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Reither JB, Taylor D, Szkuta B, van Oorschot RAH. Determining the number and size of background samples derived from an area adjacent to the target sample that provide the greatest support for a POI in a target sample. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 68:102977. [PMID: 38000160 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2023.102977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
When sampling an item or surface for DNA originating from an action of interest, one is likely to collect DNA unrelated to the action of interest (background DNA). While adding to the complexity of a generated DNA profile, background DNA has been shown to aid in resolving the genotypes of contributors in a targeted sample, and where references of donors to the background DNA are not available, strengthen the LR supporting a person of interest contributing to the targeted sample. This is possible thanks to advances in probabilistic genotyping, where forensic labs are able to deconvolute complex DNA profiles to obtain lists of genotypes and their associated weights. Coupled with DBLR™, one can then compare multiple evidentiary profiles to each other to determine the contribution of common, but unknown, contributors. Here, we consider factors associated with taking background samples and whether one should collect multiple background samples that all relate to a single target sample, or if one should collect larger background samples rather than smaller samples. Background samples consisted of DNA accumulated on the items primarily by one or both occupants of a single household, while targeted samples were generated from touch deposits, or saliva deposits that had been left to air dry. Samples were collected from areas of various sizes, consisting of only the background, the target and the background directly beneath it, and the target and additional surrounding background. A broad range of DNA quantities were recovered, with larger background samples (400 cm2) yielding significantly more DNA than smaller background samples (30 cm2). Significant differences in DNA quantities between target samples were not observed. Generated DNA profiles were interpreted using STRmix™ and DBLR™, and where there was support for a common donor between the background and target sample, pairwise comparisons were performed to observe the effect on the LR supporting the target DNA donor contributing to the targeted sample when conditioning on one (or two) common donor between the targeted sample and 1-8 background samples. Multiple background samples gave significantly higher LRs compared to a single background sample, the larger sampled background area resulted in larger LR gains than the smaller areas, and four or more background samples reduced LR variability considerably. Here we provide recommendations for the minimum and ideal number of additional background samples that should be collected, and that several smaller samples may be more beneficial than a single larger sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack B Reither
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia.
| | - Duncan Taylor
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
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2
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Doole S, Hargreaves C, Davidson G, Alexander K, Boyce M, Fraser I, Murphy C, Lee-Gorman M, Rogers C. Examining the transfer of male DNA onto female underwear in simulated non sexual social interaction versus digital penetration to assist in the evaluation of results in casework scenarios. Sci Justice 2023; 63:90-108. [PMID: 36631187 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Experiments have been carried out by the UK and Ireland Association of Forensic Science Providers Body Fluid Forum (AFSP BFF) to determine the levels of male DNA, detected during Y-STR analysis, that may be expected on female underwear from non-sexual social interaction and digital penetration, versus non-sexual social interaction only. The data obtained strongly supports the existing assumptions made: whilst low levels of DNA may be inadvertently transferred to the inside surface of a female's underwear during social interaction with a male, there is a low expectation of detecting a matching Y-STR profile to that male, which is suitable for statistical evaluation, unless he is a co-habitant of that female.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Doole
- Eurofins Forensic Services, Sir Alec Jeffreys Building, Peel Avenue, Calder Park, Wakefield WF2 7UA, United Kingdom.
| | - Charlotte Hargreaves
- Eurofins Forensic Services, Building 3, Drayton Manor Business Park, Tamworth, Staffordshire B78 3GL, United Kingdom
| | - Geraldine Davidson
- Cellmark Forensic Services, Unit B1, Buckshaw Link, Ordnance Road, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 7EL, United Kingdom
| | - Karen Alexander
- Cellmark Forensic Services, 16 Blacklands Way, Abingdon Business Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire OX14 1DY, United Kingdom
| | - Maggie Boyce
- Key Forensic Services, 207C Cavendish Place, Birchwood Park, Warrington WA3 6WU, United Kingdom(1)
| | - Isla Fraser
- Forensic Science Northern Ireland, 151 Belfast Road, Carrickfergus, County Antrim, BT38 8PL, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte Murphy
- Department of Justice and Equality, Forensic Science Ireland, Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Marce Lee-Gorman
- Department of Justice and Equality, Forensic Science Ireland, Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, Ireland
| | - Carol Rogers
- SPA Forensic Services, Scottish Crime Campus, Craignethan Drive, Gartcosh G69 8AE, Scotland
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3
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Tozzo P, Mazzobel E, Marcante B, Delicati A, Caenazzo L. Touch DNA Sampling Methods: Efficacy Evaluation and Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:15541. [PMID: 36555182 PMCID: PMC9779423 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232415541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Collection and interpretation of "touch DNA" from crime scenes represent crucial steps during criminal investigations, with clear consequences in courtrooms. Although the main aspects of this type of evidence have been extensively studied, some controversial issues remain. For instance, there is no conclusive evidence indicating which sampling method results in the highest rate of biological material recovery. Thus, this study aimed to describe the actual considerations on touch DNA and to compare three different sampling procedures, which were "single-swab", "double-swab", and "other methods" (i.e., cutting out, adhesive tape, FTA® paper scraping), based on the experimental results published in the recent literature. The data analysis performed shows the higher efficiency of the single-swab method in DNA recovery in a wide variety of experimental settings. On the contrary, the double-swab technique and other methods do not seem to improve recovery rates. Despite the apparent discrepancy with previous research, these results underline certain limitations inherent to the sampling procedures investigated. The application of this information to forensic investigations and laboratories could improve operative standard procedures and enhance this almost fundamental investigative tool's probative value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Tozzo
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, Legal Medicine Section, University of Padova, 35121 Padova, Italy
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4
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Reither JB, van Oorschot RAH, Szkuta B. DNA transfer between worn clothing and flooring surfaces with known histories of use. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 61:102765. [PMID: 36007265 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
DNA samples recovered from items of clothing are often attributed to the wearer and one or more individuals who may have contacted the item during an alleged criminal activity. Another scenario often proposed by defence counsel is that DNA was transferred from a previously contacted item/surface unrelated to the activity of interest onto the item of clothing. Under such scenarios, DNA may also be transferred from the clothing to the item/surface with which it comes into contact. One such surface is flooring, upon which clothing may be placed while not being worn or may be contacted during wearing, such as falling or being forced to the ground. This study investigates the transfer of DNA to and from clothing and flooring when different contacts are applied between the two surfaces in an environment representative of what investigators would encounter in routine casework, a residential environment. Participants were provided with two sets of new and unused upper and lower garments to wash then wear for ~8 h inside their own home before storing them in paper evidence bags. The two sets of clothing were taken to a home occupied by unrelated individuals, where one set was placed on the floor ('passive') by the researcher while the other was worn by the participant who laid with their back on the floor, rolled to one side and back, then stood up ('active'). Within the houses sampled, the main bedroom was targeted as flooring types and histories of use were more consistent across houses and less variation in DNA profile composition was previously observed for samples collected in the same room. Samples were collected from predetermined areas of the clothing and flooring where contact did and did not occur. Reference profiles were obtained from wearers and individuals they lived with, as well as occupants of the home. DNA transfer was observed from clothing to flooring and from flooring to clothing in both 'active' and 'passive' situations, though greater where a situation involved the application of pressure and friction ('active'), and only where contact between clothing and flooring occurred. Results from this study inform on the composition of DNA profiles one is likely to obtain from an item of clothing or a flooring surface following a similar contact event between the two substrates and will aid investigators when interpreting DNA evidence recovered in a domestic environment and the activities leading to its transfer and subsequent recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack B Reither
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia.
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, VIC 3085, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
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5
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Fantinato C, Gill P, Fonneløp AE. Non-self DNA on the neck: a 24 hours time-course study. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 57:102661. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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6
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Thornbury D, Goray M, van Oorschot RAH. Transfer of DNA without contact from used clothing, pillowcases and towels by shaking agitation. Sci Justice 2021; 61:797-805. [PMID: 34802654 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
DNA is frequently retrieved from commonly used objects or surfaces with no apparent biological stains. This DNA may have come from one or more individuals who directly deposited their DNA, or indirectly transferred the DNA of others, when physically contacting the sampled object or surface. Furthermore, contactless indirect DNA transfer of this 'touch DNA' from fabric substrates was recently demonstrated to be possible in a controlled laboratory environment. The circumstances and extent to which this form of contactless DNA transfer occurs are largely unknown. This study investigated indirect DNA transfer without contact by applying a gentle shaking agitation to used clothing, pillowcases and towels, with known usage and history, of 10 volunteers above the collection zone of the secondary surface. DNA transfer frequently occurred and was possible from all three investigated items. It occurred at levels that often produced informative profiles where transferred profiles closely resembled the profiles generated from the primary item. The outcomes of this study contribute to expanding the understanding of indirect DNA transfer without contact. However, this field would benefit from investigating a wider range of agitations and/or item types with various histories of use to determine the level of transfer and its detectability under different conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Devon Thornbury
- School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia.
| | - Mariya Goray
- Biometrics Division, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia; College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia; School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
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7
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Aparna R, Iyer RS, Kumar N, Sharma A. Forensic DNA profiling of tears stains from commonly encountered substrates. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 328:111006. [PMID: 34562668 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.111006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The detection and recovery of body fluid evidence to reconstruct the involvement of people in a crime is an essential step in forensic investigation. The presence of tears is extremely rare but widely misunderstood because of its nature of secretion and low volumes found. They may be secreted in cases of sexual crimes, kidnaping, and violence among many other emotionally disturbing scenarios. It is suggestive that tears are an excellent source of epithelial cells for DNA to establish identity. They are deposited on tissue paper or handkerchief and lesser common substrates include bedding, face mask, and balaclava. Trace or touch DNA can also be retrieved from used contact lenses. Since tears can be secreted due to an emotional response, they can attract forensic analysis for identification. DNA profiling from these substrates is promising in the absence of other commonly found body fluids such as blood or saliva. The current study was done to explore the use of fresh and aged tear samples for forensic DNA analysis from three different substrates i.e., tissue paper, cotton fabric, and contact lenses. STR profiles were successfully obtained from all sample types (n = 60) with 100% allele recovery. The analysis provided consistent evidence that DNA extracted using this methodology was helpful to get reliable DNA profiles for forensics comparable with that from blood or saliva for personal identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Aparna
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - R Shanti Iyer
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), Bengaluru, Karnataka, India; Dr.N.S.A.M First Grade College, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
| | - Naresh Kumar
- Regional Forensic Science Laboratory, Central Range, Mandi 175001, Himachal Pradesh, India.
| | - Arun Sharma
- State Forensic Science Laboratory, Directorate of Forensic Science Services, Junga, Shimla 171218, Himachal Pradesh, India.
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8
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Kallupurackal V, Kummer S, Voegeli P, Kratzer A, Dørum G, Haas C, Hess S. Sampling touch DNA from human skin following skin-to-skin contact in mock assault scenarios-A comparison of nine collection methods. J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:1889-1900. [PMID: 33928655 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Collection of touch DNA from an offender on the victim's skin can provide relevant evidence for investigations of criminal cases. Therefore, the choice of the optimal sample collection method is crucial. In this study, we investigated the recovery of STR profiles from touch DNA on human skin by comparing nine different collection methods: the dry and wet cotton swabs in three different movements, the double-swab (wet-dry) method, the wet and dry Copan FLOQSwabs™, and the Scene Safe FAST™ minitapes. Mock assault scenarios were conducted with a male offender grasping the forearms of a female victim. Samples were collected from the assaulted area of the victim's skin, and the recovery of the offender's STR profile was evaluated. Our results indicate that the different swabs and swabbing techniques did not have a distinct impact on the STR recovery; however, the lowest STR recovery was achieved with Scene Safe FAST™ minitapes. In addition, we compared the double-swab method to the single-swab method by analyzing the DNA quantity of the wet and dry swabs separately. We found on average 13.7% more offender DNA using the double-swab method, but this did not translate into higher STR recovery. Our findings indicate that several methods perform equally well when collecting touch DNA from human skin, although SceneSafe FAST™ minitapes seem to be the least adequate for this purpose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venus Kallupurackal
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sonja Kummer
- Zurich Forensic Science Institute, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Pamela Voegeli
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Adelgunde Kratzer
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Guro Dørum
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cordula Haas
- Department of Forensic Genetics, Zurich Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sabine Hess
- Zurich Forensic Science Institute, Zurich, Switzerland
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Valentine JL, Presler-Jur P, Mills H, Miles S. Evidence Collection and Analysis for Touch Deoxyribonucleic Acid in Groping and Sexual Assault Cases. JOURNAL OF FORENSIC NURSING 2021; 17:67-75. [PMID: 33843809 PMCID: PMC8140663 DOI: 10.1097/jfn.0000000000000324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Historically, evidence collection in sexual assault cases focused on obtaining foreign contributor bodily fluids through swab collection. With improvements in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis methods, DNA profiles can be developed from touch DNA and applied to sexual assault cases. Following a literature review on factors affecting touch DNA transfer, a groping case study with innovative evidence collection is presented to support the expansion of touch DNA evidence collection in sexual assault cases. The groping case led to the development of a statewide sexual assault touch DNA form to guide evidence collection. DNA findings from additional groping sexual assault cases are reported to further show and justify the importance of evidence collection in groping cases. Implications on multidisciplinary practices are summarized to promote evidence collection and analysis in groping sexual assault cases. As forensic nurses are educated to accurately collect DNA evidence and provide trauma-informed, patient-centered care, they are best suited to provide nursing care for patients who have experienced groping sexual assaults. Optimal DNA findings in groping and sexual assault cases are best achieved through development of strong multidisciplinary, collaborative relationships between forensic nurses and forensic scientists.
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10
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An LR framework incorporating sensitivity analysis to model multiple direct and secondary transfer events on skin surface. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2021; 53:102509. [PMID: 33930816 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2021.102509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Bayesian logistic regression is used to model the probability of DNA recovery following direct and secondary transfer and persistence over a 24 h period between deposition and sample collection. Sub-source level likelihood ratios provided the raw data for activity-level analysis. Probabilities of secondary transfer are typically low, and there are challenges with small data-sets with low numbers of positive observations. However, the persistence of DNA over time can be modelled by a single logistic regression for both direct and secondary transfer, except that the time since deposition must be compensated by an offset value for the latter. This simplifies the analysis. Probabilities are used to inform an activity-level Bayesian Network that takes account of alternative propositions e.g. time of assault and time of social activities. The model is extended in order to take account of multiple contacts between person of interest and 'victim'. Variables taken into account include probabilities of direct and secondary transfer, along with background DNA from unknown individuals. The logistic regression analysis is Bayesian - for each analysis, 4000 separate simulations were carried out. Quantile assignments enable calculation of a plausible range of probabilities and sensitivity analysis is used to describe the corresponding variation of LRs that occur when modelled by the Bayesian network. It is noted that there is need for consistent experimental design, and analysis, to facilitate inter-laboratory comparisons. Appropriate recommendations are made. The open-source program written in R-code ALTRaP (Activity Level, Transfer, Recovery and Persistence) enables analysis of complex multiple transfer propositions that are commonplace in cases-work e.g. between those who cohabit. A number of case examples are provided. ALTRaP can be used to replicate the results and can easily be modified to incorporate different sets of data and variables.
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11
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Champion J, Kanokwongnuwut P, van Oorschot RAH, Taylor D, Linacre A. Evaluation of a fluorescent dye to visualize touch DNA on various substrates. J Forensic Sci 2021; 66:1435-1442. [PMID: 33629435 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
A wide variety of items are submitted as evidence in a forensic investigation. Identifying the location of DNA on such items is central to maximizing DNA profiling success and thus the ability to link a person of interest to a particular item or crime. Recent publications describe a fluorescent staining method using Diamond™ Dye (DD) to visualize cellular material on the surface of non-porous items (e.g., glass, plastic). However, substrates of varying porosity and background color have not yet been examined. Varying porous substrates (i.e., paper bank note, stamp, cigarette, wooden matchstick, and fabric) and non-porous substrates (i.e., enamel tooth and plastic bank note) were examined for their suitability with the use of DD. To improve the visualization of cellular material on the porous substrates, we also explored two DD diluents and adjusting image contrast. The results suggest the optimal diluent depends on the absorbent nature of the substrate. For example, ethanol was sufficient for visualization on the non-porous substrates, whereas water was better for the porous substrates. While cellular material was detected on the paper bank note, tooth, and stamp, background fluorescence or autofluorescence and surface type of matchstick prevented clear visualization on this substrate. It was also determined that by adjusting the contrast of images for tooth, paper bank note and matchstick aided in the detection of cellular material. Overall, this study extends the use of DD for latent DNA detection to absorbent substrates, highlights the limitations associated with these substrate types, and suggests modifications to improve visualization on these challenging substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Champion
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Vic., Australia.,School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Vic., Australia
| | - Duncan Taylor
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Forensic Science South Australia, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Adrian Linacre
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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12
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Is it possible to predict the origin of epithelial cells? – A comparison of secondary transfer of skin epithelial cells versus vaginal mucous membrane cells by direct contact. Sci Justice 2020; 60:234-242. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 02/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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13
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Szkuta B, Ansell R, Boiso L, Connolly E, Kloosterman AD, Kokshoorn B, McKenna LG, Steensma K, van Oorschot RA. DNA transfer to worn upper garments during different activities and contacts: An inter-laboratory study. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2020; 46:102268. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2020.102268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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14
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Meixner E, Kallupurackal V, Kratzer A, Voegeli P, Thali MJ, Bolliger SA. Persistence and detection of touch DNA and blood stain DNA on pig skin exposed to water. Forensic Sci Med Pathol 2020; 16:243-251. [DOI: 10.1007/s12024-020-00234-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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15
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Butler JM, Willis S. Interpol review of forensic biology and forensic DNA typing 2016-2019. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2020; 2:352-367. [PMID: 33385135 PMCID: PMC7770417 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2019.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
This review paper covers the forensic-relevant literature in biological sciences from 2016 to 2019 as a part of the 19th Interpol International Forensic Science Managers Symposium. The review papers are also available at the Interpol website at: https://www.interpol.int/content/download/14458/file/Interpol%20Review%20Papers%202019.pdf.
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16
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Prevalence of DNA from the driver, passengers and others within a car of an exclusive driver. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 307:110139. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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17
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Fonneløp AE, Johannessen H, Heen G, Molland K, Gill P. A retrospective study on the transfer, persistence and recovery of sperm and epithelial cells in samples collected in sexual assault casework. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 43:102153. [PMID: 31505370 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Data from all sexual assault cases analysed at the Section of Forensic Biology at Oslo University Hospital in the period 2013-2015 were reviewed to study transfer and persistence of cells deposited on the body. Data were recorded on detection of both sperm and epithelial cells. The final dataset consist of 2141 samples from 765 cases. In this study "positive findings" refer to evidence to support the proposition that the DNA profile was contributed by the POI and do not only correspond to detection of cell type, e.g. sperm cells. Positive findings from analysis of sperm cells could be detected in samples collected up to 72 h after deposition, and was less frequently detected in oral swabs were the longest observed persistence time was 12 h. Positive findings from analysis of epithelial cells were observed up to 43 h after deposition. A high success rate was observed from penile swabs collected within 24 h of the incidence demonstrating the importance of collecting and analysing such samples in cases where no semen is detected.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Peter Gill
- Oslo University Hospital, Norway; University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Szkuta B, Ansell R, Boiso L, Connolly E, Kloosterman AD, Kokshoorn B, McKenna LG, Steensma K, van Oorschot RAH. Assessment of the transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA traces from clothing: An inter-laboratory study on worn upper garments. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 42:56-68. [PMID: 31229887 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2019] [Revised: 05/03/2019] [Accepted: 06/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Among the various items recovered from crime scenes or persons involved in a crime event, clothing items are commonly encountered and submitted for forensic DNA sampling. Depending on the case circumstances and the activity-of-interest, sampling of the garment may concentrate on collecting DNA from the wearer, or from one or more offenders who have allegedly contacted the item and/or wearer. Relative to the targeted DNA, background DNA already residing on the item from previous contacts, or transferred during or after the crime event, may also be collected during sampling and observed in the resultant DNA profile. Given our limited understanding of how, and from where, background DNA is derived on clothing, research on the transfer, persistence, prevalence, and recovery (TPPR) of DNA traces from upper garments was conducted by four laboratories. Samples were collected from several areas of two garments, each worn on separate working or non-working days and individually owned by four individuals from each of the four laboratories, and processed from DNA extraction through to profiling. Questionnaires documented activities relating to the garment prior to and during wearing, and reference profiles were obtained from the wearer and their close associates identified in the questionnaire. Among the 448 profiles generated, variation in the DNA quantity, composition of the profiles, and inclusion/exclusion of the wearer and their close associates was observed among the collaborating laboratories, participants, garments worn on different occasions, and garment areas sampled.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Szkuta
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia.
| | - Ricky Ansell
- Swedish National Forensic Centre, Linköping, Sweden; Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Lina Boiso
- Swedish National Forensic Centre, Linköping, Sweden
| | | | - Ate D Kloosterman
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences (SILS), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Division Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Division Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | | | - Kristy Steensma
- Division Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia; School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
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Quand les vêtements demeurent la seule matrice disponible…. TOXICOLOGIE ANALYTIQUE ET CLINIQUE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxac.2019.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Gosch A, Courts C. On DNA transfer: The lack and difficulty of systematic research and how to do it better. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 40:24-36. [PMID: 30731249 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Since DNA from touched items and surfaces ("touch DNA") can successfully and reliably be analyzed, the question as to how a particular DNA containing sample came to be from where it was recovered is of increasing forensic interest and expert witnesses in court are increasingly challenged to assess for instance whether an incriminatory DNA sample matching to a suspect could have been transferred to the crime scene in an innocent manner and to guess at the probability of such an occurrence. The latter however will frequently entail expressing a subjective probability i.e. simply making a best guess from experience. There is, to the present date, an extensive and complex body of literature on primary, secondary, tertiary and even higher order DNA transfer, its possibility, plausibility, dependency on an array of variables and factors and vast numbers of permutations thereof. However, from our point of view there is a lack of systematic data on DNA transfer with existing research widely varying in quality and relevance. Our aim was, starting from a comprehensive survey of the status quo and appreciating its increasing importance, to in the first part of our review raise consciousness towards the underestimated and insufficiently accounted for complexity of DNA transfer and thus appendant research of forensic scientists serving as expert witnesses in court but also acting in the role of a journal referee to point them to areas of criticism when reviewing a manuscript on DNA transfer. In the second part, we present propositions how to systematize and integrate future research efforts concerning DNA transfer. Also, we present a searchable database providing an extensive overview of the current state of knowledge on DNA transfer, intended to facilitate the identification of relevant studies adding knowledge to a specific question and thus help forensic experts to base their opinion on a broader, more complete and more reproducible selection of studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annica Gosch
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 12, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Cornelius Courts
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Strasse 12, 24105 Kiel, Germany.
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