MDI Myth: Nobody Cares About or Uses MDI Data

Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

Misconceptions abound regarding the role of medicolegal death investigation (MDI) professionals, particularly the pervasive belief that they solely work with and for the deceased. This perception often leads to a public reluctance in engaging with medical examiner and coroner (MEC) systems, especially from stakeholders who hold the proverbial purse strings. The reality is, MDI data impacts the living, from assisting grieving families to influencing public health at regional and even national levels. This presentation includes specific examples highlighting the impact of MDI professionals beyond death investigations.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on November 7, 2024.

(Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=98nTolqesGk

Quantitative Analysis Method For Tetrahydrocannabinol Isomers

Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

Of recent, forensic toxicology laboratories have been grappling with the emergence of tetrahydrocannabinol isomers within biological specimens. Traditional methodologies are often inadequate in the separation of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and Δ8-tetrahydrocannabinol, which are the most common isomers identified in forensic testing. This webinar focuses on the validation of a quantitative liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the analysis of tetrahydrocannabinol isomers in biological matrices and the analytical challenges associated with these compounds.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on June 25, 2024.

(Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wA4D6A9B4RQ

LC DAD With Optional ESI/MS : An Emerging Gold Standard For Hemp Compliance

Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

This webinar discusses the essential aspects of best practice using liquid chromatography diode array detector (LC-DAD) with optional electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI/MS) for compliance testing of hemp and hemp-derived products. The key topics of this webinar will include: 1) an overview of the most effective LC separation published so far; 2) a description of a simple methanol extraction procedure, consisting of homogenization, ultrasonication/pulverization, centrifugation, filtration, and dilution, to recover cannabinoids from a wide range of samples; 3) how to utilize ultraviolet (UV) detection at multiple wavelengths for optimal sensitivity and improved selectivity; and 4) how to confirm identity of cannabinoids by optional ESI/MS using either high or low-resolution mass spectrometry.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on June 13, 2024.

(Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srvW6aGKIoM

Smart Cars, Clean Mobility & Industrial Strength: Action Plan for the European Automotive Sector

Source: European Commission (video statements)

The European Commission has launched new initiatives to keep Europe at the forefront of the global automotive race. President Ursula von der Leyen chaired the third Strategic Dialogue on the Future of the European Automotive Industry, bringing together industry leaders, social partners, and key stakeholders to drive urgent action and innovation.

Here’s what’s on the road ahead:

– Boosting electric vehicles and battery production
– Autonomous and connected cars through a fresh European Alliance
– Protecting the industry from unfair competition and ensuring raw material access
– Empowering workers with reskilling for a clean mobility future

With strategic partnerships and a powerful Action Plan, the EU is gearing up to lead the shift toward sustainable, smart, and competitive mobility — setting the pace for 2035 and beyond.

Chapters
00:44 Innovation and digitalisation
01:14 Clean mobility
01:48 Competitive and resilient supply chains
02:20 Skills & Social dimension
02:42 Level playing field in business environment

👉 Want to dive deeper? Check out the full press release here: https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_2090

Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
Follow us on:
-X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
-Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZV_LoSnJ3jU

Forensic Use Of GPR And LiDAR Technology For Clandestine Grave Detection

Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

(Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuzJxNyr4h0

The Increased Value of Forensic Science to Lead Gun Crime Investigations Compressed

Source: US National Institute of Justice (video statements)

Numerous crime laboratories have witnessed a surge in gun-related evidence submissions, leading to an increased demand for DNA testing and entry into the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) for firearms-related investigations. Simultaneously, the forensic value of firearms analysis has substantially grown, owing to advancements in DNA technology and the expansion of the NIBIN database. Consequently, several forensic labs have established dedicated units specifically focused on comprehensive firearms analysis. This webinar showcases agencies that have implemented gun crime programs, highlights significant workflow modifications they have made, addresses questions regarding eligibility for the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), and evaluates the return on investment in forensic examination of this crucial evidence.

This webinar was hosted by the NIJ Forensic Technology Center of Excellence on January 16, 2024.

(Opinions or points of view expressed represent the speaker and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice. Any product or manufacturer discussed is presented for informational purposes only and do not constitute product approval or endorsement by the U.S. Department of Justice.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ki06Vvm12G0

What did President von der Leyen say during the State of the Union 2025 speech?

Source: European Commission (video statements)

The President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen addressed the European parliament during the State of her Union 2025 speech.
In her speech, the President called for unity among European nations and institutions and outlined the importance for Europe to lead the way be an example for other nations.
So, what should be expected from the European Commission in the years to come?
-An unwavering support to Ukraine and efforts to make Russia pay for its war.
-Boosted European Defence and Security with large investments and loan programmes.
-A set of measures for the way forward on the conflict in Gaza to ensure a lasting peace and a two-state resolution.
-Actions to keep Europe competitive in Digital, Clean Technology, Trade and international partnerships
-Strong support for industries in the Clean Transition
-Protection of European freedoms, especially in the media and information domains
-Protection of children with regulations related to social media platforms
– Actions to strengthen migration policies and the European pact on asylum
-Combined Member State effort to act as a united Europe for civil preparedness

Watch on the Audiovisual Portal of the European Commission:
Follow us on:
-X: https://twitter.com/EU_Commission
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/europeancommission/
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EuropeanCommission
-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/european-commission/
-Medium: https://medium.com/@EuropeanCommission

Check our website: http://ec.europa.eu/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=frdPrqmD-xk

International Day of Democracy 2025 – UN Chief message | United Nations

Source: United Nations (video statements)

Video message by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the International Day of Democracy 2025.

"Democracy is powered by the will of the people — by their voices, their choices, and their
participation.
It thrives when the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all are upheld — especially the
most vulnerable.
A democracy that excludes is no democracy at all.
To those who seek to discredit or undermine democracy, I say this:
I lived under a dictatorship.
And, along with many others, I helped rebuild democracy in Portugal.
I know the difference.
Today, as we mark 18 years of this International Day — and 20 years of the UN Democracy Fund
— we honour the courage of people everywhere who are shaping their societies through dialogue,
participation, and trust.
At a time when democracy and the rule of law are under assault from disinformation, division,
and shrinking civic space, these efforts are more vital than ever.
The United Nations itself is a forum for dialogue — rooted in the opening words of our Charter,
‘We the peoples.’
This is a powerful reminder that our legitimacy and purpose derive from those we serve.
Let us reaffirm democracy as a force for dignity, inclusion, and peace — and work together to
ensure it delivers for all."

More info: https://www.un.org/en/observances/democracy-day

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEO1TrRUwFE

State of the European Union 2025: Empowering Workers, Fighting Poverty

Source: European Commission (video statements)

In her State of the Union speech, President Ursula von der Leyen highlights steps to empower workers and build a competitive economy. The EU is laying out plans to eradicate poverty by 2050, tackle the cost of living, and boost homegrown renewables — turning promises into reality for families across Europe.
 
#SOTEU2025

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Zd6AF_vqxXg