Forensic Biology (2^nd Ed.)

Over the last several years, new research and developments in analysis methods and practice have led to rapid advancements in forensic biology. Identifying critical points of knowledge and new methodological approaches in the field, Forensic Biology, Second Edition focuses on forensic serology and forensic DNA analysis. It provides students and professionals with a scientific grounding in biological evidence?both the techniques used to identify it and the methodology to analyze it.

This second edition:

• Introduces the language of forensic biology, enabling students to become comfortable with usage and terminology



• Provides clear explanations of the principles of forensic identification and analysis of biological evidence



• Explains forensic serology and DNA techniques used in the field and the laboratory



• Discusses the benefits and limitations that apply to various forensic biology techniques



• Includes schematic illustrations to clarify concepts



• Presents three new chapters created for this edition



• Adds more than two hundred new color figures

Covering the full scope of forensic biology, the book uses an accessible, straightforward style designed to enhance students? education and training so they are prepared, both in the laboratory and in the field.

Biological Evidence. Crime Scene Investigation of Biological Evidence. Crime Scene Bloodstain Pattern Analysis. Forensic Biology: A Subdiscipline of Forensic Science. Sources of Biological Evidence. Basic Techniques in Forensic Biology. Nucleic Acid Extraction. DNA Quantitation. Amplification by Polymerase Chain Reaction. DNA Electrophoresis. Detection Methods. Serology Concepts. Serology Techniques: Past, Current, and Future. Identification of Biological Evidence. Identification of Blood. Species Identification. Identification of Semen. Identification of Saliva. Identification of Vaginal Secretions and Menstrual Blood. Identification of Urine, Sweat, Fecal Matter, and Vomitus. Individualization of Biological Evidence. Blood Group Typing and Protein Profiling. Variable Number Tandem Repeat Profiling. Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat Profiling. Sex Chromosome Haplotyping and Gender Identification. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Profiling. Mitochondrial DNA Profiling. Forensic Issues. Forensic DNA Databases: Tools for Crime Investigations. Evaluation of the Strength of Forensic DNA Profiling Results. Quality Assurance and Quality Control.