Researchers at the University of Huddersfield have developed a solution to distinguish between the DNA of identical twins using high-resolution melt curve analysis (HRMA). The technique exploits differences in DNA methylation patterns caused by environmental factors, enabling forensic investigators to accurately identify guilty parties.
The Association for Molecular Pathology compiles current research on liquid biopsy approaches for cancer diagnostics. The review supports the notion that these minimally invasive tests allow for earlier diagnosis, faster and more targeted treatment, reduced costs, and increased quality of life.
The BMC protocol provides a set of predetermined guidelines for processing and preserving forensic evidence in surgical specimens after a terrorist attack. Key findings include the importance of identifying a team to handle all surgical specimens, obtaining labeled photographs and x-rays, and storing forensic evidence securely.
A new mass spectrometry method developed by IUPUI chemist Nicholas Manicke can rapidly detect drugs and poisons in blood samples. The method, known as paper spray mass spectrometry, has potential use in various fields such as biomedical research, clinical testing, and forensic science.
A 10-year study on tiger DNA has provided new insights into the genetics of tigers, allowing for more effective conservation strategies. The research found that extinct subspecies are nearly identical to surviving ones, providing powerful tools for forensic identification and management.
A study of police officer killings found that most perpetrators were males using firearms, and only a minority likely suffered from mental illness at the time. The researchers examined factors leading up to and contributing to these murders, providing insights into societal influences on policing.
Historians re-examined the concept of ecological succession and found that forensic examiners recognized its predictability in carrion-arthropod succession by the late 1800s. This discovery predates plant ecology's widely cited examples from the early 1900s, highlighting multiple independent discovery.
Researchers found that in muscular dystrophy, abdominal muscles take over more of the respiratory function as diaphragm muscle damage progresses. This study highlights the importance of supporting cardiopulmonary function in neuromuscular disease.
Scientists have developed a new method to analyze hair samples at crime scenes, using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) to detect minute amounts of illicit drugs and explosives. This technique can quickly confirm whether hair is dyed and what brand of colorant was used.
Researchers have discovered that three of King Richard III's injuries had the potential to cause death quickly, including two to the skull and one to the pelvis. The forensic analysis used modern techniques such as CT scans and micro-CT imaging to analyze trauma to the skeleton and determine which wounds might have proved fatal.
Researchers at NIST have demonstrated a technique for mapping deformation in metals that can recover destroyed serial numbers. The method uses electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) to read imprints on steel, revealing crystal damage and improving forensic analysis.
The study found that civilians offer numerous benefits to police departments, including cost savings, specialized skills, and improved community relations. However, it also raises concerns about job security, officer discretion, and operational disruption.
Forensic entomologists have discovered that scorpionflies and noctuid caterpillars interact with human cadavers, offering new insights into decomposition ecology. These findings may assist in determining postmortem intervals and interpreting postmortem artefacts.
A new analysis has identified over 58,000 long non-coding RNA genes that may play a role in cancer. The study also found that one lncRNA, SChLAP1, is a potential biomarker for aggressive prostate cancer.
The university's forensic geneticist will use the grant to develop and improve 'DNA intelligence' tools that can predict eye, hair, or skin color from genetic material. This technology will aid investigators in identifying unknown suspects and solving cold cases.
A new use of an existing antibody cocktail has been confirmed to provide key information about tumor recurrence in head and neck cancer patients. The ProExC cocktail allows pathologists to differentiate between true pre-neoplasia and reactive biopsies, enabling surgeons to make informed decisions about therapeutic interventions.
A study of over 3,000 women in Michigan found that nearly 40% did not receive alternative treatment before their hysterectomy. Nearly two in five women under 40 had unsupportive pathology, suggesting that treatment guidelines are often not followed.
A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology suggests that HLA class I hyperexpression on pancreatic islet cells may not be a crucial step in developing type 1 diabetes. The study found discrepancies between results from immunohistochemistry and quantitative molecular techniques.
Duke University scientists developed new forensic tracers to identify coal ash contamination in water and distinguish it from other sources. The tracers provide additional fingerprints that give regulators a more accurate tool to trace coal ash effluents to their source.
Researchers found that pubic hairs harbor distinct microbial communities, which can distinguish between males, females, and individual people. These findings suggest that microbial 'signatures' from pubic hairs could be used as a new way to link offenders to victims in sexual assault cases.
Research by UPV/EHU and Basque Institute of Forensic Medicine finds cocaine use linked to higher risk of sudden cardiovascular death. The study, published in Addiction journal, analyzed 437 cases of sudden death and found a significant association between recent cocaine consumption and increased risk of heart attack.
A pathology specialist, Dr. Glenn Palomaki, contributes to the debate on breast cancer gene screening, citing concerns about population characteristics and feasibility. He suggests pilot trials for high-risk populations like Ashkenazi Jewish women before considering widespread screening.
A new study using forensic DNA tests successfully identified the species of venomous snakes that bit people 100% of the time. The test has the potential to improve care for patients affected by deadly snakebites in countries where this is a major health risk.
Researchers will develop algorithmic methods and models to aid in complex DNA mixture interpretation, including identifying multiple contributors and determining match strength. The goal is to achieve accurate and reliable methods for interpreting forensic data from physical evidence.
Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are associated with dendritic spine loss, suggesting shared pathophysiological features. Individuals with these disorders have reduced average spine density and number of spines per dendrite compared to control group individuals.
A Swiss research team has revealed that nanoparticles are attracted to fingermarks through chemical bonding, rather than electrostatically. This discovery could lead to more accurate and sensitive techniques for detecting previously undetectable fingermarks, improving forensic science.
Scientists used CT scans and micro-CT imaging to analyze the King's skeletal remains, revealing three injuries that could have caused death quickly. The most likely causes of his death are two skull injuries from a sword or staff weapon, and a penetrating injury from an edged weapon.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins have identified a highly sensitive means of analyzing tiny amounts of DNA. The new analytical method compares favorably with existing techniques, enabling the detection of small amounts of DNA in samples.
A study reports the occurrence of a synanthropic derived form of Chrysomya megacephala from Tamil Nadu, India, providing morphological and molecular characterization. This finding is significant for forensic investigations as it aids in determining post-mortem intervals.
Research by Dr. Hyung-Seok Kim reveals that early expressions of hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha and vascular endothelial growth factor increase the neuronal plasticity of activated endogenous NSCs after focal cerebral ischemia. Additionally, neural precursor cells can be recruited from nearby areas to promote neurofunctional recovery.
Knocking down α-synuclein in a methamphetamine-induced model of Parkinson's disease reduced depression manifestations, increased striatal dopamine and tyrosine hydroxylase levels, and decreased reactive oxygen species. This suggests that α-synuclein may exacerbate oxidative stress and apoptosis in dopaminergic neurons.
Researchers analyze fossil assemblages from Ohio buhrstone to determine its provenance, revealing characteristics that distinguish it from French buhrstone. The study sheds light on the use of non-destructive techniques in studying ancient artifacts, with potential applications for understanding the origins of other tools.
A team of researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has developed new cell culture and mouse models to test immunotherapy for Parkinson's disease. By targeting distorted alpha-synuclein proteins, they prevented pathology development and reversed some effects of existing disease.
Researchers found that telehealth consultations improve the quality of forensic examinations for sexual abuse, providing more thorough and nuanced exams. The study showed that clinicians with access to expert UC Davis nurses provided significantly better examination findings, overall assessments, completeness, and diagnostic accuracy.
The clinical validation study showed ProMark correctly identified low-risk disease with a sensitivity of 90% or better. The test provided additional independent prediction relative to standard risk-stratification systems, improving personalized treatment decisions for prostate cancer patients.
The challenges in cancer molecular testing require effective communication between oncologists and pathologists. Close communication, systems approaches, and new institutional protocols can help ensure efficient testing and optimal patient outcomes.
Researchers investigated the connection between small-vessel disease and Alzheimer's disease pathology, revealing a possible correlation with cognitive impairment. The study found that small vessel disease may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's-like pathology in the brain.
A researcher is working on procedures to identify female menstrual blood and vaginal material at crime scenes, while also identifying male fluids. This study aims to differentiate between seminal fluid and semen to prove the occurrence of sexual intercourse in cases of false accusation or prosecution.
A University of Alberta team developed a computer program to analyze chemical data from arson scenes, reducing the need for human analysis and speeding up investigations. The program can classify debris in seconds, helping investigators pinpoint the cause of fires more quickly.
The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) released a report recommending a molecular diagnostics curriculum for medical laboratory scientists, balancing accreditation, certification, and job market needs. The recommendations aim to prepare future scientists for high-complexity testing and support the growth of genomic technology.
Researchers have discovered that the bicolored shrew acts as a 'pathogen reservoir' for the Borna virus, transmitting it to horses. The virus is not directly contagious and requires an intermediate host to spread, highlighting the importance of keeping shrews away from stables to prevent transmission.
Dr. Carmit Katz's study found that drawing during questioning significantly improves the accuracy and detail of child abuse testimonies. Children empowered to draw reported regaining control and feeling hopeful, with richer descriptions provided compared to those not offered this opportunity.
A research team developed a force sensing skin that can identify potential bruising locations on a child surrogate to differentiate between accidental trauma and child abuse. The system provides a roadmap documenting a child's exposure to impact, critical for forensic analysis.
Researchers found that higher cerebrospinal fluid alpha-synuclein levels predict faster cognitive loss in Parkinson's disease, but not motor symptoms. The study, published in the American Journal of Pathology, offers new insights into PD pathology and potential management strategies.
A study of US filicide arrests over 32 years found that men are as likely to kill infants as women, and stepchildren are not more likely than biological children to die at their parents' hands. The data also revealed that fathers were more likely to be the alleged murderers of adult children.
The new open access journal Pathogenesis will publish peer-reviewed original research and high-quality reviews in various areas of pathology. It aims to provide a platform for researchers and clinicians to share their work quickly and widely, promoting excellence in pathology.
A study from North Carolina State University finds that CT scan data can be incorporated into a forensic database to determine the ancestry and sex of unidentified remains. This may also have clinical applications for craniofacial surgeons.
A new test identified a urinary marker that differentiates street heroin users from those who have ingested morphine present in poppy seeds. This discovery addresses the 'poppy seed defense' challenge in workplace drug testing and forensic toxicology.
The Association for Molecular Pathology proposes a new term, Laboratory Developed Procedure (LDPs), to describe service-oriented tests. LDPs rely on laboratory professionals for design, consultation, and interpretive reporting in clinical care.
A new study from North Carolina State University has raised doubts about the effectiveness of using skull shape for positive identifications. Researchers found that only 47% of participants accurately matched antemortem and postmortem X-rays, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on cranial vault outlines.
The lab, a joint initiative between EcoHealth Alliance and Sabah Wildlife Department, will analyze wildlife health and genetic research, as well as assist in combating the spread of diseases. The facility is part of the USAID-PREDICT Project, aiming to strengthen public health work and protect the region's economic health.
A new study published in Human Genetics found that 180 DNA variants predict tall stature in Europeans with an accuracy of 0.75.
Researchers at McMaster University have identified a protein called Xin that serves as a biomarker for muscle damage. Xin is only detectable after muscle injury and shows a strong correlation with the degree of damage, regardless of the cause.
Dartmouth researcher Scott Williams found that a person can have multiple DNA mutations in different parts of their body, resulting in varying genotypes. These discoveries challenge traditional views on human uniqueness and may impact forensic analysis, paternity testing, and genetic screening.
Researchers developed a new forensic technique to identify textile materials based on surface chemistry, bypassing visual characteristics. The method uses X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) with argon-ion cluster beam technology to analyze surface layers, enabling the identification of fabrics and distinguishing treated fibers.
A team of forensic experts found no genetic link between the mummified head and three Bourbon descendants of King Henry IV. The analysis ruled out a maternal connection as well, making it highly unlikely that the head belonged to the French king.
A new study published in the American Journal of Pathology found that resveratrol actually worsened MS-like neuropathology and inflammation in mice. Resveratrol did not show anti-inflammatory or neuroprotective effects, contradicting previous claims about its benefits.
Researchers have discovered anti-tau antibodies that can prevent the accumulation of toxic tau proteins, improving cognitive function and reducing pathology in mouse models. The findings suggest a potential basis for treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
A new CU-Boulder-led study suggests that a microbial clock, tracking bacterial changes after death, could be a powerful tool for estimating time of death. The researchers were able to pinpoint the time of mouse death within four days using high-tech gene sequencing techniques.
Researchers developed a test that can clearly distinguish early liver cancer cells from normal liver cells by giving them a distinctive red-brown hue. The test uses a probe to detect and stain a microRNA called mir-21, which is found in liver cancer but not healthy liver cells.