University of Central Oklahoma

Permanent URI for this community

https://hdl.handle.net/11244/47149

Founded in 1890 as one of the state's first institutions of higher learning, the University of Central Oklahoma exists to help students learn by providing transformative education experiences to students so that they may become productive, creative, ethical, and engaged citizens and leaders serving our global community.

UCO's SHAREOK community is maintained by Chambers Library's Digital Initiatives Working Group (DIWG). DIWG's mission is to create, enhance, preserve, and administer the library’s digital collections in the interest of furthering the library’s mission to connect the Central community to dynamic resources and services that support transformative learning. DIWG is focused on gathering materials created by UCO affiliates of a scholarly, creative, and/or research-related nature.

Chambers Library is committed to accurately and respectfully describing materials relating to historically overlooked communities. Users encountering offensive or outdated terminology found on the library’s website, Central Search, SHAREOK, or elsewhere in the collection may submit a report to our metadata team. To learn more, visit the library’s Inclusive Metadata Initiative page.

Browse

Now showing 1 - 14 of 14

Open Access
A comparative analysis of impact spatter and satellite spatter on fabric.
(2016) Short, Jade; Adams, Dwight; Gravel, Craig; McCoy, Mark R.
Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) is the practice reconstructing bloodletting events by interpreting the bloodstains left at the crime scene. In addition to the examination of well-formed bloodstains on non-porous surfaces, the bloodstain analyst is often asked to analyze bloodstained clothing. These types of analyses present challenges to the analyst because of the distorted nature of bloodstains on fabric. Although the evaluation of bloodstained fabric is both difficult and common, the research concerning bloodstain development on textiles is limited. A strong understanding of bloodstain mechanisms on fabric is imperative because an analyst's conclusion may implicate or exclude the wearer as an assailant based on their interpretation. As an effort to contribute to the limited research, the current research comparatively analyzed two types of spatter, impact spatter and satellite spatter, on 100% cotton jersey knit t-shirt fabric and 100% cotton bed sheet fabric. Impact spatter was reproduced by a mousetrap apparatus and satellite spatter was simulated by dripping drops of blood into a volume stain. The two types of spatter were analyzed in a quantitative manner through the use of ImageJ. The bloodstains were qualitatively analyzed with and without macroscopic magnification. Descriptive attributes such as size, impact angle, shape, symmetrical properties, and weave saturation were recorded and a narrative analysis allowed the presentation of other unique features of each spatter. The non-fabric control samples successfully reproduced unique characteristics of impact spatter and satellite spatter and were used as a standard for the comparison of the spattered fabrics. The t-shirt fabric proved to have the highest amount of bloodstain distortion. The spatters were comparative in the quantitative and qualitative analysis; however, the narrative analysis revealed the presence of fine, very small submillimeter stains on the satellite spattered fabric that was absent in the impact spatter samples. Additionally, the satellite spattered t-shirt fabric exhibited some signs of random directionality within the bloodstains. The bed sheet fabric yielded results that coincided more with the controls in terms of size. The descriptive stain analysis yielded similar results; however, the narrative analysis revealed the same results for the satellite spattered bed sheet fabric as the satellite spattered t-shirt fabric. Furthermore, the impact spattered bed sheets revealed distinguishing spines around the stains; spines were present in the controls, but not in the t-shirt fabric. The conclusions of the current study revealed that impact spatter and satellite spatter may or may not have distinguishing characteristics depending on the type of fabric; however, the study also affirmed the previous claims that impact spatter and satellite spatter have many similar qualities. The characteristics of impact spatter on fabric have been investigated by previous research; however, because of satellite spatter's resemblance to impact spatter, more research ought to be conducted on satellite bloodstain development on an array of fabrics and also at different angles and distances from its source to its impact site. Experimentation of this nature will contribute to the knowledge of small bloodstain development on fabric and thus, assist in the advancement the discipline.
Open Access
A validation of Promega's PowerPlex?« 16 HS system testing the strengths and limitations.
(2011) Forbes, Megan A.; Adams, Dwight; Haynie, Michelle L., 1975-; Lord, Wayne
An internal validation study was conducted using the PowerPlex?« 16 HS system to ensure proper performance on the Applied Biosystems 3130 Genetic Analyzer in the University of Central Oklahoma laboratory. Manual extraction with the DNA IQ system was performed. The Quantifiler Human Quantification kit was used to quantify the samples. Promega Corporation's PowerPlex?« 16 HS system was used to amplify DNA samples on a GeneAmp?« PCR System 9700 thermal cycler. Separation occurred through capillary electrophoresis on an Applied Biosystems 3130 Genetic Analyzer. Following parameters established through the validation, an environmental study was conducted to simulate casework samples. The environmental study included ultraviolet treatment, tannic acid, humic acid, and hematin. The results support the multiplexing system is capable of handling DNA samples.
Open Access
An enzymatic means for the rehabilitation of low-copy number and degraded DNA.
(2014) Sambol, Nicole; Adams, Dwight; Chooback, Lillian; Creecy, James
In spite of the immense success forensic DNA analysis has obtained over the last twenty-five years, a substantive challenge within the field of forensic DNA analysis is amplification and interpretation of degraded and low-copy number (LCN) DNA obtained from minimal and poor quality biological evidence. It has been well established that DNA profiles obtained from degraded samples are often of limited value due to the frequent occurrence of preferential amplification during polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The by-products of preferential PCR amplification are often observed as inter- and intra-locus peak imbalance, allelic dropout, and/or locus dropout. Inspired by advances in next-generation sequencing techniques, I propose a methodology for simultaneously normalizing the abundance of PCR products across all short tandem repeat (STR) loci using the DNA exonuclease, duplex-specific nucelase (DSN).
Open Access
Approaching objectivity in firearms identification : utilizing IBIS BULLETTRAX-3D's sensor capturing technology.
(2011) Christophe, Deion P.; Adams, Dwight; Lord, Wayne; McCoy, Mark R.
Firearm examiners are often asked 1) can a bullet be matched back to the cartridge case from which it was fired? 2) What bullets leave suitable markings for microscopic examinations of this nature? 3) Is there an objective approach for interpreting firearm examiner conclusions derived from microscopic examination? For years, the inability to objectively answer questions of this nature suggests the need for further studies that offer appropriate, reliable conclusions in this discipline. The purpose of this study was to determine the possibility of identifying a bullet back to a cartridge case under both polygonal and conventional firing methods. Additional objectives were to determine which brands of ammunition produced seating marks suitable for comparison purposes, and to determine if a more objective approach for interpreting Firearm examiner identifications exists. A fixed bin analysis consisting of 53 bins in a side by side representation was utilized to analyze specific regions of interest on a single bullet's bearing surface which was acquired in 1.6mm (band) wide increments by the IBIS BULLETTRAX-3DTM system. Both qualitative and quantitative results provided by this research address concerns that have been outlined by the National Research Council (2009). The major findings in this study indicate it is possible to identify a bullet back to a cartridge case utilizing both conventional and polygonal methods of firing through use of sound methodology. This research also revealed a higher likelihood for abundant sets of striae on ammunition brands containing nickel cartridge cases. It was also established that the IBIS BULLETTRAX-3DTM system can assist examiners with better visualization and the ability to provide more objective conclusions that carry a much higher degree of certainty when conducting bullet comparisons.
Open Access
Assessment of consecutive matching striae.
(2012) Li, Haodu; Adams, Dwight; Jourdan, Thomas; Mabry, John
Firearm and tool mark identification relies on criteria that have been accepted in the field to assist firearm examiners in determining if a bullet has been fired from a particular firearm. In this research, criteria for firearm conclusions were reviewed, in light of current challenges by the scientific and legal community concerning the reliability of firearm and tool mark identification theories and practice. The aim of the research is to determine the effectiveness of Consecutive Matching Striae (CMS) criteria with respect to two-dimensional and three-dimensional marks viewed on both known and unknown test bullets from different caliber weapons. This particular research was conducted using .25 Auto, .380 Auto, 38 SPL, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 Auto, and 7.62x39mm bullets. All data were used to evaluate the validity of CMS for identification purposes by examining groove impressions. The results revealed that current CMS criteria were valid for firearm identification but some known match comparisons were excluded when applying CMS criteria. Therefore, new criteria were proposed for assistance of firearm identification.--Abstract.
Open Access
Beyond DNA : an epigenetic approach to identical twin identification
(2016) Scrivner, Coltan; Adams, Dwight; Cassidy, Brandt; Creecy, James
For more than two decades, DNA analysis has helped forensic scientists link suspects to a crime. Often times, DNA evidence is one of the most impactful pieces of evidence available. However, there is still one thing that traditional DNA analysis cannot accomplish - differentiating DNA from identical twins. With identical twins becoming more common than in the past and with numerous examples of cases being dropped because an identical twin was implicated, it would benefit the forensic science community to find a solution to this problem. The goal of this project was to see if the conventional forensic science techniques of cycle sequencing and capillary electrophoresis could be used to distinguish twins via DNA methylation analysis. It was found that the use of cycle sequencing and capillary electrophoresis for the analysis of DNA methylation extracted from human cells was problematic. While small successes were achieved in analyzing the methylation, the results were not consistent. Thus, while cycle sequencing and capillary electrophoresis are convenient and cost efficient for the forensic science community, they may not the best instruments for this problem. The PRKCA locus was shown to be a strong candidate locus that could be targeted by cycle sequencing or high-throughput sequencing technology. Therefore, rather than using an expensive and time-consuming method such as ultra-deep next generation sequencing to differentiate identical twins, the forensic science community should identify several key loci, such as the PRKCA gene analyzed in this study, for DNA methylation analysis.
Open Access
Bloodstain pattern analysis with infrared photography as a tool to visualize impact and satellite spatter on denim
(2019) Traverso, Christina; Adams, Dwight; Gravel, Craig; McCoy, Mark R.
Correctly classifying bloodstain patterns is a crucial element of providing conclusions in the field of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis, because the type of bloodstain pattern speaks to how the bloodstains were created. Very few studies have compared impact spatter specifically to satellite spatter. The research needs outlined by SWGSTAIN include a better understanding of discriminating between bloodstain patterns containing small stains (present in both impact and satellite spatter), how blood interacts with different types of fabric, and developing new methods of visualizing and enhancing bloodstains (2011). Further, the Organization of Scientific Area Committee (OSAC) on BPA, which absorbed SWGSTAIN, outlines needs to reduce the subjectivity in BPA classification and understanding the interaction between blood and fabrics (OSAC, 2019). The only study to the author's knowledge that specifically compares satellite spatter to impact spatter is Short's 2016 study, which compared the two patterns on several different fabrics. However, Short was not able to visualize spatter on denim, due to dark color of the denim and lack of contrast between the blood and denim surface. The current study used infrared photography to view simulated satellite spatter and impact spatter on 100% cotton denim and poster board. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected. Two-way ANOVA, Cochran-Mantel-Haensel, and chi-square tests were performed on the data. Several comparisons found either a significant interaction, difference, or association between independent and dependent variables, depending on the test performed and the type of data analyzed. Overall, by utilizing the methods in this study, it is possible to differentiate between simulated impact and satellite spatter on denim fabric.
Open Access
Comparison of Extraction Kits PrepFiller?« and DNA IQ for STR analysis of contact DNA Samples.
(2011) Wang, Xiaowei; Adams, Dwight; Haynie, Michelle L., 1975-; Lord, Wayne
Contact DNA evidence is becoming a common occurrence at crime scenes and is often collected and analyzed for human identification. Current Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) techniques are still limited in Low Copy Number (LCN) DNA analysis due to contamination and stochastic effect. Increasing DNA yield from the extraction step is a potential benefit for many investigations. One hundred and fifty samples collected from five female individuals on five commonly-used items were extracted by two forensic extraction systems: DNA IQTM and PrepFiler Kit?« with subsequent genotyping by PowerPlex?« 16 HS system. Results determined that these extraction systems are not suitable for LCN DNA samples. Only two complete STR profiles were produced without contamination. These findings indicated that further improvements are required in order to utilize STR analysis for LCN DNA.
Open Access
Detecting latent bloodstains through primers designed to block stains, and paint plus primer mixed paints using Bluestar® Forensic
(2023) Norman, Ashley; Adams, Dwight; Gravel, Craig; Mabry, John; Kress, Austin
This study was conducted to determine if a paint plus primer or a primer designed specifically to block stains would affect the efficacy of Bluestar® Forensic, a blood enhancement reagent, through varying layers of paint. Very little research has been done on Bluestar® Forensic within the forensic science community, meaning research into its limitations is still in its infancy. This study focused on a dark colour vs a light colour, spatter vs swipe patterns, and four different brands of paint. Sixteen two-foot by two-foot pieces of sheetrock were purchased and sorted into two equal groups. Eight of them were used for swipe pattern testing and eight were used for spatter pattern testing. Within each group of eight, two pieces of sheetrock were put together to create a two-foot by four-foot panel. Each piece of sheetrock was split into one-foot by one-foot sections. Each row was assigned a different paint and or primer. Starting at the left, the first one-foot by one-foot square was split into two control squares, and then in each square from left to right thereafter, each paint was applied with one layer, then three layers, then five layers. Ultimately, there was one two-foot by four-foot panel for light coloured paint plus primer, one two-foot by four-foot panel for dark coloured paint plus primer, one two-foot by four-foot panel for light coloured stain blocking primer, and one two-foot by four-foot panel for dark coloured stain blocking primer for each pattern tested (spatter and swipe) for a total of eight two-foot by four-foot panels. The goal of this study was to determine the limitations of Bluestar® Forensic using commonly available paints and/or primers found in any local hardware store. This study found that visually, the dark colour was more effective in concealing bloodstains. The paint plus primers were visually less effective than the stain blocking primers when using a light colour. The concentration of blood applied to the surface, via swipe over spatter, did make a difference in Bluestar®'s ability to detect the hidden bloodstains with the lighter colour.
Open Access
Identification of human blood messenger ribonucleic acids through non-polymerase chain reaction based multiplexing.
(2013) Xu, Yanlin; Adams, Dwight; Creecy, James; Lord, Wayne
The goal of this research project was to develop a method for the identification of human blood that was simple and fast to use, yet sensitive and specific enough for forensic casework. Based on these criteria, the ideal assay would be based on messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) multiplexing specific for blood identification. According to the central dogma of molecular biology and gene expression, it can be theorized that the identity of human specific biological material can be obtained based only on the mRNA expressed by genes of a particular tissue. Once isolated, the tissue specific mRNA can be detected using the affinity of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) probes which contain the complementary sequence for annealing. The newly annealed double stranded nucleic acid will then serve as the target for detection via fluorescent molecular labeling, which will allow the human specific biological material targets to be detectable under ultraviolet light. Development of such a method would provide the field with a more rapid and accurate assay for analysis of forensic serology samples
Open Access
The empirical evaluation and examination of breechface markings on ten consecutively manufactured pistol slides
(2013) Huang, Sascha; Adams, Dwight; Christophe, Deion; McCoy, Mark R.
Previously published research and case studies exist pertaining to consecutively manufactured tool marks and the individuality of those markings on tools. This study seeked to assess the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) Theory of Identification and provide additional research into the investigation of characteristics potentially viewed on the breechfaces of pistol slides. The researcher obtained ten consecutively manufactured Ruger LCP .380 Auto slides for examination. The tool marks exhibited on the breechfaces were macroscopically examined, evaluated in terms of potential for the transfer of subclass characteristics, and examined for the presence of individual characteristics. This research indicated whether breechface markings were accorded to their respective slide or if misidentification by examiners was possible. The first phase of this study was in further validating the AFTE Theory of Identification through generation of a test for AFTE members. This test required examiners to distinguish between subclass and individual characteristics, identify cartridge cases to their respective slide, and determine whether there was potential for misidentification of breechface markings due to subclass carryover. The second phase observed the differences and similarities of examiner ability and IBIS?«BRASSTRAX-3D TM's ability to identify cartridge cases. This study might also function as a test for firearm and tool mark examiners to utilize in their laboratories as a training exercise related to consecutively manufactured breechfaces. The research findings might also facilitate the development of error rates pertaining to this study.
Open Access
The forensic value of processed human hair extensions.
(2014) Porterfield, Caitlin; Adams, Dwight; Cassidy, Brandt; Creecy, James
The human hair extension industry has grown immensely with revenues exceeding nine billion dollars each year. Statistics indicate that over sixty percent of women have at some point invested in hair extensions and that they are even becoming popular with men. In spite of the expansion of the extension consumer market, human hair extensions have never been evaluated for their evidentiary value in a forensic case. A human hair extension collected from a crime scene would be evaluated as a shed human telogen hair and analyze during microscopic techniques and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Sequencing of mtDNA from the extension would place the hair donor, not the suspect, at the scene. Although it is not likely that the mtDNA sequence would be matched to the donor's maternal lineage, the evidence would be misleading. Hair extensions collected from a crime scene would misdirect an investigation and result in a misuse of time and resources. The ability to identify a human hair as an extension would be invaluable during an investigation and might exclude the hair as probative evidence. The human hair extension industry has grown immensely with revenues exceeding nine billion dollars each year. Statistics indicate that over sixty percent of women have at some point invested in hair extensions and that they are even becoming popular with men. In spite of the expansion of the extension consumer market, human hair extensions have never been evaluated for their evidentiary value in a forensic case. A human hair extension collected from a crime scene would be evaluated as a shed human telogen hair and analyze during microscopic techniques and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). Sequencing of mtDNA from the extension would place the hair donor, not the suspect, at the scene. Although it is not likely that the mtDNA sequence would be matched to the donor's maternal lineage, the evidence would be misleading. Hair extensions collected from a crime scene would misdirect an investigation and result in a misuse of time and resources. The ability to identify a human hair as an extension would be invaluable during an investigation and might exclude the hair as probative evidence. mtDNA extracted from the hair extensions was sequenced and compared to the revised Cambridge sequence (rCRS) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). SNPs were used to assign haplotypes and distinguish regional affiliations associated with the extensions in an attempt to establish the ethnicity of the hair donor's maternal lineage. Haplotype assignments for the hair extensions were based on HV2 genetic polymorphisms and represented multiple geographic regions and a large portion of the population. HV2 sequences were not restrictive enough to determine regional affiliations for particular extension brands or processed human hair extensions as a whole. More definitive haplotype assignments would be possible with HV1 SNP discrimination. Also, sequence variation between hair extensions of the same brand indicated that the hair within a single package of extensions was from multiple donors. This has significant implications in forensic analysis.
Open Access
The use of image analyzing software for muzzle to target distance determination.
(2011) Edwards, Kimberly A.; Adams, Dwight; Jourdan, Thomas; Mabry, John
Muzzle to target distance can be an important aspect in criminal investigations. For most distance determination opinions to be of value to an investigation, the range must be stated such that it gives meaningful information and the resulting bracket of muzzle to target distance must also be defended during courtroom testimony. Current measurement tools lead to subjective opinions by examiners. With objective measurements, examiners can provide improved investigative conclusions that may be defended in court with quantifiable data. Due to the rapid advancement in software technology in recent years, the ability exists to analyze targets with more accurate measurements. Currently, test targets are measured by approximate methods which utilize a high degree of subjectivity. This study examined the application of Image J, image analyzing software, for use in determining muzzle to target distance. This research examined objective data to include particulate density and Gunshot residue dispersion and carried out a statistical replicate study to determine the number of targets needed at a given distance for each gun and ammunition combination. One pistol, revolver, rifle and shotgun were selected for this study. Test targets were shot five times at distances of: 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24 and 28 inches for the pistol, revolver and rifle, and at distances of: 4, 8, 12 and 16 feet for the shotgun. Visual and chemical examinations were performed on test targets using standard protocol procedures, published through the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) Distance Determination Training Module (2011). The targets were digitally photographed through each step and analyzed using the aforementioned protocol and Image J, image analyzing software. Comparisons were made between the National Institute of Justice model and Image J. Data were obtained and reported using the image analyzing software for particulate count and GSR dispersion.
Open Access
Validation and evaluation of the Identifiler?« Plus system using environmentally compromised DNA samples.
(2011) Reynaga, Erica; Adams, Dwight; Haynie, Michelle L., 1975-; Lord, Wayne
Internal validations are required for every laboratory for every kit chemistry used. This study validated the Identifiler?« Plus STR Amplification kit for use at the University of Central Oklahoma. Validations examine the sensitivity, precision, reproducibility, peak height ratio, and stutter observed in testing. In addition to these components, the validation also sets mixture interpretations, evaluates contamination, and conducts a mock case study. At the conclusion of the validation, the Identifiler?« Plus kit was also tested using common inhibitors such as UV light, humic acid, tannic acid, and hematin. Guidelines for interpretation and an analysis of the affect of inhibitors were drawn from the results obtained in the study.