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This study investigated the influence of question repetition and question type (answerable, unanswerable, or opinion seeking) on children's recall. A total of 136 children (5-, 7-, and 9-year-olds) watched a live 15-min presentation. One week later, the children were asked 20 questions that were repeated an additional two times within the interview. Accuracy of children's responses to unanswerable questions declined with repetition. Children were more likely to change a response to an unanswerable question than to an answerable question. Overall, children maintained the same answers to only three-quarters of the repeated questions. The most common pattern of change was for children to change their answer the second time a question was asked and then to maintain that answer when questioned again. The high percentage of changed answers within a single interview has important implications for forensic interviewing.

"His handwriting checks out and his prints look pretty good. Move him to the top of the list," orders the 13-year-old captain. His co-detective makes appropriate procedural notes. "Bring the next one up. Get a foot measurement and let Andre print him before we talk." In another corner of the room, two girls administer a solemn oath to one of six appropriately evasive "suspects" while a third helps herself to a sample of his hair for microscopic analysis. Fingerprinting, measurement, and microscopy centers set up throughout the classroom, are buzzing with activity as teams of amateur sleuths work to bring a criminal to justice. The scene described is from a forensic science activity the author designed for a weekend event at the Museum of Natural Science at Louisiana State University. Originally intended to demonstrate some of the basics of forensic science through a crime-solving activity aimed at middle level students, the author later found this activity translates easily to a regular classroom setting for holidays and the end of the year. A fair amount of preparation is necessary, but several grades can participate simultaneously, as can visiting parents.

Demonstrates how forensic science can be used as a framework for generating student interest and learning in chemistry and promoting critical thinking. The "Who Dunnit?" forensic science workshop was developed by undergraduate students and is one element of a two-week residential summer outreach program that seeks to develop interest in engineering among middle school girls. (Author/MM)

Uses forensic chemical science in an elementary setting and investigates how students apply knowledge to a real-world scenario. (YDS)

Describes how forensic science programs have boomed as students decide they want to be just like the stars of "The X-Files" and "CSI." (EV)

One of the most important review topics the author teaches in middle school is the use of metric measurement for problem solving and inquiry. For many years, she had students measuring various objects around the room using the tools of metric measurement. She dutifully taught hypothesizing, data collecting, and drawing conclusions. It was hands-on, but not very exciting. This year, the author set up crime scenes for the students to analyze as a practice for measuring and to use their problem-solving skills. In the activity described in this article, students use measuring equipment, collect data, and make inferences based on the evidence collected. Most of the students are fans of the CSI television programs, so this activity generates a lot of student enthusiasm.

Describes a project involving students in forensic science and crime prevention to improve their investigative skills using a DNA fingerprinting workshop and designing burglar alarms, investigating blood splatter patterns, investigating vehicle collisions, and researching crime prevention advice on the Internet. (YDS)

Summary: By controlling the network, the Internet of Things (IoT)‐connected software‐defined network (SDN) limits the scalability of IoT devices. Since SDN depends on a centralized controller that attackers can easily affect, it is incredibly susceptible to attacks. Secure access control to the SDN controller was the focus of the prior methods for controller scalability and restricted trust management. A framework called Safeguard Authentication Dynamic Access Control (SANDMAC) is suggested to safeguard and offer useful services to enterprises. Authentication confirms legitimacy after all users and applications have been registered. To improve network security, policies let users grant access to account attributes, legal activities, and temporal components. The administrator lessens conflicts between the methods by validating and saving the policies in the database. The services are provided to dependable customers using the forensic‐based investigation algorithm, depending on the quality of service and software level agreements requirements, decreasing reaction times and maximizing resource usage. Performance comparisons between the new and previous efforts are validated using a variety of parameters, and the proposed work is validated using the iFogSim application. According to the findings, SANDMAC significantly raises key performance indicators. SANDMAC specifically keeps false positives at 3.5% and accomplishes a low response time of 60 ms for roughly 800 authorized accesses. SANDMAC is a better option because of these enhancements, which result in longer network lifetimes and more dependable data transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current demand in the field of abusive drug research is to have a highly sensitive and rapid method for detecting ketamine and scopolamine, which are frequently used in drug-facilitated sexual assaults administered via beverages and food. We report here the first electrochemical sensors of N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC) coordinated ruthenium organometallic 1-dimensional polymers and their multi-walled carbon nano tube (MWCNT)-based composite for detecting ketamine and scopolamine. The preparation of ruthenium NHC organometallics and the MWCNT composite as sensors offers significant advantages for electrochemical applications, with enhanced sensitivities of 121.979 and 3.273 μA μM−1 cm−2 for ketamine and scopolamine, respectively, and selectivity in sensing applications. The complex–carbon composite sensor has a low limit of detection i.e., 0.194 and 3.18 nM for ketamine and scopolamine identification, respectively. Alongside, the selectivity of the composite sensor was evaluated in the presence of other blood constituents, and the study evidenced remarkable discernment towards the title drugs. Furthermore, real-time analyses using the composite sensor demonstrated quantitative identification of ketamine and scopolamine. Therefore, this innovation has the potential to provide valuable tools for forensic investigations and address the urgent need for real-time detection of date rape drugs. This contribution demonstrates a robust proof-of-concept that emphasizes the importance of creating non-enzymatic, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective sensors for on-site sensing applications as point-of-care devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In firearm forensic investigations, detecting gunshot residue (GSR) is crucial for linking firearms to suspects and determining firing distance for forensic reconstruction. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF-MS) is emerging as a versatile and promising technological platform for fingerprint analysis. The capability of functionalized particles as an advanced dusting powder for visualizing latent fingerprints is widely recognized. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of employing functionalized magnetic fingerprint dusting powders for distinguishing regular and GSR fingerprints using MALDI-ToF-MS, thereby enhancing forensic evidentiary support. In this study, silica and carbon coated magnetic iron oxide particles were surface functionalized with phenyltriethoxy orthosilicate (PTEOS) or 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) to create hydrophobic and hydrophilic particles, respectively. Donor shooters' fingerprints, both GSR-containing and regular, were analyzed using these functionalized particles coupled with MALDI-ToF-MS. The results demonstrated effective fingerprint visualization and conclusive discrimination between GSR-containing and regular fingerprints through orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis. This technique provides enhanced sensitivity, speed, and adaptability compared to conventional methods, making it a promising choice for initial detection of GSR in latent fingerprints. Moreover, when subjected to thorough analysis using advanced instruments, it has the potential to significantly strengthen the probative value of fingerprint evidence in forensic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is devoted to the analysis of the possibilities of using the Stable Diffusion neural network for visualizing crime scenes and modeling criminal events. Thanks to the model's ability to generate high-quality and realistic images based on textual descriptions or other raw data, it opens new horizons for forensic investigations. In particular, Stable Diffusion allows you to create accurate crime scene visualizations, recreating the events before, during, and after a crime is committed. This approach contributes to the improvement of the analysis of crime scenes, more effective planning of investigative actions and hypothetical modeling of possible scenarios of the development of events. One of the unique features of the neural network is the possibility of reconstructing scenes based on textual descriptions, which is especially useful in judicial and investigative practice for presenting the evidence base and visualizing criminal events to jurors. The model also allows the use of interactive tools for studying crime scenes in different dimensions, which increases the accuracy and efficiency of forensic investigations. The article discusses in detail the technical possibilities of Stable Diffusion, including the stages of image generation, from random noise to full-fledged visualization. The possibilities of integrating a neural network with virtual reality (VR) systems and 3D modeling programs are analyzed, which opens up new perspectives in creating full-fledged virtual reconstructions of crime scenes. At the same time, the main challenges and limitations are discussed, including the need for high computing power, legal justification, and ensuring data privacy. Advances in machine learning technologies make Stable Diffusion a promising tool for improving forensics investigations and training. The paper also provides examples of interactive work with virtual scenes, when investigators can change model parameters for a better understanding of events. This allows for a comprehensive analysis of the crime scene, including taking into account various variables, such as viewing angle, changing lighting or other seasons, which significantly improves the decision-making process during investigative activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the consideration of issues of digitalization of social and other processes of existence and development of the state, society, its economic, industrial, communication, and information spheres, as well as the impact of digital technologies on crime and the activities of law enforcement agencies fighting against it. It was noted that the use of digital technologies brought a lot of positive things to social and industrial practice, facilitated the performance of many tasks in the production of products, in the field of management of state and industrial and social processes, expanded opportunities for high-quality and fast communication between people using computer systems and networks, the worldwide Internet. The use of advanced scientific developments and modem technologies for illegal purposes created difficulties for timely identification of signs of preparation of crimes, collection of evidence and implementation of evidence during pre-trial investigation. Certain difficulties in proving the guilt of criminals are due to the emergence of new and little-studied evidence - electronic and their sources, with the study of evidentiary information in digital form and its use in evidence. The science of criminology and its new direction - digital criminology - should help in the fulfillment of tasks to combat crime. These questions are widely discussed today by Ukrainian and foreign scientists and practitioners. Some of them consider digital forensics as a separate science that deals with the fight against cybercrimes and crimes that are committed using a computer. However, the authors of the article, relying on the opinions of domestic and foreign scientists, prove that digital forensics is not a separate science, but a direction of the traditional science of forensics, the provisions of which cover issues of forensic techniques, tactics and methods of crime investigation. Its developments are aimed at the search, research and use in proving electronic evidence and digital traces. The author's understanding of the main tasks of digital forensics is formulated, the solution of which is necessary for the optimal integration of electronic evidence into the system of traditional evidence and ensuring their recognition by judicial practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the problem of systematization of forensic knowledge. It is noted that in modem conditions it is solved by creating two relatively separate theories - the doctrine of the subject and the doctrine of the forensic system. The thesis about the key role in the construction of the forensics system of a clear definition of its subject and its structure is substantiated. The subject of criminology is a system-forming factor for the content of this science. This necessitates the unification of this problem within the framework of a single forensic science. The significance of the use of the historical research method for the formation of such a teaching is emphasized. From this point of view, the historical monument of the late 19th and early 20th centuries is analyzed - the scientific work of Hans Gross «Manual for judicial investigative judges as a system of criminology». It is emphasized that this book had many editions in different years and gained extreme popularity among investigators, prosecutors, and judges of different countries of the world. It should be noted that this scientific work actually laid the foundation of criminology, on which this science developed in the following years. This development took place in both practical and theoretical aspects. Taking this into account, it is argued that Hans Gross's views on the subject and system of forensics have not lost their significance in modem times. It is noted that their analysis allows modem researchers to orient themselves in a number of problematic issues of the development of criminology, to evaluate modem ideas about ways to solve them. In particular, two ideas of the outstanding scientist are noted: 1) criminology has as its subject the study of two types of activity - criminal activity and the activity of the investigator, which is reflected in the knowledge system of this science; 2) the system of criminology should consist of general and special parts based on the example of criminal law, the practical implementation of whose provisions in the judiciary is carried out precisely through criminology. It is claimed that these ideas are well-founded and productive and deserve their further development taking into account modem scientific processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Arterial fenestration involves an artery emerging from the same embryological origin, with its lumen divided into two channels that subsequently rejoin. This kind of vascular variant has consequences, such as focal defects in the histologic layers of the arteries, hemodynamic stress, and challenges for endovascular procedures in the management of vascular pathologies. The main objective of this work is to present a rare vascular variant, a double fenestration of the same P1 segment of a cadaveric specimen, and a literature review of these kind of vascular variants. Methods: A cadaveric study was performed in which 20 central nervous system specimens, from patients without neurological pathology obtained as a donation from the National Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, were dissected for educational and research purposes. Results: In one specimen it was found a double fenestration of the right P1 segment, associated with a single fenestration of the right superior cerebellar artery. Few cases of posterior circulation fenestration, beyond the vertebrobasilar trunk are reported in the literature, with limited understanding of the potential hemodynamic consequences thereof. In all the literature available, only eight cadaveric cases of P1 segment fenestration are documented, often linked with other central nervous system vascular abnormalities such as aneurysms or duplications. Conclusions: There is a single report of unilateral double P1 segment fenestration in a living patient. To our knowledge, this is the second case reported in the literature on this specific anatomical anomaly, and the first such report in a cadaver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite concerns having been voiced internationally about the validity and reliability of mobile phone evidence, there remain large gaps in our understanding of how police acquire and process mobile phone data, and the risks associated with this work. This paper fills some of these gaps by drawing upon qualitative data gathered during an ethnographic study of the role of forensic sciences and technologies in British homicide investigations. Specifically, we draw upon case papers, interviews, and observations to illuminate, from the perspective of police and prosecution actors, some of the opportunities, tensions, and risks encountered in accessing and processing mobile phone data during these inquiries. Our findings reveal several risks associated with current practice alongside broader complexities related to legislation, privatisation, and accreditation. We consider how these intertwined risks and challenges may undermine the reliability of mobile phone evidence and jeopardise criminal justice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is one type of Earth material demonstrating a wide range of physical, chemical, and biological properties. As the compositional profile of soil is a product of interaction between numerous abiotic and biotic components, it tends to be unique by its geographic origin. Hence, soil is paramount for predicting source or origin in forensic provenance and intelligence, food provenance, biosecurity, and archaeology. In the context of forensic investigation, source tracing of soil could be executed by a comparison or provenance analysis. Soil compositional fingerprints acquired using analytical methods must be carefully interpreted via suitable mathematical and statistical tools since multiple sources can contribute to the variability of soil other than its provenance. This article reviews recent trends in soil sampling and data interpretation strategies proposed for source tracing of soil evidence. Performances of soil provenance indicators are also described. Then, perspectives on possible research directions guiding forensic soil provenance are proposed. This timely critical review reveals the essential idea and gap in forensic soil provenance for stimulating the development of more efficient and effective provenance strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benefits of wait time in classroom discourses have been well documented in the field of education since the 1970s. While current forensic interview guidelines recognize the importance of pauses, whether there is sufficient empirical evidence to inform wait time guidelines in the legal context remains unanswered. This systematic review aimed to synthesize and provide a holistic update on the available research on the role of wait time when questioning children and recommended future direction to develop wait time guidelines specific to child forensic interviews. Systematic searches were conducted using four databases (PsycINFO, MedLine, ERIC, and Scopus). A total of 3,953 unique articles were returned, following a title and abstract screening, 68 full texts were reviewed, and 26 (including five additional studies identified through a hand search) were included. Inclusion criteria were the study sample included children under 18, published a measure of wait time in a questioning context, and in English. Overall, most knowledge of wait time remains in the field of education. Natural wait time is short, but with training, extended wait time yields significant benefits for both child and adult talk. Only one study examined the role of wait time in the forensic interviewing setting where a 10-s wait time appears to be more productive than shorter pauses. Extended wait time is a promising and simple interviewing practice with the potential to facilitate children's disclosure. The current review is a call for research in the area as it pertains to forensic interviewing of children and youth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Child abuse is a major concern worldwide. While live-link interviews have been successful in legal and medical contexts, its potential for eyewitness interviews remains insufficiently studied, particularly in terms of non-verbal misinformation. This study explored tele-forensic interviewing (tele-FI), where video-conferencing software such as Zoom or Skype are used to conduct forensic interviews, as an alternative to face-to-face interviews. Focus was given to the susceptibility of eyewitness memory to the gestural misinformation effect (GME) where post-event information in the form of gesture can distort recall of a witnessed incident. Forty-seven children were recruited ranging in age from 5- to 8-years-old (M = 6 years 11 months). Comparisons were made to face-to-face conditions from prior published work by the authors (N = 63, M = 7 years 2 months) using the same methodology, video, and question sets. Results find support for the GME during tele-FI, with 1.23 misinformation details recorded on average and tele-FI showing a similar response pattern as face-to-face interviews. Accuracy was shown to be comparable in tele-FI (M = 16.21) compared to face-to-face interviews (M = 14.02), with a notable increase in the amount of relevant information provided in the tele-FI condition. Developmental age showed significant increases in the quality and quantity of data. This study provides evidence for tele-FI as a viable alternative to face-to-face interviews, and represents the first exploration of the GME in tele-FI, to the best of our knowledge. Discussion focuses on the benefits of tele-FI and the implications for police interview guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The workload of forensic pathologists involves performing autopsies for a coroner. In this study of Australia, it was hypothesized that autopsy numbers would increase over time owing to increasing numbers of deaths, but this potential trend could be influenced by changes in Coroners Acts. The five largest coronial jurisdictions of Australia were studied between 2006 to 2017. Regression analysis was used to compare autopsy numbers (from the National Coronial Information System) to the number of deaths (from the Australian Bureau of Statistics). The number of deaths increased over time in all jurisdictions. Two jurisdictions had changes to their Coroners Acts that appeared related to decreasing numbers of autopsies. Two jurisdictions had no changes to their Coroners Acts: one showed a greater increase in autopsy numbers than the increase in deaths, but the other's trend was significantly different to the increasing number of deaths. The fifth jurisdiction had a change in Coroners Act with a following, non-sustained decrease in autopsy numbers. The findings support the hypothesis that forensic pathology workload can be influenced by changes in Coroners Acts, but the finding also suggests that other factors may influence the number of autopsies that are performed by forensic pathologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DNA samples used in forensic DNA analysis, especially casework evidence samples, are usually collected in diverse and harsh environments and often contain PCR inhibitors. DNA extracted from casework evidence samples is likely to have a low concentration. Additionally, the PCR clean-up process to remove PCR inhibitors can decrease DNA concentration. Therefore, through this study, we aimed to compare the inhibitor tolerance of short tandem repeat (STR) kits and identify their strengths and weaknesses in order to effectively apply and utilize the kits in forensic science. Inhibitor tolerance analysis of STR kits was conducted by measuring the peak height, limit of detection (LOD), and peak balance. The effect of the inhibitor on the peak height variation was determined using the effective concentration 50 (EC50) value. Inhibitor tolerance indicators, such as the LOD and peak balance of each kit, were measured in the presence of four inhibitors, including humic acid, haematin, calcium phosphate, and indigo carmine. No significant difference was observed for the inhibitors for each of the STR kits tested, with the exception of the Investigator® 24plex QS kit which had a significantly higher tolerance for calcium phosphate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a systematic and critical assessment of the reliability of forensic science in New Zealand. It documents the types of forensic-science being offered in criminal cases, the party presenting the evidence, the experts' affiliations, how often there are challenges to the admissibility of the expert evidence and their timing in the proceedings, how often experts rely upon the uniqueness assumption, and how often experts testify to an individualised identification or 'match' of a source of forensic evidence. It finds that several of the common forensic disciplines in the criminal justice system in New Zealand have been the subject of critique and criticism internationally, the most common source of expert evidence was presented by the prosecution and provided by institutional police laboratories, and in most cases the forensic expert testified either to the uniqueness assumption or to an individualised match determination. It concludes that the New Zealand Parliament should amend the Evidence Act 2006 to require a demonstration of foundational validity and as-applied reliability as a precondition to the admissibility of any purported scientific evidence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to establish reliable mathematical and regression analysis (RA) methods for estimating stature using upper limb (UL) anthropometric parameters in the modern South Indian (MSI) population. This study was conducted on a sample size (117 men and 97 women) from the MSI population. Dead bodies within 3 hours of death were included in this study, as the study outcome is meant to apply to the dead and dismembered UL parts. Mathematical and linear RA methods were used to derive multiplication factors (MFs) and regression equations (REs) for the estimation of stature from UL measurements (arm length [AL], forearm length, palm length, and middle finger length [MFL]) and assess their prediction accuracy. A statistically significant correlation was found between UL measurements and stature, indicating their potential use for stature estimation. Both genders showed a statistically significant positive relationship between UL measurements and stature. Both MF and RA methods exhibited reasonable goodness of fit, albeit the RA method yielded a closer estimate of the actual stature than the former. The derived RE showed reasonable goodness of fit and precision in both genders, as evidenced by high R 2 values and low standard errors. The RA and MF methods slightly over- and under-estimated the actual stature, respectively. The MFL and AL showed the strongest and weakest relationship with the stature. Both methods have practical significance though the precision is higher with RA methods. The MF method is simpler, as it is independent of statistical resources, while the RA method may be more useful in cases where there is a large amount of variation in the data. The outcome of this study has significant implications for the forensic and anthropology fields. The derived RE and MF provide a reliable framework for estimating stature from anthropometric measurements of dismembered UL remnants. This information can be valuable in forensic investigations, unidentified remains cases and archaeological studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Y chromosomal haplotype is expected to be identical (or close to, depending on the mutation rate) among a male and many of his paternal relatives. This means that often the same evidential value for the DNA evidence is obtained, whether the true donor or one of his close paternal relatives is compared to a crime sample. Commentators (see for example the UK Forensic Science Regulator or Amorim) have suggested to change the proposition pair to compare the probability of the evidence if the Person of Interest (POI) or one of his close paternal relatives left the DNA to the probability of the evidence if an unrelated male from the population left the DNA. We argue that this is problematic because there is no clear definition of close paternal relatives and truly unrelated males do not exist. Instead, we take a starting point in the traditional proposition pair “The source of the male DNA is the POI” versus “The source of the male DNA is not the POI” and make the latter one operational by suggesting that it is formulated as “The source of the male DNA is a random man from the population”. The issue of matching males in the POI's lineage is then addressed either in a comment in the statement or directly through a probability model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forensic entomology serves a vital role in criminal investigations, contributing to the determination of time of colonization (TOC), minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI), and other forensic evidence related to the decomposition process. This study aimed to identify Calliphoridae species attracted to carcasses in two distinct locations in Algeria and to understand their role in forensic investigations. Two sites in Constantine were selected: a forest in Jebel Ouahch and an urban area in Chaabat Erssas. Two dog carcasses, an adult and a puppy, were monitored for decomposition stages. The puppy carcass reached the dry stage faster than the adult carcass, with decomposition rates varying between sites. A total of 594 Calliphoridae flies were collected, including Calliphora vicina, Calliphora vomitoria, Calliphora subalpina, Lucilia sericata, Lucilia illustris, Lucilia silvarum, and Chrysomya albiceps. These species were present in both locations, with Ch. albiceps being most prevalent, especially on the puppy carcass. Initial blowfly colonization occurred within four hours, with L. sericata and Ch. albiceps particularly abundant. This study underscores the importance of accurate species identification and environmental reconstruction in improving the precision of forensic estimates. Continued research on species phenology and the impacts of climate change will further enhance the applicability of forensic entomology in Algeria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a response from authors to comments on their original article in the Journal of Forensic Sciences. The authors acknowledge typographical errors in their article but dispute the criticisms made by the commentors. They engage in a detailed rebuttal of the comments, particularly focusing on statistical analysis methods used by the commentors. The authors defend their original conclusions and methodology, highlighting discrepancies in the commentors' analysis. The response also delves into the financial interests of the commentors and their potential biases, questioning the transparency and integrity of their work. [Extracted from the article]

Fragment-induced penetrating injuries pose a significant threat in modern combat. Explosions from explosive devices generate metallic fragments that can lethally penetrate various body regions, with the head being particularly most vulnerable to fatality in terms of penetration. Hence, understanding the head's response to fragment impact is crucial. To this end, this study investigated the ballistic response of an anatomically accurate anthropometric head surrogate to fragment impact. The head surrogate comprised simulants for the three major layers of the head (skin, skull, and brain). Using a pneumatic gas gun, we impacted chisel-nosed fragment simulating projectiles (FSPs) of 1.10-g and 2.79-g on the head surrogate. We analyzed the ballistic response of the head surrogate in terms of ballistic limit velocities (V50), energy densities (E50/A), and failure mechanisms in each layer. The results indicated sensitivity to the FSP size. The 1.10-g FSP had a ∼41% higher V50 and a ∼63% higher E50/A compared to the 2.79-g FSP. Additionally, each head surrogate layer exhibited distinct failure mechanisms. The skin simulant failed due to a combination of shearing and elastic hole enlargement, forming a cavity smaller than the size of the FSP. The skull simulant fractured, creating a cavity at the entry point matching the FSP size. The brain simulant failure involved shearing of the cavity and penetration of fractured skull fragments. We also observed no significant difference in response when introducing a flexible neck attachment on which the head surrogate was mounted. Furthermore, comparisons of an anthropometric (close-shape) head surrogate with a simplified open-shaped head surrogate revealed the minimal influence of the head curvature on the response due to the localized nature of fragment penetration. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the head surrogate's mechanical response to fragment impact. The insights from this work hold significant value in the assessment of penetrating head injury, especially against small fragments. The results can be applied in modern warhead design and forensic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern techniques can generate highly discriminatory DNA profiles from minuscule biological samples, providing valuable information in criminal investigations and court proceedings. However, trace and touch DNA samples, due to their nature, often have lower success rates than other biological materials, such as blood. Further, forensically aware criminals can utilize gloves and meticulously clean the crime scene to remove DNA traces of themselves from contacted surfaces. Air sampling offers a novel approach to the collection of human DNA that has the potential to bypass some of these issues. This study reports on the results of research into the prevalence and persistence of human DNA in the air. The ability to collect human DNA from the air was investigated with the use of an AirPrep Cub Sampler ACD220 in different spaces, with and without the presence of individuals for various durations of sample collection. Results of this study demonstrate that level of occupation and sampling duration each have an influence on quantity and quality of DNA recovered from the air whereas the effects of orientation and distance of participants from the collection device as well as sequence of occupation remain unclear and require further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical analysis aimed at identifying post‐explosion residues is critical for investigating crimes or accidents involving explosives, establishing it as a vital area of forensic chemistry. In general, only trace amounts remain in samples analyzed for this purpose, making the presence of interferents a constant concern. Therefore, understanding the materials used from collection to sample preparation is essential for this type of analysis. This study focuses on organic contaminants in collection and laboratory materials analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), complementing a previous study by Mauricio et al. (2020), which addressed inorganic contaminants in materials used for similar purposes in ion chromatography (IC). No prior studies have specifically investigated the potential organic interferences introduced by various materials commonly used in forensic laboratories for sample pre‐processing, storage, and evidence collection in this context. Plastic films, bottle caps, disposable gloves, syringes, swabs, disposable cups, plastic tubes, and plastic pipettes were examined. GC/MS analyses revealed that certain materials, particularly syringe plungers, gloves, and plastic films, can interfere with the detection of post‐explosion residues from explosive emulsions and ANFO (ammonium nitrate‐fuel oil). These findings emphasize the importance of evaluating materials for potential interferences prior to sample collection and processing to minimize contamination risks. This study provides significant insights into how commonly used laboratory materials can impact forensic analysis, thereby enhancing the reliability of post‐explosion residue analysis and supporting more accurate forensic investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Law enforcement officers should now expect to encounter forms of digital evidence at most of their inquiries, and as a result ensure they are prepared to effectively deal with it. This should involve the production of a digital evidence strategy (DES) which describes those actions required of any investigative team to effectively identify, collect, examine, and evaluate any digital devices/data, while also defining the circumstances for when it is appropriate to conduct such tasks. To help officers to produce robust DESs this work provides a DES template which utilizes the “GAMEPLANS” acrostic to identify nine fundamental components that are required of all DESs—“G”–Grounds for investigation; “A”–Authorization; “M”–Method of investigation; “E”–Evaluation of the meaning of any findings; “P”–Proportionality; “L”–Logic; “A”–Agreement; “N”–Necessity; “S”–Scrutiny. Each of these components are described including the sub‐tasks that are contained within each, which any officer constructing a robust and effective DES must address (and provide evidence of having addressed). To support this, a DES template file is also provided, which can be utilized by officers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rodent scavenging of human remains is repeatedly documented in literature. However, most of this documentation is based on single‐case examples. While this information is valuable, it does not provide an in‐depth understanding of scavenger behavior in a single environment. Mouse scavenging data, in particular, lack larger sample sizes and data representing the full duration of scavenging activity. In documented cases, mice scavenge primarily the hands, the feet, and the head without significant progression into the rest of the body. At the Forensic Investigation Research Station in Whitewater, Colorado, deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus group) scavenged tissue from 11 human donors. Motion activated game cameras and regular field photography documented scavenging progression and deer mouse behavior. Deer mice generally showed a preference for skin and fat, rarely consuming enough muscle to expose bone. The most scavenged sections of the body were the limbs and deer mice generally ignored the hands, the feet, and the head, unlike previous documentation. In a few cases, deer mice consumed tissue on the limbs in a distinct trail pattern. Most of the scavenging began in spring. This sample greatly expands on the existing documentation of mice overall and contributes much needed data on the progression of scavenging. Scavengers can have a significant impact on a death scene, so detailed documentation of different scavengers in a variety of environments can prove useful in the investigation process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Handwriting analysis is a valuable tool in forensic document examination, but the interpretation of observed findings can be complicated when individuals with neurological disorders are involved. The process of handwriting necessitates complex neuro‐muscular synchronization, which requires a much more intricate connection between the brain, muscles, and nerves than simply placing pen to paper. People with neurological illnesses, including Parkinson disease, Multiple System Atrophy, Alzheimer disease, and so on, may have trouble writing by hand. These illnesses can impair writing abilities physically and cognitively, resulting in inconsistencies or erratic handwriting that may be challenging to decipher. Because these illnesses impact a person's handwriting, it becomes challenging for document examiners to make an opinion about the handwriting of the author. A literature search was performed using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases to analyze the association between neurological disorders and handwriting and their implications for handwriting analysis. This review article explores the effects of neurological disorders on handwriting. It emphasizes the importance of examining and analyzing handwriting impacted by these illnesses with care and knowledge. Document examiners, forensic professionals, and investigators must comprehend these challenges brought on by neurological illnesses. In forensic settings, specialized training, expertise, and suitable forensic handwriting examination methods (collection, analysis, interpretation, and reporting) should be adopted effectively in cases that involve people suffering from neurological disorders. This review majorly focuses on the analysis and interpretation stage of the forensic handwriting examination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmetics such as makeup or other personal products are widely used and easily transferred upon physical contact. As such, they may be used as trace evidence to link people to each other or to places in criminal investigations. To maximize their probative value, it is important to understand the variability among representative market products and the way in which they transfer to, or persist on various surfaces. Additionally, it is required that analysis techniques be non‐destructive, readily available and relatively inexpensive. Raman spectroscopy and attenuated total reflectance—Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) are powerful tools for probing the chemistry of trace cosmetics. As well as fitting the criteria above, they offer the capability of studying a wide range of sample types with minimal prior preparation. The complementary information derived from these techniques can help analysts to understand and visualize spectral variability, potentially enabling discrimination between samples. However, the move from academic research toward forensic casework is not without challenges. In this article, we provide a focused exploration of the current state‐of‐the‐art in forensic cosmetic research; providing context for how we may begin to address these challenges to more effectively exploit cosmetic traces for criminal investigation. This article is categorized under:Forensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Emerging Technologies and MethodsForensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Trace Evidence [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Next generation sequencing (NGS) or massively parallel sequencing (MPS) is a high‐throughput technology that can be used to analyze DNA and RNA molecules with greater sensitivity, scalability, and speed than traditional Sanger sequencing. NGS systems are slowly gaining popularity in forensic science and may eventually become the future of forensic DNA analysis. The data generated can be utilized to conduct an array of forensic biology analyses such as short tandem repeats (STR) profiling, forensic genetic genealogy, predictive DNA phenotyping, and more. However, the adoption of NGS for forensic casework is associated with a lot of ethical, social, and legal concerns. This article provides a comprehensive review of NGS systems, data analysis, and forensic applications. It also provides policy considerations that aim to reduce harm and bias, while promoting informed consent, standardization, transparency, and accountability. This article is categorized under:Forensic Biology > Interpretation of Biological EvidenceForensic Biology > Ethical and Social ImplicationsForensic Biology > Forensic DNA Technologies [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatal fires pose complex challenges for responders due to the requirement to investigate all aspects of the fire using methods that maximize evidence recovery and integrity, including optimal and respectful recovery of the deceased. In this article, the authors consider the value of the inclusion of both forensic archeologists and forensic anthropologists in circumstances of fatal fire, identifying some of the challenges posed by these environments and what each can contribute. This article is categorized under:Crime Scene Investigation > Crime Scene ExaminationForensic Anthropology > Forensic ArchaeologyForensic Anthropology > Taphonomic Changes and the Environment [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blood is a common biological fluid in forensic investigations, offering significant evidential value. Currently employed presumptive blood tests often lack specificity and are sample destructive, which can compromise downstream analysis. Within this study, the development of an optical biosensor for detecting human red blood cells (RBCs) has been explored to address such limitations. Aptamer-based biosensors, termed aptasensors, offer a promising alternative due to their high specificity and affinity for target analytes. Aptamers are short, single-stranded DNA or RNA sequences that form stable three-dimensional structures, allowing them to bind to specific targets selectively. A nanoflare design has been employed within this work, consisting of a quenching gold nanoparticle (AuNP), DNA aptamer sequences, and complementary fluorophore-labelled flares operating through a fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) mechanism. In the presence of RBCs, the aptamer–flare complex is disrupted, restoring fluorescence and indicating the presence of blood. Two aptamers, N1 and BB1, with a demonstrated binding affinity to RBCs, were selected for inclusion within the nanoflare. This study aimed to optimise three features of the design: aptamer conjugation to AuNPs, aptamer hybridisation to complementary flares, and flare displacement in the presence of RBCs. Fluorescence restoration was achieved with both the N1 and BB1 nanoflares, demonstrating the potential for a functional biosensor to be utilised within the forensic workflow. It is hoped that introducing such an aptasensor could enhance the forensic workflow. This aptasensor could replace current tests with a specific and sensitive reagent that can be used for real-time detection, improving the standard of forensic blood analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Age estimation plays a crucial role in various fields, including forensic science and anthropology. This study aims to develop and validate DentAge, a deep‐learning model for automated age prediction using panoramic dental X‐ray images. DentAge was trained on a dataset comprising 21,007 panoramic dental X‐ray images sourced from a private dental center in Slovenia. The dataset included subjects aged 4 to 97 years with various dental conditions. Transfer learning was employed, initializing the model with ImageNet weights and fine‐tuning on the dental image dataset. The model was trained using stochastic gradient descent with momentum, and mean absolute error (MAE) served as the objective function. Across the test dataset, DentAge achieved an MAE of 3.12 years, demonstrating its efficacy in age prediction. Notably, the model performed well across different age groups, with MAEs ranging from 1.94 (age group [10–20]) to 13.40 years (age group [90–100]). Visual evaluation revealed factors contributing to prediction errors, including prosthetic restorations, tooth loss, and bone resorption. DentAge represents a significant advancement in automated age prediction within dentistry. The model's robust performance across diverse age groups and dental conditions underscores its potential utility in real‐world scenarios. Our model will be accessible to the public for further adjustments and validation, ensuring DentAge's effectiveness and trustworthiness in practical scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental conditions highly affect decomposition rates and therefore a forensic practitioner should consider context‐specific information when estimating the post mortem interval (PMI). Traditional methods of collecting environmental data, however, are time‐consuming and often impractical for large‐scale studies or routine forensic investigations. This study developed an automated computer method by employing the technology of geographic information systems (GIS) and Python programming language to provide contextual information for bodies found outdoors in Greece. The generated coding script underwent testing on 95 bodies in various stages of decomposition, which were examined between the years 1999 and 2022 at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the Forensic Medical Service of Thessaloniki. Using ArcGIS Pro software and publicly available online data, a multilayer map was developed. Individual layers included high‐resolution aerial images and data on the European Nature Information System ecosystem type, the Köppen–Geiger climatic type, the population density, the elevation, and the slope. Additionally, 99 national weather stations and their corresponding meteorological data were integrated. By leveraging the geographical coordinates of the recovery site of each case and information about the decedent's disappearance and recovery dates, this script automatically generates details from each of the above layers. Additionally, it calculates the accumulated degree days (ADD) and accumulated humidity days (AHD) values by extracting data from the nearest weather station. The GIS‐based approach enables rapid, objective, and reproducible taphonomic profile construction, which can greatly improve the reliability of PMI estimations. By utilizing this method, forensic practitioners can accurately evaluate environmental effects on decomposition, thus standardizing taphonomic profiling globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diester diterpenoid alkaloids (DDAs) are the main active ingredients of herbaceous perennial plants Aconitum. DDAs possess cardiotoxic and neurotoxic properties. Although most deaths caused by DDA poisoning are accidental, a few instances of suicide and homicide have been reported. Presented is a case of an acute aconitine (AC) poisoning following the ingestion of approximately 50 mL of homemade medicinal liquor. We described the clinical manifestations after poisoning and detailed postmortem changes, and detected the concentrations of AC and hypaconitine (HA) by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). The decedent experienced a burning sensation in the gastrointestinal tract after poisoning, followed by flushing and paralysis of the face and limbs, and severe cardiac arrhythmia. An autopsy revealed cyanosis of the lips and nail beds; conjunctival hemorrhage in both eyes; pulmonary edema; tissue hemorrhage and congestion in multiple organs; and inflammatory cell infiltration in the stomach, duodenum, pancreas, and cardiac muscle. The concentrations of AC and HA were as follows: cardiac blood, 38.4 ng/mL and 7.1 ng/mL; pericardial fluid, 7.3 ng/mL and 41 ng/mL; urine, 28.1 ng/mL and 574 ng/mL; bile, 38.5 ng/mL and 108 ng/mL; gastric contents, 0.06 mg and 0.56 mg; liver tissue, 10.7 ng/g and 109.6 ng/g; and medicinal liquor, 0.568 mg/mL and 0.664 mg/mL, respectively. The clinical manifestations, anatomy findings, and quantitative data on the concentrations of AC and HA in body fluids and tissues will aid forensic investigations of deaths caused by acute AC poisoning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tape is a type of trace evidence commonly seen in forensic science. Little to no research has been published regarding the optimal storage material for pressure‐sensitive adhesive (PSA) tape. The purpose of this project was to determine the substrate with the least amount of interference for storing PSA tape. Interferences such as difficulty removing tape from the substrate or substrate components leaching into the adhesive can affect the analysis. This was a long‐term study in which samples were stored on various substrates for nearly 10 years. Ten different tape samples were placed on eight different substrates for a total of 80 samples. The substrates included typical materials currently used for tape storage as well as other, less common materials. The tape samples were evaluated for ease of removal at various time intervals. The adhesives from each tape were analyzed at similar time intervals by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). In addition, the adhesives were analyzed by pyrolysis gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (PyGC‐MS), scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS), and x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) at the last time interval (112 months) and compared to the adhesive tape samples from the original rolls of tape to determine if there was any adverse effect from the substrates during storage. The FedEx backing was the only substrate that had no adverse effects regarding ease of removal. The substrates that had the least effect on the adhesive for both short‐term and long‐term storage included FedEx backings, adhesive sheet backings, and polyester transparency sheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estimating biological sex is a crucial aspect of forensic anthropology, and is pivotal in forensic investigations. Presently, the most frequently adopted osteological sex estimation methods focus on the anterior pelvis, which is easily susceptible to postmortem damage, revealing a need for additional accurate methods. This study introduces a novel method for estimating adult sex through metric pelvic scar analysis, using a known skeletal sample (169 females; 51 males). Relationships between sex and scar dimensions were subjected to Kendall's tau‐B testing, and the strongest associated measurements were further analyzed using binary logistic regression to determine their predictive capacity. The final estimation method was tested on an additional known‐sex sample of 43 males and 43 females from the Spitalfields skeletal collection. All associations between biological sex and scar measurements were significant, with the preauricular sulcus and newly defined inferior interosseous cavity presenting the strongest relationships (τb 0.223–0.504). Individual regression models using the approximate volume of each feature predicted sex with over 80% accuracy, but when combined in a single regression model, the accuracy increased to an impressive 97.1%. When then applied to the validation sample, the final estimation model achieved an accuracy of 90.7%. These results highlight the high estimation accuracy achieved by simultaneously utilizing the approximate volume of the sulcus and the inferior cavity. This is not only highly accurate but also utilizes the sturdier posterior pelvis, making it a promising tool for forensic investigations and the wider field of osteology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context.--: Autopsies performed on COVID-19 patients have provided critical information about SARS-CoV-2's tropism, mechanisms of tissue injury, and spectrum of disease. Objective.--: To provide an updated database of postmortem disease in COVID-19 patients, assess relationships among clinical and pathologic variables, evaluate the accuracy of death certification, and correlate disease variables to causes of death. Design.--: The 272 postmortem examinations reported in this paper were submitted by 14 pathologists from 9 medical or forensic institutions across the United States. The study spans the eras of the 3 principal COVID-19 strains and incorporates surveyed demographic, clinical, and postmortem data from decedents infected with SARS-CoV-2, including primary and contributing causes of death. It is the largest database of its kind to date. Results.--: Demographics of the decedents reported here correspond well to national statistics. Primary causes of death as determined by autopsy and official death certificates were significantly correlated. When specifically cited disease conditions found at autopsy were correlated with COVID-19 versus non-COVID-19 deaths, only lung findings characteristic of SARS-CoV-2 infection or the absence of lung findings were significantly associated. Conclusions.--: Changes in hospitalization and disease likely stem from longer lifespans after COVID-19 diagnosis and alteration in treatment approaches. Although Omicron variants preferentially replicate in the upper airways, autopsied patients who died of COVID-19 in that time period showed the same lung damage as earlier decedents. Most importantly, findings suggest that there are still unelucidated risk factors for death from COVID-19 including possibly genetic susceptibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]