Forensic Science International
Scope & Guideline
Bridging Disciplines for Enhanced Forensic Practice
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Forensic DNA Analysis:
The journal extensively covers advancements in DNA analysis techniques, including multiplex PCR, next-generation sequencing, and methods for extracting DNA from challenging samples, such as degraded materials. - Toxicology and Substance Analysis:
Research related to the detection and quantification of drugs and poisons in biological samples, including post-mortem toxicology, drug profiling, and the impact of new psychoactive substances. - Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity:
The integration of digital evidence in forensic investigations, including the analysis of digital footprints and the use of machine learning in forensic applications. - Forensic Anthropology and Odontology:
Studies on skeletal remains, age estimation techniques, and dental analysis for identification purposes, highlighting methods for estimating age from dental features and bone structures. - Crime Scene Investigation Techniques:
Innovative methodologies for crime scene reconstruction, bloodstain pattern analysis, and the use of advanced imaging techniques to document and analyze evidence. - Environmental Forensics:
Research on the interaction between environmental factors and forensic evidence, including the analysis of soil, water, and microbial communities in the context of forensic investigations. - Forensic Biology and Entomology:
Exploration of biological indicators in forensic contexts, including the use of insects for estimating time of death and the analysis of biological materials for identification. - Legal and Ethical Aspects of Forensic Science:
Discussion on the ethical implications, legal standards, and best practices in forensic science, including the use of forensic evidence in court.
Trending and Emerging
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence:
The integration of machine learning algorithms in forensic analysis is gaining traction, particularly for tasks such as facial recognition, voice comparison, and drug detection, providing more accurate and efficient results. - Microbial Forensics:
Emerging research on the use of microbial communities for forensic identification and environmental tracing is becoming increasingly significant, highlighting the role of microbiomes in establishing connections to crime scenes. - Advanced Imaging Techniques:
There is a growing emphasis on the use of advanced imaging technologies, such as 3D modeling and infrared imaging, to enhance the visualization and analysis of forensic evidence. - Forensic Genetics and Ancestry Analysis:
Research focusing on forensic genetics, particularly ancestry analysis using SNPs and microhaplotypes, is trending as forensic scientists seek to understand population genetics and its implications for identification. - Environmental and Ecological Forensics:
The intersection of forensic science with environmental science is emerging, with studies exploring the effects of environmental conditions on the preservation and analysis of forensic evidence. - Digital and Cyber Forensics:
The trend towards integrating digital forensic methodologies is accelerating, with a focus on analyzing digital evidence and understanding its implications in criminal investigations. - New Psychoactive Substances (NPS) Research:
As new psychoactive substances continue to emerge, there is a significant increase in research dedicated to their detection, analysis, and implications for public health and safety.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Forensic Techniques:
There has been a noticeable decline in studies focusing on traditional methods such as hand-drawn sketches and basic fingerprint analysis, as the field moves towards more advanced, technology-driven approaches. - General Forensic Reports and Reviews:
The journal has shifted away from broad reviews of forensic practices to more specific, targeted research, leading to fewer articles that provide generalized overviews. - Conventional Toxicology:
Research on conventional toxicology practices has decreased as more attention is given to the analysis of new psychoactive substances and advanced analytical techniques. - Forensic Document Examination:
While still present, the frequency of studies specifically focused on traditional document examination techniques has decreased in favor of digital and electronic document analysis. - General Crime Scene Protocols:
There is a waning interest in generic crime scene protocols as the focus has shifted towards specialized techniques and technologies that enhance evidence collection and analysis.
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