Khalid W. Zainulabdeen, Alaa A. Rashad, Shams A. Ismeal, Muna Bufaroosha, Shaimaa A. Hussein, Omar Al-Tameemi, Ziad Fidil, Wedad H. Al-Dahhan, Rahimi M. Yusop, Emad Yousif

Investigating the concept of chemical functionalization in forensic applications among pharmacy students: A questionnaire study

Introduction

Investigating the concept of chemical functionalization in forensic applications among pharmacy students: a questionnaire study. Assess pharmacy students' understanding of chemical functionalization in forensic pharmacology through a questionnaire. Identifies knowledge gaps and suggests educational enhancements.

Abstract

Forensic science plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system by providing essential evidence and aiding the resolution of crimes. One significant aspect of forensic science is functionalizing pharmacology, which involves the analysis of drugs and their metabolites in biological samples to ascertain their origins and potential effects. It is imperative for future healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacy students, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the functionalization of pharmacology in forensic science. However, there is a paucity of research on pharmacy students' current knowledge and comprehension in this specific domain. Hence, the present study aimed to utilize a questionnaire-based approach to explore pharmacy students' understanding of functionalizing pharmacology in forensic science. The primary objective of this investigation was to identify strengths and weaknesses within this cohort's knowledge base, ultimately offering recommendations for enhancing pharmacy education in this field.

Review

This study addresses a highly relevant and under-researched area concerning pharmacy students' preparedness for roles potentially intersecting with forensic science. The aim to assess current knowledge and identify strengths and weaknesses in their understanding of forensic applications, specifically related to drug analysis, is commendable and timely given the crucial role of forensic pharmacology in the criminal justice system. The stated objective to inform and enhance pharmacy education in this field is a significant and valuable contribution. However, a primary concern immediately arises from the abstract's conceptual clarity: the title specifies "chemical functionalization," while the abstract consistently refers to "functionalizing pharmacology," defining it as "analysis of drugs and their metabolites in biological samples." This terminological divergence creates ambiguity regarding the precise scope and focus of the investigation, which is fundamental to the study's design and interpretation. The chosen questionnaire-based methodology is appropriate for a preliminary exploration of knowledge and comprehension within a student cohort. The novelty of investigating this specific knowledge gap among pharmacy students offers a unique opportunity to tailor educational interventions effectively. Identifying specific areas of strength and weakness will undoubtedly provide actionable insights for curriculum developers. Nevertheless, the abstract would benefit from further elaboration on *how* "functionalizing pharmacology" (or "chemical functionalization" from the title) will be operationalized and measured within the questionnaire. For instance, does it delve into specific analytical techniques, drug metabolism pathways relevant to forensic toxicology, or the role of chemical modifications in drug detection? Clarifying these aspects is essential to understand the depth and breadth of the proposed assessment. Overall, this study holds significant promise for contributing to the enhancement of pharmacy education by bridging a critical knowledge gap. The findings could lead to valuable recommendations for curriculum modifications, potentially advocating for increased integration of forensic pharmacology, analytical chemistry relevant to drug detection, or interdisciplinary modules. While the potential impact on future healthcare professionals is substantial, it is imperative that the authors address the conceptual and terminological inconsistencies between the title and abstract. A precise definition of the core concept under investigation – whether it is "chemical functionalization," "forensic pharmacology," or another related domain – is crucial for the study's integrity, clarity, and the accurate interpretation of its findings.

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