The prevalence of mixed DNA profiles on fingernail swabs

Dowlman, E. A., Martin, N. C., Foy, M. J., Lochner, T. and Neocleous, T. (2010) The prevalence of mixed DNA profiles on fingernail swabs. Science and Justice, 50(2), pp. 64-71. (doi: 10.1016/j.scijus.2009.03.005)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scijus.2009.03.005

Abstract

There is a general acceptance that cellular material will transfer from one person to another person's fingernails through everyday contact. However, the level or degree of contact required to transfer sufficient cellular material in order to obtain a DNA profile is not known. This study examined swabs from the fingernails of 40 volunteers and compared the DNA profiles obtained to the daily activities of that individual. The majority (78%) of high level profiles obtained were associated with recent intimate contact. However, high level profiles were also obtained from the fingernails of individuals who shared accommodation with their partner, flatmates and/or children. Low level profiles and single profiles were associated with all levels of contact. (C) 2009 Forensic Science Society. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved

Item Type:Articles
Keywords:Children CLIPPINGS DEBRIS DNA DNA profiling Fingernail FORENSIC CASEWORK forensic science Mixtures Swabs
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Neocleous, Dr Tereza
Authors: Dowlman, E. A., Martin, N. C., Foy, M. J., Lochner, T., and Neocleous, T.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Mathematics and Statistics > Statistics
Journal Name:Science and Justice
ISSN:1355-0306

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