Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal
Scope & Guideline
Fostering Innovation in Forensic Pathology and Medicine
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Forensic Biology and Entomology:
The journal frequently publishes studies related to forensic biology, including entomology, which examines the role of insects in decomposition and crime scene investigations. This includes research on blow flies and their behavior in various environments. - Forensic Anthropology and Human Identification:
Research focusing on the physical characteristics of human remains for identification purposes, including sex, age, and stature estimation from skeletal remains is a core area. The journal explores methodologies such as metric analysis and the use of advanced imaging techniques. - Toxicology and Substance Analysis:
There is a consistent focus on toxicology, particularly the analysis of substances involved in criminal cases, including drugs and alcohol. Studies examine the effects of these substances and their implications in forensic contexts. - Forensic Evidence Examination and Analysis:
The journal includes papers on the examination and analysis of various types of forensic evidence, such as fingerprints, fibers, and ballistic evidence, emphasizing the importance of reliable methodologies in forensic investigations. - Legal and Ethical Perspectives in Forensic Science:
The journal also addresses the intersection of forensic science with legal practices, exploring issues like the admissibility of evidence and the role of expert witnesses in court.
Trending and Emerging
- Advanced Imaging Techniques in Forensics:
There is an increasing emphasis on the use of advanced imaging technologies, such as cone beam computed tomography, for age estimation and other forensic applications. This trend suggests a move towards more precise and non-invasive methods. - Molecular and Genetic Forensics:
Research focusing on genetic profiling and DNA analysis is gaining traction, with studies exploring innovative methods for generating DNA profiles from unconventional sources, such as blood ingested by leeches. - Environmental and Ecological Forensics:
Emerging themes include the study of environmental factors affecting forensic investigations, such as the effects of terrain on insect dispersal and the implications of decomposition in different ecosystems. - Interdisciplinary Approaches to Forensic Science:
There is a growing trend towards interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating fields such as anthropology, toxicology, and even legal studies to enhance forensic methodologies and applications. - Forensic Applications of Technology and Software:
The increasing use of software tools for data analysis in forensic contexts, such as gunshot residue analysis and footwear impression databases, signifies a shift towards technology-driven research in forensic science.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Forensic Methods and Techniques:
There seems to be a waning interest in traditional forensic methods that do not integrate newer technologies or interdisciplinary approaches. This shift reflects a broader move towards more innovative and effective techniques. - General Crime Scene Investigation Protocols:
Research that simply reiterates established crime scene investigation protocols without introducing new perspectives or findings appears to be declining. The journal is likely favoring studies that offer novel insights or significant advancements. - Non-Scientific Perspectives on Forensic Issues:
Papers that primarily focus on sociological or psychological perspectives without a strong forensic science component are becoming less frequent, indicating a preference for more empirically driven research.
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