Forensic entomology complements medicolegal investigations by studying insects at the crime scene. In Colombia, studies that characterized the succession of cadaver entomofauna have been published. However, in Tunja (Boyacá), the information related to evaluating the decomposition process and the fauna associated with cadavers is incipient. Therefore, this study aimed to describe that process under the environmental conditions of the municipality. Four pig cadavers were used to monitor decomposition and collect the visiting species. We conducted a descriptive statistical analysis with diversity indexes and a canonical correspondence analysis to evaluate the possible relations among decomposition stages, the species, and environmental variables. The observed decomposition process was atypical, presenting a prolonged duration of the early cadaveric phenomena and a low number of arthropods attracted to the cadavers. In total, we collected 1 249 arthropods. The Diptera and Coleoptera orders were the most abundant, representing 55.7% and 33.7%, respectively. The Calliphoridae family represented 64.7% of the Diptera fauna succession, with Calliphora vicina and Chrysomya albiceps as the most abundant species and the first colonizers under the conditions of the study zone. The results provide information about the entomofauna associated with decomposing bodies in the municipality of Tunja. Due to the environmental conditions of the study zone, we could demonstrate that factors like rainfall and temperature could delay colonization and the onset times of cadaveric phenomena.

Age at death is one of the key elements of the “biological profile” prepared when analysing unidentified human remains. Biological age is determined according to physiological indicators and developmental stage, which can be determined by bone assessment. It is worth remembering that the researcher must interpret each case individually and in accordance with the current state of knowledge. One of the most developed tools for analysing human remains is postmortem computed tomography. This allows for the visualization not only of bones without maceration but also of the entire body under various altered states, including corpses in advanced stages of decomposition and burnt bodies. The aim of this review is to present the current methods for age estimation based on postmortem computed tomography evaluation, comparing the results presented in 18 research projects published between 2013 and 2023 on foetuses, children, and adults from contemporary populations. Recent literature includes assessment of bones and characteristics such as skulls, teeth, vertebrae, pelvises, and long bones to estimate age at death. We cover the methods used in this recent literature, including machine learning, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of them.

Geometric morphometrics is a method that offers a mathematical description of biological forms based on geometric definitions of their size and shape, enabling the discrimination between species. In this study, we aimed to utilize geometric morphometrics as a valuable tool for identifying Sarcophagidae species, a family of flies that are challenging to distinguish morphologically. We collected a total of 80 wings (both left and right) from male individuals representing nine species (Sarcophaga africa, Sarcophaga argyrostoma, Sarcophaga hirticrus, Sarcophaga jacobsoni, Sarcophaga lehmanni, Sarcophaga melanura, Sarcophaga pandellei, Sarcophaga portschinskyi, and Sarcophaga teretirostris). These wings were removed, mounted on microscope slides, photographed, and digitized using 15 landmarks. The results demonstrated effective differentiation among seven species, representing significant progress in the expedited identification of Sarcophaga species. Due to its speed, affordability, and user-friendly nature, the wing landmark-based geometric morphometrics, when combined with taxonomy, can enhance the robustness of Sarcophagidae analyses and prove to be useful for discriminating flesh flies in forensic contexts.

The Han nationality is widely distributed in different regions, and it is one of the most populous nationalities in China. Compared with the ethnic minorities in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, there is relatively less research on Han individuals dwelled in Guangxi as a part of Chinese Han population. In this study, the genetic polymorphisms of 57 autosomal insertion/deletion (InDel) loci were explored in Hezhou Han (HZH) population. Forensic-related parameters revealed that these 57 InDel loci had high forensic validity and could be used in forensic practice application. In addition, the genetic relationships between the HZH population and 30 worldwide reference populations were explored using a variety of analytical methods, such as phylogenetic tree, principal component analysis, and genetic structure analysis. These results demonstrated that therewere closer genetic relationships between the HZH and nine populations from East Asia (EAS). The prediction accuracy rates of five inter-continental cross-validation analyses for individuals from EAS was > 0.9, and the prediction accuracy rates of three inter-continental cross-validation analyses for individuals from EAS, Europe, and Africa were all > 0.95. In addition, 24 of the 57 InDel loci could be served as ancestral information inference loci, which could effectively distinguish individuals of EAS, Europe, and Africa. In conclusion, these InDel loci could be used not only as a good tool for individual identification and paternity testing in HZH population, but also as an auxiliary tool for ancestry information inference research.

Potassium chlorate has long been utilized as an excellent oxidizing agent in pyrotechnics and explosives. As mixtures of potassium chlorate and any type of combustible material can be explosive, there is a potential risk of misuse in homemade explosives. Unlike commercial explosives, homemade chlorate and oil mixtures do not have a constant composition, which limits their understanding. This study reports the effects of two types of oil (motor oil and cooking oil) and their ratios (ranging from 2.5% to 40.0% (w/w)) on the explosive properties of such mixtures. The impact sensitivity was highest at a motor oil ratio of 5%. The friction sensitivity increased with an increasing oil ratio, reaching a maximum at an oil ratio of ∼22.5%, and was close to those of primary explosives. The motor oil mixtures exhibited higher sensitivity than the cooking oil mixtures at oil ratios of 25.0% or less. A 10% oil mixture, which was close to the ratio of oxygen balance equal to zero, detonated in weak confinement, such as a paper cylinder. The highest detonation velocities in a polypropylene tube were ∼2 300 and 2 550 m/s at a 10% ratio of motor oil and cooking oil, respectively. The velocities of the metal case wall, measured by photonic Doppler velocimetry, reached ∼1100 m/s near the end of acceleration. These results show that homemade chlorate and oil mixtures are capable of detonation and quite sensitive over a wide range of oil ratios, with sufficient power to cause damage in the vicinity.

The analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is suitable for fingernail/hair shaft samples in forensic science. A successful mtDNA forensic analysis depends on the quantity and quality of the mtDNA. The application of massively parallel sequence techniques to the analysis of mtDNA has the potential to improve the recovery of genetic information from difficult forensic specimens and to increase the discrimination potential of mtDNA by capturing and comparing full mtGenomes. In this study, we constructed mtDNA-specific standard curves using real-time PCR. The 105-base pair target sequence facilitates the amplification of degraded DNA and is minimally homologous to non-human mtDNA. The results indicated that the assay enables the absolute quantification of down to 10 copies of mtDNA and provides a dynamic range of eight orders of magnitude. Whole mtGenome sequencing experiments demonstrated that as few as 2 000 mtDNA copies resulted in a successful full region amplification and sequencing. Moreover, the frequency of point heteroplasmy from one donor showed that hairs from the same donor have been found to differ within and among themselves and from other tissues, which could impact the interpretation of the results obtained in a forensic investigation.

Humanitarian forensic action (HFA) is practiced in many parts of the world. In recent years, with the development of forensic humanitarian methods and applications and the increasing inclusion or even prioritization of HFA by organizations and institutions, research in this field has evidenced greater depth and diversity, although perspectives from the humanities and some disciplines remain limited. In-depth inquiries into this topic and an analysis of regional humanitarian data reveal the existence of ideological and cultural foundations for HFA in East Asia. At the same time, given past occurrences of natural disasters and large-scale wars in this region, the need and motivation for advancing this field and developing HFA is considerable. Currently, because of a lack of practical experience of HFA in East Asia, research on this relevant topic in the region focuses on the development of humanitarian forensic applications. Consequently, studies reporting on social surveys, psychological care and other methods are limited. It is to be hoped that East Asian countries will improve their practical HFA applications, while simultaneously carrying out social surveys and social scientific research on all aspects of HFA.

In the past few years, forensic DNA phenotyping has attracted a strong interest in the forensic research. Among the increasing publications, many have focused on testing the available panels to infer biogeographical ancestry on less represented populations and understanding the genetic mechanisms underlying externally visible characteristics. However, there are currently no publications that gather all the existing panels limited to forensic DNA phenotyping and discuss the main technical limitations of the technique. In this review, we performed a bibliographic search in Scopus database of phenotyping-related literature, which resulted in a total of 48, 43, and 15 panels for biogeographical ancestry, externally visible characteristics, and both traits inference, respectively. Here we provide a list of commercial and non-commercial panels and the limitations regarding the lack of harmonization in terms of terminology (i.e., categorization and measurement of traits) and reporting, the lack of genetic knowledge and environment influence to select markers and develop panels, and the debate surrounding the selection of genotyping technologies and prediction models and algorithms. In conclusion, this review aims to be an updated guide and to present an overview of the current related literature.

Accurate determination of sex from the skeletal remains of unidentified individuals is challenging in forensic practice. The bone standards for sex determination are population and generation specific. The present study investigated the potential utility of the craniofacial bones as an indicator of sex in a contemporary sample of the central Chinese population. A total of 171 adults (75 male, 96 female) of known age and sex underwent cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). A three-dimensional image from skull CBCT was reconstructed using specialized software (SimPlant Pro, version 11.04). Eleven linear measurements were selected to be measured, nine of which were sexually dimorphic. Discriminant function analysis (DFA) and logistic regression analysis (LRA) were used to develop mathematical models for sex determination. The equations of various variable combinations achieved classification rates of 83.6% in DFA and 84.8% in LRA, with cross-validation rates > 80%. Results of the present study indicated that the accuracy of the craniofacial bones to determine sex could reach > 80%, and bizygomatic breadth was the most sexually dimorphic variable among the craniofacial bones.

Most of the cells found in fingerprints belong to the cornified barrier of the epidermis (stratum corneum), lack nuclei and cytoplasmic organelles, and are filled with keratin. Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA is degraded and embedded in the keratin mesh, a very resistant protein that is difficult to remove during DNA extraction. In this work, we studied the possible negative effect of keratin on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) reactions and the influence of keratinase and proteinase K on the extraction of DNA from fingerprints. The role of glycogen in the DNA yield during the precipitation step and the importance of washing the obtained DNA with 70% ethanol were also studied. DNA was extracted from 96 fingerprints corresponding to recent prints and stored for 0, 1, 5, and 18 months from six individuals. No differences were observed in the concentration of extracted DNA or in the number of nuclear Short Tandem Repeat (STR) alleles in the genetic profiles of fingerprints stored during different times. However, sex differences were observed in both the concentration of DNA obtained and the number of nuclear STR alleles detected, being lower in females than in males. In 80% of the fingerprints genetic profiles were obtained with at least half of the STR nuclear markers and, in 50% of the fingerprints genetic profiles were obtained with more than 90% of the markers, which would allow an unambiguous identification of the donor. In all fingerprints where mitochondrial DNA was analyzed, complete sequencing of the HV1 and HV2 regions was possible, which increases the accuracy of the results obtained. The optimized protocol allowed obtaining a complete STR nuclear genetic profile of a 20-year-old palmprint.

This study evaluates mathematical tools (principal component analysis, dynamic time warping, and the Kolmogorov–Smirnov hypothesis test) to analyse global and local data from dynamic signatures to reduce subjectivity and increase the reproducibility of handwriting examination using a two-step approach. A dataset composed of 1 800 genuine signature samples, 870 simulated signatures, and 60 disguises (30 formally similar or “autosimulated” and 30 random but different from usual) provided by 30 volunteers was collected. The first step involved global data analysis using principal component analysis and a hypothesis test performed for 62 global characteristics, and associations of these characteristics were analysed through calculations of multivariate distance followed by a hypothesis test. The second step involved the analysis of local characteristics including vertical and horizontal positions, speed, pressure gradient, acceleration, and jerk point-to-point, by using dynamic time warping followed by a hypothesis test. Optimization of sensitivity and specificity metrics of the hypothesis test was explored by varying its stringency and observing accuracy rates for the simulated and genuine groups. A P-value threshold of 1×10−10 was found to be optimal, making the test more restrictive and yielding accuracy rates of 96.7% for genuine global data and 88.9% for simulated data. The same cut-off value for local characteristics provided an average accuracy rate of 95.4% for genuine samples and 94.7% for simulated samples, demonstrating high accuracy for both simulated and genuine samples. However, the method did not offer reasonable accuracy rates for disguises, consistent with observations in traditional handwriting examination. Our approach provided satisfactory results for forensic examination use. The visualization of graphs and signatures and analysis of all identifying elements of handwriting by the examining expert are still essential. In future studies, we plan to perform blind tests to validate our approach and propose a rigorous methodology.

In the realm of document examination, the identification of suspicious alterations to handwritten documents is an important factor in case characterization. Investigating the differences in gel pen ink compositions has significant implications. In this study, we used desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) to analyze the ink compositions of gel pens. The methodology involved the following steps. (i) Sample selection: a total of 227 gel pens available in the market were procured for the study. (ii) Pre-experimental parameter exploration: preliminary experiments were performed to optimize the experimental parameters. (iii) Analytical technique: DESI-MS was used to collect compositional data from the gel pen ink samples, without requiring pre-treatment of the samples. (iv) Data analysis: the obtained data were analyzed using the Davies–Bouldin index, Calinski–Harabasz index, and K-means algorithm for ink sample classification. The experimental findings indicated that DESI-MS is a viable method for examining the ink compositions of gel pens. Notably, the testing process is minimally destructive and does not necessitate pre-treatment of the samples. Furthermore, variations in the ink compositions were observed among different models of gel pens within the same brand, and the extent of the variation in the composition varied across brands. Additionally, there were instances in which the ink compositions of different brands of gel pens exhibited similarities.

Like other pattern recognition disciplines, forensic handwriting examination relies on various human factors. Expert opinions in the field are based on visual analysis and comparison, and the evaluation of findings is generally conducted without reference to tabulated data. This high level of subjectivity may contribute to bias and error in the examination process. In this paper, we draw on our research and practical experience to discuss error mitigation on several levels, addressing both aspects of quality management and the individual responsibility of examiners. Because a good understanding of the concept of error is needed to communicate appropriately about this subject, definitions of error-related concepts are provided. We consider contextual information management essential to reduce the potential for cognitive bias in casework. To ensure completeness of findings and avoid omission errors, the use of checklists during a forensic handwriting examination is encouraged, and an exemplary checklist incorporating all the examination steps is provided. We consider the use of a logical reasoning approach to evaluate findings an important step towards robustness and transparency in the examiner's report. An independent, blinded peer review of the examination is recommended as a further key step in error mitigation. Regular participation in testing programmes and continuous training and education are essential to maintaining and improving competency at both individual and organizational levels. Finally, developments in the form of tabulated data and the use of algorithms are considered useful ways of increasing objectivity in the field and minimizing human error.

With various calls in the forensic scientific literature for pattern-matching disciplines to adopt evaluative reporting, which is also known as the likelihood ratio or logical approach, practitioners used to reporting evidence under a more traditional paradigm may have a level of apprehension and face a steep learning curve. There may be doubts about the benefits of evaluative reporting, when it applies and when it does not, what it actually entails, its validity, and how to explain it in court. These questions and more are answered in this comprehensive collection of frequently asked questions on evaluative reporting. While the focus is on providing context for forensic handwriting examiners, many of the questions and answers are general in nature and the concepts can be applied to other disciplines.

The characteristics of commercially available thermochromic ink pens have been studied and described since their appearance in 2006. The wide variety of brands and models now available warrants further study using an expanded sample size, to differentiate the general characteristics from specific characteristics. Herein, the ink strokes of 15 pens purchased in the province of Córdoba, Argentina were studied. First, the initial unaltered strokes were examined. Second, heat-manipulated strokes (with and without friction) were evaluated. Several characterization techniques were employed, such as observation by the naked eye, optical magnification, and light irradiation using different spectral bands. In 100% of the unaltered strokes, the general characteristics of thermochromic inks, such as ink accumulation at the end of the stroke path and a “pasty appearance”, were found. It was possible to visualize colourless strokes (i.e. erased strokes) based on their contrast with the paper by shining oblique light at an opposite angle to that of the observation. In addition, the responses to ultraviolet (UV) (365 and 254 nm) and cyan light (505 nm) by infrared techniques were useful for distinguishing the thermochromic ink. Specific characteristics, such as high relief in areas of ink accumulation, less ink accumulation in the internal zone of the stroke, and intensity differences in infrared radiation (IR) luminescence emitted by different brands and models, could be useful in determining the writing tool that was used.

In forensic laboratories, analytical investigations of gunshot residues (GSRs) are usually conducted by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in combination with energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis. If GSRs are covered with bloodstains, SEM cannot detect them. In this study, an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method is proposed to solve this problem. Results show that bloodstains did not interfere with GSRs and low-level elements are detected. Qualitative and quantitative analyses of Sn, Sb, Ba, and Pb elements in GSRs are also carried out. Different pretreatment methods are adopted according to the characteristics of different samples. Our investigations suggest that the proposed method has the advantages of low detection limit and high sensitivity and it can be very important in expert testimony.

Establishing a positive identification of human remains found in a forensic setting is often accomplished through DNA, fingerprints, or odontology. However, when these primary identifiers cannot be applied, practitioners can rely on combining points of concordance derived from other identification modalities such as antemortem trauma, pathology, or unique skeletal morphologies to build up a case for identification. In order to conduct these comparisons, forensic anthropologists must be well trained and experienced in human skeletal variation and antemortem trauma to properly evaluate a particular skeletal trait and understand its value with respect to personal identification. In addition to macroscopic analysis of skeletal features and standard radiographic images, recent forensic anthropological efforts of establishing personal identity from the skeleton have employed high-quality clinical imaging technologies. This article presents three forensic anthropological cases in which positive identification was established on the basis of multiple antemortem to postmortem comparison modalities that included skeletal variation, antemortem fracture morphologies, trabecular patterns, dental traits, and implanted surgical devices. These cases use a variety of imaging techniques, such as cranial radiographic images, dental radiographs, computed tomography, photography, and 3D surface scans of the skeletal remains, to achieve personal identification.

“I still don't realize that he's dead.... I cried over it. It makes me sad to know that he was buried unaccompanied on his last trip. We were all shocked.” This testimony corresponds to a family whose relative was buried in an anonymous grave 6 months after his disappearance was reported to the police. It is estimated that between 1 000 and 3 000 unidentified bodies are buried in anonymous graves in France each year. Most of these decedents have passed through the medico-legal system. However the identification of these bodies, outside the context of mass disasters, remains a complex problem. Several national and international publications have highlighted the prevalent problem of unidentified burials and the consequences for families who do not know the fate of their loved ones, specifically, whether they are alive or deceased. This 6-year retrospective study (2018–2023), covering a total of 2 324 unidentified decedents admitted to the Institute of Medical-Legal Paris (IMLP), aimed to assess the impact of the identification protocol implemented in 2017 on the number of bodies that remain unidentified (n = 164). In addition, this study aimed to establish profiles for individuals who remained unidentified with the objective of identifying the factors that hinder their identification and developing correlated methods to address these issues. The results of this study were compared with other published studies to highlight the global problem and the ongoing need for collaboration between forensic practitioners and relevant authorities.

Mummification of corpses with partial skeletonization is not an uncommon occurrence in daily forensic work. Cooperation between different forensic fields is important in these cases in terms of obtaining the most accurate and forensically relevant results, especially when child abuse and neglect is suspected. In Central Europe, up to 21% of children are exposed to physical and psychological harm, which is mostly perpetrated by family members. This report describes a case of subadult female mummified remains in which interdisciplinary forensic pathology, forensic anthropology, and entomology input was needed to obtain legally relevant results. Entomological analysis of the fly and beetle species present served primarily to estimate the postmortem interval. External examination confirmed advanced postmortem decomposition of the body. The anthropological findings based on radiographs and analysis of selected bones confirmed various antemortem fractures and post-traumatic changes involving the ribs, the distal portion of the humerus, the nasal bones, and the anterior portions of themaxilla andmandible. Furthermore, non-specific findings of growth arrest (Harris) lines in the distal metaphysis of the right tibia indicated growth retardation and, overall, child neglect. The autopsy findings confirmed subdural blood coagulum, part of which formed a clearly moulded plaster mass that had originally been attached to the cranial vault up to the internal lamina. The findings indicated a post-traumatic condition as the underlying cause of death in this child. Interdisciplinary forensic analyses confirmed that the child had been repeatedly exposed to violent assaults throughout her lifetime.

Identification of unidentified remains involves a comparison of ante- and postmortem features using biological identifiers. Anthropological identifiers, referred to by International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) as secondary identifiers, have often been judged less reliable than DNA, fingerprints and dental records (referred to as primary identifiers). However, anthropological identifiers have been proven as discriminatory as the primary sources in many instances, and play a decisive role in positive identification. To guarantee better use of anthropological identifiers, it is not only essential to develop standard protocols and statistical frameworks, but also to test different identification approaches in cases from daily practice. Evidence of skeletal antemortem trauma can be a valuable aid in the identification process, especially if the exact type of traumatic event causing the injury is identified. Here, we present a case in which the combination of anthropological analysis and imaging confirmed an interesting and unique sequence of antemortem traumatic events in incomplete skeletal remains. The remains were assumed to pertain to an individual who went missing several years earlier, and whose medical records revealed a unique history of trauma to the right femur. The individual had sustained a fracture due to a fall from a high height followed, 10 years after the primary trauma, by a gunshot wound to the same bone; both treated by intramedullary nail fixation. While the anthropological analysis matched the biological profile of the missing individual and identified a healed defect to the right femur compatible with a gunshot wound, the radiological examination indicated that the bone underwent three surgical procedures on different occasions. Radiological examination also identified a pre-existing healed fracture adjacent to the gunshot defect. In addition to presenting the identification process in this specific case, this article discusses the difficulties in antemortem trauma interpretation, importance of combining macroscopic and radiological analysis to aid the reconstruction of previous traumatic events and mechanisms of injury from healed fractures that can play important roles in forensic human identification.

Forensic anthropology and forensic facial image identification are areas with two aspects in common: (i) the use of anthropological knowledge concerning human variation in their analyses and (ii) low numbers of accredited forensic units. While the low numbers are often explained by the uniqueness of human identification cases, given the high level of scrutiny in the forensic sciences, interest in and efforts to achieve accreditation have become increasingly prominent. Therefore, this study aimed to obtain accreditation-relevant information about the working environment in facial image comparison units by surveying facial examiners across Europe. Two surveys were distributed: One was given to participants of a European Commission-funded training course for technical assessors in facial image comparison, and the second, more comprehensive survey, was distributed to members of the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes Digital Imaging Working Group. Thirty-four responses from facial examiners from 16 countries were received. All respondents worked for a governmental organization, nine (26.5%) in accredited units, and 12(35.3%) had worked as facial examiners for more than 11 years. More than 80% of respondents had an academic background. All examiners from accredited units reported having standard operating procedures, annual Digital Imaging Working Group proficiency testing, and using a standard methodology (compared with 72%, 92%, and 84% from nonaccredited units, respectively). The survey found that working conditions in forensic facial image identification vary among European countries. Some respondents from nonaccredited units reported that their unit had no standard operating procedures, with proficiency tests and intralaboratory validations not performed regularly, and an inconsistently used standard methodology. As these conditions are typically required for successful accreditation, a better understanding of best practice and accreditation requirements in the field is needed. Facilitating interactions between forensic practitioners and quality managers may prove beneficial for future accreditation efforts.

The estimation of the postmortem interval for skeletal remains is a crucial aspect of forensic anthropology. This paper illustrates the importance of radiocarbon analysis for establishing medico-legal significance and supporting forensic identification, through the analysis of three case studies for which the years of both birth and death were investigated. In Audresselles, Northern France, a partial skull was discovered with no contextual information or identity. Radiocarbon dating yielded an average calibrated calendar age of 4232 BCE (92.5% probability), indicating significant archaeological value but no forensic relevance. In the second case, skeletal remains were found in the flooded underground of a historical fort at Wimereux, Northern France, also with no identity. Radiocarbon dating based on the bomb-pulse curve indicated a calibrated date of death in 1962 CE (37.3% probability) or 1974–1975 CE (58.1% probability), both surpassing the French statute of limitations. Lastly, a skeleton with a suspected identity was discovered near Valenciennes, Northern France, and various biological tissues underwent radiocarbon dating. A bone sample suggested a calibrated date of death of 1998–2002 CE (84.6% probability), differing from a hair sample (2013–2018 CE, 83.3% probability) because of the slower bone tissue remodeling process. DNA analysis confirmed the person's identity, reported missing a decade prior to the discovery of the remains, following the alignment of the radiocarbon results with the individual's year of birth based on dental tissues and year of death. These case studies reveal that traditional radiocarbon dating and bomb-pulse dating are essential tools for estimating the postmortem interval, providing mutual benefits for archaeologists, forensic anthropologists, and the criminal justice system.

This article presents a series of three complex forensic cases that posed significant challenges for identifying human remains. These include a mass dam disaster, burnt human remains, and extensively decomposed human remains. Positive identification was achieved using a shadow positioning technique with imaging comparisons of medical findings. After establishing the biological profile, medical data were evaluated with digital radiography and computed tomography examinations the human remains. These aimed to replicate the original (intravitam) traits in the same angulation to examine postsurgical characteristics, as well as the anatomical, pathological, and morphological features, which were sufficient to establish a positive scientific identification. Technological advancements tend to reveal additional skeletal details, making medical data comparisons significantly more effective in the context of anthropological identification. These cases demonstrate that the possibility of identification should never be ignored, even in situations with advanced decomposition.

In rural Crete, Greece, a mummified body was discovered inside a screw-top plastic barrel next to a dry riverbed. Local authorities conducted a field investigation along with a forensic pathologist, and the body was transferred inside the barrel to the Forensic Medicine Unit of the University of Crete for further investigation. Forensic examination included radiographs taken using a portable X-ray machine in situ followed by extraction of the remains, a full-body postmortem computed tomography scan, autopsy, DNA extraction, tissue and biofluid sampling, and histological and toxicological analyses. Two butane camping gases were recovered from inside the barrel. The remains were determined to belong to a middle-aged adult male. The postmortem interval was estimated to be over 4 months. DNA comparison revealed that the body belonged to a 58-year-old man who was reported missing 28 months prior to discovery. Examinations showed no evidence of skeletal or other trauma, and death was attributed to asphyxia due to oxygen deprivation. Careful examination of the barrel, which bore several peculiar modifications, in conjunction with contextual information pertaining to the deceased's personal life, led to successful case resolution.

The New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner (NYC OCME) investigates approximately 9 000–10 000 deaths every year, each of which necessitates a formal identification. Although standard identification protocols resolve the majority of these cases, there are still a substantial number of long-term unidentified persons cases that require a targeted investigation. This process involves not only the comprehensive review of all available postmortem data (e.g. scene findings, personal effects, autopsy findings, toxicology results, forensic anthropology reports, dental findings, fingerprints, forensic biology), but also the collection of antemortem data through focused informant interviews, analyzing casefiles and/or archival records, reviewing public missing person postings (e.g. National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs)), and collaborating with law enforcement and other agencies. This holistic approach to identification investigations is systematic yet flexible, allowing for the needs of each unidentified person and/or missing person case to be thoroughly assessed and efficiently addressed. These efforts have proven successful at NYC OCME, resulting in over 80 long-term unidentified persons identifications confirmed in the last 7 years, dating as far back as 1969. This paper provides a detailed breakdown of the NYC OCME framework for long-term unidentified persons investigations, citing multiple case studies to underscore how investigators utilize multiple lines of evidence to generate potential leads. Although each jurisdiction faces a unique set of demands and limitations, sharing these investigative strategies and perspectives may benefit practitioners contending with long-term unidentified persons cases and their inherent complexities.

A multidisciplinary approach in the investigation of unidentified decedents employs the use of a variety of scientific approaches. This approach is applied in casework in North Carolina, USA and has led to successful identifications using anthropological analysis and population affinity estimation using 3D-ID, investigative genetic geneaology (IGG), and isotopic analyses. Results from one scientific approach can help to inform the others, providing more information about the decedent, and thus enhancing the investigation. This case report outlines three cases from North Carolina that combine each of these scientific approaches and serve as examples of collaboration in a multidisciplinary approach.

If there is a category of war victims for whom the identification process has been and still remains an extremely challenging issue, it is the soldiers of World War One. There are various reasons for this, including unreliable identity tags, the unprecedented number of casualties, and the level of destruction caused by the massive use of “new” weapons. In Italy, this phenomenon was so severe and well-known that a monument was erected in Rome specifically in memory of those unknown soldiers (“Tomba del Milite Ignoto”). However, modern techniques in forensic archaeology and anthropology can facilitate identification even in this extreme context. In the casework described here, the presence of human remains was reported to the judicial authorities, which were subsequently located and excavated in a remote region of the Italian Alps using a range of techniques, including drone imagery, GPR, and micromorphological surveying. During the archaeological excavation of the human remains, a World War One zinc identification tag in very poor condition was found adjacent to the body. The biological profile was estimated (male, 20–30 years old, 166cm±3.27 cm), and a trauma survey was performed. Thanks to the restoration of the ID tag, parts of the name and enrolment number were found and cross-referenced with the anthropological data of the subject, matching the information in the available military records. The victim had no siblings or offspring, making it impossible to identify descendants. However, the operation led to a contextual/presumptive identification of the soldier and the discovery of his story. He was a native of Tuscany, who died during the “Punitive Expedition” (1916) and was buried, probably by his comrades, in a small flat area hidden from enemy lines. In investigations like this, the involvement of local communities, whether groups or individuals, is crucial. In this case report, it will be shown how multidisciplinary approaches and collective actions can play a pivotal role in resolving highly intricate scenarios, such as those pertaining to armed conflicts.

Air crashes or explosions with numerous victims may result in thousands of fragmented human remains that present a massive challenge for disaster victim identification teams. Genetic identification may present important financial and technical limits, and the physical re-association of fractured bones by forensic anthropologists may require a time-consuming phase of cleaning and drying. A virtual re-association (VRA) of fragmented human remains using postmortem computed tomography (CT)-scan images could enhance the identification process and reduce the number of genetic analyses required. Therefore, this study investigated the advantages and limitations of a VRA protocol in comparison with physical re-association (PRA) in a laboratory setting and in a real case scenario. As a first step, six porcine femurs were scanned by multi-detector CT before and after physical fragmentation. PRA of the dry bones and VRA of the 3D models of the fragments were then performed. The physically reconstructed dry bones were then once more scanned with CT. The mean distance between intact and reconstructed models, the number of re-associated fragments, and the time needed for the reconstruction were evaluated. In a second step, 87 fragmented remains resulting from a controlled pig bombing were collected, scanned, and virtually re-associated to test the feasibility of the protocol in a real context. The reconstruction of the femurs showed no difference in accuracy between PRA and VRA. Although the VRA was faster than PRA, the preparation of the material still needs to be taken into consideration. The VRA after the controlled pig bombing was limited to 8% of the total fragments. Differences in alveolar and cortical osseous structure and the presence of cartilage resulted in segmentation approximations and difficulties in the re-association itself. The explosion produced an important loss of intermediate bone elements. The VRA method still needs further evaluations with a larger sample size and different fragmentation mechanisms. However, the presented research shows promising results towards enhancing the efficiency of identifying individuals after a mass disaster.

When human remains are inadvertently located, case-related circumstantial information is used to generate an identification hypothesis, and the preservation of the remains typically informs which identification methods may then be used to validate that hypothesis. What happens, however, when there is no contextual information to generate an identification hypothesis? This paper presents the case of a near-complete human skeleton discovered at Sandy Point in Victoria, Australia. The circumstances of the case did not facilitate an identification hypothesis, and with no hypothesis to triage the identification process, all possible identification methods were employed. Preservation of the individual meant neither a visual nor a fingerprint identification was possible, and the lack of an identification hypothesis meant there was no antemortem reference data to compare with the postmortem DNA or dental information. Consequently, in addition to historical research, novel methods, such as radiocarbon dating and genetic intelligence, were utilized to complement information provided by the forensic anthropology and odontology analyses, which ultimately resulted in the identification. This example highlights the complexity of cases of unidentified skeletal remains and emphasizes the fact that identification is a process that necessarily requires a multidisciplinary and collaborative approach.

Ethanol blood analysis is the most common request in forensic toxicology, and some studies point to positive results in approximately one-third of all unnatural deaths. However, distinguishing sober deaths from drunk deaths is not as simple as it may seem. This technical, clinical, and forensic interpretation is proposed to interpret the ethanol toxicological results, discussing several artefacts and pitfalls that must be considered, namely focusing on driving under the influence. This work is presented with a practical and objective approach, aiming to alleviate the complexities associated with clinical, physiological, pathophysiological, and toxicological aspects to enhance comprehension, practicality, and applicability of its content, especially to courts. Particularly the physical integrity of the body, the postmortem interval, putrefactive signs, anatomic place of blood collection, alternative samples such as vitreous humour and urine, the possibility of postmortem redistribution, the inclusion of preservatives in containers, and optimal temperature conditions of shipment are among some of the aspects to pay attention. Although several biomarkers related to postmortem microbial ethanol production have been proposed, their translation into forensic routine is slow to be implemented due to the uncertainties of their application and analytical difficulties. Specifically, in the interpretation of ethanol toxicological results, “not everything that can be counted counts and not everything that counts can be counted” (attributed to Albert Einstein).

Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, remote healthcare delivery by technological devices has become a growing practice. It represented an unprecedented change in personal and professional activities, allowing health specialists to continue working online by assisting their patients from home. Psychological practice greatly benefited from this innovation, guaranteeing diagnostic and therapeutic effectiveness through cyber counseling. However, in many countries there have been no enactments of specific laws nor adaptations of the professional deontological code aimed at regulating this new psychological practice dimension, generally defined as telepsychology. This article aims to briefly review the scientific literature on this tool's effectiveness and especially analyze the legal and operational framework in which telepsychology has been to date practiced in Italy and other national realities, thus providing a global overview that may be useful to understand how to improve this valuable but still immature practice.

In forensic scenarios, such as armed conflicts or mass disasters, the oral cavity can be a valuable source of identification information relevant to legal issues. In many European Union countries, it is mandatory to register dental records for identification purposes. A pilot and quasi-experimental study was performed. The study aims to analyze two methodologies, photography and wireless intraoral (IO) laser scanner, in the scope of the orofacial record in forensic pathology, highlighting their impact on human identification. The IO scanner i700 (Medit, Lusobionic, Portugal) and Canon 5D-Full Frame equipment were used to record the individual status, living patients (n = 5), and forensic cases (n = 5). IO and extraoral anatomical structures were recorded following six parameters: time, mineralized and soft detail, communication, extra devices, and distortion. The statistical analysis was performed in accordance with a scoring system and Mann–Whitney (P < 0.05) analysis. The photography method recorded extraoral data for all samples (score range between 15 and 23). The time elapsed to complete an IO scan in forensic cases was shorter than with photography, without requiring additional sources of light or mirror devices. Living patients and corpses identified statistically significant differences. It can be concluded that laser scanners are a valuable tool in the field of forensic pathology and can be used to record and analyze anatomic-morphological data for identification purposes accurately.

In paternity testing, when there are Mendelian errors in the alleles between the child and the parents, a slippage mutation, or silent allele may not fully explain the phenomenon. Sometimes, it is attributed to chromosomal abnormalities, such as uniparental disomy (UPD). Here, we present the investigation of two cases of suspected UPD in paternity testing based on short tandem repeat (STR) detection (capillary electrophoresis platform). Case 1 involves a trio, where all genotypes detected on chromosome 6 in the child are homozygous and found in the father. Case 2 is a duo (mother and child), where all genotypes on chromosome 3 in the child are homozygous and not always found in the mother. At the same time, Mendelian error alleles were also observed at specific loci in these two chromosomes. Furthermore, we used the MGIEasy Signature Identification Library Prep Kit for sequencing on the massively parallel sequencing platform, which included common autosomal, X and Y chromosomes, and mitochondrial genetic markers used in forensic practice. The results showed that the genotypes of shared STRs on the two platforms were consistent, and STRs and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on these two chromosomes were homozygous. All other genetic markers followed the laws of inheritance. A comprehensive analysis supported the parent–child relationship between the child and the alleged parent, and the observed genetic anomalies can be attributed to UPD. UPD occurrences are rare, and ignoring its presence can lead to erroneous exclusions in paternity testing, particularly when multiple loci on a chromosome exhibit homozygosity.

Sexual assault sample processing, despite recent funding and research efforts, remains time-consuming, labourious, and inefficient. These limitations, combined with the prevalence of sexual assaults, have prompted the need to develop a cheaper, quicker, and more robust method for separating victim and perpetrator contributions within sexual assault evidence so that analysts can keep pace with submissions and cases can be resolved in a timely manner. Thus, this study examined the use of a combined enzymatic and alkaline approach for differential cell lysis—with the goal of developing a quick, cheap, and more efficient DNA isolation method. Quantification results for this assay revealed that (72.0 ± 18.3)%, (15.8 ± 14.2)%, and (29.5 ± 23.7)% of total DNA were retained in sperm fractions for neat semen, neat vaginal, and semen–vaginal mixture eluates, respectively. Short tandem repeat (STR) analysis of mixture samples processed with this technique exhibited sperm fraction DNA profiles with mean male-to-female ratios of 1.74:1, which was a 3.01 ± 2.30-fold improvement in male-to-female ratios and led to the recovery of 5.90 ± 7.80 unshared male contributor alleles in sperm fractions that were otherwise undetected in unseparated controls. Overall, this study presented a modified differential lysis approach using prepGEM? and sodium hydroxide treatments that can accomplish cell elution and fractional lysis within 25 min. Future studies should investigate alternative “non-sperm” cell lysis methods to enhance lysis efficiency and minimize the potential for inhibition, as well as the optimization and automation of this technique.

The goal of the following study is to clarify whether the skeletal remains over 70 years old from missing persons and their alleged relatives shared identical Y-STR loci. Nowadays, advances in ancient DNA extraction techniques and approaches of using multiple different Y-STRs have significantly increased the possibility of obtaining DNA profiles from highly degraded skeletal remains. Given the ages and conditions of the skeletal remains, ancient DNA extraction methods can be used to maximize the probability of DNA recovery. Considering that information about distant relatives is more relevant for long-term missing persons and alleged family members are male, Y-STR loci analysis is considered the most appropriate and informative approach for determining paternal lineage relationship. In this study, Y-STR genotypes obtained from these alleged relatives were identical to each other and to the alleles of missing persons' consensus profiles at more than 22 loci examined, whilst not being found in Y-STR population database from Y-Chromosome STR Haplotype Reference Database. Therefore, Missing Person No.7 and Missing Person No.18 have a patrilineal relationship with reference samples from Family1 and Family2, respectively. In addition, the fact that Y-STR haplotypes obtained from skeletal remains of missing persons and reference samples are not found in the Han Chinese people from East Asian demonstrates its rarity and further supports a paternal lineage relationship amongst them.

The biological profile estimation is the first step toward positive identification. However, it is not always possible to access a complete and well-preserved skeleton due to postmortem damage and taphonomic changes. As such, there is a need to develop new alternatives to analyze different bones of the human skeleton. The present study aims to analyze the patellar osteometry, with attention to its degree of sexual dimorphism, to establish a simple method for estimating sex in Portuguese adults. Six measurements were taken from 222 patella pairs, including 117 females and 105 males from the XXI Century Identified Skeleton Collection of the University of Coimbra. Subsequently, this method was validated in a different sample of 50 individuals equally representing both sexes. Maximum height stands out with a 77.0% of correct sex estimation, reaching 98.0% when applied to the new sample. The linear discriminant function analysis containing all the six variables showed the best results, with 80.2% of correct classification after cross-validation and 96.0% when applied to the independent sample.

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

Age assessment of the living is a fundamental procedure in the process of human identification, in order to guarantee fair treatment of individuals, which has ethical, civil, legal, and medical repercussions. The careful selection of the appropriate methods requires evaluation of several parameters: accuracy, precision of the method, as well as its reproducibility. The approach proposed by Mincer et al. adapted from Demirjian et al. exploring third molar mineralisation, is one of the most frequently considered for age estimation of the living. Thus, this work aims to assess potential bias in the data collection when applying the classification stages for dental mineralisation adapted by Mincer et al. A total of 102 orthopantomographs, of clinical origin, belonging to individuals aged between 12 and 25 years ( = 20.12 years, SD = 3.49 years; 65 females, 37 males, all of Portuguese nationality) were included and a retrospective analysis performed by five observers with different levels of experience (high, average, and basic). The performance and agreement between five observers were evaluated using Weighted Cohen's Kappa and the Intraclass Correlation Coefficient. To access the influence of impaction on third molar classification, variables were tested using ordinal logistic regression Generalised Linear Model. It was observed that there were variations in the number of teeth identified among the observers, but the agreement levels ranged from moderate to substantial (0.4-0.8). Upon closer examination of the results, it was observed that although there were discernible differences between highly experienced observers and those with less experience, the gap was not as significant as initially hypothesised, and a greater disparity between the classifications of the upper (0.24-0.49) and lower third molars (>0.55) was observed. When bone superimposition is present, the classification process is not significantly influenced; however, variation in teeth angulation affects the assessment. The results suggest that with an efficient preparation, the level of experience as a factor can be overcome. Mincer and colleague's classification system can be replicated with ease and consistency, even though the classification of upper and lower third molars presents distinct challenges.

The auricular cartilage, which is typically soft and flexible, can calcify or ossify because of diseases such as diabetes mellitus, trauma, radiation therapy for cancer, and more commonly from frostbite. Calcified, ossified, or hardened auricular cartilage is a rare finding in the clinical literature and appears to be absent in the physical and forensic anthropological literature. This study examines the ossified auricular cartilage and tests whether the hypothesis can be identified in postmortem skeletonized tissue and be part of the external auditory meatus. A total of 290 crania were examined for accessory ossicles. A descriptive and interpretative analysis was performed grossly, histologically, and morphometrically to document the morphology and location of the ossicles, investigate their structure, and perform hypothesis testing. Results revealed that seven females and one male crania from a total of 290 crania (2.76%) exhibit semi-ossified auricular cartilage attached to the tympanic plate of the temporal bone. The morphology and location of the ossicles at the junction of the auricle and external auditory meatus indicate they are hardened auricular cartilage that was verified with histological observations. Regression analysis indicates that addition of the ossicle to the depth of the auditory tube significantly changes coefficient of determination (R2) with respect to cranial breadth. In conclusion, results indicate that small cartilaginous structures of the external ear may ossify forming accessory tympanic plate ossicles that potentially could be identified in skeletal remains as a new osteological entity. This report highlights the types of information that can be gained using an approach that integrates forensic anthropology, gross anatomy, and histology.

Short tandem repeats (STRs) are the most common genetic markers in forensic and human population genetics due to their high polymorphism, rapid detection, and reliable genotyping. To adapt the rapid growth of forensic DNA database and solve problems in disputed cases, a panel of 23 autosomal STR loci with high discriminating ability was constructed recently. The Tai-Kadai-speaking Gelao is the most ancient indigenous minority in Guizhou province, however, the forensic efficiency and population genetic structure remain poorly explored. Here, 490 Guizhou Gelao individuals from Southwest China were genotyped with the panel of 23 STRs using the Huaxia Platinum Kit. A total of 265 alleles were screened. The combined discrimination power and the combined probability of paternity were 0.9999 and 0.9999, respectively. This indicated the 23 loci had higher discrimination power in Guizhou Gelao and could be applied to forensic practice. Comprehensive population structures with reference populations from China and abroad using the neighbour-joining phylogenetic tree (N-J tree), multidimensional scaling, principal component analysis and heatmap demonstrated that Guizhou Gelao was genetically closer to Guizhou Han than other populations. Moreover, our results showed that a complex phylogenetic model was influenced by ethnic, geographic, and linguistic factors.

Ongoing terrorist attacks in the Sahel region call for strengthening the security system by using human DNA identification technology. In this context, public opinion must be considered when establishing solid standards and universal safeguards for one of the most invasive forms of surveillance and profiling. For this purpose, we gathered internet users' opinions in Burkina Faso (a country located in the Sahel region) on the use of DNA technology to support criminal investigations. The results revealed that 91.7% (431) of the 470 participants believed that this technology is currently necessary for the Burkina Faso's criminal justice system. However, the respondents expressed concerns about the custody and management of a national forensic DNA database. In this particular security setting, the public opinion of this study may provide leaders and political policymakers with clues for considering genetic fingerprints and implementing an national forensic DNA database to support criminal investigations in Burkina Faso whilst also considering the ethical implications.

Insertion/Deletion (InDel) polymorphisms, characterized by their smaller amplicons, reduced mutation rates, and compatibility with the prevalent capillary electrophoresis (CE) platforms in forensic laboratories, significantly contribute to the advancement and application of genetic analysis. Guizhou province in China serves as an important region for investigating the genetic structure, ethnic group origins, and human evolution. However, DNA data and the sampling of present-day populations are lacking, especially about the InDel markers. Here, we reported data on 47 autosomal InDels from 592 individuals from four populations in Guizhou (Han, Dong, Yi, and Chuanqing). Genotyping was performed with the AGCU InDel 50 kit to evaluate their utility for forensic purposes and to explore the population genetic structure. Our findings showed no significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg and linkage equilibriums. The combined power of discrimination (CPD) and the combined power of exclusion (CPE) for each population demonstrated that the kit could be applied to forensic individual identification and was an effective supplement for parentage testing. Genetic structure analyses, including principal component analysis, multidimensional scaling, genetic distance calculation, STRUCTURE, and phylogenetic analysis, highlighted that the genetic proximity of the studied populations correlates with linguistic, geographical, and cultural factors. The observed genetic variances within four research populations were less pronounced than those discerned between populations across different regions. Notably, the Guizhou Han, Dong, and Chuanqing populations showed closer genetic affiliations with linguistically similar groups than the Guizhou Yi. These results underscore the potential of InDel markers in forensic science and provide insights into the genetic landscape and human evolution in multi-ethnic regions like Guizhou.

Several studies have evaluated the parameters of normality of the sella turcica (ST), which is important to face different craniofacial syndromes that may affect this structure. Therefore, this research summarized the scientific evidence on the role of ST in the sex estimation of nonsyndromic individuals. The research protocol was registered (Prospective International Registry of Systematic Reviews # CRD42021256469), followed by an electronic search in six databases (PubMed, LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and LIVIVO) and gray literature (Google Scholar and OpenGrey). Meta-analysis of linear (width, length, height, and diameter) and volumetric measurements, in addition to an assessment of risk of bias (RoB) and certainty of evidence, were performed. After the screening of 986 articles, 13 were evaluated by metaanalysis (1 307 males and 1 231 females). In subgroup analysis, females had lower values for width (lateral radiograph; ?0.67 mm; P = 0.040), length (computed tomography; ?0.23 mm; P = 0.020), and diameter (computed tomography; ?0.27 mm; P< 0.001) compared to males. There was no statistically significant difference regarding height (P = 0.95), area (P = 0.72), and volume (P = 0.21). Most studies exhibited moderate RoB, and the certainty of evidence of the outcomes was very low. In this review, significant differences were observed between the sexes for the length and diameter of the ST; however, the heterogeneity of the studies must be considered.

Fingerprints with similar morphological characteristics but from different individuals can lead to errors in individual identification, especially when dealing with large databases containing millions of fingerprints. To address this issue and enhance the accuracy of similar fingerprint identification, the use of the likelihood ratio (LR) model for quantitative evaluation of fingerprint evidence has emerged as an effective research method. In this study, the LR fingerprint evidence evaluation model was established by using mathematical statistical methods, such as parameter estimation and hypothesis testing. This involved various steps, including database construction, scoring, fitting, calculation, and visual evaluation. Under the same-source conditions, the optimal parameter methods selected by different number of minutiae are gamma andWeibull distribution, while normal, Weibull, and lognormal distributionswere the fitting parameters selected for minutiae configurations. The fitting parameters selected by different number of minutiae under different-source conditions are lognormal distribution, and the parameter methods selected for different minutiae configurations include Weibull, gamma, and lognormal distributions. The results of the LR model showed increased accuracy as the number of minutiae increased, indicating strong discriminative and corrective power. However, the accuracy of the LR evaluation based on different configurations was comparatively lower. In addition, the LR models with different numbers of minutiae outperformed those with different minutiae configurations. Our study shows that the use of LR models based on parametric methods is favoured in reducing the risk of fingerprint evidence misidentification, improving the quantitative assessment methods of fingerprint evidence, and promoting fingerprint identification from experience to science.

Opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, raw opium, and morphine have become a serious threat to the world population in the recent past, due to their increasing use and abuse. The detection of these drugs in biological samples is usually carried out by spectroscopic and/or chromatographic techniques, but the need for quick, sensitive, selective, and low-cost new analytical tools has pushed the development of new methods based on selective nanosensors, able to meet these requirements. Modern sensors, which utilize “next-generation” technologies like nanotechnology, have revolutionized drug detection methods, due to easiness of use, their low cost, and their high sensitivity and reliability, allowing the detection of opioids at trace levels in raw, pharmaceutical, and biological samples (e.g. blood, urine, saliva, and other biological fluids). The peculiar characteristics of these sensors not only have allowed on-site analyses (in the field, at the crime scene, etc.) but also they are nowadays replacing the gold standard analytical methods in the laboratory, even if a proper method validation is still required. This paper reviews advances in the field of nanotechnology and nanosensors for the detection of commonly abused opioids both prescribed (i.e. codeine and morphine) and illegal narcotics (i.e. heroin and fentanyl analogues).

Like other minoritized populations, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) females experience disparate morbidity and mortality outcomes to that of the general US population. This study identified discrepancies in reporting of AI/AN female decedents between the North Carolina Violent Death Reporting System (NC-VDRS) and an online, user-generated database. Female AI/AN decedent data of all ages were collected from the NC-VDRS and compared against that of the publicly available North Carolina Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW NC) database for the study period, 2004–2019. Twenty-four of the 72 cases matched between data systems (33.3%). Substantive differences between the NC-VDRS and the MMIW NC database were found. Future efforts should be directed towards supporting Indigenous communities with the comprehensive data the NC-VDRS can provide. This paper highlights statewide public health systems like the NC-VDRS supporting community efforts to understand, advocate for, and disseminate information on MMIW.

Human age estimation from trace samples may give important leads early in a police investigation by contributing to the description of the perpetrator. Several molecular biomarkers are available for the estimation of chronological age, and currently, DNA methylation patterns are the most promising. In this study, a QIAGEN age protocol for age estimation was tested by five forensic genetic laboratories. The assay comprised bisulfite treatment of the extracted DNA, amplification of five CpG loci (in the genes of ELOVL2, C1orf132, TRIM59, KLF14, and FHL2), and sequencing of the amplicons using the PyroMark Q48 platform. Blood samples from 49 individuals with ages ranging from 18 to 64 years as well as negative and methylation controls were analyzed. An existing age estimation model was applied to display a mean absolute deviation of 3.62 years within the reference data set.

The possible tendency of subjects to decrease, hide, or omit symptomatic aspects of their mental functioning is one of the main problems in forensic psychological and psychiatric evaluations. We aimed at verifying the possible existence of significant differences in the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory-III (MCMI-III) scales scores between a sample of dissimulators (n = 40) and their non-dissimulator counterpart matched by age, sex, and diagnosis. Cases and comparisons were retrieved from the archive of a single university forensic psychiatric centre between 2013 and 2022. Results showed statistically significant higher scores in the sample of dissimulators in the Desirability, Histrionic, Narcissistic, and Compulsive MCMI-III scales than in the comparison sample. Point biserial correlation test disclosed a strong positive correlation between the Desirability, Histrionic, Narcissistic, and Compulsive scales of the MCMI-III and being in the dissimulator group of subjects while a negative correlation emerged for all the other scales except drug dependence.

Bullet ricochets are common occurrences during shooting incidents and can provide a wealth of information useful for shooting incident reconstruction. However, there have only been a small number of studies that have systematically investigated bullet ricochet impact site morphology. Here, this study reports on an experiment that examined the plan-view morphology of 297 ricochet impact sites in concrete that were produced by five different bullet types shot from two distances. This study used a random forest machine learning algorithm to classify bullet types with morphological dimensions of the ricochet mark (impact) with length and perimeter-to-area ratio emerging as the top predictor variables. The 0.22 LR leaves the most distinctive impact mark on the concrete, and overall, the classification accuracy using leave-one-out cross-validation is 62%, considerably higher than a random classification accuracy of 20%. Adding in distance to the model as a predictor increases the classification accuracy to 66%. These initial results are promising, in that they suggest that an unknown bullet type can potentially be determined, or at least probabilistically assessed, from the morphology of the ricochet impact site alone. However, the substantial amount of overlap this study documented among distinct bullet types' ricochet mark morphologies under highly controlled conditions and with machine learning suggests that the human identification of ricochet marks in real-world shooting incident reconstructions may be on occasion, or perhaps regularly, in error.

The identification of historical military remains by Unrecovered War Casualties—Army (UWC-A) currently relies on Y-chromosome Short Tandem Repeat (Y-STR) testing when maternal relatives are not available, or when a mitochondrial DNA match does not provide sufficient certainty of identification. However, common Y-STR profiles (using Yfiler?) between sets of remains or families often prevent identification. To resolve these cases, an investigation of additional Y-DNA markers is needed for their potential inclusion into the DNA identification strategy. The number of genetic transmissions between missing soldiers and their living relatives needs to be considered to avoid false exclusions between paternal relatives. Analysis of 236 World War I/II (WWI/II) era pairs of relatives identified up to seven genetic transmissions between WWII soldiers and their living relatives, and nine for WWI. Previous Y-STR meta-analyses were published approximately 10 years ago when rapidly mutating markers were relatively new. This paper reports a contemporary literature review and meta-analysis of 35 studies (which includes 23 studies not previously used in meta-analysis) and 23 commonly used Y-STR's mutation rates to inform the inclusion of additional loci to UWC-A's DNA identification strategy. Meta-analysis found mutation data for a given Y-STR locus could be pooled between studies and that the mutation rates were significantly different between some loci (at P<0.05). Based on this meta-analysis, we have identified two additional markers from PowerPlex? Y23 for potential inclusion in UWC-A's identification strategy. Further avenues for potential experimental exploration are discussed.

Postmortem interval may be estimated based on the age of insect evidence collected on a death scene. Reference data that are used in such estimation frequently comprise thermal summation constant (i.e. k), which is equal to the insect age upon completion of immature development expressed in accumulated degree-days or degree-hours (ADD or ADH). Essentially, k is a central point of an insect group and it may poorly represent insect evidence that is near the limits of variation for the group. Accordingly, it was postulated to calibrate k for particular insect evidence and insect size and sex were found to be useful for this purpose in some of the species. However, the calibration is only possible by using the model that correlates k with insect size. Since very few such models were published, this lack of data limits the calibration of k in forensic casework. In this article, we develop a formula that is useful for the calibration of k without the use of “k versus size” model (and related datasets). The formula uses k from the general thermal summation model for a species (with its standard error), size range for the species (retrieved from entomology literature), and size measurements for particular insect evidence. The calibration of k with the formula was validated using the Creophilus maxillosus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) and Necrodes littoralis (Coleoptera: Silphidae) datasets. It was particularly useful while analyzing unusually small and large insects, in case of which the formula reduced the inaccuracy of k from the general model on average by ～25 ADD in C. maxillosus and ～40 ADD in N. littoralis. We discuss the limitations and prospects of the calibration protocol that employs the formula.

In October 2022, the Centre for Ethics of Yenepoya University hosted a national workshop entitled: “Respect for human dignity of the unidentified dead from mass disasters and other violence: strategies for the ethical management of biological samples and personal data”. The aim was to explore and share experience and ethical considerations regarding the management and identification of human remains in the event of disasters, with the purpose to arrive at a general consensus about what constitutes the ethical foundation of the management of unidentified human remains in forensic practice and, in particular, contextualizing this in India. The main ethical consideration that emerged was tracing the missing and identifying the dead are crucial to maintaining or restoring basic human rights and responsible relief activities. Identification is not only an organizational and scientific achievement but, regardless of circumstances, also necessarily and always an activity with significant political, epistemic, and philosophical relevance and consequence. In India, it could be important to consider newlegal provisions for the management of human samples so that this would provide a starting point for the treatment of human remains managed for forensic purposes with uniformity in the country. Another important step in which governments should take part regards the involvement and education of the general public to develop their interest in this important goal. In the field of forensic anthropology, artificial intelligence can support, through the use of algorithms, the decision-making process that leads to the identification of the victim or its remains. Furthermore, they can be used to extract new knowledge from huge databases and shorten identification through computer automation of data binding activities. Applying artificial intelligence tools in forensic sciences to collect new information from massive datasets to enhance knowledge, and reduce human subjectivity and errors, provides a greater scientific basis that could improve the strength of the evidence and support the admissibility of expert evidence. In light of the general lack of national/international guidance about ethical oversight for identification and care of human remains, the fact that regulations are frequently not adequate to govern ethical aspects, we hope that an internationally recognized body should develop such guidance in collaboration with relevant organizations.

This study aimed to investigate the genetic polymorphisms and population characteristics of Chinese Mongolian group from northwest China (NCM) through a self-developed panel including 43 autosomal insertion/deletion (A-InDel) polymorphism genetic markers. Herein, 288 unrelated healthy individuals from the NCM group were employed to obtain the genetic data of 43 A-InDels through multiplex PCR amplification and InDel genotyping using capillary electrophoresis platform. In addition, multiplex population genetic analyses were performed between the NCM group and 27 reference populations. There were no deviations at 43 loci from Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium in the NCM group. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) values ranged from 0.312 8 to 0.559 2, and the combined power of discrimination (CPD) and cumulative probability of exclusion (CPE) values in the NCM group were 0.999 999 999 999 999 998 77 and 0.999 814, respectively. The forensic parameter values indicated that this panel was polymorphic and informative in the NCM group and could be used as an effective tool for forensic personal identification. Furthermore, the results of pairwise genetic distances, principal component analysis, multidimensional scaling analysis, phylogenetic tree construction, and admixture analysis among the NCM group and 27 reference populations revealed that there were closer genetic relationships between the NCM group and East Asian populations, especially Chinese Hui group (CHH) from the northwest China, which is consistent with the geographical location. These present findings contributed to the ongoing genetic explorations and insights into the genetic architecture of the NCM group.

A bibliometric analysis was performed to explore the current research status and development trends for missing persons globally and in East Asia and to identify research hotspots and frontiers relating to this topic. A search was conducted to identify relevant literature on missing persons using the Web of Science Core Collection database for the period 2000–2021. Subsequently, a knowledge map was constructed using CiteSpace software to perform a visual analysis of the distribution of authors and institutions, journals, and national/regional distribution; citation frequency; high-frequency keywords; and emerging research hotspots. The results showed firstly that discussions on missing persons and related topics in East Asia are held at the regional scale. There is a paucity of research on this topic, which has been conducted on a limited scale, lacks depth and possibly innovation, and entails limited discussion in this region. Secondly, there is a lack of social science research on missing persons and related topics worldwide. Thirdly, relevant research in East Asia should continue to preserve its own characteristics, effectively addressing current issues and enabling more people to participate in social science-oriented discussions focusing on the topic of missing persons. This approach provides a promising direction for pursuing the sustainable development of the topic of missing persons.