Transmission infrared imaging microscopy and multivariate curve resolution applied to the forensic examination of automotive paints.

In the forensic examination of automotive paint, each layer of paint is analyzed individually by infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Laboratories in North America typically hand section each layer and present each separated layer to the spectrometer for analysis, which is time consuming. In addition, sampling too close to the boundary between adjacent layers can pose a problem as it produces an IR spectrum that is a mixture of the two layers.

Pattern Recognition-Assisted Infrared Library Searching of the Paint Data Query Database to Enhance Lead Information from Automotive Paint Trace Evidence.

Multilayered automotive paint fragments, which are one of the most complex materials encountered in the forensic science laboratory, provide crucial links in criminal investigations and prosecutions. To determine the origin of these paint fragments, forensic automotive paint examiners have turned to the paint data query (PDQ) database, which allows the forensic examiner to compare the layer sequence and color, texture, and composition of the sample to paint systems of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). However, modern automotive paints have a thin color coat and this layer on a microscopic fragment is often too thin to obtain accurate chemical and topcoat color information.

Evidential significance of automotive paint trace evidence using a pattern recognition based infrared library search engine for the Paint Data Query Forensic Database.

A prototype library search engine has been further developed to search the infrared spectral libraries of the paint data query database to identify the line and model of a vehicle from the clear coat, surfacer-primer, and e-coat layers of an intact paint chip. For this study, search prefilters were developed from 1181 automotive paint systems spanning 3 manufacturers: General Motors, Chrysler, and Ford. The best match between each unknown and the spectra in the hit list generated by the search prefilters was identified using a cross-correlation library search algorithm that performed both a forward and backward search.

Objectively measured sleep patterns in young adult women and the relationship to adiposity.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between sleep patterns and adiposity in young adult women.

Design: Cross-sectional.

Setting: The study took place at two Mountain West region universities and surrounding communities.