Recreational aquatic activities carry a significant risk of injury and fatality, with drowning being the primary cause of death. Although encounters with aquatic wildlife are usually accidental, they can occasionally result in severe stings or bites. Here, we present the case of a man in his early thirties who suddenly disappeared while swimming with seven others in the Gulf of Aden, just ten minutes after entering the water. Despite extensive search efforts, he could not be located. His body was recovered on the shore forty-eight hours later. The autopsy revealed a large, irregular, semicircular wound of 42 cm in diameter, with distinct bite marks on the right side of the torso, strongly suggestive of a shark attack. However, no shark tooth fragments were recovered during the examination. No evidence of drowning or myocardial infarction was identified. The wound margins exhibited haemorrhagic infiltration, indicating vital tissue reaction. Although the probability of a shark attack is minimal compared with other causes of injury and death in such environments, the findings in this case were compelling. This article examines the evidence supporting a fatal shark attack, as opposed to postmortem scavenging of a victim who died from alternative causes, and presents the forensic arguments and indicators that led to the identification of the responsible species, the tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier). Rare fatal shark attack documented in the Gulf of Aden. Autopsy findings revealed characteristic features of a large shark bite. Forensic analysis of the wound suggested a tiger shark (Galeocerdo cuvier).

With greater availability of post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT), the Brooks and Suchey method is frequently applied in medico-legal contexts using 3D reconstructions of the pubic symphysis. The scientific literature contains reference samples constructed from either dry bones (autopsy series) or 3D reconstructions (virtual samples). This study aims to evaluate the impact of reference sample nature (dry bone vs. virtual bone) on age estimation, based on an analysis of the pubic symphysis from different origins (dry bone vs. 3D reconstruction). This study involved a test sample of pubic symphyses, from which 3D reconstructions were obtained by scanning. We estimated the age of these individuals by comparing their pubic symphyses (derived from both dry bones and 3D reconstructions of the same individuals, and staged accordingly) against two distinct reference samples: the original Bone Reference Sample (BRS) by Brooks and Suchey, and a more recently published Virtual Reference Sample (VRS). The percentages of correct age estimates suggest no significant influence from the reference sample’s nature. For younger individuals, inaccuracy values reveal a lower age estimation error when utilizing the BRS reference sample. Furthermore, bias values show an overestimation. For older individuals (> 40), the nature of the reference sample does not seem to improve the estimation. However, according to age groups, bias values seem to be less underestimated with the VRS reference sample. We can conclude that, regardless of the nature of the specimen, the BRS sample appears to improve age estimation for younger individuals. However, there seems to be no benefit to using a virtual sample for a 3D specimen. Furthermore, the age structure of the reference samples is an important factor to consider.

We report an autopsy case in which broncholithiasis mimicked retained ballistic projectiles in a putrefied body. A medico-legal autopsy was performed on a 76-year-old male found in an advanced state of putrefaction. Macroscopic examination during autopsy revealed small, stony intrapulmonary nodules raising suspicion of retained pellets. Whole-body post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) allowed us to further characterize these elements. The structures were subsequently analyzed using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) to determine their elemental composition. PMCT demonstrated multiple hyperdense micronodules within the right upper lobe, arranged in a linear endobronchial pattern without metallic artifacts, strongly suggesting a calcified biological origin. SEM-EDS analysis revealed a predominance of calcium and phosphorus, with no evidence of metallic elements typically associated with ballistic materials. These findings and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of broncholithiasis. Broncholithiasis may closely mimic retained ballistic fragments at the macroscopic level in decomposed bodies, representing a significant forensic diagnostic pitfall. While PMCT is key to orienting the diagnosis, this work highlights the value of a multimodal approach combining post-mortem imaging, histopathology, and elemental microanalysis to provide definitive chemical confirmation and prevent misinterpretation of the cause and manner of death.

Focusing on craniofacial bones, this study investigates morphological variation related to sexual dimorphism in order to deepen our understanding of human biological diversity and to provide new data from a contemporary reference sample. Accordingly, the research was guided by three objectives (i) identify the facial regions exhibiting the greatest sexual dimorphism using landmark-based geometric morphometric method; (ii) evaluate the reliability of discriminant models based on these dimorphic regions; and (iii) conduct exploratory analyses to assign sex classification probabilities to ancient subjects using the discriminant models derived from a contemporary reference sample. The reference sample comprised 44 skulls from subjects of known sex who died in 2024. The ancient sample included 4 skulls recovered from the Grotte de La Medecine (France), attributed to the chalcolithic period. Fourteen facial landmarks were digitized using 3DSlicer. Generalized Procrustes Analysis was performed to extract shape variables and standardized coordinates for statistical analysis. Thin-Plate Spline transformations quantified and visualized deformation amplitudes between the female and male shapes. Landmarks in the orbital showed the highest deformation amplitudes. Goodall F-test comparing male and female shapes across three facial regions revealed significant sexual dimorphism only in the orbital region and the global facial shape. Discriminant analysis demonstrated that the orbital region provided the highest classification accuracy (88.6%) compared to the global facial region (72.7%). The discriminant models yielded high probabilities of male and female sex classification for the ancient subjects. Using a reproducible method, comparable levels of accuracy to those reported in the scientific literature were achieved despite a relatively modest sample size. These findings further confirm the significant role of the orbital region in human craniofacial sexual dimorphism.

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.

Differentiating bladed weapons in sharp force trauma remains a critical forensic challenge. While macroscopic examination offers preliminary clues, it often lacks the precision to identify the specific weapon used. Yet, correctly attributing a wound to a particular blade type can be decisive in legal investigations. This study explores the combined use of morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with elemental analysis via SEM-coupled Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX), to detect unique signatures left by different bladed weapons.We conducted a prospective experimental study using three smooth-bladed knives: a hunting knife, a ceramic knife, and a common utility knife (Opinel type 8). A custom-built machine created standardized stab wounds on ex vivo specimens with consistent pressure. A total of 30 wounds (10 per knife type) were analyzed.Wounds were first examined using SEM to identify specific morphological criteria like groove depth and width. Simultaneously, EDX was used to identify and quantify trace particles from the blades. Analysis was performed on both bone and soft tissue samples to represent conditions of maximal and more realistic deposition. The elemental composition of each blade was determined as a reference, and negative controls ensured sample integrity.While morphological differences exist between wounds produced by each of the weapons, their distinction remains a challenge. Scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) provides complementary data. A detailed statistical comparison of particle density and nature was performed. Thus, distinct morphological features and characteristic elemental signatures were observed in the wounds. These results demonstrate that a combined morphological and compositional analysis provides an effective method for differentiating sharp force injuries.This research establishes a comprehensive protocol for characterizing sharp force injuries. The findings will enhance forensic investigations by providing a precise, objective method to identify the type of weapon used, thereby making a valuable contribution to forensic pathology.

Background Computed tomography is a key non-invasive approach in archaeology and biological anthropology, particularly valuable for bones embedded in mineral or sedimentary matrix, where manual cleaning may compromise their physical integrity. Such conditions are typical of the sepulchral caves of the Grands Causses (France), natural karstic cavities used as collective burial spaces during the Neolithic. These sites present complex funerary assemblages, shaped both by diverse mortuary practices and post-depositional processes, which could hinder macroscopic osteological examination. The cave of La Médecine, attributed to the Treilles cultural group (2600–2300 BCE, chalcolithic), exemplifies these contexts and constitutes the focus of this study. Methods The virtual cleaning of the calcified remains was enabled by post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and digital segmentation with 3D Slicer software. The anthropological study was conducted using morphometric methods. Sex estimation was performed on pelvic bones using probabilistic sex diagnosis, and on cranial measurements through discriminant functions and logistic regression models based on European reference datasets. Age-at-death was estimated through dental development and the state of epiphyseal fusion. Results CT imaging revealed skeletal elements that had not previously been identified, leading to a minimum of 13 individuals (frequency-based MNI). Both sexes and different age groups, from adults to juveniles, were represented. The spatial arrangement of the remains and the observed fragmentation patterns indicate two distinct chronological phases of funerary use within the cave. Conclusions PMCT represents a reliable and non-destructive tool to analyze skeletal remains embedded in calcified blocks. This approach enhances access to anthropological and taphonomic information that would otherwise remain inaccessible, while maintaining the original state of preservation. It provides new insights into the chronological sequence and spatial organization of the burial deposits within the cave of La Médecine. 3D modeling also yields a digital archive for long-term conservation and further research.

Pasteurella canis is a Gram-negative bacterium commonly found as a commensal organism in the oral cavity of dogs and cats. Human infections are rare and typically occur following skin breaches, with bacteremia reported less frequently. To date, fatal central nervous system infections in adults caused by P. canis have not been reported. We report the case of a 25-year-old immunocompetent man with no significant medical history. The patient developed otitis a few days after his dog licked his ear. Twenty days later, he died at home following a febrile illness with headaches. An autopsy revealed purulent meningitis. Bacteriological cultures from the ear and subdural empyema isolated P. canis and Streptococcus anginosus group. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of fatal adult meningoencephalitis caused by P. canis. The case highlights the pathogen's invasive potential and underscores the importance of prompt evaluation of otitis with neurological involvement.

Background: Abusive head trauma (AHT) is a major cause of infant morbidity and mortality but remains a challenging diagnose, as a clear history of trauma is often lacking and witnesses are usually limited to the perpetrator. Because several caregivers may attend to the same child, determining the timing of injury is crucial for identifying the offender. Among the approaches used to establish timing, the existence of a “lucid interval” between trauma and symptom onset remains controversial.Objective: To systematically reviewed the existing literature on the presence or absence of a lucid interval between AHT and symptom onset.Participants and Setting: Eligible studies included children evaluated for AHT in whom both the timing of trauma and the onset of symptoms were reported.Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE and Google Scholar were systematically searched for articles published up to 2026.Results: 16 studies were included: 5 case-reports or case-series, 10 retrospective studies and 1 systematic review published in 1995. Differences between studies mainly reflected how a lucid interval was defined. Studies reporting immediate symptoms defined the interval as the time to any symptoms, even nonspecific ones (e.g. vomiting, lethargy, irritability), whereas others often considered the delay to specific neurological signs such as seizures or loss of consciousness.Conclusions: Despite the low level of evidence of the included studies, this review suggests that symptoms occur immediately at the time of AHT, although early nonspecific signs may initially be overlooked. When combined with other methods, these findings may help experts determine the timing of AHT.

Electrocution remains a significant cause of workplace fatalities, particularly in high-voltage environments. Diagnostic challenges arise from the often non-specific internal and external autopsy findings, necessitating robust evidence for reconstructing events and determining liability. This report presents a case of fatal high-voltage electrocution at a hydroelectric plant, focusing on the analysis of suspected electrical entry and exit wounds using scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). A middle-aged male electrician sustained fatal injuries while working on a 63 kV transformer. Autopsy revealed electrical burns consistent with electrocution. SEM-EDS analysis identified an electrical entry wound on the right hand, characterized by metallization consistent with contact with a conductive object, specifically a metal tape measure found near the body. This finding supports a scenario involving safety protocol violations and human error. Multiple exit wounds were observed, a recognized phenomenon in high-voltage electrocutions. Notably, metallization was confirmed at exit wounds in skin samples from the left hand and feet, a finding typically considered a hallmark of electrical entry wounds. This unexpected observation underscores the importance of analyzing both entry and exit wounds with SEM-EDS to avoid misinterpretations. This case highlights the crucial role of SEM-EDS in the forensic analysis of electrical injuries, facilitating accurate event reconstruction and aiding in liability assessment.

The development of the human midface is still partly unknown. Despite much research, some aspects of dimorphism and growth trajectories during childhood remain unclear, due to the complexity and interdependence of structures such as the sphenoid bone or the maxilla, although various analytical methods, such as anthropometric measurements, geometric morphometry, and surface registration techniques, have been put in place and continue to be optimized for a better understanding of this complex development. We therefore set out to develop a surface registration method without segmentation, through a MultiSlice Computed Tomography (MSCT) study of midface development in immature children aged 0 to 15 years. This study tested the feasibility of this method by creating mean shapes by sex and age, and producing colorimetric maps of intersex deformation within age and intrasex deformation between adjacent ages, in order to visualize the effects of growth and dimorphism on midface shape, independently of size. To ensure clarity of analysis, only results from individuals aged 3, 9, 11, and 15 years were reported, focusing on the maxillary arch, maxillary sinuses, and palate. The results reveal sex and age differences, observed through voxel contractions and dilations in the images. These deformations appear to be linked to dental eruptions and associated bone remodeling, which also lead to inferior displacement of the maxillary sinuses during growth. Furthermore, it was noted that these processes manifest themselves earlier in female individuals, while male individuals show more robust teeth and structures by the end of puberty. Finally, although the results obtained with this method are promising, further efforts are needed due to the many challenges encountered during the process, and will provide a better understanding of maxillary growth, enabling better prevention of pathologies linked to this zone, better diagnosis, and development of early treatments for these pathologies.

Cases of battery ingestion are well documented in the scientific literature, especially concerning button cell battery ingestion in children. In this instance, the authors present an atypical case of a young man who voluntarily ingested a cylindrical alkaline battery containing manganese. The patient died approximately a week later, despite not exhibiting any specific symptoms. The battery was found in the cecum during the autopsy, showing deterioration at its positive pole. The cecal mucosa exhibited two ulcerations without perforation. Histological analysis revealed intestinal ischemia in the cecum, with no microscopic lesions in other organs. Toxicology reports indicated high levels of manganese in both cardiac and peripheral blood. Considering all the results from the additional analyses, the experts concluded that the death was likely of multifactorial origin, associated with a toxic blood concentration of manganese. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first recorded death following the ingestion of a cylindrical battery, and the first instance of manganese intoxication resulting from the ingestion of an alkaline battery. The authors will present the case and provide a literature review to assess the extent to which the presence of manganese may have contributed to the fatality.

Gunshot residues (GSR) analysis can be valuable in a forensic context for distinguishing entry wounds from exit wounds, especially in cases when body alterations prevent macroscopic analysis. Several studies have demonstrated its usefulness in various contexts. However, few studies have examined the retention of GSR under environmental conditions particularly after burial.The primary objective of our experimental study is to investigate the retention of GSR after burial and decomposition by using two techniques: SEM-EDX and ICP-MS. Our secondary objective is to determine whether it is still possible to distinguish the entry wounds from the exit ones after 2 months of burial. For this study, we used a bovine model (cow feet), and fired with 7 mm semi-jacketed bullets. We formed several groups, including 3 control groups that hadn't been shot (buried for 2 days and 60 days and one unburied group), 3 test groups that had been shot (one unburied and two buried that were exhumed after 2 days and 60 days of burial).The results of our study show that both SEM-EDX and ICP-MS were suitable for detecting particles characteristic of GSR, after 60 days of burial. However, only SEM-EDX could differentiate easily the entry wounds from the exit ones.Our experimental study demonstrates that SEM-EDX analysis is suitable in cases where the discovery of a buried body doesn't allow the macroscopic determination of the ballistic trajectory.

The detection of gunshot residue (GSR) can be useful to determine if the wound has been caused by a firearm and it could help to differentiate the entry wound from the exit one. Carbonization is a good method for altering crime scenes. However, there are few studies in this specific context. The first objective of our study was to examine the persistence of GSR in wounds after carbonization. The second aim was to differentiate entry wounds from exit ones. For the experiment, bullets were fired with a 22LR on sheep limbs at contact range. The specimens were divided into four groups: two that weren't shot at (fresh and carbonized limbs) and two of shot limbs (one with carbonization and one without). Carbonization was performed in the open air using an accelerant. Wounds were analyzed using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX) and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Lead, Antimony and Barium were observed using SEM-EDX only in the entry wounds, while lead was found in the exit ones. ICP-MS enabled the detection of these elements in the entry and exit wounds but predominantly in the entry ones. After carbonization we observed a huge decrease of GSR. With SEM-EDX most of the particles detected were only consistent with GSR. Anyway, the identification of GSR and the differentiation between entry and exit wounds were still possible with both techniques. Therefore, they are suitable for detecting GSR in carbonized gunshot wounds under the specific conditions of our experiment.

Age-at-death estimation is an important issue in forensic medicine and anthropology. Initially, methods relied on morphological criteria, but with the advancement of radiology, new techniques such as morphological studies on multi-slice computed tomography (CT) reconstructions have emerged. Recent studies have shown promising results by investigating the correlation between age and bone mineral density (BMD). However, there is currently a lack of data on post-mortem CTs (PMCT) involving decomposed bodies, and limited information exists regarding changes in Hounsfield Units measurement in a post-mortem context. In light of these gaps, our study aimed to examine the relationship between age at death and pubic and ilium BMD using a sample of forensic bodies. We also aimed to determine whether post-mortem processes, such as putrefaction, could interfere with this correlation. Our retrospective analysis encompassed 637 PMCTs conducted before medicolegal autopsies at Tours University Hospital. Utilizing simple and multiple linear regressions, we investigated the correlation between age and pubic and ilium BMD, as well as the relationship between BMD and the radiologic alteration index (RAI), a scale employed to quantify the degree of putrefaction. Our findings indicate promising outcomes in age-at-death estimation using pubic and/or ilium BMD for bodies exhibiting no or moderate decomposition (RAI < 80), particularly among individuals under 40 years old. However, for highly decomposed corpses (RAI ≥ 80), the presence of gas infiltration significantly influences the BMD of both the ilium and pubis. Consequently, we advocate for the incorporation of the RAI score into the age estimation equation to enhance the accuracy of our results in such cases. Further investigation involving a larger cohort of decomposed bodies could facilitate refinement and validation of our method within this specific population.

Analysis of the oral cavity of human archaeological remains can provide essential information on the general health status of the person. The objectives of this paper are (i) to highlight an analysis of the oral state of the embalmed body of a 17th century female aristocrat with modern techniques of periodontal diagnosis and (ii) to provide a description of the therapeutic and aesthetic management intended to limit the functional and aesthetic consequences of the loss of teeth related to this periodontal disease. This paper provides the first demonstration of a link between a diagnosis and a therapy on an identified individual using new digital technologies used in modern dentistry. We propose that the objective of the treatment was triple: therapeutic, aesthetic and societal. Beyond the only therapeutic care and far from the only coquetry, this study shows also the importance of the appearance for aristocratic women submitted to strong social constraints (like stress or widowhood), the speech of the disfigured women being could be regarded as depraved.

Ancient DNA preserved in the dental pulp offers the opportunity to characterize the genome of some of the deadliest pathogens in human history. However, while DNA capture technologies help, focus sequencing efforts, and therefore, reduce experimental costs, the recovery of ancient pathogen DNA remains challenging. Here, we tracked the kinetics of ancient Yersinia pestis DNA release in solution during a pre-digestion of the dental pulp. We found that most of the ancient Y. pestis DNA is released within 60 min at 37°C in our experimental conditions. We recommend a simple pre-digestion as an economical procedure to obtain extracts enriched in ancient pathogen DNA, as longer digestion times release other types of templates, including host DNA. Combining this procedure with DNA capture, we characterized the genome sequences of 12 ancient Y. pestis bacteria from France dating to the second pandemic outbreaks of the 17th and 18th centuries Common Era.

The objective of this study is to assess, using cone-beam CT (CBCT) examinations, the correlation between hard and soft anatomical parameters and their impact on the characteristics of the upper airway using symbolic regression as a machine learning strategy. Methods: On each CBCT, the upper airway was segmented, and 24 anatomical landmarks were positioned to obtain six angles and 19 distances. Some anatomical landmarks were related to soft tissues and others were related to hard tissues. To explore which variables were the most influential to explain the morphology of the upper airway, principal component and symbolic regression analyses were conducted. Results: In total, 60 CBCT were analyzed from subjects with a mean age of 39.5 ± 13.5 years. The intra-observer reproducibility for each variable was between good and excellent. The horizontal soft palate measure mostly contributed to the reduction of the airway volume and minimal section area with a variable importance of around 50%. The tongue and the position of the hyoid bone were also linked to the upper airway morphology. For hard anatomical structures, the anteroposterior position of the mandible and the maxilla had some influence. Conclusions: Although the volume of the airway is not accessible on all CBCT scans performed by dental practitioners, this study demonstrates that a small number of anatomical elements may be markers of the reduction of the upper airway with, potentially, an increased risk of obstructive sleep apnea. This could help the dentist refer the patient to a suitable physician.