Forensic Sciences
[Abbr: Acd. Jr. AJFSc]Peels to Prints- (Exploring Natural Peels for Development of Latent Fingerprints) – A Review
by Shubangi Bisht
Fingerprints are an essential piece of evidence that are used to establish identities in criminal investigations. It is now essential to find and improve these fingerprints. The techniques for creating latent fingerprints have changed over the last century, incorporating both chemical and physical processes. Because of this, fingerprint investigation techniques are constantly evolving, necessitating extensive training and practice for individuals involved in laboratory and crime scene processing to guarantee their efficacy and safety. Graphical ridge and valley patterns can be used to represent fingerprints. In the 2000s, fingerprints became the most commonly used biometric identifier due to their permanence and uniqueness. Consequently, the most widely used foundation for automated fingerprint verification is now the recognition of minute features. The ridge ending and ridge bifurcation were the most often utilized minutiae features for automated fingerprint verification. In order to properly identify their rightful owner, latent fingerprints must have distinguishable ridge characteristics. Presenting fingerprint evidence is important for legal proceedings and criminal case investigation processes. This review looked into fingerprint powders out of leftover materials like lemon and egg peels. These environmentally friendly substitutes worked well on various types of surfaces, demonstrating their potential as long-term solutions for forensic analysis. According to the studies of finding with the usage of natural powder fingerprints were developed successfully using various powders. Egg shell powder proved to be the most effective natural powder in terms of fingerprint results. This review gives idea about use of waste material and lessens the need for artificial chemicals making forensic procedures more sustainable. Keywords: Forensics, Genetics, STR Markers, DNA Profiling, Advancements
Role of MATLAB Software in Multimedia Forensics: Techniques, Applications and Advancements
by Kacha Janki D., Dr. (Prof.) Himanshu A. Pandya, Dr. Kapil Kumar
A vital topic that includes many methods for verifying, examining, and interpreting multimedia data for security and legal reasons is multimedia forensics. MATLAB software has become an indispensable resource in this field, providing a vast range of functions catered to the complex requirements of multimedia forensics. This abstract clarifies the relevance, uses, and developments of MATLAB in multimedia forensics, highlighting its critical position in the field. Verifying the integrity and validity of multimedia content is crucial, and multimedia forensics, an interdisciplinary area at the nexus of computer science, signal processing, and forensic science, plays a key part in this process. The MATLAB software has become a highly effective tool in this field in recent years, with a multitude of functions catered to the complex requirements of digital media analysis. This review paper offers a thorough overview of the use of MATLAB software in multimedia forensics by examining the body of literature, highlighting significant developments, trends, and approaches, and evaluating their professional implications. This study intends to clarify the important contributions of MATLAB software in developing the state-of-the-art in multimedia forensics and influencing the future of digital media authentication through a methodical evaluation of the applications, problems, and future directions. To sum up, MATLAB software stands out as a key component in the field of multimedia forensics because it provides unmatched capabilities for machine learning, signal processing, and experimental investigation. Its flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability enable researchers and forensic analysts to address the complexities of digital media authentication and analysis, pushing the boundaries of forensic science and enhancing the reliability and integrity of multimedia data across a range of applications. Keywords: Forensic Anthropology, Osteology, Bone Trauma Analysis, Gender Determination, Age Determination MATLAB Software, Multimedia Forensics, Digital Image Processing, Image Forensics, Audio-Video Forensics, Machine Learning-Deep learning, Artificial Intelligence.
A Review of Forensic Ballistics: Methods and Techniques for Cartridge Case Analysis
by Manju, Mahima Sharma
Forensic ballistics is a crucial discipline within forensic science, focusing on the identification and analysis of firearms, ammunition, and related evidence to assist in criminal investigations. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the methods and techniques employed in cartridge case examination, emphasizing their significance in weapon identification. Fired cartridge cases contain various marks on their surfaces, including striation marks, ejector marks, extractor marks, breech face marks, head marks, firing pin marks, firing pin drag marks, chamber striation marks, and magazine marks. These marks are unique to each firearm, making them critical for linking a cartridge case to a specific weapon. The challenges posed by cartridge cases fired from country-made weapons often exhibit irregular and unique markings due to unconventional manufacturing processes. These firearms, typically produced with less precision than standard firearms, create cartridge cases with distinctive characteristics that differ significantly from those of standard firearms. This complexity not only adds to the identification process but also provides unique forensic opportunities. The paper explores traditional techniques such as visual inspection and comparison microscopy, foundational methods in forensic ballistics that rely on expert analysis of microscopic and macroscopic markings. Modern advancements, including digital imaging and automated matching algorithms, have significantly enhanced the precision and efficiency of these examinations. Technologies such as the Ballistic Identification System (Ball Scan) are streamlining the comparison and identification of cartridge cases. Through a detailed examination of existing methodologies and recent advancements, this review aims to enhance the reliability and effectiveness of cartridge case analysis in criminal investigations. Keywords: Forensic Ballistics, Firearms, Ammunition, Cartridge Case, Country-Made Weapons, Ballistic Identification System.
A Pilot Study On The Identification Of Blood Using Raman Spectroscopy
by Sowndarya S, Dr. Suchita Rawat
Blood is frequently found at crime scenes, either as dried stains or in liquid form, yet it's often in limited quantities. Traditional tests for blood can sometimes damage the sample, hindering deeper analysis. Recent scientific work has highlighted Raman spectroscopy as a non-invasive method for identifying bodily fluids. This study delves into the sensitivity and accuracy of Raman spectroscopy in identifying blood, using the Raman peakseeker™-PRO785 for our analysis. Our study demonstrated that Raman Spectroscopy can detect blood even when diluted up to 1:250 with water. Additionally, this technique successfully identified blood in aged samples. In essence, this study underscores the importance of Raman spectroscopy in identifying various body fluids. Keywords: Raman Spectra, Human Blood, Sensitivity, Specificity
STR Markers: Pioneering Advances in Forensic Science and Genetic Research
by Sameeksha Dubey, Anjali
Forensic proteomics is a cutting-edge science that uses extensive protein analysis to handle various forensic difficulties, complementing traditional DNA-based approaches. Proteins' stability and abundance in biological samples make them important when DNA evidence is deteriorated, tainted, or inadequate. Advanced mass spectrometry methods make it easier to identify and characterize proteins and their post-translational changes, revealing important information about the biological condition and identity of persons engaged in criminal investigations.Proteomic analysis has several forensic uses, including identifying human remains, estimating post-mortem periods, and determining the reason and manner of death. Proteins taken from bones, teeth, and hair can provide valuable information about a person's age, gender, and perhaps lineage. Furthermore, examining protein breakdown patterns helps to estimate the period after death, which is an important component in forensic investigations. In violent crime cases, proteomic techniques may detect blood, sperm, saliva, and other body fluids, even in tiny amounts, using unique protein markers. Forensic proteomics also covers the examination of non-human proteins, which is essential in wildlife forensics and identifying animal species involved in illegal trade and poaching incidents.The resilience of proteins under varied environmental circumstances enables the examination of material exposed to hostile environments, increasing the scope of forensic investigations. Despite its intriguing premise, forensic proteomics confronts several hurdles, including the need for standardized techniques, large protein databases, and powerful bioinformatics tools for data analysis. Continued advances in mass spectrometry, sample preparation, and computer analysis are critical for overcoming these barriers and incorporating proteomics into standard forensic practice. Keywords: forensic proteomics, mass spectrometry, computational analysis, post-translational modifications
From Glass To Growth: Analysis Of Common Milk Adulterants On Chidren’s Development
by Isha chhapadia, Rakesh V, Nagashree M N
Milk is one of the most widely consumed beverages globally. To meet the high demand, milk adulteration has become prevalent, posing a significant public health concern, particularly affecting the growth and development of children. Common adulterants such as water, detergents, synthetic milk, urea, starch, and harmful preservatives like formaldehyde are frequently added to milk to increase volume and extend shelf-life, thereby compromising its nutritional integrity and safety. Children, especially during critical growth phases, rely heavily on milk for essential nutrients such as proteins, calcium, vitamins, and minerals. The addition of adulterants can dilute these vital nutrients, leading to malnutrition and growth deficiencies. Chemical adulterants like urea and detergents can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, impair nutrient absorption, and introduce toxicity, further exacerbating nutritional deficiencies. Furthermore, harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde in milk can lead to serious health issues, including developmental delays and potential long-term health complications. Exposure to these toxins can impair cognitive development, weaken the immune system, and hinder physical growth, using colorimetric and qualitative analysis methods, this study examines milk adulterants that are common in the Bangalore region. This paper covers the detection of common adulterants used in packaged milk packets and their impact on children's growth in Bangalore region. Keywords: Milk Adulteration, Child Growth, Nutritional Deficiencies, Adulterants, Urea, Formaldehyde, Cognitive Development, Public Health.
Adulteration in Packaged Milk Products: Impact on Women's Health and Wellbeing
by Sweety Santra, Rajee Johnson, Kajal Bansal
Packaged milk offers convenience and is a popular choice for many urban dwellers with busy schedules, especially those working in metropolitan areas. Milk adulteration is a widespread issue for public health, notably affecting women's health and reproductive well-being. The inclusion of common adulterants such as water, urea, starch, and harmful preservatives like formaldehyde compromises the nutritional integrity and safety of milk. Women, particularly during their reproductive years, rely on the essential nutrients in milk—such as proteins, calcium, vitamins, and minerals—to support overall health, hormonal balance, and foetal development. Adulterants dilute these vital nutrients, leading to deficiencies that can affect reproductive health, including menstrual irregularities, reduced fertility, and complications during pregnancy. This study examines the widespread issue of milk adulteration in packaged milk products and its potential impact on women's health, particularly in urban areas of Bangalore. The research explores how adulteration affects the physical properties of milk, including viscosity, pH, surface tension, and density, and relates these changes with reported health issues in women from Bangalore. This research emphasizes necessity for strict quality control protocols and increased public awareness to combat milk adulteration, ensuring the well-being and safety of women. Keywords: Milk Adulteration, Women's Health, Reproductive Wellbeing, Nutritional Deficiencies, Physical parameters
Forensic Challenges in sperm analysis with concurrent contraceptive use: A comprehensive review
by Riya Ghosh
Forensic sperm analysis is pivotal in sexual assault investigations, aiding in perpetrator identification and legal proceedings. However, concurrent contraceptive use presents significant challenges in sperm detection, recovery, and analysis. This review explores the impact of various contraceptive methods—hormonal contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and barrier methods—on forensic outcomes. Hormonal contraceptives can alter the vaginal environment, reducing sperm viability and concentration. IUDs can cause physical displacement or degradation of spermatozoa, and barrier methods, like condoms, may leave minimal or no trace of sperm, complicating forensic analysis. The situation becomes more complex when the female victim has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD). These conditions involve hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles, further affecting the vaginal milieu and the presence of endogenous cells critical for forensic interpretation. Additionally, PCOS/PCOD often results in increased vaginal secretions and varied pH levels, which can compromise sperm integrity, making traditional analysis methods less effective. Advanced forensic techniques, including DNA profiling and sperm cell isolation methods, are evaluated for their effectiveness in overcoming these challenges. The review highlights recent advancements in forensic technology, such as laser capture microdissection (LCM) and improved DNA extraction methods, which have enhanced the ability to analyse compromised sperm samples. Additionally, the implications of these forensic challenges in legal contexts are examined, emphasizing the importance of accurate and reliable sperm analysis in criminal investigations and legal proceedings. The review underscores the need for forensic scientists to remain cognizant of the potential impacts of contraceptive use on sperm analysis and to continuously update their methodologies to account for these variables. Future research directions are suggested, including the development of more robust analytical techniques and standardized protocols to mitigate the effects of contraceptives on sperm analysis. Ultimately, this comprehensive review aims to provide a thorough understanding of the forensic challenges in sperm analysis with concurrent contraceptive use and to propose solutions for enhancing the accuracy and reliability of forensic investigations Keywords: Spermnalysis, Sexual Assaults, PCOD, Hormones, Contraceptive, Investigation, PCOS.
Recent Advancement In Key Restoration By Chemical Itching Methods
by Priya
Forensic science is multifascinated and multidimensional field it composes of scientific discipline that carries range of expertise. Forensic science is major instrument for the detection and investigation of crime and the administration of justice as well as providing crucial information about the evidence found at crime scene. Any object that found at scene provide information about the link between victim, crime and perpetrator is considered as evidence found at crime scene.Restoring serial numbers on metal surfaces—like those on cars, guns, and other objects—that have been purposefully removed or destroyed is essential for identification and inquiry. Criminals frequently employ a variety of methods, such as grinding, scraping, or chemically changing the metal surface, to hide or erase these numbers. The original serial number may still be present in the underlying metal layers despite these efforts because of the changes and depressions made to them. In order to find any remaining markings, restoration techniques may include analysing these deeper layers using techniques like etching or magnetic particle analysis. However, the recovery of the serial number becomes much more difficult and necessitates sophisticated forensic techniques if all of the metal's layers have been extensively corroded or destroyed. Obtaining appropriate authorization is essential when restoring erased serial numbers, particularly when working with legal or proprietary goods, to guarantee that the procedure is carried out within moral and legal bounds. Furthermore, preserving the object's integrity is essential; restoration efforts should be limited to obtaining the serial number without changing or harming the thing beyond what is required. There are numerous, significant uses for recovering erased serial numbers in different fields. It is crucial for forensic investigations to identify weapons, cars, and other evidence connected to criminal activity. By restoring original markings on antiques and artefacts, this procedure maintains provenance and value for historical and collectible items. Serial numbers are essential in industrial settings for monitoring and controlling machinery and equipment, guaranteeing correct documentation and effective operation. Keywords: Metal Sheet, Crime Scene, Serial Number.
Psychosocial Profiling Of Children In Conflict With Law: An Exploratory Study In India
by Shweta Nitin Mahajan, Aditi Usha Tigga
Juveniles in conflict with law are a significant part of society requiring special attention. They are a vulnerable population driven by a wide range of sociodemographic and psychosocial factors. Understanding these elements is critical to establishing effective interventions and policies. The purpose of this study is to explore the sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics associated with juveniles in conflict with the law. The goal was to find trends in the key characteristics such as age, education, type of offenses, family dynamics etc. The study used an exploratory research design, with 21 juveniles identified through purposive sampling in Ahmedabad, Gujarat - India. Data was collected using structured interviews that comprised both open-ended and closed-ended questions. A descriptive statistical analysis was carried out to describe the data. The results revealed a complex profile of various sociodemographic & psychosocial parameters, reflecting substantial trends in all of them. These findings illustrate the multidimensional factors that influence juveniles in conflict with law and is compared with respect to global context. Understanding these factors and the role they play will allow stakeholders to build more effective prevention and mitigation methods for these adolescents. Keywords: Juvenile in conflict with law, Psychosocial factors, Delinquent behavior, Profiling
Impact of Personal and Family Income on unlawful homicides: A Comparison between Murderers and Non-criminals
by Dr. Ranjay Kumar
Income is a prominent social determinant that influences human thoughts, behaviours, and actions, shaping the quality of personal and social life. Income ensures access to resources critical for maintaining well-being and contributes to the social and economic empowerment of an individual. The impact of income on violent crimes is a critical area of study in forensic psychology and criminology. This study explores the role of personal and family income in unlawful homicides. The research compares the personal and family income of 100 male subjects, 50 convicted murderers from Central Jail, Beur, Patna, Bihar and 50 non-criminals from various districts in Bihar. Participants, aged 20–60 years, were Hindu males with at least primary-level education, selected through purposive sampling. Data collection involved a self-prepared Personal Data Schedule (PDS), with analysis conducted using the t-test and Chi-square test. The results revealed significant differences in both personal and family income between the two groups. Convicted murderers and their family predominantly belonged to the lowest income category, potentially exacerbating stress, frustration, and poor decision-making linked to homicidal offenses. In contrast, non-criminals and their family were more likely to have higher income levels, which fostered better daily life management, stronger coping mechanisms, and reduced criminal tendencies. The findings underscore the interplay between personal and family income and violent crimes, emphasizing the need for holistic interventions to address income disparities, improve public health, and reduce crime. Keywords: Income, Unlawful Homicides, Murderers, Non-Criminals