All-a-glow: spectral characteristics confirm widespread fluorescence for mammals.

Mammalian fluorescence has been reported from numerous species of monotreme, marsupial and placental mammal. However, it is unknown how widespread this phenomenon is among mammals, it is unclear for many species if these observations of 'glowing' are true fluorescence and the biological function of fluorescence remains undetermined. We examined a wide range of mammal species held in a museum collection for the presence of apparent fluorescence using UV light, and then analysed a subset of preserved and non-preserved specimens by fluorescent spectroscopy at three different excitation wavelengths to assess whether the observations were fluorescence or optical scatter, and the impact of specimen preservation. We also evaluated if fluorescence was related to biological traits. We found that fluorescence is widespread in mammalian taxa; we identified examples of the phenomena among 125 species representing all 27 living mammalian orders and 79 families. For a number of model species, there was no evidence of a corresponding shift in the emission spectra when the wavelength of excitation was shifted, suggesting that observations of 'glowing' mammals were indeed fluorescence. Preservation method impacted the intensity of fluorescence. Fluorescence was most common and most intense among nocturnal species and those with terrestrial, arboreal and fossorial habits, with more of their body being more fluorescent. It remains unclear if fluorescence has any specific biological role for mammals. It appears to be a ubiquitous property of unpigmented fur and skin but may function to make these areas appear brighter and therefore enhance visual signalling, especially for nocturnal species.

Mind the gap: The challenges of sustainable forensic science service provision.

Recent worldwide humanitarian and security efforts reflect the growth of forensic science as a global practice supporting peace, prosperity, and justice. While the dominance of the Global North in published research and public attention may suggest that this practice is universally well-developed, many Global South jurisdictions are at a stark disadvantage in resourcing and technological capabilities. Continued development of forensic science as an international endeavour requires a narrowing of inequalities between jurisdictions, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Here we propose a framework of principles for the sustainable provision of transparent, high-quality forensic services meeting jurisdictional needs and limitations. We illustrate how this concept of 'frugal forensics' can be applied in the context of latent fingermark detection in two Global South jurisdictions, and how quality assurance frameworks can be developed to support this service.

Preliminary evaluation of Solstice® PF as a replacement carrier solvent for Australian fingermark detection.

HFE-7100 is a routine carrier solvent in amino acid-sensitive fingermark detection reagents such as ninhydrin and 1,2-indanedione/zinc chloride (IND/Zn). However, a potential EU ban on hydrofluoroethers may require reformulation of these treatments worldwide. Solstice® PF has shown promise as a replacement for HFE-7100 in the United Kingdom. However, the performance (and hence optimal formulation) of IND/Zn is impacted by differences in climate and substrate composition, necessitating assessments under local conditions for different regions. We present a series of preliminary investigations in an Australian context, using the IND/Zn formulation used by Australian forensic service providers. The general performance of Solstice® PF-based IND/Zn was comparable to that using HFE-7100 on three substrate types, three ageing periods (1, 7 and 30 days) and 5 donors. However, slight differences in colour and luminescence intensity, as well as increased ink diffusion, suggest chemical interactions with other reagent components that may affect stability. Specifically, Solstice® PF-based reagent formed a precipitate within a month of storage, though this did not affect performance over a 4 month period. HFE-7100-based IND/Zn was found to be marginally more effective than Solstice® PF when applied to incidental fingermarks. These results indicate that Solstice® PF is a satisfactory alternative carrier solvent to HFE-7100 in an Australian context, though users should be aware of possible limitations regarding compatibility with other evidence components (particularly inks) and shelf-life.

Forensic science in Seychelles: An example of a micro-jurisdiction forensic delivery system.

Forensic science has become an indispensable tool for even the smallest of jurisdictions. However, micro-jurisdictions often face significant challenges with respect to resource availability, administration and local governance. This paper examines the forensic service provision in Seychelles as an example of a micro-jurisdiction forensic delivery system. The impact of limited resources and remote access to consumables or services have prompted the prospective shift to localise commonly utilised forensic services. The potential for a solid foundation for a sustainable forensic service is examined in relation to jurisdictions with more advanced forensic service delivery. Reforms of the legal framework, administration, and governance structures are some of the key underpinnings for an effective forensic delivery system built on a culture of transparent science that promotes justice and creates public confidence.