Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-06-19DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100423
Abdullah Al-Shammari , Ahmed Yasser , Reem Al-Thubaiti , Ahmed Refaat
A 31-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department of a regional hospital following a high-speed police pursuit and subsequent arrest. On arrival, he presented in profound hypovolemic shock. Despite intensive resuscitation efforts, he succumbed to his injuries 48 h later. His medical history included chronic substance abuse and multiple gastrointestinal complications. Postmortem examination revealed extensive traumatic injuries, with scattered abrasions and contusions predominantly located in the right inguinal region. Notably, gastrointestinal findings included a near-perforated, balloon-like intestinal ulcer and multiple small, rounded, smooth-edged ulcers, accompanied by significant intestinal hemorrhage extending to the anal orifice. Toxicological analysis identified toxic levels of methamphetamine in both blood and urine. The cause of death was attributed to severe intestinal hemorrhage resulting from the traumatic rupture of methamphetamine-induced ischemic enterocolitis lesions.
{"title":"Fatal methamphetamine-induced ischemic enterocolitis: A case report","authors":"Abdullah Al-Shammari , Ahmed Yasser , Reem Al-Thubaiti , Ahmed Refaat","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100423","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100423","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>A 31-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department of a regional hospital following a high-speed police pursuit and subsequent arrest. On arrival, he presented in profound hypovolemic shock. Despite intensive resuscitation efforts, he succumbed to his injuries 48 h later. His medical history included chronic substance abuse and multiple gastrointestinal complications. Postmortem examination revealed extensive traumatic injuries, with scattered abrasions and contusions predominantly located in the right inguinal region. Notably, gastrointestinal findings included a near-perforated, balloon-like intestinal ulcer and multiple small, rounded, smooth-edged ulcers, accompanied by significant intestinal hemorrhage extending to the anal orifice. Toxicological analysis identified toxic levels of methamphetamine in both blood and urine. The cause of death was attributed to severe intestinal hemorrhage resulting from the traumatic rupture of methamphetamine-induced ischemic enterocolitis lesions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100423"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144322638","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-11-29DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100439
Dan M. Weinthal , Amit Blumberg , Elisha Ziv , Hillel Shuman , Danielle Waingrod , Reouven Berdugo , David Shore , Noam Shomron , Alon Oz
On October 7, 2023, terror organizations launched a large-scale surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the deadliest mass fatality incident in the nation’s history. The assault left 1438 Israelis dead, 255 taken hostage, and over 1600 assailants killed in defensive operations. In the immediate aftermath, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Genomic Center for Casualties Identification rapidly expanded its capacity by integrating rapid DNA technology and implementing refined sample prioritization protocols to accelerate the identification process. This mass fatality incident unfolded under unprecedented circumstances. Thousands of human remains, often fragmented, burned, or intermingled with those of perpetrators, were recovered across multiple sites. Conventional identification methods such as dental or fingerprint analysis were frequently unavailable, leaving DNA profiling the primary method of identification. The extreme scale and severity of the event meant that each case presented unique combination of sample types, often requiring repeated extractions and multiple testing approaches to obtain viable genetic profiles. These challenges, though described here in scientific terms, reflected the reality of a brutal attack that left families anxiously awaiting for closure, and forensic teams working around the clock in conditions rarely seen in civilian laboratories. Our findings indicate that while rapid DNA profiling enabled identifications in under three hours, the key determinant of timely results was precise sample triage and prioritization. We therefore propose a combined approach integrating strategic triage with fast-track DNA profiling to manage complex casualty events effectively. Using this approach, all casualties within our ground operations were identified within 2–3 h. Beyond the technical achievements, this experience underscores the dual mission of forensic science during national crisis: to uphold the highest standard of accuracy and integrity, while performing this work with humanity and respect amidst profound loss. The lessons learned from October 7th, much like those drawn from 9/11 and the long-term work of the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), which investigates mass graves and missing persons from conflicts and disasters, provide valuable guidance for forensic agencies worldwide, offering strategies to strengthen preparedness and resilience for future mass fatality incidents.
{"title":"From battlefield to burial: Complex casualty identification using rapid DNA analysis in 21st century warfare","authors":"Dan M. Weinthal , Amit Blumberg , Elisha Ziv , Hillel Shuman , Danielle Waingrod , Reouven Berdugo , David Shore , Noam Shomron , Alon Oz","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100439","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100439","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>On October 7, 2023, terror organizations launched a large-scale surprise attack on Israel, resulting in the deadliest mass fatality incident in the nation’s history. The assault left 1438 Israelis dead, 255 taken hostage, and over 1600 assailants killed in defensive operations. In the immediate aftermath, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Genomic Center for Casualties Identification rapidly expanded its capacity by integrating rapid DNA technology and implementing refined sample prioritization protocols to accelerate the identification process. This mass fatality incident unfolded under unprecedented circumstances. Thousands of human remains, often fragmented, burned, or intermingled with those of perpetrators, were recovered across multiple sites. Conventional identification methods such as dental or fingerprint analysis were frequently unavailable, leaving DNA profiling the primary method of identification. The extreme scale and severity of the event meant that each case presented unique combination of sample types, often requiring repeated extractions and multiple testing approaches to obtain viable genetic profiles. These challenges, though described here in scientific terms, reflected the reality of a brutal attack that left families anxiously awaiting for closure, and forensic teams working around the clock in conditions rarely seen in civilian laboratories. Our findings indicate that while rapid DNA profiling enabled identifications in under three hours, the key determinant of timely results was precise sample triage and prioritization. We therefore propose a combined approach integrating strategic triage with fast-track DNA profiling to manage complex casualty events effectively. Using this approach, all casualties within our ground operations were identified within 2–3 h. Beyond the technical achievements, this experience underscores the dual mission of forensic science during national crisis: to uphold the highest standard of accuracy and integrity, while performing this work with humanity and respect amidst profound loss. The lessons learned from October 7th, much like those drawn from 9/11 and the long-term work of the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP), which investigates mass graves and missing persons from conflicts and disasters, provide valuable guidance for forensic agencies worldwide, offering strategies to strengthen preparedness and resilience for future mass fatality incidents.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100439"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145690393","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-06DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100426
Marina Doll Sousa , Djiane Nicolas Steidler , Julia Nunes Machado , Paulo Maiorka , Tália Missen Tremori
The combat between animals to serve as a form of human entertainment is an old practice. In Brazil, it is considered a crime due to animal mistreatment. In the present case, a forensic medical veterinary expertise was required to evaluate 50 roosters apprehended on a cockfighting practice located in Itapetininga, Sao Paulo, Brazil. A forensic live animal examination was performed on 49 of the alive roosters analyzing ID, body condition score (on a scale of 1–5), lesions and observations, together with photo-documentation. A rooster died after the capture, in which an animal forensic necropsy was conducted. The most common findings during forensic examination was emaciation due to starvation present in 100 % (49/49) of alive animals, followed by characteristic grooming displayed in 87 % (43/49) and lesions located in face, neck, wings and chest found in 63 % (31/49). Wounds such as face edema and corneal ulcer were analyzed in 26 % (13/49) of the animals with edema and inflammation on limbs which were present in 10 % (4/49). Regarding the obit, it revealed severe emaciation, intense pododermatitis on the left limb, ingluvies full of non-digested dietary content with a foreign body, thickened ventricle muscle wall, evident opacity on left air sac and presence of frothy liquid in left pulmonary lobe. These results were used as evidence to prove animal mistreatment and abuse occurring in cockfighting practice. The goal of this case report is to collaborate on the production of material and protocols regarding this type of crime.
{"title":"Case report: Medical veterinary expertise on a case of cockfighting in Brazil","authors":"Marina Doll Sousa , Djiane Nicolas Steidler , Julia Nunes Machado , Paulo Maiorka , Tália Missen Tremori","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100426","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100426","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The combat between animals to serve as a form of human entertainment is an old practice. In Brazil, it is considered a crime due to animal mistreatment. In the present case, a forensic medical veterinary expertise was required to evaluate 50 roosters apprehended on a cockfighting practice located in Itapetininga, Sao Paulo, Brazil. A forensic live animal examination was performed on 49 of the alive roosters analyzing ID, body condition score (on a scale of 1–5), lesions and observations, together with photo-documentation. A rooster died after the capture, in which an animal forensic necropsy was conducted. The most common findings during forensic examination was emaciation due to starvation present in 100 % (49/49) of alive animals, followed by characteristic grooming displayed in 87 % (43/49) and lesions located in face, neck, wings and chest found in 63 % (31/49). Wounds such as face edema and corneal ulcer were analyzed in 26 % (13/49) of the animals with edema and inflammation on limbs which were present in 10 % (4/49). Regarding the obit, it revealed severe emaciation, intense pododermatitis on the left limb, ingluvies full of non-digested dietary content with a foreign body, thickened ventricle muscle wall, evident opacity on left air sac and presence of frothy liquid in left pulmonary lobe. These results were used as evidence to prove animal mistreatment and abuse occurring in cockfighting practice. The goal of this case report is to collaborate on the production of material and protocols regarding this type of crime.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100426"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145044703","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-10-08DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100431
A. Fort , J. Borges , F. Chiron , F. Paysant , T. Willeman , M. Peoc’h , V. Scolan
In France, firearm suicide is the second most common method among men, after hanging. Complex suicides, which involve multiple methods, are rare but significant. Forensic investigations are essential for determining the sequence of events and whether methods were used simultaneously or if one followed the failure of another. Ballistic suicides are frequently associated with hanging. This case report details a rare unplanned complex suicide involving a cranioencephalic ballistic injury followed by fall from height in a 56-year-old man. He was discovered deceased beneath his building. Autopsy revealed a non-fatal and non-incapacitating ballistic injury, confirmed by X-ray, in contrast to the severe traumatic injuries sustained from the fall, which were lethal. This specific combination of methods is rarely reported in literature. Analyzing the sequence and vitality of each injury is essential to rule out potential criminal acts.
{"title":"Hidden ballistic injury and fall from height: An unusual complex suicide and review of the literature","authors":"A. Fort , J. Borges , F. Chiron , F. Paysant , T. Willeman , M. Peoc’h , V. Scolan","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100431","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100431","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In France, firearm suicide is the second most common method among men, after hanging. Complex suicides, which involve multiple methods, are rare but significant. Forensic investigations are essential for determining the sequence of events and whether methods were used simultaneously or if one followed the failure of another. Ballistic suicides are frequently associated with hanging. This case report details a rare unplanned complex suicide involving a cranioencephalic ballistic injury followed by fall from height in a 56-year-old man. He was discovered deceased beneath his building. Autopsy revealed a non-fatal and non-incapacitating ballistic injury, confirmed by X-ray, in contrast to the severe traumatic injuries sustained from the fall, which were lethal. This specific combination of methods is rarely reported in literature. Analyzing the sequence and vitality of each injury is essential to rule out potential criminal acts.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100431"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145362179","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-10-24DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100433
Thais Reyes, Rosneld Rivero, Santa Jiménez, Karla Figueroa, Eileen Riego
Heteropaternal superfecundation (HSF) is a rare reproductive event where two ova from the same menstrual cycle are fertilized by sperm from different men. This phenomenon challenges conventional assumptions in paternity testing, particularly for dizygotic (DZ) twins. This report describes the first two documented cases of HSF in the Dominican Republic, identified from a review of 61 DZ twin pairs undergoing kinship analysis. Genetic analysis using autosomal (aSTR) and Y-chromosome (Y-STR) markers confirmed that in both cases—one involving opposite-sex twins and the other same-sex male twins—the twins shared a mother but had different biological fathers. These findings underscore the critical importance of testing both DZ twins individually in all paternity disputes to prevent erroneous legal and social outcomes. This report serves as a guide for forensic and medical professionals facing similar complex kinship scenarios.
{"title":"First documented cases of heteropaternal superfecundation in dizygotic twins from the Dominican Republic: A case report","authors":"Thais Reyes, Rosneld Rivero, Santa Jiménez, Karla Figueroa, Eileen Riego","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100433","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100433","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Heteropaternal superfecundation (HSF) is a rare reproductive event where two ova from the same menstrual cycle are fertilized by sperm from different men. This phenomenon challenges conventional assumptions in paternity testing, particularly for dizygotic (DZ) twins. This report describes the first two documented cases of HSF in the Dominican Republic, identified from a review of 61 DZ twin pairs undergoing kinship analysis. Genetic analysis using autosomal (aSTR) and Y-chromosome (Y-STR) markers confirmed that in both cases—one involving opposite-sex twins and the other same-sex male twins—the twins shared a mother but had different biological fathers. These findings underscore the critical importance of testing both DZ twins individually in all paternity disputes to prevent erroneous legal and social outcomes. This report serves as a guide for forensic and medical professionals facing similar complex kinship scenarios.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100433"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145474130","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-04DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100427
Hallvard Gjerde, Ragnhild Elén Gjulem Jamt
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant contributing factor to road traffic crashes. Detection rates for alcohol and drugs among drivers in random road traffic have been studied in several countries; this article presents a comprehensive overview of findings in studies conducted from 2010 to 2024. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Google Search, and the International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety Conference Papers database. We also examined reference lists and citation records. We identified 53 studies, of which 25 studies focused exclusively on alcohol. The studies were conducted across 24 countries. Alcohol was the most frequently detected substance, followed by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Detection rates exhibited variability across jurisdictions; alcohol was most commonly observed in studies conducted in North America and in some low- and middle-income countries, whereas THC and cocaine were most frequently detected in studies from North America, Italy, and Spain. Several countries have implemented effective measures that have led to a significant reduction in the incidence of drink-driving. However, despite the introduction of legal thresholds or zero-tolerance policies for drug-impaired driving, the detection of drugs among drivers has increased in certain regions.
{"title":"Alcohol and drug detection rates in road traffic: An international comparison","authors":"Hallvard Gjerde, Ragnhild Elén Gjulem Jamt","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100427","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100427","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a significant contributing factor to road traffic crashes. Detection rates for alcohol and drugs among drivers in random road traffic have been studied in several countries; this article presents a comprehensive overview of findings in studies conducted from 2010 to 2024. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, Google Search, and the International Council on Alcohol, Drugs and Traffic Safety Conference Papers database. We also examined reference lists and citation records. We identified 53 studies, of which 25 studies focused exclusively on alcohol. The studies were conducted across 24 countries. Alcohol was the most frequently detected substance, followed by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Detection rates exhibited variability across jurisdictions; alcohol was most commonly observed in studies conducted in North America and in some low- and middle-income countries, whereas THC and cocaine were most frequently detected in studies from North America, Italy, and Spain. Several countries have implemented effective measures that have led to a significant reduction in the incidence of drink-driving. However, despite the introduction of legal thresholds or zero-tolerance policies for drug-impaired driving, the detection of drugs among drivers has increased in certain regions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100427"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145018965","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-06-06DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100422
Matheus Jhonnata Santos Mota , Alberto Calson Alves Vieira , Lucas Silva Lima , João Victor Melquiades Sátiro , Carlos Mathias de Menezes Neto , Patrízia Lisieux Prado Paixão , Gabriel Pedro Gonçalves Lopes , Lauro Roberto de Azevedo Setton , Carlos Eduardo de Andrade , Richard Halti Cabral
The increasing reliance on machine learning (ML) techniques in forensic anthropology underscores the imperative to enhance the accuracy and objectivity of sex estimation from skeletal remains. Traditional methods often suffer from subjectivity and variability, prompting a shift towards morphometric approaches for improved precision. In this context, this study aims to identify the most accurate cranial measurements for sex estimation and ascertain the minimum number of variables needed to match the performance of a 12-measure model using a neural network. The objective of this study was to determine the most accurate individual cranial measurements for sex estimation and to identify the minimum number of variables required to achieve comparable accuracy to the 12-measure model using a neural network. Data from 241 skulls from the collection of the Center for Studies in Anatomy and Forensic Anthropology at the University of Tiradentes were used in this study. Twelve measurements were performed. The data were divided into a test group (20 %) and a training group (80 %). Machine learning algorithms were developed using the Python language in the Google Colaboratory environment. The combination of three measurements (biporion, head circumference and opisthocranion-glabella) outperformed the reference linear models and the 12-measure model in the neural network. Biporion isolated in a neural network outperformed 12 measures in logistic regression. Our study adds to the literature a high accuracy with only three measures, reducing the workload for the examiner, in a reproducible and reliable way, using neural networks.
{"title":"Enhancing sex determination in forensic anthropology: A comparative analysis of cranial measurements using artificial neural network","authors":"Matheus Jhonnata Santos Mota , Alberto Calson Alves Vieira , Lucas Silva Lima , João Victor Melquiades Sátiro , Carlos Mathias de Menezes Neto , Patrízia Lisieux Prado Paixão , Gabriel Pedro Gonçalves Lopes , Lauro Roberto de Azevedo Setton , Carlos Eduardo de Andrade , Richard Halti Cabral","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100422","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100422","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The increasing reliance on machine learning (ML) techniques in forensic anthropology underscores the imperative to enhance the accuracy and objectivity of sex estimation from skeletal remains. Traditional methods often suffer from subjectivity and variability, prompting a shift towards morphometric approaches for improved precision. In this context, this study aims to identify the most accurate cranial measurements for sex estimation and ascertain the minimum number of variables needed to match the performance of a 12-measure model using a neural network. The objective of this study was to determine the most accurate individual cranial measurements for sex estimation and to identify the minimum number of variables required to achieve comparable accuracy to the 12-measure model using a neural network. Data from 241 skulls from the collection of the Center for Studies in Anatomy and Forensic Anthropology at the University of Tiradentes were used in this study. Twelve measurements were performed. The data were divided into a test group (20 %) and a training group (80 %). Machine learning algorithms were developed using the Python language in the Google Colaboratory environment. The combination of three measurements (biporion, head circumference and opisthocranion-glabella) outperformed the reference linear models and the 12-measure model in the neural network. Biporion isolated in a neural network outperformed 12 measures in logistic regression. Our study adds to the literature a high accuracy with only three measures, reducing the workload for the examiner, in a reproducible and reliable way, using neural networks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100422"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144239596","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-10-26DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100432
Adam Bauer , Elva Eir Gretarsdottir , Valthor Asgrimsson , Sigurbergur Karason
Bromazolam is a potent designer benzodiazepine increasingly encountered in forensic and clinical toxicology. Here, a case of non-fatal intoxication involving the ingestion of encapsulated pure bromazolam powder is reported, and, to our knowledge, it resulted in the highest documented bromazolam serum concentration to date. A healthy 20-year-old male was found unresponsive at home and admitted to intensive care. Toxicology confirmed bromazolam as the primary intoxicant, with an initial serum concentration exceeding 5800 ng/mL. The patient required prolonged intubation, and sedation persisted for over ten days despite supportive care and flumazenil administration. Five serum samples collected over 204 h showed declining bromazolam concentrations with an estimated half-life of 31 h. Analytical testing of seized powder at the scene confirmed pure bromazolam content, supporting the conclusion of high-dose exposure. Serum samples were diluted to fit within the method’s linear range, and dilution integrity testing demonstrated accurate bromazolam quantification at these levels. This case underscores the severe toxicological effects of ingesting pure bromazolam, the importance of timely toxicological confirmation in clinical decision-making, and the need for methods to identify novel substances and quantify high-concentration samples.
{"title":"Non-fatal overdose following ingestion of encapsulated pure bromazolam powder: A case report","authors":"Adam Bauer , Elva Eir Gretarsdottir , Valthor Asgrimsson , Sigurbergur Karason","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100432","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100432","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Bromazolam is a potent designer benzodiazepine increasingly encountered in forensic and clinical toxicology. Here, a case of non-fatal intoxication involving the ingestion of encapsulated pure bromazolam powder is reported, and, to our knowledge, it resulted in the highest documented bromazolam serum concentration to date. A healthy 20-year-old male was found unresponsive at home and admitted to intensive care. Toxicology confirmed bromazolam as the primary intoxicant, with an initial serum concentration exceeding 5800 ng/mL. The patient required prolonged intubation, and sedation persisted for over ten days despite supportive care and flumazenil administration. Five serum samples collected over 204 h showed declining bromazolam concentrations with an estimated half-life of 31 h. Analytical testing of seized powder at the scene confirmed pure bromazolam content, supporting the conclusion of high-dose exposure. Serum samples were diluted to fit within the method’s linear range, and dilution integrity testing demonstrated accurate bromazolam quantification at these levels. This case underscores the severe toxicological effects of ingesting pure bromazolam, the importance of timely toxicological confirmation in clinical decision-making, and the need for methods to identify novel substances and quantify high-concentration samples.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100432"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145424337","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-11-19DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100438
Sasitaran Iyavoo
This study presents population data for 27 Y-chromosomal STR (Y-STR) loci and 12 X-chromosomal STR (X-STR) loci from 888 unrelated males representing four populations of the British Isles (English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh). Genotyping was performed using the Yfiler Plus and Investigator Argus X-12 QS kits under ISFG-aligned quality control procedures. All four populations exhibited 100 % haplotype diversity for both marker systems, confirming strong discriminatory capacity. Several rare allelic variants were identified, including deletions, insertions, and a tri-allelic pattern among Y-STRs, as well as insertion events at X-STR loci. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis revealed patterns consistent with the physical arrangement of X-STR loci, with marginally significant LD detected within several linkage groups in the English and Irish populations. Based on these results, haplotype-based analyses were conducted using all 886 valid male profiles across the four linkage groups, showing that LG1 and LG4 exhibited the highest discriminatory capacities. Phylogenetic and multidimensional scaling analyses incorporating global reference datasets revealed clear and interpretable patterns of population structure. Y-STR data positioned the British Isles populations within a north-western European paternal cluster, with Irish and Welsh forming a distinct Celtic subgroup. X-STR results showed a close maternal-line relationship between English and German populations consistent with Anglo-Saxon migrations, and a separate Celtic cluster comprising Irish and Welsh, with the Scottish population showing intermediate affinity. Overall, this study provides a robust and forensically relevant dataset reflecting both paternal and maternal genetic diversity across the British Isles, improving the accuracy of forensic identification and kinship analysis.
{"title":"Population and forensic genetic data of 27 Y-STR and 12 X-STR loci in four British Isles populations","authors":"Sasitaran Iyavoo","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100438","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100438","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study presents population data for 27 Y-chromosomal STR (Y-STR) loci and 12 X-chromosomal STR (X-STR) loci from 888 unrelated males representing four populations of the British Isles (English, Irish, Scottish, and Welsh). Genotyping was performed using the Yfiler Plus and Investigator Argus X-12 QS kits under ISFG-aligned quality control procedures. All four populations exhibited 100 % haplotype diversity for both marker systems, confirming strong discriminatory capacity. Several rare allelic variants were identified, including deletions, insertions, and a tri-allelic pattern among Y-STRs, as well as insertion events at X-STR loci. Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis revealed patterns consistent with the physical arrangement of X-STR loci, with marginally significant LD detected within several linkage groups in the English and Irish populations. Based on these results, haplotype-based analyses were conducted using all 886 valid male profiles across the four linkage groups, showing that LG1 and LG4 exhibited the highest discriminatory capacities. Phylogenetic and multidimensional scaling analyses incorporating global reference datasets revealed clear and interpretable patterns of population structure. Y-STR data positioned the British Isles populations within a north-western European paternal cluster, with Irish and Welsh forming a distinct Celtic subgroup. X-STR results showed a close maternal-line relationship between English and German populations consistent with Anglo-Saxon migrations, and a separate Celtic cluster comprising Irish and Welsh, with the Scottish population showing intermediate affinity. Overall, this study provides a robust and forensically relevant dataset reflecting both paternal and maternal genetic diversity across the British Isles, improving the accuracy of forensic identification and kinship analysis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100438"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145576008","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-01Epub Date: 2025-09-15DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100429
Sasitaran Iyavoo , Sharlize Pedroza Matute , Kiera Turvey , Stephen Cummings , Thomas Haizel
In 2024, the English Speaking Working Group of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ESWG-ISFG) introduced single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping into its annual proficiency trial, providing DNA testing laboratories with their first opportunity to evaluate performance in this area. Twelve laboratories participated using a range of sequencing and microarray platforms. AttoLife Limited, a UKAS-accredited laboratory, contributed results using the Infinium HTS iSelect custom ‘Rita’ microarray containing 4366 SNP markers. Blood samples from a child and alleged father were supplied on FTA cards, extracted with the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit, quantified using the Quantifiler Trio kit, and genotyped following the Infinium HTS protocol with GenomeStudio analysis. SNP call rates exceeded 99 % (excluding Y-SNPs in the female child), confirming high-quality data. Three discrepancies were identified, rs10108270 in both samples and rs10513300 in the child, which subsequent Sanger sequencing attributed to probe-binding site variation and potential copy number imbalance. These findings illustrate the value of proficiency testing in detecting locus-specific challenges, reinforce the need for cautious interpretation of uncertain results, and highlight the importance of cross-platform comparison to strengthen confidence in forensic SNP genotyping.
2024年，国际法医遗传学学会英语工作组（ESWG-ISFG）将单核苷酸多态性（SNP）基因分型引入其年度熟练度试验，为DNA测试实验室提供了第一次评估该领域表现的机会。12个实验室使用一系列测序和微阵列平台参与了这项研究。AttoLife有限公司是ukas认可的实验室，使用Infinium HTS iSelect定制“Rita”微阵列提供了包含4366个SNP标记的结果。儿童和疑似父亲的血液样本放在FTA卡上，用QIAamp DNA Mini Kit提取，使用Quantifiler Trio试剂盒定量，并根据Infinium HTS协议与GenomeStudio分析进行基因分型。SNP呼叫率超过99% %（不包括女性儿童的y -SNP），证实了高质量的数据。发现了三个差异，两个样本中的rs10108270和孩子中的rs10513300，随后的Sanger测序将其归因于探针结合位点变异和潜在的拷贝数失衡。这些发现说明了熟练程度测试在检测基因座特异性挑战方面的价值，强调了对不确定结果谨慎解释的必要性，并强调了跨平台比较对增强法医SNP基因分型信心的重要性。
{"title":"Internal quality assessment and genotyping error investigation in SNP microarray testing: Lessons from the ESWG-ISFG forensic proficiency trial","authors":"Sasitaran Iyavoo , Sharlize Pedroza Matute , Kiera Turvey , Stephen Cummings , Thomas Haizel","doi":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100429","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fsir.2025.100429","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In 2024, the English Speaking Working Group of the International Society for Forensic Genetics (ESWG-ISFG) introduced single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping into its annual proficiency trial, providing DNA testing laboratories with their first opportunity to evaluate performance in this area. Twelve laboratories participated using a range of sequencing and microarray platforms. AttoLife Limited, a UKAS-accredited laboratory, contributed results using the Infinium HTS iSelect custom ‘Rita’ microarray containing 4366 SNP markers. Blood samples from a child and alleged father were supplied on FTA cards, extracted with the QIAamp DNA Mini Kit, quantified using the Quantifiler Trio kit, and genotyped following the Infinium HTS protocol with GenomeStudio analysis. SNP call rates exceeded 99 % (excluding Y-SNPs in the female child), confirming high-quality data. Three discrepancies were identified, rs10108270 in both samples and rs10513300 in the child, which subsequent Sanger sequencing attributed to probe-binding site variation and potential copy number imbalance. These findings illustrate the value of proficiency testing in detecting locus-specific challenges, reinforce the need for cautious interpretation of uncertain results, and highlight the importance of cross-platform comparison to strengthen confidence in forensic SNP genotyping.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":36331,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Science International: Reports","volume":"12 ","pages":"Article 100429"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145117896","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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