Forensic Imaging最新文献

{"title":"Postmortem Cardiac MRI - scanning protocol and technical considerations","authors":"Miranda Northey , Catherine Vincent , Aoife Reid , Chris O'Donnell","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200732","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200732","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Problem</h3><div>Cardiac pathology is poorly visualized on Postmortem CT (PMCT). Following installation of a mortuary-based MRI scanner, we have instituted a postmortem cardiac MRI protocol that can demonstrate cardiac and thoracic aortic anatomy</div><div>In the clinical setting, all cardiac MRI sequences are designed to accommodate a beating heart and patient breath-holds. They are ECG-gated and rapid. The most useful sequences are delayed gadolinium enhancement and cine sequences, neither of which are achievable in the postmortem setting. Lower body temperature of the deceased reduces T1 signal, adversely affecting tissue contrast. T2 contrast is much less temperature dependent</div></div><div>Cardiac pathology is poorly visualized on Postmortem CT (PMCT). Following installation of a mortuary-based MRI scanner, we have instituted a postmortem cardiac MRI protocol that can demonstrate cardiac and thoracic aortic anatomy</div><div>In the clinical setting, all cardiac MRI sequences are designed to accommodate a beating heart and patient breath-holds. They are ECG-gated and rapid. The most useful sequences are delayed gadolinium enhancement and cine sequences, neither of which are achievable in the postmortem setting. Lower body temperature of the deceased reduces T1 signal, adversely affecting tissue contrast. T2 contrast is much less temperature dependent</div><div><h3>Innovation</h3><div>Traditional cardiac-specific sequences, such as T2 STIR and T2 SPAIR were compared with non-cardiac T2 TSE (turbo spin echo) and T1 TSE sequences. These non-cardiac specific sequences had superior image quality</div><div>T2 TSE sequence has proven to the most useful for demonstrating pathology. Unlike the cardiac sequences, it can be acquired at high-resolution and in a reasonable scan time. The lower body temperature naturally decreases signal from fat. It is acquired in three traditional cardiac planes (2 and 4 chamber, and short axis) as well as overview coronal and axial planes through the chest</div><div>T1 TSE sequences are of less diagnostic value, but fast acquisition T1 volume sequence is included in our protocol as it can demonstrate epicardial and cardiac fat</div><div>Proton Density (PD) TSE with fat-saturation sequence has improved signal intensity and image contrast compared to T1 scans, making them useful to demonstrate cardiac anatomy</div><div>Resolve Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) can show ischemic change in the myocardium</div></div><div>Traditional cardiac-specific sequences, such as T2 STIR and T2 SPAIR were compared with non-cardiac T2 TSE (turbo spin echo) and T1 TSE sequences. These non-cardiac specific sequences had superior image quality</div><div>T2 TSE sequence has proven to the most useful for demonstrating pathology. Unlike the cardiac sequences, it can be acquired at high-resolution and in a reasonable scan time. The lower body temperature naturally decreases signal from fat. It is acquired in three traditional cardiac ","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200732"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951268","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Accuracy of sex estimation using the Greater Sciatic Notch angle in the Algerian population","authors":"Toufik Rafai, Mohamed Yacine Guellati, Mohamed Boutemdjet, Abdelmohcene Chibani, Saadane Alleg","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200693","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200693","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Sex estimation is a key component of the biological profile. The innominate is considered as the most dimorphic bone of the skeleton. Many methods are used, morphological and metrical, the greater sciatic notch (GSN) is less accurate but more robust than the pubic bone. The sexual dimorphism of the GSN was mainly explored in different population with conflicting results. Accuracy of the angle of the GSN was never been evaluated in the Algerian population. In this way, this study explores the accuracy of sex estimation using the angle of the GSN in an Algerian population sample.</div></div><div>Sex estimation is a key component of the biological profile. The innominate is considered as the most dimorphic bone of the skeleton. Many methods are used, morphological and metrical, the greater sciatic notch (GSN) is less accurate but more robust than the pubic bone. The sexual dimorphism of the GSN was mainly explored in different population with conflicting results. Accuracy of the angle of the GSN was never been evaluated in the Algerian population. In this way, this study explores the accuracy of sex estimation using the angle of the GSN in an Algerian population sample.</div><div><h3>Material and Methods</h3><div>A total set of 123 virtual left innominates (62 males and 61 females, aged between 18 and 86 years, were included derived from clinical CT scans of living persons performed during 2018 in Algiers hospital after ethical approval. The angle of the GSN was quantified using three landmarks. Metrical sexual dimorphism of the GSN was explored with independent t-test. Sectioning point was identified and correct sex classification rates were calculated in both sexes.</div></div><div>A total set of 123 virtual left innominates (62 males and 61 females, aged between 18 and 86 years, were included derived from clinical CT scans of living persons performed during 2018 in Algiers hospital after ethical approval. The angle of the GSN was quantified using three landmarks. Metrical sexual dimorphism of the GSN was explored with independent t-test. Sectioning point was identified and correct sex classification rates were calculated in both sexes.</div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Results show the angle of the GSN was larger in females. Female mean was 76,6°±6,6 (62°-92°) and the male one was 62,2°±6,8 (47°-81°). Significant sex difference was noted with t-test (p<0,001). A global correct sex estimation rate was 87,8% using sectioning point. Inter population differences were noted comparing our results with other similar studies.</div></div><div>Results show the angle of the GSN was larger in females. Female mean was 76,6°±6,6 (62°-92°) and the male one was 62,2°±6,8 (47°-81°). Significant sex difference was noted with t-test (p<0,001). A global correct sex estimation rate was 87,8% using sectioning point. Inter population differences were noted comparing our results with other similar studies.</div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><di","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200693"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951622","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of the dynamic phase of contrast agent using postmortem digital subtraction angiography of cerebral vessels in donated cadavers","authors":"Tomoaki Yamamoto, Mao Okuda, Saya Obuse, Mitsuha Fukami","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200720","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200720","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of cerebral vessels is widely used to assess vascular lesions in the clinical setting. However, few studies have investigated its use in postmortem imaging (PMI) except for a few trial cases using extracted brains. As cadavers have no circulation, there is sedimentation in vessels and the dynamic phase of contrast agents differs substantially from that in the living body. We assessed the dynamic phase of contrast agent in the cerebral arteries of cadavers by PMI-DSA.</div></div><div>Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) of cerebral vessels is widely used to assess vascular lesions in the clinical setting. However, few studies have investigated its use in postmortem imaging (PMI) except for a few trial cases using extracted brains. As cadavers have no circulation, there is sedimentation in vessels and the dynamic phase of contrast agents differs substantially from that in the living body. We assessed the dynamic phase of contrast agent in the cerebral arteries of cadavers by PMI-DSA.</div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Ten donated cadavers were used. The contrast agent was amidotrizoic acid (Gastrografin®). The agent was diluted two-fold, and a volume of 50 mL/sequence was manually injected into the left common carotid artery using a fixed 16G indwelling needle at 3 mL/s. DSA of the cerebral vessels was performed for 20 s at 2 frames/s, and we measured the time for contrast agent to pass each junction of cerebral vessels on anteroposterior images.</div></div><div>Ten donated cadavers were used. The contrast agent was amidotrizoic acid (Gastrografin®). The agent was diluted two-fold, and a volume of 50 mL/sequence was manually injected into the left common carotid artery using a fixed 16G indwelling needle at 3 mL/s. DSA of the cerebral vessels was performed for 20 s at 2 frames/s, and we measured the time for contrast agent to pass each junction of cerebral vessels on anteroposterior images.</div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The contrast agent flowed from the injection site to the left internal carotid artery, left middle cerebral artery, anterior communicating artery, and left anterior cerebral artery was imaged along the direction of blood flow. There was also retrograde flow into the right vessels. On the contralateral side, the right anterior cerebral artery, right middle cerebral artery junction, and right external carotid artery (3/10 cases) were observed along the direction of blood flow. However, retrograde flows of contrast agent were seen in the right internal carotid artery and right external carotid artery. Retrograde flow was also observed in the posterior communicating artery, basilar artery, and vertebral artery. Most vessels were observed within 15 s.</div></div><div>The contrast agent flowed from the injection site to the left internal carotid artery, left middle cerebral artery, anterior communicating artery, and left anterior cerebral artery was imaged along the directio","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200720"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951681","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Intraoral Digital Scans as a Tool in Forensic Odontology","authors":"Isabella Kosecki Andersen, Sara Larsen, Chiara Villa, Asta Teilum, Niels Dyrgaard Jensen, Niels Lynnerup","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200748","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200748","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study investigates whether intraoral digital scans can serve as valid postmortem (PM) data in forensic odontology, potentially replacing conventional PM clinical examinations with photographs. In this preliminary study we assessed the quality and quantity of information obtained from digital scans compared to traditional methods, focusing on ease of acquisition, time consumption and related technical issues.</div></div><div>This study investigates whether intraoral digital scans can serve as valid postmortem (PM) data in forensic odontology, potentially replacing conventional PM clinical examinations with photographs. In this preliminary study we assessed the quality and quantity of information obtained from digital scans compared to traditional methods, focusing on ease of acquisition, time consumption and related technical issues.</div><div><h3>Materials & Methods</h3><div>The material comprises four odontological identification cases conducted at the Section of Forensic Pathology, Department of Forensic Medicine, Copenhagen. Each case includes a PM clinical examination with photographs and an intraoral scan using 3Shape TRIOS 5. For both methods dental characteristics are recorded in DVI PM forms, including number of teeth, dental fillings, larger restorations such as crowns and bridges, and other characteristics. Time spent in the autopsy room in each method is recorded. Data from both forms are systematically compared in Excel to evaluate concordance and discrepancies. Quantitative analysis focuses on matching data points, while qualitative interpretation addresses patterns and limitations.</div></div><div>The material comprises four odontological identification cases conducted at the Section of Forensic Pathology, Department of Forensic Medicine, Copenhagen. Each case includes a PM clinical examination with photographs and an intraoral scan using 3Shape TRIOS 5. For both methods dental characteristics are recorded in DVI PM forms, including number of teeth, dental fillings, larger restorations such as crowns and bridges, and other characteristics. Time spent in the autopsy room in each method is recorded. Data from both forms are systematically compared in Excel to evaluate concordance and discrepancies. Quantitative analysis focuses on matching data points, while qualitative interpretation addresses patterns and limitations.</div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The preliminary results indicate that an intraoral scan with the 3Shape TRIOS 5 scanner produces highly detailed, color-accurate digital 3D models of the dentition. The scanning process is significantly faster than a traditional clinical examination. Since the scan can be reviewed remotely, the method reduces the time required in the autopsy room. Our early findings suggest that intraoral scans provide equivalent data quality to conventional, clinical methods, and thus may have a role in forensic identification, and the potential to enhance efficiency in","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200748"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951975","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Suspended in Time: Post-Mortem CT Features of Hanging – A Case Series","authors":"Milda Dedelaite ,&nbsp;Fatima Ahmad ,&nbsp;Nina Breunung-Joshi ,&nbsp;Mohammad Ali Shah ,&nbsp;Natasha Davendralingam ,&nbsp;Reena Tanna ,&nbsp;Salman Rahimi","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200709","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200709","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Hanging remains a common method of suicide. While diagnosis is primarily scene-based, PMCT can provide valuable documentation of internal injury and exclude competing causes of death.</div></div><div>Hanging remains a common method of suicide. While diagnosis is primarily scene-based, PMCT can provide valuable documentation of internal injury and exclude competing causes of death.</div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A series of hanging deaths undergoing PMCT were reviewed. Features of cervical skeletal injury, soft tissue changes, and airway/vascular appearances were recorded and compared with autopsy.</div></div><div>A series of hanging deaths undergoing PMCT were reviewed. Features of cervical skeletal injury, soft tissue changes, and airway/vascular appearances were recorded and compared with autopsy.</div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Ligature groove was often visible on CT as subcutaneous indentation.</div><div>Cervical spine injuries were rare, subtle fractures of the hyoid/thyroid cartilage were variably detected. Airway and vascular structures showed occasional haemorrhage but were frequently unremarkable. PMCT was most useful in excluding major trauma, demonstrating ligature position, and providing 3D reconstructions of the neck region.</div></div><div>Ligature groove was often visible on CT as subcutaneous indentation.</div><div>Cervical spine injuries were rare, subtle fractures of the hyoid/thyroid cartilage were variably detected. Airway and vascular structures showed occasional haemorrhage but were frequently unremarkable. PMCT was most useful in excluding major trauma, demonstrating ligature position, and providing 3D reconstructions of the neck region.</div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>PMCT in hangings highlights both its strengths and limitations. While specific internal injuries are infrequent, PMCT offers reliable exclusion of alternative trauma and valuable visual correlation with external findings, contributing to case documentation and teaching.</div></div><div>PMCT in hangings highlights both its strengths and limitations. While specific internal injuries are infrequent, PMCT offers reliable exclusion of alternative trauma and valuable visual correlation with external findings, contributing to case documentation and teaching.</div>","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200709"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951978","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Automated Radiological Identification Using 3D Segmentation of the Skull Bone from CT Data","authors":"Joel Bottoni ,&nbsp;Holger Wittig ,&nbsp;Eva Scheurer ,&nbsp;Claudia Lenz ,&nbsp;Dominique Neuhaus","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200758","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200758","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Background&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;A reliable method for the identification of deceased individuals is radiological identification through comparison of antemortem (AM) and postmortem (PM) images of anatomical structures in the head region, such as teeth or paranasal sinuses. However, this method is examiner-dependent and time-consuming. The aim of this study was to automate the comparison of image data of the entire skull.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;A reliable method for the identification of deceased individuals is radiological identification through comparison of antemortem (AM) and postmortem (PM) images of anatomical structures in the head region, such as teeth or paranasal sinuses. However, this method is examiner-dependent and time-consuming. The aim of this study was to automate the comparison of image data of the entire skull.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The skull bone was automatically segmented in 30 matching AM and PM CT datasets and 18 additional AM CT datasets using the open-source tool TotalSegmentator. Using a custom Python script, the segmented AM and PM data were registered with the image registration tool FSL FLIRT, and the degree of overlap was calculated based on the precision score (0 = no overlap, 1 = maximum overlap). The script compared each PM case with all 30 AM cases as well as the additional 18 AM cases, computed the individual overlap values, and classified the case with the highest overlap as a match.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;The skull bone was automatically segmented in 30 matching AM and PM CT datasets and 18 additional AM CT datasets using the open-source tool TotalSegmentator. Using a custom Python script, the segmented AM and PM data were registered with the image registration tool FSL FLIRT, and the degree of overlap was calculated based on the precision score (0 = no overlap, 1 = maximum overlap). The script compared each PM case with all 30 AM cases as well as the additional 18 AM cases, computed the individual overlap values, and classified the case with the highest overlap as a match.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;In 28 out of 30 PM cases, the correct AM case was identified as the match. The Dice scores of the correct matches ranged from 0.78 to 0.99, while the scores of the incorrect matches ranged from 0.37 to 0.93.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;In 28 out of 30 PM cases, the correct AM case was identified as the match. The Dice scores of the correct matches ranged from 0.78 to 0.99, while the scores of the incorrect matches ranged from 0.37 to 0.93.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The results suggest that automated 3D segmentation, registration, and similarity analysis of CT data of the entire skull can reliably, rapidly, and examiner-independently determine the correct match for a PM case. Further cases and optimizations are required to validate the method and to define a threshold value for the precision score.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;The results suggest that automated 3D segmentation, registration, and similarity analysis of CT data of the e","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200758"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147952040","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Bone density and mechanical properties in young vertebral cancellous bone for HU-based finite element analysis","authors":"Fumiko Chiba ,&nbsp;Yusuke Matsuura ,&nbsp;Masatoshi Kojima ,&nbsp;Naoki Saito ,&nbsp;Suguru Torimitsu ,&nbsp;Shigeki Tsuneya ,&nbsp;Maiko Yoshida ,&nbsp;Go Inokuchi ,&nbsp;Yumi Hoshioka ,&nbsp;Yohsuke Makino ,&nbsp;Hirotaro Iwase","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200695","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200695","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Background&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Young’s modulus (E) and yield stress (YS) relate to bone density (ρ), which is estimated from Hounsfield unit (HU) values. HU-based conversion formulae are used in finite element analysis of CT data, but most are derived from elderly bone despite age-related changes in bone quality. Young bone is ductile, but the density-toughness relationship remains unclear. We aimed to characterise relationships between ρ and E, YS and fracture energy (FE) in young cancellous bone and compare them with adults.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Young’s modulus (E) and yield stress (YS) relate to bone density (ρ), which is estimated from Hounsfield unit (HU) values. HU-based conversion formulae are used in finite element analysis of CT data, but most are derived from elderly bone despite age-related changes in bone quality. Young bone is ductile, but the density-toughness relationship remains unclear. We aimed to characterise relationships between ρ and E, YS and fracture energy (FE) in young cancellous bone and compare them with adults.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Vertebral cancellous cores (7–10 mm) were collected at autopsy. Young cases (Group Y) were &lt;20 years and control adults (Group C) 30–49 years. Specimens were scanned with a hydroxyapatite phantom, and ρ was calculated from HU. Uniaxial compression tests (10 mm/min) yielded stress–strain curves, from which E, YS and FE were obtained. YS was defined as the ultimate stress and FE as the area under the stress–strain curve. Group differences were assessed by Welch’s t-test, and relationships between ρ and E, YS and FE were analysed by linear, exponential and power regression (R²).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Vertebral cancellous cores (7–10 mm) were collected at autopsy. Young cases (Group Y) were &lt;20 years and control adults (Group C) 30–49 years. Specimens were scanned with a hydroxyapatite phantom, and ρ was calculated from HU. Uniaxial compression tests (10 mm/min) yielded stress–strain curves, from which E, YS and FE were obtained. YS was defined as the ultimate stress and FE as the area under the stress–strain curve. Group differences were assessed by Welch’s t-test, and relationships between ρ and E, YS and FE were analysed by linear, exponential and power regression (R²).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;We analysed 123 samples from three young cases (5–16 years) and 92 samples from three control adult cases (31–40). Mean ρ was lower in Group Y than Group C. In Group Y, correlations between ρ and E or YS were weak (R²≈0.1–0.2), and ρ was not associated with FE. In Group C, ρ showed moderate-to-strong correlation with YS and moderate correlations with E and FE (R²≈0.3–0.6), linear or exponential models fitted as well as or better than power functions.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;We analysed 123 samples from three young cases (5–16 years) and 92 samples from three control adult cases (31–40). Mean ρ was lower in Group Y than Group C. In Group Y, correlations between ρ and E or YS were weak (R²≈0.1–0.2), an","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200695"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951267","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Improved Contrast Resolution in PMCT Using Multi-scan Averaging","authors":"Kasper Hansen ,&nbsp;Mia Hougaard Christiansen ,&nbsp;Jonas Holt Pedersen ,&nbsp;Anika Kofod Petersen ,&nbsp;Peter Rask Møller ,&nbsp;Bruno Morgan ,&nbsp;Lene Warner Thorup Boel ,&nbsp;Henrik Lauridsen","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200780","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200780","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Background&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Postmortem CT (PMCT) is a widely acknowledged scanning methodology used worldwide for postmortem examinations. PMCT is not challenged by factors such as acquisition speed, patient movement causing motion artefacts, and radiation exposure. This enables the use of image-quality–enhancing scanner settings that fall outside the clinical range.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Here, we developed a simple, open-source method for improving signal-to-noise ratio in PMCT, which is applicable to all existing CT systems. The multi-scan averaging method can greatly enhances contrast resolution through signal-to-nosie improvement, without requiring software or hardware upgrades.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Postmortem CT (PMCT) is a widely acknowledged scanning methodology used worldwide for postmortem examinations. PMCT is not challenged by factors such as acquisition speed, patient movement causing motion artefacts, and radiation exposure. This enables the use of image-quality–enhancing scanner settings that fall outside the clinical range.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Here, we developed a simple, open-source method for improving signal-to-noise ratio in PMCT, which is applicable to all existing CT systems. The multi-scan averaging method can greatly enhances contrast resolution through signal-to-nosie improvement, without requiring software or hardware upgrades.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Our multi-scan averaging method exploit the principle that signal-to-noise ratio increases with the square root of the number of image averages. Accordingly, compared to the standard acquisition of one scan, averaging the signal from e.g. four scans - acquired from the exact same volume - doubles the signal-to-noise. This averaging, performed on reconstructed images, can be done in various open-source imaging software packages, but we have developed a dedicated software for easy and efficient PMCT averaging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Our multi-scan averaging method exploit the principle that signal-to-noise ratio increases with the square root of the number of image averages. Accordingly, compared to the standard acquisition of one scan, averaging the signal from e.g. four scans - acquired from the exact same volume - doubles the signal-to-noise. This averaging, performed on reconstructed images, can be done in various open-source imaging software packages, but we have developed a dedicated software for easy and efficient PMCT averaging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;We will focus on the workflow for acquiring PMCT datasets for multi-scan averaging, the post-processing of these data, and comparisons of datasets exhibiting different magnitudes of signal-to-noise improvement in both hard and soft tissues.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;We will focus on the workflow for acquiring PMCT datasets for multi-scan averaging, the post-processing of these data, and comparisons of datasets exhibiting different magnitudes of signal-to-noise improvement in both hard and soft tissues.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusions&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Multi-scan a","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200780"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951466","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Applicability of the Rougé-Maillart and Suchey-Brooks Methods for Age Estimation Using Computed Tomography: A Study on a Southern Tunisian Adult Sample","authors":"Siala Hela ,&nbsp;Zribi Malek ,&nbsp;Karray Narjes ,&nbsp;Mzid Yosra ,&nbsp;Gargouri Boudour ,&nbsp;Kchaw Ahmed ,&nbsp;Dhouib Hanen ,&nbsp;Ben Mahfoudh Khaireddine ,&nbsp;Ben Amar Wiem","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200686","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200686","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Introduction&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The pelvic bone is a valuable structure for age estimation, as it is well-protected and less affected by physical activity or obesity. However, assessing its morphological changes using computed tomography (CT) remains challenging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;This study evaluates the performance of the Rougé–Maillart acetabular method and the Suchey–Brooks pubic symphysis method on living adults from Southern Tunisia using CT imaging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;The pelvic bone is a valuable structure for age estimation, as it is well-protected and less affected by physical activity or obesity. However, assessing its morphological changes using computed tomography (CT) remains challenging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;This study evaluates the performance of the Rougé–Maillart acetabular method and the Suchey–Brooks pubic symphysis method on living adults from Southern Tunisia using CT imaging.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;We conducted a descriptive and analytical study on 109 adults who underwent pelvic CT scans at Habib Bourguiba Hospital (Sfax) between July and August 2022. Participants with pathological or treatment-related bone alterations were excluded. Morphological features were scored according to the Rougé–Maillart and Suchey–Brooks methods. Inter- and intra-observer reliabilities were assessed, and correlations with chronological age were analyzed using SPSS (v24).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;We conducted a descriptive and analytical study on 109 adults who underwent pelvic CT scans at Habib Bourguiba Hospital (Sfax) between July and August 2022. Participants with pathological or treatment-related bone alterations were excluded. Morphological features were scored according to the Rougé–Maillart and Suchey–Brooks methods. Inter- and intra-observer reliabilities were assessed, and correlations with chronological age were analyzed using SPSS (v24).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The intra- and inter-observer agreements were strong for all acetabular and pubic parameters (R² &gt; 0.5, p &lt; 0.05). Weak but significant correlations were found between chronological age and morphological scores (R² = 0.2–0.5). The best-fitting regression model combined both methods (adjusted R² = 0.558):&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Age = 28.9 + 4.1 × acetabular limbus + 5.9 × apical activity – 4.9 × semi-lunar surface + 4.4 × Suchey–Brooks phase.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;The intra- and inter-observer agreements were strong for all acetabular and pubic parameters (R² &gt; 0.5, p &lt; 0.05). Weak but significant correlations were found between chronological age and morphological scores (R² = 0.2–0.5). The best-fitting regression model combined both methods (adjusted R² = 0.558):&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Age = 28.9 + 4.1 × acetabular limbus + 5.9 × apical activity – 4.9 × semi-lunar surface + 4.4 × Suchey–Brooks phase.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusion&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Combining the Rougé–Maillart and Suchey–Brooks methods enhances the accuracy of CT-based age estimation. To our knowledge, this is the first study applying both methods together in ","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200686"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951786","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"From Imaging to Autopsy: A Standardized Protocol for PMCT as an Integral Part of Forensic Practice","authors":"Sara Tangmose Larsen,&nbsp;Peter Kastmand Larsen,&nbsp;Carl Johan Windgren","doi":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200706","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.fri.2026.200706","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Background&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;For more than two decades, post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) has been an integral part of medico-legal autopsies at the Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen. In 2023, an internal quality assurance review revealed inconsistencies in PMCT competencies and assessments among forensic pathologists. Moreover, the increasing diagnostic advantages of PMCT made the review and description of PMCT images in connection with autopsy, highly time-consuming, often without evaluating whether this time was well spent, for example on findings better diagnosed during autopsy. Therefore, we identified a need for a standardized approach to ensure consistent interpretation and integration of PMCT into the autopsy workflow.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;For more than two decades, post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) has been an integral part of medico-legal autopsies at the Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Copenhagen. In 2023, an internal quality assurance review revealed inconsistencies in PMCT competencies and assessments among forensic pathologists. Moreover, the increasing diagnostic advantages of PMCT made the review and description of PMCT images in connection with autopsy, highly time-consuming, often without evaluating whether this time was well spent, for example on findings better diagnosed during autopsy. Therefore, we identified a need for a standardized approach to ensure consistent interpretation and integration of PMCT into the autopsy workflow.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Methods and Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Based on the audit results and our current workflow, we developed a structured protocol for PMCT assessment prior to autopsy, focusing on three steps:&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;(1) targeted PMCT assessment to identify findings critical for autopsy planning, such as adjusting autopsy techniques or implementing safety measures,&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;(2) systematic documentation of PMCT findings by anatomical region, emphasizing areas where PMCT offers diagnostic advantages (fractures, air/fluid collections, resuscitation device placement), and&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;(3) integration of PMCT conclusions into autopsy reports, including decision-making on consulting forensic imaging specialists or radiologists when necessary.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Steps 1 and 2 ensure that only relevant PMCT observations with practical impact are carried forward, while other details remain in the PMCT record. All findings are registered in a digital form linked to the case management system, enabling database creation for research and quality monitoring.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;Based on the audit results and our current workflow, we developed a structured protocol for PMCT assessment prior to autopsy, focusing on three steps:&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;(1) targeted PMCT assessment to identify findings critical for autopsy planning, such as adjusting autopsy techniques or implementing safety measures,&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;(2) systematic documentation of PMCT findings by anatomical region, emphasizing areas where PMCT offers d","PeriodicalId":40763,"journal":{"name":"Forensic Imaging","volume":"45 ","pages":"Article 200706"},"PeriodicalIF":1.0,"publicationDate":"2026-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147951801","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}