The typing of phosphoglucomutase in vaginal material and semen

[Detection of hereditary enzyme characteristics in vaginal secretion]

Upon investigation of semen- and blood-free vaginal swabs using starch gel electrophoresis the Phosphoglucomutase type was clearly identified in about 40%. Using cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis PGM could not be demonstrated. In all cases the results correspond with those obtained in blood. No relation was found between secretor type (determined in saliva) and PGM typing. In vaginal material the following could not be determined: Adenylatkinase (AK) using starch gel electrophoresis, Esterase D (EsD) using cellulose acetate membrane electrophoresis, and Glyoxalase I (GLO) using agarose gel thin-layer electrophoresis.

An 18-month evaluation of the Akron General Medical Center assault/rape protocol

A prospective study of the Akron General Medical Center rape protocol reviewed the examination and follow-up of 60 alleged sexual assault victims. Six of eight examining physicians thought the protocol was too thorough; five of eight believed it took too long. The average time required for an examination was 53 minutes. Three of six nurses experienced technical difficulties with the protocol. Saliva specimens were inadequate in seven cases, and two vaginal swabs contained insufficient material. Thirteen cases reached Summit County Grand Jury, where no medical/legal difficulties with the protocol were encountered during testimony.

The appearance and grouping of mixtures of semen and vaginal material

The grouping reactions of seminal stains and mixtures of semen and vaginal material have been collected from approximately 400 cases of sexual assault. These have been recorded together with details of the microscopic appearance of the stains and relevant case-work particulars. The success rate of some of the grouping systems used to type semen has been estimated. The detection of seminal ABO antigens and phosphoglucomutase (PGM) phenotypes in mixtures of semen and vaginal material has been discussed in relation to the proportions of the components of the stains.

The forensic identification of semen by isoelectric focusing of seminal acid phosphatase

An isoelectric focusing technique for the separation of acid phosphatases is described. The focusing patterns for semen and vaginal secretion are examined in detail and the technique is evaluated as a means of identifying and distinguishing between these body fluids and other materials of potential forensic interest. The method can reliably be used to diagnose the presence of semen in stains and in the post-coital vagina.