Science & Justice RSS feed: Current Issue. Science & Justice provides a forum to promote communication and publication of original articles, reviews and correspondence on subjects that spark debates within the Forensic Science Community and the criminal justice sector. The journal provides a medium whereby all aspects of applying science to legal proceedings can be debated and progressed. Science & Justice is published four times a year, and will be of interest primarily to practising forensic scientists and their colleagues in related fields. It is chiefly concerned with the publication of formal scientific papers, in keeping with its international learned status, but will not accept any article describing experimentation on animals which does not meet strict ethical standards. Promote communication and informed debate within the Forensic Science Community and the criminal justice sector. To promote the publication of learned and original research findings from all areas of the forensic sciences and by so doing to advance the profession. To promote the publication of case based material by way of case reviews. To promote the publication of book reviews and conference proceedings which are of interest to the forensic science community. Scope: To provide a medium whereby all aspects of applying science to legal proceedings can be debated and progressed. To appeal to all those with an interest in the forensic sciences. Science & Justice has an Impact Factor of 0.838 on the 2010 Journal Citation Reports®, published by Thomson Reuters. http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2012 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Science & Justice1355-0306522June 2012 © 2012 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS135503061200041X/abstract?rss=yesEditorial Board10.1016/S1355-0306(12)00041-XScience & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-06-01Science & Justice2012-06-01522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0IFCIFChttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS135503061200038X/abstract?rss=yesIt may be an understatement to say that the publication of research is a challenging and sometimes wearisome endeavour. Even for career researchers with many years of experience, the fear always exists that the work may not meet the standards set to pass peer-review. In some respects it constitutes a leap of faith, but confidence grows with each success.Recognising our emerging researchersLeon Barron10.1016/j.scijus.2012.04.002Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-23Science & Justice2012-04-23522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Editorial6767http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611001031/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Situating events and traces in time is an essential problem in investigations. To date, among the typical questions issued in forensic science, time has generally been unexplored. The reason for this can be traced to the complexity of the overall problem, addressed by several scientists in very limited projects usually stimulated by a specific case. Considering that such issues are recurrent and transcending the treatment of each trace separately, the formalisation of a framework to address dating issues in criminal investigation is undeniably needed. Through an iterative process consisting of extracting recurrent aspects discovered from the study of problems encountered by practitioners and reported in the literature, common mechanisms were extracted and provide understanding of underlying factors encountered in forensic practise. Three complementary approaches are thus highlighted and described to formalise a preliminary framework that can be applied for the dating of traces, objects, persons and indirectly events.Situating forensic traces in timeCéline Weyermann, Olivier Ribaux10.1016/j.scijus.2011.09.003Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-10-05Science & Justice2011-10-05522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers6875http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000955/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Research was carried out to determine whether the likelihood of obtaining a positive Acid Phosphatase (AP) test result is affected by the make and type of paper used. Also, we aimed to investigate the frequency of AP positive reactions occurring after 2min using a series of known semen dilutions and to determine whether spermatozoa transfer onto the paper during the act of AP screening.In this research, most brands of paper tested were able to detect a 1 in 40 semen dilution within 2min. Leaving AP test papers for longer will allow the detection of greater dilutions of semen and as the amount of ejaculation is not reliably known in most casework situations and levels of AP activity can vary in different men, this will increase the seminal detection rate in sexual offence allegations.The fallacy of the two-minute acid phosphatase cut offJ. Lewis, S. Jones, F. Baxter, A. Siemieniuk, R. Talbot10.1016/j.scijus.2011.08.003Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-12-12Science & Justice2011-12-12522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers7680http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000979/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: A number of dyed acrylic and acetate fibre samples were examined with plane polarized light on their dichroic behavior by optical light microscopy (OLM) and microspectrophotometry with plane polarized light (MSP-PPL). It was found that most of these low birefringent fibres possess weak dichroic effects that are very hard to observe with microscopy. However, using MSP-PPL, the linear dichroism could be measured.A comparison between the dichroic effects found for the same disperse dyes on triacetate (TrAc), diacetate (Ac), polyester (PES) and polyamide (PA) shows that the linear dichroism follows the order: PA>PES >>TrAc, Ac.Dichroism measurements in forensic fibre examination. Part 4—dyed acrylic and acetate fibresK. De Wael10.1016/j.scijus.2011.08.005Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-09-05Science & Justice2011-09-05522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers8189http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000864/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Forensic scientists may sometimes be asked to identify the presence of urine in cases such as harassment, rape or murder. One popular presumptive test method uses para-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde (DMAC), favoured because it is simple, rapid and safe. This paper confirms that DMAC reacts with urea rather than creatinine, ammonia or uric acid. Sensitivity studies found that the 0.1% w/v DMAC solution currently used for urine identification detects levels of urea found in other body fluids, potentially resulting in false positives. A 0.05% w/v solution was found to be more appropriate in terms of sensitivity to urea however the test is still not specific for urine, giving positive reactions with a number of body fluids (saliva, semen, sweat and vaginal material) and other substances (foot lotion, hair removal cream and broccoli).Forensic identification of urine using the DMAC test: A method validation studySandy Y. Ong, Adrian Wain, Linda Groombridge, Eileen Grimes10.1016/j.scijus.2011.07.007Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-08-31Science & Justice2011-08-31522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers9095http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000943/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: A survey was undertaken to determine the background level of paint flakes on the clothing of persons suspected of involvement in crime. The debris from 100 garments submitted for casework examination was studied and paint flakes recovered where present. Seventy two percent of garments bore one or more flakes. A total of 703 flakes were recovered; size, topcoat colour, and number and colour of any under-layers were recorded for each. The distribution of paint flakes on clothing surfaces and in pockets was also noted. Results were compared with the previously published survey of Pearson, May and Dabbs (1971). This survey provides scientists with an updated data set for reference when considering the strength of paint evidence.A survey of paint flakes on the clothing of persons suspected of involvement in crimeRachel Moore, Delia Kingsbury, Joanna Bunford, Valerie Tucker10.1016/j.scijus.2011.08.002Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-08-29Science & Justice2011-08-29522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers96101http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000852/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: The antioxidant properties of black and green teas are well known. It is also possible to determine their antioxidant capacity by using a chemiluminscent method. This method is based on the measurement of the delay in the emission of light from the luminol reaction in the presence of the antioxidant. Bloodstains which are invisible to the naked eye can also be detected by luminol. Three common methods (detection using the Grodsky or Weber formulations and by Bluestar® Forensic latent bloodstain reagent) are based on the luminol chemiluminescence reaction. The bloodstains can be masked by drinks and/or foods containing antioxidants. The aim of this work was to compare the ability of black and green teas containing antioxidants to cause false negative results during chemiluminescent bloodstain detection.Black and green tea — Luminol false-negative bloodstains detectionMartina Bancirova10.1016/j.scijus.2011.07.006Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-08-25Science & Justice2011-08-25522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers102105http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611000931/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Detecting and locating semen stains is addressed by identifying the associated acid phosphatase activity of semen. The recovery of semen stains is critical as it can, via DNA testing, address the possible source(s) of the semen and may aid in the interpretation of a case. The purpose of these experiments, carried out on behalf of the Body Fluids Forum, was to consider whether wetting the test paper alone or wetting the semen stained fabric and the test paper affected the detection and location of the semen stains on various fabric types, or the subsequent recovery of spermatozoa from these fabrics. It became evident that the preferred approach varied depending on the fabric type being tested but that more often than not, wetting both the fabric and the test paper had a detrimental effect on the recovery of spermatozoa.Acid phosphatase screening — Wetting test paper or wetting fabric and test paper?G. Davidson, T.B. Jalowiecki10.1016/j.scijus.2011.08.001Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-09-14Science & Justice2011-09-14522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers106111http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611001079/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: The aim of this study was to verify that the combination of Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy and scanning electron microscope / energy dispersive X-ray mapping could be applied to line intersection problems. The spectral data of red seal ink, laser toner and their intersections, such as peak location and peak intensity, were described. Relative peak height ratios of different chemical components in intersecting lines were used to distinguish the sequences. Energy dispersive X-ray mapping characteristics of intersecting areas were also detailed. The results show that both the laser toner and the seal ink appear on the surface of intersections, regardless of the sequence. The distribution of the two inks on the surface is influenced not only by the sequence of heterogeneous lines but also by diffusion. Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy and scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X-ray mapping are able to explore the chemical components and the corresponding elemental distribution in the intersections. The combination of these two techniques has provided a reliable method for sequencing intersecting lines of red seal ink and laser toner, and more importantly, this method may be a basis for sequencing superimposed lines from other writing instruments.Determination of the sequence of intersecting lines from laser toner and seal ink by Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy and scanning electron microscope / energy dispersive X-ray mappingYuanfeng Wang, Bing Li10.1016/j.scijus.2011.10.001Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-10-31Science & Justice2011-10-31522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers112118http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611001109/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: The Association of Chief Police Officers commissioned Skills for Justice to develop a competence assessment framework to support police forces' scientific support units evidence the competence of their staff against nationally agreed standards of competence. This will also help forces on their journey towards ISO 17025 and ISO 17020 accreditation. A six point framework has been developed and published and is now being implemented across many forces.A competence assessment framework for scientific support within policing in England and WalesCharles Welsh10.1016/j.scijus.2011.10.004Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-12-26Science & Justice2011-12-26522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Scientific and technical papers119125http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030611001092/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: This letter explains why a recent study purporting to show that exposure to domain-irrelevant information caused DNA analysts to misinterpret a complex mixture does not warrant this conclusion on the basis of the data from the study.The design of “the first experimental study exploring DNA interpretation”David H. Kaye10.1016/j.scijus.2011.10.003Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2011-11-02Science & Justice2011-11-02522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Letters to the Editor and Responses126127http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000329/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Understanding and coping with cognitive bias in forensic science requires multiple studies, utilizing both laboratory-based experiments and data from casework. Neither type of studies has ever been conducted to examine bias in mixture DNA interpretations. A study that includes both types of data has recently been published in Science and Justice. The data and statistical analysis clearly — at the very least — suggest that bias may potentially influence DNA mixture interpretation. This is due, in part, to the subjective elements in interpretation of mixture DNA. The issue of bias and other cognitive influences is of a sensitive nature and presents complex experimental challenges. Our study takes a step in examining these issues and calls for more research.Cognitive forensics and experimental research about bias in forensic caseworkItiel E. Dror10.1016/j.scijus.2012.03.006Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-16Science & Justice2012-04-16522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Letters to the Editor and Responses128130http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000378/abstract?rss=yesIn their article, Dror and Hapikian present an example of how prior knowledge of circumstances in a case can influence DNA result interpretation. In my opinion, this phenomenon can largely be attributed to human nature. Forensic scientists have biases and emotions like anyone else. For instance, outside influences such as information from investigators or media news reports may affect a forensic scientist's partiality in result interpretation, witness statement writing and/or courtroom testimony. Similarly, a female forensic scientist may subconsciously be motivated by fear in her interpretation of results in regard to a particular suspect in a rape case.RE. ‘Subjectivity and bias in forensic DNA mixture interpretation’ (Dror and Hapikian Volume 51 Issue 4)P. Brauner10.1016/j.scijus.2012.04.001Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-23Science & Justice2012-04-23522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Letters to the Editor and Responses131131http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000317/abstract?rss=yesThe objections to cognitive bias in forensic science often center around: Examiners are not affected by (or with mere willpower they can counter the effects of) contextual information, expectations, motivations, and other cognitive influences.Expectations, contextual information, and other cognitive influences in forensic laboratoriesItiel E. Dror10.1016/j.scijus.2012.03.005Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-09Science & Justice2012-04-09522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Letters to the Editor and Responses132132http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000299/abstract?rss=yesThis is the second edition of a textbook first published in 1998. From my perspective the interactions of radiology with the field of forensic medicine have increased more than any other speciality so an updated text on forensic radiology is most welcome.Alexander J.O. Kolar10.1016/j.scijus.2012.03.003Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-16Science & Justice2012-04-16522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Book reviews133133http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000275/abstract?rss=yesAnyone who had had any experience of the criminal justice system in the USA will be aware of how complex it is compared with the UK, if only because of the additional complications introduced by the fifty individual states and the multiplicity of law enforcement groups. In this second edition Professor Pollock points out that there are more than 20,000 state and local police agencies in the USA with overlapping jurisdictions and agencies in addition to increasing numbers of private police organisations.Ronald C. Denney10.1016/j.scijus.2012.03.001Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-04-05Science & Justice2012-04-05522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0Book reviews133134http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000469/abstract?rss=yesEvents Guide10.1016/S1355-0306(12)00046-9Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-06-01Science & Justice2012-06-01522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0IIhttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030612000470/abstract?rss=yesCouncil Information10.1016/S1355-0306(12)00047-0Science & Justice 52, 2 (2012)2012-06-01Science & Justice2012-06-01522S1355-0306(12)X0003-0IIII