ORCID Profile
0000-0002-9164-7103
Current Organisation
Western Sydney University - Hawkesbury Campus
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Detection And Prevention Of Crime; Security Services | Forensic Chemistry | Evidence And Procedure | Other Chemical Sciences | Analytical Chemistry | Macromolecular and Materials Chemistry | Synthesis Of Macromolecules | Organic Chemical Synthesis | Microbiology | Artificial Intelligence and Image Processing | Gene Expression (incl. Microarray and other genome-wide approaches) | Architecture | Biological Sciences Not Elsewhere Classified | Industrial Biotechnology | Architecture | Interior And Environmental Design | Law | Criminology | Macromolecular Chemistry Not Elsewhere Classified | Organic Chemistry Not Elsewhere Classified | Virology | Other Artificial Intelligence | Mathematics Not Elsewhere Classified | Analytical Spectrometry | Genetics Not Elsewhere Classified | Engineering And Technology Not Elsewhere Classified | Separation Science | Sensor (Chemical And Bio-) Technology | Justice Systems And Administration | Forensic Biology | Medical Virology | Other Biological Sciences | Diagnostic Applications | Film And Video | Industrial Biotechnology Diagnostics (incl. Biosensors)
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Law Enforcement | Law enforcement | Chemical sciences | Justice and the law not elsewhere classified | Criminal Justice | Scientific instrumentation | Other | Civil | Prevention—biologicals (e.g. vaccines) | Diagnostics | Treatments (e.g. chemicals, antibiotics) | Infectious diseases | Economic issues not elsewhere classified | Computer software and services not elsewhere classified | Expanding Knowledge in the Chemical Sciences |
Related Links
Publications
Rapid on-site identification of hazardous organic compounds at fire scenes using person-portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)—part 1: air sampling and analysis
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 30-10-2019
Application of a Microfluidic Gas-to-Liquid Interface for Extraction of Target Amphetamines and Precursors from Air Samples
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-03-2020
DOI: 10.3390/MI11030315
Abstract: The investigation of clandestine laboratories poses serious hazards for first responders, emergency services, investigators and the surrounding public due to the risk of exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used in the manufacture of illicit substances. A novel gas s ling interface using open microfluidic channels that enables the extraction of VOCs out of the gas phase and into a liquid, where it can be analysed by conventional detection systems, has recently been developed. This paper investigates the efficiency and effectiveness of such a gas-to-liquid (GTL) extraction system for the extraction of hetamine-type substances (ATS) and their precursors from the vapour phase. The GTL interface was evaluated across a range of different ATS and their precursors (meth hetamine, dimethyl hetamine, N-formylmeth hetamine, benzaldehyde, phenyl-2-propanone, ephedrine and pseudoephedrine) at concentrations ranging between 10 and 32 mg m−3. These gas s les were produced by a gas generation system directly in Tedlar® bags and gas canisters for controlled volume s ling. When using gas s led from Tedlar® bags, four of the seven compounds were able to be extracted by the GTL interface, with the majority of the VOCs having extraction yields between 0.005% and 4.5%, in line with the results from an initial study. When s les were taken from gas canisters, only benzaldehyde was able to be detected, with extraction efficiencies between 0.2% and 0.4%. A custom-built mount for the GTL interface helped to automate the extraction process, with the aim of increasing extraction efficiency or reducing variability. However, the extraction efficiency did not improve when using this accessory, but the procedure did become more efficient. The results from the study indicated that the GTL interface could be employed for the collection of gaseous ATS and incorporated into mobile detection systems for onsite collection and analysis of volatile compounds related to ATS manufacture.
Fingermark detection and identification: current research efforts
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-09-2013
Metal-Organic Frameworks for fingermark detection — A feasibility study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2018.08.005
Abstract: Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline structures, currently used as sensors, separation membranes, and as catalysts. Due to their physicochemical and optical properties, they have been recently proposed for fingermark detection. This study further explored their potential for fingermark detection. Natural fingermarks, as well as charged and protein-enriched marks, were used to test the efficiency of the technique. Various parameters, such as precursor concentration, pH, immersion time and detection protocols, were investigated and optimised. The performance of the optimised MOF-based method was then compared to that of routinely used techniques. The results obtained indicated that MOFs can effectively detect fingermarks, especially protein-rich marks such as marks contaminated with body fluids. However, after comparison and evaluation against benchmark techniques, results were judged to be inferior to those from currently employed detection methods. However, with further research and optimisation MOFs may be promising as an alternative to current powder suspension techniques.
Person-portable equipment in environmental forensic investigations: application to fire scenes
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-01-2018
Understanding physical developer (PD): Part I – Is PD targeting lipids?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2015.06.034
Abstract: Physical developer (PD) is a fingermark development technique that involves the selective reduction of silver onto fingermark residue. PD can develop marks on porous substrates even if they have been wet, leading to the logical, long held belief that the reagent targets the water insoluble constituents in the fingermark residue. The present research has tested this hypothesis as part of a broader study that aims to identify the targets of physical developer. Spot tests of some fatty acids, cholesterol and squalene, treated with PD, showed that only cholesterol produced significant silver deposition. PD is known to be particularly effective on aged marks, however cholesterol degrades over time. These observations indicate that PD reactivity with fingermarks cannot solely be due to the presence of cholesterol. Fingermarks were deposited on paper and washed with various organic solvents before being treated with PD. PD effectiveness was intermittent on both solvent washed and unwashed sides of both natural and groomed marks however, it was seen to effectively develop groomed s les that had been exposed to common lipid extraction solvents, shown to have removed the lipids by visualisation using the lipid stain Nile red. PD effectiveness was most affected by exposure of s les to solvents that could dissolve water soluble components, showing that the removal of these constituents (by either water, or other solvents) decreases the amount of silver deposited on the fingermark residue by the working solution. Close observation of PD developed s les showed variation in silver deposition uniformity when comparing a developed ridge to a pore site located on that ridge. Some s les showed an absence of silver, and other showed an increase of silver at pore locations. This indicates that the material excreted by the pores on the finger has an effect on silver deposition, suggesting that PD may be specifically targeting eccrine constituents that are present along the ridges but are more concentrated at the pore locations. These findings indicate that PD is not targeting the lipids in the fingermark residue per se, and may instead be targeting eccrine constituents or a more complex mixture of both eccrine and lipid constituents. Further investigation is underway within our group to investigate the components targeted by PD to gain a better understanding of what is a notoriously sensitive and hard to employ technique in the hope that it can be improved or simplified, or alternatives identified.
Evaluation of elemental profiling methods, including laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), for the differentiation of Cannabis plant material grown in different nutrient solutions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2015.03.029
Abstract: Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) is an emerging atomic emission based solid s ling technique that has many potential forensic applications. In this study, the analytical performance of LIBS, as well as that of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and X-ray microfluorescence (μXRF), was evaluated for the ability to conduct elemental analyses on Cannabis plant material, with a specific investigation of the possible links between hydroponic nutrients and elemental profiles from associated plant material. No such study has been previously published in the literature. Good correlation among the four techniques was observed when the concentrations or peak areas of the elements of interest were monitored. For Cannabis s les collected at the same growth time, the elemental profiles could be related to the use of particular commercial nutrients. In addition, the study demonstrated that ICP-MS, LA-ICP-MS and LIBS are suitable techniques for the comparison of Cannabis s les from different sources, with high discriminating powers being achieved. On the other hand, μXRF method was not suitable for the discrimination of Cannabis s les originating from different growth nutrients.
Fingermark detection and identification: current research efforts
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 28-05-2020
The computer-assisted identification of colour photocopiers
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-1995
Identification of inorganic ions in post-blast explosive residues using portable CE instrumentation and capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 11-2008
Abstract: Novel CE methods have been developed on portable instrumentation adapted to accommodate a capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detector for the separation and sensitive detection of inorganic anions and cations in post-blast explosive residues from homemade inorganic explosive devices. The methods presented combine sensitivity and speed of analysis for the wide range of inorganic ions used in this study. Separate methods were employed for the separation of anions and cations. The anion separation method utilised a low conductivity 70 mM Tris/70 mM CHES aqueous electrolyte (pH 8.6) with a 90 cm capillary coated with hexadimethrine bromide to reverse the EOF. Fifteen anions could be baseline separated in 7 min with detection limits in the range 27-240 microg/L. A selection of ten anions deemed most important in this application could be separated in 45 s on a shorter capillary (30.6 cm) using the same electrolyte. The cation separation method was performed on a 73 cm length of fused-silica capillary using an electrolyte system composed of 10 mM histidine and 50 mM acetic acid, at pH 4.2. The addition of the complexants, 1 mM hydroxyisobutyric acid and 0.7 mM 18-crown-6 ether, enhanced selectivity and allowed the separation of eleven inorganic cations in under 7 min with detection limits in the range 31-240 microg/L. The developed methods were successfully field tested on post-blast residues obtained from the controlled detonation of homemade explosive devices. Results were verified using ion chromatographic analyses of the same s les.
Soil examination for a forensic trace evidence laboratory - Part 2: Elemental analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2014.10.018
Abstract: Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS), X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) are compared in terms of their discrimination power when applied to Australian soil specimens. SEM/EDX and XRF are frequently used in forensic laboratories for the elemental analysis of paint and glass, and for miscellaneous examinations. LIBS is an emerging technique for forensic applications, with a number of researchers promoting its use for the elemental profiling of glass fragments. In this study, 29 soil specimens were analysed, with 12 specimens coming from the Canberra area and the remaining 17 specimens from other sites around Australia. As very good discrimination results were obtained for each of the analytical methods, any of these elemental analysis techniques, available in a trace evidence laboratory, could be used as part of a wider examination protocol to differentiate soil specimens.
Lawsone: A novel reagent for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1039/B808424F
Abstract: Lawsone (2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone) reacts with latent fingermark deposits on paper surfaces to yield purple-brown impressions of ridge details which are also photoluminescent this compound represents the first in a completely new class of fingermark detection reagents.
Evaluation of fingermark detection sequences on paper substrates
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.12.028
Abstract: It is generally accepted that the amino acid reagent consisting of 1,2-indanedione and a catalytic amount of zinc chloride, referred to as IND-Zn, is the single best method for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper substrates and that ninhydrin is of limited value when used in sequence after this reagent. However, recent research has suggested that the sequence 1,8-diazafluoren-9-one (DFO) followed by ninhydrin may actually produce a greater number of fingermarks than IND-Zn on its own or IND-Zn followed by ninhydrin. This study focussed on the evaluation of two fingermark detection sequences for porous surfaces: (1) IND-Zn followed by ninhydrin, physical developer (PD) and the lipid stain nile red and (2) DFO followed by ninhydrin, PD and nile red. The evaluation was undertaken using a range of latent fingermark donors and on a number of paper substrates that are commonly encountered in Australia. In addition, a pseudo-operational trial was completed on 5-year-old university examination booklets. Parallel studies were undertaken at two locations: Sydney (temperate, coastal climate) and Canberra (relatively dry, continental climate). The results of the donor study indicated that there was a negligible difference in performance between the two sequences across all paper types and all time periods evaluated. When considering in idual reagents, IND-Zn generally developed better quality fingermarks compared to DFO however, ninhydrin had a greater enhancement effect on DFO developed marks than after IND-Zn. In the pseudo-operational trials, the IND-Zn sequence outperformed the DFO sequence. Nile red did not develop any additional marks at the end of each sequence and, as a result, the use of this technique at the end of a full sequence is of questionable value. The overall outcome was that the sequence IND-Zn followed by ninhydrin and PD is recommended for the processing of common paper substrates under the conditions typically experienced at the two locations studied.
A study to investigate the evidential value of blue and black ballpoint pen inks in Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-1999
Short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping of keratinised hair Part 2. An optimised genomic DNA extraction procedure reveals donor dependence of STR profiles
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2005.05.005
Abstract: A feasibility study of short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping of telogen phase hairs in particular, and hair shaft in general, is presented. A number of extraction procedures in common use were investigated and the quantities of nuclear DNA (nuDNA) delivered were quantified via a real-time PCR assay. The extracts were subjected to two variations on AmpFlSTR Profiler Plus PCR lification strategies (extended cycles, two rounds of PCR) and the genotypes compared. Nuclear DNA was found to persist in human hair shafts, albeit at very low levels. Full Profiler Plus profiles consistent with the hair donor were obtained from 100 mg hair shaft s les (bleached and unbleached). These were, however, mixed profiles, indicating low copy number (LCN) contamination in the extracts. Single telogen hair clubs and single hair shafts delivered partial profiles with usually only one allele of heterozygous loci. Telogen phase hairs yielded the same amount of nuDNA (and no more) as hair shafts (either anagen or telogen). Whether hair shafts dissolved or not in lysis buffer had no effect on either the quantitated yield of DNA or on the chance of obtaining a correct genotype. These results provide evidence that genomic DNA resides on the exterior of the hair shaft and we use this information to suggest an optimal procedure for nuDNA extraction from keratinised hair s les: soaking hairs in simple digestion buffers containing Tris-HCl, a salt and a chelating agent without prior cleaning of the hair shafts. It is proposed that cleaning removes most of the recoverable DNA. This procedure was applied to obtain genotypes from 3 cm hair shafts which matched reference profiles from the donors at up to 9 out of 10 AmpFlSTR Profiler Plus STR loci. When the genotyping success was measured by counting the number of matches between the two dominant alleles at each locus for each extract with the reference DNA profile of the hair donor, the success was found to be highly dependent on the donor. The number of matching alleles varied between not less than 10 for one donor to no more than two for another donor. These results may well be linked to the environmental experience of the hairs from each donor prior to removal.
Short tandem repeat (STR) genotyping of keratinised hair: Part 1. Review of current status and knowledge gaps
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2005.05.006
Abstract: We present a review of the literature on procedures for obtaining short tandem repeat (STR) genotypes from keratinised hair, being either hair shaft or telogen phase (naturally shed) hairs without associated scalp, follicle or sheath cells. Both the hair shaft and the telogen hair club have been subjected to the DNA-degrading keratinisation process and are more likely to be found at a crime scene than anagen (plucked) or catagen phase hairs. We discuss human hair structure, the human hair growth cycle, the keratinisation process and their implications for DNA extraction procedures, PCR lification strategies and the interpretation of STR genotypes. Knowledge gaps and areas requiring research are identified and are the subject of a second article in this series.
Assessment of evaporative and photochemical effects on asphaltene profiling of a heavy fuel oil
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 20-02-2020
Use of a gaseous electrical discharge to induce luminescence in latent fingerprints
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-1990
The black sheep of forensic science: military forensic and technical exploitation
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-11-2019
Soil examination for a forensic trace evidence laboratory-Part 1: Spectroscopic techniques
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2014.08.009
Abstract: In the past, forensic soil examination was a routine aspect of trace evidence examination in forensic science. However, in Australia, the apparent need for soil examinations has diminished and with it the capability of forensic science laboratories to carry out soil examination has been eroded. In recent years, due to soil examinations contributing to some high profile investigations, interest in soil examinations has been renewed. Routine soil examinations conducted in a forensic science laboratory by trace evidence scientists can be facilitated if the examinations are conducted using the instrumentation routinely used by these examiners. Spectroscopic techniques such as visible microspectrophotometry (MSP) and Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) are routinely used by trace evidence analysts for the colour and compositional analysis, respectively, of forensic items, including paints, fibres, inks and toners, tapes, adhesives and other miscellaneous examinations. This article presents an examination of the feasibility of using MSP and ATR-FTIR as a first step in the forensic comparison of soils with particular reference to Australian soil s les. This initial study demonstrates MSP and ATR-FTIR can effectively be used as a screening test for the discrimination of "forensic-sized" soil s les prior to submission for more detailed analyses by a soil expert.
Fingerprint identification: how far have we come?
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2013
Microscopic examination of fingermark residues: Opportunities for fundamental studies
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2015.05.027
Abstract: Despite significant ongoing research, a substantial proportion of latent fingermarks remain undetected in casework. Therefore, to improve existing detection techniques and to allow the development of new approaches, it is important to gain a better understanding of detection mechanisms rather than solely focusing on method formulations. As a starting point, it is crucial to gain a deeper understanding of the fingermark residue itself. Even if the chemical composition is reasonably well understood, little research has been reported on the physical aspects related to the deposition of fingermarks and their interactions with the environment and underlying substrates. This study aimed at exploring various techniques that can be used for the non-destructive visualisation of fingermarks before applying detection techniques. Both light and electron microscopy were investigated. Phase contrast imaging and environmental scanning electron microscopy, coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry, proved to be essential tools for the study of latent fingermark deposits. These methods can be used to gather fundamental information that will add to our body of knowledge in this field.
Forensic analysis of explosives using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) — Discrimination of ammonium nitrate sources
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCIJUS.2009.04.005
Abstract: 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 s les 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 s les 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. S les 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 s les analysed. The comparison of nitrogen isotope values from intact AN prill s les 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.
Forensic Analysis of Explosives Using Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS)—Part 1: Instrument Validation of the DELTAplusXP IRMS for Bulk Nitrogen Isotope Ratio Measurements
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1556-4029.2009.01241.X
Abstract: A significant amount of research has been conducted into the use of stable isotopes to assist in determining the origin of various materials. The research conducted in the forensic field shows the potential of isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to provide a level of discrimination not achievable utilizing traditional forensic techniques. Despite the research there have been few, if any, publications addressing the validation and measurement uncertainty of the technique for forensic applications. This study, the first in a planned series, presents validation data for the measurement of bulk nitrogen isotope ratios in ammonium nitrate (AN) using the DELTA(plus)XP (Thermo Finnigan) IRMS instrument equipped with a ConFlo III interface and FlashEA 1112 elemental analyzer (EA). Appropriate laboratory standards, analytical methods and correction calculations were developed and evaluated. A validation protocol was developed in line with the guidelines provided by the National Association of Testing Authorities, Australia (NATA). Performance characteristics including: accuracy, precision/repeatability, reproducibility/ruggedness, robustness, linear range, and measurement uncertainty were evaluated for the measurement of nitrogen isotope ratios in AN. AN (99.5%) and ammonium thiocyanate (99.99+%) were determined to be the most suitable laboratory standards and were calibrated against international standards (certified reference materials). All performance characteristics were within an acceptable range when potential uncertainties, including the manufacturer's uncertainty of the technique and standards, were taken into account. The experiments described in this article could be used as a model for validation of other instruments for similar purposes. Later studies in this series will address the more general issue of demonstrating that the IRMS technique is scientifically sound and fit-for-purpose in the forensic explosives analysis field.
Australian biometric system to meet national security objectives – Part II legislation and policy
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-06-2022
The Recovery of Latent Fingermarks from Evidence Exposed to Ionizing Radiation*
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-04-2009
DOI: 10.1111/J.1556-4029.2009.01016.X
Abstract: 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.
Determining the effects of routine fingermark detection techniques on the subsequent recovery and analysis of explosive residues on various substrates
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.09.018
Abstract: An offender who has recently handled bulk explosives would be expected to deposit latent fingermarks that are contaminated with explosive residues. However, fingermark detection techniques need to be applied in order for these fingermarks to be detected and recorded. Little information is available in terms of how routine fingermark detection methods impact on the subsequent recovery and analysis of any explosive residues that may be present. If an identifiable fingermark is obtained and that fingermark is found to be contaminated with a particular explosive then that may be crucial evidence in a criminal investigation (including acts of terrorism involving improvised explosive devices). The principal aims of this project were to investigate: (i) the typical quantities of explosive material deposited in fingermarks by someone who has recently handled bulk explosives and (ii) the effects of routine fingermark detection methods on the subsequent recovery and analysis of explosive residues in such fingermarks. Four common substrates were studied: paper, glass, plastic (polyethylene plastic bags), and metal (aluminium foil). The target explosive compounds were 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), as well as chlorate and nitrate ions. Recommendations are provided in terms of the application of fingermark detection methods on surfaces that may contain explosive residues.
The forensic intelligence continuum in the military context
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-05-2020
Molecularly Imprinted Polymers and Room Temperature Ionic Liquids: Impact of Template on Polymer Morphology
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1071/CH06284
Abstract: Molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) were generated for trans-aconitic acid 1 and cocaine 2 in a variety of porogens (CH3CN, CHCl3, [bmim][BF4], and [bmim][PF6]). MIP synthesis in either [bmim][BF4] or [bmim][PF6] resulted in significant acceleration of polymerization rates and, in the case of low temperature polymerizations, reactions were complete in less than 2 h, while no product was observed in the corresponding volatile organic carbon (VOC) porogen. In all instances, MIPs generated in [bmim][BF4] or [bmim][PF6] returned imprinting selectivities (I values) on par with or better than the corresponding MIP generated in VOCs. Imprinting values ranged between I = 1 and 2.9, with rebinding limited to 1 h. MIP synthesis conducted at low temperature (5°C) afforded the highest I values. Scanning electron microscopy examination of MIP morphology highlighted an unexpected template effect with MIP structure varying between discrete nanoparticles and robust monoliths. This template–monomer interaction was also observed in the rates of polymerizations with differences noted in reaction times for 1 and 2 MIPs, thus providing indirect conformation of our previously proposed use of molecular modelling–nuclear magnetic resonance titrations (the MM-NMR method) in the design phase of MIP generation. In addition, considerable batch-to-batch rebinding selectivities were observed.
The effect of metal salt treatment on the photoluminescence of DFO-treated fingerprints
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2001
DOI: 10.1016/S0379-0738(00)00358-3
Abstract: Ninhydrin developed fingerprints can be enhanced by treatment with a zinc or cadmium salt. The resulting fingerprint luminescence has been attributed to the induced coplanarity of the bicyclic indanedione rings of Ruhemann's purple due to complexation with the metal ions. This paper explores whether this effect also occurs in the 1,8-diaza-9-fluorenone (DFO)-amino acid adduct (1), formed from the reaction of DFO with amino acids. Molecular modeling studies of (1) indicate a relatively small out-of-plane angle of 24 degrees. 1H NMR studies indicate (1) is asymmetric about the C2 axis in contrast to what has been previously reported. Little, if any, enhancement of luminescence was observed with Zn, Cd, Ru or Eu treated DFO developed latent fingerprints. This lack of enhancement was also borne out by solution luminescence studies. Given this lack of enhancement of luminescence, solutions of (1) and the four metal ions above were analyzed by electrospray mass spectrometry (ESMS). This indicated the formation of predominantly 1:1 complexes of (1) with both Zn and Cd, and the 2:1 complex with ruthenium. No evidence of a Eu complex was found by ESMS.
Australian biometric system to meet national security objectives – part I technical capabilities
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-06-2021
Vacuum metal deposition: factors affecting normal and reverse development of latent fingerprints on polyethylene substrates
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2001
DOI: 10.1016/S0379-0738(00)00310-8
Abstract: Vacuum metal deposition (VMD) is an established technique for the development of latent fingerprints on non-porous surfaces. VMD has advantages over cyanoacrylate fuming, especially in circumstances where prints are old, have been exposed to adverse environmental conditions, or are present on semi-porous surfaces. Under normal circumstances, VMD produces 'negative' prints as zinc deposits onto the background substrate and not the print ridges themselves. A phenomenon of 'reverse' development, when zinc deposits onto the print ridges and not the background, has been reported by many authors but its causes have not been conclusively identified. Four plastic substrates were used in this study and these could be easily ided into two groups based on the types of development observed as the amount of deposited gold was increased. On group I plastics, identified as low-density polyethylene (LDPE), normal development then reverse development and finally no development resulted with increasing gold. On group II plastics, identified as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), normal development then over-development and finally poor-quality normal development resulted with increasing gold. Our results suggest that the difference between these plastic types causes variations in the gold film structure which in turn dictates the nature of the zinc deposition. On group I plastics, the structure and thickness of the gold film has been identified as the critical factor in the occurrence of normal or reverse development. Thin gold films on plastic substrates form small 'clusters' (or agglomerates) rather than the atoms being uniformly spread over the surface. The size and shape of these clusters is critical. Once the clusters reach a certain morphology, they no longer act as nucleation sites for zinc, and hence, zinc will not deposit onto the substrate. On group II plastics, results suggest that the gold clusters are smaller and more densely packed. Hence, even though the same amount of gold has been deposited, the gold clusters in this case do not reach the critical morphology and so continue to act as nucleation sites for zinc.Typically, zinc will not deposit onto the fingerprint ridges as the gold nucleation sites are buried within the print residue. However, when more gold is deposited, gold emerges at the surface of the latent print allowing zinc deposition onto the ridges. The rate of gold evaporation was found not to affect the structure of the gold film, although a slower rate of evaporation resulted in more effective deposition.
The detection of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces using amino acid sensitive reagents: A review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACA.2009.06.023
Abstract: The introduction of ninhydrin treatment as a chemical technique for the visualisation of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces revolutionised approaches to forensic fingermark examination. Since then, a range of amino acid sensitive reagents has been developed and such compounds are in widespread use by law enforcement agencies worldwide. This paper reviews the development and use of these reagents for the detection of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces. A brief overview is provided, including an historical background, forensic significance, and a general approach to the development of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces. This is followed by a discussion of specific amino acid sensitive treatments.
Portable gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method for the in-field screening of organic pollutants in soil and water at pollution incidents
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-07-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S11356-023-28648-W
Abstract: Environmental pollution incidents generate an emergency response from regulatory agencies to ensure that the impact on the environment is minimised. Knowing what pollutants are present provides important intelligence to assist in determining how to respond to the incident. However, responders are limited in their in-field capabilities to identify the pollutants present. This research has developed an in-field, qualitative analytical approach to detect and identify organic pollutants that are commonly detected by regulatory environmental laboratories. A rapid, in-field extraction method was used for water and soil matrices. A coiled microextraction (CME) device was utilised for the introduction of the extracted s les into a portable gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) for analysis. The total combined extraction and analysis time was approximately 6.5 min per s le. Results demonstrated that the in-field extraction and analysis methods can screen for fifty-nine target organic contaminants, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons, monoaromatic hydrocarbons, phenols, phthalates, organophosphorus pesticides, and organochlorine pesticides. The method was also capable of tentatively identifying unknown compounds using library searches, significantly expanding the scope of the methods for the provision of intelligence at pollution incidents of an unknown nature, although a laboratory-based method was able to provide more information due to the higher sensitivity achievable. The methods were evaluated using authentic casework s les and were found to be fit-for-purpose for providing rapid in-field intelligence at pollution incidents. The fact that the in-field methods target the same compounds as the laboratory-based methods provides the added benefit that the in-field results can assist in s le triaging upon submission to the laboratory for quantitation and confirmatory analysis.
Forensic analysis of explosives using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) — Preliminary study on TATP and PETN
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCIJUS.2009.03.004
Abstract: 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 s les 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 s les from different sources was also investigated. Carbon isotope values were measured in fourteen TATP s les, with three definite groups appearing in the initial s le set based on the carbon data alone. Four additional TATP s les (in a second set of s les) were distinguishable utilising the carbon and hydrogen isotopic compositions in idually, 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 s les of TATP. The carbon and nitrogen isotope values measured from fifteen PETN s les, allowed s les 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 s les from different sources. This research represents a preliminary evaluation of the IRMS technique for the measurement of stable isotope values in TATP and PETN s les, and supports the dedication of resources for a full evaluation of this application in order to achieve Court reportable IRMS results.
Near infrared imaging for the improved detection of fingermarks on difficult surfaces
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2009
Formulation of Cocaine-Imprinted Polymers Utilizing Molecular Modelling and NMR Analysis
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1071/CH04138
Abstract: Molecular imprinted polymers (MIPs) have distinctive features that make them attractive as an inexpensive, reusable, and robust field-based detection system for illicit substances. Optimizing MIP performance is traditionally attained by the synthesis and evaluation of a plethora of in idual formulations. A non-covalently imprinted polymer for cocaine has been prepared using a commercially available molecular modelling package (Spartan 02) to predict energetically favourable monomer–template interactions between the target (T) and two different functional monomers (FM)—methacrylic acid (MAA) and 4-vinylpyridine (4VP). NMR studies undertaken to assess target–monomer behaviour in solution were in good agreement with the computational data. MIPs involving three target-to-functional monomer ratios (1 : 2, 1 : 6, and 1 : 14) were prepared and evaluated. Target rebinding was found to be most favourable in the 1 : 2 formulation with a target-selective binding of 0.48 ppm and an imprinting factor (I) of 2.8 obtained for 10 mg of test polymer.
Evaluation of multi-target immunogenic reagents for the detection of latent and body fluid-contaminated fingermarks
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2016.04.014
Abstract: Fingermark enhancement reagents capable of molecular recognition offer a highly selective and sensitive method of detection. Antibodies and aptamers provide a high degree of adaptability for visualisation, allowing for the selection of the most appropriate visualisation wavelength for a particular substrate without the need for specialist equipment or image processing. However, the major hurdle to overcome is the balance between sensitivity and selectivity. Single-target molecular recognition is highly specific, purported to have better detection limits than chemical reactions or stains, and can provide information about the donor or activity, but often results in incomplete ridge pattern development. Consequently, the development and evaluation of multi-target biomolecular reagents for fingermark enhancement was investigated, with the focus on endogenous eccrine secretions. To assess the suitability of the immunogenic reagents for potential operational use, a variety of parameters (i.e., processing time, fixing and working solution conditions) were optimised on a wide range of non-porous and semi-porous substrates. The relative performance of immunogenic reagents was compared to that of routine techniques applied to latent marks and marks in blood, semen and saliva. The incorporation of these novel reagents into routine technique sequences was also investigated. The experimental results indicated that the multi-target immunogenic reagents were not a suitable alternative to routine detection methods or sequences, but may have promise as a "last resort" method for difficult substrates or cases.
The transfer and persistence of petrol on car carpets
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2004.04.081
Abstract: The significance of the presence of petrol in motor vehicle fires has often been challenged due to the possibility of a natural occurrence of petrol residues inside the vehicle. Transfer and persistence studies were undertaken to investigate the potential transfer and persistence of petrol onto vehicle carpets through the 'normal' usage of motor vehicles. The results of the transfer study indicate that petrol may be transferred from the external environment in sufficient quantities via the shoes of drivers or passengers to be detected after a 24 h period, but not after 1 week. Low levels of petrol were detectable after 24 h on all carpet mats where the initial volume was 500 microL or more. The level of evaporation of the petrol detected increased with corresponding increases in the time period between transfer and analysis. The results of the persistence study indicate that small volumes of petrol (less than 100 microL) are unlikely to be detected on carpet after a 24 h period, and volumes of less than 1000 microL are unlikely to be detected on acoustic padding after this time period. Larger volumes may be detected after this period, but will generally not be detectable on either carpet or acoustic padding after 4 weeks. In each case, the petrol that is detected exhibits a chromatographic profile of greater than 60% evaporated petrol. These results demonstrate the significance of finding a large volume of fresh or slightly evaporated petrol on car carpet.
Fluorescent TiO2 powders prepared using a new perylene diimide dye: Applications in latent fingermark detection
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2006.09.014
Abstract: A new, highly fluorescent dye was synthesised using oleylamine combined with a perylene dianhydride compound. The new dye was characterised by 1H NMR, UV-vis spectroscopy and fluorescence spectroscopy as well as quantum yield. The dye was absorbed onto titanium dioxide nanoparticles for use as a fingerprint detection powder. The new fluorescent powder was applied to latent fingermarks deposited onto different non-porous surfaces and compared with commercial fluorescent powders. The powder exhibits strong fluorescence at 650-700 nm under excitation at 505 nm. On glass surfaces, the new powder gave images showing tertiary-level detail of the fingermark ridges with almost no background development. Compared with current magnetic fluorescent powders, the new powder was slightly weaker in fluorescence intensity but produced significantly less background development, resulting in good contrast between the fingermark and the substrate.
Rapid on-site identification of hazardous organic compounds at fire scenes using person-portable gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)–part 2: water sampling and analysis
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 15-11-2019
Vacuum metal deposition: Visualisation of gold agglomerates using TEM imaging
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2006.01.012
Abstract: Vacuum metal deposition (VMD) is a well-established technique that can be used for the development of latent fingermarks on a range of polymer surfaces, including polyethylene (PE) bags exposed to harsh environmental conditions. The technique has also proved to be effective on difficult semi-porous surfaces such as the polymer banknotes in circulation in Australia and in an increasing number of other countries. VMD is a two-stage technique. In the first stage, a small amount of gold is deposited under high vacuum onto the exhibit. This is then followed by the deposition, onto the gold layer, of a much thicker layer of zinc. Normal VMD development is characterised by zinc depositing all over the surface except on the fingermark ridges themselves. A phenomenon of reverse development (zinc on the ridges but not on the surface) has been reported by many authors. Recent studies indicated that this phenomenon might occur on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) when the amount of deposited gold is above an optimum quantity. The results suggested that the size of the gold agglomerates formed on the surface of the polymer plays a critical role. This preliminary study was aimed at visualising, by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the formation of gold agglomerates on polymer surfaces to gain an appreciation of how the density and size of these agglomerates changes with an increasing amount of evaporated gold.
Background interference from car carpets—the evidential value of petrol residues in cases of suspected vehicle arson
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2002
Nile red: Alternative to physical developer for the detection of latent fingermarks on wet porous surfaces?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.03.041
Abstract: This paper describes the application of a luminescent lipid stain, nile red, for the development of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces. An optimised formulation is presented that provides rapid development of latent fingermarks on porous surfaces that are or have been wet. A comparison with physical developer (PD), the method of choice to enhance such fingermarks, indicated that nile red was a simpler and more stable technique for the development of fingermarks. The nile red formulation showed similar performance to PD across a range of substrates and ageing conditions, although PD still showed greater sensitivity on five-year-old examination booklets used in a pseudo-operational study. The pseudo-operational trial also indicated that nile red consistently developed different fingermarks to those enhanced by PD, suggesting that it preferentially targets a different fraction of the latent fingermark deposit. Significantly, the compatibility of nile red in a detection sequence with indanedione-zinc, ninhydrin and PD is reported.
Fingerprint detection: current capabilities
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2007
Preliminary evaluation of a next-generation portable gas chromatograph mass spectrometer (GC-MS) for the on-site analysis of ignitable liquid residues
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-06-2015
Stability of explosive residues in methanol/water extracts, on alcohol wipes and on a glass surface
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.01.037
Abstract: The stability of four target organic explosives [pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and triacetone triperoxide (TATP)] and two inorganic anions (chlorate and nitrate) on polyester-based alcohol wipes and in 60% (v/v) methanol/water extracts, stored over 30 days in clear and amber glass vials at three different temperatures, was investigated in order to establish storage recommendations. The retention of all six representative compounds on a glass surface at two different storage temperatures was also included as a preliminary study on the stability of explosive residues on stored exhibits (such as post-blast debris). The results from the stability study suggested that, after s ling, the wipes should be stored in a dark and low temperature environment. Also, after extracting the wipes with 60% (v/v) methanol/water (as in our previously reported recommended protocol), the extracts should be stored in a similar fashion. The results from the retention study on the glass substrate suggested that exhibits should be stored at the lowest temperature possible to minimise the loss of TNT or TATP (or similar target compounds) that might be present as residues.
Understanding Physical Developer (PD): Part II - Is PD targeting eccrine constituents?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2015.08.029
Abstract: Physical developer (PD) is a fingermark development technique that deposits silver onto fingermark ridges. It is the only technique currently in routine operational use that gives results on porous substrates that have been wet. There is a reasonable understanding of the working solution chemistry, but the chemical constituent(s) contained in fingermark residue that are specifically targeted by PD are largely unknown. A better understanding of the PD technique will permit a more informed selection of alternative or complementary detection methods, and greater usage in operational laboratories. Recent research by our group has shown that PD does not selectively target the lipids present in the residue. This research investigated the hypothesis that PD targets the eccrine constituents in fingermark residue. This was tested by comparison of PD and indanedione-zinc (Ind-Zn) treated natural fingermarks that had been deposited successively, and marks that had been deposited with a ten second interval in between depositions. Such an interval allows for the regeneration of secretions from the pores located on the ridges of the fingers. On fingermark depletions with no time interval between depositions, PD and Ind-Zn treated depletions successively (and comparatively) decreased in development intensity as the amount of residue diminished. Short time intervals in between successive depletions resulted in additional secretions from the pores intermittently occurring, the increased development of which was visualised by treatment with both PD and Ind-Zn. The changes in development intensity were seen with both techniques on the same split depletions in a series, comparably and proportionately. These results indicate that the components targeted by PD are contained in the material excreted by the friction ridge pores through its mirrored development with Ind-Zn. Repetition of the experiments on marks that only contained eccrine material showed good Ind-Zn development but poor results with PD. This indicates that there are other constituents contained in "natural" fingermarks that are required to be present for PD to be able to target constituents in the eccrine sweat. It may be that the required constituents in the natural residues are non-water soluble, and that these protect the eccrine constituents from solubilisation in the aqueous washes employed in the PD method. Further research is being undertaken to determine whether PD is targeting specific compounds in the pore secretions, or a mixture of compounds consisting of the eccrine material, epidermal lipids and sebaceous lipids typically present in latent fingermark residues.
Visualization of latent fingermarks using an aptamer-based reagent
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-10-2012
Use of Styryl 11 and STaR 11 for the Luminescence Enhancement of Cyanoacrylate-Developed Fingermarks in the Visible and Near-Infrared Regions
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-07-2011
DOI: 10.1111/J.1556-4029.2011.01846.X
Abstract: In current casework, most post-cyanoacrylate stains rely on luminescence emission in the visible region (400-700 nm). While traditional stains such as rhodamine 6G work well under most circumstances, some surfaces may generate background luminescence under the same conditions. Detection in the near-infrared region (NIR > 700 nm) has shown to be effective in minimizing the interferences from such surfaces. The laser dye styryl 11 generated strongly luminescent fingermarks when applied after cyanoacrylate fuming on all surfaces tested. When compared to rhodamine 6G, the dye was superior only when viewed in the NIR. Styryl 11 was subsequently combined with rhodamine 6G, and the mixed stain formulation (named StaR 11 by the authors) induced stronger luminescence compared with styryl 11 alone with an ability to visualize in both the visible and NIR regions. Reliable and consistent results were obtained when using either styryl 11 alone or the STaR 11 mixture. The enhancement achieved did not otherwise vary depending on the source of the fingermark secretions. With visualization possible in both the visible and NIR regions, the styryl 11/rhodamine 6G mixture showed significant potential as a post-cyanoacrylate stain.
An evaluation of nanostructured zinc oxide as a fluorescent powder for fingerprint detection
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-10-2008
Synthesis and application of an aqueous nile red microemulsion for the development of fingermarks on porous surfaces
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2014.08.028
Abstract: An oil-in-water microemulsion containing a luminescent dye, nile red, has been synthesised using a solvent-diffusion method. This has been demonstrated to be effective in developing fresh latent fingermarks on porous surfaces. The working solution is made using a binary surfactant solution to create a lactescent dual organic-aqueous phase intermediate, which subsequently results in a transparent microemulsion after the organic solvent has evaporated. The solution is non-toxic and performs comparatively with a previously published methanolic formulation but at a much lower cost and with an extended shelf life. The microemulsion outperforms a previously reported aqueous nile blue formulation for the development of both charged and natural fresh fingermarks, and requires lower exposure times for image recording.
Fingermark detection on non-porous and semi-porous surfaces using YVO 4:Er,Yb luminescent upconverting particles
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2011.10.033
Abstract: This article describes the use of an anti-Stokes luminescent material (upconverter), yttrium vanadate doped with ytterbium and erbium (YVO(4):Er,Yb), for the development of latent fingermarks on a range of non-porous surfaces. Anti-Stokes luminescent materials emit light at shorter wavelengths than the excitation wavelength. This property is unusual in both natural and artificial materials commonly found as exhibits in forensic science casework. As a result, fingermark detection techniques based on anti-Stokes luminescence are potentially extremely sensitive and selective. Latent fingermarks on non-luminescent and inherently luminescent substrates, including Australian polymer banknotes (a well-known 'difficult' surface), were developed with YVO(4):Er,Yb by dry powder and wet powder techniques. The effectiveness of YVO(4):Er,Yb for fingermark detection was compared with that of cyanoacrylate fuming and of sodium yttrium tetrafluoride doped with ytterbium and erbium (NaYF(4):Er,Yb). The results illustrate some benefit of luminescent up-converting phosphors over traditional luminescence techniques for the detection of latent fingermarks.
The Anti-fibrotic Actions of Relaxin Are Mediated Through a NO-sGC-cGMP-Dependent Pathway in Renal Myofibroblasts In Vitro and Enhanced by the NO Donor, Diethylamine NONOate.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 31-03-2016
Spatial analysis of corresponding fingerprint features from match and close non-match populations
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2012.10.034
Abstract: The development of statistical models for forensic fingerprint identification purposes has been the subject of increasing research attention in recent years. This can be partly seen as a response to a number of commentators who claim that the scientific basis for fingerprint identification has not been adequately demonstrated. In addition, key forensic identification bodies such as ENFSI [1] and IAI [2] have recently endorsed and acknowledged the potential benefits of using statistical models as an important tool in support of the fingerprint identification process within the ACE-V framework. In this paper, we introduce a new Likelihood Ratio (LR) model based on Support Vector Machines (SVMs) trained with features discovered via morphometric and spatial analyses of corresponding minutiae configurations for both match and close non-match populations often found in AFIS candidate lists. Computed LR values are derived from a probabilistic framework based on SVMs that discover the intrinsic spatial differences of match and close non-match populations. Lastly, experimentation performed on a set of over 120,000 publicly available fingerprint images (mostly sourced from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) datasets) and a distortion set of approximately 40,000 images, is presented, illustrating that the proposed LR model is reliably guiding towards the right proposition in the identification assessment of match and close non-match populations. Results further indicate that the proposed model is a promising tool for fingerprint practitioners to use for analysing the spatial consistency of corresponding minutiae configurations.
Evaluation of x-ray microfluorescence spectrometry for the elemental analysis of firearm discharge residues
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-1998
Assessment and forensic application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for the discrimination of Australian window glass
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2014.04.040
Abstract: A commercially available laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument was evaluated for the determination of elemental composition of twenty Australian window glass s les, consisting of 14 laminated s les and 6 non-laminated s les (or not otherwise specified) collected from broken windows at crime scenes. In this study, the LIBS figures of merit were assessed in terms of accuracy, limits of detection and precision using three standard reference materials (NIST 610, 612, and 1831). The discrimination potential of LIBS was compared to that obtained using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), X-ray microfluorescence spectroscopy (μXRF) and scanning electron microscopy energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry (SEM-EDX) for the analysis of architectural window glass s les collected from crime scenes in the Canberra region, Australia. Pairwise comparisons were performed using a three-sigma rule, two-way ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test at 95% confidence limit in order to investigate the discrimination power for window glass analysis. The results show that the elemental analysis of glass by LIBS provides a discrimination power greater than 97% (>98% when combined with refractive index data), which was comparable to the discrimination powers obtained by LA-ICP-MS and μXRF. These results indicate that LIBS is a feasible alternative to the more expensive LA-ICP-MS and μXRF options for the routine forensic analysis of window glass s les.
A further study to investigate the detection and enhancement of latent fingerprints using visible absorption and luminescence chemical imaging
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2004.06.036
Abstract: This study investigated the application of chemical imaging to the detection of latent fingerprints using the Condor macroscopic chemical imaging system (ChemImage Corp., Pittsburgh, USA). Methods were developed and optimised for the visualisation of untreated latent fingerprints and fingerprints processed with DFO, ninhydrin, cyanoacrylate, and cyanoacrylate plus rhodamine 6G stain. The results obtained with chemical imaging were compared to the detection achieved using conventional imaging techniques. The Condor significantly improved the detection of many prints, especially those that might be considered poor quality or borderline prints. Prints on newspaper treated with ninhydrin and DFO, and prints on white and yellow paper treated with ninhydrin, benefited the most from chemical imaging detection. In many cases, fingerprints undetectable using conventional imaging techniques could be visualised with chemical imaging. Ridge detail from untreated prints on yellow paper was also detected using the Condor. When prints of high quality were examined, both detection techniques produced quality results. The results of this project demonstrate that chemical imaging offers advantages over conventional visualisation techniques when examining latent fingerprints, especially those that would be considered difficult, such as weak prints or prints on surfaces that produce highly luminescent backgrounds. Standard testing procedures for the detection and enhancement of fingerprints by chemical imaging are presented and discussed.
Vacuum metal deposition: developing latent fingerprints on polyethylene substrates after the deposition of excess gold
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2001
DOI: 10.1016/S0379-0738(01)00507-2
Abstract: A previously identified difficulty with the development of latent fingerprints on low-density polyethylene (LDPE) by vacuum metal deposition (VMD) is that excess gold deposition prevents effective zinc deposition and so inhibits latent print development [1]. The investigation of a means to correct for excess gold deposition was the basis for this study. Exposure to zinc and the readmission of air into the vacuum chamber followed by VMD development results in the deactivation of the initial gold clusters due to the formation of zinc oxide and the adsorption of air and water molecules. As a result, the majority of the gold deposited during the second treatment creates new gold clusters rather than adding to the gold clusters previously formed. After excess gold deposition on LDPE, the deposition of 1.5 times the optimum gold amount will result in good-quality normal development. The results also indicate that, on all surfaces, at least twice the initial gold count should be used for re-treatment when further development is required after air has been readmitted to the chamber.
Substituted naphthoquinones as novel amino acid sensitive reagents for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper surfaces
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2010.07.064
Abstract: In this paper, we present our preliminary studies into naphthoquinones as novel reagents for the detection of latent fingermarks on paper. Latent fingermarks deposited on paper substrates were treated with solutions of selected naphthoquinones in ethyl acetate/HFE-7100, with subsequent heating. The selected compounds were 1,4-dihydroxy-2-naphthoic acid, 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulfonate, 2-methoxy-1,4-naphthoquinone and 2-methyl-1,4-naphthoquinone. All of the tested compounds yielded purple-brown visible fingermarks, which also exhibited photoluminescence when illuminated with a high intensity filtered light source at 555 nm and viewed through red goggles. Indirect heat using an oven at 150°C for 1h was found to be superior to direct heat with an iron, which while providing faster development lead to increased levels of background colouration. Luminescence spectrophotometry revealed differences in photoluminescence characteristics for fingermarks developed with the different naphthoquinones, with excitation over the range 530-590 nm. Luminescence spectrophotometry of developed lysine, glycine and serine spots on paper was used to confirm that the naphthoquinones were reacting with amino acids in the latent fingermark.
Soil examination for a forensic trace evidence laboratory–Part 3:A proposed protocol for the effective triage and management of soil examinations
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2016.02.034
Abstract: In the past, forensic soil examination was a routine aspect of forensic trace evidence examinations. The apparent need for soil examinations then went through a period of decline and with it the capability of many forensic laboratories to carry out soil examinations. In more recent years, interest in soil examinations has been renewed due-at least in part-to soil examinations contributing to some high profile investigations. However, much of this renewed interest has been in organisations with a primary interest in soil and geology rather than forensic science. We argue the need to reinstate soil examinations as a trace evidence sub-discipline within forensic science laboratories and present a pathway to support this aim. An examination procedure is proposed that includes: (i) appropriate s le collection and storage by qualified crime scene examiners (ii) exclusionary soil examinations by trace evidence scientists within a forensic science laboratory (iii) inclusionary soil examinations by trace evidence scientists within a forensic science laboratory and (iv) higher-level examination of soils by specialist soil scientists and palynologists. Soil examinations conducted by trace evidence scientists will be facilitated if the examinations are conducted using the instrumentation routinely used by these examiners. Hence, the proposed examination protocol incorporates instrumentation in routine use in a forensic trace evidence laboratory. Finally, we report on an Australian soil scene variability study and a blind trial that demonstrate the utility of the proposed protocol for the effective triage and management of soil s les by forensic laboratories.
Investigation of some of the factors influencing fingermark detection
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2018.06.014
Abstract: The primary aims of fingermark detection research are to improve the quality and increase the rate of detection of identifiable impressions. This is usually performed through the development of new methods and technologies to provide alternatives to or improve current procedures. While research of this nature is important to pursue, it fails to address the underlying question related to the factors that affect the detection of a latent fingermark. There has been significant research that has examined the differences between techniques, donors and fingermark age, as well as the composition of latent fingermarks. However, they tend not to focus on determining how these factors influence the quality of the developed mark. This study involved the development and evaluation of over 14,000 natural fingermarks deposited on a variety of surfaces to examine the effect of substrate, age, donor variability (both inter- and intra-), depletions and type of finger on fingermark development. Fingermarks were deposited on four substrates (two non-porous and two porous) and developed with either indanedione-zinc (IND-Zn) or cyanoacrylate followed by rhodamine 6G staining (CA+R6G). Three independent assessors graded each mark on the quality of development using an absolute scale proposed by the UK Centre for Applied Science and Technology (CAST). The data generated from these assessments were then analysed for trends or other useful insights. The results from this work reaffirm that in idual substrate characteristics (and the choice of development technique) play a significant role in determining the number and quality of marks developed. It was found that fingermarks were more likely to be detected on porous substrates and to also be of a higher quality than on non-porous. The effect of fingermark donor variability was also explored, with significant differences observed between donors and within donors. This research shows that current detection techniques do not detect all available fingermarks, reinforcing the need for further research into the fundamentals of fingermark detection in order to gain a better understanding of the techniques currently used. The study has identified considerations for the development of novel techniques and how we need to account for variability when designing fingermark research experiments.
Evaluation of different sampling media for their potential use as a combined swab for the collection of both organic and inorganic explosive residues
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2012.05.006
Abstract: Commercially available skin cleansing alcohol wipes and conventional swabs were investigated for their use as a universal s ling medium for the simultaneous collection of both organic and inorganic explosive residues. Six compounds with the potential to be encountered in casework [pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX), triacetone triperoxide (TATP), ammonium nitrate, and sodium chlorate] were selected as representative target compounds. Quantities of these target compounds were deposited on four different substrates (glass, plastic, aluminium foil and laminate). Two chosen alcohol wipes demonstrated better overall performance in the recovery of both the organic and inorganic representative compounds from each of the test surfaces compared to the results obtained using conventional cotton and polyester swabs, pre-moistened with various solvents, and a direct methanol wash (used as a control). Results obtained using dry cotton swabs indicated that it was not an effective swabbing system for the collection of both organic and inorganic explosive residues on common substrates.
An FTIR method for the analysis of crude and heavy fuel oil asphaltenes to assist in oil fingerprinting
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2016.07.018
Abstract: A proof-of-concept spectroscopic method for crude and heavy fuel oil asphaltenes was developed to complement existing methods for source determination of oil spills. Current methods rely on the analysis of the volatile fraction of oils by Gas Chromatography (GC), whilst the non-volatile fraction, including asphaltenes, is discarded. By discarding the non-volatile fraction, important oil fingerprinting information is potentially lost. Ten oil s les representing various geographical regions were used in this study. The asphaltene fraction was precipitated from the oils using excess n-pentane, and analysed by Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR). Based on visual interpretation of FTIR spectra along with peak height ratio comparisons, all ten oil s les could be differentiated from one another. Furthermore, ATR-FTIR was not able to differentiate a weathered crude oil s le from its source s le, demonstrating significant potential for the application of asphaltenes in oil fingerprinting.
Fingermark detection on non-porous and semi-porous surfaces using NaYF4:Er,Yb up-converter particles
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2010.09.020
Abstract: This article describes the first use of an anti-Stokes material, or up-converter, for the development of latent fingermarks on a range of non-porous surfaces. Anti-Stokes materials can absorb long-wavelength light and emit light at a shorter wavelength. This property is unusual in both natural and artificial materials and so fingermark detection techniques based on anti-Stokes luminescence are potentially sensitive and selective. Latent fingermarks on luminescent and non-luminescent substrates, including Australian polymer banknotes (a well-known 'difficult' surface), were developed with sodium yttrium tetrafluoride doped with erbium and ytterbium (NaYF(4):Er,Yb) by dry powder, wet powder, and cyanoacrylate staining techniques. This study illustrates the potential of up-converter phosphors for the detection of latent fingermarks.
Latent fingermark detection using functionalised silicon oxide nanoparticles: Method optimisation and evaluation
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2019.02.038
Abstract: The application of nanoparticles for latent fingermark detection has been reported in the literature over the past two decades. One of the nanoparticles that shows promise to become a routine technique is functionalised silicon oxide nanoparticles (SiO
Why do we need a systems thinking approach to military forensic science in the contemporary world?
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-09-2020
Forensic applications of isotope ratio mass spectrometry - A review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2005.03.012
Abstract: The key role of a forensic scientist is to assist in determining whether a crime has been committed, and if so, assist in the identification of the offender. Many people hold the belief that a particular item can be conclusively linked to a specific person, place or object. Unfortunately, this is often not achievable in forensic science. In performing their role, scientists develop and test hypotheses. The significance of those hypotheses that cannot be rejected upon completion of all available examinations/analyses is then evaluated. Although one can generally identify the substances present using available techniques, it is generally not possible to distinguish one source of the same substance from another. In such circumstances, although a particular hypothesis cannot be rejected, it cannot be conclusively proven, i.e. the s les could still have originated from different sources. This limitation of not being able to distinguish between sources currently extends to the analysis of other forensic s les including, but not limited to, ignitable liquids, paints, adhesives, textile fibres, plastics, and illicit drugs. Stable isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) is an additional technique that can be utilised to test a given hypothesis. This technique shows the potential to be able to in idualise a range of materials of forensic interest. This paper provides a brief description of the technique, followed by a review of the various applications of IRMS in different scientific fields. The focus of this summary is on forensic applications of IRMS, in particular the analysis of explosives, ignitable liquids and illicit drugs.
Developing a strategic forensic science risk management system as a component of the forensic science system of systems
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 03-09-2020
Visible and near-infrared chemical imaging methods for the analysis of selected forensic samples
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 15-08-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2005.03.042
Abstract: This study investigated various chemical imaging methods for the forensic analysis of paints, tapes and adhesives, inks and firearm propellants (absorption and photoluminescence in the UV-vis-NIR regions). Results obtained using chemical imaging technology were compared with those obtained using traditional techniques. The results show that chemical imaging offers significant advantages in the forensic context, for ex le the ability to display visual and spectral results side by side and to reduce s le preparation, hence minimizing the risk of contamination. Chemical imaging produced a greater discriminating power than traditional techniques for most evidence types. Chemical imaging also eliminated different brands of ammunition based on the fluorescence characteristics of the propellant grains preserving the evidence for further analysis. It is expected that this technology will find broader forensic applications in the future.
Optimisation and evaluation of 1,2-indanedione for use as a fingermark reagent and its application to real samples
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2006.06.006
Abstract: 1,2-indanedione is an emerging fingermark reagent used on porous surfaces. The general consensus is that this reagent is at least as sensitive as DFO, with some research showing higher sensitivity for 1,2-indanedione as opposed to DFO. However, a number of discrepancies existed in the literature as to which formulation and which development procedure produces optimal results. This project set out to investigate the best formulation and development procedure under Australian conditions, encompassing all published recommendations as well as some novel approaches. 1,2-indanedione formulations were compared with respect to initial colour, fluorescence, concentration of reagent, acetic acid concentration, and the effect of different carrier solvents. Numerous development conditions were investigated, including a conventional oven, a heat press and humidity. Further enhancement using metal salt treatment and liquid nitrogen was also evaluated. The heat press set at 165 degrees C for 10s proved to give the best initial colour and most intense luminescence. Secondary metal salt treatment improved initial colour and luminescence. The Polilight, the VSC 2000, and the Condor Chemical Imaging macroscope have been used to detect the fingerprints developed with 1,2-indanedione on a variety of high- and low-quality porous and semi-porous surfaces, with impressive results overall. Laboratory and field tests were conducted to compare 1,2-indanedione with DFO and ninhydrin as well as to investigate the position of 1,2-indanedione in the sequence of reagents for fingermark detection on porous surfaces. Overall, 1,2-indanedione proved to be a viable alternative to traditional methods for the detection of fingermarks on porous surfaces, with more fingermarks being developed using this reagent on real s les than both DFO and ninhydrin and a combination of the two reagents.
Forensic analysis of explosives using isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) - part 2 : forensic inter-laboratory trial : bulk carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in a range of chemical compounds (Australia and New Zealand)
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1111/J.1556-4029.2009.01242.X
Abstract: Comparability of data over time and between laboratories is a key issue for consideration in the development of global databases, and more broadly for quality assurance in general. One mechanism that can be utilized for evaluating traceability is an inter-laboratory trial. This paper addresses an inter-laboratory trial conducted across a number of Australian and New Zealand isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) laboratories. The main objective of this trial was to determine whether IRMS laboratories in these countries would record comparable values for the distributed s les. Four carbon containing and four nitrogen containing compounds were distributed to seven laboratories in Australia and one in New Zealand. The laboratories were requested to analyze the s les using their standard procedures. The data from each laboratory was evaluated collectively using International Standard ISO 13528 (Statistical methods for use in proficiency testing by inter-laboratory comparisons). "Warning signals" were raised against one participant in this trial. "Action signals" requiring corrective action were raised against four participants. These participants reviewed the data and possible sources for the discrepancies. This inter-laboratory trial was successful in providing an initial snapshot of the potential for traceability between the participating laboratories. The statistical methods described in this article could be used as a model for others needing to evaluate stable isotope results derived from multiple laboratories, e.g., inter-laboratory trials roficiency testing. Ongoing trials will be conducted to improve traceability across the Australian and New Zealand IRMS community.
Quartz grain surface textures of soils and sediments from Canberra, Australia: A forensic reconstruction tool
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 09-2010
PolyCyano UV: an investigation into a one-step luminescent cyanoacrylate fuming process
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-03-2014
The influence of polymer type, print donor and age on the quality of fingerprints developed on plastic substrates using vacuum metal deposition
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2001
DOI: 10.1016/S0379-0738(01)00593-X
Abstract: This study investigated fingerprint development on five different polymer substrates using vacuum metal deposition (VMD). The conditions required for optimum development are shown to depend on a number of factors. No one set of conditions will result in good development in all situations. Polymer type has been confirmed as a major factor in determining the types of development that will occur and the optimum VMD conditions required. For more consistently successful VMD development, polymer type should be determined before selecting conditions. While polymer type is a key factor in determining optimum development conditions, there may be variation of the optimum conditions within a polymer type, most likely due to the presence of additives in the plastic. The heaviness of a latent print, i.e. amount of residue that constitutes the print, also affects the VMD conditions required. The donor, manner of deposition, and age of a print affect the heaviness of the deposit. The heavier the print, the higher the gold count necessary for successful VMD development. The occurrence of 'empty prints' (i.e. zinc deposition on the general background but not on or between the print ridges) was found to be related to polymer type and print heaviness. Heavy prints on PVC and PET are the most likely to be 'empty' after VMD treatment. The development of empty prints may be due to the diffusion of print residue into the print valleys. Pre-treatment with cyanoacrylate fuming was also found to affect VMD development. In particular, it was shown that cyanoacrylate pre-treatment was beneficial for print development on PET and PVC. The results of this study were used to formulate guidelines for use as an aid by laboratories using VMD in casework.
Investigation of hydrogen cyanide generation from the cyanoacrylate fuming process used for latent fingermark detection
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2011.06.004
Abstract: Cyanoacrylate fuming is one of the most common techniques employed for the detection of latent fingermarks on non-porous surfaces such as plastic and glass. The technique is generally applied by exposing items of interest to the vapours generated by heating a suitable quantity of commercial cyanoacrylate adhesive. In this study, the potential for highly toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) to be generated from the overheating of cyanoacrylate was investigated. Two commercial cyanoacrylate adhesives and two quantitative methods for the determination of HCN were employed: (i) the sodium picrate method and (ii) the picrate-resorcinol method. (13)C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis was used to confirm the presence of cyanide. In addition, the thermal decomposition of cyanoacrylate was studied using simultaneous thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TGA-DTA). It was determined that detectable and quantifiable amounts of HCN were generated from the thermal decomposition of cyanoacrylate monomer and polymer at temperatures as low as 200 °C. Using an optimised picrate-resorcinol method, it was shown that around 10 μg of HCN could be generated from the heating of 1g of cyanoacrylate monomer at 200 °C. For one of the adhesives tested, this increased to above 100 μg of HCN when 1g of cyanoacrylate monomer was heated at 280 °C. Recommendations are provided that, if followed, should ensure that the cyanoacrylate fuming process can be safely applied with minimal risk to the operator.
The effect of zinc chloride, humidity and the substrate on the reaction of 1,2-indanedione-zinc with amino acids in latent fingermark secretions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2011.06.005
Abstract: Anecdotal evidence from forensic practitioners and studies conducted under controlled conditions have indicated that the reaction between 1,2-indanedione and the amino acids present in latent fingermark deposits is highly susceptible to ambient humidity. The addition of catalytic amounts of zinc chloride to the 1,2-indanedione working solution--usually in the order of 1:25 to 1:4 molar ratio (indanedione:zinc)--significantly improves the colour and luminescence of fingermarks treated under dry conditions but appears to have a negligible effect on fingermarks treated in humid environments. The results presented in this paper confirmed that zinc(II) ions added to the 1,2-indanedione working solution act as a Lewis acid catalyst, stabilising a key intermediate during a rate-limiting hydrolysis step. Furthermore, studying the reaction using a chromatography-grade cellulose substrate method previously reported confirmed that cellulose substrates play a major role in facilitating the indanedione-amino acid reaction by acting as a surface catalyst in the early stages of the reaction and by directing the formation of the desired luminescent product (Joullié's Pink).
Single metal deposition versus physical developer: A comparison between two advanced fingermark detection techniques
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2018.10.032
Abstract: Single metal deposition (SMD II) is a fingermark detection technique based on the use of colloidal gold. The technique has been simplified and optimised over the years to become more reliable, sensitive and user-friendly. Physical developer (PD) is a well-established detection method based on silver deposition from a redox solution. This study presents an extensive comparison of SMD II against PD for fingermark detection on porous substrates. The two techniques were compared as (i) standalone methods, (ii) in sequence after the application of routine amino acids reagents (1,2-indanedione/zinc followed by ninhydrin), and (iii) after the substrates have been wet. More than 1000 fingermark specimens were processed. Overall, the performance of SMD II was judged to be inferior to that of PD therefore, SMD II cannot be recommended as a valid replacement for fingermark detection on porous substrates. Indanedione/zinc and ninhydrin application negatively impacts on SMD II performance and the technique gave inconsistent results across the selected range of porous substrates. Moreover, the detected fingermarks lacked contrast making their visualisation difficult. However, even if PD remains the technique of choice, SMD II showed significant potential. It proved to be less affected by donor variability and it can be applied on both porous and non-porous substrates. It did not lead to uncontrolled background staining that commonly occurs with PD. If contrast and consistency issues can be addressed in future research, SMD II may become a viable alternative to PD.
An Overview of Biosecurity in Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-02-2014
Fingerprint detection: future prospects
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2007
Styryl dye coated metal oxide powders for the detection of latent fingermarks on non-porous surfaces
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2012.01.006
Abstract: Conventional fingermark powders rely on contrast induced by absorption/reflection (e.g. black powder) or luminescence in the visible region (e.g. Blitz Green(®)). In most cases, these powders provide sufficient contrast however, in some circumstances surface characteristics can interfere with the visualisation of powdered fingermarks. Visualisation in the near infra-red (NIR) region, however, has been shown to eliminate interferences commonly encountered in the visible region. In this study, a mixture of rhodamine 6G and the NIR laser dye styryl 11 (STaR 11) was coated onto an aluminium oxide nanopowder and then mixed with silver magnetic powder to develop and visualise fingermarks in the NIR. When compared to Blitz Green(®), it was determined that the STaR 11 magnetic powder was better suited for marks deposited on textured surfaces and for older marks, whereas Blitz Green(®) performed better on smooth glossy surfaces. The ability of the STaR 11 mixed dye formulation to be visualised in both the visible and NIR regions also provides a significant advantage over conventional luminescent fingermark powders.
Forensic application of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for the discrimination of questioned documents
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2015.07.003
Abstract: Document examination is an important forensic discipline and the legal system regularly needs the knowledge and skills of the scientific expert when questioned documents are involved in criminal or civil matters. Amongst the many aspects of the scientific examination of documents, elemental analysis can provide useful results. In this study, the evaluation of the analytical performance of a commercially available laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument was conducted on office papers, writing inks, inkjet inks and laser printer toners. The paper s le set analysed consisted of 33 Australian paper specimens originating from the same production plant but representing different brands and/or batches. In addition, a total of 131 ink or toner s les were examined that included black and blue ballpoint inks, black inkjet inks, and black laser printer toners originating from several manufacturing sources, models and/or batches. Results from the LIBS method were compared against those obtained using more established elemental profiling method such as laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). LIBS demonstrated detectable and significant differences between different batches of the same brand as well as between different brands of paper, ink and toner s les. The LIBS method provided comparable discrimination powers for the selected s le sets when compared to those obtained using LA-ICP-MS (discrimination from 99.8 and 100% of the s le pairs, depending on the s le subset under examination). LIBS is a suitable technique for the determination of elemental composition as part of a protocol for the examination of questioned documents.
A novel biphenyl from the lichen Psoroma contortum
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 1984
DOI: 10.1071/CH9841531
Abstract: The isolation, structural elucidation and synthesis of 1,1'-(2,2'-dihydroxy-4,4',6,6'-tetramethoxy-5,5'- dimethylbiphenyl-3,3'-diyl)bisethanone (contortin) (7), an unusual lichen metabolite probably derived biogenetically by C-C phenolic coupling of two units of C-methylphloroacetophenone, is reported. Spectroscopic data on contortin allowed the structure to be limited to two possibilities, and these were distinguished by total synthesis.
Assessing the development of global competence in teacher education programmes: internal consistency and reliability of a set of rubrics
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 26-05-2023
Modern statistical models for forensic fingerprint examinations: A critical review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.07.005
Abstract: Over the last decade, the development of statistical models in support of forensic fingerprint identification has been the subject of increasing research attention, spurned on recently by commentators who claim that the scientific basis for fingerprint identification has not been adequately demonstrated. Such models are increasingly seen as useful tools in support of the fingerprint identification process within or in addition to the ACE-V framework. This paper provides a critical review of recent statistical models from both a practical and theoretical perspective. This includes analysis of models of two different methodologies: Probability of Random Correspondence (PRC) models that focus on calculating probabilities of the occurrence of fingerprint configurations for a given population, and Likelihood Ratio (LR) models which use analysis of corresponding features of fingerprints to derive a likelihood value representing the evidential weighting for a potential source.
Establishing a universal swabbing and clean-up protocol for the combined recovery of organic and inorganic explosive residues
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2012.08.017
Abstract: A single-step solvent extraction and a solid-phase extraction (SPE) clean-up procedure was developed and optimised in order to establish a universal s ling and clean-up protocol for the combined recovery of organic and inorganic explosive residues. Mixtures of three common swabbing solvents (acetone, acetonitrile and methanol) with water, in various ratios, were assessed for the extraction of four target organic explosives [pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (RDX) and triacetone triperoxide (TATP)] and two inorganic anions (chlorate and nitrate) from alcohol wipes that were used as a swabbing medium. An efficient, single-step extraction of both organic and inorganic compounds from the wipes was achieved using 60% v/v methanol/water. To develop a clean-up procedure, four commercially available SPE cartridges (Oasis HLB, Isolute(®) C18, Bond-Elut(®) ENV and ABS ELUT Nexus) and an in-house packed XAD-7 cartridge were firstly evaluated for their retention capacity toward three organic explosives (PETN, TNT and RDX) in a mixture of methanol and water. A SPE technique was then developed and optimised from the short-listed sorbents with four representative organic explosives (including TATP). The Nexus cartridge was found to provide a suitable sorbent for extract clean-up following swab extraction with 60% v/v methanol/water. By incorporating the optimised clean-up procedure with the application of a polyester-based alcohol wipe as a s ling medium, a universal swabbing protocol for the combined recovery of both organic and inorganic explosive residues was established. The feasibility of the proposed protocol was assessed by collection and quantitation of the residue from a mixture of TNT, PETN and chlorate deposited on a laminate test surface.
A GC–MS database of target compound chromatograms for the identification of arson accelerants
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 1995
Case study–crown prosecution of a British citizen for the extraterritorial murder of Sergeant First Class Randy Johnson, United States 2nd Cavalry Regiment
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 22-07-2021
Enhancement of latent fingermarks on non-porous surfaces using anti-l-amino acidantibodies conjugated to gold nanoparticles
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2011
DOI: 10.1039/C0CC05748G
Abstract: This anti- l -amino acid antibody system can enhance aged eccrine-rich latent fingermarks on non-porous surfaces, an area unexploited by current techniques.
Selective targeting of fingermarks using immunogenic techniques
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2013
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