Forensic Research Articles

Examining Wrongful Convictions Based on Fingerprint Evidence

Fingerprint evidence has long been seen as a cornerstone of forensic science, valued for its unique traits and reliability. However, some wrongful conviction cases reveal significant flaws in how fingerprint evidence is collected, interpreted, and relied upon, highlighting its limitations. This article reviews key cases like those of Brandon Mayfield, Stephen Cowans, and Shirley McKie, where mistaken interpretations led to serious injustices. Contributing factors to these erroneous convictions include unclear or incomplete prints, personal biases, laboratory errors, and systemic issues within fingerprint databases. Moreover, cognitive biases can influence analysts' judgments, especially in high-stress scenarios. To improve accuracy and ensure justice, the forensic field must refine evidence collection techniques, enhance examiner training, establish reliable databases, include independent witnesses in searches and seizures, record processes with video documentation from scene of crime to the forensic laboratory, and support fingerprint evidence with additional methods along with improved protocols, blind testing, and independent verification to mitigate risks and preserve the reliability of fingerprint evidence in the justice system. While fingerprints remain vital in forensic investigations, it’s crucial to reevaluate their use to prevent future wrongful convictions.

Innovative approaches in complex data forensics: error rate assessment and its impact on cybersecurity

In the realm of cybersecurity, the integrity of forensic investigations is paramount, especially as the volume and complexity of data continue to escalate. This paper explores innovative approaches to complex data forensics, focusing on the methodologies used to assess error rates in data retrieval and analysis. High error rates in forensic processes can compromise the reliability of findings, leading to erroneous conclusions that may impact security measures and legal proceedings. This research examines various techniques for error rate assessment, including statistical methods and data validation protocols, which serve to quantify the accuracy of forensic analysis. Furthermore, the paper discusses the profound implications that high error rates can have on the integrity of forensic findings, emphasizing the need for meticulous attention to detail in data handling and processing. To counter these challenges, we present strategies aimed at enhancing data reliability, such as implementing rigorous quality assurance processes, leveraging machine learning algorithms for anomaly detection, and utilizing advanced encryption methods to protect data integrity throughout the forensic lifecycle. By addressing the critical role of error rate assessment in data forensics, this research contributes to the broader discourse on cybersecurity and underscores the necessity of adopting robust methodologies to ensure accurate and reliable forensic outcomes in an increasingly complex digital landscape.

Environmental microbiota from substrate may interfere with microbiome-based identification of forensically relevant body fluids: A pilot study

The microbiome is a promising tool for identifying body fluids which can be deposited on various substrates at a crime scene. Body fluids collected from crime scenes are not entirely free from substrate microbes whose effects on the microbiome-based identification of body fluids are not well understood. In this study, five body fluids (peripheral blood, menstrual blood, nasal secretions, saliva, and semen) were deposited on sterile swabs, bedspreads, and floors under indoor exposure conditions for 7 days. The microbial communities in the samples were characterized using amplicon sequencing targeted V4 region of 16S rRNA gene. The results showed that the microbial communities of fresh samples deposited on sterile swabs clustered together according to the type of body fluid. The microbial composition of the body fluids deposited on the bedspread and floor is significant different from those deposited on sterile swabs. The microbial communities of mock body fluids were a mixture of microbes from pure body fluids and environmental microbes. FEAST analysis showed that the microbes of mock saliva samples were mainly from pure body fluids (51.53 % and 63.04 % on the bedspread and floor, respectively), but not from substrates (25.70 % and 18.92 % on the bedspread and floor, respectively). Contrary results were observed in peripheral blood, mock nasal secretion, and semen samples. All samples were mainly clustered based on the substrate, but not on the type of body fluid in the PCoA visualization. PERMANOVA results showed that the substrate accounted for more of the variance (R2 = 0.211, P < 0.001) than the type of body fluid (R2 = 0.152, P < 0.001). MicroDecon was used to remove contamination by microbes from the substrate of mock body fluid samples. PCoA and PERMANOVA were performed using decontaminated data. The results showed that samples were no longer clustered based on the substrate, and the type of body fluid (R2 = 0.240, P < 0.001) accounted for more of the variance in the microbial communities of samples than the substrate (R2 = 0.108, P < 0.001). Our results suggest that environmental microbiota from substrates may interfere with the microbiome-based identification of forensically relevant body fluids. To some extent, decontamination could decrease the effects of the substrate on the microbial communities of the samples and enhance the ability to distinguish between the types of body fluids. This pilot study will be valuable in promoting the application of microbiome-based stain analysis in forensics.

Metagenomic sequencing of CRISPRs as a new marker to aid in personal identification with low-biomass samples.

The high specificity of the human skin microbiome is expected to provide a new marker for personal identification. Metagenomic sequencing of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPRs), which we call metaCRISPR typing, was shown to achieve personal identification accurately. However, the intra-individual variability observed in previous studies, which may be due to poor DNA yields from skin samples, has resulted in non-reproducible results. Furthermore, whether metaCRISPR typing can assist in the forensic human DNA analysis of low-biomass samples, from which the information obtained is insufficient, is unknown. In the present study, we sequenced serially diluted control streptococcal CRISPRs cloned into plasmids to determine the minimum copy number required to obtain reproducible results from metaCRISPR typing. We found that at least 102 copies of CRISPRs are necessary to obtain reproducible results. We then analyzed the skin swab samples using both metaCRISPR typing and human DNA typing. When the DNA extracted from the skin swabs was diluted, no information was obtained from six out of eight samples by human DNA typing. On the other hand, beta diversity indices of spacer sequences compared with reference samples were below 0.8 for three out of six samples, for which no information was obtained from human DNA analysis, indicating that the spacers observed in these samples were similar to those in the references. These results indicate that metaCRISPR typing may contribute to the identification of individuals from whom the samples were obtained, even in cases where human DNA yields are insufficient to perform human DNA analysis.IMPORTANCEPrevious studies have developed new personal identification methods utilizing personal differences in the skin microbiome. However, intra-individual diversity of skin microbiome may preclude the application of microbiome-based personal identification. Moreover, no study has compared microbiome-based personal identification and practical human DNA analysis. Here, we revealed that the results of metaCRISPR typing, a previously developed microbiome-based personal identification method, are stable if the copy number of the marker gene is sufficient. We then analyzed the skin swab samples using both metaCRISPR typing and human DNA analysis. Our results indicate that metaCRISPR typing may provide additional information for personal identification using low-biomass samples that cannot be used for conventional human DNA analysis.

Leveraging genetics to support forensic toxicology analysis: Demonstrating concordance among marijuana samples

Cannabis sativa is an important plant for industrial purposes. Indeed, it is legal to cultivate and supply authorized low level Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabis plants for fiber and seeds (i.e., 0.2 % according to the European Union regulation on drugs). Today, chromatography/mass spectrometry-based procedures are successfully applied to determine THC concentration. Unfortunately, when cannabis samples have been degraded because wrongfully stored, toxicological results were affected, altering the final status of legal sample or illegal sample. Rather, genetic identification could give more information about the identity of these plants. For this reason, a degradation study was run to support how genetics can help to detect concordance in cannabis highly-degraded samples. Forty cannabis sub-samples were stored (for one week, two weeks, one month and two months) in auto-sealing bag to assess the effects of a wrong cannabis storage on weight reduction, genomic DNA changes, and corresponding STR profiles. Once respective time-period elapsed, each sub-sample’s weight was measured, the percentage weight loss calculated, and the genomic DNA was extracted and quantified, obtaining a complete STR profile for all samples. Furthermore, the aim of this study was to assess the same 13-loci short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex system used for the degradation experiment and evaluate the power of such markers in the identification and discrimination of highly degraded cannabis samples coming from real cases. The results of this study demonstrated that the 13-loci STR multiplex system successfully achieved the objective both for industry and forensic purposes. For each sample, all 13 loci were amplified, and degraded samples were correctly identified, suggesting that genetic typification could be a useful tool. The proposed procedure could be parallelly applied to toxicology analysis to detect if vegetable sample become from authorized plant, to help courts track back illegal samples or to achieve illegal cannabis genetic profiles for further comparison.

Integrating artificial intelligence in forensic science

Thesis. The thesis of this article is to explore the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) methodology in forensic science. An assessment of the potential implications of AI for improving investigative processes and outcomes will also be addressed. Concept. The concept focuses on exploring the application of AI technologies in ar- eas of science such as analysing evidence recognising patterns and supporting decision- making systems. The article emphasises the practical use of AI algorithms in investiga- tions. on exploring how artificial intelligence technologies can be implemented in various aspects of forensic science. Results. An analysis of existing literature and case studies shows that integrating AI into forensic science can improve efficiency, accuracy, and objectivity in investigations. AI tools can automate tasks analyse datasets and identify patterns that might be challeng- 16 “ABoUT The INTeRNeT” - TheoRy ing for humans to detect. However utilising AI in forensic science poses challenges like algorithms, privacy issues with data handling, and the necessity for oversight. Further- more, when employing intelligence for inquiries it is essential to prioritise transparency, and accountability and uphold integrity in decision-making processes. Originality. This article adds to the discussion about integrating AI into science by of- fering a thorough examination of its potential advantages and obstacles faced along, with ethical concerns. By merging research findings and offering perspectives on emerging trends we can gain insights, into the impact of AI on advancing investigations in the years ahead. Additionally, the theoretical structure presented here establishes a foundation for research studies and practical implementations, within the field of forensic science. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, forensic science, AI applications in forensic science, machine learning for evidence analysis, crime scene reconstruction with AI

The future of AI in medicine and education - 10th anniversary of E- methodology community

Abstract This special edition of the E-methodology journal and conference, marking its 10th anniversary, explores the dynamic intersection of technology, science, and society. Dur- ing a decade we have seen a revolution in the meaning of “e” from being just a digi- tal version of human activity to a totally new world of LLMs (Large Language Models) and other deep learning possibilities. The articles in this volume delve mainly into the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) across diverse fields such as forensic science, education, healthcare, One Health, and public discourse, while examining the broader implications of technology on human life. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, technology, education, medicine

Studies On The Statistical Analysis And Impact Of Seasonal Temperature And Relative Humidity Variation On The Development Of A Flesh Fly Sarcophagadux(Thomson 1869)(Diptera Sarcophagidae)

Background: The fleshfly Sarcophaga dux (Diptera;Sarcophagidae) is found in Indian Sub continent is of limited forensic significance as its poorly known larval development relationship with temperature and relative humidity. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of the temperature and relative humidity in the larval development of this fly in two seasons, Summer and Rain, so that the results of this study may enabling the forensic use of this fly in the estimation of Post Mortem Interval(PMI). Material and Method: The present study was carried out in the outer premises of the Regional Forensic Science Laboratory Building, Jagdalpur, Bastardist,Chhattishgarh, India. The fresh meat of male goat was used for rearing of larvae. The effect of temperature and relative humidity on the larval developmental time of this fly in two seasons, Rainy and Summer were studied in normal condition. Statistical analysis of variance was performed and standard significance level of P&lt;0.05 was taken as standard. Results: The results of this study shown that in Rainy season it was completed in 264 h (11 days) when the average temperature ranged from 21.8°C to 24.5°C and the average humidity ranged from 79.5% to 95.5% where as in Summer it was completed in 528 hrs (22 days), when the temperature ranged from 26.5°C to 35.1°C and the humidity ranged from 34% to 67.5%. The P value was found to be P&lt;&lt;.05 in Temperature variation; andP&lt;&lt;0.05 in Humidity variation in different stages(1st instar larvae, 2nd instar larvae, 3rd instar larvae, Prepupae, Pupae and Adult). Conclusion: In the present study we have found that fluctuating temperature and relative humidity of outer condition in two seasons, Rainy and Summer effect the life cycle duration of the fly from the larvi position up to adult eclosion and statistical analysis has proved it to significant rejecting null hypothesis. This data can be further used in the estimation of Post Mortem Interval (PMI) in Homicide and Suspicious cases of both human and wild life poaching death cases.

The Role of Digital Transformation in the Development of Forensic Science

Digital transformation plays a significant role in the implementation of forensic activities due to significant current expansion of the body of evidence based on study of combined computer information received in the course of legal proceedings. The key areas of forensic activity digital transformation are considered. It is shown that the sizes of special knowledge must obligatory cover a competent understanding of modern information technologies, their functionality and development dynamics as well as their effective use feasibility in forensic activities. The combination of systematic and integrated approaches representing various aspects of expert examination makes it possible to fully implement the principles of its objectivity, comprehensiveness and completeness as key principles of forensic activities. The need in setting up and implementation of strategic projects on improving forensic activities in the context of digital transformation determines the evolvement of digital transformation doctrine of forensic science as one of the theories of forensic expertology.

A multidisciplinary approach to forensic biological profiling on a single tooth and nail sample.

Analysis of a single tooth and nail can provide valuable forensic information, including year of birth, year of death, age, sex, DNA-profile, geographic residence during childhood and at time of death and drug exposure. The aim is to minimize the amount of used bodily material and to validate the applicability of a multidisciplinary sampling protocol. A nail of the big toe, a tooth and blood of seven deceased individuals were collected postmortem. Collected materials were sampled and segmented in accordance with the multidisciplinary sampling protocol. DNA analysis was conducted on the pulp of the tooth, isotope analysis (Sr, Pb, O and C) on the enamel and 14C-, toxicological and tooth cementum annulation analysis on root segments. DNA-, isotope (Sr, Pb, O and C) -, toxicological-, and 14C -analysis were conducted on toenail segments. The acquired DNA profiles were compared with profiles acquired from blood. Material from seven deceased persons was analysed. 45 out of 56 analyses on dental samples were successful, constituting a success rate of 80%. Additionally, 27 out of 35 analyses were successful on nail samples, yielding a success rate of 77%. DNA-, toxicological and 14C- analyses performed better in nail than in tooth. Isotope analyses performed better in tooth than in nail. A profile with personal characteristics was constructed and matched for 62% of parameters with collected medical information. The performed sampling protocol for simultaneous multidisciplinary forensic analysis on a single tooth and nail sample provided applicable results and valuable information.

Development of conductive fingermarks for forensic applications.

Fingermarks are an important form of evidence in forensic science, routinely used for identification or exclusion purposes within the criminal justice system. The increasing use of fingerprint recognition in technology and biosecurity, such as for unlocking devices and accessing banking information, highlights the need for forensic fingermark recovery methods that serve both traditional forensic needs and modern technological demands. Current fingerprint development techniques, however, are not designed to fulfil this dual-purpose. This paper presents a novel approach that introduces the use of conductive paint and silicone to develop, recover, and preserve latent, patent, and plastic fingermarks. The innovative method produces conductive casts that capture detailed ridge patterns, thereby facilitating forensic examination as well as being used for unlocking capacitive and ultrasonic fingerprint scanners in a range of mobile devices.

Enhancing late postmortem interval prediction: a pilot study integrating proteomics and machine learning to distinguish human bone remains over 15 years

BackgroundDetermining the postmortem interval (PMI) accurately remains a significant challenge in forensic sciences, especially for intervals greater than 5 years (late PMI). Traditional methods often fail due to the extensive degradation of soft tissues, necessitating reliance on bone material examinations. The precision in estimating PMIs diminishes with time, particularly for intervals between 1 and 5 years, dropping to about 50% accuracy. This study aims to address this issue by identifying key protein biomarkers through proteomics and machine learning, ultimately enhancing the accuracy of PMI estimation for intervals exceeding 15 years.MethodsProteomic analysis was conducted using LC–MS/MS on skeletal remains, specifically focusing on the tibia and ribs. Protein identification was performed using two strategies: a tryptic-specific search and a semitryptic search, the latter being particularly beneficial in cases of natural protein degradation. The Random Forest algorithm was used to model protein abundance data, enabling the prediction of PMI. A thorough screening process, combining importance scores and SHAP values, was employed to identify the most informative proteins for model’s training and accuracy.ResultsA minimal set of three biomarkers—K1C13, PGS1, and CO3A1—was identified, significantly improving the prediction accuracy between PMIs of 15 and 20 years. The model, based on protein abundance data from semitryptic peptides in tibia samples, achieved sustained 100% accuracy across 100 iterations. In contrast, non-supervised methods like PCA and MCA did not yield comparable results. Additionally, the use of semitryptic peptides outperformed tryptic peptides, particularly in tibia proteomes, suggesting their potential reliability in late PMI prediction.ConclusionsDespite limitations such as sample size and PMI range, this study demonstrates the feasibility of combining proteomics and machine learning for accurate late PMI predictions. Future research should focus on broader PMI ranges and various bone types to further refine and standardize forensic proteomic methodologies for PMI estimation.

From forensic chemistry: an educational experience

Abstract The study of forensic chemical analysis not only aids justice in the investigation of accidental or criminal events but also trains chemistry students in analysing hypothetical scenes, such as the design of scientific experiments, and alerting them to potential dangers. In this way, it contributes to generating awareness about safety and security, ethics, and the professional responsibilities of chemists. These, although ambitious, are some of the objectives that have led to the development of this course on Chemical Analysis in Forensic Investigation, whose thematic units and teaching details are developed. This work presents a detailed programme for the Forensic Chemistry course offered at the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences at the University of Buenos Aires. It includes examples of activities and bibliography, allowing it to be used as a template for similar courses or to adapt some of the thematic units to other chemistry courses. The suggested bibliography supports the education of both students and educators in the field of forensic chemistry. The incorporation of topics such as fires, explosives, chemical warfare agents (CWA), and environmental crimes aims to develop professional profiles for a new generation of chemists more committed to the societal impact of their work.

CoFFEE: a codec-based forensic feature extraction and evaluation software for H.264 videos

The forensic analysis of digital videos is becoming increasingly relevant to deal with forensic cases, propaganda, and fake news. The research community has developed numerous forensic tools to address various challenges, such as integrity verification, manipulation detection, and source characterization. Each tool exploits characteristic traces to reconstruct the video life-cycle. Among these traces, a significant source of information is provided by the specific way in which the video has been encoded. While several tools are available to analyze codec-related information for images, a similar approach has been overlooked for videos, since video codecs are extremely complex and involve the analysis of a huge amount of data. In this paper, we present a new tool designed for extracting and parsing a plethora of video compression information from H.264 encoded files, including macroblocks structure, prediction residuals, and motion vectors. We demonstrate how the extracted features can be effectively exploited to address various forensic tasks, such as social network identification, source characterization, and double compression detection. We provide a detailed description of the developed software, which is released free of charge to enable its use by the research community to create new tools for forensic analysis of video files.

Evolution of Codified Criminal Laws in India: A Voyage from Colonialization to Decolonization

This research paper delves into the profound evaluation of criminal laws in Bharat from the Vedic era to the decolonization of criminal statutes. The narrative begins with evaluating the criminal justice system from the Vedic ages to today's new decolonized criminal laws in India. The paper scrutinizes the various time duration for evaluation of criminal laws in Bharat: Before the Vedic era (Vedas (Rig, Yajur, Sāma, and Atharva), Shrutis, Puranas, and many more), During the Vedic era (Dharamshastra and Arthshastra), Mughal period, British colonial period, and Decolonialization of criminal laws in India. The various objectives behind the decolonization of new criminal laws include Eradication of Colonial-Era law, Offence against the state, Modernization of the criminal justice system, Strengthening Accountability and Rule of Law, and Democratizing the Law. Understanding the evaluation of laws from the colonial era to the decolonization of criminal laws, importing critical legal changes brought under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Act (BSA) in 2023, this study closely observes the backdrop, what inspires the law to launch such amendments and what subtleties result in these alterations. This historical analysis is taken up first that describes the colonial legacy of India's legal system, and how relics of archaic legislations are part of its system even today. With this background, the exam is placed against a backdrop of rising crime and changing characteristics of criminal behaviors occasioned by new technological breakthroughs that require all-around changes. The paper scrutinizes the supreme provisions of the BNSS towards replacing the archaic Code of Criminal Procedure, the BNS which is poised to replace the Indian Penal Code, and the BSA which is to replace the Evidence Act. This report will appraise the major changes in the number of sections that are incorporated into the new schemes, record digitalization, and the inevitable drift towards forensic science and collection of evidence.

Reasons for Potential Unreliability of DNA Evidence: A Critical Examination

DNA evidence is widely regarded as the "gold standard" in forensic science because of its capacity to accurately identify individuals and exonerate the innocent. However, several factors cast doubt on its reliability in criminal investigations. This study offers a comprehensive exploration of critical issues influencing the trustworthiness of DNA evidence, including errors in evidence collection, overlooking additional DNA samples at the crime scene, the absence of credible witnesses during searches, and the lack of video documentation throughout the processes of seizure, transportation, and lab analysis. Other concerns include human errors, inconsistent DNA analysis protocols among forensic laboratories, and potential contamination during sample collection. Furthermore, the research delves into laboratory errors, subjective interpretations, and existing biases. There is an increasing worry regarding the excessive reliance on DNA evidence without sufficient investigative corroboration, along with the potential misinterpretation of statistical probabilities by jurors. The article also examines ethical issues surrounding the expansion of DNA databases, privacy violations, and familial DNA searches. Citing pivotal academic studies and landmark legal cases like those of O.J. Simpson and Amanda Knox, this analysis highlights the pressing need for rigorous standards to govern the ethical use of DNA evidence in the criminal justice system.

Analysis and Comparison of Social Media Applications Using Forensic Software on Mobile Devices

With the integration of mobile systems into daily life, social media applications used especially on Android and iOS platforms contain a significant amount of sensitive information. Social media applications on mobile systems have huge personal and sensitive content. Therefore, it is important to design effective techniques for forensic analysis of social media applications and to detect personal data. In this research, three different paid mobile forensic software and 4 different brands and models of smartphones with different operating systems were used and analyzed. The study shows that private messages, e-mails, time information, shared data, location and time information, and other personal data can be obtained by a forensic expert who performs an examination, and it is seen that one software can access the deleted data, but another software cannot access it. In proportion to the technology used in today’s world, mobile forensics incidents are increasing day by day, and a competitive environment is created among the software used to illuminate these incidents. With this competition, software companies dealing with forensic informatics are trying to obtain different data to illuminate forensic events that may occur due to the active use of social media accounts with the developing technology, and software that does not meet the needs in the face of this situation remains in the background. The criminal elements in the investigation areas of mobile forensics differ daily, and the scope of crimes in the virtual environment is expanding with the developing technology. Therefore, mobile forensic analysis applications should be successful in social media applications other than standard data.

Inadequate Postmortem Reports: Investigating the Underlying Factors

Postmortem reports play a vital role in forensic pathology, providing essential information about the causes of death needed for legal investigations. However, several factors undermine the quality of these reports, threatening their reliability and compromising the integrity of the judicial system. This study explores the key issues contributing to inadequate postmortem reports, such as the absence of standardized protocols, lack of adequate training for forensic staff, communication breakdowns, external pressures on forensic teams, overwhelmed laboratories with insufficient infrastructure, personnel, and equipment, and challenges in implementing new technologies. By examining these elements, the research seeks to identify opportunities for improvement to enhance the quality and accuracy of autopsies. An integrated approach is crucial for establishing standardized practices, upgrading facilities and equipment, increasing staffing and laboratory numbers, improving training for forensic professionals, and promoting better communication among all stakeholders in forensic investigations. The findings emphasize the need to address these systemic issues to produce more reliable postmortem reports, which are essential for delivering accurate forensic insights and ensuring just legal outcomes.

Association of Myianoetus sp. (Acari: Histiostomatidae) with necrophagous fly Compsomyiops fulvicrura (Diptera: Calliphoridae), in the Prepuna ecoregion (Jujuy: Argentina)

The genus Myianoetus Oudemans (Acari: Histiostomatidae) is commonly associated with carrion, utilizing flies (Diptera) from various families as a means of dispersal through phoresy. The objective of this paper is to present a new association between Myianoetus sp. mites and Calliphoridae flies and discuss its relevance in forensic sciences. Samples were collected in 3 locations in the Prepuna ecoregion of Jujuy, Argentina. Specimens were captured using necrotraps baited with cow lung. Flies carrying phoretic mites were separated and identified to a specific level, while mites were counted and identified at the lowest possible taxonomic level. Compsomyiops fulvicrura (Robineau-Desvoidy) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) was the only species that presented attached mites, with an average intensity of 12.26 mites per fly. The mites carried by C. fulvicrura were identified as deutonymphs of Myianoetus sp., with a prevalence of 2.56% of infested flies. Significant differences in the abundance of flies with mites were observed between locations and seasons. This article represents the first contribution to knowledge on the specific association between Myianoetus sp. and C. fulvicrura. These findings in forensic ecology are relevant for their potential contribution and application in the development of more precise methods in specific forensic cases.

The effect of handedness and biological sex on fingermark ridge height and volume as examined by 3D imaging.

For decades, detectives and forensic scientists have relied on friction ridge skin comparisons to identify individuals in criminal investigations. This method involves examining (latent) fingermarks, typically captured as two-dimensional (2D) images, and comparing them with known inked impressions or scans. The comparisons focus on general patterns, the location and orientation of minutiae, and additional characteristics like scars or pores. However, this common process overlooks other potentially valuable factors, such as handedness, biological sex, and the time since deposition, which could provide crucial investigative leads, especially in cases with partial or unclear ridge patterns. This study explored the potential of three-dimensional (3D) optical profilometry (OP) to observe changes in fingermarks ridge height and volume over 7 days while considering hand dominance and biological sex. The results indicated that all the assessed 3D metrics were generally consistent in detecting the effects of sex and handedness, mostly noticeable on aged fingermarks. Specifically, females and impressions from their non-dominant hand exhibited higher values. Additionally, the influence of time was evident, with fresh fingermarks showing significantly larger ridges in terms of height and volume. These findings suggest that 3D OP can enhance the probative value of fingermarks by inferring additional characteristics such as sex, handedness, and the age of the impression. These activity-level propositions could provide useful information in cases where only partial or poor-quality fingermarks are recovered, providing new data dimensions that could lead to more comprehensive forensic examinations.