NFSU Journal of Forensic Science

Herein, we report the synthesis of magnetic cobalt ferrite (CFO) nanoparticles, to study its application for the development of latent fingerprints using rapid and cost-effective combustion method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used for the structural characterization, which confirmed the pure phase of synthesized nanoparticles. The CFO nanoparticles were used to develop latent fingerprints over a non-porous surface. The developed fingerprints were observed under a stereomicroscope and a large number of pores could be identified and differentiated as open or closed pores, and the average pore size has been calculated. All the obtained results were compared to the results obtained using commercial black magnetic latent fingerprint powder, which established the superiority of synthesized CFO nanoparticles. Current study may pave the path for the development of a potential black magnetic fingerprint powder, which can effectively reveal the fine features of latent fingerprints after development.

Semiconductor oxides are playing an important role in the advancing modern forensic science, offering sensitive, selective, and rapid analyses. At nanoscale, they have a high surface area, unique chemical and physical properties, versatility, tunable optical, electrical, and magnetic characteristics. Applying different characterization techniques with semiconductor oxides on the nano-forensic evidences can provide the accurate and efficient results. Key semiconductor oxides such as ZnO, TiO2, CuO, or Iron oxides can be used in drugs/toxic powder detection, gun powder/explosive residue analyses, fingerprint detection, and other forensic applications as photocatalysis, artificial olfactory system, powder suspension, auxiliary agent, colorimetric, gas, and electrochemical sensing.

Background: Taking account from the National Crime Records Bureau there were 31,677 cases of sexual assault registered in the single year 2021, which implies roughly 80 cases daily. To address such serious crimes forensic professionals must be aware and focus on traditional pieces of evidence such as DNA, Seminal Stains, bitemarks or struggle marks, and other confirming shreds of evidence. Bite mark analysis is a vital component of forensic investigations, offering a distinct form of evidence in criminal proceedings. By leveraging the uniqueness of dental structures, bite marks can contribute significantly to personal identification and the resolution of crimes involving assault, sexual offenses, and homicide. Main Body: We portrayed the collection, packaging, and preservation methods of bitemark, and included the DNA extraction from saliva. Structural distinctive features which are used to differentiate human dentition from animal dentition. Accidental and intentional crimes then easily distinguished. In the case of wildlife forensics also bitemarks have wide scope and importance for determination of species and tagging them with their habitat. Short Conclusion: In recent times with rapid evolution in computational capabilities, we are able to use complex applications of computer science for the purpose of three-dimensional comparison of bitemarks, use of digital image processing and image modifications. the statement on which most of us will agree is Bite marks are always being interest of investigators in cases of sexual assault and child abuse.