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Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Environmental forensics'
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Zok, Dorian [Verfasser]. "Analytical Investigations of Understudied Nuclides in Modern Environmental Nuclear Forensics / Dorian Zok." Hannover : Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität, 2021. http://d-nb.info/1238221750/34.
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Conte, Elise R. "APPLICATIONS OF ISOTOPES TO MAGMATIC PROCESSES, ERUPTION AGES, AND NUCLEAR FORENSICS." Miami University / OhioLINK, 2017. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1494441688196002.
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McHugh, Kelly C. "APPLICATIONS OF TRACE ELEMENT AND ISOTOPE GEOCHEMISTRY TO IGNEOUS PETROLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL FORENSICS." Miami University / OhioLINK, 2017. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=miami1494441686890672.
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Ghasemi, Damavandi Hamidreza. "Data analytics, interpretation and machine learning for environmental forensics using peak mapping methods." Diss., University of Iowa, 2016. https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/2083.
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In this work our driving motivation is to develop mathematically robust and computationally efficient algorithms that will help chemists towards their goal of pattern matching. Environmental chemistry today broadly faces difficult computational and interpretational challenges for vast and ever-increasing data repositories. A driving factor behind these challenges are little known intricate relationships between constituent analytes that constitute complex mixtures spanning a range of target and non-target compounds. While the end of goal of different environment applications are diverse, computationally speaking, many data interpretation bottlenecks arise from lack of efficient algorithms and robust mathematical frameworks to identify, cluster and interpret compound peaks. There is a compelling need for compound-cognizant quantitative interpretation that accounts for the full informational range of gas chromatographic (and mass spectrometric) datasets. Traditional target-oriented analysis focus only on the dominant compounds of the chemical mixture, and thus are agnostic of the contribution of unknown non-target analytes. On the other extreme, statistical methods prevalent in chemometric interpretation ignore compound identity altogether and consider only the multivariate data statistics, and thus are agnostic of intrinsic relationships between the well-known target and unknown target analytes. Thus, both schools of thought (target-based or statistical) in current-day chemical data analysis and interpretation fall short of quantifying the complex interaction between major and minor compound peaks in molecular mixtures commonly encountered in environmental toxin studies. Such interesting insights would not be revealed via these standard techniques unless a deeper analysis of these patterns be taken into account in a quantitative mathematical framework that is at once compound-cognizant and comprehensive in its coverage of all peaks, major and minor.
This thesis aims to meet this grand challenge using a combination of signal processing, pattern recognition and data engineering techniques. We focus on petroleum biomarker analysis and polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) congener studies in human breastmilk as our target applications.
We propose a novel approach to chemical data analytics and interpretation that bridges the gap between target-cognizant traditional analysis from environmental chemistry with compound-agnostic computational methods in chemometric data engineering. Specically, we propose computational methods for target-cognizant data analytics that also account for local unknown analytes allied to the established target peaks. The key intuition behind our methods are based on the underlying topography of the gas chromatigraphic landscape, and we extend recent peak mapping methods as well as propose novel peak clustering and peak neighborhood allocation methods to achieve our data analytic aims. Data-driven results based on a multitude of environmental applications are presented.
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Assal, A. A. "Environmental forensics : compund specific isotape analysis of PAH. study of a former tar plant." Thesis, Queen's University Belfast, 2010. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.517078.
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Knight, Andrew William. "Radiochemical analysis of protactinium speciation: applications in nuclear forensics, nuclear energy, and environmental radiochemistry." Diss., University of Iowa, 2016. https://ir.uiowa.edu/etd/2233.
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Protactinium (Pa) is an actinide with chemical properties that are unique among the actinide elements. While the properties of other actinides are to a large extent understood, much of the chemistry of Pa remains a mystery. This thesis aims to illuminate new understanding of Pa chemistry through behavioral analysis using analytical techniques including liquid-liquid extraction (LL); extraction chromatography (ExC); and spectroscopic studies.
Applications of radioanalytical chemistry and Pa: Through the research presented in this dissertation, we have developed a new way to separate uranium (U), thorium (Th), and Pa from complex environmental samples. The approach has been demonstrated for U-series dating of materials by alpha spectrometry. The method can be applied to geochronology, as well as to nuclear-forensic analysis of uranium-containing materials. In studies presented here, samples from a Paleolithic lake (Lake Bonneville, Utah USA) were analyzed for the radioactivity concentration of 230Th, 231Pa, 234U, 235U, and 238U by isotope dilution alpha spectrometry. Radioactivities were used to estimate of the time period of formation of the deposit from which the samples were collected. Ages were determined from the isotopics ratios; i.e., 231Pa/235U (40 ka); and 230Th/238U (39.5 ka) we found to be concordant with radiocarbon-14 dates (37 ka) obtained by collaborators at Brigham Young University. These studies inspired the development of a novel ExC resin to facilitate preparation of highly pure tracer isotope (233Pa) from a neptunium-237 (237Np) source. The material used for this development comprised 1-octanol adsorbed to a semi-porous resin material. The new approach greatly improved the yield and purity of 233Pa used for these chronometric analyses
Developing an understanding of the chemistry of Pa at trace concentrations: The new-improved analytical described above led to the hypothesis that analytical separations approaches could be used to develop a more detailed understanding of Pa chemistry. Toward this goal, experiments were conducted to understand how the extraction of Pa is impacted by solution acidity [H+], anion concentration [A-; Cl-, NO3-], and extractant concentration ([2,6-dimethyl-4-heptanol, DIBC]). A full-factorial experimental design was employed to create a model that would allow for predictions in Pa behavior, as well as describe the nature of the observations. This model generated a multivariate equation that relates the distribution coefficient ([Pa] organic phase/ [Pa] aqueous phase) to each of the parameters ([H+], [A-], and [DIBC]). Further studies expanded to other alcohols (ROH) used as extractants (1-octanol, (2,6)-dimthyl-4-heptanol, and 2-ethyl-hexanol); and the results were analyzed using the slope analysis and comparative extraction studies using the model and compared to other actinide elements (Th, U, Np, americium (Am)) by both LL and ExC systems. These experiments revealed unique chemical behavior of Pa with respect to the other actinides. For example, it was found that Pa was the only actinide element to be extracted into the organic phase under acidic conditions (HCl and HNO3). Slope analysis experiments elucidated the stoichiometric identity of Pa species, with respect to the anion and extractant. Future studies will aim to identify the oxygen stoichiometry and species by X-ray absorption techniques.
Investigations of the organic phase: In the final sections of this thesis, experiments are presented that are intended to determine if aggregation plays a key role in the extraction of Pa in systems containing 1-octanol and 2-ethyl-hexanol. This work is done in the absence of metal ions to control the dynamics of the organic phase, and are analyzed by tensiometry and Karl Fisher titrations with small angle X-ray scattering and molecular dynamic simulations. A key novel finding of these studies in that ROH molecules arrange in nanoscale aggregates that decrease the interfacial tension between the phases and extract a significant amount of water into the aggregates stabilized by a network of H-bonding. These studies lead to the hypothesis for future studies that Pa extraction is likely facilitated by solvation into the organic phase via ROH aggregates.
The sum of the findings and observations of this dissertation provide insight into the chemical nature of Pa: (1) Novel extraction methods to obtain radiochemically pure fractions show that Pa can be efficiently extracted and separated from complex matrices to aid in chronometric analysis for geochronology or nuclear forensics; (2) Statistical modeling to develop a better understanding of the main effects of solvent extraction parameters; (3) Equilibrium analysis to improve our understanding of chemistry of Pa and how it is unique to the actinides; (4) Aggregation analysis to demonstrate a solvent centric understanding of extraction studies, these results lead to future experiments to investigate how organic phase aggregation can influence solvent extraction selectivity.
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Lavelle, Kevin B. "Evaluation of Environmental Concentratorsfor Trace Actinide Measurements." University of Cincinnati / OhioLINK, 2016. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=ucin1479816761576791.
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Aylor, Amy Richmond. "Environmental forensics for characterization of unexploded ordnance in soils at the Dolly Sods Wilderness Area." Morgantown, W. Va. : [West Virginia University Libraries], 2008. https://eidr.wvu.edu/etd/documentdata.eTD?documentid=5882.
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Thesis (M.S.)--West Virginia University, 2008.Title from document title page. Document formatted into pages; contains x, 73 p. : ill. (some col.), col. maps. Includes abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 48-51).
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Purschke, Kirsten [Verfasser], and Torsten [Akademischer Betreuer] Schmidt. "Environmental Forensics of Industrial Wastewater based on Non-Target Screening / Kirsten Purschke ; Betreuer: Torsten Schmidt." Duisburg, 2020. http://d-nb.info/121946788X/34.
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Bell, Stephanie K. "Assessment of silicone polymer composites for the trace extraction of herbicides : a tool for environmental forensics." FIU Digital Commons, 2007. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1482.
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Passive samplers are not only a versatile tool to integrate environmental concentrations of pollutants, but also to avoid the use of live sentinel organisms for environmental monitoring. This study introduced the use of magnetic silicone polymer composites (Fe-PDMS) as passive sampling media to pre-concentrate a wide range of analytes from environmental settings. The composite samplers were assessed for their accumulation properties by performing lab experiments with two model herbicides (Atrazine and Irgarol 1051) and evaluated for their uptake properties from environmental settings (waters and sediments). The Fe-PDMS composites showed good accumulation of herbicides and pesticides from both freshwater and saltwater settings and the accumulation mechanism was positively correlated with the log Kow value of individual analytes. Results from the studies show that these composites could be easily used for a wide number of applications such as monitoring, cleanup, and/or bioaccumulation modeling, and as a non-intrusive and nondestructive monitoring tool for environmental forensic purposes.
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Christensen, Jan H. "Chemometrics as a tool to analyse complex chemical mixtures : environmental forensics and fate of oil spills /." København : National Environmental Research Institute, Ministry of the Environment ; Roskilde University, Department of Life Sciences and Chemistry, 2005. http://hdl.handle.net/1800/1174.
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Gauchotte, Caroline Paule Colette. "Development of an on-line position specific carbon isotope analysis system with application to environmental forensics." Thesis, Queen's University Belfast, 2010. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.690469.
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Gallacher, Christopher. "Environmental forensics of coal tar using two dimensional gas chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GCxGC-TOFMS)." Thesis, University of Strathclyde, 2016. http://digitool.lib.strath.ac.uk:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=27887.
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Coal tars are complex mixtures of inorganic and organic compounds, which are dominated by PAHs and were produced as a by-product of the former manufactured gas industry. Forensic analysis of coal tar samples was carried out using two dimensional gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GCxGC-TOFMS). This thesis first presents the application of existing multivariate statistical models developed using UK tar samples to tar samples from the USA as well as identifying 947 individual compounds present within the tars. This has important implications as this study demonstrated that statistical methods developed using UK tar samples can be successfully applied to non-UK tars. The thesis then presents the application of post extraction derivitisation to a creosote samples allowing for the detection of 255 compounds, the majority of which would not be detected without derivitisation. The analysis also detected 1505 individual compounds within the Creosote and provides the most comprehensive list of compounds detected within Creosote that has been produced. The analysis was also able to suggest the production process for the tar from which the Creosote was distilled. The use of both derivitisation and GCxGC were vital in providing this forensic information. The thesis then presents the analysis of 16 tar samples using GCxGC and post extraction derivitisation and the production of a database of 2373 individual compounds detected within the tar samples. The study showed that 163 individual compounds were present within all tar samples regardless of the production processused. This has important implications as environmental assessment usually focuses on a limited number of compounds, which could be expanded using the database presented within this thesis. Finally the thesis presented a study that analysed a sample of Pintsch Gas tar, which has never previously been analysed using a mass spectrometer and produced a unique dataset.
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Travaly, Sarah Elizabeth. "Laboratory Detection Limits of Potential Human Decomposition Products Under a Variety of Soil Conditions." University of Akron / OhioLINK, 2016. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=akron1469541371.
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Bobak, Deanna M. "Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon Characterization in Otter Creek, Northwest Ohio." University of Toledo / OhioLINK, 2010. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=toledo1271441527.
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Lim, Jia Hui. "The presence of environmental human DNA within forensic vehicles." Thesis, Lim, Jia Hui (2016) The presence of environmental human DNA within forensic vehicles. Masters by Coursework thesis, Murdoch University, 2016. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/35152/.
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DNA profiling is an extremely useful tool in criminal investigations for the identifications of persons of interest or victims. Although initially a tedious process, it had developed to become rapid and automatable with the implementation of PCR and STR kits. STR kits have also become increasingly sensitive, which is useful for the analysis of trace DNA but increases the possibility of detecting low levels of contaminant DNA. This could result in the generation of mixed and/or unrelated profiles which would be difficult to interpret and could negatively affect the investigation outcome. DNA deposition is said to be dependent upon an individual’s shedding ability, although several authors had suggested that there are multiple other contributing factors such as diseases, increased sweating, and secondary transfer of DNA. Secondary transfer occurs when DNA is deposited onto a surface indirectly via vectors. The amount of DNA transferred is shown to be influenced by various characteristics such as the type, porosity, and manner and frequency of contact between the DNA-containing material, the vector(s) and the deposition surface. This literature review aims to assess the potential for contamination of evidence samples by background DNA. DNA contamination could have disastrous impacts on investigations, so it is imperative that measures are taken to ensure that cleaning regimes and standard operating procedures are followed to minimise DNA contamination. A new forensic standard ISO18385 was also produced to reduce the risk of manufacturer-related contamination in consumables and reagents used for DNA analysis.
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Zahedi, Saed. "Virtualization Security Threat Forensic and Environment Safeguarding." Thesis, Linnéuniversitetet, Institutionen för datavetenskap (DV), 2014. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:lnu:diva-32144.
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The advent of virtualization technologies has evolved the IT infrastructure and organizations are migrating to virtual platforms. Virtualization is also the foundation for cloud platform services. Virtualization is known to provide more security into the infrastructure apart from agility and flexibility. However security aspects of virtualization are often overlooked. Various attacks to the virtualization hypervisor and its administration component are desirable for adversaries. The threats to virtualization must be rigorously scrutinized to realize common breaches and knowing what is more attractive for attackers. In this thesis a current state of perimeter and operational threats along with taxonomy of virtualization security threats is provided. The common attacks based on vulnerability database are investigated. A distribution of the virtualization software vulnerabilities, mapped to the taxonomy is visualized. The famous industry best practices and standards are introduced and key features of each one are presented for safeguarding the virtualization environments. A discussion of other possible approaches to investigate the severity of threats based on automatic systems is presented.
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Damaso, Natalie. "Biogeographical Patterns of Soil Microbial Communities: Ecological, Structural, and Functional Diversity and their Application to Soil Provenance." FIU Digital Commons, 2016. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/3006.
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The current ecological hypothesis states that the soil type (e.g., chemical and physical properties) determines which microbes occupy a particular soil and provides the foundation for soil provenance studies. As human profiles are used to determine a match between evidence from a crime scene and a suspect, a soil microbial profile can be used to determine a match between soil found on the suspect’s shoes or clothing to the soil at a crime scene. However, for a robust tool to be applied in forensic application, an understanding of the uncertainty associated with any comparisons and the parameters that can significantly influence variability in profiles needs to be determined. This study attempted to address some of the most obvious uncertainties of soil provenance applications such as spatial variability, temporal variability, and marker selection (i.e., taxa discrimination). Pattern analysis was used to validate the ecological theories driving the soil microbial biogeography. Elucidating soil microbial communities’ spatial and temporal variability is critical to improve our understanding of the factors regulating their structure and function. Microbial profiling and bioinformatics analyses of the soil community provided a rapid method for soil provenance that can be informative, easier to perform, and more cost effective than approaches using traditional physico-chemical data. This study also showed that stable profiles may allow comparison between evidence and a possible crime scene despite the time lapse (4 years) between sample collections, however, this is dependent on the analysis method, site, vegetation, and level of disturbance. Marker selection was also an important consideration for profiling. Even though Fungi look promising for single taxon soil discrimination, the additional markers can help discriminate between a wide variety of soil types. As in human identification, the more DNA markers queried the greater the discrimination power. Lastly, this study illustrated a novel method to query the iron relating genes and ability to design a novel marker that can easily be used to profile the functional diversity of a soil community to enhance soil classification. Overall this research demonstrated the potential and effectiveness of using microbial DNA from soil, not just for comparison, but also for intelligence gathering to pinpoint the geographic origin of the soil.
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Mouton, Francois. "Digital forensic readiness for wireless sensor network environments." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/24955.
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The new and upcoming field of wireless sensor networking is unfortunately still lacking in terms of both digital forensics and security. All communications between different nodes (also known as motes) are sent out in a broadcast fashion. These broadcasts make it quite difficult to capture data packets forensically and, at the same time, retain their integrity and authenticity. The study presents several attacks that can be executed successfully on a wireless sensor network, after which the dissertation delves more deeply into the flooding attack as it is one of the most difficult attacks to address in wireless sensor networks. Furthermore, a set of factors is presented to take into account while attempting to achieve digital forensic readiness in wireless sensor networks. The set of factors is subsequently discussed critically and a model is proposed for implementing digital forensic readiness in a wireless sensor network. The proposed model is next transformed into a working prototype that is able to provide digital forensic readiness to a wireless sensor network. The main contribution of this research is the digital forensic readiness prototype that can be used to add a digital forensics layer to any existing wireless sensor network. The prototype ensures the integrity and authenticity of each of the data packets captured from the existing wireless sensor network by using the number of motes in the network that have seen a data packet to determine its integrity and authenticity in the network. The prototype also works on different types of wireless sensor networks that are in the frequency range of the network on which the prototype is implemented, and does not require any modifications to be made to the existing wireless sensor network. Flooding attacks pose a major problem in wireless sensor networks due to the broadcasting of communication between motes in wireless sensor networks. The prototype is able to address this problem by using a solution proposed in this dissertation to determine a sudden influx of data packets within a wireless sensor network. The prototype is able to detect flooding attacks while they are occurring and can therefore address the flooding attack immediately. Finally, this dissertation critically discusses the advantages of having such a digital forensic readiness system in place in a wireless sensor network environment. CopyrightDissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2012.
Computer Science
unrestricted
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McGregor, Laura. "Environmental forensic investigation of coal tars from former manufactured gas plants." Thesis, University of Strathclyde, 2012. http://oleg.lib.strath.ac.uk:80/R/?func=dbin-jump-full&object_id=18934.
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Former manufactured gas plants (FMGPs) are a ubiquitous source of environmental con- tamination. The process of gas production created a number of by-products, including coal tar and ammoniacal liquor. Coal tar contains a complex mixture of organic and inorganic compounds, many of which are toxic and carcinogenic. It is estimated that over 3000±1000 FMGPs exist in the United Kingdom alone, yet there are few recent publications detailing the analysis of coal tars. The complex composition of coal tar is known to vary due to a number of factors, including production method, temperature and coal type, making the analysis and interpretation of such samples extremely challenging. Environmental forensics is concerned with the source, fate and transport of contaminants. The introduction of recent legislation such as the EU Environmental Liabilities Directive 2004/35/EC, which promotes the "polluters pay" policy, has encouraged the development of accurate and robust scientific methods for the identification of contaminants. Analytical instrumentation is constantly evolving, thus new protocols to trace the origin of contamination must also be developed to utilise these technological advances. Two-dimensional gas chromatography (GCxGC) and compound specific isotope analysis (CSIA) are two exam- ples of advanced analytical instruments which have the potential to aid source identification. GCxGC provides enhanced separation of complex mixtures compared to conventional gas chromatographic techniques, while CSIA allows chemically identical contaminants to be compared based on their isotopic composition. In this study, preliminary research investigated the isotopic composition of coal tars, as this technique is currently a major tool for source apportionment in environmental forensics. However, the results demonstrated .that the similar nature of British coals used for gas production at the investigated sites produced similar isotopic values in the resultant tars, making the technique redundant in this case. Therefore, the potential of GCxGC was investigated for ultra resolution chemical fingerprinting of coal tars. Traditionally, chemical fingerprinting of complex mixtures, such as coal tar, is performed using a tiered approach including rigorous sample preparation steps and analysis by multiple instruments. In this work, a new, single-step analytical procedure was developed for the analysis of coal tars by GCxGC. Automated sample extraction techniques combined with GCxGC analyses were employed to provide detailed chemical fingerprinting in a fast, yet accurate, manner. This research represents a major advance in knowledge of compositional variation within coal tars. The enhanced separation of GCxGC provides vast quantities of chemical data which can be difficult to interpret without statistical methods. A multivariate statistical model was developed to provide process-specific classification of coal tars. The statistical model was validated through use of a blind study, indicating that process-specific apportionment of coal tars was achievable. Based on these results, the application of the single-step procedure for environmental forensics on a commercial basis was evaluated.
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Hendry, Stephen John. "Application of metallic profiling of teeth for environmental and forensic science." Thesis, University of the West of Scotland, 2016. https://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.738485.
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Patterson, Farrah M. "The implications of virtual environments in digital forensic investigations." Master's thesis, University of Central Florida, 2011. http://digital.library.ucf.edu/cdm/ref/collection/ETD/id/4819.
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This research paper discusses the role of virtual environments in digital forensic investigations. With virtual environments becoming more prevalent as an analysis tool in digital forensic investigations, it's becoming more important for digital forensic investigators to understand the limitation and strengths of virtual machines. The study aims to expose limitations within commercial closed source virtual machines and open source virtual machines. The study provides a brief overview of history digital forensic investigations and virtual environments, and concludes with an experiment with four common open and closed source virtual machines; the effects of the virtual machines on the host machine as well as the performance of the virtual machine itself. My findings discovered that while the open source tools provided more control and freedom to the operator, the closed source tools were more stable and consistent in their operation. The significance of these findings can be further researched by applying them in the context of exemplifying reliability of forensic techniques when presented as analysis tool used in litigation.ID: 030646240; System requirements: World Wide Web browser and PDF reader.; Mode of access: World Wide Web.; Thesis (M.S.)--University of Central Florida, 2011.; Includes bibliographical references (p. 46).
M.S.
Masters
Computer Science
Engineering and Computer Science
Digital Forensics; Science/Computing Track
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Stokes, Kathryn Lisa. "Soil-cadaver interactions in a burial environment." University of Western Australia. Faculty of Life and Physical Sciences, 2009. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2009.0065.
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Forensic taphonomy is concerned with investigation of graves and grave sites. The primary aim of forensic taphonomy is development of accurate estimations of postmortem interval (PMI) and/or postburial interval (PBI). Soil has previously been largely ignored, therefore this thesis is designed to investigate changes in decomposition as imparted by the soil. Furthermore the impact of cadaver interment on the surrounding soil may offer prospects for identification of clandestine graves. A series of laboratory controlled decomposition experiments using cadavers (Mus musculus) and cadaver analogues (skeletal muscle tissue (SMT); Sus scrofa, Homo sapiens, Ovis aries and Bos Taurus) were designed to investigate decomposition in burial environments. Sequential destructive harvests were carried out to monitor temporal changes during decomposition. Analyses conducted included; mass loss, microbial activity (CO2 respiration) and soil chemistry (pH, EC and extractable NH4 +, NO3 -, PO4 3- and K+). Several experimental variables were tested; frozen-thawed versus refrigerated SMT, different mammalian sources of SMT, different soil type and contribution of soil versus enteric microbial communities. Mass loss measurements for SMT experiments demonstrated a sigmoidal pattern of mass loss, however, larger cadavers (Mus musculus, 5 weeks) did not. The inhumation of SMT (frozen, unfrozen, different mammalian sources) or cadavers leads to an increase in microbial activity (CO2 respiration) within 24 hours of burial. A peak of microbial activity is attained within a week, followed by a decrease and eventual plateau. The rapid influx in microbial activity is matched by corresponding increases in pH and NH4 + concentration. pH and NH4 + are strongly correlated in soils with acidic basal pH, by comparison highly alkaline soil demonstrated no relationship. NH4 + concentration also appeared to be related directly to NO3 - concentration and cadaver or SMT mass. A decrease in NH4 + corresponds with an increase in NO3 -, however, nitrification was unpredictable. Rapid nitrification was observed in sand systems when SMT was interred, but was not noted when cadavers were interred. By comparison both sandy clay loam and loamy sand soils demonstrated rapid nitrification after inhumation of a cadaver. When cadaver or cadaver analogue mass was larger, so were NH4 + and NO3 - concentrations in systems that experienced nitrification.
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Hjerpe, David, and Henrik Bengtsson. "Digital forensics - Performing virtual primary memory extraction in cloud environments using VMI." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Institutionen för datalogi och datorsystemteknik, 2018. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-16735.
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Infrastructure as a Service and memory forensics are two subjects which have recently gained increasing amounts of attention. Combining these topics poses new challenges when performing forensic investigations. Forensics targeting virtual machines in a cloud environment is problematic since the devices are virtual, and memory forensics are a newer branch of forensics which is hard to perform and is not well documented. It is, however an area of utmost importance since virtual machines may be targets of, or participate in suspicious activity to the same extent as physical machines. Should such activity require an investigation to be conducted, some data which could be used as evidence may only be found in the primary memory. This thesis aims to further examine memory forensics in cloud environments and expand the academic field of these subjects and help cloud hosting organisations. The objective of this thesis was to study if Virtual Machine Introspection is a valid technique to acquire forensic evidence from the virtual primary memory of a virtual machine. Virtual Machine Introspection is a method of monitoring and analysing a guest via the hypervisor. In order to verify whether Virtual Machine Introspection is a valid forensic technique, the first task was to attempt extracting data from the primary memory which had been acquired using Virtual Machine Introspection. Once extracted, the integrity of the data had to be authenticated. This was done by comparing a hash sum of a file located on a guest with a hash sum of the extracted data. The experiment showed that the two hashes were an exact match. Next, the solidity of the extracted data was tested by changing the memory of a guest while acquiring the memory via Virtual Machine Introspection. This showed that the solidity is heavily compromised because memory acquisition process used was too slow. The final task was to compare Virtual Machine Introspection to acquiring the physical memory of the host. By setting up two virtual machines and examining the primary memory, data from both machines was found where as Virtual Machine Introspection only targets one machine, providing an advantage regarding privacy.
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Gustafsson, Kevin, and Emil Sundstedt. "Automated file extraction in a cloud environment for forensic analysis." Thesis, Blekinge Tekniska Högskola, Institutionen för datalogi och datorsystemteknik, 2017. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:bth-14692.
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The possibility to use the snapshot functionality of OpenStack as a method of securing evidence has been examined in this paper. In addition, the possibility of extracting evidence automatically using an existing operation tool has been investigated. The usability of snapshots in a forensic investigation was examined by conducting a series of tests on both snapshots and physical disk images. The results of the tests were then compared to evaluate the usefulness of the snapshot. Automatic extraction of evidence was investigated by implementing a solution using Ansible and evaluating the algorithm based on the existing standard ISO 27037. It was concluded that the snapshots created by OpenStack behaves similar enough to disks to be useful in a forensic investigation. The algorithm proposed to extract evidence automatically seems to not breach the standard.Möjligheten att använda OpenStacks ögonblicks funktion som metod för att säkra bevis har granskats i detta papper. Dessutom har möjligheten att extrahera bevis automatiskt med ett befintligt automatiseringsverktyg undersökts. Användbarheten av ögonblicksbilder i en rättslig utredning undersöktes genom att genomföra en serie tester påbåde ögonblicksbilder och fysiska disk avbilder. Resultaten av testerna jämfördes sedan för att utvärdera användbarheten av ögonblicksbilden. Automatisk utvinning av bevis undersöktes genom att implementera en lösning med Ansible och utvärdera algoritmen baserat påden befintliga standarden ISO 27037. Det drogs slutsatsen att de ögonblicksbilder som skapats av OpenStack beter sig tillräckligt lika en fysisk disk för att avbilderna ska vara användbara vid en råttslig utredning. Den algoritm som föreslås att extrahera bevis automatiskt tycks inte bryta mot standarden.
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Jonah, Tosin Mobolaji. "Selective Sensing of Ions and Ion Pairs of Environmental and Forensic Significance." FIU Digital Commons, 2017. https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/3498.
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Dual-host combinations of cation and anion sensors have unique potential for selective detection of ion pairs, such as NH4NO3, via solvent extraction. Selective sensors for NH4+ and NO3- were synthesized and used together for ion-pair sensing of ammonium nitrate both in organic solvents (using Bu4N+NO3 - and NH4+PF6-) and in extraction of NH4NO3 from water into dichloromethane. A fluorescent sensor for NH4+ based on 1,3,5-triethylbenzene shows remarkable binding and sensing selectivity for NH4+ vs. K+. Fluorescence and 1H-NMR titrations reveal surprising differences in sensing properties and binding constants for the tris-(3,5-dimethyl)pyrazole vs. the tris(3,5-diphenyl)pyrazole. The role of ion pairing and solvation is revealed by X-ray and theoretical DFT studies. We have also demonstrated a unique dual-host extraction-based ion-pair sensing paradigm using Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET), showing selectivity for NH4NO3. The fluorescence emission of the NH4+ sensor tris-(3,5-dimethyl)pyrazole (305-340 nm), is compatible with the excitation wavelength of the dansyl fluorophore of the nitrate sensor 1,3,5-Tris-(5-dimethylamino-1-naphthalenesulfonamido)methyl]-2,4,6-triethylbenzene, thus resulting in FRET emission upon combined use of these two sensors for the NH4NO3 ion pair. Contact of dichloromethane solutions containing the two hosts with aqueous solutions of NH4NO3 (1 x 10-5 M to 1 x 10-4 M ), resulted in FRET fluorescence enhancements at 510 nm, with increasing concentrations of NH4NO3, while NaNO3, KNO3, NaCl and KCl showed only minimal fluorescence responses, under identical conditions. The ability of the tris-pyrazole to bind cations, such as NH4+, was also exploited in a detailed fluorescence and 1H-NMR Ln(III), binding study using tris-pyrazoles with varying substitution patterns. The dependence of fluorescence responses on pyrazole substitution that had been observed for NH4+ was also observed for different Ln(III), indicating the significant role of ion pairing for Ln(III) binding and fluorescence sensing. Likewise, the tris-dansyl nitrate receptor, in its deprotonated form, was also found to be an efficient Hg(II) fluorescent sensor. An X-ray crystal structure showed the ability of the trianionic version of this receptor to bind three Hg(II) atoms, also containing three CH3COO- counteranions. The X-ray crystal structure of the same receptor with HgCl2 gave a 2:1 complexation pattern, with one Hg atom complexed by two bis-deprotonated receptor molecules
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Blid, Emma, and Patrick Massler. "Den IT-forensiska utvinningen i molnet : En kartläggning över den IT-forensiska utvinningen i samband med molntjänster samt vilka möjligheter och svårigheter den möter." Thesis, Högskolan i Halmstad, Akademin för informationsteknologi, 2017. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:hh:diva-34872.
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Det blir allt vanligare att spara data online, i stället för på fysiska lagringsmedium. Detta bringar många möjligheter för dig som användare, men orsakar också nya problem framför allt inom utredningsarbetet. Problemen i kombinationen IT-forensik och molntjänster kan framför allt delas upp i två kategorier, vilka är juridiska respektive tekniska problem. De juridiska problemen berör främst att servern som lagrar data och ägaren till denna ofta befinner sig i en annan nation än där det misstänkta brottet utreds. De flesta juridiska problem kan tyckas enkla att lösa genom lagändringar, men är mer omfattande än så då både de konsekvenser det kan ha för molnleverantörerna, liksom de fördelar det kan ha för rättsväsendet, måste tas hänsyn till och noga övervägas. De tekniska problemen finns det ofta redan lösningar på. Många av dessa kan dock inte anses vara reella då krävd storlek på lagringsytan, och kostnaderna därtill, inte är i proportion av vad som skulle kunna uppnås. De flesta tekniska lösningar ger även nya problem i form av etiska dilemman då de kräver utökad lagring av personlig information. Att spara information och eventuellt behöva utreda information kopplat till en person som inte är misstänkt gör intrång på den personliga integriteten. Molnet har dock också möjligheter där den främsta för IT-forensiken är vad som kallas Digital Forensics as a Service. Detta innebär att molnets resurser nyttjas för att lösa resurstunga problem som hade varit betydligt mer tidskrävande att genomföra lokalt, likaså att möjligheterna för samarbeten och specialkompetens ökar, i syfte att underlätta och effektivera det IT-forensiska arbetet.It is becoming more common to save data online, rather than on physical storage media. This brings many opportunities for you as a user, but also causes new problems, especially within the crime investigations. The problems in the combination of digital forensics and cloud services can be divided into two main categories, which are legal issues and technical issues. The legal issues primarily concern that the server that stores data and the owner of the server is typically based in a different nation than where the suspected crime is investigated. Most legal issues may seem easy to solve through law changes, but are more extensive than that, as both the consequences it may have for the cloud suppliers, as well as the benefits it may have for the justice system, must be taken into consideration. The technical issues often have solutions. However, many of these cannot be considered as realistic since the size of the required storage space, and the costs caused by it, are not proportional to what could be achieved. Most technical solutions also give rise to new issues in the form of ethical dilemmas as they require enhanced storage of personal information. To save more information and to possibly need to investigate information associated with a person who is not suspected of committing the crime intrudes the personal integrity. The cloud, however, also brings opportunities where the foremost for digital forensics is what is called Digital Forensics as a Service. This means that the cloud’s resources are utilised to solve resource related problems that had been significantly more time consuming to implement locally, as well as the opportunities for cooperation and expertise increase, in order to facilitate and enhance IT-forensic work.
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Cooper, Amelia. "Working in a demanding environment : employee wellbeing in secure forensic settings." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/25501.
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Introduction: Care professionals suffering with poor wellbeing is a phenomenon that has been found to have a damaging effect upon individual employees, service users and organisations. Employees working in forensic settings are believed to be at increased risk of damaged wellbeing due to the unique demands of their working environment, including exposure to violence and aggression. This issue was addressed in two ways. Firstly, a systematic review of the literature on the effectiveness of person-centred interventions to improve the wellbeing of forensic professionals was prepared. Following this, an empirical study was completed which examined the ability of demands related to violence and aggression, and resources of two types (cognitive and contextual behavioural) to predict the wellbeing of employees in a high secure forensic mental health (FMH) hospital. Method: For the systematic review, relevant databases were systematically searched and 7 papers that met the inclusion criteria were identified. The included studies were quality assessed to identify strengths and weaknesses. For the empirical study, 142 employees at a high secure FMH hospital completed self-report questionnaires which examined their wellbeing, perceptions of the prevalence of aggression, beliefs about safety, attitudes towards aggression, and psychological flexibility. Results: The reviewed studies included psychological, educational and mixed type interventions. Evidence for the effectiveness of interventions was mixed, and problems with methodological quality common. The results of the empirical paper suggested that exposure to violence and aggression was not a good predictor of wellbeing. However, the beliefs staff held about safety and staff‘s level of psychological flexibility were predictive of wellbeing. Conclusions: The review concluded that the existing evidence for the effectiveness of person-centred wellbeing interventions for forensic professionals was generally of poor quality, and inadequate to provide firm recommendations. Further research to assess the effectiveness of interventions and the underlying mechanisms of wellbeing change in forensic settings was advised. The empirical paper concluded that job demands related to staff‘s cognitive appraisal of safety, and the contextual behavioural resource, psychological flexibility, were predictive of staff wellbeing. It was recommended that future interventions to improve the wellbeing of forensic professionals consider the psychological processes staff encounter in the workplace, with a particular focus on contextual behavioural resources, which have an existing evidence base in broader occupational fields. Further research using contextual behavioural interventions within forensic settings is recommended in order to develop the limited research on forensic professionals‘ workplace wellbeing.
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Stuettgen, Johannes [Verfasser], and Felix [Akademischer Betreuer] Freiling. "On the Viability of Memory Forensics in Compromised Environments / Johannes Stuettgen. Gutachter: Felix Freiling." Erlangen : Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 2015. http://d-nb.info/1076120490/34.
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Lang, Jennifer M. "The micro-ecology of stream biofilm dynamics: environmental drivers, successional processes, and forensic applications." University of Dayton / OhioLINK, 2015. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=dayton1438084044.
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Carr, Michelle. "The process of adjustment and coping for women in secure forensic environments." Thesis, University of Nottingham, 2013. http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/13377/.
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Clinicians working with women in forensic secure environments will be acutely aware of the diverse risks, complex treatment needs and unique responsivity issues found in this multifaceted marginal group. Women make up 5% of the prison population and approx 20% of the secure forensic psychiatric population (approx 4,500 and 1,085 women respectively). What animates the studies of women is not so much numbers of offenders but the particular circumstances of the women and girls “behind” the numbers. There is a common perception that women make up such a small number of the criminal justice service (CJS) population that devising gender sensitive environments and interventions is unnecessary. However studies of patients detained in high and medium security have identified significant gender differences. Women are more likely to commit minor offenses, be diagnosed with a personality disorder, present with self injurious behavior and have suffered childhood victimization. Thus, women and girls who are caught up in the justice system enter it as a result of circumstances distinctly different from those of men. Up until recently the needs of women were inadequately met in services centered on the needs of men and it is only relatively recently that the need to address these glaring differences has been thrashed out in the public arena. Following a number of high profile reviews and reports mixed sex wards have been become a exceptional, strip searches of women in prison have been abolished and large numbers of women have been reviewed and stepped down to lower levels of security. A less well researched area of women’s secure care centers on the profound impact of adjusting to a new environment which involves coping with severance of social support networks.
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Homem, Irvin. "Towards Automation in Digital Investigations : Seeking Efficiency in Digital Forensics in Mobile and Cloud Environments." Licentiate thesis, Stockholms universitet, Institutionen för data- och systemvetenskap, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:su:diva-130742.
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Cybercrime and related malicious activity in our increasingly digital world has become more prevalent and sophisticated, evading traditional security mechanisms. Digital forensics has been proposed to help investigate, understand and eventually mitigate such attacks. The practice of digital forensics, however, is still fraught with various challenges. Some of the most prominent of these challenges include the increasing amounts of data and the diversity of digital evidence sources appearing in digital investigations. Mobile devices and cloud infrastructures are an interesting specimen, as they inherently exhibit these challenging circumstances and are becoming more prevalent in digital investigations today. Additionally they embody further characteristics such as large volumes of data from multiple sources, dynamic sharing of resources, limited individual device capabilities and the presence of sensitive data. These combined set of circumstances make digital investigations in mobile and cloud environments particularly challenging. This is not aided by the fact that digital forensics today still involves manual, time consuming tasks within the processes of identifying evidence, performing evidence acquisition and correlating multiple diverse sources of evidence in the analysis phase. Furthermore, industry standard tools developed are largely evidence-oriented, have limited support for evidence integration and only automate certain precursory tasks, such as indexing and text searching. In this study, efficiency, in the form of reducing the time and human labour effort expended, is sought after in digital investigations in highly networked environments through the automation of certain activities in the digital forensic process. To this end requirements are outlined and an architecture designed for an automated system that performs digital forensics in highly networked mobile and cloud environments. Part of the remote evidence acquisition activity of this architecture is built and tested on several mobile devices in terms of speed and reliability. A method for integrating multiple diverse evidence sources in an automated manner, supporting correlation and automated reasoning is developed and tested. Finally the proposed architecture is reviewed and enhancements proposed in order to further automate the architecture by introducing decentralization particularly within the storage and processing functionality. This decentralization also improves machine to machine communication supporting several digital investigation processes enabled by the architecture through harnessing the properties of various peer-to-peer overlays. Remote evidence acquisition helps to improve the efficiency (time and effort involved) in digital investigations by removing the need for proximity to the evidence. Experiments show that a single TCP connection client-server paradigm does not offer the required scalability and reliability for remote evidence acquisition and that a multi-TCP connection paradigm is required. The automated integration, correlation and reasoning on multiple diverse evidence sources demonstrated in the experiments improves speed and reduces the human effort needed in the analysis phase by removing the need for time-consuming manual correlation. Finally, informed by published scientific literature, the proposed enhancements for further decentralizing the Live Evidence Information Aggregator (LEIA) architecture offer a platform for increased machine-to-machine communication thereby enabling automation and reducing the need for manual human intervention.
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Al-Ali, Ahmed Kamil Hasan. "Forensic speaker recognition under adverse conditions." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2019. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/130783/1/Ahmed%20Kamil%20Hasan_Al-Ali_Thesis.pdf.
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The performance of forensic speaker recognition systems degrades significantly in the presence of environmental noise and reverberant conditions. This research developed new techniques to improve forensic speaker recognition performance under these conditions using fusion feature extraction techniques and speech enhancement based on the independent component analysis algorithm. A range of forensic speaker recognition applications will benefit from the research outcomes including criminal investigations and law enforcement agencies.
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Follis, Shawna L. "Dental fluctuating asymmetry as a measure of environmental stress in Nasca." Thesis, Purdue University, 2015. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=1571983.
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This thesis evaluates how environmental stressors affected three groups (Nasca, Loro, and Chakipampa) that lived in Nasca during the Early Intermediate Period (ca. A.D. 1-750) and the Middle Horizon (ca. A.D. 750-1000). Using fluctuating asymmetry analysis as a proxy for developmental instability, biological evidence is assessed for differential stress levels incurred by groups occupying the Peruvian south coast. This study found high levels of stress in the Middle Horizon, supporting the hypothesis that populations living in Nasca were unfavorably affected by Wari colonizers. However, stress was found to be highest among the Chakipampa. This is attributed to Wari imperialistic occupation and extraction of resources. Conversely, the contemporaneous Loro affiliated population, who presumably avoided Wari influence, experienced the lowest levels of stress among the samples. This research reveals a large distinction between the effects of environmental stressors on the two Middle Horizon groups.
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Nazir, Muhammad Shahid. "DNA persistence and preservation following environmental insult." Thesis, University of Central Lancashire, 2012. http://clok.uclan.ac.uk/6744/.
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This research was conducted to provide empirical evidence to supplement advice available to the forensic community for the collection of muscle tissue for forensic analysis. This type of collection is normally carried out to determine the identity of individuals following mass disasters, such as plane crashes or natural disasters. DNA degradation was assessed in two model organisms, pig and rabbit (with human DNA as a control), over various time points. Rabbit recombination activating gene (RAG 1) was aligned to identify conserved regions in pig, rabbit and human. Primers were designed and optimised to create a 4-plex PCR multiplex that can amplify 70 bp, 194 bp, 305 bp and 384 bp in three species. The 4-plex multiplex was found to work efficiently in all three species down to 0.3 ng of DNA template. The multiplex was used to assess whether DNA degradation can be predicted by accumulated degree-days (ADD), which provides a measure of both time and temperature. A series of field studies were performed to assess DNA persistence in pig and rabbit soft muscle tissues using a combination of whole animals, suspended muscle tissues (insect activity free) and muscle fragments. Field studies were carried out in: August-September 2009; February-May 2010; May-June 2010; June-July 2010 and September-November 2010. Soft muscle tissue samples were collected at different ADD. 4-plex multiplex results showed that DNA was more persistent in pig tissues compared to rabbit tissues. In the September 2010 experiments, full multiplex amplification was obtained from rabbit until 137 ADD (whole carcases) and 210 ADD (body fragments and suspended tissues), while in the August 2009 experiments, full multiplex amplification was obtained until 112 ADD (whole carcases and body fragments) and until 141 ADD (suspended tissues). In the June 2010 experiments, full multiplex amplification was possible until 64 ADD. Pig whole carcases which were placed in the field in February 2010, showed multiplex amplification until day 90 (603 ADD), followed by September 2010 (until day 44 (490 ADD)) and May 2010 (until day 27 (338 ADD)). During the September 2010 project, body fragments produced full amplification until muscles were collected (342 ADD), while in case of whole carcases and suspended tissues; the amplification was possible until 490 ADD. There was complete failure of amplification of 305 bp and 384 bp in pig whole carcases after 342 ADD, while in suspended tissues, the amplification of 305 bp and 384 bp was possible until 420 ADD. The statistical analysis showed that amplification success of larger amplicons (194 bp, 305 bp and 384 bp) reduces with increase in ADD in pig and rabbit whole carcases, body fragments and suspended tissues while 70 bp was more persistence. The results showed that there was no significant difference in DNA persistence between whole carcases verses suspended tissues (Z=0.57, p>0.05) and whole carcases verses body fragments (Z=1.71, p>0.05), There was however a significant difference (Z=2.31, p<0.05) in DNA persistence in suspended tissues and body fragments with increase in ADD. The results from field experiments suggested that muscle tissues, if available, should be collected for DNA profiling, since even if degraded, a profile can be obtained. The results also suggested that the isolation of tissues from insect activity as quickly as possible (even if immediate storage is not possible) may be beneficial for DNA persistence. Seasonal variation in DNA persistence was observed due to maggot mass growth which increases carcase decomposition and ultimately effect on DNA persistence. Controlled incubation experiments were also performed at 27 °C, 37 °C and 47 °C until 21 days to assess DNA persistence, as these temperatures were not available under field conditions. The results showed that the amplification of 70 bp was more persistent compared to larger amplicons (194 bp, 305 bp and 384 bp). The drop-out in amplification of larger amplicons occurred more rapidly in samples incubated under laboratory conditions compared to the field samples. The statistical analysis showed species, ADD and temperature have strong effect (p<0.05) on DNA persistence under controlled conditions. The appearance of 70 bp amplicons in all samples collected from field and in most samples from controlled incubation experiments suggested that soft muscle tissues exposed to different environments can be used to perform SNP analysis. The full 4-plex multiplex amplification obtained from rabbit and pig preserved and dehydrated samples suggested that 96% ethanol, cell lysis solution (with and without 1% sodium azide) and dehydration can be used to preserve fresh and partially decomposed soft muscle tissues at room temperature for one year. The drop-out in amplification of larger amplicons in tissues preserved in 10% buffered formalin suggested that formalin was not suitable for long term storage. This system should therefore be considered as an additional method during Disaster victim identification (DVI) work to preserve fresh and partially decomposed samples. This study also suggested that the developed multiplex (4-plex) can be used to assess DNA persistence in human decomposing bodies and in experimental studies.
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Koch, Sandra. "The detection of sharp force, blunt force and gunshot trauma on whole pigs recovered from a fire environment." Thesis, Boston University, 2012. https://hdl.handle.net/2144/12455.
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Thesis (M.S.)--Boston UniversityThe ability to recognize and identify skeletal material is a fundamental skill in forensic and physical anthropology. Understanding the process that remains have undergone when they have been exposed to a fire environment necessitates further study and specialization as the basic structure of a bone may be altered from the microscopic level to the overall morphology. Analysis of burnt bone goes beyond understanding how the normal taphonomic processes may affect skeletal remains to the specifics of heat and fire related changes. Additionally, the study of how heat or fire alteration affects trauma determinations can be important for determining the forensic significance of a case. The procedures of a fire investigation play a very important role in the recognition, preservation and analysis of skeletal remains especially considering site recovery techniques and perimortem trauma interpretation determination. This study utilized whole pigs to document changes to trauma from exposure to a compartment fire. The results were compared to previous studies done on individual skeletal elements to show that trauma was still recognizable and often protected in the postcranial body.
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Jacob, Jean Daniel. "Fear and power in forensic psychiatry: Nurse-patient interactions in a secure environment." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/32599.
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This research project was situated at the crossroads of two distinct disciplinary fields: nursing and criminology. It sought not only to situate nursing practice in an extreme environment, but also to explore a professional practice in a context where the probability of nurses becoming victims of interpersonal violence is considered to be high, and where fear becomes a perceptible variable that shapes nurse-patient interactions. The goal was to describe and comprehend how fear as a dynamic process influences nursing interactions with patients. This understanding of the relationship between nurses and patients required that fear, the central concept in this project, be examined within the context of the total institution where nurses are both objects and subjects of power. To accomplish this, a qualitative design, which incorporates explorative and descriptive attributes, was thought to be an appropriate choice for this research project. Given the embryonic state of research regarding fear in forensic psychiatric nursing, and given the nature of the research question, grounded theory was considered to be the research method of choice for this project. Once the methodological groundwork was completed, introduction into the research setting permitted the direct observation of nursing routines as well as the completion of eighteen (18) semi-structured interviews. In keeping with an inductive methodological framework, the analysis of the data produced four mutually exclusive categories: 1.) Context, 2.) Nursing Care, 3.) Fear, and 4.) Othering. The fourth category (Othering) that emerged from the data analysis is the core category, because it is the site of a basic social process, and represents the site where all other categories converge. In brief, the results from this research indicate that the environment in which nurses practice is extremely constraining. Within this highly regimented context, nurses are socialized to incorporate representations of the patient population as being potentially dangerous, and, as a result, distance themselves from idealistic conceptions of care. In effect, the heightened awareness and suspicion that a few patients may evoke creates an environment in which trust is difficult to develop. Moreover, the research results emphasize the implication of fear in nurse-patient interactions and particularly how fear reinforces nurses' need to create a safe environment in order to practice. A constant negotiation between space, bodies and security takes place where nurses are forced to scrutinize their actions (self-discipline) in order to avoid becoming a victim of violence. As a result, security is a factor that needs to be present in order for care to be provided. If the environment is considered to be unsafe, then interventions to secure the space are inevitable. In parallel, participants also described how being able to identify with patients enabled positive (read ''therapeutic'') interventions to take place. Casting the patient in the role of the other (sick and/or vulnerable) enabled the nurse to create a rapport with the patient and to use the relationship in a transformative way (self-governance). However, exposure to the patient's criminal history, as well as the inability to rationalize the patient's behaviours within a sickness model, fostered a negative differentiation process wherein nurse-patient interactions became difficult. Along these lines, demonstrating "potential" was also described as an essential motivator for nurses to invest themselves in therapeutic relationships. The tension generated by (a)potential individuals disrupts the normal nursing process, because nurses experience difficulty in finding meaning in nursing care. Finally, participants also highlighted the presence of gender dynamics and social norms that implicitly and explicitly governed work divisions and the presentation of the self in the forensic psychiatric units. Incorporating the masculine standards (being fearless) was seen as a socially desirable attribute. Overall, this research project suggests that the need for safety (both at the individual and collective levels) will always cast a dark shadow over the ideals of care. When nurses feel threatened, security will take precedent over care.
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Hogan, Derek K. Parsons Mikeal Carl. "Forensic speeches in Acts 22-26 in their literary environment : a rhetorical study /." Waco, Tex. : Baylor University, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/2104/4848.
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Montali, Laura <1994>. "Smartphone-based analytical devices with optical detection for on-site biosensing: environmental, food and forensic applications." Doctoral thesis, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna, 2022. http://amsdottorato.unibo.it/10021/1/TESI_LAURA_MONTALI_SUBMISSION_20_01_22.pdf.
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There has been an increasing demand for fast and easy monitoring technologies designed to respond to different analytes. The standard analytical techniques offer accurate and precise results; however, they require clean samples, sophisticated equipment and skilled personnel. For these reasons, they are not suitable for on site, real-time, cost-effective routine monitoring. Biosensors are analytical devices integrating a biological recognition element and a transducer element able to convert the biological response into an easily measurable analytical signal. These tools can easily quantify an analyte or a class of analytes of interest even in a complex matrix, like clinical or environmental samples, thanks to the specificity of the biological components and can be easily implemented in portable devices. The activity carried out during my PhD was mainly focused on the development of different portable paper-based biosensors for multianalyte detection and their implementation into portable analytical devices for point-of-care and point-of-need applications. In particular, enzymes and cells (bacteria and mammalian cell) have been exploited as biorecognition elements, in some cases even by coupling different elements in the same biosensor to increase its robustness. The final goal of biosensors developed was the application in the environmental and forensic fields, since the target analytes are organophosphorus pesticides, heavy metals and molecules with androgenic activity, including new drugs or endocrine disrupting chemicals. Moreover, different optical detection principles (chemiluminescence, bioluminescence, colorimetry) have been exploited and coupled to create an orthogonal detection, which provides more accurate results. Different portable detectors, such as coupled-charged device, smartphone cameras and silicon photomultiplier, and also benchtop laboratory instruments have been used to validate and support the developed biosensors. Several paper-based platforms have been designed and implemented with adaptors and devices fabricated using a dual-extrusion 3D printer to better adapt to the type of assay, reagents, samples and detection method.
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Bolton, Shawna N. "Forensic taphonomy : investigating the post mortem biochemical properties of cartilage and fungal succession as potential forensic tools." Thesis, University of Wolverhampton, 2015. http://hdl.handle.net/2436/579577.
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Post mortem interval (PMI – the time elapsed since death and discovery) is important to medicolegal investigations. It helps to construct crucial time lines and assists with the identification of unknown persons by inclusion or exclusion of a suspect’s known movements. Accurate methodologies for establishing PMI are limited to about 48-hours. Such methods involve use of increasing levels of potassium in vitreous humour, and algor mortis. This study is two-fold. Firstly, it explores the biomolecular changes in degrading porcine cartilage buried in soil environments and its potential to determine PMI in the crucial two days to two months period. Trotters were interred in a number of graves at two distinct locations exhibiting dissimilar soil environments. Weekly disinterments (for 6 weeks) resulted in dissection for cartilage samples which were processed for protein immunoblot analyses and cell vitality assays. Results demonstrate that aggrecan, a major structural proteoglycan, produces high (230kDa) and low (38kDa) molecular weight cross-reactive polypeptides (CRPs) within cartilage extracellular matrix. The 230kDa CRP degrades in a reproducible manner irrespective of the different soil environments utilised. As PMI increases, aggrecan diminishes and degrades forming heterogeneous subpopulations with time. Immunodetection of aggrecan ceases when joint exposure to the soil environment occurs. At this time, aggrecan is metabolised by soil microbes. The molecular breakdown of cartilage proteoglycans has potential for use as a reliable indicator of PMI, irrespective of differing soil environments, beyond the 48-hours period. Likewise, vitality assays also demonstrated viable chondrocytes for as long as 35 PM days. The second component of this study examined the fungal activity associated with trotters buried below ground. Results indicate that fungal growth was considerably influenced by soil chemistry and changes in the environment. Fungal colonisation did not demonstrate temporal patterns of succession. The results of this study indicate that cartilage has the potential to prolong PMI determination well beyond the current 48- and 100-hour limitations posed by various other soft tissue methods. Moreover, the long-term post mortem viability of chondrocytes presents an opportunity to explore DNA extraction from these cells for the purpose of establishing a positive identification for unidentified remains. On the contrary, the growth and colonisation patterns of post putrefactive fungi in relation to decomposing porcine trotters proved to be futile for estimating PMI. Therefore, fungi may not be a suitable candidate for evaluating PMI during the early phase fungal activity.
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Illy, Valeureux Destin Toukanogo. "Application de la forensique environnementale à la discrimination de sources de pollution en nappe." Electronic Thesis or Diss., Bordeaux 3, 2021. http://www.theses.fr/2021BOR30027.
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A l’instar des pays ayant un long passé industriel, les sols et les eaux souterraines en France ont été fortement contaminés par des composés polluants. A proximité de sites industriels, les contaminants détectés dans les eaux peuvent provenir de plusieurs sources rendant l’identification de celles-ci nécessaire à l’évaluation de la contamination et à la détermination des responsabilités afin de gérer la pollution.Cependant, lorsque l’aquifère contaminé a une structure géologique très hétérogène, il est pratiquement impossible de faire une modélisation précise des écoulements souterrains. Par conséquent, il est également impossible d’établir de façon précise la composition moyenne d’un panache de contaminants émis depuis une zone source à partir des seules données de concentrations et des écoulements souterrains. À cet effet, des approches pluridisciplinaires sont nécessaires pour une meilleure caractérisation de l’extension, l’âge et l’origine d’une contamination en milieu hétérogène. Ces approches combinent des informations historiques, des mesures de concentrations, de ratios isotopiques stables des contaminants et des données hydrogéologiques, le tout analysé à l’aide de différents outils mathématiques. De telles approches fournissent les éléments primordiaux tant pour la détermination du risque que pour les éventuels litiges juridiques relatifs à la contamination.Sur deux sites industriels de l’entreprise qui cofinance les travaux de recherche, une contamination très faible (en dessous des normes de potabilité) en Composés Organiques Halogénés Volatils (COHV) est régulièrement détectée sur des captages d’eau potable et industrielle en aval des sites. Sur chacun de ces sites, plusieurs activités passées ou en cours coexistent dans le bassin d’alimentation des captages et peuvent donner lieu à la même contamination. Les aquifères concernés sont crayeux avec une structure très hétérogène incluant par endroit des fissures. De plus, les origines précises des sources de pollution sont inconnues et ces sources peuvent être multiples sur le site industriel et à l’extérieur. Ainsi, l’objectif de la thèse est d’utiliser les méthodes pluridisciplinaires précédemment mentionnées pour déterminer la proportion des eaux provenant de chacune des sources potentiellesLike countries with a long industrial past, soils and groundwater in France have been heavily contaminated by polluting compounds. On industrial sites, contaminants detected in water can come from several sources making the identification necessary for the assessment of contamination and the establishment of responsibilities for the management of pollution.However, when the contaminated aquifer has a very heterogeneous geological structure, it is impossible to accurately model underground flows and contaminant transport. As a result, it will also be impossible to precisely establish the average composition of a plume of contaminants emitted from a source area from the concentration data and groundwater flows alone. To this end, multidisciplinary approaches are necessary for a better characterization of the extent, age, and origin of contamination in a heterogeneous environment. These approaches combine historical information, measurements of concentrations, stable isotope ratios of contaminants and hydrogeological data, all analyzed using mathematical modeling tools. Such approaches provide the essential elements both for the determination of the risk and for possible legal disputes relating to the contamination.On two industrial sites of the company which co-finances the present research work, very low contamination of chlorinated solvents is regularly detected on drinking and industrial water catchments downstream of the sites. On each of these sites, several past or current activities coexist in the catchment supply basin and can give rise to the same contamination. The concerned aquifers are chalky with a very heterogeneous structure including in places cracks. In addition, the precise origins of the sources of pollution are unknown. Thus, the objective of the thesis is to use the multidisciplinary methods mentioned above to determine the proportion of water coming from each of the potential sources
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Harries, Megan Elizabeth. "Vapor-liquid Equilibria Pertaining to the Study of Alternative Fuels and the Forensic Analysis of Chemical Evidence." Thesis, University of Colorado at Boulder, 2018. http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10843874.
Full textAbstract:
Measurement of the vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) of fluid mixtures with many components presents a challenge. Data describing such mixtures, like fuels, are important for the development of alternative energy sources and to support forensic science, but there is a lack of suitable instrumentation to provide data with reasonable uncertainty for mixtures with many components. In this thesis, three different techniques for fluid characterization are explored: the advanced distillation curve (ADC), the advanced distillation curve with reflux (ADCR), and PLOT-cryoadsorption. Two pyrolysis fuels similar to gasoline and diesel fuel made from polypropylene were studied with respect to volatility, composition, and energy content using the advanced distillation curve. The diesel fuel demonstrated volatility very similar to previously measured diesel fuels. The gasoline was less volatile than petroleum-derived counterparts and did not meet specifications.
Two pyrolysis crude oils made from ponderosa pine and dairy manure were assessed using the ADC coupled to an approach for characterizing fluids with multiple, immiscible liquid phases. Both oils contained high water levels and would require further refinement before use. The organic phases of each oil contained components indicative of the feedstock used.
A modification of the ADC method, the advanced distillation curve with reflux, was introduced as an approach to measuring the VLE of fluids with many components. The ADCR additionally approximates the weathering of an ignitable liquid that occurs during an arson fire and measures VLE across a range of weathered conditions. The method was demonstrated using two simple mixtures. The measurements agreed well with models, indicating that ADCR is a suitable VLE metrology.
Vapor-liquid equilibrium data are crucial for interpreting the results of headspace characterization used often in forensic science. One headspace method, portable PLOT-cryoadsorption, was tested in a series of experiments in the laboratory and then deployed for the first time in a field environment that simulated a cargo container. The technology was found to be rapid and sensitive to a variety of compounds of interest to forensic science. Each of the three techniques described in this thesis contribute valuable property data for multicomponent mixtures, towards the development of high-quality predictive models.
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Fu, Hanzhuo. "Development of Advanced Capillary Electrophoresis Techniques with UV and Mass Spectrometry Detection for Forensic, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Applications." FIU Digital Commons, 2014. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1531.
Full textAbstract:
Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a modern analytical technique, which is electrokinetic separation generated by high voltage and taken place inside the small capillaries. In this dissertation, several advanced capillary electrophoresis methods are presented using different approaches of CE and UV and mass spectrometry are utilized as the detection methods.
Capillary electrochromatography (CEC), as one of the CE modes, is a recent developed technique which is a hybrid of capillary electrophoresis and high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Capillary electrochromatography exhibits advantages of both techniques. In Chapter 2, monolithic capillary column are fabricated using in situ photoinitiation polymerization method. The column was then applied for the separation of six antidepressant compounds.
Meanwhile, a simple chiral separation method is developed and presented in Chapter 3. Beta cycodextrin was utilized to achieve the goal of chiral separation. Not only twelve cathinone analytes were separated, but also isomers of several analytes were enantiomerically separated. To better understand the molecular information on the analytes, the TOF-MS system was coupled with the CE. A sheath liquid and a partial filling technique (PFT) were employed to reduce the contamination of MS ionization source. Accurate molecular information was obtained.
It is necessary to propose, develop, and optimize new techniques that are suitable for trace-level analysis of samples in forensic, pharmaceutical, and environmental applications. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) was selected for this task, as it requires lower amounts of samples, it simplifies sample preparation, and it has the flexibility to perform separations of neutral and charged molecules as well as enantiomers.
Overall, the study demonstrates the versatility of capillary electrophoresis methods in forensic, pharmaceutical, and environmental applications.
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O'Brien, R. Christopher. "Forensic animal necrophagy in the South-West of Western Australia : species, feeding patterns and taphonomic effects." University of Western Australia. School of Anatomy and Human Biology, 2008. http://theses.library.uwa.edu.au/adt-WU2008.0195.
Full textAbstract:
[Truncated abstract] One of the standard ways of assessing time since death is from the stages of decomposition of the body. It is well known that the rate of decomposition is affected by environmental factors such as temperature and humidity. Another factor that can affect decompositional rates is the presence of breaches in the protective barrier of the skin, whether arising from antemortem injury or postmortem damage, including that occurring from animal necrophagy. Scavengers have the potential to affect decomposition by breaching the skin allowing access to associated insect material, feeding on the maggot masses, or by consumption of the carcass itself. Each locality will have its own set of features determining the rate of decomposition of the body, and variation may occur within localities based on the seasons. Such variation implies the need for local calibration of time since death against degree of decomposition and to establish the magnitude of interseasonal variation. When the localities are outdoors, the influence of potential scavengers, and the factors affecting their activity need also to be taken into account. This study investigates the interaction of environmental factors and animal scavenging on the rate of decomposition of pig (Sus scrofa) carcasses at four south-west Western Australia sites; Jandakot, Shenton Park, Perup Forest, and Watheroo National Park. Jandakot and Shenton Park are both close to the Perth metropolitan area and the western coast while Perup Forest is southern and inland and Watheroo is northern and inland. ... The most common insectivore feeding in relation to the carcasses was the Willie Wagtail (Rhipidura leucophrys) which was associated with the carcasses in all seasons and all locations except for Perup Forest. The breeding cycle appeared to have a marked influence on the intensity of scavenging by several species. The effect of season on decompositional rates was greatly reduced in carcasses that were exposed to scavenging. It took no additional time for carcasses to achieve skeletonization in winter than in the other seasons in the presence of scavenging. Scavenging had no significant impact on the rate of breakdown of carcasses in summer, when decompositional rates were greatest and scavenging at a minimum. v In Western Australia, it is not uncommon for bodies to remain undiscovered in bush environments for lengthy periods of time due to the low human population density. This study shows conclusively that it is not sufficient simply to consider the accumulated degree day (ADD) when estimating time since death by the degree of decomposition of the body. Attention must also be given to local wildlife assemblages and variations in their activities with the seasons. The implications of this research are in the determination of time of death. If the effects of scavengers accelerate decomposition this must be taken into account when any calculation since time of death is determined. The marked variations between sites in the rates of decomposition of carcasses exposed to natural animal scavenging in this study highlights the need for local calibration of time since death to decompositional stages for all locales. The techniques devised in this study are straight forward and easily conducted yet are informative and essential in determining time since death for bodies which have been exposed to animal scavenging.
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Taubmann, Benjamin [Verfasser], Hans P. [Akademischer Betreuer] Reiser, and Nuno [Akademischer Betreuer] Santos. "Improving Digital Forensics and Incident Analysis in Production Environments by Using Virtual Machine Introspection / Benjamin Taubmann ; Hans P. Reiser, Nuno Santos." Passau : Universität Passau, 2020. http://d-nb.info/1216330506/34.
Full text
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Arroyo-Mora, Luis E. "The Use of Hyphenated Spectrometric Techniques for the Environmental Forensic Assessment of Non-Traditional Pollutants and Degradates in the Greater Florida Everglades." FIU Digital Commons, 2009. http://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/144.
Full textAbstract:
A comprehensive investigation of sensitive ecosystems in South Florida with the main goal of determining the identity, spatial distribution, and sources of both organic biocides and trace elements in different environmental compartments is reported. This study presents the development and validation of a fractionation and isolation method of twelve polar acidic herbicides commonly applied in the vicinity of the study areas, including e.g. 2,4-D, MCPA, dichlorprop, mecroprop, picloram in surface water. Solid phase extraction (SPE) was used to isolate the analytes from abiotic matrices containing large amounts of dissolved organic material. Atmospheric-pressure ionization (API) with electrospray ionization in negative mode (ESP-) in a Quadrupole Ion Trap mass spectrometer was used to perform the characterization of the herbicides of interest. The application of Laser Ablation-ICP-MS methodology in the analysis of soils and sediments is reported in this study. The analytical performance of the method was evaluated on certified standards and real soil and sediment samples. Residential soils were analyzed to evaluate feasibility of using the powerful technique as a routine and rapid method to monitor potential contaminated sites. Forty eight sediments were also collected from semi pristine areas in South Florida to conduct screening of baseline levels of bioavailable elements in support of risk evaluation. The LA-ICP-MS data were used to perform a statistical evaluation of the elemental composition as a tool for environmental forensics. A LA-ICP-MS protocol was also developed and optimized for the elemental analysis of a wide range of elements in polymeric filters containing atmospheric dust. A quantitative strategy based on internal and external standards allowed for a rapid determination of airborne trace elements in filters containing both contemporary African dust and local dust emissions. These distributions were used to qualitative and quantitative assess differences of composition and to establish provenance and fluxes to protected regional ecosystems such as coral reefs and national parks.
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Scott, K. R. "The application of freshwater diatom analysis in forensic geoscience : establishing an empirical evidence base for the exclusionary assessment of trace environmental materials." Thesis, University College London (University of London), 2017. http://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/10024832/.
Full textAbstract:
Diatoms contribute valuable geoforensic trace evidence indicators due to their natural abundance, species diversity, and tenacity in various environments pertinent to forensic enquiry including freshwater, marine, and terrestrial sites. Although the exclusionary assessment of freshwater diatoms has been demonstrated in forensic casework, relatively little empirical research is currently documented within the field. This thesis addresses this research gap through the development of a systematic study, accounting for the spatial and temporal dynamics of diatom traces at different stages of the forensic investigation process. A series of experiments were performed to examine the pre-investigation transfer and persistence of freshwater diatoms on different clothing surfaces, and to develop the techniques and approaches available for the collection and analysis of evidential material. Additionally, two mock crime scenarios were designed to apply the empirical findings in casework contexts and to identify potential limitations during the exclusionary interpretation of evidence. A total of 1,236 diatom samples were collected and analysed using light (x1000 magnification) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The findings demonstrated that seasonality, the background prevalence of diatoms, clothing material characteristics, the site of initial contact (planktonic/benthic habitats), and diatom particulate morphology/ornamentation, all impact upon the total number of diatoms and the species diversity of an assemblage transferred and retained upon clothing over time. In addition, four new approaches for the rapid, comprehensive, and non-destructive collection and analysis of diatoms and other freshwater trace indicators adhered to clothing were also defined. This research presents the first systematic empirical assessment of freshwater diatom analysis for forensic reconstruction, and contributes important data to the evidence bases required to support forensic practice and underpin the exclusionary interpretation of diatom trace evidence in court. Furthermore, the findings from this research offer recommendations to inform, support, and extend the current applications of diatom analysis in forensic casework.
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Burgers, Peter. "An investigation into the use of a commonly available fabric dye as a routine stain for tissue samples to be used as a first line, low cost, diagnostic adjunct for the diagnosis of anaphylactic death at autopsy, in a resource-challenged environment." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/20289.
Full textAbstract:
A retrospective study of deaths attributable to anaphylaxis at the Salt River Forensic Pathology Laboratory was undertaken, with a view to determine if eosinophilia was present in tissue samples of the spleen, in accordance with previously published research. Suitable cases of non-anaphylactic death were used as controls. Use was made of two commonly available fabric dyes as alternative stains to the traditional Haematoxylin -Eosin ["H&E"].
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Le, Ashley. "The environmental presence of gunshot residue: A case study in the workspaces and hands of employees at a forensic laboratory in Western Australia." Thesis, Le, Ashley (2016) The environmental presence of gunshot residue: A case study in the workspaces and hands of employees at a forensic laboratory in Western Australia. Masters by Coursework thesis, Murdoch University, 2016. https://researchrepository.murdoch.edu.au/id/eprint/35095/.
Full textAbstract:
Gunshot residue (GSR) is a type of forensic trace evidence made up of particles that remain after a firearm is discharged, which can assist in determining if someone was involved with or in the vicinity of a fired weapon. A characteristic GSR particle consists of lead, barium, and antimony, although in modern ammunition lead is often absent or replaced with a different element. Although GSR sampling has many potential benefits for investigations, it has often been problematic due to the risk of transfer and contamination of particles from environmental sources; in particular, certain workplaces can have a high probability of containing GSR-like particles. Moreover, there is a potential of secondary transfer of particles from police officers to suspects or other evidence. Determining the source of the particles is crucial for evaluating the strength of GSR evidence. The admissibility of GSR evidence has become stronger in recent times with the development of the ASTM guidelines and the establishment of the Scientific Working Group for Gunshot Residue. However, there is still limited knowledge of the environmental sources of GSR-like particles in local areas and there is a pressing need to investigate differences in specific local environments.
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Harrison, D. L. "A multi proxy investigation into the effects of burial environments on nuclear DNA in bone over forensic and archaeological timescales." Thesis, Cranfield University, 2016. http://dspace.lib.cranfield.ac.uk/handle/1826/10646.
Full textAbstract:
This research conducted a two-pronged approach to study the effects of
taphonomic processes by conducting analysis of experimental burials of porcine
femora and parallel analysis of ancient human archaeological remains from
geologically distinct cemeteries. The aim of this study was to identify the major
degradative factors from depositional environments that affect the bone
composition and the retention and retrieval of nucleic DNA from archaeological
bone. Four different experimental burial environments of clay, compost, lime and
sand were designed, displaying different properties of soil type, pH, water content
and organic content. Analysis of the burial mediums and bones were conducted at
regular intervals over an 18 month period. Observations of changes in the burial
medium, comparisons of the rates and degree of soft tissue decomposition, bone
diagenesis from compositional assessment, and bone colour change were made
and analysed in correspondence with the different environments. The analytical
data collected on the diagenesis of the archaeological bone from both studies, was
compared to the DNA profiling success rates.
The research and optimisation of sample preparation and DNA analysis enabled
the most cost-effective and appropriate methods to be identified and utilised in
accordance with the preservation state of the bone samples. This allowed the
analysis of ancient archaeological bone to be analysed in-line with forensic
protocols, to enable a uniform accessible approach to produce comparable results
across different laboratories.
Drawing together the results from the various analytical techniques made it
possible to identify the variables that affect bone diagenesis and the survival of
nuclear DNA, and provide evidence that the rate of decomposition and bone
degradation is affected more significantly by the burial environment than duration
of burial, as stated in the research hypothesis. The presence of water, sand and the
level of organic content were found to be the most degradative variables within the
experimental burial conditions; causing changes in bone crystallinity, and
infiltration of contaminants into the bone. The presence of lime, chalk or limestone in an environment was found to have preserving properties in both the porcine
and human burials, by retarding the rate and degree of soft tissue decomposition,
and reducing the diagenetic changes in bone composition evident from the other
environments.
Despite previous reports of success using analytical techniques as predictive
models for DNA and bone preservation, no correlations with DNA survival could be
established. However the use of a multi-disciplinary approach enabled the
detection and identification of soil contaminants affecting the bone structure and
the ability to amplify DNA, in relation to burial environments. This research
highlighted the importance of utilising multiple analytical techniques, such as
colourimetry, ATR-FTIR, XRF and genetic analysis in order to avoid
misinterpretation and false reporting of the state of bone diagenesis or
preservation and the survival of DNA, due to environmental contaminants within
the hard tissue.
The research confirms the idea that in order to establish optimised sampling and
DNA analysis of archaeological bone, it is imperative that certain protocols are
adhered to. Precautions must be implemented from excavation through to
laboratory analysis to avoid contamination; and correct recording of burial
environment is essential to enable consideration of extrinsic factors and
contaminants when reporting results.