Use of DNA Technology in Forensic Dentistry

Total Page:16

File Type:pdf, Size:1020Kb

Use of DNA Technology in Forensic Dentistry orensi f F c R o e l s a e n r a r u c Shambulingappa et al., J Forensic Res 2012, 3:7 o h J Journal of Forensic Research DOI: 10.4172/2157-7145.1000155 ISSN: 2157-7145 Review Article Open Access Use of DNA Technology in Forensic Dentistry Shambulingappa P, Soheyl S, Rajesh Gupta*, Simranpreet Kaur, Amit Aggarwal, Ravinder Singh and Deepak Gupta Department of oral medicine and radiology, M.M. College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, Haryana, India Abstract The discovery of DNA plays vital role in Human identification is one of the major fields of study and research in forensic science. This discovery was the basis for the development of techniques that allow characterizing each person’s individuality based on the DNA sequence. Individual identification of ancient human remains the most fundamental requisites for studies of paleo-population genetics, including kinship among ancient people, intra- and inter population structures in ancient times, and the origin of human populations. However, knowledge of these subjects has been based mainly on circumstantial archaeological evidence for kinship and intra population structure and on genetic studies of modern human populations. Tooth and several biological materials such as bone tissue, hair bulb, saliva, blood and other body tissues may be employed for isolation of DNA and accomplishment of laboratory tests for human identification. Here we describe individual identification of ancient humans by using short-nucleotide tandem repeats and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) extracted from a tooth as genetic markers. The application of this approach to kinship analysis shows clearly the presence or absence of kinship among the ancient remains examined. Keywords: Forensic science; Human tooth; mtDNA; Kinship makes an overview of the evolution of this technology in the last years, highlighting the importance of molecular biology in cases of forensic Introduction investigation. Forensic Dentistry is the specialty with the goal of investigating Literature Review psychological, physical, chemical and biological phenomena that can reach human beings ( alive, dead or body fragments), comprehending Background aspects of human identification; criminal, civil, labor and administrative Until the 1980’s, the science of identification of criminal cases was forensic investigation; forensic tanatology; legal documents; forensic based only on serological analyses of protein polymorphism, blood traumatology; image (x-ray, tomography) examinations; saliva analysis; groups and some genetic markers. Forensic examination of biological and other aspects involving a multidisciplinary team [1]. samples started in the beginning of the twentieth century by application Human identification is one of the major fields of study and of the ABO blood group system in evidences related to crimes or research in forensic science because it deals with the human body and human identification. The proofs of individual identification by use of aims at establishing human identity. The revolution caused in 1953 blood group testing gained legal value in the German courts in 1920, by Watson and Crick [2], who discovered the double-helix structure being legally accepted in the United States only in 1935. In Brazil, these of DNA, which is responsible for the genetic inheritance of human exams were given legal value with the first paternity investigation in beings, led to important changes in nearly all fields of science. This 1948. These systems have been replaced in most centers and are rarely discovery was the basis for the development of techniques that allow employed in present days [5]. characterizing each person’s individuality based on the DNA sequence. Another important phase in the development of forensic sciences Three decades later, Jeffreys et al. [3], created radioactive molecular directed at human identification started with the publication of a study probes that could recognize highly variable regions of DNA and thus by Jeffreys et al. [3], who investigated radioactive molecular probes determine the specific patterns of each individual, which were named that could recognize certain highly sensitive regions of DNA (mini DNA fingerprints. The currently performed DNA profile tests are satellites in human genome) that produced a type of DNA “fingerprint”. totally reliable, being accepted as legal proofs in courts, such as for Molecular typing of the genetic material was officially employed investigation of paternity and human identification [4]. for the first time in England by the same author for resolution of an Several biological materials may be employed for isolation of DNA immigration problem. and accomplishment of laboratory tests for human identification, The first polymorphic locus in the human genome was discovered including bone tissue, hair bulb, biopsy sample, saliva, blood and other body tissues. It is possible to obtain DNA from virtually all human body tissues, only with variations in the quantity and quality *Corresponding author: Rajesh gupta, Department of oral medicine and of the DNA extracted from each tissue. The established importance radiology, M.M College of Dental Sciences and Research, Mullana, Ambala, of Forensic Dentistry for human identification, mainly when there is Haryana, India, 133203, Tel: +91-9034808508; E-mail: [email protected] little remaining material to perform such identification (e.g. in fires, Received April 12, 2012; Accepted June 12, 2012; Published June 14, 2012 explosions, decomposing bodies), has led dentists working with Citation: Shambulingappa P, Soheyl S, Rajesh G, Kaur S, Aggarwal A, et al. forensic investigation to become more familiar with the new molecular (2012) Use of DNA Technology in Forensic Dentistry. J Forensic Res 3:155. biology technologies. doi:10.4172/2157-7145.1000155 Therefore, this article presents a literature review referring to the Copyright: © 2012 Shambulingappa P, et al. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which recent Brazilian works and some international studies on Forensic permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided Dentistry that used DNA analysis for human identification, and the original author and source are credited. J Forensic Res ISSN: 2157-7145 JFR, an open access journal Volume 3 • Issue 7 • 1000155 Citation: Shambulingappa P, Soheyl S, Rajesh G, Kaur S, Aggarwal A, et al. (2012) Use of DNA Technology in Forensic Dentistry. J Forensic Res 3:155. doi:10.4172/2157-7145.1000155 Page 2 of 5 by Wyman and White [6], using a DNA probe In this way, more than forensic dentistry, DNA profiling and fingerprinting. Even though, 99% 15 different sizes could be observed in a small sample of subjects. of the bodies were identified using dental records or fingerprints and These repeated sequences are spread throughout the human genome only 1% of forensic identification was made by DNA profiling [14,15]. and present sufficient variety to be used in human identification The main exogenous factors that may limit the retrieval of tests. These hypervariable loci were constituted by tandem repeat information from body remnants and restrict the human identification of oligonucleotides sequences (from 2 to 80 base pairs). Depending procedure are the elements present or associated with fire, such as on their size, these loci were nominated as VNTR (variable number flames, heat and explosions [16,17]. In this sense, the teeth play an of tandem repeat) or minisatellites, 9 to 80 bp, and STR (short important role in identification and criminology, due to the high tandem repeats) or microsatellites, 2 to 5 bp [7]. Initially, the forensic uniqueness of dental characteristics in addition to the relatively high community used VNTR testing for body identification and paternity degree of physical and chemical resistance of the dental structure [15]. tests. However, as this method requires a large amount of material and has low quality results, several cases could not be solved, especially Due to their capacity of enduring environmental changes, the teeth when only little biological material samples were collected in a represent an excellent source of DNA because this biological material crime scene investigation. The introduction of the polymerase chain may provide the necessary relation for identification of an individual in reaction (PCR) technique, which makes possible the amplification of case of failure of conventional methods for dental identification [18]. small DNA samples, widened the scopes in Forensic Genetics [8]. In addition, newer DNA tools, including mitochondrial DNA and SNP Genomic and mitochondrial DNA in forensic dentistry (single nucleotide polymorphism replacements, insertions or deletions The genomic DNA is found in the nucleus of each cell in the human that occur at single positions in the human genome), might be used body and represents a DNA source for most forensic applications. when STR typing fails to yield a result or when only a partial profile is The teeth are an excellent source of genomic DNA because PCR obtained due to the size and conditions of the sample [9]. Poor quality analysis allow comparing the collected postmortem samples to known DNA can be found, for example, in mass disaster, such as the World antemortem samples or parental DNA [18,19]. Mitochondrial DNA is Trade Center attacks, airplane crashes, tsunamis and decomposing another type of material that can be used for body identification. Its
Recommended publications
  • Dental DNA Fingerprinting in Identification of Human Remains
    REVIEW ARTICLE Dental DNA fingerprinting in identification of human remains Girish KL, Farzan S Rahman, Shoaib R Tippu1 Departments of Oral Pathology & Microbiology and 1Oral & Abstract Maxillofacial Surgery, Jaipur Dental College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, The recent advances in molecular biology have revolutionized all aspects of dentistry. India DNA, the language of life yields information beyond our imagination, both in health or disease. DNA fingerprinting is a tool used to unravel all the mysteries associated with the oral cavity and its manifestations during diseased conditions. It is being increasingly used in analyzing various scenarios related to forensic science. The technical advances in molecular biology have propelled the analysis of the DNA into routine usage in crime laboratories for rapid and early diagnosis. DNA is an excellent means for identification Address for correspondence: of unidentified human remains. As dental pulp is surrounded by dentin and enamel, Dr. Girish KL, which forms dental armor, it offers the best source of DNA for reliable genetic type in Department of Oral Pathology & forensic science. This paper summarizes the recent literature on use of this technique Microbiology, Jaipur Dental College, Dhand, Thesil-Amer, in identification of unidentified human remains. NH. 8, Jaipur-302 101, Rajasthan, India. Key words: DNA analysis, DNA profiling, forensic odontology E-mail: [email protected] Introduction DNA since it is a sealed box preserving DNA from extreme environmental conditions, except its apical entrance. This he realization that DNA lies behind all the cell’s has prompted the investigation of various human tissues Tactivities led to the development of molecular biology. as potential source of genetic evidentiary material.
    [Show full text]
  • Making a Place for Touch DNA in Post-Conviction DNA Testing Statutes, 62 Cath
    Catholic University Law Review Volume 62 Issue 3 Spring 2013 Article 7 2013 Can’t Touch This? Making a Place for Touch DNA in Post- Conviction DNA Testing Statutes Victoria Kawecki Follow this and additional works at: https://scholarship.law.edu/lawreview Part of the Criminal Procedure Commons, and the Evidence Commons Recommended Citation Victoria Kawecki, Can’t Touch This? Making a Place for Touch DNA in Post-Conviction DNA Testing Statutes, 62 Cath. U. L. Rev. 821 (2013). Available at: https://scholarship.law.edu/lawreview/vol62/iss3/7 This Comments is brought to you for free and open access by CUA Law Scholarship Repository. It has been accepted for inclusion in Catholic University Law Review by an authorized editor of CUA Law Scholarship Repository. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Can’t Touch This? Making a Place for Touch DNA in Post-Conviction DNA Testing Statutes Cover Page Footnote J.D. Candidate, May 2014, The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law; B.A., 2011, Gettysburg College. The author wishes to thank John Sharifi for his exceptional and invaluable insight, guidance, dedication, tenacity, and inspiration throughout this process. She would also like to thank her colleagues on the Catholic University Law Review for their work on this Comment, and her legal writing professors, who taught her to question what she thinks she may know and to always lead with her conclusion. This comments is available in Catholic University Law Review: https://scholarship.law.edu/lawreview/vol62/iss3/7 CAN’T TOUCH THIS? MAKING A PLACE FOR TOUCH DNA IN POST-CONVICTION DNA TESTING STATUTES Victoria Kawecki+ DNA testing is to justice what the telescope is for the stars: not a lesson in biochemistry, not a display of the wonders of magnifying optical glass, but a way to see things as they really are.
    [Show full text]
  • Discovery for Complex DNA Cases Carrie Wood, Appellate Attorney, Hamilton County, Public Defender's Office
    Discovery for complex DNA cases Carrie Wood, Appellate Attorney, Hamilton County, Public Defender’s Office (Cincinnati, OH) Crossing the State’s Expert in Complex DNA cases (mixtures, drop out and inconclusive results) Carrie Wood (Cincinnati, OH) and Nathan Adams (Fairborn, OH) Pre-trial Litigation: Discovery, Admissibility Challenges, and Practice Tips Carrie Wood NACDL Pennsylvania Training Conference, February 23, 2018 – 90 Minutes This presentation will address how a lawyer obtains and identifies the appropriate discovery for each of the areas outlined by Nathan Adams in his talk. This talk will assist attendees to use discovery to identify potential unfounded statements and/or unreliable technology, as well as flag areas are where an expert for the State may oversimplify, misapply, or mischaracterize based on the discovery materials and investigation. Finally, for each identified area of concern, the talk will present pre-trial litigation strategy, law, and motions as well as practice points for cross- examination. 1. Exam/inspection for samples of interest (including serology) 2. Extraction 3. Quantification/quantitation 4. Amplification (PCR) 5. CE injection (genetic analyzer) 6. Analysis by human 7. Analysis by probabilistic genotyping software (maybe) Getting Started • Discovery: One of the most critical steps in successfully challenging scientific evidence and in particular DNA evidence is obtaining the necessary discovery. It is impossible to evaluate the DNA evidence or assess the strength of it without obtaining discovery.
    [Show full text]
  • Role of Orthodontics in Forensic Odontology- a Social Responsibility Dentistry Section
    DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2016/15798.7633 Review Article Role of Orthodontics in Forensic Odontology- A Social Responsibility Dentistry Section GIRIDHAR REDDY1, VINAY P REDDY2, MEENAKSHI SHARMA3, MONIKA AGGARWAL4 ABSTRACT Orthodontics like any other specialty has much to offer law enforcement in the detection and solution of crime or in civil proceedings. Forensic odontology often requires an interdisciplinary approach towards dentistry for the purpose of proper diagnosis of cases. In cases where the forensic odontologist has to establish a person’s identity, an orthodontist can be of great help at times. Teeth, with their anatomic/physiologic variations and therapy such as orthodontic treatment, restorations and prosthesis may record information that remains throughout life and beyond. The teeth may also be used as weapons for defense or offense and as such may leave information about the identity of the biter at the time of crime. Forensic odontology also plays an important role in the recognition of crime and abuse among people of all ages. Orthodontists like all other dental professionals can play a major role by maintaining proper dental records and thus providing important or vital information or clues to the legal authorities in order to help them in their search. Keywords: Bite marks, Cephalometric software, Forensic science, Orthodontic scars INTRODUCTION cases, virtually a certain identification tool. Even when data are Forensic science is the application of a broad spectrum of sciences sparse, it may result in recognized identification that can later be used in order to answer questions of interest to a legal system confirmed by more scientific techniques such as the DNA samping related to crime or civil action [1,2].
    [Show full text]
  • Csi: Forensic Challenge
    ACTIVITY OPTION CSI: FORENSIC CHALLENGE Step into the world of crime scene investigation to unravel a true crime using some of the latest forensic detective technology. Teams are presented with the facts and visual evidence of a real life crime. Their challenge, using a real process of investigation, is to solve the mystery and identify the murderer and motive. Our head of investigation will teach your team how to properly examine a simulated crime scene. Your team will also use their observational skills to create a composite sketch of a suspect using the same software used by police agencies around the world. They will then implicate the suspect after carrying out a variety of forensic techniques including simulated blood typing, blood spatter analysis, fingerprint analysis, glass analysis, luminol detection of simulated blood and DNA analysis. At the start of the event each team will be given their own "Crime File", which contains everything they need to know about the investigation. Each person is also given their own examination kit, comprising of a one piece white body suit, masks and gloves. After kitting up it is time for the RUNNING TIME: The ideal length of time for this activity is 2-3 investigation to commence! Your task is to investigate the crime, using hours. forensics to prove it. Participants will need to use a variety of forensic techniques to solve the MIN/MAX GROUP SIZE: Suitable for 15-150 participants. murder, including ballistics, blood spatter pattern analysis, fingerprint dusting, forensic dentistry, hair and fibre, photofit, and DNA. PEOPLE PER TEAM: We would recommend 8-10 participants per team.
    [Show full text]
  • Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking
    Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking ROD GEHL AND DARRYL PLECAS JUSTICE INSTITUTE OF BRITISH COLUMBIA NEW WESTMINSTER, BC Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking by Rod Gehl is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted. Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking by Rod Gehl and Darryl Plecas is, unless otherwise noted, released under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY-NC) license. This means you are free to copy, retain (keep), reuse, redistribute, remix, and revise (adapt or modify) this textbook but not for commercial purposes. Under this license, anyone who revises this textbook (in whole or in part), remixes portions of this textbook with other material, or redistributes a portion of this textbook, may do so without gaining the author’s permission providing they properly attribute the textbook or portions of the textbook to the author as follows: Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking by Rod Gehl and Darryl Plecas is used under a CC BY-NC 4.0 International license. Additionally, if you redistribute this textbook (in whole or in part) you must retain the below statement, Download this book for free at https://pressbooks.bccampus.ca/criminalinvestigation/ as follows: 1. digital format: on every electronic page 2. print format: on at least one page near the front of the book To cite this textbook using APA, for example, follow this format: Gehl, Rod & Plecas, Darryl. (2016). Introduction to Criminal Investigation: Processes, Practices and Thinking.
    [Show full text]
  • An Investigation Into the Foundational Principles of Forensic Science
    Department of Chemistry An Investigation into the Foundational Principles of Forensic Science Max Michael Houck This thesis is presented for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Of Curtin University of Technology February, 2010 i Declaration: To the best of my knowledge and belief this thesis contains no material previously published by any other person except where due acknowledgment has been made. This thesis contains no material which has been accepted for the award of any other degree or diploma in any university. Signature: __________________________________ Date: _________________ ii Abstract This thesis lays the groundwork for a philosophy of forensic science. Forensic science is a historical science, much like archaeology and geology, which operates by the analysis and understanding of the physical remnants of past criminal activity. Native and non-native principles guide forensic science’s operation, application, and interpretations. The production history of mass-produced goods is embedded in the finished product, called the supply chain. The supply chain solidifies much of the specificity and resolution of the evidentiary significance of that product. Forensic science has not had an over-arching view of this production history integrated into its methods or instruction. This thesis offers provenance as the dominant factor for much of the inherent significance of mass-produced goods that become evidence. iii Presentations and Publications Some ideas and concepts in this thesis appeared in the following presentations and publications: “Forensic Science is History,” 2004 Combined Meeting of the Southern, Midwestern, Mid Atlantic Associations of Forensic Scientists and the Canadian Society of Forensic Scientists, Orlando, FL, September. “Crime Scene Investigation,” NASA Goddard Engineering Colloquium, Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, MD, November 2005 “A supply chain approach to evidentiary significance,” 2008 Australia New Zealand Forensic Science Society, Melbourne.
    [Show full text]
  • BPA Guidelines for Report Writing in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis
    This document has been accepted by the Academy Standards Board (ASB) for development as an American National Standard (ANS). For information about ASB and their process please refer to asb.aafs.org. This document is being made available at this stage of the process so that the forensic science community and interested stakeholders can be more fully aware of the efforts and work products of the Organization of Scientific Area Committees for Forensic Science (OSAC). The documents were prepared with input from OSAC Legal Resource Committee, Quality Infrastructure Committee, and Human Factors Committees, as well as the relevant Scientific Area Committee. The content of the documents listed below is subject to change during the standards development process within ASB, and may not represent the contents of the final published standard. All stakeholder groups or individuals, are strongly encouraged to submit technical comments on this draft document during the ASB’s open comment period. Technical comments will not be accepted if submitted to the OSAC Scientific Area Committee or Subcommittees. Guidelines for Report Writing in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis DRAFT DRAFT DOCUMENT ASB Numerical Designation Guidelines for Report Writing in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis Keywords: Report, case information, methods, limitations, assumptions, observations, analysis, conclusions, review The purpose of this document is to provide a guide for the report content and issuance of Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA) reports. It is not intended to set forth a specific format for report writing. DRAFT 1 Foreword This document provides guidelines for report writing in Bloodstain Pattern Analysis (BPA). In addition, it provides guidance regarding statements to be avoided in the report.
    [Show full text]
  • Bodies of Evidence Reconstructing History Through Skeletal Analysis 1St Edition Ebook, Epub
    BODIES OF EVIDENCE RECONSTRUCTING HISTORY THROUGH SKELETAL ANALYSIS 1ST EDITION PDF, EPUB, EBOOK Grauer | 9780471042792 | | | | | Bodies of Evidence Reconstructing History through Skeletal Analysis 1st edition PDF Book Forensic Outreach. Forensic anthropology is the application of the anatomical science of anthropology and its various subfields, including forensic archaeology and forensic taphonomy , [1] in a legal setting. In addition to revealing the age, sex, size, stature, health, and ethnic population of the decedent, an examination of the skeleton may reveal evidence concerning pathology and any antemortem before death , perimortem at the time of death , or postmortem after death trauma. September Investigations often begin with a ground search team using cadaver dogs or a low-flying plane to locate a missing body or skeleton. It is also recommended that individuals looking to pursue a forensic anthropology profession get experience in dissection usually through a gross anatomy class as well as useful internships with investigative agencies or practicing anthropologists. Permissions Request permission to reuse content from this site. Assessment of the Reliability of Facial Reconstruction. In , the second of the soldiers' remains discovered at Avion , France were identified through a combination of 3-D printing software, reconstructive sculpture and use of isotopic analysis of bone. In cases like these, forensic archaeologists must practice caution and recognize the implications behind their work and the information they uncover. Practical Considerations. Taylor of Austin, Texas during the s. Historical Archaeology. American Anthropologist. Retrieved 10 September Hindustan Times. Wikimedia Commons has media related to Forensic facial reconstruction. The capability to uncover information about victims of war crimes or homicide may present a conflict in cases that involve competing interests.
    [Show full text]
  • Rugoscopy: a Fingerprint of Oral Cavity in Forensic Dentistry
    Review Article Indian Journal of Forensic Odontology Volume 12 Number 1, January - June 2019 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijfo.0974.505X.12119.4 Rugoscopy: A Fingerprint of Oral Cavity in Forensic Dentistry Mounabati Mohapatra1, Priyanka Sarangi2, Sukanta Satapathy3 1Professor HOD, Dental Surgery, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Bhubaneswar, Odisha 751019, India. 2Dental Surgeon, Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, SCB Dental College and Hospital, Cuttack, Odisha 753001, India. 3Associate Professor, Department of Dentistry, Balasore Medical College, Balasore, Odisha 756019, India. How to cite this article: Mounabati Mohapatra, Priyanka Sarangi and Sukanta Satapathy. Rugoscopy: A Fingerprint of Oral Cavity in Forensic Dentistry. 2019;12(1):19-21 Abstract It is a well-known fact that the pattern of palatal rugae is very unique, similar to fingerprints. Rugal length and transverse palatal rugal region width advances with age in both male and females. This advancement stops once the somatic growth stops. Also, there appears to be a significant correlation between rugae patterns and ethnicity. Palatal rugae pattern of an individual may be considered as a useful adjunct in the field of forensic dentistry for identification purposes. Hence, this review article aims at providing a detail insight into the role of palatal rugae in the field of forensic dentistry. Keywords: Palatal rugae, Forensic dentistry. Introduction anterior third of the palate”. They are also called “plica palatinae” or “rugae palatine” [4]. Con rming a person's indentity can be a typically The earliest reference to rugae was in anatomy complicated procedure, one of the main standpoints book by Winslow in 1732 and was rst illustrated of the forensic sciences.
    [Show full text]
  • About the AAFS
    American Academy of Forensic Sciences 410 North 21st Street Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904 Phone: (719) 636-1100 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aafs.org @ AAFS Publication 20-2 Copyright © 2020 American Academy of Forensic Sciences Printed in the United States of America Publication Printers, Inc., Denver, CO Typography by Kathy Howard Cover Art by My Creative Condition, Colorado Springs, CO WELCOME LETTER Dear Attendees, It is my high honor and distinct privilege to welcome you to the 72nd AAFS Annual Scientific Meeting in Anaheim, California. I would like to thank the AAFS staff, the many volunteers, and everyone else who have worked together to create an excellent program for this meeting with the theme Crossing Borders. You will have many opportunities to meet your colleagues and discuss new challenges in the field. There are many workshops and special sessions that will be presented. The Interdisciplinary and Plenary Sessions will provide different views in forensic science—past, present, and future. The Young Forensic Scientists Forum will celebrate its 25th Anniversary and is conducting a workshop related to the meeting theme. More than 1,000 presentations are scheduled that will provide you with more insight into the developments in forensic science. The exhibit hall, always interesting to explore, is where you will see the latest forensic science equipment, technology, and literature. The theme Crossing Borders was chosen by me and my colleagues at the Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI). We see many definitions of crossing borders in forensic science today. For the 2020 meeting, six words starting with the letters “IN” are included in the theme.
    [Show full text]
  • Guide to NIST
    FOREWORD Welcome to the new NIST! Over the next few years, NIST plans to use requested funding increases to transform Since 1988 and passage of the Omnibus itself from primarily a measurement labora- Trade and Competitiveness Act, the National tory program with three relatively small Institute of Standards and Technology extramural programs to a full-service tech- (NIST) has been expanding its outreach nology development, funding, extension, efforts to industry. These have included and quality improvement partner for U.S. establishment of three relatively new extra- industry. To help get that job done, we have mural programs—the Advanced Technol- begun a major construction and renovation ogy' Program, providing direct grants to program to bring the Institute's laboratory industrv' for high-risk technolog}' develop- facilities up to the needs of the 21st century ment; the Manufacturing Extension Partner- and beyond. ship, a grassroots technolog)' extension service; and the Malcolm Baldrige National You'll see the beginnings of this transfor- Qualit}' Award. The Institute also has sub- mation within this guide. We've included stantially increased the number of coopera- expanded descriptions of NIST extramural tive programs between industry' scientists programs, more comprehensive coverage of and engineers and NIST laboratory NIST laboratory projects and facilities, and researchers. more detailed guidance on the many differ- ent ways—both formal and informal—that Now we're gearing up for even bigger industrial and other organizations can work changes. The Clinton Administration has cooperatively with NIST. Also for the first made improved development, commerciali- time, the guide includes email addresses for zation, and adoption of new technology' by most NIST research contacts listed and infor- U.S.
    [Show full text]