1
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Hughes DA, Szkuta B, van Oorschot RAH, Conlan XA. The impact of substrate characteristics on the collection and persistence of biological materials, and their implications for forensic casework. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 356:111951. [PMID: 38301431 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111951] [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: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
This study assessed the level of nucleic acid persistence on the substrate pre-, and post-swabbing, in order to assess whether biological materials (touch, saliva, semen, and blood) are collected differently depending on the substrate characteristics. A total of 48 samples per deposit and substrate variety (n = 384) were assessed by tracking the persistence of nucleic acid using Diamond™ Nucleic Acid Dye (DD) staining and Polilight photography. The number of DD nucleic acid fluorescent complexes formed post-staining were counted (fluorescent count) and in conjunction with the fluorescence signal intensity (DD nucleic acid complex accumulation) used to estimate the level of nucleic acid persistence on substrates. Touch deposits have shown to be the most persistent deposit with strong adhesion capabilities on both substrate verities. Saliva displayed a higher persistence than semen and/or blood. Semen displayed a high collection efficiency as well as a high fluorescence signal intensity. Blood displayed a low persistence on both substrates with a superior collection efficiency that may also indicate a higher probability to become dislodged from surfaces given a particular activity. Our research has shown that the persistence and recovery of biological deposits is not only measurable but more importantly, may have the potential to be estimated, as such, may build an understanding that can provide valuable guidance for collection efficiency evaluations, and the assessing of the probability of particular profiles, given alternate propositions of means of transfer occurring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah A Hughes
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geelong, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Macleod, Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geelong, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Macleod, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
| | - Xavier A Conlan
- Deakin University, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Geelong, Australia.
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2
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Kuffel A, Nic Daeid N, Gray A. Comparison of swabbing and cutting-out DNA collection methods from cotton, paper, and cardboard surfaces. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2024; 8:100453. [PMID: 38283046 PMCID: PMC10821607 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Choosing an inappropriate method of sample collection can often have a detrimental impact on DNA recovery. Multiple studies highlight the importance of selecting the recovery method based on the type of surface the DNA sample is located on. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of sample collection via the single cotton swabbing method in comparison to recovery directly from the material cut from the surface. The three types of surfaces included cotton, paper, and cardboard. DNA sources comprised cell-free and cellular DNA, as well as blood and saliva as examples of body fluids commonly encountered at crime scenes. The data analysis revealed that the cutting-out method resulted in higher DNA recovery from all but cardboard surfaces, making it the more efficient collection method. Despite its limitations, the cutting-out method should be considered as the DNA recovery method of choice when suitable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Kuffel
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Niamh Nic Daeid
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander Gray
- Leverhulme Research Centre for Forensic Science, Fleming Gym Building, University of Dundee, Small's Wynd, Dundee, United Kingdom
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3
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Onofri M, Altomare C, Severini S, Tommolini F, Lancia M, Carlini L, Gambelunghe C, Carnevali E. Direct and Secondary Transfer of Touch DNA on a Credit Card: Evidence Evaluation Given Activity Level Propositions and Application of Bayesian Networks. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14050996. [PMID: 37239356 DOI: 10.3390/genes14050996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In a judiciary setting, questions regarding the mechanisms of transfer, persistence, and recovery of DNA are increasingly more common. The forensic expert is now asked to evaluate the strength of DNA trace evidence at activity level, thus assessing if a trace, given its qualitative and quantitative features, could be the result of an alleged activity. The present study is the reproduction of a real-life casework scenario of illicit credit card use by a co-worker (POI) of its owner (O). After assessing the shedding propensity of the participants, differences in DNA traces' qualitative and quantitative characteristics, given scenarios of primary and secondary transfer of touch DNA on a credit card, a non-porous plastic support, were investigated. A case-specific Bayesian Network to aid statistical evaluation was created and discrete observations, meaning the presence/absence of POI as a major contributor in both traces from direct and secondary transfer, were used to inform the probabilities of disputed activity events. Likelihood Ratios at activity level (LRα) were calculated for each possible outcome resulting from the DNA analysis. In instances where only POI and POI plus an unknown individual are retrieved, the values obtained show moderate to low support in favour of the prosecution proposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Onofri
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Cristina Altomare
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Simona Severini
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy
| | - Federica Tommolini
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy
| | - Massimo Lancia
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Luigi Carlini
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Cristiana Gambelunghe
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Eugenia Carnevali
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy
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4
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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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5
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A review on touch DNA collection, extraction, amplification, analysis and determination of phenotype. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 336:111352. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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6
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Chen C, Lin Y, Yu H, Xue Y, Xu Q, Jiang L, Zhu R, Chen A, Yang Y, Xia R, Zhang X, Yang Q, Tao R, Zhu B, Li C, Zhang S. Establishing an integrated pipeline for automatic and efficient detection of trace DNA encountered in forensic applications. Sci Justice 2022; 62:50-59. [PMID: 35033328 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2021.10.008] [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: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The analysis of trace DNA is a crucial component in forensic applications. Biological materials containing low-level DNA collected at crime scenes, such as fingerprints, can be valuable as evidence. Automatic detection of biological samples has been largely embraced in forensic applications to meet the increasing throughput requirements. However, the amount of DNA automatically retrieved from trace evidence often tends to be small and unstable, ultimately resulting in poor detection of DNA profiles. Thus, in this work, we introduced a robust DNA extraction and purification platform named Bionewtech® BN3200 (Bionewtech®, Shanghai, China) with the goal of constructing a rapid automatic detection system for trace DNA. The establishment of automatic detection system for trace DNA mainly encompassed two parts: assessing the sensitivity of automatic extraction platform and screening the optimal short tandem repeat (STR) typing kit. The sensitivity of Bionewtech® BN3200 platform based on Ultra-sensitive DNA Extraction kit was initially estimated, demonstrating that this extraction platform might contain large potential in the trace DNA extraction. For the amplification part, three sets of commercial multiplex STR typing kits were selected as candidates, and the amplified products were further genotyped on the Applied Biosystems 3500xl Genetic Analyzer. After comparation, SiFa™ 23 Plex Kit was determined as the most suitable amplification system for trace DNA. Eventually, the newly exploited trace DNA detection system was successfully implemented in the detection of fingerprints derived from glass surfaces with the five-seconds contact time. As a result, the DNA recovered from the fingerprints fluctuated approximately from 57.60 pg to 18.05 ng, in addition, over 70% of the total STR loci were detected in 75% of the fingerprint samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Chen
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Yuan Lin
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Huan Yu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yu Xue
- Bionewtech® Company., Ltd., Shanghai 201615, China
| | - Qiannan Xu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Institute of Forensic Medicine, West China School of Basic Medical Sciences & Forensic Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lei Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Ruxin Zhu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Anqi Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Medical College of Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Yue Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; School of Basic Medicine, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot 010030, China
| | - Ruocheng Xia
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Basic Medical Science, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou 325035, China
| | - Xiaochun Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Qi Yang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China; Department of Forensic Science, Medical School of Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Ruiyang Tao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China
| | - Bofeng Zhu
- College of Forensic Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University Health Science Center, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Chengtao Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China.
| | - Suhua Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Academy of Forensic Sciences, Ministry of Justice, Shanghai 200063, China.
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7
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Rogers MJ, McManus DP, Muhi S, Gordon CA. Membrane Technology for Rapid Point-of-Care Diagnostics for Parasitic Neglected Tropical Diseases. Clin Microbiol Rev 2021; 34:e0032920. [PMID: 34378956 PMCID: PMC8404699 DOI: 10.1128/cmr.00329-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Parasitic neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) affect over one billion people worldwide, with individuals from communities in low-socioeconomic areas being most at risk and suffering the most. Disease management programs are hindered by the lack of infrastructure and resources for clinical sample collection, storage, and transport and a dearth of sensitive diagnostic methods that are inexpensive as well as accurate. Many diagnostic tests and tools have been developed for the parasitic NTDs, but the collection and storage of clinical samples for molecular and immunological diagnosis can be expensive due to storage, transport, and reagent costs, making these procedures untenable in most areas of endemicity. The application of membrane technology, which involves the use of specific membranes for either sample collection and storage or diagnostic procedures, can streamline this process, allowing for long-term sample storage at room temperature. Membrane technology can be used in serology-based diagnostic assays and for nucleic acid purification prior to molecular analysis. This facilitates the development of relatively simple and rapid procedures, although some of these methods, mainly due to costs, lack accessibility in low-socioeconomic regions of endemicity. New immunological procedures and nucleic acid storage, purification, and diagnostics protocols that are simple, rapid, accurate, and cost-effective must be developed as countries progress control efforts toward the elimination of the parasitic NTDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine J. Rogers
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Donald P. McManus
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Stephen Muhi
- Victorian Infectious Diseases Service, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Catherine A. Gordon
- Molecular Parasitology Laboratory, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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8
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Giovanelli A, Grazinoli Garrido R, Rocha A, Hessab T. Touch DNA recovery from vehicle surfaces using different swabs. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:707-711. [PMID: 34725823 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Several methods of DNA collection are used in places or objects related to crimes, the most common being the use of swabs. However, it is known that the efficacy of touch DNA recovery can be affected by collection devices and surfaces. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of three different types of swab in recovering touch DNA collected from different parts of a vehicle. The following swabs were tested: PurFlock® swab (Puritan, USA), 4N6FLOQSwabs™ (Copan S.p.A., Italy), and cotton swab (Labor Import). The experiments were carried out in the same vehicle, using the gearshift knob, the parking brake lever, and the steering wheel as support for the collection of touch DNA. Swabs showed significant differences in the amount of DNA recovered (Hc = 53.52; p < 0.05) and in the rate of allele amplification (Hc = 24.3; p < 0.05). The results indicated a greater DNA recovery efficiency by PurFlock® swab, followed by cotton, and then 4N6FLOQSwabs™. However, there was no significant difference among the surfaces analyzed. PurFlock® swab was more efficient for recovering donor alleles than the others (cotton and 4N6FLOQSwabs™), especially for small DNA amounts. This swab was, therefore, suitable for collections in vehicles involved in crime. Furthermore, this study highlights the need to assess different materials and methods of collection of biological samples, considering collection, extraction, and amplification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Giovanelli
- Departamento de Polícia Técnico-Científica do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Pesquisa e Perícia em Genética Forense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Grazinoli Garrido
- Departamento de Polícia Técnico-Científica do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Pesquisa e Perícia em Genética Forense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alípio Rocha
- Departamento de Polícia Técnico-Científica do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Pesquisa e Perícia em Genética Forense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Hessab
- Departamento de Polícia Técnico-Científica do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto de Pesquisa e Perícia em Genética Forense, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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9
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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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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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11
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Quantifying visible absorbance changes and DNA degradation in aging bloodstains under extreme temperatures. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 318:110627. [PMID: 33296804 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Physicochemical property changes observed in a degrading bloodstain can be used to estimate its time since deposition (TSD) and provide a timestamp to the sample's age. Many of the time-dependent processes that occur as a bloodstain degrades, such as DNA fragmentation and changes in hemoglobin structure, also exhibit temperature-dependent behaviours. Previous studies have demonstrated that pairing high-resolution automated gel electrophoresis and visible absorbance spectroscopy could be used to quantify the rate of degradation of a bloodstain in relation to time and storage substrate. Our study investigates such trends with an added factor, extreme temperatures. Passive drip stains were stored in either microcentrifuge tubes or on FTA cards at either -20°C, 21°C or 40°C and tested over 11 time points spanning 15 days. For both storage substrates, the wavelength at maximum absorbance for the Soret band and the maximum absorbance of the Alpha band showed a negative trend over time suggesting that spectral shifts are informative for TSD estimates. The ratio of the maximum peak height for DNA fragments lengths of 500-1000 base pairs to 1000-5000 base pairs was the most informative DNA variable in relation to time for both substrates. Cross-validation suggested the appropriate fit of the models with the data and reasonable predictive ability. We integrated both DNA concentration and hemoglobin visible absorbance metrics using principal component analysis (PCA) into a single model. Adding the random effect of the donor to the PCA model accounted for a large portion of the variation as did storage method and temperature. Additionally, canonical correspondence showed that temperature corresponded differently to the response variables for FTA card and microcentrifuge tube samples, suggesting a substrate specific effect. This study confirms that pairing DNA concentration and hemoglobin's visible absorbance can provide insight on the effect of different environmental and storage conditions on bloodstain degradation. While the level of uncertainty surrounding TSD estimates still precludes its use in the field, this study provides a valuable framework that improves our understanding of variation surrounding TSD estimates, which will be critical to any eventual application.
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12
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Casework direct kit as an alternative extraction method to enhance touch DNA samples analysis. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2020; 47:102307. [PMID: 32447230 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2020.102307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Latent fingerprints are commonly found in crime scenes, and currently used in forensic analysis to obtain STR profiles from DNA recovered from finger contact. Analysis of STR profiles obtained from touch DNA has been very useful to elucidate crimes and the extraction method may be determinant for the recovery of genetic material collected from different surfaces. This study aimed to verify and compare the efficiency of two different extraction kits for processing touch DNA samples obtained from fingerprints deposited on computer keyboards, knife handles and exterior door handles and steering wheels of cars. One hundred and four experiments were conducted to simulate crime scenes and evaluate the efficiency of two extraction kits for touch DNA samples: the DNA IQ™ System and the Casework Direct Kit (both Promega Corporation). Each experiment was conducted with two individuals in order to obtain a mixture profile. The genetic material deposited was collected by double swab method (Sweet et al. 1997) and DNA quantification was conducted using Quantifiler Trio™ (ThermoFisher Scientific). Samples were amplified by PowerPlex® Fusion System kit (Promega). It was possible to obtain STR profiles for 32 (61.5%) out of the 52 extracted using DNA IQ and 51 (98.1%) out of the 52 extracted using the Casework Direct Kit. Samples extracted by DNA IQ had higher average of quantification values for long targets (>200bp) across all tested surfaces. That seems to be due to an incompatibility between the Quantifiler Trio and the Casework Direct Kit. Samples with positive quantification but without STR profile, as well as samples without quantification but with STR profiles were also observed. Statistical analysis showed that the Casework Direct Kit produced significantly more useful profiles than DNA IQ (p-value = 0.001), since these profiles had more STR markers with allelic correspondence to second donators present in the mixture. This study provides insights about the effect of different surfaces and extraction methods on recovery and generation of STR profiles. Limitations for the quantification step for these samples with a low quantity of DNA were highlighted as well. We concluded that the Casework Direct Kit was much more efficient for processing touch DNA samples than DNA IQ.
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13
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Sessa F, Salerno M, Bertozzi G, Messina G, Ricci P, Ledda C, Rapisarda V, Cantatore S, Turillazzi E, Pomara C. Touch DNA: impact of handling time on touch deposit and evaluation of different recovery techniques: An experimental study. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9542. [PMID: 31267029 PMCID: PMC6606590 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-46051-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
"Touch DNA" is DNA obtained from biological material transferred from a donor to an object or a person during physical contact. This particular kind of evidence could play an essential role in forensic laboratory work and is considered an important tool for investigators. Even though the principal aspects of "Touch DNA" have been extensively studied, to date, there are few reports in the research field of DNA retrieval from garments that have been worn. This study aimed to investigate the "handling time", analyzing particularly the minimum contact time required to deposit a sufficient amount of DNA on a garment to produce an interpretable profile of the "handler". Moreover, three different sampling techniques were compared ("dry swab", "cutting out", and "adhesive tape") with the aim of defining the technique that guarantees the best recovery of the three methods tested. Analyzing the data of this experimental model, a "handling time" of two seconds is enough to release sufficient DNA on to a garment to obtain a complete profile. Moreover, this study demonstrated that when targeting for foreign DNA, the sample area should be narrowed down as much as possible to the smallest area possible to maximize target DNA recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bertozzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Pietrantonio Ricci
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.,Institute of Legal Medicine, Università degli Studi Magna Graecia di Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Caterina Ledda
- Department "G.F. Ingrassia" - Section of Hygiene and Public Health, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Venerando Rapisarda
- Department "G.F. Ingrassia" - Section of Hygiene and Public Health, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Santina Cantatore
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies GF Ingrassia, University of Catania, Catania, Italy.
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Comte J, Baechler S, Gervaix J, Lock E, Milon MP, Delémont O, Castella V. Touch DNA collection - Performance of four different swabs. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 43:102113. [PMID: 31525724 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.06.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 05/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A collaborative study conducted by three police forensic units, a DNA laboratory, and a forensic academic institute was undertaken in order to compare the performance of four different swabs in controlled and quasi-operational conditions. For this purpose, a reference swab (Prionics cardboard evidence collection kit) currently used within the police forensic units and 3 challenger swabs (COPAN 4N6FLOQSwabs™ (Genetics variety), Puritan FAB-MINI-AP and Sarstedt Forensic Swab) were used for collecting DNA traces from previously used items (referred as "touch DNA" in this article) including on 60 collars, 60 screwdrivers and 60 steering wheels obtained from volunteers. For each comparison, the surface considered was divided into two equal components; one was sampled with the reference swab and the other with one of the three challenger swabs. This lead to a total of 360 samples. Conclusions were consistent within the four operational partners. From a practical point of view, the COPAN 4N6FLOQSwabs™ (Genetics variety) was judged the most convenient to use. Furthermore, it allowed the recovery of significantly more DNA from collars (0.65 vs 0.13 ng/μL) and steering wheels (2.82 vs 1.77 ng/μL), and a similar amount of DNA from screwdrivers (0.032 vs 0.026 ng/μL) compared with the Prionics reference swab. The two other challenger swabs provided results that were not significantly different from the reference swab, except for the Puritan swab, whose performance was significantly lower for steering wheels (0.37 vs 0.58 ng/μL). As part of a conservation study, 50 μL of a blood dilution (1/4 with PBS) was deposited on a total of 105 COPAN (Genetics and Crime Scene varieties), Prionics and Sarstedt swabs. They were stored within a cupboard at room temperature. The integrity of the recovered DNA was evaluated with NGM SElect™ DNA profiles after different time-spans ranging from 1 day to 12 months by comparing the height difference of the peaks occurring at the shortest and longest loci, respectively. DNA seemed to remain stable, except when using the COPAN 4N6FLOQSwabs™ treated with an antimicrobial agent (Crime scene variety), which resulted in significant DNA degradation. Following these tests, the COPAN 4N6FLOQSwabs™ (Genetics variety), a model with a desiccant, was selected for further testing in fully operational conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Comte
- Unité de Génétique Forensique, Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois et Université de Lausanne, Ch. de la Vulliette 4, 1000 Lausanne 25, Switzerland
| | - Simon Baechler
- Service forensique, Police neuchâteloise, Rue des Poudrières 14, 2006 Neuchâtel, Switzerland; Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, UNIL-Batochime, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; Laboratoire de Recherche en Criminalistique, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351 Bd des Forges, Trois-Rivières G8Z 4M3, Canada
| | - Joelle Gervaix
- Unité de Génétique Forensique, Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois et Université de Lausanne, Ch. de la Vulliette 4, 1000 Lausanne 25, Switzerland
| | - Eric Lock
- Departement de la sécurité et de l'économie, Police judiciaire, Section Forensique, Bd Carl-Vogt 17-19, 1205 Genève, Switzerland
| | - Marie-Pierre Milon
- Police de Sûreté, Brigade de police scientifique, Route de la Blécherette 101, 1014 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Delémont
- Ecole des Sciences Criminelles, Université de Lausanne, UNIL-Batochime, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Vincent Castella
- Unité de Génétique Forensique, Centre Universitaire Romand de Médecine Légale, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois et Université de Lausanne, Ch. de la Vulliette 4, 1000 Lausanne 25, Switzerland.
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15
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A review of trace “Touch DNA” deposits: Variability factors and an exploration of cellular composition. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 39:8-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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16
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McCord BR, Gauthier Q, Cho S, Roig MN, Gibson-Daw GC, Young B, Taglia F, Zapico SC, Mariot RF, Lee SB, Duncan G. Forensic DNA Analysis. Anal Chem 2019; 91:673-688. [PMID: 30485738 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.8b05318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce R McCord
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Quentin Gauthier
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Sohee Cho
- Department of Forensic Medicine , Seoul National University , Seoul , 08826 , South Korea
| | - Meghan N Roig
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Georgiana C Gibson-Daw
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Brian Young
- Niche Vision, Inc. , Akron , Ohio 44311 , United States
| | - Fabiana Taglia
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Sara C Zapico
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Roberta Fogliatto Mariot
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
| | - Steven B Lee
- Forensic Science Program, Justice Studies Department , San Jose State University , San Jose , California 95192 , United States
| | - George Duncan
- Department of Chemistry , Florida International University , Miami , Florida 33199 , United States
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17
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Cavanaugh SE, Bathrick AS. Direct PCR amplification of forensic touch and other challenging DNA samples: A review. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 32:40-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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