A study of 175 female perpetrators of lethal violence in Sweden found that they usually act under high arousal due to reactive motives. Women with severe mental disorders had a slightly longer time thinking about acting violently, but no lengthy preparations were made.
A new study has provided insights into how blood stains cotton fabrics, allowing investigators to gather additional information from forensic evidence. The researchers found that the number and spread of 'fingers' in the bloodstain correlate to the velocity of the blood spatter, with faster-moving blood leaving more prominent tendrils.
Researchers developed an AI model that accurately predicts genetic mutations from routine pathology slides, reducing the need for rapid genetic testing by over 40% in lung adenocarcinoma patients. This innovation streamlines clinical decision-making and accelerates access to targeted therapies.
Researchers from BIOMICs group found significant genetic marker associations with facial areas, including eyes, nose, and forehead. The study aimed to predict external human features using DNA analysis for forensic purposes.
Forensic pathologists play a crucial role in monitoring public health threats, advancing disease research, and providing support to families who have lost loved ones. They operate independently of law enforcement and courts, performing final diagnostic evaluations and providing objective facts for the justice system.
A new study found that amylin administration exacerbates tauopathy by impairing lysosomal mechanisms in a hybrid diabetes model. The research highlights the intricate relationship between diabetes and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that amylin plays a key role in the pancreas-brain axis.
A new mobile app, EAS-ID, is being developed to support victims of interpersonal violence by accurately capturing and documenting bruises. The app, which has successfully completed Phase 1 development, uses AI to detect bruises and provide real-time guidance for clinicians and frontline professionals.
Some precursor plasma cells in patients with MGUS and SMM enter cellular senescence, a dormant state that prevents cancer progression. In contrast, patients who develop bone marrow cancer lack this protective mechanism. The discovery offers hope for early intervention and potential treatments that promote or inhibit senescence.
Researchers will examine forensic methods, aesthetic practices, and issues of restitution in the context of archival investigation. They will explore how to critically engage with archives of colonial and political violence.
The Association for Molecular Pathology publishes guidelines for detecting homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) in cancer. The report includes recommendations for clinical laboratories, addressing technical aspects of genomic instability and HRD analysis.
Wildlife forensic scientists develop a cheap and rapid method to distinguish between elephant and mammoth ivory using stable isotope analysis. The technique can quickly identify suspect pieces of ivory and prevent the illegal trade of elephant ivory.
The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has announced the election results for 2026-2027 leadership positions, including President-Elect Yassmine M.N. Akkari and Secretary-Treasurer Jonathan A. Nowak. The newly elected leaders will drive AMP's mission to advance molecular diagnostics.
Researchers from Northumbria University found that smokers have tell-tale signs of their smoking habits ingrained deep within their teeth. The study revealed evidence of smoking damage in 70% of ex-smokers and 33% of current smokers, compared to just 3% of non-smokers.
A proof-of-concept study shows that chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) can distinguish between tau tangles and various forms of toxic amyloid plaques, two key contributors to Alzheimer's disease pathology. The technology has the potential to deliver therapeutic drugs directly to affected areas of the brain with reduced side effects.
The Nature FIRST project, a £4.9m Horizon Europe-funded initiative, aims to protect endangered species and their habitats across Europe. The project's tools and training will help rangers detect and respond to wildlife crime and other threats using digital technologies and forensic investigation techniques.
Researchers developed carbon dots from green tea extract that exhibit efficient UV emission, metal-free and quasi-zero-dimensional nanostructures. The CDs show aggregation-induced emission and strong inhibition of neuroblastoma cells with promising applications for sterilization, anti-counterfeiting, and forensic analysis.
While digital and artificial intelligence-based pathology (DAIP) offers improved diagnostic accuracy and equity, its implementation is hindered by financial constraints, technical challenges, and legal/ethical concerns. A balanced assessment of the benefits and pitfalls must be conducted before adopting DAIP.
Researchers have developed a model called Difface that can reconstruct 3D facial images from DNA data, improving forensic investigations. The method demonstrates excellent performance in aligning and reconstructing facial images from paired DNA differences.
Researchers at King's College London discovered that the amount and characteristics of bomb residue on a person's hands depend on the individual, not just the type of explosive. The study provides context for forensic experts to better interpret residue in cases involving energetic materials.
Researchers have developed an AI-driven model that can accurately diagnose various subtypes of pediatric sarcoma using only routine pathology images. The model correctly distinguished between nine sarcoma subtypes, demonstrating its potential to provide quick and accurate cancer diagnoses in under-resourced settings.
MSU is developing a computer program called MOSAIC to create holistic biological profiles from skeletal remains, making the investigative process clearer and more efficient. The project aims to leverage relationships between various structures to provide estimates without biasing results by focusing on individual components.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect gunshot residue at crime scenes, offering exciting opportunities for crime scene investigations. The innovative light-emitting lead analysis method is faster, more sensitive, and easier to use than current alternatives.
Texas A&M researchers conducted a forensic investigation of a collapsed embankment slope in Houston, revealing that clayey soils are highly problematic after 10-15 years of use. They recommend using stabilizing agents and perforated pipes to drain water quickly to prevent similar failures.
The database provides access to 36,360 spectra and 27,500 unique chemical entities, facilitating rapid identification of novel psychoactive substances like fentanyl and synthetic cannabinoids. It also includes tools for identifying novel compounds, such as drug classification models and a patented MS Adaptive Search tool.
The Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) has won a court ruling that vacates the FDA's rule on laboratory-developed test procedure regulation. This decision will avoid adding billions of dollars in healthcare costs and protect access to high-quality care for hundreds of millions of Americans.
NJIT's forensics program showcased new research and innovations, including a virtual reality crime scene reconstruction tool, CSIxR, which simulates scenarios to train investigators. The app aims to augment hands-on training, making forensic education more accessible and impactful.
A new ontology for smart city infrastructure threats, cybercrime and digital investigation has been developed to assist digital forensic investigators. The ontology provides a consistent and structured representation of knowledge, allowing for increased efficiency and rapid remediation in future investigations.
USU geoscientists Jordan Jensen and Alexis Ault have developed a new forensic tool to investigate the timing of geochemical oxidation reactions in iron-oxide minerals. The tool uses martite and uranium-thorium-helium analyses to shed light on how and when large gaps in the rock record, known as unconformities, formed.
A new AI-powered tool helps predict traumatic brain injury outcomes based on documented assault scenarios, providing an evidence-based approach to improve investigation accuracy. The model achieved remarkable prediction accuracy for TBI-related injuries, integrating mechanical biophysical data with forensic details.
This special issue of Forensic Sciences Research explores the latest advancements in forensic document examination, including handwriting analysis, ink stain characterization, and collaboration between forensic and criminal intelligence. The contributions showcase a global snapshot of expertise from North America, South America, Europe...
Citizen scientists can join world-renowned microplastic expert Professor Claire Gwinnett on an expedition to monitor microplastic pollution in basking shark feeding sites. The expeditions will use a new app with AI analysis to categorize plastic samples, providing valuable data on microplastic levels and health impacts on sharks.
A study found that DNA methylation clocks used in forensic science and epigenetics are less reliable when applied to non-blood tissues, such as lungs, colon, and kidneys. The researchers suggest that organ-specific epigenetic clocks may be needed to improve biological age prediction.
A study published in iScience reveals that bacterial species are transferred between both individuals during sexual intercourse, and these species can be traced to a partner's unique genital microbiome. This discovery may provide a new tool for identifying perpetrators of sexual assault.
A study found that using comics to explain forensic science in court significantly improved jurors' understanding of the evidence. Participants who watched comics discussed the evidence in greater detail, showed increased confidence in their reasoning, and made more explicit references to scientific concepts.
Experiments found DNA accumulates differently depending on involvement in the process, aiding identification. The study also discovered DNA from capsules can be transferred to ziplock bags, providing a complete profile with minimal contact.
Mayo Clinic's Digital Pathology platform is transforming pathology by leveraging large datasets and AI models for faster, more accurate diagnoses. The partnership with NVIDIA and Aignostics aims to improve patient care and accelerate medical breakthroughs.
A study found that standard medical reports are often difficult for patients to understand, leading to increased worry. In contrast, patient-centered pathology reports provide clear and concise information, improving patient comprehension and reducing anxiety.
Most study participants struggled to understand standard prostate cancer pathology reports, but found patient-centered reports easier to comprehend. PCPRs reduced perceived worry in low-risk conditions compared to traditional reports, suggesting their inclusion could enhance patient care.
Alzheimer's disease is characterized by amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, with genetic predispositions and aging contributing to its development. Early intervention and biomarkers are crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
The Forensic Scientometrics Paris Declaration aims to detect and prevent fake science by flagging problematic papers, actors, and systems. It combines forensic investigation and scientometrics to uphold scientific integrity and public trust.
Researchers analyzed seismic data from southern Israel and found weak ground motions caused by Hamas forces' unusual vehicle movement. This breakthrough highlights the potential of using seismic data to provide early warnings for future terrorist activities.
A WVU research partnership with the DEA aims to improve fast and accurate identification of psychoactive substances like fentanyl. The Expert Algorithm for Substance Identification (EASI) will enable labs using different instruments to share data on chemical profiles, helping to identify drugs like fentanyl.
The Association for Molecular Pathology has published a joint consensus report on SARS-CoV-2 genomic surveillance, outlining key considerations for next-generation sequencing methods. The report provides guidance on pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical aspects of NGS-based surveillance programs.
This special issue focuses on critical identification cases, emphasizing collaborative approaches and utilizing cutting-edge technologies. Research articles explore methods for re-associating fragmented remains, applying radiocarbon dating in forensic case work.
Researchers used ex vivo lentiviral gene therapy to treat MPS IVA in mice, achieving partial correction of bone pathology and complete correction of heart pathology. The study suggests potential for novel therapies to treat patients with MPS IVA.
Researchers from UNH's Forensic Anthropology Lab worked with town officials to investigate and document the remains, which showed signs of hardship and health issues. The reburial ceremony marked a rare opportunity for closure and respect for the individuals buried in hasty unmarked graves.
A new study uses insect evidence from illegally killed rhinos to determine the post-mortem interval. This technique has been used to construct cases against poachers and has led to a rebound in rhino populations over the past 30 years.
A new study by Flinders University experts has developed an AI-powered PCR system that improves the quality of DNA profiling and increases the efficiency of cycling conditions. This technology has the potential to revolutionize fields such as forensic science, clinical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring.
Researchers argue that placental pathology is underutilized clinically and deserves routine obstetric and neonatal care, as well as more research attention.
A new AI tool called SandAI can analyze sand grains to determine their history, including whether they were shaped by wind, water, or glacial movements. This technology has the potential to help with modern-day forensic investigations into illegal sand mining and related issues.
A new study from Aarhus University has developed a method to extract more information from fingerprints, improving forensic analysis. The technique uses chemical imaging and can separate overlapping fingerprints and enhance faint ones.
Researchers developed a fluorescent nanoparticle to visualize latent fingermarks, producing high-quality images and aiding in individual identification. The new method has the potential to be used directly at crime scenes without lab facilities.
A new approach developed by researchers could streamline the forensic analysis pipeline and reduce delays in processing DNA evidence. The technique, using differential digestion with digital microfluidics, simplifies the process of isolating an assailant's DNA from a single sample, reducing manual steps from 13 to five.
A machine-learning tool can effectively and efficiently subtype pathology samples from patients with RA. This may help scientists find ways to improve care for the complex condition by distinguishing between three subtypes of RA. The tool has also yielded new insights into treatment effects in mice, such as reduced cartilage degradation.
A new AI-based digital platform has been developed to analyze tissue sections from lung cancer patients, making diagnosis faster and more accurate. The platform uses algorithms that enable fully automated analysis of digitized tissue samples, allowing for personalized therapy based on molecularly specific genetic changes.
A commercial AI tool was effective in excluding pathology and had lower rates of critical misses on chest X-rays compared to radiologists. The study found that the AI tool could autonomously report more than half of all normal chest X-rays without decreasing standard of care.
Researchers have discovered a method to identify shark species using medical gauze from first-aid kits after bite incidents. This approach can provide accurate and timely information on species, aiding prevention measures and reducing incidents.
The Association for Molecular Pathology has published consensus guidelines for clinical DPYD genotyping assays to improve patient care and standardize testing. The recommendations include a tiered system of variants with well-characterized effects on protein function, gene expression, and minor allele frequency.
A new system for evaluating evidence in craniofacial superimposition uses likelihood ratios to provide quantitative support for forensic experts. The proposed method excels in calibration and discriminating power, offering a tool for integrating and evaluating evidence objectively.
A study of 481 deceased athletes found that most developed parkinsonism due to CTE pathology, not classic Parkinson's disease. Researchers identified a link between contact sport participation and severe brain cell death in the brainstem.