Exploring the influence of washing activities on the transfer and persistence of fibres in forensic science.

In forensic science, a robust and sound interpretation and evaluation of transferred fibre evidence requires an understanding of the principles and mechanisms that underpin fibre transfer, yet existing research lacks consistency and repeatability. This study investigates the impact of washing activities on both the release of fibres into wastewater and the transfer of constituent fibres from donor garments to receiver swatches. Using a low-cost friction tester and automated data collection through photography and ImageJ image processing software, controlled conditions were maintained for repeated experiments. Results indicated significant fibre release during wash cycles, with load size and donor garment history playing crucial roles. The donor garments subjected to repetitive washes exhibit a progressive decrease in the number of fibres transferred, independently of the load size. This study underscores the importance of considering a garment's washing history in forensic science contexts, but also for consistency in the way that data are collected.

In depth investigation of the capabilities and limitations of combined proteomic-MALDI MS based approach for the forensic detection of blood.

For the past 7 years, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Mass Spectrometry (MALDI MS) based methods have been developed and published for the forensic detection of blood in stains and fingermarks. However, in the view of adoption in an operational context, further investigation into the capabilities and limitations of this approach must be conducted. The refinement and testing of this approach must also be tailored to the requirements of the end users, enabling them to address the specific circumstances most encountered in a forensic scenario. The present study delves deeper into the assessment of the applicability of MALDI MS based strategy for the reliable and robust detection of human blood through: (i) a semi-qualitative assessment of the sensitivity of the method, (ii) a wider investigation of the compatibility of the method with the prior application of commonly used presumptive tests and (iii) assessment of the specificity of the method (when blood is present in mixture with other biofluids) and of its robustness, by assessing blood detection from a range of porous materials. The findings strengthen the evidence supporting the adoption of MALDI MS based approaches as a confirmatory test for the forensic detection of human blood in an operational context.

Illuminating the health and safety of luminol.

Luminol is a reagent that is used to enhance areas of non-visible bloodstaining and it is one of the most sensitive of such reagents available to the forensic scientist. However, its use, particularly within the UK and some other European countries, has been limited, predominantly due to concerns about the health and safety of the reagent. This paper reviews the literature currently available regarding the health and safety of luminol, and in the authors' view demonstrates that there are no significant health and safety concerns with the preparation of luminol solution and its application at the crime scene or in the laboratory, providing suitable precautions are taken.