups in secure recovery has not been explored empirically to date, although they are a suggested intervention to enhance relational security and to aid therapeutic progress within a secure recovery framework. This study aimed to begin to address this gap in research and understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The environmental contamination by extremophile Aspergillus species, i.e., Aflatoxin B1, is hardly controllable in Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, which lack handling resources and controlled storage facilities. Acute aflatoxicosis poisoning from aflatoxin-prone dietary staples could cause acute hepatic necrosis, acute liver failure, and death. Here, as the cheaper, more straightforward, and facile on-site diagnostic kit is needed, we report an ultraviolet-excitable optical aptasensor based on a fluorinated ethylene propylene film strip. Molecular dynamics on the aptamer.AFB1 complex revealed that the AFB1 to the aptamer increases the overall structural stability, suggesting that the aptamer design is suitable for the intended application. Under various influencing factors, the proposed label-free strategy offers a fast 20-min on-site fabrication simplicity and 19-day shelf-life. The one-pot incubation provides an alternative to catalytic detection and exhibited 4 times reusability. The recovery of crude brown sugar, processed peanuts, and long-grain rice were 102.74 ± 0.41 (n = 3), 86.90 ± 3.38 (n = 3), and 98.50 ± 0.42 (n = 3), comparable to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Photodiode Array Detector results. This study is novel owing to the peculiar UV-active spectrum fingerprint and the convenient use of hydrophobic film strips that could promote breakthrough innovations and new frontiers for on-site/forensic detection of environmental pollutants.

Estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI) is an essential step in forensic investigations, particularly those involving homicides and unwitnessed deaths. However, traditional methods occasionally yield inconsistent estimates. Histological and molecular techniques are considered crucial in forensic pathology and are frequently employed to estimate the time interval of death. The gingiva is an oral mucosal tissue used to estimate PMI. This review aimed to examine the potential of histological methods to determine PMI using oral mucosal tissue, namely the gingiva, and to investigate changes that occur in oral mucosal tissue at different time intervals when compared with those in normal tissues. The oral mucosa comprises layers of stratified squamous epithelium and connective tissue. Similar to other body tissues, changes are known to occur in the gingiva after death, and these cellular and tissue changes should also be considered. Alterations in the gingiva include homogenisation, karyorrhexis, pyknosis, karyolysis, chromatin clumping, eosinophilia, collagen fibre degradation, and the loss of tissue architecture. Reviews collating the results of original trials have consistently reported how the oral mucosa is altered by autolysis and how such changes can be observed in histological tissue morphology after death. Histology is an acceptably accurate technique for estimating PMIs.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent impact on psychological work, Division 41 of the American Psychological Association convened a taskforce to provide guidance to its membership regarding the use of technology for practice and research at the intersection of psychology and law. Drawing from existing research in psychology-law and beyond, as well as the first-hand experience of taskforce members, this document outlines foundational guidance to apply technology to forensic and correctional work while acknowledging these settings provide unique challenges to ethical practice. The recommendations provide support for psychologists involved in assessment, treatment, training, and research. However, these recommendations may not exhaustively apply to all areas of psycholegal practice or all forms of technology. Further, these recommendations are intended to be consulted in conjunction with other professional practice guidelines, emerging research, and policy changes that impact the integration of technologies into this work.

There has been an association between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attachment style and resilience with later life psychological distress, yet this area remains under-researched among forensic mental health populations. The current study aimed to explore predictive relationships between ACEs, attachment and resilience and later-life psychological distress and trauma in a sample with a history of forensic mental health service use. A total of 128 participants completed six questionnaires relating to these factors: The Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ); the Vulnerable Attachment Scale Questionnaire (VASQ); the Child and Youth Resilience Measure (CYRM); the Resilience Research Centre Adult Resilience Measure (RRC-ARM); the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation-10 (CORE-10); and the International Trauma Questionnaire (ITQ). ACEs were found to be highly prevalent and significant correlations were found between lower levels of adult resilience and insecure attachment, and increased psychological distress and trauma symptoms. Attachment style was found to mediate some of these relationships. The findings support a model in which higher ACEs may lead to insecure attachment style and low resilience in the forensic mental health population, thereby resulting in higher levels of later life psychological distress and trauma. Attachment and resilience may be important factors to consider for preventative and reactive interventions within forensic mental health care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Criminal law evolution accentuates the contrast between traditional eyewitness testimonies and precise modern forensics. While testimonies offer depth, scientific methodologies provide unparalleled accuracy in investigations. This study examines the challenges and merits of both in light of technological advancements. The objective is to understand the evolving paradigm of scientific evidence in criminal justice, emphasizing its integration and balance with traditional evidentiary methods for upholding judicial integrity and revealing material truth. The result of this study is historical evolution in the theory of scientific evidence which has transitioned from relying on testimonies to verifiable scientific data, including advancements in DNA and cyber technology. This scientific approach, characterized by its objectivity, replicability, and measurability, offers a robust foundation for discerning truth and justice, surpassing the limitations of mere factual accounts. Modern criminal law’s integration of this evidence signifies a deep-rooted commitment to justice, ensuring verdicts are swift, fair, and grounded in undeniable truth.

Delays in construction projects are common and persistent. Frequent disputes also make work time inefficient and result in significant cost increases. Therefore, it is necessary to study or investigate events that are useful as a solution to delay claims and have the potential to be used in litigation. This research has been conducted to maximize reliable data sources. The Source Validation Protocol guides the process for ensuring the validity of the source data based on the Forensic Schedule Analysis methodology. According to the Critical Path Method (CPM) schedule analysis, the construction time of the Rusunawa Building (Rent Simple Flat) of the Health Polytechnic of the Ministry of Health Yogyakarta is 73.2 weeks or 511 calendar days. The 2 data source validation protocols, including Validation of Baseline Schedule Selection, Validation and Rectification, and Validation of As-Built Schedule Sources, Reconstruction, and Validation, greatly influenced the project delays.

BACKGROUND: The accurate identification of unknown human remains plays a critical role in natural disaster scenarios and medico-legal cases in forensic anthropology and forensic medicine. This study aimed to determine normal reference values for the breadth of the talus bone using ankle radiographs from a Teaching Hospital in Delta State, Nigeria. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study retrospectively reviewed 107 digital ankle radiographs from patients aged 20 to 60 years (60 males and 47 females). Ethical clearance was obtained before accessing the digital images archived in a radiological unit of a Hospital in Delta State, Nigeria. The talus breadth was measured using digital calipers and the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to compare the means based on gender and age. The association of variables was done using the Pearson’s correlation test. Statistical significance was considered at P < 5%. RESULTS: The mean talus breadth was significantly larger in males (41.76 mm) than in females (38.59 mm). However, the means had no significant association with age. The right talus breadth had a strong positive correlation with the left talus breadth. CONCLUSION: The findings are useful to orthopedic surgeons managing ankle pathologies. In addition, the study reveals the potential use of the talar breadth in sex determination when other methods are inconclusive.

Abstract Background Adverse childhood events (ACEs), psychopathy, and self-harming behaviours are prevalent among individuals in the forensic psychiatry system. While existing literature suggests that ACEs, self-harm, and psychopathy are interrelated, little is known about the interplay of psychopathic traits in this relationship. The present study aimed to determine the mediating role of psychopathy in the relationship between ACEs and self-harming behaviours in forensic patients. Methods This was a retrospective study of patients under the Ontario Review Board (ORB) between 2014 and 2015. In the analysis, we included patients with complete data on ACEs, self-harming behaviours, and a Psychopathy Checklist-Revised (PCL-R) score - a measure of psychopathic traits and their severity conducted during the reporting period. Mediation analysis was based on the Baron and Kenny approach, and sensitivity analysis was performed based on the types of ACEs. Results ​​​The sample population (n = 593) was made up of adults, with a mean age of 41.21 (± 12.35) years and were predominantly males (92.37%). While there was a partial mediating effect of psychopathy on the relationship between ACEs and incidents of self-harming behaviours in the past year, the mediation was complete in the relationship between ACEs and a lifetime history of self-harming behaviours. Following sensitivity analysis based on the types of ACE, the mediating effects were more attributed to specific ACEs, especially having experienced child abuse or having an incarcerated household member before 18 years. Conclusion Among forensic patients in Ontario, psychopathy mediates​ ​the relationship between experiencing ACEs and engaging in self-harming behaviours. Effective intervention to mitigate self-harming behaviours in this population should consider the potential role of psychopathy, especially among individuals who have experienced ACEs involving a history of child abuse and a family who was incarcerated.