Search Results (595)

Background: Accurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is critical in forensic death investigations. Traditional signs of death—algor mortis, livor mortis, and rigor mortis—are generally reliable only within the first two to three days after death, with their accuracy decreasing as decomposition progresses. This paper presents a systematic review conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, aiming to evaluate and compare current methods for estimating the PMI. Specifically, the study identifies both traditional and modern techniques, analyzes their advantages, limitations, and applicable timeframes, critically synthesizes the literature, and highlights the importance of combining multiple approaches to improve accuracy. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, following the PRISMA guidelines. The review included original articles and reviews that evaluated PMI estimation methods (through thanatological signs, entomology, microbial succession, molecular, imaging, and omics approaches). Extracted data included study design, methodology, PMI range, and accuracy information. Out of the 1245 identified records, 50 studies met the inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis. Results: Emerging methods, such as molecular markers, microbial succession, omics technologies, and advanced imaging show improved accuracy across extended postmortem intervals. RNA degradation methods demonstrated higher accuracy within the first 72 h, while entomology and microbial analysis are more applicable during intermediate and late decomposition stages. Although no single method is universally reliable, combining traditional and modern approaches tailored to case-specific factors improves overall PMI estimation accuracy. Conclusions: This study supports the use of an integrative, multidisciplinary, and evidence-based approach to improve time-since-death estimation. Such a strategy enhances forensic outcomes by enabling more precise PMI estimates in complex or delayed cases, increasing legal reliability, and supporting court-admissible expert testimony based on validated, multi-method protocols. Full article

On-farm emergency slaughter (OFES) is employed when cattle are unfit for transport but still suitable for human consumption, thereby ensuring animal welfare and reducing food waste. This study analysed OFES patterns in Northern Italy, where a large cattle population is housed but information on the practice is rarely analysed. A total of 12,052 OFES cases from 2021 to 2023 were analysed. Most involved female cattle (94%) from dairy farms (79%). Locomotor disorders were the leading reason (70%), particularly trauma and fractures, followed by recumbency (13%) and calving-related issues (10%). Post-mortem findings showed limbs and joints as the most frequent condemnation sites (36%), often linked to trauma. A significant reduction in OFES cases occurred over time, mainly due to fewer recumbency and calving issues, likely reflecting stricter eligibility criteria introduced in 2022. Weekly variations, with peaks on Mondays and lows on Saturdays, suggest that logistical constraints may sometimes influence OFES promptness. These findings suggest that on-farm management and animal handling could be improved further to reduce welfare risks and carcass waste. Due to the lack of standardised data collection and regulatory harmonisation, a multi-country investigation could improve our understanding of this topic and inform best practice. Full article

The pupal stage in necrophagous flies represents the longest and least morphologically distinct phase of development, posing a persistent challenge for accurately estimating postmortem intervals (PMI) in forensic investigations. Here, we present a novel molecular approach to pupal age estimation in Sarcophaga peregrina, a forensically important species, by profiling microRNA (miRNA) expression dynamics. High-throughput sequencing across early, mid, and late pupal stages identified 191 known miRNAs, of which nine exhibited distinct monotonic temporal trends. Six miRNAs (miR-210-3p, miR-285, miR-927-5p, miR-956-3p, miR-92b, and miR-275-5p) were validated by qRT-PCR and demonstrated consistent time-dependent expression patterns. Polynomial regression models revealed a strong correlation between miRNA abundance and developmental age (R² = 0.88–0.99). Functional enrichment analyses of predicted miRNA targets highlighted their roles in key regulatory pathways, including ecdysteroid signaling, hypoxia response, autophagy, and energy metabolism. This study establishes, for the first time, a robust miRNA-based framework for estimating pupal age in forensic entomology, underscoring the potential of miRNAs as temporally precise biomarkers for PMI estimation. Full article

Forensic entomotoxicology is a subdiscipline that utilizes necrophagous insects as bioindicators for detecting drugs and toxicants in decomposed remains, particularly in cases where conventional biological matrices are no longer available. Toxic substances can profoundly alter insect development, physiology, and community succession, potentially impacting the accuracy of postmortem interval (PMI) estimation. This review systematically summarizes the effects of various xenobiotics, including pesticides, illicit drugs, sedatives, heavy metals, and antibiotics on larval growth, physiological traits, and gut microbial composition in forensically relevant flies. However, most studies to date have relied primarily on phenotypic observations, with limited insight into underlying molecular mechanisms. Significant interspecies and dose-dependent variability also exists in the absorption, metabolism, and physiological responses to xenobiotics. We highlight recent advances in multi-omics technologies that facilitate the identification of molecular biomarkers associated with xenobiotic exposure, particularly within the insect detoxification system. Key components such as cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s), glutathione S-transferases (GSTs), and ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters play essential roles in xenobiotic metabolism and insecticide resistance. Additionally, the insect fat body serves as a central hub for detoxification, hormonal regulation, and energy metabolism. It integrates signals related to xenobiotic exposure and modulates larval development, making it a promising model for future mechanistic studies in insect toxicology. Altogether, this review offers a comprehensive and reliable framework for understanding the complex interactions between toxic substance exposure, insect ecology, and decomposition in forensic investigations. Full article

Peste des petits ruminants is a highly contagious transboundary viral disease that poses a serious threat to small ruminant populations worldwide. In 2024, seven outbreaks of PPR were recorded in sheep flocks from Timiș County, marking the second confirmed incursions of peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) in Romania. This study aimed to document the clinical presentation, pathological findings, and diagnostic confirmation with these field outbreaks. Comprehensive field investigations were carried out between July and September 2024, including clinical examinations, post mortem analysis, serological screening, and molecular detection using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). A total of 13,203 sheep were evaluated, with an overall mortality rate of 12.77%. Characteristic clinical signs included mucopurulent nasal discharge, oral erosions, respiratory distress, and diarrhea. Gross lesions observed during necropsy included hemorrhagic bronchopneumonia, bile-stained liver, catarrhal enteritis, and mucosal hemorrhages. Serological testing revealed flock-level seroprevalence rates ranging from 46.7% to 80.0%, with higher rates observed in older animals. RT-PCR confirmed PPRV infection in all affected flocks. Our findings provide strong evidence of virulent PPRV circulation in an area where the virus had not been reported before. The results highlight an urgent need to strengthen surveillance systems, enhance diagnostic capacity, and foster cross-border collaboration. These field-based insights can contribute to both national and international efforts aimed at controlling and ultimately eradicating the disease. Full article

Beef production in Greece is a sector that has been characterized by a decline in both the output and the number of beef-producing animals over the last decades. The major challenge is low beef self-sufficiency; only 19.1% of demand is met by domestic production. The latter leads to a growing reliance on imports of both live animals and carcasses. Hence, the fattening of young bulls from dairy breeds could be an option to address this challenge subject to improving the quality of produced meat. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of extruded linseed in the diet of young bulls on their performance and meat quality. Sixty-eight young Holstein bulls were equally assigned in two experimental groups: the control group (CON, n = 34) and Linseed Group (LS, n = 34). Bulls in the CON group received a basal total mixed ration while LS young bulls were offered the same basal ration supplemented with linseed (5% on dry matter basis) during the final fattening stage. All bulls were subjected to three individual weightings at the beginning, the middle and the end of the trial. The feed offered was recorded daily and feed refusals were weighed for each pen to calculate feed intake. After slaughter, the Longissimus dorsi muscle from each carcass was collected to evaluate meat pH, color, chemical composition, tenderness and fatty acid profile. Analysis of variance was used to evaluate the effect of dietary intervention on performance and examined meat parameters, with significance set at p < 0.05, using SPSS software (version 29.0). Average daily gain, dry matter intake and feed conversion ratio were not affected by the dietary intervention (p > 0.05). Similarly, carcass yield and dressing percentage remained unaffected (p > 0.05). Adding extruded linseed did not result in differences in meat quality traits (p > 0.05), except for meat pH, which was significantly decreased in the LS group (p < 0.05), indicating more efficient post-mortem glycolysis. Finally, the inclusion of extruded linseed resulted in higher levels of α-linolenic acid in the meat (p < 0.05). These results suggest that including 5% extruded linseed (on a DM basis) in the diet of young Holstein bulls increased meat n-3 content, improved beef pH and maintained production performance. 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

Background: Hypothermia, occurring when core temperature drops below 35 °C, can lead to death when the body’s heat loss exceeds its heat production. This study investigates two hypothermia-related deaths, exploring the utility of immunohistochemistry, specifically focusing on chromogranin A (CgA) as a potential diagnostic tool. The aim is to assess whether CgA expression in neuroendocrine tissues can be considered a reliable indicator of premortem stress response in fatal hypothermia cases. Case Presentation: In the first case, a 67-year-old man was found on a snowy road 24 h after his disappearance. The autopsy revealed cold-induced skin lesions, gastric hemorrhages, and cerebral and pulmonary edema. Positive CgA immunostaining was observed in the pancreatic islets and adrenal medulla. In the second case, a 49-year-old man was found dead in a wooded area with indications of suicide. Both cases were examined with attention to macroscopic findings and histological samples from major neuroendocrine organs. As in previous cases, CgA immunostaining was positive in the pancreatic islets and adrenal medulla. Staining intensity was moderate to strong, consistent with heightened neuroendocrine activity, supporting the hypothesis of systemic stress prior to death. Conclusions: Although CgA is a potentially valuable adjunct in hypothermia diagnosis, careful consideration of cadaveric preservation is emphasized, particularly when bodies are preserved before autopsy. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm its diagnostic specificity and to distinguish true pathological patterns from postmortem artifacts. Full article

Internal Dry Reforming of Methane (IDRM) in biogas fed Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) was investigated on Fe-Au modified Ni/GDC electrolyte-supported cells at 900 and 850 °C. The aim was to clarify the synergistic interaction between Fe and Au, focusing on the effect of X wt.% of Au loading (where X = 1 or 3 wt.%) in binary Au-Ni/GDC and ternary 0.5 wt.% Fe-Au-Ni/GDC fuel electrodes. The investigation combined i-V, Impedance Spectroscopy and Gas Chromatography electrocatalytic measurements. It was found that modification with 0.5Fe-Au enhanced significantly the electrocatalytic activity of Ni/GDC for the IDRM reaction, whereas the low wt.% Au content had the most promoting effect. The positive interaction of 0.5 wt.% Fe with 1 wt.% Au increased the conductivity of Ni/GDC and enhanced the corresponding IDRM charge transfer electrochemical processes, especially those in the intermediate frequency region. Comparative long-term measurements, between cells comprising Ni/GDC and 0.5Fe-1Au-Ni/GDC, highlighted the significantly higher IDRM electrocatalytic activity of the modified electrode. The latter operated for almost twice the time (280 h instead of 160 h for Ni/GDC) with a lower degradation rate (0.44 mV/h instead of 0.51 mV/h). Ni/GDC degradation was ascribed to inhibited charge transfer processes in the intermediate frequencies region and to deteriorated ohmic resistance. Stoichiometric analysis on the (post-mortem) surface state of each fuel electrode showed that the wt.% content of reduced nickel on Ni/GDC was lower, compared to 0.5Fe-1Au-Ni/GDC, verifying the lower re-oxidation degree of the latter. This was further correlated to the hindered H₂O production during IDRM operation, due to the lower selectivity of the modified electrode for the non-desired RWGS reaction. Full article

Background/Objectives: Electrocochleography (ECochG) is a promising tool to monitor preservation of cochlear structures and function during cochlear implant (CI) surgery. However, the interpretation of ECochG signal changes during insertion of the CI electrode array remains controversial. This study investigates the influence of the degree and localization of cochlear trauma on ECochG signal changes using a mouse model. Methods: C57BL/6J-Crl1 mice underwent intracochlear ECochG recordings during the insertion of a platinum–iridium electrode. Results: In case of grade 1 and 2 cochlear trauma, as determined by post-mortem histological analysis, we found that a reduction in intracochlear cochlear microphonic (CM) amplitude correlates more significantly with the location of the trauma than with its severity. The more basally a trauma is located, the larger the CM amplitude drop. Furthermore, the results revealed that grade 1 or 2 trauma was detectable through ECochG before more severe trauma developed. Conclusions: These findings suggest that intracochlear ECochG can serve as a reliable intraoperative tool for detecting early and possibly reversible cochlear trauma, preventing more severe damage and aiding hearing preservation. The results emphasize the need for a nuanced interpretation of CM signal drops, considering trauma location and cochlear structure integrity at the site of trauma and apical to it. Full article

Myocarditis, an inflammatory disease of the myocardium, is increasingly recognized as a potential contributor to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), though often underdiagnosed. This study reviews the current literature on the association between myocarditis and sudden death in infants, with a focus on autopsy and histopathological findings. A comprehensive search of the PubMed database yielded 64 studies published between 1960 and 2024; after applying specific inclusion criteria—such as patient age (0–6 years), presence of autopsy data, and forensic investigation—40 studies were analyzed in detail. The review identified myocarditis—especially lymphocytic—as an underrecognized but critical cause of sudden death in infants and children. Histological, molecular, and immunohistochemical findings highlighted viral infections, immune dysregulation, and structural anomalies as frequent etiological factors. Several SIDS cases were reclassified as myocarditis upon in-depth examination. These findings underscore the value of standardized autopsy protocols and integrated diagnostic approaches. Advanced postmortem diagnostic techniques, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry, have enhanced the detection of viral myocarditis. In addition, structural cardiac anomalies, such as cardiomyopathies and coronary abnormalities, may co-exist and contribute to sudden cardiac death. These findings emphasize the need for standardized autopsy protocols and the integration of molecular diagnostics in forensic investigations of SIDS. Further research is essential to improve early detection, refine diagnostic criteria, and develop preventive strategies to reduce the incidence of sudden infant death related to myocarditis. Full article

Autophagy is impaired in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), particularly at the stage of autophagosome–lysosome fusion. Recent studies suggest that the inositol polyphosphate 5-phosphatase OCRL (Lowe oculocerebrorenal syndrome protein) is involved in this fusion process; however, its role in AD pathophysiology remains largely unclear. In this study, we investigated the localization and expression of OCRL in post-mortem AD brains and in a 5XFAD transgenic mouse model. While OCRL RNA levels were not significantly altered, OCRL protein was markedly reduced in the RIPA-soluble fraction and positively correlated with the autophagy marker Beclin1. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed OCRL immunoreactivity in neuronal cytoplasm, granulovacuolar degeneration bodies, and plaque-associated dystrophic neurites in AD brains. Furthermore, OCRL overexpression in a FRET-based tau biosensor cell model significantly reduced the tau-seeding-induced FRET signal. These findings suggest that OCRL dysregulation may contribute to autophagic deficits and the progression of tau pathology in AD. Full article

The flesh fly, Wohlfahrtia nuba (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), is one of the first necrophagous insects to arrive on a cadaver and is vital for understanding decomposition. Environmental factors, especially temperature, influence insect development, which is crucial for estimating postmortem interval (PMI) in forensic entomology. This study explored how seasonal temperature variations affect the survival and development of W. nuba’s immature stages. The W. nuba colony was reared in the laboratory for four seasons from 3 October 2023 to 30 September 2024. The duration of the larval and pupal phases, the percentage of survival and mortality of the larvae and pupae, the larval growth rate, the percentage of emergence, fecundity, the sex ratio, and the pre-larviposition period were among the many life cycle characteristics that were documented during the study. Research indicates that seasonal changes affect development, shortening the growth period as temperatures rise. Flies raised at an average temperature of 38.3 °C grew faster but experienced higher larval mortality and lower survival rates. The average duration of larval and pupal stages was reduced, with an optimal development temperature of 27.9 °C showing higher survival rates, maximum body weight, and fecundity. The largest mortality rate occurred during winter at an average temperature of 18.5 °C, with males and females showing significant pupal elongation. The findings could help forensic entomologists working on legal investigations to ascertain PMI. Full article

Background:Envenomation by poisonous creatures is a major global cause of mortality. Its concomitant impact on the postmortem corpse decomposition and associated insect succession pattern is still poorly understood. Purpose of the study: This study comparatively investigates the impact of envenomization with the venoms of the snake Walterinnesia aegyptia L. versus the scorpion, Androctonus crassicauda L., on rabbit corpse decomposition and beetle succession. Methods: Three groups of rabbits (five animals each) were injected with the snake venom, the scorpion venom, or 0.9% saline (control) prior to euthanasia with CO₂. The corpse decomposition stages and beetle succession were monitored over 11 days. Results: Four stages of decomposition with venom-dependent duration variation were observed. The scorpion-envenomized corpses showed a longer decay stage and a delayed dry stage. A total of 1094 beetles belonging to 27 species of 14 families were reported. Histeridae, Dermestidae, Scarabaeidae, and Tenebrionidae were the most diversified and prevalent families. Chrysomelidae, Elateridae, Hybosoridae, and Ptinidae were incidentally attracted to control corpses, while Nitidulidae and Zopheridae were only found on control and snake-envenomized ones. Four species belonging to the families Anthicidae, Histeridae, Scarabaeidae, and Tenebrionidae were predominant on all corpses. Four species belonging to the families Chrysomelidae, Curculionidae, Elateridae, and Hybosoridae were distinctively associated with the control corpses. Conclusions: These findings provided evidence that envenomation impacted the decomposition process and beetle succession in a venom-dependent manner, which could be significant for forensic investigations. Full article

This study investigates occupant kinematic and injury responses in zero-gravity seats under rear impacts at 16 km/h, 40 km/h, and 56 km/h and evaluates the protective performance of a conventional three-point seat belt system and a four-point seat belt system. First, a THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety)-based finite element assembly consisting of a regular seat model and a conventional three-point seat belt system was verified by comparing the kinematic responses and time-history curves of head acceleration, head rotation, and the T1 acceleration of PMHS (Postmortem Human Subject) tests. Then, a THUMS-based finite element assembly in a zero-gravity seat with a three-point seat belt system was created, and computational biomechanical analyses revealed that at low-to-medium impact speeds (16 and 40 km/h), the occupant exhibited backward sliding in the zero-gravity seat along the seatback with lower limb rotation and did not experience head and neck injury. However, a 56 km/h impact induced an excessive seatback rotation and caused the head to become out of position. The neck collided with the upper part of the headrest and caused a surge in the contact force between the neck and the headrest. The head injury and neck injury were comprehensively analyzed via the head injury metrics and neck injury metrics, including cervical spine injury metrics and cervical ligament injury metrics. Further, a four-point seat belt system was adopted and demonstrated better and more balanced restraining effects by reducing the relative displacement between the occupant’s head and chest in the x- and y-directions by 26% and 84%, respectively. Therefore, the occupant’s head remains in position and the collision between the neck and the headrest can be avoided. Maximum reductions in the head and neck injury metrics reached 70% and 57%, respectively. The current study illustrates the disadvantages of the traditional three-point seat belt system in restraining the occupant in a zero-gravity seat under rear impact and shows the four-point seat belt to be a better alternative. This study sheds light on seat belt system design and optimization towards future zero-gravity seats under rear impact. Full article