Search Results (862)

Background: Sexual dimorphism in Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) is evident in external features, but skeletal differences remain underexplored. This study aimed to examine the skull, scapula, and pelvis using traditional morphometric methods to assess sex-related variation. Methods: Eleven skeletal specimens were analyzed, including nine skulls, eleven pelves, and eighteen scapulae. Linear measurements were obtained using measuring tape and calipers. Statistical analyses included Mann–Whitney U tests, Pearson’s correlation, and logistic regression for sex prediction. Results: No significant differences were found in skull measurements between sexes. However, the pelvis and scapula exhibited notable variation. Significant pelvic parameters included pelvic girdle length (p = 0.024), symphysis length (p = 0.012), and pubis shaft perimeter (p = 0.048). Scapular differences were observed in diagonal breadth, mediolateral width, and spine length. Logistic regression using pelvic measurements yielded 100% accuracy for female classification and 66.67% for males, with an overall prediction accuracy of 90.91%. Conclusions: The pelvis demonstrated the highest reliability for sex determination. These findings enhance the anatomical understanding of Asian elephants and support applications in conservation, forensic science, and population studies. Future research with larger sample sizes and advanced imaging may improve the precision of morphometric sex prediction models. Full article

The integration of extended reality (XR) technologies, including virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR), is transforming forensic investigation by empowering processes such as crime scene reconstruction, evidence analysis, and professional training. This manuscript presents a systematic review of technological advances in XR technologies developed and employed for forensic investigation, their impacts, challenges, and prospects for the future. A systematic review was carried out based on the PRISMA^® methodology and considering articles published in repositories and scientific databases such as SCOPUS, Science Direct, PubMed, Web of Science, Taylor and Francis, and IEEE Xplore. Two observers carried out the selection of articles and a Cohen’s Kappa coefficient of 0.7226 (substantial agreement) was evaluated. The results show that XR technologies contribute to improving accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration in forensic investigation processes. In addition, they facilitate the preservation of crime scene data and reduce training costs. Technological limitations, implementation costs, ethical aspects, and challenges persist in the acceptability of these devices. XR technologies have significant transformative potential in forensic investigations, although additional research is required to overcome current barriers and establish standardized protocols that enable their effective integration. Full article

The postmortem interval (PMI), defined as the time elapsed between death and the discovery or examination of the body, is a crucial parameter in forensic science for estimating the time of death. There are many ways to measure the PMI, such as Henssge’s nomogram, which uses rectal temperature measurement; livor mortis; rigor mortis; and forensic entomology. However, these methods are usually affected by various conditions in the surrounding environment. The purpose of the present study was to compare molecular genetics and histological changes in the brain and skeletal muscle tissues of SD rats over increasing periods of time after death. For the PMIs, we considered 0 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, 36 h, 48 h, 4 days, 6 days, 8 days, 10 days, 14 days, and 21 days and compared them at 4 °C and 26 °C. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining was performed to observe tissue changes. Morphological tissue changes were observed in cells for up to 21 days at 4 °C, and cell destruction was visually confirmed after 14 days at 26 °C. Total RNA (tRNA) was isolated from each tissue sample, and complementary DNA (cDNA) was synthesized. A reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) SYBR Green assay targeting three types of housekeeping genes, including Gapdh, Sort1, B2m, and 5S rRNA, was performed. The results showed that Gapdh and 5S rRNA were highly stable and could be better RNA targets for estimating the PMI in brain and skeletal muscle tissues. Conversely, Sort1 and B2m showed poor stability and low expression levels. In conclusion, these molecular biomarkers could be used as auxiliary indicators of the PMI in human, depending on the stability of the marker. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases are a global health issue with an increasing burden and are exacerbated by hypertension. High blood pressure is partly attributed to genetic variants that are generally not well understood or extensively studied in sub-Saharan African populations. Variants linked to blood pressure have been found through genome-wide association studies (GWASs), which were mostly conducted among European ancestry populations; however, limited research has been undertaken in Africa. The current study evaluated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of PCSK9, ABCA1, LPL, and PON1 in relation to blood pressure measurements of 1839 Ghanaian adults. Methods: Genotypes were extracted from data generated by the H3Africa SNP array. After adjusting for sex, age, smoking, and body mass index (BMI), inferential statistics were used to investigate the relationships between SNPs and blood pressure (BP) indices. Additionally, Bonferroni correction was used to adjust for multiple testing. Results: Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and the minor allele T of the PCSK9 variant (rs17111557) were positively associated at p = 0.006 after covariate adjustments. Although this novel DBP-associated variant is located in the 3′ untranslated region (3′ UTR) of the PCSK9 gene, in silico functional prediction suggests it is an expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) that may change the binding site of transcription factors, potentially altering the rate of transcription and impacting DBP in this Ghanaian population. Conclusions: Our findings highlight the role of genetics in hypertension risk and the potential of discovering new therapies targeting isolated diastolic blood pressure in this rural African population. Full article

The demand for rapid, portable, and cost-effective analytical tools has driven advances in smartphone-based microfluidic sensors. By combining microfluidic precision with the accessibility and processing power of smartphones, these devices offer real-time and on-site diagnostic capabilities. This review explores recent developments in smartphone-integrated microfluidic sensors, focusing on their design, fabrication, smartphone integration, and analytical functions with the applications in forensic science, agriculture, and environmental monitoring. In forensic science, these sensors provide fast, field-based alternatives to traditional lab methods for detecting substances like DNA, drugs, and explosives, improving investigation efficiency. In agriculture, they support precision farming by enabling on-demand analysis of soil nutrients, water quality, and plant health, enhancing crop management. In environmental monitoring, these sensors allow the timely detection of pollutants in air, water, and soil, enabling quicker responses to hazards. Their portability and user-friendliness make them particularly valuable in resource-limited settings. Overall, this review highlights the transformative potential of smartphone-based microfluidic sensors in enabling accessible, real-time diagnostics across multiple disciplines. Full article

Micro-fragmented adipose tissue (MFAT) is a promising autologous therapy for knee osteoarthritis. To avoid repeated liposuction procedures for its clinical application, MFAT obtained from patients with knee osteoarthritis was stored at −80 °C in a tissue bank. This study describes the preparation, cryopreservation, thawing, and washing, as well as comprehensive analysis of cell populations in fresh and MFAT thawed after two years. Immunophenotyping of both fresh and thawed MFAT showed a significant presence of endothelial progenitors and pericytes in the stromal vascular fraction. Viability before (59.75%) and after freezing (55.73%) showed no significant difference. However, the average cell count per gram of MFAT was significantly reduced in thawed samples (3.00 × 10⁵) compared to fresh ones (5.64 × 10⁵), likely due to processing steps. Thawed MFAT samples showed increased CD73 expression on the CD31^highCD34^high subset of EP and SA-ASC, as well as increased expression of CD105 on EP, the CD31^lowCD34^low subset of EP, pericytes, and SA-ASC. Microbiological testing confirmed 100% sterility, and double washing efficiently removed DMSO, confirming sample safety. Histological analysis revealed healthy, uniformly shaped adipocytes with intact membranes. This approach allows accurate estimation of cell yield for intra-articular injection, ensuring delivery of the target cell number into the knee. Quality control analysis confirms that cryopreserved MFAT retains high cellular and structural integrity, supporting its safety and suitability for clinical application. Full article

Background/Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to be applied in wound ballistics, showing preliminary potential to improve the accuracy and objectivity of forensic analyses. This review explores the current state of AI applications in forensic firearm wound analysis, emphasizing its potential to address challenges such as subjective interpretations and data heterogeneity. Methods: A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted using databases such as Scopus and Web of Science. Keywords focused on AI and GSW classification identified 502 studies, narrowed down to 4 relevant articles after rigorous screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: These studies examined the role of deep learning (DL) models in classifying GSWs by type, shooting distance, and entry or exit characteristics. The key findings demonstrated that DL models like TinyResNet, ResNet152, and ConvNext Tiny achieved accuracy ranging from 87.99% to 98%. Models were effective in tasks such as classifying GSWs and estimating shooting distances. However, most studies were exploratory in nature, with small sample sizes and, in some cases, reliance on animal models, which limits generalizability to real-world forensic scenarios. Conclusions: Comparisons with other forensic AI applications revealed that large, diverse datasets significantly enhance model performance. Transparent and interpretable AI systems utilizing techniques are essential for judicial acceptance and ethical compliance. Despite the encouraging results, the field remains in an early stage of development. Limitations highlight the need for standardized protocols, cross-institutional collaboration, and the integration of multimodal data for robust forensic AI systems. Future research should focus on overcoming current data and validation constraints, ensuring the ethical use of human forensic data, and developing AI tools that are scientifically sound and legally defensible. Full article

Sirtuins (SIRTs), a family of NAD+-dependent enzymes, play crucial roles in epigenetic regulation, metabolism, DNA repair, and stress response, making them relevant to glioma biology. This review systematically summarizes the molecular mechanisms and context-specific functions of SIRT1–SIRT7 in central nervous system tumors, with particular focus on gliomas. SIRT1, SIRT3, SIRT5, and SIRT7 are often overexpressed and promote glioma cell proliferation, stemness, therapy resistance, and metabolic adaptation. Conversely, SIRT2, SIRT4, and SIRT6 generally exhibit tumor-suppressive functions by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting invasion, and counteracting oncogenic signaling. Preclinical studies have identified several sirtuin modulators—both inhibitors and activators—that alter tumor growth, sensitize cells to temozolomide, and regulate pathways such as JAK2/STAT3, NF-κB, and mitochondrial metabolism. Emerging evidence positions sirtuins as promising targets for glioma therapy. Future studies should evaluate sirtuin modulators in clinical trials and explore their potential for patient stratification and combined treatment strategies. Full article

Background/Objectives: One current cancer treatment is immunotherapy, in which tumor antigens (such as MAGE) or adjuvants (such as CpGs) can be used to induce the destruction of tumor cells by the immune system; however, the therapeutic response is generally weak. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a strategy that increases the immune response induced by tumor antigens and CpGs. We propose the coupling of tumor antigens and adjuvants to chitosan (Cs) microparticles to improve the immune response against cancer, as these microparticles can activate the innate immune response when recognized by macrophages and dendritic cells (DCs). Methods: Cs microparticles coupled with CpGs and tumor antigens were constructed with the emulsification method; then, their morphology, in vitro biological effect on DCs, and therapeutic effect in a murine melanoma model were analyzed. Results: The Cs microparticles showed a rounded morphology and a size of approximately 5 μ; in addition, they were not cytotoxic in in vitro assays and induced the production of IFNα. Finally, in the murine model of melanoma, treatment with Cs microparticles coupled to MAGE or CpGs reduced the tumor growth rate and increased both survival and the presence of cell death areas in the tumor parenchyma in contrast to the control group. Conclusions: The results suggest that treatment with Cs microparticles coupled to tumor antigen and/or CpGs can be considered a promising strategy in the field of immunotherapy based on the use of biomaterials. Full article

Background/Objectives: Semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist, is a well-established pharmacologic agent for inducing weight loss in individuals with obesity and is prescribed regardless of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) status. However, it remains unclear whether the weight-lowering efficacy of semaglutide differs significantly between individuals with and without DM. To address this question, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing the effects of once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide at 2.4 mg on weight loss in adults with and without DM. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed using the PubMed database to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving overweight or obese adults receiving semaglutide at 2.4 mg weekly for 40 to 70 weeks. Using a random-effects model, we estimated the weighted mean differences in body weight reduction between the two groups. Nine RCTs met the inclusion criteria, among which two provided subgroup data for participants with and without DM within the same trial population. Registration number in PROSPERO: CRD420251077610. Results: In participants with DM (n = 4 studies), semaglutide was associated with a weighted mean body weight reduction of −6.34% (95% confidence interval: −6.98 to −5.69), with negligible heterogeneity across studies (I² = 0.0%). By contrast, among participants without DM (n = 7 studies), the weighted estimate of weight loss was −11.57% (95% confidence interval: −12.94 to −10.19), with moderate heterogeneity observed (I² = 63.6%). Conclusions: The observed difference in weight loss efficacy between the groups was clinically meaningful. While once-weekly semaglutide at 2.4 mg elicited significant weight loss in both populations, the magnitude of effect was notably greater in those without DM. This disparity may be explained by metabolic characteristics frequently present in individuals with DM, such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and compensatory mechanisms related to glycemic control. Full article

Background: Suicide in older adults represents an insufficiently addressed public health problem, despite the aging population and the increase in mental disorders in this group. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated measures, such as lockdown, could have exacerbated this phenomenon. This study aimed to analyze the impact of the confinement decreed during the state of alarm in Spain on the incidence of deaths by suicide in people over 70 years of age in Extremadura. Methods: An observational and retrospective study was carried out, using data from the Institutes of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences, comparing the figures for 2020 with the years 2019, 2021, along with the average for the period 2015–2019. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests and calculation of Relative Risk with 95% CI. Results: The results revealed a significant increase in deaths by suicide in the third quarter of 2020 compared to the periods compared, especially among men. Conclusions: It is concluded that confinement may have negatively influenced the mental health of older adults, which underscores the need for specific interventions and attention to regional contextual factors. Full article

The aim of this study was to compare the types, textile structures, labels, and fiber compositions of 64 red garments submitted as evidence in selected criminal cases between 2022 and 2024. The research enhanced the current knowledge of the characteristics of red clothing available to consumers and demonstrated the relevance of textile analysis in forensic science. Knitted fabrics were the most commonly used in the garments, followed by woven fabrics, nonwovens, and felts. Fiber identification focused on color and shade, generic classification, morphological structure, and chemical composition, revealing both similarities and distinctions among the samples. In a small percentage of cases, label information was found to be inaccurate. The study also examined the fiber content of threads, patches, logos, prints, and embroidery, underscoring the forensic potential of these often-overlooked elements. The identification of over 300 individual fibers enabled a critical evaluation of the analytical procedures and confirmed their effectiveness in forensic contexts. Full article

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is a major public health concern, being a leading cause of death worldwide. SCD is particularly alarming for individuals with apparently good health, as it often occurs without preceding warning signs. Unfortunately, traditional autopsy methods frequently fail to identify the precise cause of death in these cases, highlighting the need for advanced techniques to elucidate underlying mechanisms. Recent advances in molecular biology over the past few years, particularly in proteomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics techniques, have led to an expanded understanding of gene expression, protein activity, and metabolic changes, offering valuable insights into fatal cardiac events. Combining multi-omics methods with bioinformatics and machine learning algorithms significantly enhances our ability to uncover the processes behind lethal cardiac dysfunctions by identifying new useful biomarkers (like cardiac myosin-binding protein C, acylcarnitines, or microRNAs) to reveal molecular pathways linked to SCD. This narrative review summarizes the role of multi-omics approaches in forensic diagnosis by exploring current applications in unexplained cases and the benefits of integrating merged techniques in otherwise negative autopsies. We also discuss the potential for developing personalized and preventive forensic medicine, the technical limitations of currently available methods, and the ethical considerations arising from these advancements. Full article

Clostridium sordellii, which has recently been reclassified as Paeniclostridium sordellii and subsequently as Paraclostridium sordellii, is a rare human pathogen linked to infections of high morbidity and mortality, often presenting as fulminant toxic shock syndrome. Although most documented cases involve individuals with pre-existing health issues, such as immunosuppression and cancer, or those who have undergone specific gynecological procedures, there are few instances reported in otherwise healthy individuals. In this report, we present a case of fatality associated with P. sordellii infection in a young individual with a history of drug abuse, following post-mortem examinations. Additionally, we provide an updated review of the latest literature on this topic. Full article