Postmortem taphonomic scavenging is the consumption or modification of remains by fauna and can impede forensic investigations. While scavenging by carnivores and some herbivores has been documented, characterization of equine scavenging of human remains in forensic literature is limited. We present a case of suspected perimortem and postmortem scavenging by domesticated horses while acknowledging important limitations in definitively attributing the observed injuries to horses. A 69-year-old male was found deceased in a barn stall with 2 horses. External examination revealed distinct injuries, including partial loss of distal phalanges, alongside arch-shaped abrasions on the extremities. The decedent has a history of hand-feeding his horse, and the injury patterns were consistent with equine nibbling and nipping behavior. The death was determined to be natural. Although no direct observation of feeding activity was documented, scene context and forensic evaluation did not support alternative causes for the injuries. This case aims to contribute to the limited literature on equine-related scavenging and to improve recognition of potentially misleading postmortem artifacts in medico-legal investigations.

Fatal ram attack mimicking homicidal blunt trauma: a forensic case report

Abstract The GCSE syllabus changes from 2014 introduced an element of medieval history across all examination boards. The content and structure of these new topics largely reinforces the traditional stereotypes of Key Stage 2 and 3 school history. Pressures of external examinations combined with insecure teacher specialist knowledge and few opportunities for training do not create a rich pupil experience. The government National Curriculum review (2025) includes recommendations for further use of oracy and Drama in schools as well as reducing content in the GCSE History syllabus. This article shows how the famous Old English poem Beowulf can be used as a teaching tool in History lessons to better inform pupil learning of early medieval England in relation to Key Stage 3 and to specific GCSE papers. It finds that using Beowulf in the classroom would draw upon the emotions and senses to connect landscape and memory, artefacts and conventional historic narratives in an innovative and creative way to deepen the hinterland of pupil knowledge and build upon those government recommendations. It suggests that we should reflect on how ‘history’ itself is constructed and how we could reimagine the past as scholars, teachers and students.

The spotted seal (Phoca largha) is a flagship species and natural monument inhabiting Korean coastal waters. Due to its conservation importance and the rarity of carcass discoveries, determining the cause of death of each individual is critical. A juvenile female spotted seal carcass was discovered on the eastern coast of Korea in May 2025. External examination revealed multiple parallel lacerations consistent with propeller strike injuries. Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) was performed prior to necropsy to provide a comprehensive forensic analysis. CT imaging revealed the longest wound measured 10.49 cm in length and 1.58 cm in depth, suggesting a minimum propeller diameter of approximately 19 cm. Skeletal injuries included a coccygeal vertebral fracture and subluxation of the left astragalus and calcaneus. CT images of the respiratory tract showed frothy fluid in the nasal cavity and trachea, as well as ground-glass opacity and consolidation in the lung parenchyma. Necropsy findings confirmed severe pulmonary edema, congestion, and abundant frothy foam throughout the respiratory tract. Histological analysis revealed pulmonary edema with eosinophilic fluid and erythrocytes in alveolar spaces, markedly distended blood vessels, and intra-alveolar hemorrhage. This comprehensive approach demonstrated that the cause of death was drowning, secondary to propeller strike by a small vessel (<4.5 m). To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report providing a detailed forensic analysis of a juvenile spotted seal found on the eastern coast of Korea. This case highlights the importance of integrating PMCT with conventional necropsy to improve cause-of-death determination in marine mammal conservation.

Lethal trajectory: a case of fatal injury from an accidentally projected metal fragment.

Introduction Οcular manifestations of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) are uncommon and typically include episcleritis, keratitis, and uveitis. We report a rare case of posterior scleritis and peripheral ulcerative keratitis (PUK) in a patient with HS. Case Presentation A 44-year-old male with no significant systemic or ocular history presented with a painful corneal ulcer in the left eye, which was diagnosed as PUK. External examination showed facial scarring and only in the course and only during subsequent visits did he reveal his axillary lesions. Initial eye treatment with topical antibiotics and steroids led to marked improvement. Two weeks later, the patient developed pain in the left eye and was diagnosed based on clinical findings of posterior scleritis, which was confirmed by B-scan ultrasonography. Concurrent worsening of HS and the presence of a conjunctival granuloma. A conjunctival biopsy was performed alongside a comprehensive systemic work-up, both of which excluded infectious etiologies and systemic rheumatological autoimmune disease The patient responded well to systemic corticosteroids and continues to demonstrate stable vision and ocular health during follow-up. Over the course of his disease, he was diagnosed with peripheral ulcerative keratitis and anterior scleritis in both eyes, with the addition of posterior scleritis in the left eye. Treatment at this stage included topical dexamethasone, tobramycin, and systemic corticosteroids. Marked improvement in ocular symptoms and visual acuity was achieved. Histopathological analysis of the conjunctival biopsy revealed a benign histiocytic granuloma without evidence of malignancy or Splendore-Hoeppli phenomenon. No systemic rheumatologic autoimmune disease, including sarcoidosis, was identified. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of recognizing ocular involvement in HS, particularly posterior scleritis and PUK, which may indicate underlying autoinflammatory dysregulation. Interdisciplinary management is essential for preserving vision. To our knowledge, this is the first report of posterior scleritis, PUK and conjunctival granuloma in the context of HS.

ABSTRACT This article examines the fundamental incompatibility between liberal/enlightenment and postmodern/critical theory (PCT) paradigms in social work education, particularly regarding free speech and critical thinking. The liberal tradition requires free speech and critical thinking as essential tools for reasoned debate, empirical investigation, and knowledge advancement. In contrast, PCT frameworks, as self-described political movements with unfalsifiable tenets (e.g., the permanence of racism), often are not welcoming of open inquiry and external critical examination. Rather than simply critiquing current approaches, we offer concrete strategies for fostering intellectual pluralism that maintains social work’s longstanding commitment to social justice while restoring critical thinking to its rightful place in professional education. The implications for social work education are profound: educators must choose between promoting genuine intellectual diversity and critical thinking or advancing political ideology. We argue that social work’s ethical obligation to improve client outcomes demands pedagogical approaches grounded in rational consistency and evidentiary support. We suggest specific classroom techniques, assessment innovations, and institutional frameworks that can bridge this divide while preparing students with the analytical tools necessary to navigate complex practice realities.

Background: Imperforate hymen, occurring in approximately 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 10,000 female births, is a rare congenital anomaly of the female reproductive tract that frequently remains undiagnosed until menarche. It can present atypically as acute urinary retention due to mechanical pelvic compression. Case presentation: A 12-year-old premenarchal girl presented to the emergency department with an 8-hour history of acute urinary retention, cyclic lower abdominal pain, and nausea. Her history revealed a 4-month progression of dysuria and painful defecation. Physical examination demonstrated a bulging, bluish vaginal membrane. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed a 520 mL hematocolpos severely compressing the bladder neck, resulting in bilateral mild hydroureteronephrosis. The variance between the imaging estimate (520 mL) and the actual surgical yield (480 mL) reflects standard clinical overestimation in ultrasonographic volume calculations. The patient underwent an emergency cruciate hymenotomy with mucosal marsupialization. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. A 3-month follow-up confirmed the complete resolution of the hydroureteronephrosis and the establishment of normal, unobstructed menses. Conclusion: Delayed diagnosis of imperforate hymen can precipitate severe obstructive uropathy. Integrating routine external genitalia examinations in premenarchal adolescents presenting with lower urinary tract symptoms is imperative to prevent irreversible urological sequelae.

Background Autopsy is conventionally performed prior to embalming, as preservation procedures may obscure or destroy vital medico-legal evidence. However, in exceptional circumstances such as international transportation delays, administrative constraints, or lack of facilities, autopsies may be conducted after embalming or prolonged preservation. Scientific documentation of such cases remains sparse. This case series highlights the various medical and legal challenges faced during autopsies of embalmed bodies. There are various methods used to inhibit and retard decomposition changes over centuries. It includes mummification, thanatopraxis, and preservation of the body under low temperatures. Public transportation of the dead body to distant places, anticipating a delay in the funeral, absence of postmortem facilities, preservation of the body of important personalities for public viewing, and criminal intention in rare cases are some of the important indications for the preservation of bodies. Case Presentation We discuss a case series comprising three case reports wherein two cases (Case 1 and 3) embalming was done before autopsy, and in Case 2, the body was preserved at cold temperatures for a certain period before being transported for autopsy. The external and internal examination findings have been mentioned along with the cause of death that was concluded from a comprehensive analysis of postmortem findings and sample analysis. Conclusions In normal circumstances, embalming should not precede autopsy as it can destroy vital medico-legal evidence. As forensic experts, we need to acquire the skills to conduct autopsies on preserved bodies to gain comprehensive insights into postmortem changes and positive findings to establish the cause of death.

• Limited literature exists on mortuary operations in mass disasters. • Full autopsies may be unfeasible in mass disasters with many decedents. • PMCT confirmed and detailed skeletal trauma beyond external examination. • PMCT detected hidden visceral injuries not seen at external inspection. • PMCT enabled 3D reconstructions for court and medico-legal evidence. The use of Post-Mortem Computed Tomography (PMCT) has been proposed to investigate victims of mass fatalities. This study presents forensic investigations conducted on victims of a mass disaster. In May 2012, an earthquake occurred in the province of Modena (Italy). On that occasion, 12 workers died and were found lifeless under the rubble of the industries in which they worked. All corpses were identified at the scene of the natural accident. The Prosecutor asked the forensic pathologist to perform only an external examination to identify the cause and manner of death. The forensic pathologist obtained permission to also perform PMCT to produce additional medico-legal evidence. The Prosecutor would request a judicial autopsy if the previous investigations had proved insufficient to define the cause and manner of death. External examination revealed the presence of bone fractures, enabling localization of the injuries by anatomical region (skull, thorax, pelvis, upper extremities, lower extremities). PMCT was beneficial in identifying the exact nature and extent of skeletal injuries and direct (e.g., shattered organ) and indirect (e.g., hemoperitoneum without obvious organ laceration) evidence of organ injury. In two cases, PMCT findings were essential to perfecting the diagnosis of the cause of death. Our experience supports the view that, in cases of major natural disasters, cause and manner of death may be determined with a reasonable degree of medical certainty thanks to circumstantial elements, external examination, and PMCT findings.

• Triage CT and QT optimize the daily workflow within a forensic institution • QT enhances the value of PMCT • PMCT and QT offer a low-cost alternative for forensic investigation • Autopsy and STA remain indispensable in unclear, subtle, or legally sensitive cases Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) has emerged as an increasingly important diagnostic tool in forensic medicine and has been used since 2015 to triage decedents delivered to the Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine in order to more efficiently handle increasing caseloads. This retrospective study evaluated the use of quick toxicological screening methods (QT) in addition to PMCT for advanced postmortem triage. All 128 triage and autopsy cases of the Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine from the years 2019, 2021, and 2023 that received both PMCT and at least partial QT were analyzed using forensic radiology and toxicology reports as well as the final forensic report. QT included immunoassay for 10 substances, screening by untargeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and blood alcohol analysis by headspace gas chromatography mass spectrometry (HD-GC-MS). Of all cases externally examined at the scene in 2023, 24% were further investigated and resolved with triage CT while 38.8% received an autopsy. Since 2015, this is a decline in autopsy numbers by 21.3% and a rise in triage CT by 88.1%, with an increase in external examinations by 16.2%. Of the cases receiving triage with CT and QT, 29.4% were further investigated with autopsy and 18.1% received standard toxicological analysis (STA). QT was able to identify intake of substances in 82.8% of cases and was positive in all 33 cases of intoxication. Cardiac, metabolic or infectious diseases were difficult to detect via triage with CT and QT. QT is an important tool to confirm or exclude drug intake via triage, especially if there are signs of drug use at the scene or radiological signs indicating intoxication in PMCT. The combination of CT triage and QT may support workflow efficiency and informed decision-making within a forensic institution, particularly in high-caseload settings, by focusing investigations on the key forensic questions, ultimately benefitting the judicial authorities as well as the bereaved families.

The last two decades have seen exponential growth in the number of US and Canadian health humanities programs. As an evolving field, there is significant variation across the structures and educational content of health humanities programs. This study was designed to solicit views from self-identified North American health humanities educators from academic programs. The primary aim was to garner broad perspectives on what distinguishes health humanities academic programs from other academic programs and what content programs should deliver to students. The goal was to distill defining features and parameters of a high-quality health humanities educational program, inquiring in particular about knowledge, skills, and values. Using Participatory Action Research methods, we conducted 14 focus group interviews composed of 89 participants. During phase one analysis, we applied 199 codes to interview transcripts, from which we identified 41 themes across seven domains: (1) Knowledge, (2) Education/Pedagogy, (3) Methodologic Approaches, (4) Skills, (5) Values, (6) Disciplinarity, and (7) Institutional Limitations/External Restrictions. Phase two analysis discerned that these themes inform five overarching themes that cross domains and educational levels: (1) Interdisciplinarity, (2) Internal Inquiry, (3) External Examination, (4) Praxis, and (5) Transformative Education. Our findings suggest that even though health humanities may have neither canonical knowledge bases nor universal methodologies, overarching themes speak to a consensus of field-level priorities that transcend programmatic variation. Further research is needed to improve tools and standards to aid in the growth, assessment, and evaluation of health humanities educational programs.

A single-center autopsy study: postmortem diagnosis of hypothermia.

Postmortem inspection is a specialized medical practice that determines the cause and manner of death via external examination of a corpse. It is performed as part of the medico-legal death investigation and a crucial step in determining whether an autopsy is necessary. In South Korea, training for doctors performing postmortem inspection and quality control for postmortem inspection results remain lacking. Therefore, the Korean Society for Legal Medicine established a task force and proposed a standard operating procedure (SOP) of postmortem inspection. This article includes the background for proposing this SOP, an introduction to the postmortem inspection process, and the principles for performing the procedure and writing the report. This SOP may serve as a basic guideline for postmortem inspection.

Background/Objectives: The attention of world science has been focused on human umbilical cord blood cell (hUCB) products for the treatment of various human diseases. The prospects for using hUCB stem from the availability of the material, non-invasive collection procedure, low immunogenicity, multipotency and non-tumorigenicity. But information about the acute toxicity, reproductive and developmental toxicity of hUCB mononuclear cells (MNCs) remains insufficient. Thus, the aim of this study is to assess the reproductive and developmental toxicity of human umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells on Wistar rats. Methods: In the fertility and early embryonic development study, human umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells (hUCB-MNCs) were administered at dose levels of 4.28 × 108 cells/kg and 8.57 × 108 cells/kg to male and female rats during the pre-mating, mating and gestation period. In the embryo-fetal development study, the pregnant female rats also received hUC-MNCs at doses of 4.28 × 108 cells/kg and 8.57 × 108 cells/kg. Results: In gestational data, including fertility rate, pregnancy rate, corpora lutea and implantation sites counts, dead and absorption fetuses' number, body weight and craniocaudal size of fetuses, anomalies in fetal development showed no statistically significant changes in 4.28 × 108 cells/kg (low dose) and 8.57 × 108 cells/kg (high dose) dose groups of hUCB-MNCs to negative control group. External, visceral and skeletal examination of the fetuses in all experimental groups also showed no changes. Embryo-fetal development study in low and high groups of hUCB-MNCs application also showed no changes in the negative control group. Conclusions: This reproductive and developmental toxicity study demonstrates that hUCB-MNCs administered intravenously at doses up to 8.57 × 108 cells/kg do not cause adverse effects on fertility, embryo-fetal development, or postnatal offspring viability in Wistar rats. The absence of reproductive toxicity is mechanistically attributable to three intrinsic properties of hUCB-MNCs: their low immunogenicity, which prevents maternal immune activation; the protective function of the intact placental barrier; and their transient, paracrine-dominant mode of action, which limits exposure duration.

Mechanical asphyxia is well documented in forensic pathology; however, deaths resulting from the simultaneous action of distinct asphyxial mechanisms remain uncommon and challenging to interpret. We report a case of homicidal asphyxia in a 20-year-old man in whom smothering, ligature strangulation, and traumatic asphyxia acted concurrently. The victim was found inside a locked suitcase. External examination revealed facial cyanosis, subconjunctival and scleral hemorrhages, and patterned cervical abrasions. Autopsy disclosed extensive hemorrhagic infiltration of cervical soft tissues with fracture of the greater horn of the hyoid, blunt-force injuries of the thoraco-abdominal wall with mesenteric hemorrhage, and pulmonary contusions associated with features of acute pulmonary emphysema. Histologic examination confirmed the vitality of the lesions. Toxicological analyses were negative for alcohol, narcotics, psychotropic substances, and common drugs of abuse. Investigative findings, including video surveillance and concordant suspect statements, documented that the victim was restrained and subjected to simultaneous airway occlusion, neck compression, and thoraco-abdominal compression by multiple perpetrators. The integration of pathologic, imaging, and investigative data supported the interpretation of a rapid fatal process in which airway occlusion (smothering), soft-ligature neck compression, and thoraco-abdominal compression acted synergistically to impair ventilation and perfusion, consistent with homicidal mechanical asphyxia. This case highlights the practical challenges of causal attribution when multiple asphyxial mechanisms co-occur and underscores the importance of structured reporting based on multiparametric correlation between pathologic and investigative evidence.

Abstract Relevance: Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of oncological diseases in women. Effective treatment and monitoring of patients with this diagnosis play a key role in increasing survival rates and improving quality of life. One important aspect of the treatment strategy for patients with breast cancer is dynamic observation. What is an Oncological Check-Up?It is a system of regular medical examinations and investigations aimed at monitoring the patient's condition after primary cancer treatment. The goals of such monitoring are:1. Early Detection of Recurrences: Regular examinations help identify the recurrence of the disease at early stages.2. Assessment of Treatment Side Effects: Monitoring allows for the evaluation of the impact of the conducted therapy on the patient's overall health.3. Treatment Adjustment: If necessary, the physician can adjust the treatment plan based on the monitoring data. The frequency of check-ups should be tailored according to the individual needs of the patient and current clinical guidelines. Methods of Investigation: In our department, prior to conducting a check-up, an initial consultation is held to develop a monitoring strategy for the patient. The attending physician determines the appropriate scope of investigations based on the complaints present at the time of consultation, medical history, subtype of the disease, and previously conducted investigations. Patient monitoring primarily follows the recommendations of the Clinical Society of Oncologists of Russia, but also includes non-standard protocols, such as consultations with lymphologists, neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and other related specialists. Results: In our surgical department, 312 patients underwent check-ups over the year. Among these, 57 patients had identified lymphatic system disorders during the lymphological examination, which included (external examination, palpation, anthropometric data collection, measurement taking, and ICG lymphography as indicated) that required further diagnostics and treatment for upper limb lymphedema. Symptoms of peripheral polyneuropathy were identified in 28 patients, based on subjective methods of investigation (collection of complaints and medical history, presence of previous chemotherapy with taxanes, neurological examination, and ENMG). Progression of the primary disease with subsequent therapy change was detected in 17 patients. Conclusions: Monitoring of patients includes not only the recommendations of the Clinical Society of Oncologists but also consultations with related specialists such as lymphologists, rehabilitation specialists, and neurologists, which allows for more effective management of patients' health status. Dynamic observation of patients with breast cancer is critically important for the early detection of recurrences, assessment of side effects, and treatment adjustment. The results of the conducted check-ups underscore the necessity of regular monitoring through a multidisciplinary approach in managing the health status of patients. Citation Format: M. I. Mukueva. Oncological Check-Up Is It Worth Investing Time and Money? [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-05-30.

Nigeria follows a 6-3-3-4 education system, comprising six years of primary schooling, three years of junior secondary education, three years of senior secondary education, and approximately four years of university or other tertiary education. This paper focuses on the teaching–learning processes within the 3-3 secondary education system, highlighting the persistence of traditional, teacher-centred methods and the limited engagement with the alternative pedagogical approach proposed by Paulo Freire, the renowned Brazilian educator and philosopher. The study further examines the challenges associated with adopting Freire’s problem-posing and dialogic pedagogy at the secondary school level in Bayelsa State, reflecting broader systemic issues in secondary education across Nigeria, including Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory. Through a review of existing literature and interviews with selected secondary school teachers, several barriers were identified: lapses in school administration, constraints in curriculum implementation, insufficient time to cover extensive syllabi, large class sizes, pressures from internal and external examinations, teacher-related factors, deficiencies in pre-service teacher training, and limited access to professional development opportunities. The paper recommends that the government and relevant educational stakeholders address these challenges to facilitate the adoption of Freirean pedagogy, thereby enhancing the quality of teaching and learning in Bayelsa State and across Nigeria.

Background: Body stuffing, defined as the rapid ingestion of poorly wrapped illicit drugs to evade arrest, is associated with unpredictable and potentially fatal complications. Although both mechanical airway obstruction and drug exposure may be encountered, establishing the primary mechanism of death remains a major forensic challenge, particularly in deaths occurring during police custody. Case presentation: We report the case of a man who died suddenly during police custody while being transported to hospital. External examination revealed facial congestion and superficial traumatic lesions, along with older self-inflicted scars. Medico-legal autopsy demonstrated complete obstruction of the glottic opening by a knotted plastic bag containing two Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) tablets. Toxicological analyses were qualitative only and identified MDMA in blood, urine, and gastric contents, as well as Tetrahydrocannabinol limited to gastric contents. No quantitative drug concentrations were available to assess toxicity severity or lethality. The direct visualization of a foreign body firmly obstructing the glottis provides unequivocal anatomical evidence of fatal mechanical asphyxia. While MDMA exposure was documented, the absence of quantitative toxicological data precludes attribution of death to drug toxicity. At most, drug exposure may be considered a possible contributory condition, without demonstrable causal primacy. Conclusion: This case demonstrates that mechanical airway obstruction may constitute a complete and sufficient cause of death in body stuffing, even in the presence of detectable drugs. It underscores the importance of meticulous airway examination, cautious interpretation of qualitative toxicology, and comprehensive medico-legal investigation in deaths occurring during police custody.

Background: Acute cyanide poisoning of dietary origin is a rare but potentially fatal cause of pediatric intoxication. In young children, ingestion of cyanogenic plants or seeds may lead to rapid clinical deterioration, particularly when diagnosis and specific antidotal treatment are delayed. Such cases pose significant clinical and medico-legal challenges, especially in contexts involving traditional food or medicinal practices. Case presentation: We report the case of a two-year-old boy admitted with sudden impairment of consciousness progressing to deep coma. Initial clinical assessment did not identify a clear etiology. Subsequent medical history revealed ingestion of bitter apricot kernels stored within the domestic environment for traditional use. The child developed severe metabolic acidosis and neurological failure. Toxicological analysis confirmed a markedly elevated blood cyanide concentration (0.8 mg/L). Despite intensive supportive care, including mechanical ventilation and hemodynamic support, the specific antidote hydroxocobalamin could not be administered due to unavailability. The clinical course was rapidly unfavorable, culminating in multiorgan failure and death. In accordance with judicial procedures, an external forensic examination was ordered by the Public Prosecutor. Given the clarity of the circumstances, the well-documented clinical course, and the unequivocal antemortem toxicological confirmation of cyanide poisoning, a full medico-legal autopsy was not deemed necessary. Conclusion: This case illustrates the potentially preventable nature of food-related cyanide poisoning in children and underscores the decisive role of early etiological diagnosis and timely access to specific antidotal therapy. Beyond establishing the cause of death, the observation highlights the importance of a comprehensive medico-legal approach integrating clinical analysis, healthcare system organization, and child protection considerations. Strengthening preventive strategies and ensuring availability of life-saving antidotes are essential to reduce avoidable pediatric deaths related to domestic toxic exposures.