Forensic Science and Technology Commons^™

Compound-Specific Isotope Analysis Of Amino Acids In Biological Tissues: Applications In Forensic Entomology, Food Authentication And Soft-Biometrics In Humans, Mayara Patricia Viana De Matos

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

In this work we demonstrate the power of compound-specific isotope analysis (CSIA) to analyze proteinaceous biological materials in three distinct forensic applications, including: 1) linking necrophagous blow flies in different life stages to their primary carrion diet; 2) identifying the harvesting area of oysters for food authentication purposes; and 3) the ability to predict biometric traits about humans from their hair.

In the first application, we measured the amino-acid-level fractionation that occurs at each major life stage of Calliphora vicina (Robineau-Desvoidy) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) blow flies. Adult blow flies oviposited on raw pork muscle, beef muscle, or chicken liver. Larvae, pupae …

Assessing The Reliability Of Physical End Matching And Chemical Comparison Of Pressure Sensitive Tapes, Meghan Nicole Prusinowski

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Pressure sensitive tapes are a common evidence type in a variety of forensic cases, including violent crimes, drug trafficking, and terrorism. Forensic laboratories are often requested to analyze tape samples for composition and potential source identification. Tape samples manufactured from different sources are often distinguishable when using a combination of sensitive analytical techniques. Nonetheless, the interpretation of the data remains challenging due to a lack of standard criteria and guidelines from which examiners can support their conclusions. As a result, there is a need to standardize the protocols of interpretation of physical and chemical comparisons of tape evidence.

The manufacture …

Screening Sexual Assault Evidence With Low Concentrations Of Male Dna Utilizing The Rapidhit 200 And Paradna Intelligence Test, Taylor L. Koepfler

Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports

Over the last several years, crime laboratories have largely focused on the sexual assault kit (SAK) backlog, where they are often confronted with many low-quality samples. The lack of available screening techniques has prevented analysts from gaining insight into the disposition of the sample earlier on in the testing process; requiring analysts to rely on visual observations and little background information. Consequently, resulting in the hindrance of probative STR profiles while expending a large amount of time and resources to gain this result. In recent years, crime laboratories have explored a male screening technique, recommended by SWGDAM, to combat this …