Forensic Science International[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Experimental and numerical study of non-penetrating FMJ ballistic impacts on coupled soft and bone tissue surrogates.
Gómez-Garraza S, Álvarez-Blanco M, Infante-García D … +2 more , Loya JA, Marco M
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349026 · Publisher ↗
This study evaluates the biomechanical response of biofidelic human tissue surrogates, including embedded bone simulants, under non-penetrating ballistic impacts to bridge the gap between current armor certification stan...
This study evaluates the biomechanical response of biofidelic human tissue surrogates, including embedded bone simulants, under non-penetrating ballistic impacts to bridge the gap between current armor certification standards and thoracic injury biomechanics. A combined experimental and numerical approach was implemented, consisting of 14 ballistic impact tests using real ammunition at velocities ranging 209 and 439 m/s. The experimental setup utilized ballistic gelatin with an embedded thoracic cage surrogate to simulate the human thorax, protected by advanced soft body armor. Parallel finite element analyses were performed, employing a validated visco-hyperelastic constitutive model for the gelatin and a damage-based composite model for the ballistic panel. The results demonstrated high fidelity in reproducing the early-stage non-linear dynamics (0-4 ms), quantifying the correlation between projectile kinetic energy, transient cavity depth and morphology, and the peak pressure waves within the soft tissue surrogate. The study further characterizes the transition from elastic deformation to structural failure of the embedded thoracic cage surrogate, identifying critical velocity thresholds for multiple rib fractures. The numerical model not only reproduced the experimental response but also captured the complex energy dissipation mechanisms of the ballistic panel and the subsequent inertial and stress-wave response of the soft tissue. These findings validate the reliability of integrating biofidelic surrogates with advanced finite element modeling to predict transient cavity development, pressure transmission and complex fracture patterns behind armor. Compared with traditional clay-based assessment methods, the proposed framework provides improved insight into both soft tissue deformation and bone fracture risk, offering a reliable basis for the design and optimization of personal protective systems. Ultimately, this study establishes a fundamental precursor for the analysis of increasingly complex anatomical geometries and intricate impact scenarios.
Limitations of inkjet and spot amino acid targets for fingermark reagent research and monitoring - and some observations.
Kent T, Spaleniak A, Farrugia KJ
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349025 · Publisher ↗
The performance of amino acid mixture impregnated paper test targets for monitoring, and potentially accrediting or validating, the effectiveness of ninhydrin and similar fingermark reagent formulations is reported. Rath...
The performance of amino acid mixture impregnated paper test targets for monitoring, and potentially accrediting or validating, the effectiveness of ninhydrin and similar fingermark reagent formulations is reported. Rather than simple visual indicators, optical density measurements have been made of target areas. A 'spot' target method has been introduced as a way of adjusting the amino acid areal concentration; these are shown to behave similarly to inkjet-printed targets used elsewhere. After treatment with ninhydrin, these were scanned for optical density measurement. Amino acid levels in the targets were adjusted for best discrimination between reagent formulations. However, the intensity of reagent reaction and hence colour density, with pure amino acid targets, is shown to be substantially greater than with many actual fingermarks. Known poor formulations have produced target block processed intensities close to those of the extensively researched and considered best formulations. Substantial numbers of two types of commercial test targets, promoted for validation of amino acid fingermark reagents, were incorporated into the later stages of the investigation and have apparently validated every solution tested, even those radically different, or known to be very poor operationally, so they also seem to have no significant discriminatory or 'validation' capability. A small-scale split fingermark trial with ninhydrin and 1,2-indandione/zinc was carried out with full strength and dilute UK formulations, and a BKA formulation. Significant differences in fingermark performance between reagents was observed in these trials, but none of the spot test targets showed easy visual discrimination. The commercial targets again appeared to validate all formulations. The 'commercial test targets' and 'experimental spot targets' evaluated here are hence not capable of clearly validating treatment formulations and protocols for quality control purposes.
Background levels of inorganic gunshot residue like particles on the hands of motorcycle mechanics in Pakistan: Implications for forensic interpretation.
Feras KS, Yaseen M, Mahmood MH
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42349024 · Publisher ↗
In forensic gunshot residue (GSR) analysis, occupational exposure to environmentally derived particles can mimic inorganic GSR (IGSR), increasing the risk of false positive interpretations in firearm related investigatio...
In forensic gunshot residue (GSR) analysis, occupational exposure to environmentally derived particles can mimic inorganic GSR (IGSR), increasing the risk of false positive interpretations in firearm related investigations. While global studies have identified brake dust and workshop materials as sources of IGSR like particles, no systematic background profiling has been conducted in Pakistan, where motorcycle mechanics represent a high exposure group amid prevalent motorcycle associated street crimes. This study provides the first localized examination of hand contamination in this population, using standardized sampling and SEM/EDS analysis with direct comparison to authentic GSR from regionally common ammunitions. The primary objective was to characterize background levels of IGSR like particles on motorcycle mechanics in Lahore Division and evaluate their potential to confound forensic GSR evidence. No characteristic GSR lead bearing particles (Pb/Sb/Ba) or lead-free particles such as Gd/Ti/Zn and Ga/Cu/Sn were detected in any of the 100 motorcycle mechanic samples sets. Consistent and commonly associated particles were present in all samples, dominated by Ba/Ca/Si and Ba/Al combinations in low to moderate counts (4-127) and (3-163) particles per sample stub respectively, with dominantly irregular morphology contrasted with the high-temperature morphology typically associated with authentic GSR, including rounded edges, spheroidal or spherical forms, and/or degassing holes, despite comparable size ranges. These results demonstrate that motorcycle mechanics routinely carry GSR like particles mostly from both the lead bearing and lead free consistent GSR category. from occupational sources but lack the definitive markers of firearm discharge. The findings emphasize the necessity of incorporating occupational context and morphological assessment in GSR interpretation, supporting the development of regional background databases to improve evidentiary reliability and reduce misinterpretation risks in forensic casework.
Analysis of low-input and degraded forensic DNA trace samples with NGS using the MiSeq FGx platform.
Larnane A, Fund C, Letexier M … +2 more , Gerber Z, Deleuze JF
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Jun · PMID 42341580 · Publisher ↗
This study addresses the challenge of profiling low-input and degraded DNA traces in forensic science, by evaluating the ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep Kit on the MiSeq FGx platform. The standard microsatellite-based genot...
This study addresses the challenge of profiling low-input and degraded DNA traces in forensic science, by evaluating the ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep Kit on the MiSeq FGx platform. The standard microsatellite-based genotyping technology used for profiling forensic traces is generally inadequate for dealing with these types of samples. On the other hand, next-generation sequencing (NGS) offers the possibility of sequencing short polymorphism-containing fragments that are consistent with degraded DNA. In this study, we optimized the PCR amplification and library normalization steps using the ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep Kit composed of STR and SNP markers contained in PCR fragments ranging from 63 to 481 bp long, with an average length of 140 bp, in order to increase the probability of detection in degraded DNA. We evaluated these optimizations using both references and casework samples. Our results indicate that degraded traces can be profiled by NGS using either a combination of STR and SNP markers or a SNP-only signature, with a sufficient number of validated markers to support reliable identification potential. This work provides valuable insights into the optimization of NGS protocols and supports the use of the ForenSeq™ DNA Signature Prep Kit in complex forensic investigations. However, the introduction of a hybrid or SNP-only signature will require scientific and legal adjustments before it can be used routinely, or it will remain reserved for very special cases.
Interpol review of forensic image and video analysis, 2022-2025.
Geradts Z, van Lierop S, Kombrink M
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42339396 · Full text
The field of forensic image and video analysis is undergoing a transformation, driven by technological innovation and an increasing demand for scientific proof. This review provides an analysis of the state-of-the-art fr...
The field of forensic image and video analysis is undergoing a transformation, driven by technological innovation and an increasing demand for scientific proof. This review provides an analysis of the state-of-the-art from 2022 to the present, the progress and challenges across key domains. The amount of digital media has made images and videos central to legal investigations. The same technologies that create this evidence also enable sophisticated manipulation, posing a significant threat to its integrity. Deep learning has emerged as a dominant paradigm, offering powerful new capabilities but also introducing challenges related to transparency and validation. This paper examines the maturation of core forensic practices, including the critical re-evaluation of Photo Response Non-Uniformity (PRNU) for source camera identification in an era of computational photography, and the evolution of image enhancement and authentication techniques. We explore the rapid advancements in content analysis, particularly in deep learning-based methods for detecting digital forgery and steganography, highlighting the ongoing "arms race" between manipulation and detection. In biometric and scene-based analysis, we describe the shift in facial comparison towards a probabilistic likelihood ratio framework for expressing evidential value and review the current state of forensic gait analysis and photogrammetry, including its application in vehicle speed estimation. Throughout this review, we emphasize the central tension between the pace of technological advancement and the crucial, ongoing efforts by international bodies such as ENFSI, SWGDE, FISWG, and Interpol to establish the robust standards, best practices, and validation frameworks necessary for ensuring the admissibility and reliability of digital evidence in court. The paper concludes by key trends and outlining future directions, focusing on the needs for explainability, robustness, and continued international collaboration to bridge the gap between innovation and forensically sound application.
Interpol review of forensic fire debris analysis and fire investigation, 2023-2025.
Evans M
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42339395 · Full text
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Move Fast and Justice: A framework for responsible technology adoption.
Chu SP
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42339394 · Full text
Forensic science is undergoing rapid technological expansion driven by advances in artificial intelligence, automation, and data-intensive investigative tools. While these innovations offer significant promise, their ado...
Forensic science is undergoing rapid technological expansion driven by advances in artificial intelligence, automation, and data-intensive investigative tools. While these innovations offer significant promise, their adoption has frequently outpaced the development of governance structures necessary to ensure scientific validity, procedural justice, and public trust-a pattern familiar in technology adoption within the criminal legal system. This paper applies the Gartner Hype Cycle as an analytic framework to examine the risks associated with implementing forensic science technologies before appropriate safeguards are in place. It argues that minimizing harm, promoting integrity, and sustaining public confidence require proactive adoption practices that integrate scientific rigor, justice-centered considerations, and mechanisms for institutional repair.
Interpol review of forensic toxicology, 2023-2025.
Ip SC, Chan CW, Chan CW … +10 more , Chu A, Chung WW, Hui JW, Ku KW, Lee WS, Lo KM, Poon KC, Wong WC, Cheung BK, Cheng JY
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42339393 · Full text
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Low-level urinary cannabinoid findings after controlled administration of hemp seed products in Türkiye: Interpretive value of Δ8-/Δ9-THC-COOH patterns.
Soyturk H, Goren IE, Atasoy Aydin A … +1 more , Daglioglu N
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335722 · Publisher ↗
Hemp seed products may contain trace cannabinoids that complicate the forensic interpretation of urinary cannabinoid findings. This study investigated time-dependent urinary cannabinoid findings following controlled admi...
Hemp seed products may contain trace cannabinoids that complicate the forensic interpretation of urinary cannabinoid findings. This study investigated time-dependent urinary cannabinoid findings following controlled administration of hemp seed products in Türkiye, with particular attention to the interpretive relevance of Δ8-/Δ9-derived carboxylated metabolite patterns. A validated isomer-specific liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method was used to quantify cannabinoids and related metabolites in urine. Twenty-two hemp seed oils and twelve hemp seed products were analyzed, and 15 healthy volunteers (n = 5 per arm) underwent controlled administration of oral hemp oil, dermal hemp oil, or hemp seed ingestion, with serial urine sampling over 10 days. Repeated oral hemp oil administration produced the strongest and most sustained urinary signal, with total THC-COOH detectable in 72 of 77 samples (93.5%) and a plateau-like pattern after day 6. In this arm, the highest median total THC-COOH concentration was 3.91 ng/mL and the maximum observed concentration was 4.52 ng/mL. Hemp seed ingestion produced recurrent but lower-level findings, whereas dermal application yielded the weakest and least consistent urinary detections. In the oral oil arm, urinary findings were characterized by predominance of Δ8-THC-COOH over Δ9-THC-COOH, with Δ8-THC-COOH/Δ9-THC-COOH ratios ranging from 1.92 to 8.83. A one-sided 99% upper prediction limit (UPL) for total THC-COOH in the oral oil arm was estimated at 9.35 ng/mL. These findings provide controlled human data supporting cautious interpretation of low-level urinary cannabinoid results after hemp seed product administration and highlight the interpretive value of isomer-specific Δ8-/Δ9-THC-COOH patterns in forensic toxicology.
Representations and perception of forensic intelligence among Belgian forensic practitioners.
Ballèvre N, Ribaux O, Renard B
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335721 · Publisher ↗
Forensic intelligence (ForInt) has gained formal recognition within the scientific community, yet the operational requirements for its implementation remain understudied. Although shared experiences and theoretical contr...
Forensic intelligence (ForInt) has gained formal recognition within the scientific community, yet the operational requirements for its implementation remain understudied. Although shared experiences and theoretical contributions have established a foundational framework, empirical research on the role of forensic scientists in ForInt is still lacking. To address this gap, we conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with forensic practitioners from Belgium's main government forensic provider to explore their representations and perceptions of ForInt and its potential implementation. A directed content analysis followed by a thematic analysis revealed several key themes that shape practitioner's view. First, this study underscores the varied conceptions of ForInt across practitioners. Second, it emphasises that trust in a ForInt system depends on maintaining control over forensic data interpretation. Third, it shows a dedicated mechanism is needed to ensure that disseminated ForInt is effectively used and recognised as such, as the current case-focused approach within the justice system limits the use of ForInt products. Successful implementation therefore requires institutional trust, a robust operational framework, and confidence in stakeholders' ability to grasp the scope and significance of forensic interpretations. Ultimately, the main challenge lies in reconciling a proactive intelligence-led policing model with existing justice-based operational frameworks of the laboratory. These findings suggest that successful ForInt implementation requires at least significant organisational and cultural adaptations to achieve both acceptance and operational effectiveness.
Persistence of organic and inorganic gunshot residues on hands, forearms, and face of shooters 24 h after a high number of discharges.
Redouté Minzière V, Tilborg T, Gassner AL … +3 more , Gallidabino MD, Roux C, Weyermann C
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42335720 · Publisher ↗
Understanding the persistence of both organic and inorganic gunshot residues (OGSR and IGSR) is essential for the accurate interpretation of specimens collected hours after firearm discharges. This study investigates the...
Understanding the persistence of both organic and inorganic gunshot residues (OGSR and IGSR) is essential for the accurate interpretation of specimens collected hours after firearm discharges. This study investigates the persistence of OGSR and IGSR on the shooter's hands, forearms, face and on work desks, 24 h after a high number of discharges. GSR were collected using carbon stubs from three individuals with high GSR prevalence risk (frequent firearm users) and two individuals with infrequent exposure to firearms. Organic compounds were first extracted and then analysed using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Subsequently, IGSR particles were detected on the same stub using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS). The results of this study highlighted that both types of GSR could still be detected 24 h after 23-100 discharges, despite activities such as showering, changing clothes, sleeping and working. Higher numbers of discharges (i.e., 100) produced more GSR, while fewer discharges (i.e., 30-50) generally resulted in lower amounts of residue being detected. The experiment with heavy metal free ammunition resulted in significant amounts of OGSR and no PbSbBa particles, showing the added value of OGSR analysis for such ammunition types. GSR could also be detected in the offices of the shooters on objects such as their desk, mouse or keyboard. The results of this study should be considered when persons of interest have discharged a firearm several times in the 24 h before collection.
Considering unintentional exposure when testing for cocaine use via oral fluid testing.
Palamar JJ, Krotulski AJ, Abukahok N … +4 more , Acosta P, Walton SE, Stang B, Cleland CM
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42330734 · Full text
Research is needed to establish optimal cutoffs to determine cocaine use via oral fluid testing while considering the possibility of unintentional exposure. We compared detection of cocaine and its metabolites to self-re...
Research is needed to establish optimal cutoffs to determine cocaine use via oral fluid testing while considering the possibility of unintentional exposure. We compared detection of cocaine and its metabolites to self-reported use while considering other drug use to determine optimal cutoffs to determine intentional use. In this study, 1819 adults entering randomly selected nightclubs were surveyed about cocaine and other drug use and had their oral fluid analyzed using liquid chromatography quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We compared self-reported use to detected exposure. 13.6% of participants reported past 24-hour cocaine use, 43.7% tested positive for cocaine exposure (≥1 ng/mL), and 11.8% tested positive for at least one metabolite. 28.6% either tested positive for or reported past 24-hour use of other drugs, primarily ketamine. Among those testing positive for cocaine exposure (n = 794), only 29.1% reported past 24-hour use. Among positive cases, the optimal cocaine concentration cut-point for predicting self-report was ≥ 26 ng/mL. When focusing on the full sample and a subsample with data on past 48-hour reported use, optimal cut-points were ≥ 6 ng/mL and ≥ 5 ng/mL, respectively. However, detection of metabolites was the strongest predictor of self-reported use. Using self-report as the gold standard, metabolite detection most accurately classified reported use, over and above detection of cocaine or other drugs; however, relying solely on detection of metabolites or higher cocaine concentration thresholds often led to under-detection. In conclusion, relying on detection of metabolites or higher concentrations most accurately detects intentional use, but these lack sensitivity to detect a portion of use.
Letter to the Editor commenting on "Incorrect formula for calculation of likelihood ratios used in forensic anthropology: Comments on Scott & Rogers (2026)'', by Morrison.
Scott S, Rogers TL, Steadman DW … +2 more , Adams BJ, Konigsberg LW
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Jun · PMID 42330733 · Publisher ↗
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INTERPOL Review of Forensic Biology and DNA, 2023-2025.
Butler JM
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42326394 · Full text
As a part of the 21st INTERPOL International Forensic Science Managers Symposium, this work explores the latest scientific developments, methodologies, and trends in forensic biology and forensic DNA analysis of biologic...
As a part of the 21st INTERPOL International Forensic Science Managers Symposium, this work explores the latest scientific developments, methodologies, and trends in forensic biology and forensic DNA analysis of biological evidence during the years 2023 to 2025 and builds upon previous INTERPOL DNA reviews. Almost 2000 references covering the three-year time range of this review were located via various online searches including use of Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed. The scientific articles, which originated from more than 300 different journals, were curated in a Zotero reference manager database (see Supplemental File 1) and sorted into 15 topics and 116 sub-topics (see Supplemental File 2) under sections focused on advances in current practices (Section 3) and emerging technologies and research studies (Section 4). This triennial review describes 24 books or major reports, 20 special issues of journals on aspects of forensic DNA, 292 articles from 2 International Society for Forensic Genetics (ISFG) conference proceedings, and 70 guidance documents from 17 different organizations to assist in quality DNA testing. Publications were evaluated and sorted into 10 topics around advances in current practices and 5 topics related to emerging technologies and research studies. These topics, which are further sub-divided in a compiled list (see Supplemental File 2) included rapid DNA analysis; law enforcement DNA databases and ethics; forensic investigative genetic genealogy (FIGG); forensic biology and body fluid identification; DNA processing; DNA typing with short tandem repeat (STR) markers; DNA interpretation at the source or sub-source level of the hierarchy of propositions along with mixture interpretation using probabilistic genotyping software (PGS); DNA interpretation at the activity level along with aspects of DNA transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery (TPPR); statistics and population genetic data; human identification and kinship analysis; next-generation sequencing (NGS) and technology developments; forensic DNA phenotyping (FDP) and methylation; lineage markers (Y-chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, X-chromosome analyses); new markers and approaches (microhaplotypes, insertion/deletion markers, proteomics, microbiome, single-cell analysis, using environmental DNA, and biomarkers for diagnosis of sudden death, molecular autopsy, or post-mortem interval); and non-human DNA testing and wildlife forensics. Artificial intelligence (AI) tools for summarizing references were explored and utilized in performing this review of over 1900 publications.
Interpol review of fingermark composition and visualization 2022-2025.
Bécue A
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42326393 · Full text
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Toward a European standard for elimination DNA databases: Policy recommendations for harmonized minimum requirements.
Nogel M
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42326392 · Full text
Elimination DNA databases (EDBs) hold reference profiles from personnel who may inadvertently transfer DNA to evidentiary items (e.g., laboratory staff and crime-scene practitioners). When properly governed and audited,...
Elimination DNA databases (EDBs) hold reference profiles from personnel who may inadvertently transfer DNA to evidentiary items (e.g., laboratory staff and crime-scene practitioners). When properly governed and audited, EDBs provide a critical quality assurance layer: they enable timely detection of contamination, prevent false investigative leads, and protect the integrity of cross-border database exchange. Yet practice across Europe remains heterogeneous. This narrative review synthesizes the scientific, legal, and quality assurance landscape for EDBs in European forensic DNA practice. We review variations in national approaches, examine interfaces with ISO/IEC 17025, analyze applicable EU data-protection law - arguing that EDBs structured as standing quality assurance systems fall under the GDPR - and consider cross-border implications under Prüm II. We also address proportional scope, retention, and the risks of scope creep or secondary use. Building on European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) guidance, accreditation practice, and empirical contamination studies, we propose policy recommendations for harmonized minimum requirements: laboratory information management system (LIMS)-enforced pre-submission EDB checks (before national database submissions and Prüm queries); strict organizational and technical separation from criminal/intelligence databases; role-based inclusion that extends beyond laboratory staff to high-risk scene and support roles; risk-proportionate retention with automatic deletion on exit; auditable incident response and management review; and transparency measures consistent with staff rights. We outline feasible legal and governance pathways (Prüm II practical guidance, updated professional standards, accreditation checklists, and - medium-term - EU-level legislation) and identify research priorities, including measuring EDB effectiveness, improving contamination-prevention practices across crime-scene and laboratory workflows, and developing privacy-preserving EDB architectures.
Interpol review of detection of AI-generated image and video deepfakes, 2022-2025.
van Lierop S, Najdenkoska I, Worring M … +1 more , Geradts Z
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42326391 · Full text
In recent years, there has been tremendous progress in the generation of deepfakes and synthetic media. In this systematic review, we will, from a forensic perspective, discuss the latest developments in AI generation of...
In recent years, there has been tremendous progress in the generation of deepfakes and synthetic media. In this systematic review, we will, from a forensic perspective, discuss the latest developments in AI generation of deepfake images and videos and methods for detecting them. We analyzed more than 400 studies published between 2022 and 2025, specifically addressing the generation and detection of AI-generated deepfakes as opposed to manipulation of existing media. We provide an overview of the developments in various generative architectures such as GANs, diffusion models, and autoregressive models, highlighting progress in visual fidelity, user control, content consistency, and computational efficiency. In addition, we outline the most common designs of detection methods, looking at various types of features that are used for detection. We conclude that innovations are mainly centered on addressing the challenges of generalizability to unseen generators and robustness against common perturbations and adversarial attacks. However, the inconsistent use of the evaluation datasets makes it difficult to compare the methods. Our review has identified several directions for future research, such as making methods more directly applicable to forensic practice by incorporating forensically relevant benchmark datasets, paying more attention to explainability, and embedding detection methods in an evidence evaluation framework.
Interpol review of forensic science management, 2022-2025.
McAndrew WP, Speaker PJ
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42326390 · Full text
This paper reviews and summarizes the forensic management literature from mid-2022 to mid-2025, covering laboratory strategic, tactical, and operational decision-making, benchmarking, quality assurance, human resource ma...
This paper reviews and summarizes the forensic management literature from mid-2022 to mid-2025, covering laboratory strategic, tactical, and operational decision-making, benchmarking, quality assurance, human resource management, and other managerial impacts from technological developments.
Quality assessment of the forensic surveillance system: A data-quality monitoring system for substance-abuse detection in unnatural deaths in Thailand.
Traisathit P, Worasuwannarak W, Aramrattana A … +7 more , Angkurawaranon C, Jiraporncharoen W, Buawangpong N, Intui K, Rankantha A, Thanuta Y, Srikummoon P
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42317774 · Full text
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the reliability and identify sources of discrepancies to strengthen data governance and system integrity of the national forensic toxicology surveillance database from postmortem exa...
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess the reliability and identify sources of discrepancies to strengthen data governance and system integrity of the national forensic toxicology surveillance database from postmortem examinations called by the Forensic Drug Abuse Monitoring Network (FDAMN), Thailand. METHODS: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted across 25 forensic institutions participating in the FDAMN. 10% (1441 cases) of postmortem toxicology records during January 1 to December 31, 2021, were randomly selected for independent re-entering records for verification during fiscal year 2023. Subsequently, 638,100 paired data points from the original and re-entered datasets were compared. Data consistency was analyzed using descriptive statistics, and a qualitative review was performed to identify underlying causes of discrepancies. RESULTS: A total of 1418 matched records (98.4%) were successfully verified. All of the data fields were identical between the datasets in 98.5% of cases, with 1.5% showing discrepancies. Administrative variables exhibited 96.3% consistency, while demographic and toxicological data exceeded 94% consistency. Circumstance variables, such as the date and time of death, showed the highest discrepancy rate (6.0%). Most inconsistencies arose from administrative coding variations, typographical errors, and/or legitimate data updates following confirmatory analyses. CONCLUSIONS: Thailand's national forensic toxicology surveillance database demonstrates high data consistency, thereby affirming the robustness of the FDAMN system. Remaining discrepancies are primarily procedural and can be mitigated through standardization of coding, automation of data-validation checks, and feedback-driven quality improvement. These findings may provide a practical framework for strengthening forensic drug surveillance systems and data-quality assurance in other countries facing evolving illicit drug threats.
Transformation of public administration in the sphere of forensic science activity in Ukraine under martial law.
Martynenko N
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Dec · PMID 42317773 · Full text
The current shortcomings in the public administration of forensic science activities in Ukraine have been analyzed. The work of state specialized institutions in wartime conditions has been examined. The technical and po...
The current shortcomings in the public administration of forensic science activities in Ukraine have been analyzed. The work of state specialized institutions in wartime conditions has been examined. The technical and political significance of the digitalization of forensic science activities is clarified. Attention is paid to the problems of instability in the management and staffing of forensic institutions. The issue of standardization and accreditation of forensic institutions is examined. The importance of expanding international cooperation is emphasized. The proposed reform initiatives cover both the organizational and managerial aspects as well as the technological aspects of the development of the forensic science system, forming a comprehensive model for its adaptation to contemporary security, social, and technological challenges. Ensuring impartial development of norms and their equal application to all participants in the expert services market is possible only if there is a clear delineation of the functionality: formation of public policy, regulation and control, as well as management of forensic institutions. Such a division of powers minimizes the risks of unequal conditions for different subjects. Effective mechanisms for public administration of the field of forensic science expertise in conditions of martial law should be contextually relevant and capable of implementing changes without resistance.
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