Aumeer‐Donovan, S, Lennard, C & Roux, C 2009, 'Friction Ridge Skin: Fingerprint Detection and Recovery Techniques', Wiley.
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AbstractFingermarks are one of the most valuable types of physical evidence and there is a plethora of techniques that can be used to detect and enhance fingermarks. This entry presents an overview of the most common methods employed, and the sequences that can be applied for maximum exploitation of fingermark evidence.
Du Preez, C & Roux, C 2009, 'Tire Impressions', Wiley.
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Abstract The society we live in today relies heavily on automobiles for transport. This leads to many wheels on the road and inevitably where a crime is committed an automobile would have some sort of involvement with the crime itself, or the criminal himself. In 2002, the world passenger car fleet hit 531 million cars, with a quarter of these cars being in the United States 1. Of these, 72% of vehicles have four tires with the same tread and design and 14% have two pairs of tires with the same tread and design. Regarding the size, 97% of all cars have four tires with the same tread size, 1.6% has two pairs and 1.4% has three the same and one of different tread size 2. In the majority of cases in which an automobile is involved, the suspect used the automobile to drive to and from the crime scene. Tires are likely to leave some sort of pattern or trace evidence at the scene of crime. Tires are manufactured using natural and synthetic rubber. The rubber is then subject to an entire process in order to manufacture a tire 3. These tires are manufactured with a particular tread pattern to ensure maximum grip and purchase between the tire and the surface of the road. Many different tread patterns exist. Elemental pattern features include waves, lines, diamonds, zigzags, curves, blocks, etc. In addition to these manufacture characteristics, acquired characteristics such as wear and tear, cuts, small holes, etc., can be often present 4. Tire marks can thus be highly informative but unfortunately they are commonly overlooked. As a result, they are often destroyed before any potential exploitation could take place 5. This article presents the examination and value of tire marks in a forensic examination.
Luong, S & Roux, C 2009, 'Marks or Impressions of Manufactured Items', Wiley.
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Abstract Marks and impressions can be exploited by the investigator to extract information associated with the crime as part of the forensic investigation. The scope of this article covers fabric impression, which is any mark or imprint left by a material made by a fabric, including glove marks. This article describes the techniques and processes of examination, as well as interpretation and the evidential significance of such types of evidence.
Raymond, JJ, Roux, C & Walsh, SJ 2009, 'Friction Ridge Skin: Interaction between Fingerprint Detection andDNA/Biological Material', Wiley.
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AbstractThe DNA analysis of fingerprints and skin traces has become a routine component of forensic investigations. Research has found that most fingerprint enhancement techniques will not prevent subsequent DNA profiling of treated fingerprints or biological stains; however, the quantity of DNA recovered may be reduced. The exceptions include shortwave ultraviolet (UV) light, diaminobenzidine, and physical developer, which are likely to prevent DNA analysis of fingerprints. Sequencing of more than one fingerprint technique on an item is also likely to reduce the chance of successful DNA recovery. Guidelines are provided to assist the sequencing of fingerprint and DNA evidence.
Roux, C & Robertson, J 2009, 'Fibers', Wiley.
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AbstractOwing to their size and their particular nature, fibers probably constitute the ultimate example of trace evidence. Although fibers are easily transferred during a criminal event and a large pool of techniques can be applied for their characterization, the interpretation of an apparent “fiber match” remains one of the most difficult challenges in the forensic examination of trace evidence. However, our knowledge in this area has significantly improved over the last 25 years. Nowadays, a wealth of empirical data can be used by forensic scientists to determine the value of fiber evidence in the context of a case. In addition, logical and statistical frameworks can also assist them in this endeavor. This article presents a summary of the state of the art in this topic.
Benson, SJ, Lennard, CJ, Maynard, P, Hill, DM, Andrew, AS & Roux, C 2009, 'Forensic analysis of explosives using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) — Discrimination of ammonium nitrate sources', Science & Justice, vol. 49, no. 2, pp. 73-80.
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An evaluation was undertaken to determine if isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) could assist in the investigation of complex forensic cases by providing a level of discrimination not achievable utilising traditional forensic techniques. The focus of the research was on ammonium nitrate (AN), a common oxidiser used in improvised explosive mixtures. The potential value of IRMS to attribute Australian AN samples to the manufacturing source was demonstrated through the development of a preliminary AN classification scheme based on nitrogen isotopes. Although the discrimination utilising nitrogen isotopes alone was limited and only relevant to samples from the three Australian manufacturers during the evaluated time period, the classification scheme has potential as an investigative aid. Combining oxygen and hydrogen stable isotope values permitted the differentiation of AN prills from three different Australian manufacturers. Samples from five different overseas sources could be differentiated utilising a combination of the nitrogen, oxygen and hydrogen isotope values. Limited differentiation between Australian and overseas prills was achieved for the samples analysed. The comparison of nitrogen isotope values from intact AN prill samples with those from post-blast AN prill residues highlighted that the nitrogen isotopic composition of the prills was not maintained post-blast; hence, limiting the technique to analysis of un-reacted explosive material. Crown Copyright © 2009.
Benson, SJ, Lennard, CJ, Maynard, P, Hill, DM, Andrew, AS & Roux, C 2009, 'Forensic analysis of explosives using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) — Preliminary study on TATP and PETN', Science & Justice, vol. 49, no. 2, pp. 81-86.
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The application of isotopic techniques to investigations requiring the provision of evidence to a Court is limited. The objective of this research was to investigate the application of light stable isotopes and isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to solve complex forensic cases by providing a level of discrimination not achievable utilising traditional forensic techniques. Due to the current threat of organic peroxide explosives, such as triacetone triperoxide (TATP), research was undertaken to determine the potential of IRMS to differentiate samples of TATP that had been manufactured utilising different starting materials and/or manufacturing processes. In addition, due to the prevalence of pentaerythritoltetranitrate (PETN) in detonators, detonating cord, and boosters, the potential of the IRMS technique to differentiate PETN samples from different sources was also investigated. Carbon isotope values were measured in fourteen TATP samples, with three deï¬nite groups appearing in the initial sample set based on the carbon data alone. Four additional TATP samples (in a second set of samples) were distinguishable utilising the carbon and hydrogen isotopic compositions individually, and also in combination with the oxygen isotope values. The 3D plot of the carbon, oxygen and hydrogen data demonstrated the clear discrimination of the four samples of TATP. The carbon and nitrogen isotope values measured from ï¬fteen PETN samples, allowed samples from different sources to be readily discriminated. This paper demonstrates the successful application of IRMS to the analysis of explosives of forensic interest to assist in discriminating samples from different sources. This research represents a preliminary evaluation of the IRMS technique for the measurement of stable isotope values in TATP and PETN samples, and supports the dedication of resources for a full evaluation of this application in order to achieve Court reportable IRMS results.
Colella, M, Parkinson, A, Evans, T, Lennard, C & Roux, C 2009, 'The Recovery of Latent Fingermarks from Evidence Exposed to Ionizing Radiation', JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, vol. 54, no. 3, pp. 583-590.
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Continual reports of illicit trafficking incidents involving radioactive materials have prompted authorities to consider the likelihood of forensic evidence being exposed to radiation. In this study, we investigated the ability to recover latent fingermark evidence from a variety of substrates that were exposed to ionizing radiation. Fingermarks deposited on common surfaces, including aluminum, glass, office paper, and plastic, were exposed to doses ranging from 1 to 1000 kGy, in an effort to simulate realistic situations where evidence is exposed to significant doses of radiation from sources used in a criminal act. The fingermarks were processed using routine fingermark detection techniques. With the exception of glass and aluminum substrates, radiolysis had a considerable effect on the quality of the developed fingermarks. The damage to ridge characteristics can, in part, be attributed to chemical interactions between the substrate and the components of the fingermark secretions that react with the detection reagents.
Gueidan, C, Savić, S, Thüs, H, Roux, C, Keller, C, Tibell, L, Prieto, M, Heiðmarsson, S, Breuss, O, Orange, A, Fröberg, L, Wynns, AA, Navarro-Rosinés, P, Krzewicka, B, Pykälä, J, Grube, M & Lutzoni, F 2009, 'Generic classification of the Verrucariaceae (Ascomycota) based on molecular and morphological evidence: recent progress and remaining challenges', TAXON, vol. 58, no. 1, pp. 184-208.
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AbstractRecent molecular phylogenetic analyses and morphological studies have shown that it is necessary to revise the present morphology‐based generic delineation of the lichen family Verrucariaceae in order to account for evolutionary relatedness between species. Consequently, several genera were recently described or resurrected, and others were re‐circumscribed. As an additional step toward this generic revision, three new genera (Hydropunctaria, Parabagliettoa, Wahlenbergiella) and eleven new combinations are proposed here. A summary of the current taxonomic and morphological circumscription of all genera investigated so far is also presented. Several monophyletic groups are identified for which further taxonomical changes will be required, but for which taxon and gene sampling is presently viewed as insufficient. Clear morphological synapomorphies were found to be rare for newly delimited genera. In some cases (reduced morphology or plesiomorphism), even the combinations of slightly homoplasious phenotypic characters do not allow a clear morphological generic circumscription. Molecular features are envisioned as characters for delimiting these taxa.
Huttunen, J, Dawson, M, Roux, C & Robertson, J 2009, 'Physical evidence in drug intelligence Part 3: supercritical fluid extraction–high performance liquid chromatography of packaging tapes', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 41, no. 1, pp. 63-72.
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It may be desirable to compare samples of packaging tape or identify their specific brand and/or model based on analytical results. Such information may, for example, be used to infer or refute hypotheses of common origin for separately seized packages o
Klein, J-M, Hénault, M, Roux, C, Bultel, Y & Georges, S 2009, 'Direct methane solid oxide fuel cell working by gradual internal steam reforming: Analysis of operation', Journal of Power Sources, vol. 193, no. 1, pp. 331-337.
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Maynard, P, Jenkins, J, Edey, C, Payne, G, Lennard, C, McDonagh, A & Roux, C 2009, 'Near infrared imaging for the improved detection of fingermarks on difficult surfaces', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 41, no. 1, pp. 43-62.
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The near infrared spectral region offers advantages over the visible region in the detection of latent fingermarks due to increased contrast and decreased background luminescence. In this work, a chemical imaging system was used to image latent fingermarks in the near-infrared (NIR) region. A variety of porous, non-porous and semi-porous surfaces were tested using standard chemical and physical enhancement techniques. NIR dyes were also used to enhance latent marks. Both absorption and luminescence properties of the treated marks were examined over the spectral range 650-1100nm. Significant NIR absorption was found for ninhydrin, iodine/benzoflavone, physical developer, and powdering. NIR luminescence emission was found for DFO, ninhydrin with zinc salt post treatment, 1,2-indanedione and genipin. Significant NIR luminescence emission was found for cyanoacrylate fuming followed by staining with NIR dyes. In addition, metal oxide powders coated with NIR dyes were able to enhance fingermarks on a patterned and highly luminescent surface.
Nordin, A & Roux, C 2009, 'Proposal 1861 to conserve Aspicilia farinosa: author correction', MYCOTAXON, vol. 110, pp. 493-493.
Raymond, JJ, van Oorschot, RAH, Gunn, PR, Walsh, SJ & Roux, C 2009, 'Trace DNA success rates relating to volume crime offences', Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 136-137.
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In this study, 252 trace DNA samples (from handled surfaces) from 201 burglary, robbery and drugs cases were compiled to assess success rates and to interpret the value of trace DNA evidence in volume crime investigations. The average amount of DNA recovered from the trace DNA samples collected was 1.7 ng. Full or major (12 or more alleles) profiles were recovered from 14% of samples. Samples from firearms and burglary points of entry were the least successful. Mixtures were recovered from 21% of samples, presenting a case for the collection of more elimination profiles to enable more samples to be used for database purposes. The research highlighted the difficulties in collecting data relating to the success rates of samples. Computerised automation of this process would be extremely beneficial in the assistance of policy development, method application, training, and investigative usefulness.
Raymond, JJ, van Oorschot, RAH, Gunn, PR, Walsh, SJ & Roux, C 2009, 'Trace evidence characteristics of DNA: A preliminary investigation of the persistence of DNA at crime scenes', FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL-GENETICS, vol. 4, no. 1, pp. 26-33.
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The successful recovery of trace or contact DNA is highly variable. It is seemingly dependent on a wide range of factors, from the characteristics of the donor, substrate and environment, to the delay between contact and recovery. There is limited research on the extent of the effect these factors have on trace DNA analysis. This study investigated the persistence of trace DNA on surfaces relevant to the investigation of burglary and robbery offences. The study aimed to limit the number of variables involved to solely determine the effect of time on DNA recovery. Given that it is difficult to control the quantity of DNA deposited during a hand contact, human buffy coat and DNA control solution were chosen as an alternative to give a more accurate measure of quantity. Set volumes of these solutions were deposited onto outdoor surfaces (window frames and vinyl material to mimic burglary and `bag snatch offences) and sterile glass slides stored in a closed environment in the laboratory, for use as a control. Trace DNA casework data was also scrutinised to assess the effect of time on DNA recovery from real samples. The amount of DNA recovered from buffy coat on the outdoor surfaces declined by approximately half over two weeks, to a negligible amount after six weeks. Profiles could not be obtained after two weeks. The samples stored in the laboratory were more robust, and full profiles were obtained after six weeks, the longest time period tested in these experiments. It is possible that profiles may be obtained from older samples when kept in similarly favourable conditions.
Raymond, JJ, van Oorschot, RAH, Walsh, SJ, Roux, C & Gunn, PR 2009, 'Trace DNA and street robbery: A criminalistic approach to DNA evidence', Forensic Science International: Genetics Supplement Series, vol. 2, no. 1, pp. 544-546.
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It is now routine to detect trace DNA from handled objects, and with such low quantities of DNA the principles of criminalistics are now more relevant to biological evidence. This study aimed to provide data into the abundance, transfer and persistence of trace DNA, in a particular crime scenariostreet robbery. Items commonly stolen during a robbery (handbags and wallets) were swabbed to determine the background levels of DNA present. The likelihood of DNA transferring onto wallets during and after a robbery was investigated, as was the amount of handling time needed for the offender's DNA to become a major component in the recovered profile. A significant amount of DNA was recovered from wallets and bags in regular use, including small amounts of non-owner DNA. This indicates that background DNA may interfere with the recovery of offenders DNA. Profiles recovered from wallets stolen in a simulated robbery were in the majority mixtures, however the robber was a major component of the mixture or a single source profile in 40% of the profiles. The findings demonstrate that background data on the trace evidence characteristics of DNA will aid its interpretation and presentation in criminal trials.
Spindler, X, Stoilovic, M, Lennard, C & Lennard, A 2009, 'Spectral variations for reaction products formed between different amino acids and latent fingermark detection reagents on a range of cellulose-based substrates', Journal of Forensic Identification, vol. 59, no. 3, pp. 308-324.
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Ninhydrin, 1,2-indanedione, 1,2-indanedione-zinc, and l,8-diazafluoren-9- one (DFO) are reagents used worldwide for latent fingermark detection on paper substrates. Although research groups have concentrated on optimization studies and improvements in reagent formulations, mechanistic studies and comparisons against the different amino acid constituents in eccrine secretions are rare in the literature. It is known from studies undertaken in different geographic areas that these reagents produce varied results on different paper substrates under different environmental conditions; however, such observations have not been quantified. In this study, ninhydrin, indanedione, indanedione-zinc, and DFO reagents have been used to enhance deposits of nine major amino acids on three types of cellulose-based media: ashless filter paper, 10% recycled copy paper, and cellulose-coated TLC plates. Absorption and luminescence spectra were recorded for the resulting reaction products. The results provide some insight into the activity of these fingermark detection reagents with respect to the different amino acids present in eccrine deposits. References.
Ward, J, Gilmore, SR, Robertson, J & Peakall, R 2009, 'A Grass Molecular Identification System for Forensic Botany: A Critical Evaluation of the Strengths and Limitations*', Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 54, no. 6, pp. 1254-1260.
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Abstract: Plant material is frequently encountered in criminal investigations but often overlooked as potential evidence. We designed a DNA‐based molecular identification system for 100 Australian grasses that consisted of a series of polymerase chain reaction assays that enabled the progressive identification of grasses to different taxonomic levels. The identification system was based on DNA sequence variation at four chloroplast and two mitochondrial loci. Seventeen informative indels and 68 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were utilized as molecular markers for subfamily to species‐level identification. To identify an unknown sample to subfamily level required a minimum of four markers or nine markers for species identification. The accuracy of the system was confirmed by blind tests. We have demonstrated “proof of concept” of a molecular identification system for trace botanical samples. Our evaluation suggests that the adoption of a system that combines this approach with DNA sequencing could assist the morphological identification of grasses found as forensic evidence.
