Recovery Of Fingerprints Research Articles

Recovery of Incomplete Fingerprints Based on Ridge Texture and Orientation Field

The recovery of mutilated fingerprints plays an important role in improving the accuracy of fingerprint recognition and the speed of identity retrieval, so it is crucial to recover mutilated fingerprints efficiently and accurately. In this paper, we propose a method for the restoration of mutilated fingerprints based on the ridge texture and orientation field. First, the part to be restored is identified via the local quality of the fingerprint, and a mask image is generated. Second, a novel dual-stream fingerprint restoration network named IFSR is designed, which contains two branches, namely an orientation prediction branch guided by the fingerprint orientation field and a detail restoration branch guided by the high-quality fingerprint texture image, through which the damaged region of the mutilated fingerprint is restored. Finally, the method proposed in this paper is validated on a real dataset and an artificially damaged fingerprint dataset. The equal error rate (EER) achieved on the DB1, DB2, and DB4 datasets of FVC2002 is 0.10%, 0.12%, and 0.20%, respectively, while on the DB1, DB2, and DB4 datasets of FVC2004, the EER reaches 1.13%, 2.00%, and 0.27%, respectively. On the artificially corrupted fingerprint dataset, the restoration method achieves a peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) of 16.6735.

Enhancement imaging of developed latent blood fingerprints using TOF-SIMS

As one of the most common types of evidence in violent cases, blood fingerprints play an important role in identifying suspects. Typically, Latent blood fingerprints from a crime scene require the application of chemical development reagents followed by photographing to visualize the ridge detail. However, conventional development techniques are not effective in the visualization of poor latent blood fingerprints due to the formation conditions. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) is a surface analysis technique that combines high mass resolution and high spatial resolution to recover through mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) to reveal fingerprints that are invisible to the naked eye, especially conventional visualization methods. In this study, an enhancement method for latent blood fingerprints was established by analyzing blood fingerprints that showed poor visibility using conventional methods (acid yellow, amido black 10B, tetramethylbenzidine) on plastic sheets, aluminum foil, various papers, and other objects. Additionally, blood samples were diluted with distilled water at concentration gradients of 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, and 1:100 to test the method's sensitivity. Latent fingerprints of blood that aged 14, 30, and 54 days were also examined. Results showed that this method not only enhances the development of fingerprints under challenging conditions but also allows for the recovery of incomplete fingerprints and the separation of overlapping fingerprints. Compared to conventional methods, this approach significantly improves the development effect of latent blood fingerprints while maintaining universality, reliability and practicality.

The impact of lipid degradation on fingerprint quality on fired firearm cartridges.

The recovery of identifiable fingerprints from fired cartridge cases is challenging. Therefore, the characterization of chemical modifications and their effects on fingerprint integrity post-firing is essential. In this study, the primary fingerprint lipids, including myristic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, squalene, and cholesterol in fired and unfired cartridges, were extracted with acetonitrile, followed by derivatization using N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide with 1% trimethylchlorosilane (BSTFA/1%TMCS). Squalane was used as the internal standard, and all quantifications were performed using gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry using a triple-quadrupole mass filter. All lipids identified in the unfired cartridges were also detected in the fired cartridges, and statistical analysis using Student's t-test and F tests was performed with a 95% confidence level. The concentration of lipids in the unfired cartridges was found to be similar to that detected in the fired cartridges, except for squalene, the recovery of which was 28% lower in the fired cartridges.

Recovery of latent fingerprints on different substrates submerged under fresh water: A review

Fingerprint proof is the maximum dependable and popular evidence inside the legal court in the judicial system. Though fingerprints are identical to all kind of conditions of atmosphere like rain, fire etc., and a huge range with different types of physical and chemical methodologies are needed for the fingerprints development. Criminal offenders always have an essential intention is they plan not to leave any traces at the crime scene. Criminals may have thought that evidences which are recovered under water will have not a single value in the field of forensics, so they consequently try to spoil the strains by throwing items in water sources like ponds or lakes. These constitute a task for the forensic experts to investigate the fingerprints. Under water evidences which are recovered from the scenes where crime occurred, have usually been a venture for the forensic scientists, as water puts different environmental effect at the prints. There are various technical processes which available for the purpose of fingerprint development from various types of substrates like glass, metal, aluminum, plastic, wood etc. on different time intervals like two days, ten days etc. There are strategies for improvement of fingerprints discovered under fresh water. The present examine offers different techniques like SPR, PTC, Black Powder, Cyanoacrylate, zinc carbonate etc. for the development of fingerprints determined under fresh water.

A review on recovery of latent fingerprints on different substrates immersed under muddy water

Fingerprints are most affirmative evidence for personal identification found at crime scene. However, its quite tedious and crucial to develop and identify the latent fingerprints from destructive crime scene conditions. Although some may believe that evidence recovered underwater will have no forensic value, but forensic research shows that identifiable fingerprints may still be developed. In this paper, we have discussed that it is possible to develop latent fingerprints from non-porous and porous materials disposed of in muddy water by using different powders available in the home. All the samples were disposed of in containers containing muddy water and then different techniques were used for the recovery of latent fingerprints. In this paper, economical, simple, and easily available powders have been chosen to recover the latent prints on five frequently encountered different substrates i.e., plastic, glass, metal plates, aluminium foil, cardboard, glossy-painted wooden substrates. It is examined that it shows very good and clear results on most of the surfaces with clear ridge characteristics.

The Use of Liquid Latex to Recover Latent Fingerprints that are Covered in Debris from Exterior Glass Surfaces of Vehicles.

The purpose of this research is to determine if latent fingerprints deposited on the exterior glass surfaces of vehicles, then covered in debris, can be recovered. Past research used liquid latex to lift soot to recover trace evidence. Recently, liquid latex has been used to recover latent fingerprints along the bottom of vehicles. In this study, a total of 216 latent fingerprints were deposited on the exterior windows of three vehicles. Three control and three experimental latent fingerprints were placed on each side window. The vehicles collected debris for either 2, 3, or 4weeks. After debris collection, liquid latex was applied to the experimental sections. The underlying fingerprints were developed with white granular powder. Control fingerprints were developed directly with white granular powder. A chi-square test revealed a significant difference in fingerprint recovery between the control and liquid latex method (X2 =9.026, d.f.=1, p=0.003). An odds ratio determined that the control method increases the probability of latent fingerprint recovery by 2.68. Fisher's exact test indicated that there is no statistically significant difference between the detail of the recovered control and experimental fingerprints (p=0.065). This study demonstrates that recovery of fingerprints is possible using the liquid latex method; however, the control method recovers more fingerprints on the glass exterior of vehicles. If latent fingerprints are thought to be present on the exterior glass surfaces of vehicles, the control method should be used to improve vehicle processing by investigators.

Recovery of fingerprints from deceased: a DVI case study

ABSTRACTThe recovery of post-mortem fingerprints during the Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) process is an integral part of the identification of human remains following a mass casualty event. As part of the vetting process, decisions must be made as to what forms of identification evidence may be recovered during post-mortem examination of the deceased and, therefore, which specialists should be engaged. We present a case study in which the initial triage – undertaken as is routinely performed in small to medium DVI incidents by members without specialist fingerprint experience – suggested that fingerprint recovery would be extremely difficult. The case was taken up, with approval of the coroner, by fingerprint specialists who subsequently recovered identifiable ridge detail from all deceased. This instance highlights the importance of involving persons with specialized knowledge in triage decisions.

Novel Safranin-Tinted Candida rugosa Lipase Nanoconjugates Reagent for Visualizing Latent Fingerprints on Stainless Steel Knives Immersed in a Natural Outdoor Pond.

Waterways are popular locations for the disposition of criminal evidence because the recovery of latent fingerprints from such evidence is difficult. Currently, small particle reagent is a method often used to visualize latent fingerprints containing carcinogenic and hazardous compounds. This study proposes an eco-friendly, safranin-tinted Candida rugosa lipase (triacylglycerol ester hydrolysis EC 3.1.1.3) with functionalized carbon nanotubes (CRL-MWCNTS/GA/SAF) as an alternative reagent to the small particle reagent. The CRL-MWCNTS/GA/SAF reagent was compared with the small particle reagent to visualize groomed, full fingerprints deposited on stainless steel knives which were immersed in a natural outdoor pond for 30 days. The quality of visualized fingerprints using the new reagent was similar (modified-Centre for Applied Science and Technology grade: 4; p > 0.05) to small particle reagent, even after 15 days of immersion. Despite the slight decrease in quality of visualized fingerprints using the CRL-MWCNTS/GA/SAF on the last three immersion periods, the fingerprints remained forensically identifiable (modified-Centre for Applied Science and Technology grade: 3). The possible chemical interactions that enabled successful visualization is also discussed. Thus, this novel reagent may provide a relatively greener alternative for the visualization of latent fingerprints on immersed non-porous objects.

An investigation into effective methodologies for latent fingerprint enhancement on items recovered from fire

A common assumption is that fire destroys fingerprint evidence. Recent studies have sought to challenge this assumption. This study presents a comparative evaluation of soot removal and fingerprint enhancement techniques, following fire(s) to ascertain optimal process efficacy for recovering fingerprints. Two car burns and a cremation oven were used to determine the temperature range. Temperatures of 300, 450 and 600°C were used in simulated, controlled fires wherein cars had prints deposited on rear view mirrors. Burning occurred in a shipping container designed to approximate the variables relating to car arson. Soot removal was undertaken by tape lifting, sodium hydroxide solution, or liquid latex casting. The fingerprint enhancement techniques comprised black magnetic, aluminium and black suspension powders, or cyanoacrylate fuming with BY40 dye. A fingerprint expert classified prints as un/identifiable according to standards to be submitted as evidence in court. Multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed on the data using a p value of <0.05 to determine statistical significance. Temperature was the biggest factor affecting fingerprint recovery. There were no statistically significant differences found between any of the soot removal methods used. Higher counts of identifiable prints were recovered with black magnetic powder and cyanoacrylate/BY40 compared to the other methods used but these findings were not statistically significant. It is recommended that recovery of fire-exposed fingerprints (which are not protected) is undertaken where suspected maximum temperatures are <450°C. Evaluation of optimal soot removal and fingerprint enhancement techniques should be conducted on a case by case basis.

Effects of CBRN Decontaminants in Common use by First Responders on the Recovery of Latent Fingerprints—Assessment of the Loss of Ridge Detail on Glass

Following a CBRN incident, first responders use decontamination procedures to reduce the risk of exposure. The effect of decontamination on forensic trace material has, however, not been fully examined. This study sought to evaluate the effect of five different physical or chemical decontamination materials on the recovery of latent fingerprints. Fingerprints were deposited on glass slides, decontaminated, and assessed on the presence of ridge detail. The results demonstrate that decontamination affects the quality of latent fingerprints substantially. On at least 61% of the fingerprints, a reduced amount of ridge detail was observed upon decontamination. Furthermore, development with cyanoacrylate appeared not to succeed anymore. Instead, the ability of vacuum metal deposition to successfully develop decontaminated fingerprints is demonstrated. The results from this study may contribute to an increased forensic awareness regarding decontamination and emphasize the necessity for further research into new item decontamination procedures or new forensic initiatives prior to decontamination.

A preliminary investigation into the acquisition of fingerprints on food

The potential for enhancement and recovery of latent fingerprints on a variety of foodstuffs has been investigated. In general, black magnetic powder and black powder suspensions appear to be the most successful enhancement techniques with a high number of ridge detail-developed prints over a selected time scale. Banana, apple and tomato surfaces showed enhancement of latent prints but potato and egg surfaces proved to be less successful.

Use of nitrogen cryogun for separating duct tape and recovery of latent fingerprints with a powder suspension method

Duct tape is sometimes recovered as physical evidence in crimes. The purpose of this study was to determine the quality of latent prints on the adhesive and non-adhesive surfaces of duct tape samples that were separated using three methods. Three hundred donor fingerprint impressions were deposited on duct tape. Sections of duct tape were affixed to sections of cardboard and a fingerprint placed on the non-adhesive surface of the tape. A second layer of duct tape was prepared and a fingerprint placed on the adhesive side of the tape and then the tape was affixed to the piece of tape on the cardboard. After a 24-h period, the samples were separated using gradual force, liquid nitrogen applied with a cryogun and an adhesive neutralizer to separate the layers of tape. The recovered fingerprints were processed with a fingerprint powder suspension method. The recovered fingerprint images were evaluated and rated as +1, +2, or +3. The liquid nitrogen spray separation method yielded the highest number of +3 prints.

The Relationship Between Deprivation and Forensic Material Recovered from Stolen Vehicles: Is it Affected by Vehicle Condition and Tidiness?

Previous research has shown that as crime scene location deprivation increases (lower socioeconomic status), the recovery of forensic material, principally DNA and fingerprints, also increases. However, this increase does not result in more crimes being solved by forensic means. In this study, we analyze stolen vehicle data and find a statistically significant positive association between deprivation and the amount of forensic material that matched either the victim or an associate of the victim on a criminal database. The nature of this association was investigated further by inspecting recovered stolen vehicles to establish whether the condition of a stolen vehicle and the tidiness of its interior influenced the recovery of forensic material that was attributed to the victim or an associate. Contradictory results suggest that other factors may contribute to understanding the association between the recovery of victim- or associate-attributable forensic material and crime scene location deprivation.

Recovery of Latent Fingerprints and DNA on Human Skin*

The project "Latent Fingerprints and DNA on Human Skin" was the first systematic research in Europe dealing with detection of fingerprints and DNA left by offenders on the skin of corpses. One thousand samples gave results that allow general statements on the materials and methods used. The tests were carried out according to a uniform trial structure. Fingerprints were deposited by natural donors on corpses. The latent fingerprints were treated with magnetic powder or black fingerprint powder. Afterward, they were lifted with silicone casting material (Isomark(®)) or gelatine foil. All lifts were swabbed to recover DNA. It was possible to visualize comparable and identifiable fingerprints on the skin of corpses (16%). In the same categories, magnetic powder (18.4%) yielded better results than black fingerprint powder (13.6%). The number of comparable and identifiable fingerprints decreased on the lifts (12.7%). Isomark(®) (14.9%) was the better lifting material in comparison with gelatine foil (10.1%). In one-third of the samples, DNA could be extracted from the powdered and lifted latents. Black fingerprint powder delivered the better result with a rate of 2.2% for full DNA profiles and profiles useful for exclusion in comparison with 1.8% for the magnetic powder traces. Isomark(®) (3.1%) yielded better results than gelatine foil (0.6%).

Recovery of latent fingerprints and DNA on dead bodies

Recovery of latent fingerprints and DNA on dead bodies

Enhancing the Quality of Aged Latent Fingerprints Developed by Superglue Fuming: Loss and Replenishment of Initiator

The recovery and identification of latent fingerprints from a crime scene are crucial to many investigations. The cyanoacrylate (superglue) fuming method (CFM), which develops fingerprints by growing a polymer coating over the print residue, is a powerful method but encounters severe limitations when prints are aged or exposed to harsh environmental conditions. We examine the aging process and how the changes that occur to a fingerprint residue over time influence the growth of polymer during development. We identify loss of initiator by erosion and degradation that, when coupled with a loss of water from the print residue, result in a decreased ability to polymerize ethylcyanoacrylate. Then, we present a methodology by which the ability of aged latent fingerprints to polymerize ethylcyanoacrylate is recovered. Two print enhancement agents, acetic acid and ammonia, are demonstrated to improve the growth of polymer from the print ridges by over an order of magnitude, while retaining the integrity of the print structure. Comparison between the two enhancement agents indicate that the enhancement occurs due to ridge coating by the ammonia or acetic acid and pH control of the latent print.

Recovery of DNA and fingerprints from touched documents

This study investigated the various factors affecting DNA profiling from DNA recovered from fingerprints deposited on paper before and after fingerprint enhancement treatments. The DNeasy ® plant mini kit (QIAGEN ®) was found to improve DNA recovery from paper by over 150% compared with the QIAamp ® mini kit. A significant decrease in the amount of DNA recovered was observed following treatment with DFO and/or Ninhydrin. This decrease in yield did not have a comparably significant effect on the quality of the SGM Plus™ profiles. Furthermore, this study found that whilst certain paper types, such as newspaper, magazine and filter paper allowed for the good recovery of DNA, common office paper and white card, strongly interfered with the recovery of DNA resulting in poor quality profiles.

The Effects of Deprivation on the Time Spent Examining Crime Scenes and the Recovery of DNA and Fingerprints

DNA and fingerprint identifications are now accepted as an integral part of the investigation of a wide range of criminal offences from burglary and auto crime to serious and major crime. Despite this, there is still much variation between U.K. police forces in the recovery of fingerprint and DNA material from crime scenes. Analysis of burglary and auto crime data for Northamptonshire, U.K., during a 3-year period has enabled an examination of the relationship between the deprivation of the neighborhood in which the crime was committed and the level of service provided by Crime Scene Examiners. The results indicate that the time spent examining a crime scene for forensic evidence is not affected by the deprivation of the neighborhood. Further, there is no statistical significance between deprivation and the recovery of fingerprints from the crime scene. The relationship between deprivation and DNA recovery is, however, statistically significant with DNA being recovered more frequently from less deprived neighborhoods.

Recovery of Fingerprints from Fire Scenes and Associated Evidence

A lack of information concerning the potential recovery of fingerprints from fire scenes and related evidence prompted several research projects. Latent prints from good secretors and visible prints (in blood) were placed on a variety of different surfaces and subsequently subjected to "real life" fires in fully furnished compartments used for fire investigation training purposes. The items were placed in various locations and at different heights within the compartments. After some initial success, further tests were undertaken using both latent and dirt/grease marks on different objects within the same types of fire compartments. Subsequent sets of tests involved the recovery of latent and visual fingerprints (in blood, dirt and grease) from different types of weapons, lighters, plastic bags, match boxes, tapers, plastic bottles and petrol bombs that had been subjected to the same fire conditions as previously. Throughout the entire series of projects one of the prime considerations was how the resultant findings could be put into practice by fire scene examiners in an attempt to assist the police in their investigations. This research demonstrates that almost one in five items recovered from fire scenes yielded fingerprint ridge detail following normal development treatments.

Clonal lineages of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum previously known from other crops predominate in 1999-2000 samples from Ontario and Quebec soybean

Twenty-one mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs) and 41 DNA fingerprints were identified from 213 isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum from 10 fields and three performance trials of soybean, and one test plot and one field of edible bean sampled in eastern Ontario and Quebec (1999) and western Ontario (2000). Population structure was predominantly clonal as evidenced by repeated recovery of MCGs and fingerprints in the sample and the association of fingerprint with MCG. Evolution of new fingerprint phenotypes within some clones was indicated by differences of one to three hybridizing fragments from the most frequently sampled fingerprint associated with an MCG. A single MCG represented 46% of the isolates; this was clonal lineage 1, a frequently sampled clone from Ontario canola in 1989, also sampled previously from cabbage in New York State. Five of the 21 MCGs represented 84% of the total sample. Sixty percent of the isolates had fingerprints identical to or differing by one or two hybridizing fragments to fingerprints archived from previous samples from canola, cabbage, edible bean, and other crops. Results indicate that soybean is infected mainly by pathogen genotypes residual from other crop or weed hosts and that a few pathogen genotypes are responsible for a large proportion of infections.