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 © 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Science & Justice1355-0306503September 2010 © 2010 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000778/abstract?rss=yesEditorial Board10.1016/S1355-0306(10)00077-8Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-09-01Science & Justice2010-09-01503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1IFCIFChttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000729/abstract?rss=yesOn November 30th, 1660, twelve learned men gathered together in London to hear Christopher Wren deliver a lecture on astronomy. The resultant gathering established the Royal Society, the United Kingdom's National Academy of Science and the fellows of the Royal Society, throughout its 350year history, have had the most profound influence on the development of science, engineering and technology. In those very early days the importance of sound peer reviewed research was reflected in the motto of the gentlemen present (including Christopher Wren, Robert Hooke, Isaac Newton and Robert Boyle) which was to ‘accept nothing on authority’. They strove constantly to understand the world around them through careful observation, experimentation, debate and publication of their findings.Who speaks up for scienceN. Nic Daéid10.1016/j.scijus.2010.06.005Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-07-15Science & Justice2010-07-15503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Editorial111112http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609001798/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Although footprint evidence can be taken from the scene of a crime, the science underpinning such measurement in forensic science has not been fully explored.A literature search revealed various measuring approaches, all of which demonstrated either little or no measurement rigour in terms of reliability. The aim of this study was to apply a robust measurement approach for testing the reliability of two-dimensional footprint impressions.Three dynamic and three static footprints were taken from the right foot of thirty female and thirty one male volunteers using the ‘Inkless Shoeprint Kit’. The images were digitised. Lengths, widths and angles were measured using a selection of currently employed methods.An investigation of the reliability of the chosen measuring method suggested high intra-rater agreement: for example, the length measurement suggested an intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) 0.99, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) −0.28 to 0.01, standard error of measurement (SEM) 0.07, Limits of Agreement (LOA) −0.91 to 0.65.Inter-rater reliability between three operators was also high: SEM ranged from 0.05mm to 0.07mm, ICC 0.99.Our study has established a reliable two-dimensional measuring technique that could be used for footprint comparison in further research.Reliability of a two-dimensional footprint measurement approachSarah Reel, Simon Rouse, Wesley Vernon, Patrick Doherty10.1016/j.scijus.2009.11.007Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-02-01Science & Justice2010-02-01503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers113118http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609002561/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Bite mark analysis in forensic dentistry presupposes that the human dentition is unique and that its characteristics can be transferred precisely to several materials. The aim of the present study was to register the frequency of missing anterior teeth in the Brazilian adult population, discussing its potential importance in bite mark analysis. Data from the Brazilian Oral Health Survey were used; 13,431 male and female individuals aged 35 to 44 were examined according to the criteria of the World Health Organization. The analysis of Poisson regression was performed in order to calculate the rating ratios and the respective confidence interval at 95%. A total of 13,431 adults participated in the study. Among male individuals, 2063 (47.00%) were dentate and 2036 (46.40%) had at least one missing tooth. Only 254 (5.83%) were totally edentulous. A significant number of males and females presented 6 missing teeth in the same dental arch, revealing the poor state of oral health of adult Brazilians. Missing teeth were more frequent in the upper dental arch than in the lower arch. In the upper dental arch, the incisor group (central and lateral) was missing the most. In the lower dental arch, however, a certain lack of homogeneity was observed among the different dental groups as regards missing teeth. White individuals presented a smaller proportion of missing teeth compared to the other ethnic groups. Females were 1.61 (CI 1.50–1.73) times more likely than males to present missing teeth. The absence of upper teeth and the presence of lower teeth were observed in 16.10% of the individuals. Further research should also include an analysis of different age groups. This would increase the potential of applying this kind of information to bite mark analysis.National survey of the incidence of missing anterior teeth: Potential use in bite mark analysis in the Brazilian contextThaís Torralbo Lopez, Maria Gabriela Haye Biazevic, Edgard Michel-Crosato10.1016/j.scijus.2009.12.001Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2009-12-31Science & Justice2009-12-31503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers119122http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000535/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Forensic science is being required to justify and elucidate its scientific foundations. One way of doing this is through academic curricula. For many native forensic sciences, these curricula do not exist. A content analysis of nine major books in fingerprints was conducted to develop a structure for curricula in that field. The results of this study can be used to organize course content and serve as a model for other disciplines with published materials but no coherent or standard curricula.A content analysis of fingerprint literature for educational curriculaMax M. Houck, Jessica Boyle10.1016/j.scijus.2010.04.003Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-05-17Science & Justice2010-05-17503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers123126http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609001737/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: One hundred outer-garments were examined for microscopic fragments of polyurethane foam. Low power stereomicroscopy was used to classify fragments into 18 groups according to macroscopic colour. Amber, pale yellow and black were the most frequently encountered, whilst navy, pale blue, bright pink, beige, brown, pale green, peach and white were the least frequently encountered. High power comparison/fluorescence microscopy was used to discriminate 166 populations within 16 colour groupings. The majority (95.2%) of populations consisted of three fragments or less. This study demonstrates that the background population of foam fragments on an outer-garment consists of low numbers representing various colours. Therefore, finding a large population of microscopically indistinguishable fragments within a casework situation has the potential to be considered highly significant evidentially.A population study of polyurethane foam fragments recovered from the surface of 100 outer-garmentsG. Reed, C. Lofts, T. Coyle10.1016/j.scijus.2009.11.001Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2009-11-30Science & Justice2009-11-30503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers127137http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609001506/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: The prevalence of singed hairs on hands was examined in a representative sample comprised primarily of Hamburg LKA staff members to determine the evidential value of such traces in criminal cases. Hair samples were taken from the hands of 160 subjects and examined under a microscope. Evidence of singing was found in 53 of the samples. These traces were largely restricted to a limited number of areas. Distribution of singed hairs over a wide area was observed in just 3 subjects all of whom reported contact with an open flame. The presence of singed hair on the back of the hand can be of great evidential value, though the corresponding distribution pattern must be carefully interpreted.The evidential value of singed hairs in arson casesOliver Appel, Irina Kollo10.1016/j.scijus.2009.10.001Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2009-11-09Science & Justice2009-11-09503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers138140http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609001348/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Geophysics may assist scent dogs and divers in the search of water bodies for human and animal remains, contraband, weapons and explosives by surveying large areas rapidly and identifying targets or environmental hazards. The most commonly applied methods are described and evaluated for forensic searches. Seismic reflection or refraction and CHIRPS are useful for deep, open water bodies and identifying large targets, yet limited in streams and ponds. The use of ground penetrating radar (GPR) on water (WPR) is of limited use in deep waters (over 20m) but is advantageous in the search for non-metallic targets in small ditches and ponds. Large metal or metal-bearing targets can be successfully imaged in deep waters by using towfish magnetometers: in shallow waters such a towfish cannot be used, so a non-metalliferous boat can carry a terrestrial magnetometer. Each device has its uses, depending on the target and location: unknown target make-up (e.g. a homicide victim with or without a metal object) may be best located using a range of methods (the multi-proxy approach), depending on water depth. Geophysics may not definitively find the target, but can provide areas for elimination and detailed search by dogs and divers, saving time and effort.Geophysics and the search of freshwater bodies: A reviewRachael Parker, Alastair Ruffell, David Hughes, Jamie Pringle10.1016/j.scijus.2009.09.001Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2009-10-15Science & Justice2009-10-15503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers141149http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030609001099/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Titanium dioxide based powders are regularly used in the development of latent fingerprints on dark surfaces. For analysis of prints on adhesive tapes, the titanium dioxide can be suspended in a surfactant and used in the form of a powder suspension. Commercially available products, whilst having nominally similar composition, show varying levels of effectiveness of print development, with some powders adhering to the background as well as the print.X-ray fluorescence (XRF), analytical transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and laser particle sizing of the fingerprint powders show TiO2 particles with a surrounding coating, tens of nanometres thick, consisting of Al and Si rich material, with traces of sodium and sulphur. Such aluminosilicates are commonly used as anti-caking agents and to aid adhesion or functionality of some fingerprint powders; however, the morphology, thickness, coverage and composition of the aluminosilicates are the primary differences between the white powder formulations and could be related to variation in the efficacy of print development.Nano-scale composition of commercial white powders for development of latent fingerprints on adhesivesB.J. Jones, A.J. Reynolds, M. Richardson, V.G. Sears10.1016/j.scijus.2009.08.001Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2009-09-14Science & Justice2009-09-14503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Scientific and technical papers150155http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000717/abstract?rss=yesEveryone in the world of forensic science will be saddened by the unexpected news of Robin's death. He was a true pioneer in the field of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and its applications to forensic science. Robin joined the Metropolitan Police Forensic Laboratory (MPFSL) in 1971 when they had just bought their first SEM. It had been intended as a powerful microscopic tool for looking at biological materials. Robin had studied Botany at Kings College, London and was interested in materials like coccoliths, diatoms, pollen seeds, grains found during archaeological digs and plant structures and set about his task enthusiastically. However, he soon realised there were many more applications as a micro-analytical tool. He began exploring these and whenever he found something interesting he would share it with the scientific community. He was never self-interested or over-ambitious, always willing to share knowledge and experiences with others. He became known all over the world as the leading forensic electron microscopist. It wasn't long before all laboratories purchased the new technology and forensic scientists came flocking to the MPFSL lab to learn more, helping it to create its reputation as a world leader in forensic science. During his career he travelled the world passing on his knowledge and enthusiasm to many budding forensic scientists in such countries as Australia, Israel, Brazil, America, Japan and Cyprus where this year's ENFSI GSR meeting will be held. He spoke passionately about his subject and was always willing to spend time with anyone willing to listen and learn.Robin Keeley 1944–2010Geoff Warman10.1016/j.scijus.2010.06.004Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-07-21Science & Justice2010-07-21503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Obituary156157http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000638/abstract?rss=yesAlthough veterinary surgeons have long been involved in legal cases, it is only in the past five years that books specifically about forensic veterinary medicine have appeared. This one, by Dr. Ranald and Mrs. Helen Munro, interestingly the second husband and wife team to author such a book, follows hot on the heels of Sinclair, Merck and Lockwood , Cooper and Cooper , and Merck .John E Cooper, Margaret E Cooper10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.009Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-07-12Science & Justice2010-07-12503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews158159http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000675/abstract?rss=yesPutative human bones arrive in our laboratory in a variety of containers from a variety of locations. Whatever the circumstances, as forensic anthropologists we must first determine if the “bones” are in fact bone, rather than wood or plastic or some other substance. If the bone is indeed bone, the next question (to which this book is addressed) is: is it human or nonhuman?Julie Mather Saul, Frank P Saul10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.013Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-06-22Science & Justice2010-06-22503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews159160http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000614/abstract?rss=yesPsychology is undoubtedly a powerful tool and malleable science. Capable of providing invaluable insight into human thinking and behavior, which, in some cases, may be linked to everyday problems in society, the borders of psychology can easily transcend into other disciplines. Perhaps the greatest—and oldest—overlap comes with criminology, as police for years have been refining their practices with psychologically based techniques to enhance operations, improve investigations, and gain a better understanding on the etiology of crimes and motivations of offenders. Increasingly, other scholars are beginning to see the importance and value of incorporating psychology into their respective fields, such as sociologists studying crime in various groups and cultures, whereas for political scientists, psychology may help add a new dimension on growing problems, such as war, political murder, and terrorism. As can be seen, the advantages of integrating psychology into other disciplines can help facilitate the creation of new knowledge and provide practicable solutions to growing concerns in society, all of which is explored by Craig Webber, in his book, Psychology and Crime.Michael J. Puniskis10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.007Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-06-02Science & Justice2010-06-02503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews160161http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000602/abstract?rss=yesWildlife Investigations is one of seventeen titles which have been complied under the International Forensic Science and Investigation Series published by CRC Press. These books are intended, according to the series preface, to provide reference, learning and methods to the wider audience of forensic practitioners throughout the world. This particular addition is intended to help investigators and lab technicians decide on the best methods to apply in the diverse circumstances that can be encountered during the examination of plant or animal samples for forensic purposes.Eleanor A.M. Graham10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.006Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-07-05Science & Justice2010-07-05503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews161162http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000663/abstract?rss=yesWith this new addition to the continuing series of reference and textbooks on the sub-adult skeletal anatomy, Scheuer and Black (with the addition of Schaefer), have produced a comprehensive guide that is intended for use by professionals and advanced students, who need to estimate the age of juvenile skeletons. As the authors state in the preface to this volume, it is not meant to be a stand-alone textbook, but rather “something that facilitates analysis and computation for the expert who is already experienced in this area.” While this is true, this is also an excellent companion volume for use in practical sessions accompanying postgraduate-level lectures in developmental anatomy. With the two previous volumes published–the comprehensive reference tome Developmental Juvenile Osteology and the condensed student version, Juvenile Osteology–this spiral bound edition neatly completes the portfolio.Tal Simmons10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.012Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-06-28Science & Justice2010-06-28503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews162163http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000651/abstract?rss=yesIt is clear that the authors have achieved their goal and this would seem to the perfect husband and wife team to produce a book on veterinary forensic science. Their lifetime experience and dedication to work on forensics and wildlife is reflected in the pages of this text book. The uncomplicated language, with only an occasional use of technical jargon is supported further by the easy flow of text and the short sections. The synthesis of information in tables and figures add clarity to the interrelation of the concepts considered.J.P. Cassela10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.011Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-06-23Science & Justice2010-06-23503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews163163http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS135503061000064X/abstract?rss=yesThis book provides an academic forum for the discussion of not just serial murder, but also sexual offences and arson. Acknowledging the public fascination with such crimes and the way in which the media plays on the fear and horror which they generate, various aspects of the investigation and interpretation of repeat offences are presented in the form of a series of papers.Fiona Baxter10.1016/j.scijus.2010.05.010Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-07-09Science & Justice2010-07-09503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1Book reviews163163http://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000821/abstract?rss=yesEvents Guide10.1016/S1355-0306(10)00082-1Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-09-01Science & Justice2010-09-01503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1IIhttp://www.scienceandjusticejournal.com/article/PIIS1355030610000833/abstract?rss=yesCouncil Information10.1016/S1355-0306(10)00083-3Science & Justice 50, 3 (2010)2010-09-01Science & Justice2010-09-01503S1355-0306(10)X0004-1IIII