A quantitative PCR assay for the assessment of DNA degradation in forensic samples

A multiplex quantitative PCR assay has been designed to amplify target sequences of different length, which allows for the assessment of DNA degradation in samples of forensic interest. The targets were chosen to provide quantification and fragment length information relevant to the STR amplification targets commonly used for forensic genotyping. The longer target (nuTH01, 170-190 bp) spans the TH01 STR locus. Although not one of the longest loci used for STR genotyping, it was chosen as a good compromise given the target length limitations on qPCR efficiency with TaqMan detection. The shorter target (nuCSF, 67 bp) was designed in the upstream flanking region of the CSF1PO STR locus. In addition to these human nuclear targets, the assay includes an internal PCR control target sequence to allow for an assessment of PCR inhibition. The assay was rigorously tested on samples with varying amounts of degradation, and the ratio of nuCSF:nuTH01 quantifications was shown to provide a good estimation of the degree of degradation present in a sample. This estimate, along with the internal control for PCR inhibition, provides a valuable tool for post-extraction sample assessment.     

Evaluating the forensic informativeness of mtDNA haplogroup H sub-typing on a Eurasian scale

The impact of phylogeographic information on mtDNA forensics has been limited to the quality control of published sequences and databases. In this work we use the information already available on Eurasian mtDNA phylogeography to guide the choice of coding-region SNPs for haplogroup H. This sub-typing is particularly important in forensics since, even when sequencing both HVRI and HVRII, the discriminating power is low in some Eurasian populations. We show that a small set (eight) of coding-region SNPs resolves a substantial proportion of the identical haplotypes, as defined by control-region variation alone. Moreover, this SNP set, while substantially increasing the discriminating efficiency in most Eurasian populations by roughly equal amounts, discloses population-specific profiles.     

Evaluation of a halfway house for women

A halfway house for female offenders in Long Beach, California was evaluated by comparing the number and severity of offenses of graduates of the house to those of a matched group of women released in the same area and period. The groups had comparable criminal histories. A U.S. Bureau of Prisons index was used to classify the severity of offenses. Results indicated that the halfway house reduced both the number and severity of offenses. This conclusion withstood a review of the threats to validity. The policy implications of the finding are discussed.     

Aberrent group B reactions detected in mixtures of semen and vaginal secretions possibly due to acquired B

Routine ABO grouping tests performed on vaginal swabs from a group O female showed the presence of blood group B activity as well as the expected A and H activity after intercourse with her group A partner. The source of the B activity was readily detectable using the Laboratory's routine elution test, but it was not detectable when a monoclonal anti-B was used and detection by the inhibition technique was possible only with a selected antiserum. A possible explanation of the reactions observed is that the acquired B is capable of reacting with only a portion of the antibodies present in normal polyclonal anti-B sera.     

A plan analysis of pedophile sexual abusers' motivations for treatment: a qualitative pilot study

Many authors have suggested adapting treatment programs to the specific needs of sexual abusers. However, little research has been conducted to understand what these patients seek in therapy or what elements play a key role in keeping them in treatment. In this pilot study, fifteen (N=15) pedophile sexual abusers from La Macaza clinic for sexual abusers were interviewed. Plan analysis was used to investigate the most prevalent components involved in staying in or leaving therapy. Results suggest that many components involved in the plans leading to doing and to avoiding treatment were similar. Differences were found in regards to the outcome of confrontations with the therapists, a tendency to isolate and overcomply, guilt related to the abuse, a need for a stable environment, and a need to be accepted. These results are discussed along with possible ways to improve the patients' involvement in treatment.