A novel method for assessing the shedding of fibre in forensic science: Investigating the effects of washing.

The evaluation of the shedding capacity of a garment is crucial in forensic analysis to understand fibre transfer mechanisms during contact activities. While adhesive tapes are commonly used, the lack of standardised pressure application -often done manually- poses a challenge. In addition, while previous studies have examined the effects of washing on fibre evidence, there is a notable absence in the literature regarding its impact on garment shedding capacity.

Exploring the influence of washing activities on the transfer and persistence of fibres in forensic science.

In forensic science, a robust and sound interpretation and evaluation of transferred fibre evidence requires an understanding of the principles and mechanisms that underpin fibre transfer, yet existing research lacks consistency and repeatability. This study investigates the impact of washing activities on both the release of fibres into wastewater and the transfer of constituent fibres from donor garments to receiver swatches. Using a low-cost friction tester and automated data collection through photography and ImageJ image processing software, controlled conditions were maintained for repeated experiments.

In depth investigation of the capabilities and limitations of combined proteomic-MALDI MS based approach for the forensic detection of blood.

For the past 7 years, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS) based methods have been developed and published for the forensic detection of blood in stains and fingermarks. However, in the view of adoption in an operational context, further investigation into the capabilities and limitations of this approach must be conducted. The refinement and testing of this approach must also be tailored to the requirements of the end users, enabling them to address the specific circumstances most encountered in a forensic scenario.

Validation of presumptive tests for non-human blood using Kastle Meyer and Hemastix reagents.

Kastle Meyer and Hemastix reagents are presumptive tests commonly used in forensic casework for the detection of blood, and their suitability has been reviewed in numerous publications. However, studies to date have focused on the validation of these tests on human blood alone, and no published work has looked at the sensitivity, specificity and effect on DNA analysis when using these reagents to presumptively test for animal blood. The aim of this study was to validate the two reagents for use with animal blood, and compare their performance in order to choose the best test based on the circumstances in wildlife crime investigation.

Profiling in wildlife crime: Recovery of human DNA deposited outside.

Incidents of bird of prey persecution receive a lot of media coverage in the UK, with investigations rarely recovering sufficient evidence to proceed to prosecution. One of the main challenges is to identify a suspect, as these offences are carried out in remote locations without witnesses, and crime scenes may not be found for days. However, traps, poisoned baits and bird of prey carcasses can be recovered from these crime scenes.