A review of low template STR analysis in casework using the DNA SenCE post-PCR purification technique

LGC has developed a method for analysing low-level DNA samples called DNA SenCE (Sensitive Capillary Electrophoresis) based on post-PCR treatment of standard 28-cycle SGMplus PCR product and demonstrated to be equally effective at enhancing profiles as 34-cycle PCR. The method has been validated and accredited and used in casework since July 2007. Inherent in the method is the initial generation of a standard 28-cycle SGMplus profile so a direct comparison of standard and DNA SenCE results for all casework is possible. Here we review DNA SenCE casework, reporting the magnitude of peak enhancement and stochastic effects seen in the DNA SenCE profiles.     

INTERNATIONAL ABDUCTION OF CHILDREN

Justice Kay discusses the abduction of children and the application of the Hague Convention from the Australian perspective. The article begins with an outline of the common law and the appropriate legislation. Signatory nations to the Hague Convention are listed and Australian case law reviewed. Statistics are also given regarding children who have been taken to what nations.     

Multiple deaths resulting from shipboard exposure to trichlorotrifluoroethane

During the course of dockside ship maintenance, a compartment was partially flooded with tricholotrifluoroethane gas. One sailor entered the compartment, collapsed, and was then rescued by two other men. All three victims then climbed a 11-m (36-ft) ladder and collapsed. They all experienced a rapid development of cardiac arrest. We report on the pathologic, toxicologic, and pathophysiologic aspects of the incident.     

Liberty: human rights and mental health

In this paper, Lord Phillips reflects on the present state of the law relating to mental health; he considers the place of the common law doctrine of necessity as the basis for the detention of patients; he reviews a number of issues arising from the jurisprudence of the European Court of Human Rights in Strasbourg and a number of recent decisions of the Court of Appeal. Finally, he considers the prospects for change in the law foreshadowed in the Government's White Paper on the Reform of Mental Health Law (2000).