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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'DNA evidence'
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Delrow, Jeffrey James. "Evidence of alternative secondary structure states in DNA : simulations and experiments /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/8621.
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Wise, Jenny Alice Social Sciences & International Studies Faculty of Arts & Social Sciences UNSW. "The new scientific eyewitness: The role of DNA profiling in shaping criminal justice." Publisher:University of New South Wales. Social Sciences & International Studies, 2008. http://handle.unsw.edu.au/1959.4/41275.
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Since its first use in criminal investigations in 1987, DNA profiling has become the new gold standard for investigations and prosecutions. Academics, politicians and law enforcement officials have presented DNA evidence as a ??scientific hero?? that is capable of solving crimes and preventing miscarriages of justice. However, in spite of this reputation, few studies have explored the impact of this technology on criminal justice practitioners, or on the process of investigating and processing criminal offences. This dissertation provides a comparative study of the use of DNA profiling in two jurisdictions: New South Wales (NSW) in Australia and the Thames Valley in the United Kingdom (UK). Interviews canvassed the perspectives and experiences of police officers, scene of crime officers (SOCOs), forensic scientists, criminal lawyers, and judicial officers from these areas. These interviews were analysed in conjunction with appeal judgments and police statistics to reveal how DNA evidence has been used in the NSW and Thames Valley. The research presented in this dissertation indicates that DNA profiling is having a number of far-reaching effects on both criminal justice systems and is seen as a reliable forensic tool by criminal justice practitioners. Practitioners routinely use DNA evidence throughout the various stages of the criminal justice process and are actively changing their practices to utilise the technology more effectively. One of the main impacts of the introduction of DNA evidence into criminal investigations has been the need to provide substantial resources and infrastructure for the collection, analysis, and storage of samples. Both jurisdictions encountered a number of problems because they provided insufficient resources to effectively use DNA profiling. This study also offers insight into how criminal justice practitioners perceive the dangers of using DNA evidence and how miscarriages of justice can occur. Finally, through an analysis of the combined experiences of criminal justice practitioners, this dissertation challenges the widespread acceptance and routine use of forensic DNA profiling. It further suggests that it is now time to re-consider current practices in relation to how resources are devoted to the technology, and how criminal justice practitioners are using the technology.
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Wylie, Douglas. "EVIDENCE FOR DNA OXIDATION IN SINGLE MOLECULE FLUORESCENCE STUDIES." Ohio University / OhioLINK, 2006. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ohiou1155923690.
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Albertson, Stephanie Lynn Miller. "The influence of jurors' race on perceptions of complex scientific evidence." Access to citation, abstract and download form provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company; downloadable PDF file, 189 p, 2009. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1885755771&sid=2&Fmt=2&clientId=8331&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Maimon, Geva. "A Bayesian approach to the statistical interpretation of DNA evidence." Thesis, McGill University, 2010. http://digitool.Library.McGill.CA:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=92221.
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This dissertation sets forth a foundation for a continuous model for the interpretation of DNA mixture evidence. We take a new approach to modelling electropherogram data by modelling the actual electropherogram as a curve rather than modelling the allelic peak areas under the curve. This shift allows us to retain all the data available and to bypass the approximation of peak areas by GeneMapper R (Applied Biosystems, 2003). The two problems associated with the use of this programme - prohibitive costs and patented processes - are thus avoided.To establish a model for electropherogram data, we explore two Bayesian wavelet approaches to modelling functions (Chipman et al., 1997 ; M. Clyde et al., 1998) as well as a Bayesian Adaptive Regression Splines approach (DiMatteo et al., 2001). Furthermore, we establish our own genotyping algorithm, once again circumventing the need for GeneMapper R, and obtain posterior probabilities for the resulting genotypes.
With a model in place for single-source DNA samples, we develop an algorithm that deconvolves a two-person mixture into its separate components and provides the posterior probabilities for the resulting genotype combinations.
In addition, because of the widely recognized need to perform further research on continuous models in mixture interpretation and the difficulty in obtaining the necessary data to do so (due to privacy laws and laboratory restrictions), a tool for simulating realistic data is of the utmost importance. PCRSIM (Gill et al., 2005) is the most popular simulation software for this purpose. We propose a method for refining the parameter estimates used in PCRSIM in order to simulate more accurate data.
Cette dissertation établit les fondations nécessaires à la création d'un modèle continu servant à l'interprétation des échantillons d'ADN à sources multiples (mélanges). Nous prenons une nouvelle approche de la modélisation des données d'´electrophérogrammes en modélisant l'électrophérogramme en tant que courbe plutôt que de modéliser l'aire sous la courbe des sommets alléliques. Cette approche nous permet de conserver toutes les données disponibles et d'éviter l'estimation de l'aire sous la courbe au moyen de GeneMapper R (Applied Biosystems, 2003). Deux problèmes associés à l'utilisation de ce programme - des coûts prohibitifs et une procédure brevetée - sont ainsi évités.
Afin d'établir un modèle pour les données d'électrophérogramme, nous explorons deux approches bayésiennes pour la modélisation des fonctions par ondelettes (Chipman et al., 1997 ; M. Clyde et al., 1998) de même qu'une approche connue sous le nom de Bayesian Adaptive Regression Splines (DiMatteo et al., 2001). De plus, nous élaborons notre propre algorithme pour l'analyse des génotypes, nous permettant, encore une fois, d'éviter GeneMapper R, et d'obtenir les probabilités postérieures des génotypes résultants.
À l'aide d'un modèle d'échantillon d'ADN à source unique, nous développons un algorithme qui divise un échantillon de deux personnes en ses composantes séparées et estime les probabilités postérieures des différentes combinaisons possibles de génotype.
De plus, en raison des lacunes dans la littérature sur les modèles continus pour l'analyse d'échantillons d'ADN à sources multiples et de la difficulté à obtenir les données n´ecessaire pour l'effectuer (en raison des lois sur la protection de la vie privée et des restrictions en laboratoire), un outil qui simule des données réalistes est de la plus grande importance. PCRSIM (Gill et al., 2005) est un outil qui permet de répondre à ce besoin. Par cet outil, nous proposons une méthode pour raffiner les estimations des paramètres afin de simuler des données plus précises.
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Briody, Michael, and n/a. "The Effects of DNA Evidence on the Criminal Justice Process." Griffith University. School of Criminology and Criminal Justice, 2005. http://www4.gu.edu.au:8080/adt-root/public/adt-QGU20050818.155533.
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This research examines the effects of forensic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence on decisions in the courts and on the conduct of criminal investigations. To assess effects on court decisions, quantitative analyses were conducted using primary data from the State of Queensland. A control-comparison method was used to assess the effects in court, and this was made within a context of other evidentiary and extra-legal factors that had a bearing on case outcomes. These other factors included defendant confessions, independent witness testimony and fingerprint and photographic evidence. A sample of 750 cases referred by police for prosecution and finalised past the appeal stage in court, was selected for examination. Half of these cases utilised DNA evidence, while the other half, as a control group, did not. Cases were selected in four categories: sexual offences, serious assaults, homicides and property crime. Data on the cases were analysed using advanced statistical methods and predictor models were developed to demonstrate how, given case configurations, the addition of DNA evidence could potentially alter court outcomes. Results for the three serious offence types were that DNA evidence emerged as a positive predictor that prosecutors would pursue cases in court, and it demonstrated a powerful influence on jury decisions to convict. Incriminating DNA evidence demonstrated no significant effect on inducing guilty pleas from defendants for serious crimes against the person. However, it did correlate significantly to cases reaching court and to guilty pleas being entered for property offence cases. The analysis of the effects on investigations relies on data from jurisdictions other than Queensland. Secondary data and the literature were used to assess the potential for strategically using forensic intelligence, along with dedicated investigative resources, to reduce property crimes like burglaries and car thefts. In the one study available that employed adequate research methods, three patrol areas in New South Wales, where a police operation was trialled, were compared to other areas that acted as a control. The police operation aimed at 100% attendance at property crime scenes, the use of intelligence from DNA and fingerprint identifications and specialised investigative resources to reduce crime levels. While the operation failed to achieve its goal, it did provide some valuable lessons. The effectiveness of the national criminal DNA database in the UK, reputed to lead the world, was then evaluated in relation to domestic burglaries. Its Australian CrimTrac counterpart did not commence operations until March 2003, and by 2004 was not operating at maximum capacity. Because no published studies were located that measured any effects of the UK database on crime levels, the criterion selected to measure performance was the proportion of convictions achieved through the database to reported crime. For domestic burglaries, this ratio was calculated from secondary official data to be close to one percent (0.01), a figure that included the additional convictions achieved through the intelligence that the database provided. The research also examined forensic DNA in relation to issues of privacy and civil liberties. Privacy issues are discussed beginning with an historical background to the use and misuse of genetic data. This includes the searches for a 'criminal gene' and for genetic links to criminal behaviour. DNA databases are contrasted with databanks, and it is questioned, since we leave our DNA wherever we go, whether it really is private. Civil liberties issues that are discussed include whether providing DNA is a form of self-incrimination; how DNA has helped exonerate the convicted innocent; wrongful convictions based on flawed DNA evidence; whether occasional 'mass screenings' with DNA are a reversal of the onus of proof; concerns with DNA databases and 'function creep', and the planting or 'forgery' of DNA evidence including the use of amplicon contamination. In the final chapter, a balance is sought between on one hand, the goal of police and government to provide a safe society, and on the other, the rights to privacy and civil liberties expected by individuals in Western liberal democracies. The chapter addresses the issues of concern raised in the earlier chapter about privacy and civil liberties, and makes recommendations on how these may be resolved. The general approach favoured is to increase police powers in specific situations, but to couple these with the protection of individual rights through greater regulation of those powers. The research also developed a case prioritising system aimed at helping clear laboratory backlogs.
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Garrett, Amanda Davanne. "Improving DNA evidence collection via quantitative analysis: a systems approach." Thesis, Boston University, 2013. https://hdl.handle.net/2144/12107.
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Thesis (M.A.)--Boston UniversityWhen collecting biological evidence from a crime scene, it is important to determine the most effective and robust collection method to ensure maximum DNA recovery. Some common biological collection methods include swabbing, cutting, scraping, and taping. Although these techniques have been a mainstay of forensic analysis, each of these methods have significant drawbacks, which include but are not limited to, the lack of surface area that may be processed, possible co-elution of PCR inhibitors, and non-optimized elution of cells from the substrate into solution. Therefore, a technique designed to optimize biological collection from items of interest, particularly large items, is necessary and not currently available for forensic use.
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Ge, Jianye. "Computational Algorithms and Evidence Interpretation in DNA Forensics based on Genomic Data." University of Cincinnati / OhioLINK, 2009. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1234916402.
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Seok, Hee young. "A Mosquito DNA Transposon Agh1: Structure, Evolution and Evidence of Activity." Thesis, Virginia Tech, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/35028.
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Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genetic elements. They are a significant component of many eukaryotic genomes. They are involved in chromosomal rearrangement by serving as substrates for homologous recombination, in creating new genes through a process of TE "domestication", and in modifying and shuffling existing genes by transducing neighboring sequences (Lander et al., 2001). Therefore, both active and inactive TEs are potentially potent agents for genomic change (Kidwell and Lisch, 2001, 2002; Rizzon et al., 2002; Petrov et al., 2003). In the meantime, active TEs are being explored as useful tools for genetic transformation and possible gene drive mechanisms to deliver genes in natural populations (Ashburner et al.,1998; Alphey et al.,2002; Handler and O'Brochta, 2004).
My thesis project focuses on AGH1, a novel DNA-mediated TE in Anopheles gambiae and related mosquitoes. I have studied its genomic structure, insertion polymorphism, evolution, and transposition activity.
As part of the sequence and structural characterization of AGH1 in the A. gambiae genome, the boundaries of AGH1were determined. The TA target site duplications flanking AGH1 were verified by comparing a genomic sequence that had an AGH1 insertion with the sequence of a corresponding empty site. AGH1 has relatively long, 350bp, TIRs (Terminal inverted repeats). In addition to the transposase ORF (ORF1) that contains a DD34E catalytic motif, it contains an unusual ORF2 with unknown function. Phylogenic analyses clearly suggest that unlike most DD34E transposons that are similar to the Tc1 family, AGH1 belongs to a different clade that is related to the previously characterized fungal TE Ant and protozoan TEC1 and TEC2. Truncated AGH1 and AGH1-related MITE (Miniature inverted-repeat TE) families were also identified. AGH1 insertion polymorphism was studied using 4 natural populations that belong to two molecular forms of A. gambiae, M and S. AGH1 insertions showed considerable differences between M and S forms and the insertions of AGH1 are highly variable in two populations of M. These results are potentially significant in light of the hypothesis that M forms are newly derived incipient species that are only found in West Africa. PCR and sequencing results showed more than 99% sequence identity between AGH1 sequences in A. gambiae, A. arabiensis, and A. melas, which may indicate either purifying selection or recent horizontal transfer. To assess whether AGH1 is currently active, inverse PCR was performed which provided evidence for extrachromosomal circular AGH1 that may be a product of imprecise excision. RT-PCR detected transcripts for both intact and truncated transposase. Preliminary TE display experiments using genomic DNA isolated from different passages of an A. gambiae Sua1B cell line showed possible new insertions and deletions of AGH1 related elements, which may have been mobilized by AGH1.
In summary, the structural and genomic characteristics of AGH1 and the phylogenetic relationship between AGH1 and other known transposons in the IS630-Tc1-mariner superfamily have been determined. Significant divergence was shown between M and S forms of A. gambiae according to AGH1 insertion patterns. Observations of high level of insertion polymorphism and low insertion frequency per site in M populations are preliminary indications that AGH1 may be active in some populations. AGH1 has at least been recently transposing and there are also indications for its current activity in A. gambiae cell lines.
If AGH1 is indeed active, it has the potential to be used as genetic tools to study mosquito biology and to spread refractory genes into the field populations to help control mosquito-borne diseases. Although a few active DNA transposons have been discovered in different insects and are being used as tools to transform mosquitoes, no DNA active transposons have been reported in mosquitoes. It is our hope that active endogenous DNA transposons may present new features that will help us overcome some of the deficiencies of current transformation tools developed based on exogenous transposons. In addition, the discovery of an active DNA transposon will help us understand how TEs spread in natural populations of mosquitoes, which is critical if we are to use TEs to drive refractory genes into mosquito populations to control vector-borne infectious diseases.
The differential insertion patterns of AGH1 in M and S populations are consistent with the hypothesis that the M and S forms of A. gambiae are in the process of incipient speciation. AgH1 showed much higher levels of insertion polymorphisms in two west African populations of the M molecular form compared to two east African S populations.
Similarly, the maximum level of chromosomal differentiation is observed in west African dry savannah areas, while a much lower degree of chromosomal polymorphism is observed in east Africa. Therefore our insertion data support the hypothesis that the speciation process is likely to be originated in west Africa, probably as the result of the need of ecological flexibility created by the greater ecological variability of this region. From a biomedical perspective, this type of analysis is critical because the genetic differences between M and S forms may directly impact the effectiveness of mosquito control measure and perhaps disease transmission.
Master of Science
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Graham, Richard Abbey. "The presentation and examination of DNA evidence adduced during adversarial trials." Thesis, University of Leeds, 2016. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/15449/.
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This study examines the presentation and examination of DNA evidence in the English Criminal Courts, from the perspective of forensic experts. The methodology involved qualitative analysis of expert perception and opinion, through interview. Much activity has concerned the contribution of faulty expert evidence to miscarriages of justice, however forensic experts have been largely ignored as sources of valuable data. This study is original in specifically examining their experience. Criticisms of expert evidence in the English courts are commonly described as having their origins in detrimental effects of the adversarial trial system, however, the position supported by this study is that many claimed detrimental effects are based on misunderstanding of the workings of adversarial procedure. The study examined experts’ perceptions of challenges they faced in the presentation and examination of DNA evidence, including their duty to offer objective and unbiased opinion. The study determined that whilst experts may give ‘unbiased’ opinion, ‘impartiality’ was practically difficult to achieve because of the different roles played by prosecution and defence experts. Furthermore, a lack of clarity regarding the responsibilities implied by the requirement of remaining ‘unbiased’ meant that experts put different interpretations on their duties in this regard. This study concludes that the policy objectives underlying the concept of ‘unbiased’ should be examined, with a view to better defining appropriate expert responsibilities. The study investigated experience within court. Interviewees reported similar experiences to those faced by forensic experts reported in previous studies. However, evidence in this study supports the proposition that DNA evidence is qualitatively different from older forensic identification techniques. First, the complexity of DNA evidence magnifies many known trial ‘pathologies’ in terms of presentation and examination. Second, it is fundamentally different in that its probabilistic nature means that experts are forced to present it in a rigorously scientific manner. In this way, not only does DNA represent a new paradigm in forensic identification, but it must inevitably force existing tensions between the law and scientific evidence into the open. This study found experts to be generally passive in supplying the demands of the judicial process. This has included passivity in the face of legal rulings on how complex DNA evidence should be presented. From an evidential perspective, this is indubitably a judicial responsibility. This study supports the proposal, however, that steps must be taken to engage scientific experts in the scientific aspects of these determinations, if the ‘new paradigm’ of DNA evidence is not to be diluted. The Government must take a lead in co-ordinating expert bodies towards an integrated approach to complex evidence such as DNA, in the inevitable anticipation that future forensic technologies can only be more complex still. It may do this without infringing the over-riding interests of the adversarial system of justice.
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Tsuda, Masataka. "In vivo evidence for translesion synthesis by the replicative DNA polymerase δ." Kyoto University, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/2433/225985.
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Walton-Williams, Laura. "An evaluation of the transfer and persistence of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) evidence." Thesis, Staffordshire University, 2016. http://eprints.staffs.ac.uk/2786/.
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DNA analysis is now a sufficiently sensitive technique to enable identification of an individual from an extremely small amount of biological material. Exhibits are routinely submitted to forensic laboratories for recovery and analysis of ‘touch DNA’, in order to link an offender to the crime scene. One such exhibit type is spent cartridge cases, where DNA transferred from the handler to the exterior surface of the casing may be the only evidence available for identification of the handler. Alternatively the firearm itself may be recovered, which could also have potential for uncovering the identity of the shooter by means of ‘touch DNA’ profiling. However, the analysis of minute amounts of DNA introduces additional interpretational challenges. The ability to identify the source of a low level DNA sample and the relevance of a recovered DNA profile to the crime scene are not comprehensively understood. The variations in DNA deposition, recovery, transfer and persistence were examined, through a series of controlled laboratory experiments. Volunteers were asked to take part in DNA deposition studies that involved handling items for set periods of time, to determine the variability in the quality of DNA deposited. They were also asked to take part in handshaking studies, where the persistence of DNA, as well as the primary and secondary transfer of DNA, was studied. Additional variables were considered in relation to DNA recovered from spent cartridge cases, including the effect of firing and gunshot residue on DNA quality. DNA was extracted using QIAamp® DNA Mini Kit (Qiagen) and Chelex® (Bio-Rad) protocols and amplified with the AmpFlSTR® SGM Plus® Kit and the AmpFlSTR® Identifiler® Kit (both Applied Biosystems). DNA profiles were analysed on the ABI PRISM™ 310 Genetic Analyser and the ABI PRISM™ 3500 Genetic Analyser (both Applied Biosystems). It was possible to recover a usable DNA profile from a handled item and the quality of DNA deposited after repeated contacts was comparable. The quality of DNA recovered from ‘touch DNA’ samples from different individuals varied, and specific methods for recovery based on surface type were found to increase the likelihood of generating a successful DNA profile. Where an item was handled by more than one individual, the major contributor to the profile was not always that of the final handler. Furthermore, secondary transfer of DNA was observed to some degree in every test sample. This research also highlighted the challenges of interpreting mixed profiles, especially with low levels of DNA present. Identification of the handler of a spent cartridge case was not possible using DNA profiling techniques, due to the increased DNA degradation as a result of conditions experienced during the firing process. However, where a higher yield of DNA was present prior to firing, there was the possibility of recovering an interpretable DNA profile from this type of evidence. The findings of this research should be considered when submitting items for DNA analysis, when considering best practice for recovery of ‘touch DNA’ samples and when attempting to interpret ‘touch DNA’ evidence profiles.
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Hampson, Clint. "Increasing the evidential value of biological evidence." Thesis, Liverpool John Moores University, 2014. http://researchonline.ljmu.ac.uk/4433/.
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With current scientific technologies, a significant amount of genetic information can be obtained from biological evidence found at a crime scene. Not only is it possible to identify the donor of the evidence through routine DNA profiling techniques, but new RNA based methods are being developed to determine the tissue type as well as the physical characteristics of the donor. Despite the information that can be obtained, the ability to determine the age or time the biological material was deposited at the crime scene has eluded the forensic community thus far. Timing is critically important as it could help police determine when the crime was committed. In this body of work an investigation was conducted into whether the degradation rates of nucleic acid macromolecules could serve as molecular clocks for age estimations. An attempt was made to gain a better understanding of the degradation products produced from an internal urban environment and to develop an optimal assay accordingly. A number of different RNA based techniques for ageing both hair and blood samples were also examined. Degradation assays have been traditionally designed around amplicon size however, it was established that testing loci stability is an essential requirement in the optimisation process. The results presented in this thesis suggest the reliability of the data can be increased when the two competing target species are selected from the same loci, which minimised the effect of loci susceptibility to degradation. It was determined that blood stains aged up to 60 days in an internal urban environment were best distinguished (in terms of age estimations) by using targets that differed in size by 170 to 240 base pairs, with one of the targets being between 200 and 300 base pairs in length. Despite using a robust TH01 qPCR assay it was established that an internal “urban” environment was not as stable as predicted and that seasonal temperature variation had a large effect on degradation rates. Interpretation of the results was therefore limited suggesting these optimised target sizes may only be relevant to the winter months. Using a carefully designed hermetically sealed dry swab we were able to remove moisture and inhibit the growth of DNA consuming micro-organisms. It was determined that bacteria alone can cause a 2-fold increase in the degradation rate of a sample aged at room temperature. In terms of integrity, storing samples at room temperature in a moisture free environment was equivalent to storing standard samples (exposed to normal humidity levels) in refrigerated conditions. It was also determined that the effect of bacterial degradation can be halved by lowering the storage temperature from room temperature to 4°C. RNA was examined in an attempt to reduce the large variations that had inhibited previous DNA methodologies. IL-6 and TNF-α were initially selected due to their rapid post-extraction change in expression levels. However, their levels were highly variable, unpredictable and therefore not suitable for this type of analysis even on samples that had been aged for only ten days. It is thought that their dynamic roles in a number of haemopoietic processes could be responsible for the poor results. A new RNA methodology, as described by Nolan et al (2008) was used to analyse samples that had been aged over 80 days. Four targets, AMICA1, MNDA, CASP1 and GAPDH were chosen based on their cell lineage as it was hypothesised that inter-donor variation could be reduced by using targets confined to the granulocytic cell lineage. Using the novel 3’/5’ assay, AMICA1, MNDA and CASP1 all performed poorly and no correlation could be determined between the 3’/5’ ratio and sample age. GAPDH showed some encouraging results with a correlation of 0.912 (age to 3’/5’ ratio) although initial stability over the first 20 days and the inter-donor variation were still limiting factors. It was also thought that the various mRNA degradation processes, in particular the 5’/3’ exonuclease activity, contributed to the poor results generally. A large inter-donor variation was a common aspect to all the blood based methodologies trialled. This meant that none of the methods had any practical value. As a result, an alternative RNA method was used to determine if it was possible to age another forensically important type of biological evidence; hair. Using a Reverse Transcription Quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assay, we monitored the Relative Expression Ratio (RER) of two different RNA species (18S rRNA and B-actin mRNA) in hair samples that were aged naturally over a period of three months. Overall the results presented here suggest that the age of hair samples containing follicular tags can be approximated using a second order polynomial (Age = 3.31RER2 - 2.85RER – 0.54), although with limitations.
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Wheate, Rhonda Marie Physical Environmental & Mathematical Sciences Australian Defence Force Academy UNSW. "Jury comprehension and use of forensic science." Awarded by:University of New South Wales - Australian Defence Force Academy. School of Physical, Environmental and Mathematical Sciences, 2007. http://handle.unsw.edu.au/1959.4/38644.
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The ability of jurors and juries to comprehend and utilise scientific evidence in Australian criminal trials has been examined. From mock jury surveys relating to DNA profiling evidence, it was determined that most respondents were able to comprehend some basic and applied statistics, although their ability was in part related to their knowledge of English and their level of education. The point at which mock jurors were prepared to convict an accused solely on the basis of DNA profiling evidence was examined and found to be low compared with the strength of DNA profiling evidence commonly presented in Australian courts. Mock jurors also demonstrated the ability to process evidence that was presented in a Bayesian framework; commencing with prior odds, introducing new information and culminating in posterior odds. From a survey of Australian forensic scientists, including fraud investigators, it was found that most practitioners' concerns could be addressed by greater pre-trial consultation between experts and legal advocates. Improved knowledge within the legal profession concerning the jargon, principles, procedures, limitations and conclusions to be drawn from different scientific disciplines, prior to presenting this evidence in court, is recommended as the means by which complex evidence can be better adduced from expert witnesses and better presented to juries in criminal trials. Finally, from interviewing actual jurors in criminal trials in the Australian Capital Territory it was determined that where jurors' expectations of scientific evidence, particularly DNA profiling evidence, are not met, high levels of juror frustration and speculation may culminate in hung juries. The adversarial setting of criminal proceedings was also found to produce an environment in which jurors felt that information that would assist them in reaching a verdict was being deliberately withheld. The ability of the jury to ask questions and the allowed nature of those questions were also examined, with the resultant recommendation that juries be given more explicit information at the commencement of trials to inform them about their rights and obligations when asking questions.
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Uhl, Elizabeth Rose. "Prosecutorial perseveration a reaction to public commitment? /." To access this resource online via ProQuest Dissertations and Theses @ UTEP, 2008. http://0-proquest.umi.com.lib.utep.edu/login?COPT=REJTPTU0YmImSU5UPTAmVkVSPTI=&clientId=2515.
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Bolnick, Deborah Ann. "The genetic prehistory of eastern North America : evidence from ancient and modern DNA /." For electronic version search Digital dissertations database. Restricted to UC campuses. Access is free to UC campus dissertations, 2005. http://uclibs.org/PID/11984.
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Kasu, Mohaimin. "The validation of forensic DNA extraction systems to utilize soil contaminated biological evidence." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/5921.
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Lamarche, Brandon James. "Error-prone DNA repair in the African swine fever virus characterization of six abasic site processing activities and evidence for a mutagenic function /." Connect to resource, 2005. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc%5Fnum=osu1117656158.
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Marrot, Laurent. "Mise en evidence du polymorphisme de l'adn a l'aide de sondes chimiques." Orléans, 1988. http://www.theses.fr/1988ORLE2010.
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Le polymorphisme de l'adn et les distorsions induites par la fixation d'un agent antitumoral: le cis-ddp sont etudies a l'aide de reactifs specifiques de la nature et de la conformation des bases. Le bromo ou chloroacetaldehyde permet de cartographier les adenines et les cytosines d'une sequence en conformation z et des jonctions adn-b-adn-z. La caracterisation des distorsions induites par le cis-ddp sur des oligonucleotides et sur les fragments d'adn a ete realisee a l'aide de sondes chimiques. L'accessibilite de la thymine complementaire de l'adenine d'un adduit d(apg) depend de la sequence environnante, la cytosine complementaire n'est pas accessible
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Sanders, Christine. "THE USE AND DEVELOPMENT OF LASER MICRODISSECTION TO SEPARATE SPERMATOZOA FROM EPITHELIAL CELLS FOR STR ANALYSIS." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2005. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/3869.
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Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis has become a valuable tool in identifying the source of biological stains, particularly from the investigation of sexual assault crimes. Difficulties in analysis arise primarily in the interpretation of mixed genotypes when cell separation of the sexual assailant's sperm from the victim's cells is incomplete. The forensic community continues to seek improvements in cell separation methods from mixtures for DNA typing. This report describes the use of laser microdissection (LMD) for the separation of pure populations of spermatozoa from two-donor cell mixtures. In this study, cell separation was demonstrated by microscopic identification of histologically stained spermatozoa and female buccal cell mixtures, and STR analysis of DNA obtained from the separated sperm cells. Clear profiles of the male donor were obtained with the absence of any additional alleles from the female donor. Five histological stains were evaluated for use with LMD and DNA analysis: hematoxylin/eosin, nuclear fast red/picroindigocarmine, methyl green, Wright's stain, and acridine orange. Hematoxylin/eosin out-performed all other stains however nuclear fast red/picroindigocarmine could be used satisfactorily with STR analysis. In addition, three DNA isolation methods were evaluated for LMD collected cells: QIAamp (Qiagen), microLYSIS (Microzone Ltd.) and Lyse-N-Go (Pierce Chemical Co.). MicroLYSIS performed poorly, yielding low levels of PCR product. Lyse-N-Go extraction was effective for the recovery of DNA from LMD collected sperm cells while QIAamp isolation performed best for the recovery of DNA from LMD collected epithelial cells. LMD is shown to be an effective, low-manipulation separation method that enables the recovery of sperm while excluding epithelial cell DNA.M.S.
Department of Chemistry
Arts and Sciences
Industrial Chemistry
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Agrawal, Sungeeta. "Evidence for Association of Non-acetylated Histones with Newly Replicated Epstein-Barr Virus DNA." Yale University, 2010. http://ymtdl.med.yale.edu/theses/available/etd-03012010-195543/.
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Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) has two states of infection, latent and lytic. During the latent state the viral genome remains stable in cells as episomes and replicates with cellular DNA. During the lytic cycle the viral DNA becomes amplified and packaged in newly formed virions. An unsolved problem is whether newly replicated EBV DNA produced upon lytic cycle activation is associated with histones, and if so, whether these histones are acetylated. This question has biological significance as knowing the chromatin structure of genes is important in determining their function and expression profile. Our hypothesis is that newly synthesized EBV lytic DNA is associated with histones and the histone tails are selectively acetylated. To investigate our hypothesis we performed chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) in HH514-16 cells, a Burkitts Lymphoma cell line, during latent and lytic replication. We used quantitative PCR (qPCR) to detect the relative concentration of DNA among the different samples. We tested three different variables: type of inducing agent, duration of treatment, and different regulatory regions in the genome of Epstein-Barr Virus. We found that in cells induced into the lytic cycle with Trichostatin A (TSA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi), association of newly replicated EBV DNA with acetylated histone 3 (H3) increased ~ 6-10 fold. This increase in association was greatest 72 hrs after treatment. Furthermore, activation of lytic viral replication in HH514-16 cells using a different inducing agent, Azacytidine (AZC), which is known to function as a DNA methyltransferase inhibitor, increased binding of H3 with viral DNA ~8 fold. However, unlike TSA, AZC increased the acetylation state of histones bound to newly synthesized viral DNA only ~ 2 fold. Changing the regulatory region of the EBV genome analyzed in qPCR did not affect our results. Our results suggest that newly replicated viral DNA is associated with histones, a fraction of which are acetylated. The degree of acetylation likely depends on the agent used to induce the lytic cycle. H3 is highly acetylated when an HDACi is used and less acetylated when AZC is used. Our study provides new insight on the epigenetic profile of newly replicated viral DNA during the lytic cycle. It remains to be determined whether histones are packaged together with viral genomes into virions and whether the chromatin state of virion DNA affects gene expression after the virus enters uninfected cells.
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Stukes, James Bernard. "Evidence for the association of NR1 plasmid DNA with inner membrane of proteus mirabilis." DigitalCommons@Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center, 1986. http://digitalcommons.auctr.edu/dissertations/1539.
Full textAbstract:
The examination of exponent i ally grown Proteus mirabilis, in the absence and presence of chloramphenicol revealed NR1 plasmid DNA-membrane complexes when isolated on 10-30% neutral sucrose (CLOS) gradients. Subsequent analysis of CLOS generated pl asmid DNA-membrane fract ions on 30- 50% isopycnic step neutral slJcrose gradients indicated preferential association of the plasmid DNA with the inner cytoplasmic membrane. In addition, plasmid DNA-membrane complexes isolated by the Clewell-Helinski "cleared lysate" procedure indicated preferential association with the inner cytoplasmic membrane, as well.
Agarose gel analysis of covalently closed circular (CCC) NR1, isolated from exponentially grown cultures of P. mirabilis in the presence of chloramphenicol revealed that the plasmid molecules maintained their composite structure of 60 Mdaltons, and did not undergo transitioning. Further, EcoR! restriction digest of these molecules confirmed the existence of NR1 plasmid DNA.
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Shalbaf, Mohammad. "More evidence for H2O2-mediated oxidative stress in vitiligo-increased epidermal DNA damage / repair." Thesis, University of Bradford, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10454/4326.
Full textAbstract:
Nowdays there is a plethora of evidence for H2O2-mediated oxidative stress in the
epidermis as well as in the system in patients with vitiligo (for review see
(Schallreuter, Bahadoran et al. 2008). Xanthine dehydrogenase / xanthine oxidase
(XDH / XO) catalyses the oxidative hydroxylation of hypoxanthine to xanthine
followed by xanthine to uric acid, the last two steps in purine degradation pathway.
Under oxidative conditions, XDH is converted to XO. The reactions catalysed by this
enzyme generate H2O2 and O2
¿-
, yielding in the presence of ROS accumulation,
allantoin from uric acid. Therefore XO has been considered a major biologic source of
oxygen-derived free radicals in many organs. The presence of XO in the human
epidermis has not been shown so far. In this study several techniques were utilised to
nail the presence and activity of XO in epidermal melanocytes and keratinocytes.
The enzyme is regulated by H2O2 in a concentration dependent manner, where
concentrations of 10-6M upregulate activity. Importantly, the results showed that the
activity of XO is little affected by H2O2 in the mM range. H2O2-mediated oxidation of
tryptophan and methionine residues in the sequence of XO yields only subtle
alterations in the enzyme active site. These findings are in agreement with enzyme
kinetics in the presence of 10-3M H2O2. Since uric acid is the end product of XO
activity and this can be oxidised to allantoin by H2O2, we wanted to know whether
allantoin is formed in the epidermis of patients with vitiligo. In order to address this
issue, we utilised HPLC/mass spectrometry analysis. Analysis of epidermal cell
extracts from suction blister tissue identified the presence of allantoin in patients with
acute vitiligo, while this product was absent in healthy controls. In conclusion, our
results provide evidence for functioning epidermal XO in the human epidermis which
4
can be a major source for the production of H2O2 contributing to oxidative stress in
vitiligo.
In addition, this thesis also demonstrates for the first time the presence of XO in
melanosomes, and we showed that both 7BH4 and 7-biopterin inhibit XO activity in a
concentration dependent manner. Moreover, XO has the potential to bind to 6/7BH4
and 6/7-biopterin from the pterin/tyrosinase inhibitor complex. This discovery adds
another receptor independent mechanism for regulation of tyrosinase within the
melanocyte similar to ¿/ß-MSH as shown earlier (Moore, Wood et al. 1999; Spencer,
Chavan et al. 2005).
Since the entire epidermis of patients with vitiligo is under H2O2-mediated oxidative
stress, oxidative DNA damage would be highly expected. This thesis shows for the
first time that epidermal 8-oxoG levels as well as plasma level of this oxidised DNA
base are significantly increased in patients compared to healthy controls. We have
shown that epidermal cells from patients with vitiligo respond to oxidative DNA
damage via the overexpression of p21 and Gadd45¿ leading to a functioning
increased short-patch base-excision repair (BER), while increased apoptosis can be
ruled out due to lower caspase 3 and cytochrome c response compared to healthy
controls. Our results show that patients develop effective DNA repair machinery via
hOgg1, APE1 and DNA polymeraseß. Taking into consideration that these patients do
not have an increased prevalence for solar-induced skin cancers, our data suggest that
BER is a major player in the hierarchy to combat H2O2-mediated oxidative stress
preventing ROS-induced tumourigenesis in the epidermis of these patients.
24
Xu, Yuan Chang. "The validity of bite mark evidence for legal purposes." University of Western Cape, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/11394/8193.
Full textAbstract:
Magister Scientiae Dentium - MSc(Dent)Bite mark evidence has been admitted into US courts since the 1870s. It quickly gained popularity after the conviction of W.E. Marx in 1974 for manslaughter using primarily bite mark evidence. However, since the development of DNA typing and testing in forensic science, the emergence of wrongful convictions has placed the validity of bite mark evidence admissibility into severe dispute. This mini-thesis is a condensation of the past ten years’ worth of literature on the latest researches regarding bite mark evidence. The theory of the uniqueness of the human dentition is analysed. The accurate reproducibility of bite mark on skin with regard to distortion is discussed. Some bite mark court cases, including wrongful convictions are explored. Inconsistent expert opinions and the lack of standards amongst practitioners are also examined. The aim of this study is to summarize the validity of bite mark evidence in the courts of law.
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Cupido, Danielle. "The assessment of the utility and impact of sexual assault evidence collection kits (SAECKS) as DNA evidence in suspected cases of rape." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/15457.
Full textAbstract:
The results from this study show the value of good basic medical practices in documentation of injuries, rather than more costly DNA evidence, in assisting courts in rape cases. However, the researchers do argue that in South Africa, as a middle-income country with a high percentage of non-intimate partner rapes, there would be an advantage in improving the system to collect and analyse DNA evidence rather than abandoning it completely. These results taken together suggest that DNA evidence can assist in signifying that sexual act has transpired however it is more likely that convictions will occur if evidence of physical injury is available, as DNA evidence cannot reveal if consent was obtained or not. As stated above South Africa has one of the highest rates of rape worldwide.
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Chung, Yuk-ka, and 鍾玉嘉. "On the evaluation and statistical analysis of forensic evidence in DNAmixtures." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 2011. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B45983586.
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Shalbaf, Mohammad. "More evidence for H₂O₂-mediated oxidative stress in vitiligo-increased epidermal DNA damage / repair." Thesis, University of Bradford, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10454/4326.
Full textAbstract:
Nowdays there is a plethora of evidence for H₂O₂-mediated oxidative stress in the epidermis as well as in the system in patients with vitiligo (for review see (Schallreuter, Bahadoran et al. 2008). Xanthine dehydrogenase/xanthine oxidase (XDH/XO) catalyses the oxidative hydroxylation of hypoxanthine to xanthine followed by xanthine to uric acid, the last two steps in purine degradation pathway. Under oxidative conditions, XDH is converted to XO. The reactions catalysed by this enzyme generate H₂O₂ and O₂̇⁻, yielding in the presence of ROS accumulation, allantoin from uric acid. Therefore XO has been considered a major biologic source of oxygen-derived free radicals in many organs. The presence of XO in the human epidermis has not been shown so far. In this study several techniques were utilised to nail the presence and activity of XO in epidermal melanocytes and keratinocytes. The enzyme is regulated by H₂O₂ in a concentration dependent manner, where concentrations of 10-6M upregulate activity. Importantly, the results showed that the activity of XO is little affected by H₂O₂ in the mM range. H₂O₂-mediated oxidation of tryptophan and methionine residues in the sequence of XO yields only subtle alterations in the enzyme active site. These findings are in agreement with enzyme kinetics in the presence of 10-3M H₂O₂. Since uric acid is the end product of XO activity and this can be oxidised to allantoin by H₂O₂, we wanted to know whether allantoin is formed in the epidermis of patients with vitiligo. In order to address this issue, we utilised HPLC/mass spectrometry analysis. Analysis of epidermal cell extracts from suction blister tissue identified the presence of allantoin in patients with acute vitiligo, while this product was absent in healthy controls. In conclusion, our results provide evidence for functioning epidermal XO in the human epidermis which 4 can be a major source for the production of H₂O₂ contributing to oxidative stress in vitiligo. In addition, this thesis also demonstrates for the first time the presence of XO in melanosomes, and we showed that both 7BH4 and 7-biopterin inhibit XO activity in a concentration dependent manner. Moreover, XO has the potential to bind to 6/7BH4 and 6/7-biopterin from the pterin/tyrosinase inhibitor complex. This discovery adds another receptor independent mechanism for regulation of tyrosinase within the melanocyte similar to α/ß-MSH as shown earlier (Moore, Wood et al. 1999; Spencer, Chavan et al. 2005). Since the entire epidermis of patients with vitiligo is under H₂O₂-mediated oxidative stress, oxidative DNA damage would be highly expected. This thesis shows for the first time that epidermal 8-oxoG levels as well as plasma level of this oxidised DNA base are significantly increased in patients compared to healthy controls. We have shown that epidermal cells from patients with vitiligo respond to oxidative DNA damage via the overexpression of p21 and Gadd45α leading to a functioning increased short-patch base-excision repair (BER), while increased apoptosis can be ruled out due to lower caspase 3 and cytochrome c response compared to healthy controls. Our results show that patients develop effective DNA repair machinery via hOgg1, APE1 and DNA polymeraseß. Taking into consideration that these patients do not have an increased prevalence for solar-induced skin cancers, our data suggest that BER is a major player in the hierarchy to combat H₂O₂-mediated oxidative stress preventing ROS-induced tumourigenesis in the epidermis of these patients.
28
Soukup, Sheryl Swartz Thompson Charles F. "Social mating system and realized reproductive success in house wrens (Troglodytes aedon) evidence from DNA fingerprinting /." Normal, Ill. Illinois State University, 1996. http://wwwlib.umi.com/cr/ilstu/fullcit?p9633427.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (Ph. D.)--Illinois State University, 1996.Title from title page screen, viewed May 25, 2006. Dissertation Committee: Charles F. Thompson, Angelo P. Capparella (co-chairs), Steven A. Juliano, Anthony J. Otsuka, Scott K. Sakaluk, David F. Weber. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 78-84) and abstract. Also available in print.
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Makasa, Innocent. "Evaluating the role of DNA evidence in sexual offence cases in Zambia between 2007 and 2014." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/24477.
Full textAbstract:
Zambia has reported high incidences of sexual abuse against women and children in recent years. Zambian law categorises sexual offences into; rape, defilement, incest and others, with defilement constituting the majority of the cases (>89%). Between 2010 and 2012, only <39% of defilement cases were taken to court, and convictions were achieved in only 13% of the cases reported to the police. Literature was reviewed to determine factors which contributed towards the resolution of criminal cases, and it was found that DNA evidence was prominent in resolving crimes, specifically as an identification tool in sexual offences. Currently there is no empirical evidence describing how DNA evidence has been used in resolving sexual crimes in Zambia. The causes of low prosecution and conviction rates have also not been investigated. A retrospective study was therefore conducted to evaluate the role of DNA evidence in sexual offence cases in Zambia, reported to eight major police stations in Lusaka between 2007 to 2014 (n=1154). Sexual offence cases comprised rape (n=74, 6.4%), defilement of a child under the age of sixteen years (n=1028; 89.1%), incest (n=7; 0.6%) and others (n=45; 3.9%). Only 14 (0.1%) of the cases had forensic samples collected in the form of a vaginal swab for the sole purpose of determining the presence of semen. In all cases where a suspect was identified (60%), identification was based on the witness/victim testimonies, and in no case was forensic DNA evidence used to assist in identification or corroborate the testimonies. Overall, 28.1% cases were taken to court and the conviction rate was 12.4%. If no injuries were observed on a victim aged between 0 - 5 years, the case was not taken to court. It was also observed that the younger the victim, the more likely the accused was not identified (p < 0.001), victims did not know the date of occurrence (p < 0.001), and the case was closed due to insufficient evidence. These findings support the use of employing forensic DNA evidence in sexual offence cases to aid the identification of suspects, either in the absence of witness/victim testimonies or alongside as corroborative evidence, which is hypothesised to increase the number of cases prosecuted in Zambia. At the time of this study there was no standardised protocol for the forensic investigations of sexual offences in Zambia, which to some extent, led to numerous missing data. Development and use of the national protocol and use of a validated sexual assault evidence collection kit may help mitigate the deficiencies and inconsistencies witnessed during this study.
30
McGinley, Susan. "The Co-Evolution of a Beetle and a Plant: DNA Evidence Shows Survival of Ancient Association." College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Arizona (Tucson, AZ), 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10150/622212.
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Exell, Jack. "Spectroscopic evidence for catalytically-required FEN1-mediated DNA conformational change : a novel strategy for FEN1 inhibition." Thesis, University of Sheffield, 2015. http://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/10151/.
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Jarvis, Karl J. "Phylogeny and Biogeography of Ice Crawlers (Insecta: Grylloblattodea): Evidence from Six Molecular Loci." BYU ScholarsArchive, 2005. https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/etd/446.
Full textAbstract:
Ice crawlers (Insecta: Grylloblattodea) are rarely encountered insects that consist of five genera representing 26 species from North America and Asia. Asian grylloblattids are the most diverse, but North American ice crawlers (genus Grylloblatta) are known for their adaptation to cold conditions. Phylogenetic relationships among grylloblattid species and genera are not known. Late Pleistocene glaciations had a major effect on the current Grylloblatta distribution, because their specific habitat requirements restrict them to small geographical areas. Six genes were sampled in 37 individuals for 18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, histone 3, 12S rRNA, 16S rRNA, and cytochrome oxidase II (COII) from 27 populations of Grylloblatta, three populations from Japan (genus Galloisiana), and three populations from Russia (genus Grylloblattina). An additional 35 individuals from these localities were sampled for COII only. Phylogenetic analysis with two mantophasmid outgroups in POY indicates monophyletic genera, with Grylloblatta as sister to Grylloblattina. Two major lineages exist within Grylloblatta: a clade in Northern California and Oregon and a clade in Washington and Oregon. One new species and up to six candidate spacies are possible based on these data. Fossils and geological events provide little evidence for dating grylloblattid divergence times. At least six Grylloblatta lineages existed before the end of the Pleistocene glaciation. Conservation status for each lineage is proposed, based on IUCN Red List Conservation Criteria.
33
DePue, John E. "Limited geneflow among reintroduced river otter populations in Colorado evidence from DNA collected with a novel method /." Laramie, Wyo. : University of Wyoming, 2007. http://proquest.umi.com/pqdweb?did=1445034451&sid=1&Fmt=2&clientId=18949&RQT=309&VName=PQD.
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Rutaisire, Justus, Anthony John Booth, C. Masembe, S. Nyakaana, and V. B. Muwanika. "Evolution of Labeo victorianus predates the Pleistocene desiccation of Lake Victoria: evidence from mitochondrial DNA sequence variation." South African Journal of Science, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007924.
Full textAbstract:
Geological data show that Lake Victoria dried out some 15 000 years ago. These data suggest that the entire faunal diversity within the lake has evolved since this time. However, mitochondrial DNA sequence diversity in the endemic cyprinid fish, Labeo victorianus, was high (24 haplotypes in 38 individuals; percentage sequence divergence of 0.74%), suggesting that the evolution of this species predates this Late Pleistocene climatological event. This finding is consistent with what has been reported earlier for cichlid fishes in the lake.
35
Hartwell, Lianna M. "The use of circumstantial evidence in convicting defendants in high profile murder cases." Honors in the Major Thesis, University of Central Florida, 2009. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETH/id/1271.
Full textAbstract:
This item is only available in print in the UCF Libraries. If this is your Honors Thesis, you can help us make it available online for use by researchers around the world by following the instructions on the distribution consent form at http://library.ucf.edu/Systems/DigitalInitiatives/DigitalCollections/InternetDistributionConsentAgreementForm.pdf You may also contact the project coordinator, Kerri Bottorff, at kerri.bottorff@ucf.edu for more information.Bachelors
Health and Public Affairs
Legal Studies
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Ostojic, Lilliana. "Transforming a body of knowledge, an exploratory study of the use of DNA evidence in sexual assault investigations." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1999. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk1/tape10/PQDD_0024/MQ51438.pdf.
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Bellstedt, Peter [Verfasser], Frank [Akademischer Betreuer] Große, and Manuel E. [Akademischer Betreuer] Than. "Evidence for multiple functions of Aprataxin in DNA damage repair / Peter Bellstedt. Gutachter: Frank Große ; Manuel E. Than." Jena : Thüringer Universitäts- und Landesbibliothek Jena, 2014. http://d-nb.info/1052020429/34.
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Feijó, Adriana Maria de Vasconcelos. "A prova pericial do DNA e o direito à identidade genética." Universidade Católica de Pernambuco, 2007. http://www.unicap.br/tede//tde_busca/arquivo.php?codArquivo=349.
Full textAbstract:
Este trabalho aborda a utilização da prova pericial no DNA para fins de tutela do direito à identidade genética e identifica a possibilidade de determjnação da condução coercitiva do réu na hipótese de recusa deste em se submeter à prova pericial no DNA, quando o objeto desta prova é a determinação do vínculo biológico, a partir da aplicação do princípio da dignidade da pessoa humana, do critério da ponderação de interesses em face de colisão de direitos fundamentais, do princípio da proporcionalidade, do abuso de direito, do princípio da colaboração e do dever de verdade, como fundamentos do direito processual civil contemporâneo. A metodologia adotada é a explicativa, com base em levantamento bibliográfico, jurisprudencial e da legislação vigente. A conclusão aponta para a possibilidade de realização da prova pericial no DNA independentemente da anuência do réu, quando o objeto da prova é a determinação do vínculo biológico entre as partes, reconhecendo o direito à identidade genética corno um direito fundamental implícito
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Du, Fang. "Gene flow - dependent introgression and species delimitation : evidence from mtDNA & cpDNA variation in spruce." Thesis, Bordeaux 1, 2010. http://www.theses.fr/2010BOR14179/document.
Full textAbstract:
L'introgression est un processus fréquent et qui a d'importantes conséquences évolutives. L'objectif de ce travail était de tester un modèle neutre d'introgression chez des épicéas du Plateau tibétain et des régions voisines. Le travail a permis de mettre en évidence que la direction de l'introgression pouvait être prédite par la dynamique passée des populations d'arbres, et que l'importance de cette introgression était inversement proportionnelle à l'intensité des échanges génétiques au sein de l'espèce invasive, grâce à la comparaison de la structure génétique basée sur des marqueurs chloroplastiques (à hérédité paternelle) et mitochondriaux (à hérédité maternelle)Introgression is a widespread phenomenon with potentially profound evolutionaryconsequences. Recently, significant progress in our understanding of introgression hasbeen made with the development of a neutral model. This model predicts that, whenone species invades an area already occupied by a related species, introgression ofneutral genes takes place mainly from the local species towards the invading ones. Inaddition, following a contact between two hybridizing species, the model predicts thatintrogression should be particularly frequent for genome components experiencinglittle gene flow. However, to date, there was no empirical example available, in whichone species expanded into the range of a closely related one and two markers withcontrasted rates of gene flow had been studied for both species. Only in such a casecould the two predictions outlined above be tested simultaneously. In addition, basedon these two predictions, species delimitation should be more efficient when usingmolecular markers experiencing high rates of gene flow. The present thesis was designed to test the hypotheses of this model. The biologicalmodel used was conifers, a group in which introgression and hybridization arecommon because of incomplete reproductive isolation. The species investigatedbelong to the genus Picea (spruce). We focused on two species complexes,represented by monographic clades in a phylogenetic study using the chloroplast genematK. All species studied occur in the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) and adjacenthighlands. The phylogeography of these species complexes was reconstructed usingorganelle markers (mitochondrial DNA, mtDNA and chloroplast DNA, cpDNA). Inconifers, mtDNA and cpDNA have contrasted modes of inheritance. The former ismaternally inherited, transmitted by seeds experiencing little gene flow while thelatter is paternally inherited, transmitted by both pollen and seeds experiencing highlevels of gene flow. Therefore, uniparentally inherited mtDNA and cpDNA markersexperience different rates of gene flow in such a group, providing an ideal model to test the relationship between rates of gene flow, introgression and species delimitation.Two mtDNA fragments (nad1intron b/c; nad5 intron1) and three cpDNA fragments(ndhK-C；trnL-trnF；trnS-trnG) were sequenced for nine species belonging to thePicea asperata and P. likiangensis species complex.(1) Nine mtDNA and nine cpDNA haplotypes were detected in 459 individualsfrom 46 natural populations in five species of P. asperata complex. As found in mostconifer species studied so far, low variation is present in the two mtDNA intronsalong with a high level of differentiation among populations (GST = 0.90). In contrast,higher variation and lower differentiation among populations was found at cpDNAmarkers (GST = 0.56). The cpDNA, although far from being fully diagnostic, is morespecies-specific than mtDNA: four groups of populations were identified usingcpDNA markers, all of them related to species or groups of species, whereas formtDNA, geographical variation prevails over species differentiation. A literaturereview shows that mtDNA variants are often shared among related conifer species,whereas cpDNA variants are more species-specific. Hence, increased intraspecificgene flow appears to decrease differentiation within species but not among species.[...]
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Makwarela, Azwimpheleli M. "An assessment of the subgeneric classification of Zygophyllum (Zygophyllaceae) in Southern Africa : evidence from noncoding trnL-trnF chloroplast DNA sequences." Thesis, Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/10019.1/52099.
Full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.Sc.(Systematics and Biodiversity Science))-- Stellenbosch University, 2001.ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Sequence data from the intron and the spacer of the trnL-F chloroplast DNA region were used to study the phylogenetic relationships of the genus Zygophyllum L. (Zygophylloideae: Zygophyllaceae) in the southern African region. The chloroplast DNA was extracted from both herbarium and silica-gel dried material. Closely related genera, i.e. Augea Thunb., Fagonia L. and Tetraena Maxim. within the subfamily Zygophylloideae and more distantly related genera Seetzenia R.Br. ex Decne and Tribulus L. were used as outgroups. Sequences revealed length variation mainly due to the presence of indels (insertions and deletions). Phylogenetic analysis using parsimony revealed two distinct lineages for southern African members of Zygophyllum, corresponding to the proposed subgeneric classification (Van Huysteen 1937; Van Zyl 2000). There is a strong monophyly support for the sections within the subgenus Agrophyllum (Neck.) Endl. However, the transference of the monotypic section Grandifolia Engl. from subgenus Zygophyllum to Agrophyllum is not confirmed, because material of Z. stapffii Schinz. was not available. Despite the morphological evidence for the subdivision of the subgenus Zygophyllum, the molecular data did not confirm the monophyly for its sections. This could be the result of biased sampling, since all the species used in the analyses, except Z. cordifolium L.f. and Z. morgsana L., belong to section Capensia Engl. The trnL region data support the transfer of the mono typic section Morgsana Huysst. from subgenus Agrophyllum to subgenus Zygophyllum. The molecular data also seem to have implications for the biogeography of Zygophyllum. The southern African Agrophyllum representatives are related to East African and Middle East Zygophyllum species, whereas the southern African subgenus Zygophyllum members are closely related to Australian Zygophyllum species.
AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: Die volgorde-data van die trnL-F chloroplas-DNA gebied is gebruik om die filogenetiese verwantskappe van die genus Zygophyllum L. (Zygophylloideae: Zygophyllaceae) in suider Afrika te bestudeer. Die chloroplas-DNA is geëkstraheer van beide herbaria en silica-gel gedroogde materiaal. Naverwante genera binne die subfamilie Zygophylloideae bv. Augea Thunb., Fagonia L. en Tetraena Maxim., sowel as verder verwante genera, soos Seetzenia R.Br. ex Decne en Tribulus L., was as buite-groepe gebruik. Die lengte-variasie in die volgorde-data kan toegeskryf word aan indels (insertions and deletions). Filogenetiese analise deur die gebruik van parsimonie het twee duidelike ontwikkelingslyne vir suider-Afrikaanse Zygophyllum taksa aangedui. Dit stem goed ooreen met die voorgestelde subgeneriese klassifikasiesisteem vir die genus (Van Huysteen1937; Van Zyl 2000). Daar is 'n sterk ondersteuning vir monofilie van die seksies binne die subgenus Agrophyllum (Neck.) Endl. Die oorplasing van die monotipiese seksie Grandifolia Engl. vanaf subgenus Zygophyllum na subgenus Agrophyllum is nie bevestig nie, want materiaal van Z. stapffii Schinz. was nie beskikbaar nie. Ten spyte van morfologiese bewyse vir die subdivisie van die subgenus Zygophyllum het die molekulêre data nie die monofilie van die seksies bevestig nie. Dit is moontlik as gevolg van eensydige data-insameling, aangesien al die spesies wat in die analise gebruik word (behalwe Z. cordifolium L.f. en Z. morgsana L.) aan die seksie Capensia Engl. behoort. Die trnL-gebied data ondersteun die oordra van die monotipiese seksie Morgsana Huysst. van die subgenus Agrophyllum na die subgenus Zygophyllum. Die molekulêre data bied ode inligting oor die biogeografie van Zygophyllum. Die suider-Afrikaanse Agrophyllum taksa is verwant aan Oos-Afrika en Midde-Oosterse Zygophyllum spesies, terwyl lede van die Suid-Afrikaanse subgenus Zygophyllum nouverwant is aan Zygophyllum spesies in Australië.
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Bell, Brian L. "Regulation of Virulence Gene Transcripts by the Francisella Orphan Response Regulator PmrA: Role of Phosphorylation and Evidence of MglA/ SspA Interaction." The Ohio State University, 2009. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1243533090.
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Qvarnström, Fredrik. "DNA Damage Response of Normal Epidermis in the Clinical Setting of Fractionated Radiotherapy : Evidence of a preserved low-dose hypersensitivity response." Doctoral thesis, Uppsala universitet, Enheten för onkologi, 2009. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-101075.
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Investigations of DNA damage response (DDR) mechanisms in normal tissues have implications for both cancer prevention and treatments. The accumulating knowledge about protein function and molecular markers makes it possible to directly trace and interpret cellular DDR in a tissue context. Using immunohistochemical techniques and digital image analysis, we have examined several principal DDR events in epidermis from patients undergoing fractionated radiotherapy. Acquiring biopsies from different regions of the skin provides the possibility to determine in vivo dose response at clinically relevant dose levels throughout the treatment. A crucial event in cellular DDR is the repair of DNA double strand breaks (DSBs). These serious lesions can be directly visualised in cells by detecting foci forming markers such as γH2AX and 53BP1. Our results reveal that DSB-signalling foci can be detected and quantified in paraffin-embedded tissues. More importantly, epidermal DSB foci dose response reveals hypersensitivity, detected as elevated foci levels per dose unit, for doses below ~0.3Gy. The low-dose hypersensitive dose response is observed throughout the treatment course and also in between fractions: at 30 minutes, 3 hours and 24 hours following delivered fractions. The dose response at 24 hours further reveals that foci levels do not return to background levels between fractions. Furthermore, a low-dose hypersensitive dose response is also observed for these persistent foci. Investigations of end points further downstream in the DDR pathways confirmed that the low-dose hypersensitivity was preserved for: the checkpoint regulating p21 kinase inhibitor; mitosis suppression; apoptosis induction and basal keratinocyte reduction. Our results reveal preserved low-dose hypersensitivity both early and late in the DDR pathways. A possible link between the dose-response relationships is therefore suggested. The preserved low-dose hypersensitivity is a cause for re-evaluation of the risks associated with low-dose exposure and has implications for cancer treatments, diagnostics and radiation protection.
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Holmgren, Janne Alexandria. "Beyond the walls of the laboratory, an analysis of defence counsel's access to DNA evidence within the Canadian criminal justice system." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk3/ftp04/mq24157.pdf.
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Qvarnström, Fredrik. "DNA Damage Response of Normal Epidermis in the Clinical Setting of Fractionated Radiotherapy Evidence of a preserved low-dose hypersensitivity response /." Uppsala : Acta Universitatis Upsaliensis : Univ.-bibl. [distributör], 2009. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-101075.
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Md, Maminur Rahman. "Genetic Evidence for the Involvement of Mismatch Repair Proteins, PMS2 and MLH3, in a Late Step of Homologous Recombination." Doctoral thesis, Kyoto University, 2021. http://hdl.handle.net/2433/263575.
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付記する学位プログラム名: 充実した健康長寿社会を築く総合医療開発リーダー育成プログラム京都大学
新制・課程博士
博士(医科学)
甲第23114号
医科博第125号
京都大学大学院医学研究科医科学専攻
(主査)教授 斎藤 通紀, 教授 篠原 隆司, 教授 滝田 順子
学位規則第4条第1項該当
Doctor of Medical Science
Kyoto University
DFAM
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Morgan, Brittany. "Development of Micro Volume DNA and RNA Profiling Assays to Identify the Donor and Tissue Source of Origin of Trace Forensic Biological Evidence." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2013. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/6326.
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In forensic casework analysis it is necessary to obtain genetic profiles from increasingly smaller amounts of biological material left behind by perpetrators of crime. The ability to obtain profiles from trace biological evidence is demonstrated with so-called 'touch DNA evidence' which is perceived to be the result of DNA obtained from shed skin cells transferred from donor to an object or person during physical contact. However, the current method of recovery of trace DNA involves cotton swabs or adhesive tape to sample an area of interest. This "blind-swabbing" approach may result in the recovery of biological material from different individuals resulting in admixed DNA profiles which are often difficult to interpret.
Profiles recovered from these samples are reported to be from shed skin cells with no biological basis for that determination. A specialized approach for the isolation of single or few cells from 'touch DNA evidence' is necessary to improve the analysis and interpretation of recovered profiles. Here we describe the development of optimized and robust micro volume PCR reactions (1-5 uL) to improve the sensitivity and efficiency of 'touch DNA' analysis. These methods will permit not only the recovery of the genetic profile of the donor of the biological material, but permit an identification of the tissue source of origin using mRNA profiling.
Results showed that the 3.5 uL amplification volume, a fraction of the standard 25 uL amplification volume, was the most ideal volume for the DNA assay, as it had very minimal evaporation with a 50% profile recovery rate at a single cell equivalent input (~5 pg) with reducing amplification volume alone. Findings for RNA showed that by reducing both amplification steps, reverse transcriptase PCR (20 uL) and body fluid multiplex PCR (25 uL), to 5 uL, ideal results were obtained with an increase in sensitivity and detection of six different body fluids down to 50 pg.
Once optimized at the trace level, the assays were applied to the collection of single and few cells. DNA findings showed that about 40% of a full profile could be recovered from a single buccal cell, with nearly 80% of a full profile recovered from only two cells. RNA findings from collected skin particles of "touched" surfaces showed accurate skin detection down to 25 particles and detection in one clump of particles. The profiles recovered were of high quality and similar results were able to be replicated through subsequent experiments.
More studies are currently underway to optimize these developed assays to increase profile recovery at the single cell level. Methods of doing so include comparing different locations on touched surfaces for highest bio-particle recovery and the development of physical characteristics of bio-particles that would provide the most ideal results.M.S.
Masters
Chemistry
Sciences
Forensic Science; Forensic Biochemistry Track
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Dunlap, Darren Stephenson. "Evidence for Viral Infection in the Copepods Labidocera aestiva and Acartia tonsa in Tampa Bay, Florida." Scholar Commons, 2012. http://scholarcommons.usf.edu/etd/4032.
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Mesozooplankton are of critical importance to marine food webs by transferring energy from the microbial food web to higher trophic levels and depositing energy to the deeper ocean layers through fecal deposition. While decades of research have shown that viruses have significant impacts in the oceans, and infect a wide range of organisms from bacteria to whales, there is still little known about the impacts of viruses on the mesozooplankton community. As copepods are the most abundant mesozooplankton group, this study sought to characterize the viruses present in natural populations of the calanoid copepods Acartia tonsa and Labidocera aestiva in Tampa Bay, Florida. Viral metagenomics revealed two virus genomes, named Acartia tonsa copepod circovirus (AcCopCV) and Labidocera aestiva copepod circovirus (LaCopCV), which were discovered in their respective copepod species. Both viruses show amino-acid similarities to known circoviruses, and phylogenetic and genomic analyses suggest they may be divergent members of the Circoviridae family. LaCopCV was found to be extremely prevalent in the L. aestiva population, with up to 100% of individuals infected. High viral loads for LaCopCV were observed by quantitative PCR, with an average viral load of 1.3x105 copies per individual. In addition, transcription of the LaCopCV replication gene was detected in L. aestiva, demonstrating active viral replication. AcCopCV could be detected sporadically in A. tonsa populations throughout the year. The circoviruses were specific to their respective hosts, and were not detected in the other copepod species or surrounding seawater. Virus-like particles were observed in A. tonsa and L. aestiva under transmission electron microscopy, demonstrating that viruses were actively proliferating in copepod connective tissue, as opposed to gut tissue, parasites, or symbionts. Preliminary results from in-situ hybridization show that the AcCopCV genome can be detected in A. tonsa tissue, linking the discovered genomes to virus propagation in copepod tissue. This is the first study describing viruses in copepods, as well as the first discovery of circoviruses infecting marine organisms. These results suggest that viruses impact marine copepod populations, necessitating further studies to determine the ecological impacts of viruses on the mesozooplankton community.
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Barbosa, Carlos de Almeida. "Engenharia forense: estudo de microvestígios coletados em locais de crime (touch DNA)." Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná, 2017. http://repositorio.utfpr.edu.br/jspui/handle/1/2769.
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As últimas décadas trouxeram grandes avanços tecnológicos às ciências forenses. Um dos marcos dessa evolução foram às pesquisas e os resultados obtidos com a aplicação da Biologia Molecular, como ferramenta de identificação humana a partir da década de 80. Desde então, novos estudos vêm sendo realizados nesta área. Vestígios encontrados em locais de crime são elementos que irão orientar na busca pela elucidação dos fatos. Existem dois tipos de vestígios: os macrovestígios, facilmente identificados e os microvestígios que demandam análises técnicas mais específicas. Dentre os microvestígios, tem-se a impressão digital, que se tornou uma possível fonte de extração de DNA, com um grande potencial de recuperação do material genético. Este trabalho objetivou analisar amostras coletadas em microvestígios de impressões digitais em vários objetos escolhidos como superfície de deposição sendo elas, vidro, metal, plástico, madeira e parede de alvenaria, demonstrando que é possível estabelecer uma ligação entre as amostras de DNA e as impressões digitais encontradas. As amostras foram coletadas de impressões latentes intactas e em esfregaço e impressões digitais intactas e em esfregaço com pó. Os resultados demonstraram a viabilidade de utilização deste tipo de amostra, tendo em vista a recuperação de DNA e o êxito da genotipagem. Os resultados obtidos nas diferentes matrizes analisadas evidenciaram maior êxito na superfície de metal, onde foi possível obter perfil genético íntegro em todas as amostras coletadas e analisadas. Com relação à matriz vidro, nas amostras “intacta latente” e “esfregaço latente” foi possível recuperar perfil genético com mais de 17 locos amplificados. Já nas amostras “intactas e esfregaço com pó”, mesmo com a confirmação da presença de DNA, as quantidades recuperadas foram insuficientes para gerar o eletroferograma. Na matriz madeira, assim como na matriz plástico, foi constatada a presença de DNA, mas em baixa concentração para gerar o eletroferograma. E, por último, as amostras coletadas da matriz parede de alvenaria “intacta latente” e “intacta com pó”, apresentaram respectivamente amplificação de 17 e 19 locos dos 24 presentes no kit. Estudos e experimentos já tornaram esta metodologia viável no Laboratório de Genética Molecular Forense da Polícia Científica do Estado do Paraná, com resultados positivos em diversos casos, identificando suspeitos e contribuindo com a Rede Integrada de Banco de Perfis Genéticos (RIBPG). Os resultados demonstraram a eficiência e a possibilidade de se obter um perfil genético quando se trabalha com este tipo de amostra, tornando esta mais uma ferramenta pericial.The last decades have brought great technological advances to the Forensic Sciences. The Molecular Biology has been used as a tool for human identification since the 80´s, and it has bought fantastic results from this application, being a landmark in the evolution of Forensic Science. Since this decade, new studies have been carried out in this area. Traces found in crime scenes are elements that can guide the search for the elucidation of the facts. There are two types of traces: macro-traces, that are easily identified and micro-traces that requires more specific technical analysis. One of the traces is the digital fingerprint, that is a possible source of DNA extraction, with great potential for recovery of the genetic material. This research has the purpose to analyze samples collected from fingerprints on various objects chosen as deposition surface, such as glass, metal, plastic, wood and masonry wall. This research shows that it is possible to establish a connection between DNA samples and fingerprints. Samples have been collected from intact and intact smears and fingerprints intact and smeared with powder. The results showed the feasibility of using this type of sample, based on the DNA recovery and the success of the genotyping. The results obtained in the different matrices analyzed showed greater results in the metal surface, where it was possible to obtain a complete genetic profile in all the samples Collected and analyzed. In the glass matrix, either the samples "latent intact" or in "latent smear" it was possible to recover genetic profile with more than 17 amplified loci. In the "intact and powder smear" samples, even with confirmation of the presence of DNA, the quantities recovered were insufficient to generate the electropherogram. In the wood matrix, such as in the plastic matrix, the presence of DNA was observed, but at low concentration to generate the electropherogram. Finally, the samples collected from the "latent intact" and "intact with powder" masonry wall samples, respectively, showed amplification of 17 and 19 loci of the 24 present in the kit. Some Studies and experiments have been done in the Forensic Molecular Genetics Laboratory of Scientific Police in Paraná with positive results in many cases, identifying suspects and contributing to the Integrated Network of Gene Prolifiling Banks (RIBPG). These studies have made this methodology feasible. The results show the efficiency and the possibility of obtaining a genetic profile from this type of sample, making this one more important pericial tool.
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Haraldsson, Anna. "Den oskyldigt dömdes utredningsmöjligheter för att ansöka om resning : En studie med särskilt fokus på bevarande av bevismaterial och begäran om DNA-testning efter lagakraftvunnen dom." Thesis, Uppsala universitet, Juridiska institutionen, 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:uu:diva-371791.
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The purpose of this thesis is to examine the wrongfully convicted person’s possibilities for taking investigative measures in his or her own case, in order to apply for post-conviction relief according to 58:2 p.4 of the Swedish Code of Judicial Procedure (SCJP), with a particular focus on preservation of evidence and post-conviction DNA testing. Since the legal requirements for reconsidering the preliminary investigation according to 58:6a SCJP are set high, the convicted is, with very few exceptions, left alone to make his or her own attempt at reinvestigating the case, but without legal right to get access to all the evidential items in the case. This is a huge problem when the convicted would need to let such items get reanalyzed by forensic or scientific experts, in order to exculpate him- or herself, for instance by using the newest DNA technology, which was not available during the preliminary investigation. Hence, there is a great interest in preserving evidence, and in particular “traces” (spår), after the verdict has become legally binding. In this thesis, I argue that evidence, such as “traces”, should be preserved not only in the interest for clearing unsolved crimes in the future, but also for the possibility of a future petition of post-conviction relief - at least if the crime committed was a serious crime. According to my study, it is a common belief among the police, that preservation of evidence called “traces” is unregulated. I argue that The Archives Act, which regulates the general duty of state agencies to preserve official documents, is applicable also regarding these “traces”. Consequently, I propose that all of these types of evidence should be preserved by the agencies. Alternatively, the convicted should be notified by the appropriate agency that the evidence is going to be destroyed and grant him or her a right to request further preservation within a certain time. Moreover, I conclude that there should be a possibility for the convicted to require post-conviction DNA testing in Sweden as exemplified on the federal level in the US, as well as that the legal requirements for reconsidering the preliminary investigation in 58:6a SCJP should be more lenient. Another solution would be to make it possible for the court, according to 58:6b SCJP, to decide upon that the prosecutor should take investigative measures when it can be assumed that it would lead to the reconsideration of the preliminary investigation. If the proposed legislative changes are not taken, at least it should be possible for the prosecutor to take investigative measures, such as initiating the DNA testing, by using the opportunity to partwise reconsideration of the preliminary investigation.Syftet med denna uppsats är att utreda den oskyldigt dömdes utredningsmöjligheter för att ansöka om resning enligt 58:2 p.4 Rättegångsbalken (RB), med särskilt fokus på bevarande av bevismaterial och begäran om DNA-testning efter lagakraftvunnen dom. Eftersom kravet på förundersökningens återupptagande enligt 58:6a RB ställs högt, är den dömde, med mycket få undantag, lämnad åt att själv vidta utredningsåtgärder, men utan laglig rätt att få tillgång till allt bevismaterial i fallet. Detta är ett stort problem då den dömde skulle behöva få till stånd nya forensiska eller kriminaltekniska analyser på materialet, i syfte att rentvå hen från skuld, genom att exempelvis använda den nyaste DNA-tekniken, som inte fanns tillgänglig vid den ursprungliga förundersökningen. Därför finns det ett starkt intresse av att bevismaterial, främst spår, bevaras efter domen har vunnit laga kraft. I denna uppsats argumenterar jag för att bevismaterial, såsom spår, inte endast bör bevaras med hänsyn till intresset av att klara upp kalla fall, utan även beträffande möjligheten till framtida ansökan om resning - åtminstone om det brott som begicks var ett allvarligt sådant. Enligt min studie är det en vanlig uppfattning bland polisen att bevarandet av bevismaterial, såsom spår, är oreglerat. Jag argumenterar för att arkivlagen, som reglerar den allmänna skyldigheten för statliga myndigheter att bevara allmänna handlingar, även är tillämplig lag avseende spår. Följaktligen föreslår jag att myndigheter bör bevara alla dessa typer av material. Alternativt borde den dömde underrättas av lämplig myndighet att bevismaterialen ska hävas, och ge hen rätt att begära, inom viss tid, att bevismaterialen ska fortsätta att bevaras. Dessutom konstaterar jag att det bör införas en möjlighet för den dömde att begära ny DNA-testning efter lagakraftvunnen dom i Sverige, likt regleringen på federal nivå i USA, samt att kravet på förundersökningens återupptagande enligt 58:6a RB bör sänkas. En annan lösning skulle vara att göra det möjligt för domstolen i enlighet med 58:6b RB att förelägga åklagaren att vidta viss utredningsåtgärd när det kan antas leda till förundersökningens återupptagande. Om inte dessa förändringar sker bör åklagaren åtminstone ha möjlighet att vidta utredningsåtgärder, som att t.ex. initiera ny DNA-testning, genom att utnyttja möjligheten att delvis återuppta förundersökningen.
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Khoory, Haifa. "The feasibility of transferring cells from archived buccal swabs to FTA card for long term and simple storage of forensic samples." University of Western Australia. Centre for Forensic Science, 2008. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2008.0088.
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[Truncated abstract] The collection of buccal cells is common practise in the epidemiological and forensic science. Unlike venipuncture collection of blood; it is a safer, non-invasive method for collection of biological material. The methods by which these cells are collected from the inner cheek of an individual and stored are the key elements in preserving DNA. Typically, forensic samples require long term storage. Samples are commonly collected on cotton swabs and stored moist at low to ultra-low temperatures (less than -20oC). Although this is the method of choice in most forensic facilities, there are drawbacks. The samples are inherently contaminated with microflora within the oral cavity and the moisture allows a plethora of microorganisms to grow. As the time frame that has elapsed from collection to storage increases, there is an exponential increase in bacterial cells. Storage of containers containing swabs coated with cells at temperatures below 20oC is also costly due to requirements for large freezers which are running and monitored over 24 hours. In the pass 10 to 15 years, researchers have focussed on alternative ways to store buccal cells. The FTA card system by Whatman is one such development. The FTA card is unique in that it provides a means for the collection of buccal cells for storage at room temperature. DNA profiling from samples stored in this way for 11 years has been successfully achieved. The filter paper matrix of the FTA card binds and subsequently lyses cells. ... (2) The second component of this thesis describes a study which subjected cells on buccal swabs to various conditions of increased temperature over periods of time to establish if DNA could be amplified. The aim was to mimic exposure to the vigours of field conditions, particularly in the extreme local environments that prevail in the United Arab Emirates. a. Initially, buccal cells stored at -20oC over 360 days were used to mimic standard archiving procedures. The cells were subsequently transferred to FTA cards, amplified and profiled by using ABI AmpFLSTR Identifiler PCR Amplification Kit (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Complete STR profiles were successfully recovered from the archived swabs. In most cases 100% of alleles were recovered, suggesting that it is feasible to transfer DNA from properly archived buccal swabs to FTA cards. b. The second phase involved the storage of fresh swabs that had been artificially aged by using incubation temperatures ranging from 40oC to 100oC. Partial profiles resulted from artificially aged samples, indicating that the prevailing conditions prior to low temperature storage of the swabs plays an important role in ensuring cellular integrity and thus, DNA quality. Results from this study suggest that it is possible for biological samples stored under correct conditions to be transferred from swabs to FTA card. In combination, the two chapters presented in this study show that it is feasible to transfer achieved forensic biology samples from swabs to the FTA card system. However, it is necessary to ensure that the samples are treated in the correct manner so as to minimise contamination from external sources and to maintain the correct environmental state to maintain intact cells and usable DNA.