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Matuszewski S, Mądra-Bielewicz A. Field validation of post-mortem interval estimation based on insect development. Part 1: Accuracy gains from the laboratory rearing of insect evidence. Forensic Sci Int 2024; 354:111902. [PMID: 38088001 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2023.111902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
There is a consensus that forensic methods must be valid. The high quality of the method may be fully demonstrated only through validation. Unfortunately, there are very few experimental or casework validations of entomological methods for estimating post-mortem interval (PMI). Here, we present the first part of the results from the field validation of minimum PMI (PMImin) estimates based on insect development. From eight pig carcasses (24-46.4 kg) exposed in a forest habitat of Western Poland, one every one or two months, we collected insect evidence with standard entomological techniques. Using weather station temperatures and the thermal summation method, PMImin was estimated based on insect life stages that were reared under controlled laboratory conditions. Through rearing an insect until the next developmental landmark (or until eclosion), its age at the time of collection (and eventually PMImin) may be estimated by subtracting thermal accumulation in the laboratory from the corresponding thermal constant. We hypothesized that rearing insect evidence significantly improves the accuracy of PMImin compared to the estimation based on non-reared insect evidence. The results clearly supported this hypothesis. However, the accuracy significantly increased only in the case of these insects that developed normally during rearing. When their development in the laboratory was prolonged, PMImin was significantly less accurate. For the normal development sample the accuracy improved in all species and life stages. The largest accuracy gains from rearing were recorded for Calliphora vomitoria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Stearibia nigriceps (Diptera: Piophilidae). Moreover, when puparia or third instar larvae were reared, gains were larger than in the case of earlier life stages. In conclusion, this study demonstrated that the method of rearing insect evidence to improve the accuracy of PMImin is valid. However, it needs to be used with caution, since substantial part of the evidence may die or slow down their development in the laboratory, which violates assumptions of the method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Matuszewski
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Święty Marcin 90, 61-809 Poznań, Poland; Wielkopolska Centre for Advanced Technologies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland.
| | - Anna Mądra-Bielewicz
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Święty Marcin 90, 61-809 Poznań, Poland; Wielkopolska Centre for Advanced Technologies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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Heavey AL, Turbett GR, Houck MM, Lewis SW. Management and disclosure of quality issues in forensic science: A survey of current practice in Australia and New Zealand. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 7:100339. [PMID: 37415607 PMCID: PMC10320494 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The investigation of quality issues detected within the forensic process is a critical feature in robust quality management systems to provide assurance of the validity of reported results and inform strategies for continuous improvement and innovation. A survey was conducted to gain insight into the current state of practice in the management and handling of quality issues amongst the government service provider agencies of Australia and New Zealand. The results demonstrate the value of standardised quality system structures for the recording and management of quality issues, but also areas where inconsistent reporting increases the risk of overlooking important data to inform continuous improvement. With new international changes requiring mandatory reporting of quality issues, this highlights compliance challenges that agencies will face. This study reinforces the need for further research into the standardisation of systems underpinning the management of quality issues in forensic science to support transparent and reliable justice outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna L. Heavey
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Gavin R. Turbett
- Forensic Biology Department, PathWest Laboratory Medicine WA, Nedlands, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Max M. Houck
- Global Forensic and Justice Center, Florida International University, Largo, FL, USA
| | - Simon W. Lewis
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Curtin University, Bentley, Western Australia, Australia
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Aalbers SE, Khan AT, Weir BS. Perceptions of forensic scientists on statistical models, sequence data, and ethical implications for DNA evidence evaluations: A qualitative assessment. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2023; 6:100335. [PMID: 37325613 PMCID: PMC10265457 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2023.100335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
With the introduction of next generation sequencing (NGS) technology in the forensic field, it will be of interest to assess if forensic scientists feel equipped to interpret and present DNA evidence for sequence data. Here, we describe perceptions of sixteen U.S.-based forensic scientists on statistical models, sequence data, and ethical implications for DNA evidence evaluations. To get an in-depth understanding of the current situation, we used a qualitative research approach with a cross-sectional study design. Semi-structured interviews (N = 16) were conducted with U.S. forensic scientists working with DNA evidence. Open-ended interview questions were used to explore participants' views and needs surrounding the use of statistical models and sequence data for forensic purposes. We conducted a conventional content analysis using ATLAS. ti software and employed a second coder to ensure reliability of our results. Eleven themes emerged: 1) a statistical model that maximizes the value of the evidence is preferred; 2) a high-level understanding of the statistical model used is generally sufficient; 3) transparency is key in minimizing the risk of creating black boxes; 4) training and education should be an ongoing effort; 5) the effectiveness of presenting results in court can be improved; 6) NGS has the potential to become revolutionary; 7) some hesitations surrounding the use of sequence data remain; 8) there is a need for a concrete plan to alleviate barriers to the implementation of sequencing techniques; 9) ethics plays a major part in the role of a forensic scientist; 10) ethical barriers for sequence data depend on the application; 11) DNA evidence has its limitations. The results of this study give insight into the perceptions of forensic scientists regarding the use of statistical models and sequence data, providing valuable information in the move towards implementing sequencing methods for DNA evidence evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne E. Aalbers
- Institute for Public Health Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Alyna T. Khan
- Institute for Public Health Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Bruce S. Weir
- Institute for Public Health Genetics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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Airlie M, Robertson J, Ma W, Airlie D, Brooks E. A novel application of deep learning to forensic hair analysis methodology. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2022.2159064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Airlie
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
- Major Crime Unit, Forensic Services Group, Queensland Police Service, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - James Robertson
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Wanli Ma
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - David Airlie
- Global Engineering, Red Hat, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Brooks
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
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Lepot L, Vanhouche M, Vanden Driessche T, Lunstroot K. Interpol review of fibres and textiles 2019-2022. Forensic Sci Int Synerg 2022; 6:100307. [PMID: 36588587 PMCID: PMC9794884 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsisyn.2022.100307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Extended reality (XR) virtual practical and educational eGaming to provide effective immersive environments for learning and teaching in forensic science. Sci Justice 2022; 62:696-707. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
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Aberle MG, Kobus H, Robertson J, O'Driscoll C, Hoogewerff JA. A fresh scientific look at transfer and persistence: From a materials science and tribology perspective. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:9-27. [PMID: 34369592 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Knowledge of the mechanisms governing transfer, persistence, and recovery of trace evidence, together with background prevalence in the population of interest, and other task relevant information, is key for the forensic interpretation and reconstruction of what happened at the activity level. Up to now, this informational "toolkit" has largely been developed through empirical forensic studies on specific trace materials such as glass, textile fibers, and soil. Combined with the identified systemic siloing between disciplines, while valuable, such research tends to be very material-dependent, introducing specific parameters and interpretations that may have actually impeded the recognition of underlying foundational factors applicable to most material types. In Australia, there has been a renewed interest in developing a discipline-independent framework for the interpretation and/or reconstruction of trace evidence to interpret specific circumstances in casework. In this paper, we present a discipline agnostic "way of thinking" that has been anchored in foundational science underpinning the trace evidence discipline. Physical and mechanical material properties such as material geometry and surface topography, strength, stiffness, and hardness collectively influence contact interactions through underlying friction, wear, and lubrication cause and effect mechanisms. We discuss how these fundamental factors and parameters stemming from materials science and tribology may be adopted and adapted by forensic practitioners and researchers to contribute to a better understanding of transfer, persistence, and recovery mechanisms irrespective of evidence discipline and material type. Examples are provided to demonstrate the practical significance to real-life casework and academic research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael G Aberle
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Hilton Kobus
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia.,Flinders University, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - James Robertson
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Caroline O'Driscoll
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia.,Australian Federal Police, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Jurian A Hoogewerff
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
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Kathane P, Singh A, Gaur J, Krishan K. The development, status and future of forensics in India. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2021.100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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