Forensic Science International[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Corrigendum to "Toward better AFIS practice and process in the forensic fingerprint environment" [Forensic Sci. Int.: Synergy 7 (2023) 100336].
Gibb C, Riemen J
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Jun · PMID 42164253 · Full text
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100336.].
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100336.].
Ultra-early post-mortem interval (PMI) estimation based on longitudinal plasma protein dynamics in humans: A pilot study.
Sacco MA, Malara N, Presta I … +4 more , Turturiello R, Garofalo E, Bruni A, Aquila I
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42161104 · Publisher ↗
Accurate estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI) during the earliest phase after death remains one of the most problematic tasks in forensic pathology. Traditional tanatological methods show limited reliability with...
Accurate estimation of the post-mortem interval (PMI) during the earliest phase after death remains one of the most problematic tasks in forensic pathology. Traditional tanatological methods show limited reliability within the first hours after death due to marked inter-individual variability and strong dependence on environmental and physiological factors. Increasing attention has therefore been directed toward molecular approaches capable of capturing the biological processes occurring immediately after death. In this context, blood represents a promising but still insufficiently explored matrix for ultra-early PMI estimation. A prospective longitudinal pilot study was conducted on ten adult patients who died from natural causes at Intensive Care Unit of Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro under controlled conditions. Peripheral venous blood samples were collected from upper limb veins (primarily antecubital veins) using standard sterile techniques at precisely defined post-mortem time points ranging from death certification to 120 min after death. Plasma concentrations of twelve candidate proteins involved in apoptosis, mitochondrial metabolism, cellular stress response, cytoskeletal integrity and tissue injury were quantified using sandwich ELISA assays. Longitudinal data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models, complemented by non-parametric correlation analyses and exploratory multivariate approaches. Several biomarkers exhibited reproducible and statistically significant time-dependent plasma concentration changes within the first two hours after death. Caspase-9 and pyruvate dehydrogenase E1 showed early peaks followed by progressive declines, consistent with rapid apoptotic activation and metabolic collapse. Structural proteins such as β-actin and myosin indicated concordant kinetic patterns, while Hsp70 displayed an early decrease. Cardiac injury markers showed more complex temporal dynamics, whereas LDH and Bcl-2 did not show consistent associations with post-mortem time. Combined proteomic profiles allowed exploratory discrimination between ultra-early and early PMI intervals. These findings provide preliminary original human evidence supporting the forensic potential of plasma-based multiparametric biomarker approaches for ultra-early PMI estimation and suggest that molecular data may meaningfully complement traditional methods during the most challenging post-mortem phase, although further large-scale studies are required to confirm these preliminary results.
Are printed fingermarks realistic enough to be implemented in fingermark visualisation training and proficiency testing?
Thily T, Bonnaz B, Bécue A … +1 more , Steiner R
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42161103 · Publisher ↗
In recent years, artificial fingermarks have emerged as a promising solution to improve control over fingermark quality and to mitigate the inherent variability introduced by human donors. This is particularly relevant i...
In recent years, artificial fingermarks have emerged as a promising solution to improve control over fingermark quality and to mitigate the inherent variability introduced by human donors. This is particularly relevant in applications such as proficiency testing and training, where standardization and reproducibility are critical. This study explored the use of inkjet printing to produce artificial fingermarks that visually resemble real marks. Using templates derived from actual latent and inked fingermarks, artificial marks were printed on paper, using varying concentrations of an amino acid mixture, and subsequently developed with either 1,2-indanedione/zinc or ninhydrin. To assess realism of the printed fingermarks, six evaluators were asked to classify a randomized set of 174 fingermarks as "real" or "printed" without prior knowledge of their nature. While most fingermarks were correctly identified (i.e., 74% of real and 73% of printed), a significant portion was misclassified or labelled as ambiguous, especially when artificial fingermarks were derived from lower-quality latent mark models, which tended to mislead evaluators. Unrealistic homogeneity, absence of pore detail, and occurrence of printing artifacts were commonly cited by assessors to identify printed marks. However, these indicators were not always reliable, leading to uncertainty and disagreement. The use of automated quality assessment algorithms confirmed that the quality of the printed fingermarks was comparable to the original marks. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of creating high-quality, realistic artificial fingermarks suitable for blind proficiency testing and forensic education, offering improved control and reproducibility compared to natural fingermarks deposited directly by human donors.
Improving accessibility of species identification for wildlife crime prosecution: Expanding WildSEQ for calcified and keratinised materials.
Yugovich O, Cave V, Sturrock S … +1 more , Harbison SA
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Sep · PMID 42161004 · Publisher ↗
The growing need for simplified and accessible species identification methods is critical for supporting the prosecution of illegal wildlife trafficking. This requires the development of approaches suitable for implement...
The growing need for simplified and accessible species identification methods is critical for supporting the prosecution of illegal wildlife trafficking. This requires the development of approaches suitable for implementation across both well-resourced and resource-limited jurisdictions. Here, we expand a previously developed targeted quantitative PCR (qPCR) and nanopore sequencing workflow (WildSEQ) to additional taxa including rhinoceros, hippopotamus, walrus, and water buffalo. Taxon-specific qPCR assays were developed to screen samples for multiple suspected species and this was combined with confirmatory sequencing for species identification. Assay performance was evaluated using both synthetic DNA and DNA extracted from casework-type samples, demonstrating high analytical sensitivity, with most assays detecting as little as 1 copy of target DNA. Across all samples, 90% were successfully detected by both qPCR and sequencing. Importantly, sequencing increased overall detection success rates to 95% by enabling species identification in samples that failed to meet qPCR calling criteria. Reliable species identification was achieved within 30 min of sequencing, demonstrating that sequencing time can be significantly reduced without compromising accuracy. The combined qPCR and sequencing approach enabled consistent species-level identification across taxa. Sequencing resolved cases of cross-reactivity and supported interpretation where qPCR amplification patterns alone were insufficient. The expanded WildSEQ workflow offers a rapid and accessible approach for species identification, with potential to support more widespread and routine implementation in wildlife forensic investigations. While further validation is required prior to operational use, this method has strong potential to facilitate increased testing capacity and strengthen enforcement efforts associated with illegal wildlife trade, including in resource-limited settings.
Towards a rapid diagnosis of highly decomposed bodies in PMCT: The QuickRAI.
Pefferkorn E, Provenzano G, Savall F … +3 more , Dedouit F, Telmon N, Saint-Martin P
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42155286 · Publisher ↗
The Radiological Alteration Index (RAI) is a scale developed to quantify the degree of putrefaction in corpses using post-mortem CT scans. It is based on a staging system with four grades (0 to III) corresponding to the...
The Radiological Alteration Index (RAI) is a scale developed to quantify the degree of putrefaction in corpses using post-mortem CT scans. It is based on a staging system with four grades (0 to III) corresponding to the gaseous infiltration of seven tissue sites (heart, liver, subcutaneous pectoral tissue, left innominate vena, third lumbar vertebra, abdominal aorta, and kidney). The total RAI, obtained by summing the scores of each site, ranging from 0 (fresh body) to 100 (highly decomposed body). In the field of forensic anthropology, it has been shown that age-at-death estimation based on bone density measurements from post-mortem CT scans (PMCT) is not applicable to highly decomposed bodies with a RAI score ≥ 80. In this context, we analysed the RAIs of 200 post-mortem CT scans to identify criteria that would allow for the quicker identification of bodies high putrefied bodies (with a RAI ≥80), without calculating the total score. We developed a decision tree that allows for the determination of a RAI< 80 in 2 steps. Our results showed a significant correlation between a grade III in three specific sites (the kidney, subcutaneous pectoral tissue, and L3 vertebra) and a RAI ≥ 80. Our two-step method involves only examining one site with late-stage putrefaction and another with early-stage putrefaction. The QuickRAI demonstrated performance equivalent to the gold standard (RAI) for identifying highly decomposed bodies (RAI ≥ 80), with almost perfect agreement (Cohen's kappa = 0.98) and excellent diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity 1, specificity 0.96, PPV 0.91, and NPV 1). This observation allows for the quick identification of bodies in which putrefactive alterations affect all tissues, including bone. Then, the QuickRAI could simplify the age estimation process on PMCT and facilitate research efforts in this field.
Reliability of the Schmeling method for bone age estimation using the clavicle: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Ferrari MS, Silva MCD, Pinto PHV … +1 more , Silva RHAD
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42155285 · Publisher ↗
Clavicular ossification is widely used in forensic age estimation, particularly in late adolescence and early adulthood. However, the reliability of the Schmeling method when applied to conventional radiography (CR) rema...
Clavicular ossification is widely used in forensic age estimation, particularly in late adolescence and early adulthood. However, the reliability of the Schmeling method when applied to conventional radiography (CR) remains uncertain. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the applicability of the Schmeling method in CR through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Searches were performed in Embase, LILACS, PubMed/MEDLINE, SciELO, Scopus, and Web of Science. Studies evaluating medial clavicular ossification using the Schmeling method based on CR were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Mean ages were pooled for each ossification stage, while heterogeneity was assessed using Cochran's Q and the I statistic. In addition, outliers were investigated through Baujat plots and sensitivity analyses. A total of nine studies were included, of which five were eligible for meta-analysis. Mean age increased progressively across ossification stages. Nevertheless, substantial heterogeneity was observed in all analyses (I ≥ 79.4%), with particularly high variability in advanced stages. Prediction intervals were wide, indicating considerable differences between studies. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses showed that heterogeneity persisted in later stages even after the removal of influential cases. Although the Schmeling method applied to CR reflects general patterns of skeletal maturation, its reliability is limited by substantial inter-study heterogeneity. Therefore, it should not be used in isolation for forensic age estimation. Greater methodological standardization and more consistent reporting in future studies are required to improve its applicability in forensic practice.
A triplex RPA-LFA assay for the simultaneous detection of forensically important necrophagous insects in complex DNA mixtures.
Yang F, Tang X, Wen D … +6 more , Ye C, Wang H, Zhang X, Shang Y, Zhang C, Guo Y
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Sep · PMID 42143433 · Publisher ↗
Accurate species identification of necrophagous insects is crucial in forensic investigations. To overcome the limitations of complex morphological identification-especially for larval stages-and time-consuming DNA seque...
Accurate species identification of necrophagous insects is crucial in forensic investigations. To overcome the limitations of complex morphological identification-especially for larval stages-and time-consuming DNA sequencing methods, we developed a triplex recombinase polymerase amplification combined with a lateral flow assay (RPA-LFA). This assay targets three common forensically important insects: Chrysomya megacephala, Lucilia sericata, and Sarcophaga peregrina. We comprehensively evaluated the specificity, sensitivity, and mixed DNA detection capability of the assay. The results demonstrated extremely high specificity; the specific test lines (T-lines), indicated by different positions, accurately differentiated the target species without cross-reactivity with four other common necrophagous insects. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis revealed low limits of detection, ranging from 62 pg to 250 pg. Additionally, the assay accurately identified the target species within complex mixed DNA samples. In conclusion, the developed triplex RPA-LFA system enables rapid and visual species identification of forensic insects, providing an efficient and reliable novel tool for forensic field investigations.
Non-parametric simulation of DNA mixture profiles from one-person trace profiles.
Budrikas K, Slooten K
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Sep · PMID 42140029 · Publisher ↗
Evidential test data of genotyping softwares must clearly carry the characteristics of real-life evidential trace profiles. Ensuring that simulated data, which is used in research and validation, is similar and behaves s...
Evidential test data of genotyping softwares must clearly carry the characteristics of real-life evidential trace profiles. Ensuring that simulated data, which is used in research and validation, is similar and behaves similarly to real-life DNA mixture profiles, is important for making sure that the software is reliable and trustworthy when assessing strength of evidence. In present day, mixtures for such purposes are typically generated in vitro (laboratory-created mixtures) or in silico (peak heights are sampled from a model). Both of these simulation methods have their drawbacks, as simulating in vitro can be expensive and is heavily dependent on the availability of physical contributors, and simulating in silico relies on a specific pre-decided statistical or machine learning model which approximates the real-life mixture generating process. In this paper, we examine a mixture simulation approach, which is a hybrid of these two strategies. To simulate mixture profiles, we use one-person trace profiles, which can be modified to be originating from any person with a known genotype, and paste them together. This approach makes it very easy to create mixture profiles from any set of contributors, including related donors, while maintaining the variability of the used profiles. To illustrate, we replicate 2-4-person trace profiles from PROVEDIt and compare them to the mixtures they were replicated for. The results show that the simulated mixtures are very similar and behave very similarly to the mixtures from PROVEDIt when compared by likelihood ratio distributions and various estimated parameters obtained from DNAStatistX, such as expected peak height, coefficient of variation, etc. To investigate the difference with a fully in silico approach, we also compare the non-parametrically replicated mixtures to mixtures simulated with EuroForMix and highlight the differences between the two approaches.
Letter to the Editor-Regarding "Evaluating bias in forensic evidence: From expert analysis to AI-based decision tools".
Jaiswal A, Sinnarkar V, Sharma DB
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42134045 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Initial trail selection in mantrailing dogs under double-blind field conditions: a statistical evaluation of scent discrimination performance.
Volmary V
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Jun · PMID 42124892 · Full text
This study examined, under environmentally realistic yet strictly controlled field conditions, whether mantrailing dogs can reliably discriminate the individual human scent of a target person at the point of initial trai...
This study examined, under environmentally realistic yet strictly controlled field conditions, whether mantrailing dogs can reliably discriminate the individual human scent of a target person at the point of initial trail selection. A total of 70 operationally deployed dogs with heterogeneous training backgrounds participated in a randomised, double-blind field study comprising single-trail and scent-discrimination scenarios under standardised start conditions. Both positive and negative scent setups were included. Across all test conditions, directional decision success rates were consistent with chance expectation. All 95% confidence intervals fully overlapped with the chance range predicted by the corresponding binomial model for the respective task. Neither training level, organisational background, breed, age, nor recorded environmental parameters showed a measurable influence on the probability of correct trail selection. Repeated testing did not lead to performance stabilisation; success rates remained within chance expectations across all test rounds. Qualitative behavioural observations indicated frequent reliance on non-olfactory cues, including socially or contextually influenced search decisions, consistent with the presence of condition bias. Teams that appeared successful in individual trials did not demonstrate reproducible discrimination performance above chance upon retesting. Under controlled field conditions, mantrailing dogs did not show a reproducible above-chance ability to discriminate individual human scents during initial trail selection. These findings indicate that observed training or operational successes cannot be assumed to reflect a validated individual-scent discrimination capability and underline the need for rigorously controlled, reproducible study designs when evaluating mantrailing performance in applied contexts.
Key operational considerations for biogeographical ancestry prediction capabilities.
Poulsen F, Griffiths L, Haupt L … +3 more , Hitchcock C, Wright K, Daniel R
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42114174 · Publisher ↗
Biogeographical ancestry (BGA) prediction is a valuable Forensic DNA Intelligence (FDI) tool used to provide investigators with additional information about the donor of biological evidence. FDI is particularly useful in...
Biogeographical ancestry (BGA) prediction is a valuable Forensic DNA Intelligence (FDI) tool used to provide investigators with additional information about the donor of biological evidence. FDI is particularly useful in cases where routine DNA analysis has not led to an identification. Over the last two decades, substantial research effort has been directed towards the development of new panels of ancestry informative markers and analysis tools for BGA prediction. These efforts have supported the successful application of BGA prediction in casework across several international jurisdictions. This paper identifies critical components of operational BGA prediction methods to highlight considerations for method development, optimisation, validation and associated interpretation and to identify areas where further research is needed to enhance capabilities.
Integrin-focal adhesion-cytoskeleton signaling axis variations and genetic susceptibility to SCD-CAD.
Cai M, He Y, Meng H … +2 more , Luo B, Gao Y
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42114173 · Publisher ↗
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a leading cause of global mortality, with coronary artery disease (CAD) being the primary etiology. Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and proliferation, regulated by actin cytoske...
Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a leading cause of global mortality, with coronary artery disease (CAD) being the primary etiology. Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and proliferation, regulated by actin cytoskeletal dynamics, are pivotal to CAD pathogenesis. The integrin-focal adhesion-cytoskeleton signaling axis modulates these processes; however, its genetic contribution to SCD-CAD remains poorly understood. In this case-control study of a southern Chinese Han population (239 SCD-CAD cases; 594 healthy controls), we investigated 10 insertion-deletion (indel) polymorphisms across eight key genes within this axis. Using multiplex fluorescent PCR and capillary electrophoresis (CE), followed by logistic regression and haplotype analyses, we identified three protective variants: rs10599004 (OR = 0.78, p = 0.018), rs143263543 (OR = 0.70, p = 0.024), and rs58213835 (OR = 0.80, p = 0.046). Additionally, a significant risk haplotype was identified in BCAR1 (ins-rs149617239-ins-rs58213835, p = 0.007). Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis further supported the causal roles of genetically predicted BCAR1, CRK, and DOCK1 expression in cardiovascular risk. These findings underscore the involvement of this signaling axis in SCD-CAD susceptibility and suggest these genetic markers as potential tools for cardiovascular risk assessment as well as forensic molecular autopsy. Further validation through large-scale cohort studies and functional assays is essential to fully elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Nothing new under the sun: The NIST primer on "Probability and Likelihood Ratios" gives a misleading negative portrayal of the likelihood-ratio framework.
Morrison GS
Forensic Sci Int Synerg · 2026 Jun · PMID 42111115 · Full text
In March 2025, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published a series of primers designed to provide judges and attorneys with a neutral source of information on foundational forensic-science princi...
In March 2025, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published a series of primers designed to provide judges and attorneys with a neutral source of information on foundational forensic-science principles. Unfortunately, the primer on "Probability and Likelihood Ratios" gives a misleading negative portrayal of the likelihood-ratio framework. This perspectives paper refutes that misleading portrayal.
Carrion insect succession and beyond: Insect diversity and temporal dynamics in a Monte desert region of Argentina. Part I.
Cortez-Vega A, Aballay FH, Díaz Nieto LM … +1 more , Perotti MA
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42107890 · Publisher ↗
The knowledge of carrion insect diversity and succession patterns is fundamental to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI). However, environments like deserts, arid habitats, still lag behind. To tackle this problem, we...
The knowledge of carrion insect diversity and succession patterns is fundamental to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI). However, environments like deserts, arid habitats, still lag behind. To tackle this problem, we carried out a study in Médanos Grandes, San Juan, Monte region of Argentina in 2021 (spring). We quantified and compared the diversity of carrion insects collected on pig carcasses and evaluated the temporal dynamics of carrion insect succession through decomposition stages. Nine carcasses were individually placed within metal cages and sampled daily (carcasses weighing 60-120 kg, with the exception of one specimen that weighed 40 kg). A total of 81,084 individuals from Diptera, Coleoptera and Hymenoptera (Formicidae), belonging to 33 families and 106 species were collected. Carcass 2 (40 kg) showed the lowest species richness and the highest diversity. Differences in carrion insect community were explained by decomposition stages (PERMANOVA; R² = 0.44, F = 7.17, p = 0.001), while diversity patterns were explained by carcass weight. Succession was characterized by dominance of native species such as Cochliomyia macellaria, Compsomyiops fulvicrura and Euspilotus lacordairei, and the cosmopolitan Dermestes maculatus. Solenopsis spp. dominated across all decomposition stages and injured one carcass. Five Coleoptera families are recorded for the first for Argentina in association with decomposition. The findings directly contribute to forensic practice for PMI estimation in arid environments of Argentina.
Post-mortem sepsis diagnosis through vitreous humour biomarkers: A retrospective forensic cohort study.
Montanari E, Montana A, Alessandrini F … +3 more , Sabbatinelli J, Sbriscia M, Busardò FP
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42105704 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Sepsis remains a challenging post-mortem diagnosis due to the nonspecificity of autopsy findings. This study evaluates five sepsis biomarkers (urea, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, lactic...
BACKGROUND: Sepsis remains a challenging post-mortem diagnosis due to the nonspecificity of autopsy findings. This study evaluates five sepsis biomarkers (urea, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, lactic acid, and glucose) detected in vitreous humour. METHODS: In this retrospective study, 127 vitreous humour samples were analysed. Septic deaths were defined by clinical, radiological, and autopsy evidence, serving as reference standard for case/control group identification. Concentrations of urea, hs-CRP, PCT, lactic acid, and glucose were measured using ELISA and compared between septic/non-septic groups. Marker stability was tested across five post-mortem interval groups. A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted to contextualise the findings within the existing forensic evidence on sepsis biomarkers. RESULTS: Urea and hs-CRP levels were significantly higher in septic cases (p < 0.001). hs-CRP demonstrated superior discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.729) and specificity (88.4%) compared to urea (AUC = 0.686), which showed higher sensitivity (85.7%) in ROC analyses. Combined analysis yielded an AUC of 0.781. All biomarkers except glucose and lactic acid remained stable during post-mortem up to 187 h. CONCLUSIONS: Vitreous humour represents a promising matrix for post-mortem sepsis diagnosis. Urea and hs-CRP in vitreous humour demonstrated both discriminatory ability and post-mortem stability, making them valuable forensic tools, particularly when conventional matrices are unavailable. However, as a proof-of-concept study conducted in a selected forensic cohort with documented post-mortem intervals, these findings require validation in broader forensic scenarios. The demonstrated stability of urea, hs-CRP and PCT up to 187 h suggests potential applicability when the exact post-mortem interval is unknown.
Can DNA withstand the test of time? Exploring degradation across storage conditions.
Sguazzi G, Alladio E, Cisana S … +7 more , Garofano L, Garofano P, Linarello P, Omedei M, Salvaderi L, Gino S, Procopio N
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Jun · PMID 42097062 · Publisher ↗
The integrity of DNA extracts is a critical factor in forensic genetics, particularly when DNA represents the sole source of evidentiary value in criminal investigations. Although technologies such as mini-STRs have impr...
The integrity of DNA extracts is a critical factor in forensic genetics, particularly when DNA represents the sole source of evidentiary value in criminal investigations. Although technologies such as mini-STRs have improved the amplification of low-quality samples, DNA degradation remains a significant limitation, often resulting from environmental exposure and handling conditions. Heat, light, humidity, microbial contamination, and inadequate storage infrastructure may compromise DNA quality and limit its suitability for downstream analyses. While best practice guidelines recommend low-temperature storage, operational constraints, equipment failures, and inconsistent protocols frequently result in DNA extracts being stored under suboptimal conditions, including room temperature. The present study systematically investigates the long-term preservation of DNA extracts stored under non-ideal and fluctuating temperature conditions, including simulated interruptions to the cold chain. DNA extracts from buccal swabs from two individuals, and their mixture in a 1:15 ratio, were monitored over extended storage periods at -20 °C, + 4 °C, and + 22 °C, as well as under uncontrolled temperature conditions, to assess changes in DNA concentration, degradation indices, and performance in downstream analyses. Selected samples also underwent next-generation sequencing (NGS) after 600 days of storage at different temperatures and conditions to evaluate data quality, including ancestry and phenotype inference. The objectives are to: (a) define optimal preservation conditions for different sample types; (b) evaluate the impact of DNA degradation on STR and NGS results; (c) identify the limitations of NGS in the analysis of degraded DNA; (d) develop evidence-based recommendations for the storage and management of forensic DNA extracts. Results showed that DNA extracts are stable over extended periods also in suboptimal storage conditions, supporting the feasibility of long-term preservation and subsequent re-analysis of extracts in cold-cases, or of samples obtained in emergency non-ideal situations. Evaporation of extracts stored at room temperature affects DNA concentration, but does not compromise DNA integrity or downstream genetic analyses. Interruptions in the cold chain did not result in an immediate collapse of DNA integrity; however, prolonged exposure to the new storage temperature was found to gradually influence DNA preservation. For NGS analyses, DNA quantity, rather than degradation per se, represents the primary limiting factor for successful SNP profiling. Finally, phenotypic and biogeographic ancestry predictions are robust across storage conditions. The expected outcomes include enhancing forensic laboratory practices, improving the reliability of genetic evidence in both current and cold cases, and contributing to the development of updated procedural and legal guidelines within the field.
High-level data fusion using majority voting for the classification of spray paint spectroscopic data.
Carpenter M, Wen Z, Curran JM … +1 more , Buzzini P
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42096743 · Publisher ↗
A high-level data fusion approach for classifying spray paint samples from five major U.S. manufacturers, each represented by five color groups (black, blue, red, silver/gray, and white), was investigated. Spectral data...
A high-level data fusion approach for classifying spray paint samples from five major U.S. manufacturers, each represented by five color groups (black, blue, red, silver/gray, and white), was investigated. Spectral data were collected using four analytical techniques: Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy with laser excitation at 532 nm and 785 nm, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), and UV-Vis microspectrophotometry (MSP). Their combined use and discriminating ability were evaluated. Each dataset was independently modeled using five supervised machine learning classifiers: Naïve Bayes, k-nearest neighbors (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), random forests, and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost). The intermediate predictions from each classifier were integrated using the majority voting mechanism to yield a final class assignment, forming a high-level data fusion scheme. The proposed approach consistently outperformed individual instruments, achieving near-perfect classification accuracy across several color blocks, particularly for red and blue paints. Among classifiers, generally, Random Forest and Naïve Bayes provided the most stable performance, while SVM with a linear kernel and XGBoost showed lower accuracy. The findings confirm that fusing complementary spectral information improves discriminative ability, reduces redundancy, and creates a computationally efficient, reproducible framework for objective evaluation of source-level questions arising from forensic paint examinations. Overall, the developed model mirrored the process followed by forensic paint examiners in recognizing relevant spectral features from the various techniques. This approach offers a promising pathway toward integrating multimodal spectral data within probabilistic or likelihood ratio-based frameworks following comparative examinations of paint.
Who packed the drugs? Improved DNA recovery and its impact on findings given activity-level propositions.
Faria S, Gill P, Ribeiro AC … +2 more , Pina-Martins F, Fonneløp AE
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Jun · PMID 42092207 · Publisher ↗
The interpretation of forensic DNA findings given activity-level propositions depends on the processes governing DNA transfer, persistence, and recovery, as well as on the laboratory methods used to recover DNA. This stu...
The interpretation of forensic DNA findings given activity-level propositions depends on the processes governing DNA transfer, persistence, and recovery, as well as on the laboratory methods used to recover DNA. This study investigated the effects of transfer type, substrate characteristics, and DNA extraction strategy on DNA yield, STR profiling performance, and resulting likelihood ratios given activity-level propositions. Direct and indirect transfer experiments were performed using personal bags (backpacks and purses) and zip-lock bags. Three analytical approaches were compared: Chelex extraction, a co-extraction protocol combining the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit and mirVana™ miRNA Isolation Kit, and Direct PCR. Consistent with established transfer principles, direct transfer produced substantially higher DNA quantities than indirect transfer across all methods. The proportion of DNA transferred from bags to zip-lock bags was slightly influenced by bag type and inner surface characteristics. Extraction approach noticeably affected DNA yield and profiling success. The co-extraction protocol generated higher DNA quantities and more robust STR profiles compared with Chelex and Direct PCR. Direct PCR provided advantages in minimizing DNA loss but showed limitations related to inhibition and overall profile quality compared with the co-extraction protocol. Differences in extraction efficiency altered the distributions of DNA quantities observed under direct and indirect transfer scenarios, thereby influencing likelihood ratios given activity-level propositions. These findings are consistent with inter-laboratory studies demonstrating that methodological variation can influence the distributions underlying evaluations of DNA findings given activities. Overall, the results demonstrate that laboratory methodology, particularly the DNA extraction approach, plays a critical role not only in DNA recovery and profiling performance but also in the evidential weight assigned when evaluating DNA findings given activity-level propositions.
A forensic market survey of Indonesian lipsticks using ATR-FTIR and chemometrics.
Ikhtiarini AN, Sauzier G, Lewis SW
Forensic Sci Int · 2026 Sep · PMID 42090809 · Publisher ↗
Indonesia's beauty industry has grown rapidly in recent times. One of the most popular beauty products produced and sold is lipstick. Lipstick has gained interest as a form of trace/exchange evidence due to its transfera...
Indonesia's beauty industry has grown rapidly in recent times. One of the most popular beauty products produced and sold is lipstick. Lipstick has gained interest as a form of trace/exchange evidence due to its transferable properties since it can be transferred to surfaces such as drinking cups, clothes, cigarette butts, and straws. This is beneficial for establishing links between individuals, environments, and potential items involved in a criminal investigation. To date however, there has been no published research regarding the forensic characterisation of lipsticks available on the Indonesian market. In this study, 99 lipsticks sold on the Indonesian market were examined and differentiated by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy coupled with chemometrics. Principal component analysis (PCA) and linear discriminant analysis (LDA) resulted in a model with 86.5% accuracy for distinguishing individual lipstick products. This model was then validated using a separate sample set, producing an identification accuracy exceeding 60%. This demonstrates the potential to gather investigative information from an unknown sample, even without any reference sample, in the Indonesian context.
Advancing forensic SNP typing: Insights from an interlaboratory study of the FORCE panel.
Tillmar A, Sturk-Andreaggi K, Staadig A … +35 more , Amory C, Ballard D, Bergseth EF, Børsting C, Cisana S, Coble M, Davenport L, de la Puente M, Butler Gettings K, Gorden EM, Grisedale K, Daniels-Higginbotham J, Houston R, Hughes S, Järving R, Kiesler KM, King JL, Lareu MV, Loreille O, McNevin D, Muenzler MK, Parson W, Pereira V, Phillips C, Ruiz-Ramírez J, Sadam M, Snedeker J, Steffen CR, Stoljarova-Bibb M, Vallone PM, Ward J, Watson J, Xavier C, Kling D, Marshall C
Forensic Sci Int Genet · 2026 Jun · PMID 42085869 · Publisher ↗
This study evaluated the ability to produce FORensic Capture Enrichment (FORCE) genotypes using amplicon-based and capture-based enrichment assays. The FORCE panel is a standardized set of single nucleotide polymorphism...
This study evaluated the ability to produce FORensic Capture Enrichment (FORCE) genotypes using amplicon-based and capture-based enrichment assays. The FORCE panel is a standardized set of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers developed for forensic applications. Twelve DNA samples were prepared and distributed to the laboratories for testing: five control DNA samples, a dilution series ranging from 10 ng to 0.03 ng, two degraded DNA samples with 200 bp and 150 bp average fragment lengths, and one inhibited sample spiked with humic acid. Fifteen laboratories from three different continents participated in this study, choosing from one of four manufacturer-developed enrichment assays to complete the experiments, setting their own parameters for sequencing and other user-defined steps to accommodate their own preferences and expertise. A total of eighteen methods were evaluated, as three laboratories performed two methods. The results showed that all four assays were successful in producing full FORCE SNP genotypes from high quality samples. However, significant differences between and within assays and methods were observed. Read count variability and enrichment type led to significant differences in call rate. Robust SNP recovery was observed across all assays at 0.3 ng DNA input, with an amplicon-based assay producing high SNP call rates at 0.03 ng DNA input. Capture and single primer extension assays produced consistently high SNP call rates from degraded samples with 150-200 bp fragments. Future research to optimize laboratory parameters may reduce the variation in SNP data, so that labs may equitably adopt SNP methods to make use of these powerful forensic markers.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe