NCJ Number
238014
Journal
Forensic Magazine Volume: 9 Issue: 1 Dated: February/March 2012 Pages: 1-52
Editor(s)
Rebecca Waters
Date Published
March 2012
Length
52 pages
Annotation
The 10 articles address training of trace-evidence examiners, a DNA database of illegal immigrants, demeanor credibility, blood alcohol analysis, computerized skull reconstruction, handling laboratory hazardous wastes, forensic facility issues, Windows 7 registry forensics, and efficient use of CSI (crime-scene investigation) budgets.
Abstract
"Delivering Blended Learning to Trace Evidence Examiners: Lessons Learned" reviews the experiences of using the blended-learning model - augmenting classroom learning with distance learning from the student's lab-in training trace-evidence examiners. "The DNA Connection: Illegal Immigration" assesses the implementation status of the Federal legislative mandate for the U.S. Justice Department to create a DNA database composed of profiles of individuals in the country illegally. "Stressing Demeanor Credibility: Continued Impacts of Melendez-Diaz for Forensic Scientists" reviews the implications of this 2009 U.S. Supreme Court decision, which requires forensic scientists to personally testify to their research and conclusions so a jury can assess their demeanor while testifying. "High-throughput Blood Alcohol Analysis Determination Using Headspace Gas Chromatography" concludes that combining a gas chromatography instrument with a headspace autosampler is a reliable tool for the analysis of alcohol in blood. "Soil Characteristics That Impact Clandestine Graves" argues that analyzing soil characteristics at a potential grave site can provide information about the evidence within before the digging begins. "Computerized Skull Reconstructions" explains how CT (computed tomography) scans and computer modeling allow for faster facial reconstructions in missing-persons cases. "Wasting Away: Handling Laboratory Hazardous Wastes" reviews Federal regulations for handling hazardous chemical wastes and proposes a model program for laboratory chemical-waste management. "What's Your Problem? A Continuing Dialogue with the Forensic Community" requests the forensic community to share the greatest challenges it faces regarding facility needs. Remaining articles address evidence identification in the Windows 7 registry and how to make the most of a CSI budget.