Frick, AA, Spindler, X & Bleay, SM 2023, 'Chemistry of Fingerprint Residue' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, The Netherlands, pp. 521-529.
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The chemical composition of fingerprint residue is complex and highly variable. Several components are susceptible to chemical modifications following deposition, which can have a significant impact on fingerprint recovery. In more recent years, interest has increased significantly in the information that can be gained from the chemical constituents of latent fingerprints, both from the perspective of fingerprint detection, and the potential to gain further intelligence from this type of evidence.
Kelty, S, Green, N, Ribaux, O, Roux, C & Robertson, J 2023, 'Assessment of Occupational Stress' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, pp. 209-220.
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McNevin, D & Padula, M 2023, 'Serology: Blood' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, pp. 470-483.
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Nienaber, C, Forbes, SL, Connor, M, Wescott, DJ, Ward, J, Steadman, DW & Colman, KL 2023, 'Forensic Taphonomy' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, pp. 700-711.
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Popovic, A, Roux, C & Morelato, M 2023, 'Illicit Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Analysis' in Chemometric Methods in Forensic Science, Royal Society of Chemistry, pp. 39-64.
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Over the years, chemometrics has been increasingly proposed and used in the field of forensic science. This trend can be seen in the area of illicit drugs and pharmaceuticals. A variety of analyses (both qualitative and quantitative) are performed on illicit drugs and pharmaceuticals, leading to complex and often multi-dimensional datasets. The use of chemometrics, combined with the correct interpretation of the results, can provide additional information to aid decisions regarding crime disruption, prevention and reduction. Of particular interest in this chapter is the generation and analysis of drug profiles that often contain high-dimensional data that needs to be processed and interpreted in a systematic manner. Chemometrics can highlight patterns and trends in the data that relate to essential questions regarding classification and discrimination of specimens, for example classifying illicit drug seizures into chemical classes based on profile similarity or discriminating counterfeit pharmaceuticals from their authentic counterparts. This chapter provides a literature review of the most common chemometric methods used in drug profiling, with a particular focus on pattern recognition methods.
Roux, C & Jones, K 2023, 'Paper Analysis' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, pp. 88-99.
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Spindler, X & Frick, AA 2023, 'Visualization of Fingerprints' in Encyclopedia of Forensic Sciences, Third Edition, Elsevier, The Netherlands, pp. 811-820.
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Visualization of latent fingerprints is carried out using a variety of optical, physical, chemical and physico-chemical methods. The technique(s) applied typically depend on the porosity of the surface (substrate), beginning with optical techniques and proceeding to more elaborate or destructive methods as necessary. While a vast range of visualization methods are currently available for routine use, constant developments are required to meet ongoing challenges including the proliferation of new surface types, availability of key reagents and the needs of jurisdictions with limited resources.
Ward, J & Watherston, J 2023, 'Quantitative and qualitative assessment of DNA recovered from human skeletal remains' in Forensic Genetic Approaches for Identification of Human Skeletal Remains, Elsevier, UK, pp. 137-163.
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This chapter introduces DNA quantification and the importance of assessing the quantity and quality of DNA recovered from human skeletal remains to ensure optimal performance of downstream assays. Quantification methods and instruments commonly used by forensic laboratories are presented, with a focus on real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) techniques. The suitability of each qPCR method for determining the amount of amplifiable total human, male, and/or mitochondrial DNA, and for detecting the presence of co-extracted inhibitors or degraded DNA, is discussed. Finally, explanations on how this quantitative and qualitative sample information should be utilized to guide selection of genetic markers, DNA input amount, and procedural modifications for addressing sample degradation and inhibition are provided.
Ward, J, Watherston, J, Kahline, I, McMahon, TP & Edson, SM 2023, 'Genotyping and sequencing of DNA recovered from human skeletal remains using capillary electrophoresis (CE)' in Forensic Genetic Approaches for Identification of Human Skeletal Remains, Elsevier, UK, pp. 285-323.
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This chapter introduces capillary electrophoresis (CE) and how it is used for profiling DNA recovered from human skeletal remains. It will explain the most common fragment analysis and sequencing applications employed in forensic genetics, including the genotyping of autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs) and Sanger sequencing of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). The process of how PCR products are prepared, injected, separated, detected, and interpreted is discussed for each application. The CE platforms, chemistries, and analysis software commonly used by forensic laboratories are presented. Sample-specific CE artifacts often associated with skeletal samples are also detailed. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of CE will be highlighted given the growing popularity of massively parallel sequencing (MPS).
Watherston, J & Ward, J 2023, 'Autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) profiling of human skeletal remains' in Forensic Genetic Approaches for Identification of Human Skeletal Remains, Elsevier, The Netherlands, pp. 167-197.
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This chapter introduces autosomal short tandem repeats (STRs) and their use as the most popular genetic marker for human identification. It explains the characteristics of STR loci that make them suitable for forensic use and lists the core STR loci currently used for DNA profiling. Commercial STR multiplexes and thermal cycling instruments commonly used by forensic laboratories are presented, and the applicability of each for profiling of human skeletal remains is discussed. PCR conditions that can be modified to improve STR profiling results from challenging human skeletal samples are also detailed. Finally, technologies that facilitate high-throughput and/or rapid STR profiling for large-scale identification efforts are explored.
Abdullah, A, Szkuta, B & Meakin, GE 2023, 'Effect of swabbing technique and duration on forensic DNA recovery', Science & Justice, vol. 63, no. 3, pp. 343-348.
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Bordin, DM, Bishop, D, de Campos, EG, Blanes, L, Doble, P, Roux, C & De Martinis, BS 2023, 'Analysis of Stimulants in Sweat and Urine Using Disposable Pipette Extraction and Gas Chromatography Coupled to Mass Spectrometry in the Context of Doping Control', Journal of Analytical Toxicology, vol. 46, no. 9, pp. 991-998.
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AbstractUrine is initially collected from athletes to screen for the presence of illicit drugs. Sweat is an alternative sample matrix that provides advantages over urine including reduced opportunity for sample adulteration, longer detection-time window and non-invasive collection. Sweat is suitable for analysis of the parent drug and metabolites. In this study, a method was developed and validated to determine the presence of 13 amphetamine- and cocaine-related substances and their metabolites in sweat and urine using disposable pipette extraction (DPX) by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The DPX extraction was performed using 0.1 M HCl and dichloromethane:isopropanol:ammonium hydroxide (78:20:2, v/v/v) followed by derivatization with N-methyl-N-(trimethylsilyl) trifluoroacetamide at 90°C for 20 min. DPX extraction efficiencies ranged between 65.0% and 96.0% in urine and 68.0% and 101.0% in sweat. Method accuracy was from 90.0% to 104.0% in urine and from 89.0% to 105.0% in sweat. Intra-assay precision in urine and in sweat were <15.6% and <17.8%, respectively, and inter-assay precision ranged from 4.70% to 15.3% in urine and from 4.05% to 15.4% in sweat. Calibration curves presented a correlation coefficient –0.99 for all analytes in both matrices. The validated method was applied to urine and sweat samples collected from 40 professional athletes who knowingly took one or more of the target illicit drugs. Thirteen of 40 athletes were positive for at least one drug. All the drugs detected in the urine were also detected in sweat samples indicating that sweat is a viable matrix for screening or confirmatory drug testing.
Brockbals, L, Garrett-Rickman, S, Fu, S, Ueland, M, McNevin, D & Padula, MP 2023, 'Estimating the time of human decomposition based on skeletal muscle biopsy samples utilizing an untargeted LC–MS/MS-based proteomics approach', Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, vol. 415, no. 22, pp. 5487-5498.
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AbstractAccurate estimation of the postmortem interval (PMI) is crucial in forensic medico-legal investigations to understand case circumstances (e.g. narrowing down list of missing persons or include/exclude suspects). Due to the complex decomposition chemistry, estimation of PMI remains challenging and currently often relies on the subjective visual assessment of gross morphological/taphonomic changes of a body during decomposition or entomological data. The aim of the current study was to investigate the human decomposition process up to 3 months after death and propose novel time-dependent biomarkers (peptide ratios) for the estimation of decomposition time. An untargeted liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry–based bottom-up proteomics workflow (ion mobility separated) was utilized to analyse skeletal muscle, collected repeatedly from nine body donors decomposing in an open eucalypt woodland environment in Australia. Additionally, general analytical considerations for large-scale proteomics studies for PMI determination are raised and discussed. Multiple peptide ratios (human origin) were successfully proposed (subgroups < 200 accumulated degree days (ADD), < 655 ADD and < 1535 ADD) as a first step towards generalised, objective biochemical estimation of decomposition time. Furthermore, peptide ratios for donor-specific intrinsic factors (sex and body mass) were found. Search of peptide data against a bacterial database did not yield any results most likely due to the low abundance of bacterial proteins within the collected human biopsy samples. For comprehensive time-dependent modelling, increased donor number would be necessary along with targeted confirmation of proposed peptides. Overall, the presented results provide valuable information that aid in the understanding and estimation of the human decomposition processes. Graphical Abstract
Brown, A, Lamb, E, Deo, A, Pasin, D, Liu, T, Zhang, W, Su, S & Ueland, M 2023, 'The use of novel electronic nose technology to locate missing persons for criminal investigations', iScience, vol. 26, no. 4, pp. 106353-106353.
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The search for missing persons is a major challenge for investigations involving presumed deceased individuals. Currently, the most effective tool is the use of cadaver-detection dogs; however, they are limited by their cost, limited operation times, and lack of granular information reported to the handler. Thus, there is a need for discrete, real-time detection methods that provide searchers explicit information as to whether human-decomposition volatiles are present. A novel e-nose (NOS.E) developed in-house was investigated as a tool to detect a surface-deposited individual over time. The NOS.E was able to detect the victim throughout most stages of decomposition and was influenced by wind parameters. The sensor responses from different chemical classes were compared to chemical class abundance confirmed by two-dimensional gas chromatography - time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The NOS.E demonstrated its ability to detect surface-deposited individuals days and weeks since death, demonstrating its utility as a detection tool.
Brown, AO, Frankham, GJ, Stuart, BH & Ueland, M 2023, 'Assessing the impact of habitat and captivity status on volatilome profiles of the illegally traded shingleback, Tiliqua rugosa', Forensic Science International: Animals and Environments, vol. 4, pp. 100071-100071.
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Brown, AO, Green, PJ, Frankham, GJ, Stuart, BH & Ueland, M 2023, 'Insights into the Effects of Violating Statistical Assumptions for Dimensionality Reduction for Chemical “-omics” Data with Multiple Explanatory Variables', ACS Omega, vol. 8, no. 24, pp. 22042-22054.
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Brown, AO, Ueland, M, Stuart, BH & Frankham, GJ 2023, 'A forensically validated genetic toolkit for the species and lineage identification of the highly trafficked shingleback lizard (Tiliqua rugosa)', Forensic Science International: Genetics, vol. 62, pp. 102784-102784.
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Shingleback lizards (Tiliqua rugosa) are among the most trafficked native fauna from Australia in the illegal pet trade. There are four morphologically recognised subspecies of shinglebacks, all with differing overseas market values. Shinglebacks from different geographic locales are often trafficked and housed together, which may complicate identifying the State jurisdiction where the poaching event occurred. Additionally, shinglebacks can be housed and trafficked with other species within the same genus, which may complicate DNA analysis, especially in scenarios where indirect evidence (e.g. swabs, faeces) is taken for analysis. In this study, a forensic genetic toolkit was designed and validated to target shingleback DNA for species identification and geographic origin. To do this, field sampling across Australia was conducted to expand the phylogeographic sampling of shinglebacks across their species range and include populations suspected to be poaching hotspots. A commonly used universal reptile primer set (ND4/LEU) was then validated for use in forensic casework related to the genus Tiliqua. Two additional ND4 primer sets were designed and validated. The first primer set was designed and demonstrated to preferentially amplify an ∼510 bp region of the genus Tiliqua over other reptiles and builds on existing data to expand the available phylogeographic database. The second primer set was designed and demonstrated to solely amplify an ∼220 bp region of T. rugosa ND4 over any other reptile species. Through the validation process, all primers were demonstrated to amplify T. rugosa DNA from a variety of sample types (e.g. degraded, low quality and mixed). Two of the primer sets were able to distinguish the genetic lineage of T. rugosa from the phylogeographic database. This work provides the first forensically validated toolkit and phylogeographic genetic database for Squatmate lizards.
Bubathi, V, Leslie, L, Speer, M, Hartigan, J, Wang, J & Gupta, A 2023, 'Impact of Accelerated Climate Change on Maximum Temperature Differences between Western and Coastal Sydney', Climate, vol. 11, no. 4, pp. 76-76.
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The aims of this study are to assess the impacts of accelerated climate change on summer maximum temperatures since the early 1990s in the Australian city of Sydney’s eastern coastal and western inland suburbs. Western Sydney currently experiences far more intense summer (December–March) heat waves than coastal Sydney, with maximum temperatures exceeding those of coastal Sydney by up to 10 °C. Aside from increased bushfire danger, extreme temperature days pose health and socio-economic threats to western Sydney. Permutation tests of consecutive summer periods, 1962–1991 and 1992–2021, are employed to determine the differential climate change impacts on maximum summer temperatures at two locations: Sydney and Richmond, representative of eastern and western Sydney, respectively. Attribution of observed maximum summer temperature trends in Sydney and Richmond was performed using machine learning techniques applied to known Australian region oceanic and atmospheric climate drivers. It was found that there is a marked disparity in the percentage of summer days above the 95th percentile during the accelerated climate change period (1992–2021) between Richmond (+35%) and Sydney (−24%), relative to 1962–1991. The climate drivers detected as attributes were similar in both Sydney and Richmond, but, unsurprisingly, Sydney was more affected than Richmond by the oceanic climate drivers.
Clover Ree, L, Chadwick, S & Moret, S 2023, 'Comparison of carbon and iron oxide based powder suspension formulations', Forensic Science International, vol. 347, pp. 111685-111685.
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Collins, S, Maestrini, L, Hui, FKC, Stuart, B & Ueland, M 2023, 'The use of generalized linear mixed models to investigate postmortem lipids in textiles', iScience, vol. 26, no. 8, pp. 107371-107371.
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Collins, S, Stuart, B & Ueland, M 2023, 'Anatomical location dependence of human decomposition products in clothing', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 55, no. 3, pp. 363-375.
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The human decomposition process results in the formation of particular biological compounds, the chemistry of which provides valuable insight into the nature of a death. This paper reports the findings of a study of the decomposition process of clothed human remains at the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER). An investigation into how decomposition products appear in opposing anatomical regions, namely the anterior and posterior regions of the body, has been carried out. The chemistry of the lipid and protein components and their by-products formed in the first months of decomposition were examined using infrared spectroscopy. The study has demonstrated a clear difference in the pattern of formation of human decomposition products absorbed by textiles located in the anterior versus posterior regions. The time of appearance of established compounds at recognized stages of human decomposition varies notably depending on the anatomical location of the clothing.
Collins, S, Stuart, B & Ueland, M 2023, 'The use of lipids from textiles as soft-tissue biomarkers of human decomposition', Forensic Science International, vol. 343, pp. 111547-111547.
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The ability to determine the post-mortem interval (PMI) in complex death investigations involving human remains, is a vital task faced by law enforcement. Establishing the PMI in a case can significantly aid in the reconstruction of forensically relevant events surrounding that death. However, due to the complexities surrounding the decomposition of human remains, the determination of the PMI still remains a challenge in some cases. Thus, the identification of biomarkers of human decomposition are an emerging, and essential, area of research. Previous studies have also demonstrated great success in the use of textiles as a host to indirectly capture decomposition by-products. This study reports the successful adaptation and optimisation of an analytical chemical workflow for the targeted analysis of lipids from textiles associated with decomposing human remains using gas-chromatography (GC) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). This study discusses novel information regarding the complex challenges of matrix effects observed with decomposition samples. In addition, the first lipid profiles obtained from textiles associated with two decomposing human donors from the Australian Facility for Taphonomic Experimental Research (AFTER) using GC-MS/MS are presented.
Dahal, A, McNevin, D, Chikhani, M & Ward, J 2023, 'An interdisciplinary forensic approach for human remains identification and missing persons investigations', WIREs Forensic Science, vol. 5, no. 4.
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AbstractThe resolution of unidentified human remains (UHR) and long‐term missing persons (LTMP) cases is paramount for administrative, legal, and humanitarian reasons. There are various forensic profiling methods for human identification; however, their utility is dependent on several factors. First, UHR can be found in different stages of decomposition, so the availability and diversity of post‐mortem (PM) information will differ. Second, the availability and totality of the LTMP's ante‐mortem (AM) information will differ. Therefore, the suitability of existing methods will be dependent on the quality and quantity of PM and/or AM data available for comparison. Visual recognition is the simplest and quickest method, but typically not practiced or possible, owing to the altered, fragmented, or skeletonized state of UHR. Primary forensic profiling methods involve the comparison of fingerprint, dental, DNA, and medical data. Secondary forensic profiling methods from anthropology, radiology, geochemistry, and anatomy disciplines can provide supplementary evidence to support comparative identification approaches. Emerging forensic molecular technologies such as genomics, microbiomics, epigenetics, and proteomics, together with individual digital footprints from personal devices, offer new investigative leads for establishing identity. However, despite the success of these individual methods, their limitations must be considered when used in isolation. Through the development of a guiding forensic examination framework, this review endorses an interdisciplinary response to unidentified and missing persons investigations, where various forensic specialists collaboratively examine UHR using a suite of contemporary forensic profiling methods to produce multiple and/or different lines of evidence to link them effectively, efficiently, comprehensively, and systematically to LTMP.This article is categorized under:
Devlin, C, Chadwick, S, Moret, S, Baechler, S, Raymond, J & Morelato, M 2023, 'The potential of using the forensic profiles of Australian fraudulent identity documents to assist intelligence-led policing', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 55, no. 6, pp. 720-730.
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Dupouy, DLM, Bolton, MS, Berry, TP, Raymond, J & Meakin, GE 2023, 'Saw marks in bone: A preliminary empirical study to inform decision making and best practice', Forensic Science International, vol. 353, pp. 111857-111857.
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Hanna, T, Chadwick, S & Moret, S 2023, 'Fingermark quality assessment, a transversal study of subjective quality scales', Forensic Science International, vol. 350, pp. 111783-111783.
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Heng, WS, Jadhav, SR, Ueland, M & Shellie, RA 2023, 'Rapid detection of Escherichia coli in dairy milk using static headspace-comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography', Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, vol. 415, no. 13, pp. 2535-2545.
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Lau, V, Spindler, X & Roux, C 2023, 'The transfer of fibres between garments in a choreographed assault scenario', Forensic Science International, vol. 349, pp. 111746-111746.
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Our fundamental understanding of fibre transfer remains based on early seminal transfer studies that were largely mechanical simulations. However, transfer events in the real world are uncontrolled in nature. This study takes a novel approach to address this discrepancy, with skilled jiu-jitsu practitioners performing a choreographed 'standard' assault scenario to investigate the transfer of fibres between a cotton T-shirt and cotton/polyester hoody. Garments were collected immediately after the scenario and examined for the number, length and zonal distribution of transferred fibres. It was observed that cotton transferred the most fibres, on average twice as many from blended hoodies than T-shirts; whilst polyester transferred the least. Shorter fibres transferred and were recovered more readily than longer fibres; however, it was more likely to recover polyester fibres> 5 mm. The number and length of fibres transferred from the attacker's garment mainly depended on the construction of the donor textile (including sheddability) and properties of the fibres. Conversely, properties of the recipient textile were more significant factors when considering transfer from the victim's garment. Location of recovered fibres was found to be dependent on the wearer's role, but generally, upper zones and sleeves of both garments were most populated. Overall, these results will contribute to grow our current knowledge base regarding fibre transfer between donor and recipient textiles in a common assault situation. This will ultimately aid experts support evaluation with regards to competing hypotheses such as in a Bayesian framework.
Lin, J, Yun, K, Sun, Q, Xiang, P, Wu, L, Yang, S, Dun, J, Fu, S & Chen, H 2023, 'How to sample a seizure plant: the role of the visualization spatial distribution analysis of Lophophora williamsii as an example', Forensic Sciences Research, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 140-151.
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Abstract Natural compounds in plants are often unevenly distributed, and determining the best sampling locations to obtain the most representative results is technically challenging. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) can provide the basis for formulating sampling guideline. For a succulent plant sample, ensuring the authenticity and in situ nature of the spatial distribution analysis results during MSI analysis also needs to be thoroughly considered. In this study, we developed a well-established and reliable MALDI-MSI method based on preservation methods, slice conditions, auxiliary matrices, and MALDI parameters to detect and visualize the spatial distribution of mescaline in situ in Lophophora williamsii. The MALDI-MSI results were validated using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Low-temperature storage at −80°C and drying of “bookmarks” were the appropriate storage methods for succulent plant samples and their flower samples, and cutting into 40 μm thick sections at −20°C using gelatin as the embedding medium is the appropriate sectioning method. The use of DCTB (trans-2-[3-(4-tert-butylphenyl)-2-methyl-2-propenylidene]malononitrile) as an auxiliary matrix and a laser intensity of 45 are favourable MALDI parameter conditions for mescaline analysis. The region of interest semi-quantitative analysis revealed that mescaline is concentrated in the epidermal tissues of L. williamsii as well as in the meristematic tissues of the crown. The study findings not only help to provide a basis for determining the best sampling locations for mescaline in L. williamsii, but they also provide a reference for the optimization of storage and preparation conditions for raw plant organs before MALDI detection. ...
Ma, H, Hu, M, Zhang, C, Jia, J, Fu, S, Wei, Z & Yun, K 2023, 'HPLC-MS/MS determination and the postmortem distribution or postmortem redistribution of paraquat and its metabolites in four fatal intoxication cases', Forensic Science International, vol. 345, pp. 111606-111606.
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Machungo, CW, Berna, AZ, McNevin, D, Wang, R, Harvey, J & Trowell, S 2023, 'Evaluation of performance of metal oxide electronic nose for detection of aflatoxin in artificially and naturally contaminated maize', Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, vol. 381, pp. 133446-133446.
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Mercieca, AL, Fursman, HC, Alonzo, M, Chadwick, S & McDonagh, AM 2023, 'Organic impurity profiling of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) synthesised from helional', Forensic Science International, vol. 350, pp. 111788-111788.
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Minzière, VR, Gassner, A, Gallidabino, M, Roux, C & Weyermann, C 2023, 'The relevance of gunshot residues in forensic science', WIREs Forensic Science, vol. 5, no. 1.
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AbstractGunshot residues (GSR) are routinely exploited by forensic scientists in the investigation of firearm‐related events. While many new techniques are daily reported in the literature for the analysis of GSR, there is still a significant lack of data on the transfer, persistence, and prevalence of GSR. Such fundamental knowledge is essential to fully exploit the information potential of GSR for investigation or in Court. This article provides an overview of the relevant questions related to GSR, more particularly to infer about the trace's origin (i.e., is it from a firearm discharge?) and the activity that caused transfer (e.g., primary, secondary, or subsequent transfer). GSR production and composition will be briefly described, considering both inorganic and organic components. Then, the available knowledge about the primary transfer, the secondary transfer, and the persistence of GSR will be outlined, as well as the prevalence (background level) of the targeted elements and/or compounds in the environment, more particularly on the hands of people unrelated to firearm incidents. Finally, the methods developed for the collection, analysis, and interpretation of GSR will be discussed. A holistic approach combining fundamental forensic science knowledge about GSR transfer, persistence, and prevalence together with other available information is discussed as a path forward to increase the relevance and value of the GSR trace in practice.This article is categorized under:Crime Scene Investigation > From Traces to Intelligence and EvidenceForensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Trace EvidenceForensic Chemistry and Trace Evidence > Explosive Analysis
Moraleda Merlo, AB, Roux, C, Bécue, A & Weyermann, C 2023, 'A comparison of the natural and groomed fingermark lipid composition of different donors using GC/MS', Forensic Science International, vol. 348, pp. 111709-111709.
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Nielsen, S, Barratt, M, Hiley, S, Bartlett, M, Latimer, J, Jauncey, M, Roux, C, Morelato, M, Clark, N, Kowalski, M, Gilbert, M, Francia, L, Shipton, A, Gerostamoulos, D, Glowacki, L & Lam, T 2023, 'Monitoring for fentanyl within Australian supervised injecting facilities: Findings from feasibility testing of novel methods and collaborative workshops', International Journal of Drug Policy, vol. 115, pp. 104015-104015.
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Prasad, E, Atwood, L, van Oorschot, RAH, McNevin, D, Barash, M & Raymond, J 2023, 'Trace DNA recovery rates from firearms and ammunition as revealed by casework data', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. 55, no. 1, pp. 73-88.
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Russell, K, Kelty, SF & Scudder, N 2023, 'Public and family support and concerns for providing DNA to law enforcement in long-term missing person cases', Science & Justice, vol. 63, no. 2, pp. 149-157.
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Russell, K, Kelty, SF & Scudder, N 2023, 'Public/family concerns for providing DNA in missing persons cases: Paper 2: The main concerns raised and implications for policing policy', Science & Justice, vol. 63, no. 6, pp. 671-679.
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Saunders, M, Gupta, A, Roux, C & Spindler, X 2023, 'The impact of substrate dampness on the transfer of glass fragments to upper garments when breaking windows', Forensic Science International, vol. 350, pp. 111791-111791.
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Steiner, R, Moret, S & Roux, C 2023, 'Production of artificial fingermarks. Part II – The use of a modified inkjet printer for the deposition of synthetic secretions', Forensic Science International, vol. 350, pp. 111804-111804.
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Watherston, J & McNevin, D 2023, 'Skull and long bones – Forensic DNA techniques for historic shipwreck human remains', Australian Journal of Forensic Sciences, vol. ahead-of-print, no. ahead-of-print, pp. 1-25.
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Human remains have been recovered from a number of historic shipwrecks and their associated sites, often hundreds of years post-mortem. While remains of victims who have fled following wrecking can be subject to a range of environmental exposures, human remains in marine environments are subject to unique decomposition processes, faunal predation and impacts on DNA. Researchers in museums and academic institutions holding historic shipwreck remains have applied a plethora of scientific testing methods to extract information from artefacts and shipwreck remains. Specialist forensic DNA techniques, often adapted from ancient and archaeological DNA methods, are designed to maximize DNA recovery, and advances in technology and forensic biology have increased options for genotyping compromised human skeletal samples. A vast array of new genetic markers can now be targeted for interrogation to reveal externally visible characteristics, biogeographical ancestry or extended genetic relatives of victims. Some of these techniques have already been applied to historic shipwreck remains. This paper reviews current and emerging forensic DNA techniques available for recovering and revealing genetic information from historic shipwreck remains. It aims to direct investigators conducting genetic testing on historic shipwreck human remains to forensic DNA techniques as a possible approach for yielding further invaluable information.
Weyermann, C, Willis, S, Margot, P & Roux, C 2023, 'Towards more relevance in forensic science research and development', Forensic Science International, vol. 348, pp. 111592-111592.
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Woodward, H, Moret, S & Chadwick, S 2023, 'Biodegradable plastics and their impact on fingermark detection methods', Forensic Science International, vol. 344, pp. 111571-111571.
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