1
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Zacher M, van Oorschot RAH, Handt O, Goray M. Transfer and persistence of intruder DNA within an office after reuse by owner. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 73:103130. [PMID: 39217962 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The heightened sensitivity of DNA typing techniques, paired with the extensive use of trace DNA in forensic investigations, has resulted in an increased need to understand how and when DNA is deposited on surfaces of interest. This study focussed on the transfer, persistence, and prevalence of trace DNA in a single occupation of an office space by an intruder, when all contacts made during occupation and for the two hours prior and post occupation were known. The extent to which DNA could be recovered from contacted/not contacted surfaces was investigated. This study investigates the impacts of these movements and use of an office space when the duration of occupancy, surface contact histories and shedder status of participants are known. Contacts were documented and surfaces in the office space were targeted for sampling. Categories were set for target sampling that included different types of contact. Direct and indirect DNA transfer was detected in 55 % and 6 % of samples, respectively. Contactless DNA transfer was detected in 0.5 % of samples. The owner was observed as the sole/major/majority contributor in 77 % of the samples and as minor contributor in 10 % of samples. The intruder was observed as the sole/major/majority contributor in 14 % of samples and as the minor contributor in 16 %. An increased number of contacts increased the relative DNA contribution of the individual making the contact, however, not all observed direct contacts resulted in detectable DNA transfer. The outcome of this study will aid in better sample targeting strategies and contribute to the pool of data assisting in the development of activity level assessments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Zacher
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Victoria, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Oliva Handt
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Forensic Science South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mariya Goray
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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2
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Cahill A, Volgin L, van Oorschot RAH, Taylor D, Goray M. Where did it go? A study of DNA transfer in a social setting. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 73:103101. [PMID: 39096604 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 07/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
The sensitivity of DNA analysis has progressed to the point that trace levels of DNA, originating from only a few cells, can generate informative profiles. This means that virtually any item or surface can be sampled with a reasonable chance of obtaining a DNA profile. As the presence of DNA does not suggest how it was deposited, questions are often raised as to how the DNA came to be at a particular location and the activity that led to its deposition. Therefore, understanding different modes of DNA deposition, reflective of realistic forensic casework situations, is critical for proper evaluation of DNA results in court. This study aimed to follow the movements of DNA to and from individuals and common household surfaces in a residential premises, while socially interacting. This took place over an hour and involved four participants, with known shedder status, designated as visitors (a male and a female) and hosts (a male and a female), who engaged in the activity of playing a board game while being served food. During the study, the participants were instructed to use the toilet on a single occasion to assess the transfer of DNA to new and unused underwear that was provided. All contacts made by the participants in the dining room and kitchen were video recorded to follow the movements of DNA. Samples were collected based on the history of contact, which included hands, fingernails and penile swabs. Direct contacts resulted in detectable transfer (LR > 1) in 87 % (87/100) of the non-intimate samples and clothing. For surfaces touched by multiple participants, DNA from the person who made the last contact was not always detectable. The duration and number of contacts did not significantly affect the detection of the person contacting the item. On the other hand, presence of background DNA and participant's shedder status appear to play an important role. Further, unknown contributors were detected in the majority of samples. Finally, indirect transfer was observed on a number of occasions including co-habiting partners of guests who were not present at the study location. The results of this study may assist with decision making for exhibit selection or targeting areas for sampling within the home environment. Our findings can also be used in conjunction with previous literature to develop activity-level evaluations in such situations where the source of the DNA is conceded, but the mode of deposition is disputed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Cahill
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia
| | - Luke Volgin
- Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Victoria, Australia; School of Agriculture, Biomedicine and Environment, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Duncan Taylor
- Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide 5001, Australia
| | - Mariya Goray
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia, Australia.
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3
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Arsenault H, Kuffel A, Daeid NN, Gray A. Trace DNA and its persistence on various surfaces: A long term study investigating the influence of surface type and environmental conditions - Part one, metals. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2024; 70:103011. [PMID: 38324952 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2024.103011] [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: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 01/15/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
It is imperative for proper evidence triage that forensic biologists understand what kind of results to expect from certain evidence types submitted for DNA analysis. The persistence of trace DNA has been insufficiently investigated and there is little data available pertaining to the persistence of DNA in different environmental conditions and on different materials. The goal of this study is to increase the available data on this topic which would, in turn, help forensic biologists manage expectations when submitting specific evidence types for DNA testing. The work presented herein is a large-scale persistence project aimed to identify trends in the persistence of trace DNA and indicate how different environmental storage conditions and target surface characteristics influence the persistence of cellular and cell free DNA (cfDNA) over time. To eliminate variation within the experiment we used a proxy DNA deposit consisting of a synthetic fingerprint solution, cellular DNA, and/or cfDNA. Samples were collected and analysed from 7 metals over the course of 1 year (27 time points) under 3 different environmental storage conditions. The results of this experiment show that metal type greatly influences DNA persistence. For instance, copper exhibited an expected poor DNA persistence (up to 4 h) which a purification step did not help increase the DNA yield. Alternatively, DNA can persist for up to a year on lead at levels potentially high enough to allow for forensic DNA testing. Additionally, this study showed that the sample storage environment had no impact on DNA persistence in most cases. When considering DNA type, cfDNA was shown to persist for longer than cellular DNA and persistence as a whole appears to be better when DNA is deposited as mixtures over when deposited alone. Unsurprisingly, it can be expected that DNA recovery rates from trace deposits will decrease over time. However, DNA decay is highly dependent on the metal surface and extremely variable at short time points but slightly less variable as time since deposition increases. This data is intended to add to our understanding of DNA persistence and the factors which affect it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary Arsenault
- Leverhulme Research Center for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Smalls Wynd, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK.
| | - Agnieszka Kuffel
- Leverhulme Research Center for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Smalls Wynd, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Niamh Nic Daeid
- Leverhulme Research Center for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Smalls Wynd, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK
| | - Alexander Gray
- Leverhulme Research Center for Forensic Science, University of Dundee, Smalls Wynd, Dundee DD1 4HN, UK
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Onofri M, Tommolini F, Severini S, Gambelunghe C, Lancia M, Carlini L, Carnevali E. Trace DNA Transfer in Co-Working Spaces: The Importance of Background DNA Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2207. [PMID: 38396883 PMCID: PMC10888653 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042207] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of background DNA (bgDNA) can hinder the evaluation of DNA evidence at the activity level, especially when the suspect is expected to be retrieved due to their habitual occupation of the investigated environment. Based on real-life casework circumstances, this study investigates the prevalence, composition, origin, and probable transfer routes of bgDNA found on personal items in situations where their owner and person of interest (POI) share the same workspace. Baseline values of bgDNA were evaluated on the participants' personal items. Secondary and higher degree transfer scenarios of non-self DNA deposition were also investigated. The DNA from co-workers and co-inhabiting partners can be recovered from an individual's personal belongings. Non-self DNA present on the hands and deposited on a sterile surface can generate uninformative profiles. The accumulation of foreign DNA on surfaces over time appears to be crucial for the recovery of comparable profiles, resulting in detectable further transfer onto other surfaces. For a thorough evaluation of touch DNA traces at the activity level, it is necessary to collect information not only about DNA transfer probabilities but also about the presence of the POI as part of the 'baseline' bgDNA of the substrates involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Onofri
- Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy; (F.T.); (S.S.); (E.C.)
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (C.G.); (M.L.); (L.C.)
| | - Federica Tommolini
- Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy; (F.T.); (S.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Simona Severini
- Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy; (F.T.); (S.S.); (E.C.)
| | - Cristiana Gambelunghe
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (C.G.); (M.L.); (L.C.)
| | - Massimo Lancia
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (C.G.); (M.L.); (L.C.)
| | - Luigi Carlini
- Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Perugia, 06123 Perugia, Italy; (C.G.); (M.L.); (L.C.)
| | - Eugenia Carnevali
- Forensic Sciences Laboratory, Section of Legal Medicine, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Santa Maria Hospital, University of Perugia, 05100 Terni, Italy; (F.T.); (S.S.); (E.C.)
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5
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Taylor D, Kokshoorn B, Champod C. A practical treatment of sensitivity analyses in activity level evaluations. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 355:111944. [PMID: 38277913 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.111944] [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: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
Evaluations of forensic observations considering activity level propositions are becoming more common place in forensic institutions. A measure that can be taken to interrogate the evaluation for robustness is called sensitivity analysis. A sensitivity analysis explores the sensitivity of the evaluation to the data used when assigning probabilities, or to the level of uncertainty surrounding a probability assignment, or to the choice of various assumptions within the model. There have been a number of publications that describe sensitivity analysis in technical terms, and demonstrate their use, but limited literature on how that theory can be applied in practice. In this work we provide some simplified examples of how sensitivity analyses can be carried out, when they are likely to show that the evaluation is sensitive to underlying data, knowledge or assumptions, how to interpret the results of sensitivity analysis, and how the outcome can be reported. We also provide access to an application to conduct sensitivity analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duncan Taylor
- Forensic Science SA, GPO Box 2790, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; School of Biological Sciences, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia.
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Netherlands Forensic Institute, P.O.Box 24044, 2490 AA The Hague, the Netherlands; Forensic Trace Dynamics, Faculty of Technology, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Christophe Champod
- Faculty of Law, Criminal Justice and Public Administration, School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Lausanne-Dorigny, Switzerland
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6
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Sessa F, Pomara C, Esposito M, Grassi P, Cocimano G, Salerno M. Indirect DNA Transfer and Forensic Implications: A Literature Review. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:2153. [PMID: 38136975 PMCID: PMC10742555 DOI: 10.3390/genes14122153] [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: 10/05/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Progress in DNA profiling techniques has made it possible to detect even the minimum amount of DNA at a crime scene (i.e., a complete DNA profile can be produced using as little as 100 pg of DNA, equivalent to only 15-20 human cells), leading to new defense strategies. While the evidence of a DNA trace is seldom challenged in court by a defendant's legal team, concerns are often raised about how the DNA was transferred to the location of the crime. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the experimental work carried out focusing on indirect DNA transfer, analyzing each selected paper, the experimental method, the sampling technique, the extraction protocol, and the main results. Scopus and Web of Science databases were used as the search engines, including 49 papers. Based on the results of this review, one of the factors that influence secondary transfer is the amount of DNA shed by different individuals. Another factor is the type and duration of contact between individuals or objects (generally, more intimate or prolonged contact results in more DNA transfer). A third factor is the nature and quality of the DNA source. However, there are exceptions and variations depending on individual characteristics and environmental conditions. Considering that secondary transfer depends on multiple factors that interact with each other in unpredictable ways, it should be considered a complex and dynamic phenomenon that can affect forensic investigation in various ways, for example, placing a subject at a crime scene who has never been there. Correct methods and protocols are required to detect and prevent secondary transfer from compromising forensic evidence, as well as the correct interpretation through Bayesian networks. In this context, the definition of well-designed experimental studies combined with the use of new forensic techniques could improve our knowledge in this challenging field, reinforcing the value of DNA evidence in criminal trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
| | - Cristoforo Pomara
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
| | | | - Patrizia Grassi
- “Vittorio Emanuele” Hospital, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Cocimano
- Department of Mental and Physical Health and Preventive Medicine, University of Campania “Vanvitelli”, 80121 Napoli, Italy;
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (C.P.); (M.S.)
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7
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Fantinato C, Fonneløp AE, Bleka Ø, Vigeland MD, Gill P. The invisible witness: air and dust as DNA evidence of human occupancy in indoor premises. Sci Rep 2023; 13:19059. [PMID: 37925517 PMCID: PMC10625553 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-46151-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans constantly shed deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into the surrounding environment. This DNA may either remain suspended in the air or it settles onto surfaces as indoor dust. In this study, we explored the potential use of human DNA recovered from air and dust to investigate crimes where there are no visible traces available-for example, from a recently vacated drugs factory where multiple workers had been present. Samples were collected from three indoor locations (offices, meeting rooms and laboratories) characterized by different occupancy types and cleaning regimes. The resultant DNA profiles were compared with the reference profiles of 55 occupants of the premises. Our findings showed that indoor dust samples are rich sources of DNA and provide an historical record of occupants within the specific locality of collection. Detectable levels of DNA were also observed in air and dust samples from ultra-clean forensic laboratories which can potentially contaminate casework samples. We provide a Bayesian statistical model to estimate the minimum number of dust samples needed to detect all inhabitants of a location. The results of this study suggest that air and dust could become novel sources of DNA evidence to identify current and past occupants of a crime scene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Fantinato
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ane Elida Fonneløp
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Ecological and Evolutionary Synthesis (CEES), Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øyvind Bleka
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Peter Gill
- Department of Forensic Sciences, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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8
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Taylor A, Davidson G, Boyce M, Murphy C, Doole S, Rogers C, Fraser I. Background levels of body fluids and DNA on the shaft of the penis and associated underpants in the absence of sexual activity. Sci Justice 2023; 63:529-536. [PMID: 37453785 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2023.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
This study examines the background of blood, saliva, semen and autosomal DNA on penile swabs and underpants from males in the absence of recent sexual activity. Based on the data collected by the AFSP Body Fluid Forum, the results of this study show that; there is a very low expectation of detecting blood on penile swabs and male underpants; a low expectation of detecting saliva on penile swabs and male underpants; and spermatozoa would be expected in less than a quarter of penile swabs and three quarters of male underpants. As none of the samples had detectable levels of DNA which were suitable for meaningful comparison that did not match the donor or their partner, the expectation of detecting a DNA profile from the cellular background on penile swabs or underpants from a male who has not been involved in recent sexual intercourse is very low. The results of this study are extremely informative when evaluating the significance of blood, saliva, semen and DNA detected on the penile swabs and underpants of males in cases of alleged sexual assault.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Taylor
- Formerly of Forensic Science Northern Ireland, 151 Belfast Road, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim BT38 8PL, Northern Ireland
| | - G Davidson
- Cellmark Forensic Services, Buckshaw Link, Ordnance Road, Buckshaw Village, Chorley, Lancashire PR7 7EL, United Kingdom.
| | - M Boyce
- Formerly of Key Forensic Services, 207C Cavendish Place, Birchwood Park, Warrington WA3 6WU, United Kingdom
| | - C Murphy
- Department of Justice and Equality, Forensic Science Ireland, Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, Dublin 8, Ireland.
| | - S Doole
- Eurofins Forensic Services, Sir Alec Jeffreys Building, Peel Avenue, Calderpark, Wakefield WF2 7UA, United Kingdom.
| | - C Rogers
- SPA Forensic Services, Scottish Crime Campus, Craignethan Drive, Gartcosh G69 8AE. United Kingdom.
| | - I Fraser
- Forensic Science Northern Ireland, 151 Belfast Road, Carrickfergus, Co. Antrim BT38 8PL, Northern Ireland.
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9
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Arsenault H, Nic Daeid N, Gray A. A synthetic fingerprint solution and its importance in DNA transfer, persistence and recovery studies. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 6:100330. [PMID: 37249970 PMCID: PMC10209804 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100330] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A review of the literature on DNA transfer and persistence highlights many difficulties that are encountered when conducting research of this nature. One of the main problems highlighted repeatedly in the literature is the prevalence of inherent uncontrolled variation that accompany these studies, and in turn, the results obtained. This work aims to decrease the amount of intrinsic variability associated with DNA transfer and persistence experiments using a realistic proxy solution which is adaptable, of known composition, reproducible, and capable of being standardised. This proxy is composed of three parts: a synthetic fingerprint solution, cellular DNA, and cell free DNA. In this proof-of-concept study the proxy was tested with a small-scale DNA transfer and recovery experiment and the data obtained suggests that the use of a solution that mimics real fingerprint secretions, over an alternative (such as buffer or a body fluid), is important when working with non-donor provided trace DNA samples. This is because the DNA deposit solution likely impacts the transfer of DNA from fingers/hands to a surface as well as the ability to recover the biological material once deposited.
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10
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Kaesler T, Kirkbride KP, Linacre A. Persistence of touch DNA on commonly encountered substrates in different storage conditions. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 348:111728. [PMID: 37209547 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The persistence of touch DNA deposited after realistic handling of items typically encountered in forensic investigations has been the subject of few studies. Understanding the long-term persistence of touch DNA on different substrates in varying conditions can be central to the effective triage of samples for further processing. As the time between an alleged incident and collection of evidence may vary from a few days to years after an alleged event, this study assessed three different common substrates for the persistence of touch DNA over a time span up to 9 months. These substrates included fabric, steel, and rubber, each of which were handled in a way to imitate what may happen during a criminal act. The three substrates were exposed to two different environments for up to 9 months: inside a dark cupboard with no traffic to act as a control and an outside semi-exposed environment. Ten replicates from each of the 3 substrates were tested at 5 time points to create 300 samples. All samples were processed using a standard operating workflow to provide genotype data after exposure to different environments. It was found that the fabric samples produced informative STR profiles (defined here as 12 or more alleles) up to the 9 month timepoint for either environment. The rubber and steel substrates for the inside condition produced informative STR profiles up to the 9 month timepoint, but only generated informative STR profiles for the outside condition up to 3 and 6 months, respectively. These data add to our understanding of the external factors that affect DNA persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Todd Kaesler
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia.
| | - K Paul Kirkbride
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia
| | - Adrian Linacre
- College of Science & Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide 5042, South Australia
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11
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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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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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12
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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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13
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Atkinson K, Arsenault H, Taylor C, Volgin L, Millman J. Transfer and persistence of DNA on items routinely encountered in forensic casework following habitual and short-duration one-time use. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2022; 60:102737. [PMID: 35753208 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2022.102737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Empirical data obtained from controlled experiments is necessary to ensure that sound expert opinion evidence is provided regarding transfer and persistence of DNA in criminal proceedings. Knowledge in this area is also required at the outset of criminal investigations, to ensure that the proposed examinations can assist with answering questions that are relevant to forensic investigations. This study aimed to provide such data by examining the relative and absolute quantities of DNA deposited on items that are routinely submitted to the forensic laboratory by a habitual user, defined as someone who used it for ~1 week, and a subsequent one-time user. We found that the quantity of DNA deposited on routine household items spanned a broad range. The habitual user's DNA was detected on most items as the major donor, regardless of whether it was subsequently handled by another person for a short period of time. The one-time, short duration, user's DNA was detected on approximately two thirds of the items, albeit typically at quantities lower than the habitual user. Most of the household items we examined also had detectable DNA deposits from at least one other, unknown individual, typically in low quantities. Attempts to clean non-porous items with readily available household cleaners were partially effective but failed to completely eliminate detectable DNA from a habitual user in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Atkinson
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M3M 0B1, Canada
| | - Hilary Arsenault
- Centre of Forensic Science, Royal College Building, University of Strathclyde, 204 George Street, Glasgow, Scotland G1 1XW, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Taylor
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M3M 0B1, Canada
| | - Luke Volgin
- Forensic Science SA, PO Box 2790, Adelaide, SA 5000, Australia
| | - Jonathan Millman
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M3M 0B1, Canada.
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14
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Mögliche indirekte Übertragung von DNA-Spuren. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-022-00576-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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15
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Poetsch M, Markwerth P, Konrad H, Bajanowski T, Helmus J. About the influence of environmental factors on the persistence of DNA - a long-term study. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:687-693. [PMID: 35195781 PMCID: PMC9005405 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02800-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
DNA persistence and DNA transfer are important features in the assessment of a crime scene. The question how long DNA may persist at a certain location is similarly important as the one how the DNA has been transferred to this location. Depending on the source of the DNA as well as the conditions at the crime scene, the answer to this question is quite difficult. In this study, persistence of DNA from epithelial abrasions, blood cells, and saliva cells in indoor and outdoor scenarios has been investigated with regard to exposure time and exposure conditions including sunlight, temperature, and humidity in summer and winter scenarios. Overall, we generated 338 epithelial samples, 572 blood samples, and 572 saliva samples. A complete profile of the cell/DNA donor after exposure could be obtained in 47%, 65%, and 58% of epithelial abrasions, blood samples, and saliva samples, respectively. Regarding blood samples, there were no differences between supporting materials cloth and plastic; however, the percentage of complete profiles was higher for saliva samples on plastic and for epithelial samples on cloth. In indoor scenarios, complete profiles could be recovered from nearly all blood and saliva samples up to 9 months, whereas the amount of epithelial complete profiles already started to decline after 3 months. In outdoor scenarios, we observed a tipping point at an exposure time of 3 months. Blood and saliva samples collected after this period displayed complete profiles in less than 25% of samples. After 12 months, no outdoor sample showed a complete profile. The results of this study facilitate decisions on the relevance of recovered DNA from crime scenes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela Poetsch
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Germany.
| | - Philipp Markwerth
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Helen Konrad
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas Bajanowski
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Janine Helmus
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45122, Essen, Germany
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16
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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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17
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Shedder status: Exploring means of determination. Sci Justice 2021; 61:391-400. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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18
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Tanzhaus K, Reiß MT, Zaspel T. "I've never been at the crime scene!" - gloves as carriers for secondary DNA transfer. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:1385-1393. [PMID: 33948711 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02597-w] [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: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Over recent years, DNA profiling techniques have become highly sensitive. Even small amounts of DNA at crime scenes can be analysed leading to new defence strategies. At court, defence lawyers rarely question the existence of a DNA trace (source level) but challenge how the DNA was transferred to the scene (activity level). Nowadays, the most common defence strategy is to claim that somebody else had stolen the defendant's gloves and used them while breaking and entering. In this study we tested this statement. Using gloves made of different material (cloth, leather, rubber) and varying secondary transfer surfaces (wood, metal, glass), we simulated a few of the most likely transfer scenarios that occur during breaking and entering. While we detected the presence of DNA on the outside of 92 of the 98 gloves tested, we observed only one case of secondary transfer in a total of 81 transfer experiments. This data demonstrates that secondary transfer under conditions resembling realistic conditions is a very rare event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Tanzhaus
- State Department of Criminal Investigation in Thuringia, Kranichfelder Str. 1, 99097, Erfurt, Germany.
| | - Marie-Therese Reiß
- State Department of Criminal Investigation in Thuringia, Kranichfelder Str. 1, 99097, Erfurt, Germany
| | - Tom Zaspel
- State Department of Criminal Investigation in Thuringia, Kranichfelder Str. 1, 99097, Erfurt, Germany
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19
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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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20
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De Wolff TR, Aarts LHJ, van den Berge M, Boyko T, van Oorschot RAH, Zuidberg M, Kokshoorn B. Prevalence of DNA of regular occupants in vehicles. Forensic Sci Int 2021; 320:110713. [PMID: 33578178 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2021.110713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
People will deposit, redistribute and remove biological traces when they interact with their environment. Understanding the dynamics of trace DNA is crucial to assess both the optimal sampling strategy to recover traces and the relevance of DNA evidence in the context of a case. This paper addresses the prevalence of DNA of drivers, passengers, and unknown individuals in vehicles. Five vehicles with a regular driver only, and five vehicles with a regular driver and regular passenger have each been sampled at twenty locations. Based on the findings, we propose a sampling strategy for investigative purposes as well as for evaluative purposes when evaluating the findings given scenarios that propose the person-of-interest as either the driver or passenger in a vehicle.
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Affiliation(s)
- T R De Wolff
- Central Criminal Investigations Division, National Police of the Netherlands, The Netherlands; Crime Scene Support Team, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Netherlands
| | - L H J Aarts
- Division of Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Netherlands
| | - M van den Berge
- Division of Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Netherlands
| | - T Boyko
- School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Australia
| | - R A H van Oorschot
- School of Molecular Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia; Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Centre, Australia
| | - M Zuidberg
- Crime Scene Support Team, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Netherlands
| | - B Kokshoorn
- Division of Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Netherlands.
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21
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Investigation into the prevalence of background DNA on flooring within houses and its transfer to a contacting surface. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 318:110563. [PMID: 33168422 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
When sampling an item or surface for DNA, the collection of 'background' DNA (bDNA) from previous use poses an issue as it may impact the detectability of 'target' DNA and the interpretation of the DNA results given alleged activities. This study investigates the prevalence and transferability of bDNA on flooring surfaces within occupied houses under conditions similar to those that are encountered in casework. To assess bDNA presence and transferability, and the impact of how and who contacts the surface, areas used frequently and infrequently were targeted in the kitchen, living room, bedroom and bathroom of five houses, and two samples taken from each area; one directly from the floor and another from a cotton surface after contacting the floor. DNA was detected in 97 % (of 39) of samples collected directly from flooring, with 92 % providing interpretable profiles. DNA was detected in 85 % (of 39) samples collected from cotton swatches after contacting the floors, with 79 % providing interpretable profiles. The overall quantity, number of contributors, and likelihood of observing a major contributor was greater for samples obtained directly from the floor compared to the cotton. In 80 % of samples recovered from cotton, the quantity of DNA recovered was less than 20 % of that which was recovered directly from the floor. Overall, no trend was observed between the level of reported activity by occupants within areas of the same room and the quantity of DNA recovered directly from the flooring, the quantity of DNA transferred to and recovered from the cotton, or the number of contributors in resulting DNA profiles. In contrast, greater quantities of DNA were generally obtained from houses with a greater number of occupants. Profile composition was similar for samples collected from different areas of the same room, irrespective of the level of activity and from where the sample was obtained (i.e. directly from the floor or contacting surface). Occupants were often not detected in DNA profiles collected from rooms they were known to use and could be observed in profiles collected from rooms they reportedly did not use. The findings of this preliminary investigation provide an understanding of the complexities of transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA traces in houses occupied by multiple people and highlights the need to consider how and who uses a space, in the investigation of criminal activities where DNA traces are recovered from, or have been in contact with, flooring.
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22
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Investigating the position and level of DNA transfer to undergarments during digital sexual assault. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2020; 47:102316. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2020.102316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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23
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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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24
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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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25
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Gill P, Hicks T, Butler JM, Connolly E, Gusmão L, Kokshoorn B, Morling N, van Oorschot RA, Parson W, Prinz M, Schneider PM, Sijen T, Taylor D. DNA commission of the International society for forensic genetics: Assessing the value of forensic biological evidence - Guidelines highlighting the importance of propositions. Part II: Evaluation of biological traces considering activity level propositions. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2020; 44:102186. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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26
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Barcelos D, Funabashi K, Mazloum S, Fernandes M, Cardili L. STR technique for the detection of contamination by exogenous DNA in paraffin blocks and histological slides. SURGICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL PATHOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1186/s42047-019-0050-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractGastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) present different types of mutations that may or may not be sensitive to specific target therapy. The laboratory procedure required to prepare histological sections traditionally demands multiple steps, making the process prone to contamination by exogenous genetic material (DNA). An eventual contamination of the biological sample with exogenous DNA may jeopardize subsequent analysis of mutations. The Short Tandem Repeat (STR) technique is frequently used in forensic science fields and presents a potential application in surgical pathology, especially in situations of suspected sample exchange. In the present study, the objective is to verify the possible contamination by exogenous DNA in gastric GIST samples and to evaluate if the presence of contamination can interfere in the detection of the mutations of interest. We assessed eight gastric GISTs by the Sanger sequencing and STR sequence analyses. Seven samples presented more than one profile, a result interpreted as contamination. Our results indicate that exogenous DNA contamination occurred in most of the samples studied and that this was more frequent in samples obtained from the slides than those obtained from the block. The presence of contamination did not inhibit the detection of the mutations of interest for a specific target therapy. Furthermore, the histologic block revealed to be more advantageously when compared to the slide for molecular pathology diagnosis.
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27
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Goray M, Kokshoorn B, Steensma K, Szkuta B, van Oorschot RAH. DNA detection of a temporary and original user of an office space. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 44:102203. [PMID: 31751912 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a need to improve our awareness of the transfer, persistence, prevalence and recovery of DNA (DNA-TPPR) from items/surfaces, and within different spaces and circumstances, to assist sample targeting during collection and activity level assessments. Here we investigate DNA-TPPR within office spaces. Specifically, to what extent DNA, left by a temporary user of an office space that has been occupied by a regular user for an extended period, is detectable when the duration of their temporary occupancy and their general activities are known. Also, how readily the DNA of the regular user is still detectable after a known period of occupancy by another person, and to what extent DNA of others is present. Samples were collected from 18 core items/surfaces within eight single use office spaces that had been used temporarily by another occupant for 2.5-7 h. Four of these offices were within one forensic laboratory and four within another. Each lab collected and processed the samples to generate DNA profiles using their own set of methodologies. The owner/regular user of an office space was found to be the major/majority contributor to profiles from most items within the space, even after temporary use by another person. The detectability of the temporary occupier of an office space varied among offices and items. The temporary occupier was not observed on all items touched. In most instances, when detected, the temporary occupier was known to have touched the surface at some stage. Therefore, where one is seeking to collect samples that may detect a temporary user of a space, it is advisable to target several potentially touched sites. A difference in methodologies applied from collection through to profiling appears to impact DNA yields and profile types. Ascertaining the impact of using different methodologies on the profiles generated from collected samples, requires further research. More research is also needed to generate data to help determine frequency estimates for different types of profiles given different user histories of an item or space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Goray
- Biometric Division, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia.
| | - Bas Kokshoorn
- Division Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Kristy Steensma
- Division Biological Traces, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia; School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Roland A H van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist, Victoria Police Forensic Services Department, Macleod, Australia; School of Molecular Sciences, College of Science, Health and Engineering, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Australia
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28
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De March I, Taroni F. Bayesian networks and dissonant items of evidence: A case study. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 44:102172. [PMID: 31629186 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.102172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2019] [Revised: 08/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The assessment of different items of evidence is a challenging process in forensic science, particularly when the relevant elements support different inferential directions. In this study, a model is developed to assess the joint probative value of three different analyses related to some biological material retrieved on an object of interest in a criminal case. The study shows the ability of probabilistic graphical models, say Bayesian networks, to deal with complex situations, those that one expects to face in real cases. The results obtained by the model show the importance of a conflict measure as an indication of inconsistencies in the model itself. A contamination event alleged by the defense is also introduced in the model to explain and solve the conflict. The study aims to give an insight in the application of a probabilistic model to real criminal cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria De March
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Franco Taroni
- School of Criminal Justice, University of Lausanne, Switzerland
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29
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Opportunistic crimes: Evaluation of DNA from regularly-used knives after a brief use by a different person. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 42:135-140. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 07/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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30
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Sari D, Hitchcock C, Collins S, Cochrane C, Bruce D. Amylase testing on intimate samples from pre-pubescent, post-pubescent and post-menopausal females: implications for forensic casework in sexual assault allegations. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2019.1628303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Daliya Sari
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Lidcombe, Australia
| | - Catherine Hitchcock
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Lidcombe, Australia
| | - Sienna Collins
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Lidcombe, Australia
| | - Clint Cochrane
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Lidcombe, Australia
| | - David Bruce
- NSW Health Pathology, Forensic & Analytical Science Service, Lidcombe, Australia
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31
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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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32
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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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van Oorschot RA, Szkuta B, Meakin GE, Kokshoorn B, Goray M. DNA transfer in forensic science: A review. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2019; 38:140-166. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.10.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 128] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2018] [Revised: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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34
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Bowman ZE, Mosse KS, Sungaila AM, van Oorschot RA, Hartman D. Detection of offender DNA following skin-to-skin contact with a victim. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 37:252-259. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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35
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Evaluation of forensic genetics findings given activity level propositions: A review. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 36:34-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 06/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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36
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Hanssen EN, Liland KH, Gill P, Snipen L. Optimizing body fluid recognition from microbial taxonomic profiles. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 37:13-20. [PMID: 30071492 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2018.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In forensics the DNA-profile is used to identify the person who left a biological trace, but information on body fluid can also be essential in the evidence evaluation process. Microbial composition data could potentially be used for body fluid recognition as an improved alternative to the currently used presumptive tests. We have developed a customized workflow for interpretation of bacterial 16S sequence data based on a model composed of Partial Least Squares (PLS) in combination with Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). Large data sets from the Human Microbiome Project (HMP) and the American Gut Project (AGP) were used to test different settings in order to optimize performance. From the initial cross-validation of body fluid recognition within the HMP data, the optimal overall accuracy was close to 98%. Sensitivity values for the fecal and oral samples were ≥0.99, followed by the vaginal samples with 0.98 and the skin and nasal samples with 0.96 and 0.81 respectively. Specificity values were high for all 5 categories, mostly >0.99. This optimal performance was achieved by using the following settings: Taxonomic profiles based on operational taxonomic units (OTUs) with 0.98 identity (OTU98), Aitchisons simplex transform with C = 1 pseudo-count and no regularization (r = 1) in the PLS step. Variable selection did not improve the performance further. To test for robustness across sequencing platforms, we also trained the classifier on HMP data and tested on the AGP data set. In this case, the standard OTU based approach showed moderately decline in accuracy. However, by using taxonomic profiles made by direct assignment of reads to a genus, we were able to nearly maintain the high accuracy levels. The optimal combination of settings was still used, except the taxonomic level being genus instead of OTU98. The performance may be improved even further by using higher resolution taxonomic bins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirik Nataas Hanssen
- Department of Forensic Biology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0424 Oslo, Norway; Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0424 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Kristian Hovde Liland
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway; Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Peter Gill
- Department of Forensic Biology, Oslo University Hospital, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0424 Oslo, Norway; Department of Forensic Medicine, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 4950 Nydalen, N-0424 Oslo, Norway
| | - Lars Snipen
- Faculty of Chemistry, Biotechnology and Food Sciences, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway.
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Transfer and persistence of non-self DNA on hands over time: Using empirical data to evaluate DNA evidence given activity level propositions. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2018; 33:84-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2017] [Revised: 10/21/2017] [Accepted: 11/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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38
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Farash K, Hanson EK, Ballantyne J. Single source DNA profile recovery from single cells isolated from skin and fabric from touch DNA mixtures in mock physical assaults. Sci Justice 2017; 58:191-199. [PMID: 29685301 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The ability to obtain DNA profiles from trace biological evidence is routinely demonstrated with so-called 'touch DNA evidence', which is generally perceived to be the result of DNA obtained from shed skin cells transferred from a donor's hands to an object or person during direct physical contact. Current methods for the recovery of trace DNA employ swabs or adhesive tape to sample an area of interest. While of practical utility, such 'blind-swabbing' approaches will necessarily co-sample cellular material from the different individuals whose cells are present on the item, even though the individuals' cells are principally located in topographically dispersed, but distinct, locations on the item. Thus the act of swabbing itself artifactually creates some of the DNA mixtures encountered in touch DNA samples. In some instances involving transient contact between an assailant and victim, the victim's DNA may be found in such significant excess as to preclude the detection and typing of the perpetrator's DNA. In order to circumvent the challenges with standard recovery and analysis methods for touch DNA evidence, we reported previously the development of a 'smart analysis' single cell recovery and DNA analysis method that results in enhanced genetic analysis of touch DNA evidence. Here we use the smart single cell analysis method to recover probative single source profiles from individual and agglomerated cells from various touched objects and clothing items belonging to known donors. We then use the same approach for the detection of single source male donor DNA in simulated physical contact/assault mixture samples (i.e. male 'assailant' grabbing the wrist, neck or clothing from the female 'victim', or being in transient contact with bedding from the 'victim'). DNA profiles attributable to the male or female known donors were obtained from 31% and 35% of the single and agglomerated bio-particles (putative cells) tested. The known male donor 'assailant' DNA profile was identified in the cell sampling from every mixture type tested. The results of this work demonstrate the efficacy of an alternative strategy to recover single source perpetrator DNA profiles in physical contact/assault cases involving trace perpetrator/victim cellular admixtures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine Farash
- Graduate Program in Forensic Science, Biochemistry Track, Department of Chemistry, University of Central Florida, PO Box 162366, Orlando, FL 32816-2366, USA.
| | - Erin K Hanson
- National Center for Forensic Science, PO Box 162367, Orlando, FL 32816-2367, USA.
| | - Jack Ballantyne
- Graduate Program in Forensic Science, Biochemistry Track, Department of Chemistry, University of Central Florida, PO Box 162366, Orlando, FL 32816-2366, USA; National Center for Forensic Science, PO Box 162367, Orlando, FL 32816-2367, USA; Department of Chemistry, University of Central Florida, PO Box 162366, Orlando, FL 32816-2366, USA.
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Buckingham AK, Harvey ML, van Oorschot RA. Transfer of picked-up DNA to cotton plates. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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40
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Stella C, Mitchell R, van Oorschot R. Hand activities during robberies—Relevance to consideration of DNA transfer and detection. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2017.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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41
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McColl DL, Harvey ML, van Oorschot RA. DNA transfer by different parts of a hand. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL GENETICS SUPPLEMENT SERIES 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigss.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2022]
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42
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Investigation of DNA transfer onto clothing during regular daily activities. Int J Legal Med 2017; 132:1035-1042. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1736-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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43
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Helmus J, Zorell S, Bajanowski T, Poetsch M. Persistence of DNA on clothes after exposure to water for different time periods-a study on bathtub, pond, and river. Int J Legal Med 2017; 132:99-106. [PMID: 28963636 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1695-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 09/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
DNA traces on clothes of drowned bodies can provide important evidence for police investigations, especially in cases of suspected suicides or homicides. However, it is generally assumed that the water "erodes" a large part of the DNA depending especially on the exposure time. In forensic casework, DNA of suspects could be found frequently on clothes of drowned bodies after hours, sometimes days of exposure to water. This study was conducted to attempt a general statement about the conditions under which sufficient DNA remains can be expected for molecular genetic analysis. For this purpose, different scenarios were designed including DNA from three to five people, different types of waters (tap, pond, bathtub and river) for various time periods, with higher water pressure, different temperature, and soapy water (bathtub). Epithelial cells and blood cells were mounted on cotton cloths, and the DNA left after exposure was analyzed using the Powerplex® ESX17fast kit. In the indoor experiments, complete profiles could be seen even after 10 min rinsing of clothes under the tap and after 1 week in the bathtub. Outdoors, the results differed considerably between summer and winter as well as between pond and river. The longest exposure time still resulting in a complete profile was 2 weeks for a sample with skin cells in the pond during winter. In summer, the time period for erasing the bulk of DNA was 4 hours regarding epithelial samples and more than 1 day for blood samples in pond and river environments. All in all, the results demonstrate that DNA could still be recovered from clothes exposed to water for more than 1 week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janine Helmus
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Sarah Zorell
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Thomas Bajanowski
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45122, Essen, Germany
| | - Micaela Poetsch
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, D-45122, Essen, Germany.
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44
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Fonneløp AE, Ramse M, Egeland T, Gill P. The implications of shedder status and background DNA on direct and secondary transfer in an attack scenario. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2017; 29:48-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.03.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Revised: 03/15/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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45
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Meakin GE, Butcher EV, van Oorschot RA, Morgan RM. Trace DNA evidence dynamics: An investigation into the deposition and persistence of directly- and indirectly-transferred DNA on regularly-used knives. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2017; 29:38-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Revised: 03/10/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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46
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Szkuta B, Ballantyne KN, van Oorschot RA. Transfer and persistence of DNA on the hands and the influence of activities performed. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2017; 28:10-20. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2016] [Revised: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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47
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Helping to distinguish primary from secondary transfer events for trace DNA. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2017; 28:155-177. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2017.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Revised: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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48
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Persistence of touch DNA on burglary-related tools. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:941-953. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1551-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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49
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Buckingham AK, Harvey ML, van Oorschot RA. The origin of unknown source DNA from touched objects. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2016; 25:26-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2016.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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50
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Goray M, Ballantyne KN, Szkuta B, van Oorschot RA. Cale CM, Earll ME, Latham KE, Bush GL. Could Secondary DNA Transfer Falsely Place Someone at the Scene of a Crime? J Forensic Sci 2016;61(1):196-203. J Forensic Sci 2016; 61:1396-8. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariya Goray
- Victoria Police Forensic Services Department; 31 Forensic Drive Macleod Vic. 3085 Australia
| | - Kaye N. Ballantyne
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist; Victoria Police Forensic Services Department; 31 Forensic Drive Macleod Vic. 3085 Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health; La Trobe University; Bundoora Vic. 3086 Australia
| | - Bianca Szkuta
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist; Victoria Police Forensic Services Department; 31 Forensic Drive Macleod Vic. 3085 Australia
- Centre for Chemistry and Biotechnology; School of Life and Environmental Sciences; Deakin University; Locked Bag 20000 Geelong Vic. 3220 Australia
| | - Roland A.H. van Oorschot
- Office of the Chief Forensic Scientist; Victoria Police Forensic Services Department; 31 Forensic Drive Macleod Vic. 3085 Australia
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