4th DNA Forensic Symposium: Challenges and future directions in Africa.

The 4th Forensic DNA Symposium in Africa underscored the critical role of regional collaboration in advancing forensic sciences, with a particular focus on forensic DNA examinations, databases, and humanitarian initiatives. The symposium aimed to assess the current forensic DNA capabilities across African countries and develop strategies to expand and better utilize DNA platforms. Key findings from the symposium highlight the necessity for enhanced cooperation among African nations to build robust forensic DNA databases and improve data-sharing mechanisms.

Distinguishing between stamping in blood from walking through blood using blood pattern analysis.

Bloodstains are typically encountered in violent incidents involving the use of a weapon or physical actions, such as punching, kicking, or stamping. Bloodstain pattern analysis can provide inceptive evidence or intelligence about what happened in an alleged incident, the sequence of events, along with indicating possible suspects if blood is analysed through DNA profiling. This research project focused on the differences in patterns created on footwear during a violent action, such as stamping on a person, and a non-violent action, such as walking through a pool of blood.

Developing a virtual laboratory module for forensic science degree programmes.

Laboratory work is essential in forensic science degree courses. They provide students with an opportunity to put theory into practice, as well as develop relevant professional laboratory skills through a case-based learning framework. Traditional laboratory instruction involves the use of a written laboratory script or manual that details the laboratory procedures and techniques for an experiment.

Hydrolysis of Soybean Milk Protein by Papain: Antioxidant, Anti-Angiotensin, Antigenic and Digestibility Perspectives.

The objective of the investigation was to understand the biochemical activities of hydrolysate of soybean milk protein (SMP). Hydrolysis was carried out by different concentrations of papain (0.008 g·L, 0.

Integrity, Trustworthiness, and Effectiveness: Towards an Ethos for Forensic Genetics.

Forensic genetics comes under critical scrutiny when developments challenge previously accepted legal, ethical, social, and other boundaries. Forensic geneticists continue to build a knowledge culture within a community of practice that acknowledges ethical standards of conduct in both research and the societal application of forensic genetics. As the community further cements and extends its societal role, and in that process often pushing at ethical and legal boundaries, it requires a strong, resilient, and responsive ethos that, in setting clear parameters for conduct, fosters the field's sense of purpose.