Chap8 PDF
Chap8 PDF
Chap8 PDF
A Learning Module in
FORENSIC CHEMISTRY
AND TOXICOLOGY
Prepare by: Mark Gideon M. Wallis, RMT
https://www.waynesburg.edu/
Frontiersin.org
Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you
are doing. - Pele
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TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. 3
Study Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Rubrics for Grading of Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter I. Brief History of Forensic Chemistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Chapter II. Introduction to Forensic Chemistry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Activity No. 1 Materials and Glass wares in Forensic Toxicology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Activity No. 2 Instrumentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Activity No. 3 Laboratory Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Chapter III. Blood and Blood stains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Activity No. 4 Blood Collection (Venipuncture) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Activity No. 5 Preliminary test for Blood (ABO blood typing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Activity No. 6 Microscopic Examination for blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Activity No. 7 Microchemical Examination for blood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Chapter IV. Seminal Fluid Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Activity No. 8 Microchemical Examination if Seminal Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Chapter V. Hair Analysis in Forensics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Activity No. 9 Forensic Examination of Hair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Chapter VI. Cordage and Fiber Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Activity No. 10 Microchemical Examination of Fiber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Chapter VII. Casting and Moulage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Activity No. 11 Casting and Moulage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Chapter VIII. Gunshot Residue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Activity No. 12 Microscopic and Chemical exam of Gun powder residue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Chapter IX. Glass and Glass Fracture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Activity No. 13 Reconstructing a Glass Fracture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Chapter X. DNA Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Chapter XI. Forensic Toxicology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Activity No. 14 Isolation and Identification of Poison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Chapter XII. Drugs of Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Activity No. 15 Microscopic Examination of Marijuana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Activity No. 16 Microscopic Examination of Shabu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Activity No. 17 Drug Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Activity No. 18 Microscopic Examination of Barbiturates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
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Introduction
I. Course Code and Title: FORCHM2 (Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology)
Course Description and Information: This is a 5-unit course with 3 units lecture and 2 units laboratory.
Forensic Chemistry deals with application of chemical principles in the solution of problems that arise in
connection with the administration of justice. It is chemistry applied in the elucidation of legal problems.
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- Wear appropriate clothing and set your gadget in an appropriate area. You may be
asked to turn on your video/camera at any time during the lecture.
- Log in using your UB gmail account. Unidentified names like nicknames, phone
models, etc. will not be allowed in the video conference.
- Mute your microphone as soon as you log in to the platform to avoid any excess
background noise. Unmute your microphone when instructed to do so.
- Respect privacy. Do not take a screenshot, picture, snapchat, etc. of your teacher or
fellow students, nor make any unnecessary audio or video recordings.
f.3 Remain focused and engaged. Do not be distracted by your gadget. Keep your
videoconference
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Study Schedule
Note: For offline learners, please feel free to message your instructors through Text
SMS for additional instructions.
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Rubrics
Rubrics for the evaluation of Essay question activities and Questions for research
CRITERIA HIGHEST Outstanding Satisfactory Poor
SCORE
1. Content and Focus 7 Sharp, distinct & Apparent point made No apparent point
-Awareness about the specific topic substantial controlling about a specific topic and no to minimal
-Presence of relevant ideas thru point about a specific or question with evidence of
tacts, examples, details, opinions question or topic with sufficient awareness awareness and
and explanation evident awareness and knowledge. (4 knowledge. (1
and knowledge. (7 points) point)
points)
2. Organization 5 Sophisticated Functional Confused or
-Order developed and sustained with arrangement of arrangement of inconsistent
in the paragraph content with evident content that sustains arrangement no
and/or subtle a logical order w/ logical order or
transition (5 points) some evidence of evidence of
transition (3 points) transition. (1 point)
3. Style and Conventions 3 Good grammar, Sufficient grammar Incorrect grammar
-Choice, use and arrangement of spelling and sentence and minor spelling and major spelling
words formation throughout errors and sentence errors throughout
-Grammar, mechanics, spelling, the paragraph. (3 formation (1 point) the paragraph. (0
usage & sentence formation points) point)
1. General 3 Lines or patterns are There are smudges or stray Smudges or stray
Appearance drawn clearly and not pencil marks but these do marks obscure details
- Neatness and smudged. Minimal not significantly affect the of the illustration.
labelling erasure or stray pencil over-all appearance of the Over-all quality of the
marks. Labelling is illustration. Labels are drawing shows
accurate and complete. included but there are minor minimal effort to
(3 points) problems in the accurate complete careful work.
identification of a part. (2 Important labels are
points) missing. (1 point)
2. Organization and 5 Provides complete and Provides clear illustration Only few important
content well-organized however some details are contents are illustrated
-Illustrations and illustrations (5 points) missing (3-4 points) (1 point)
sequencing
3. Attention to details 2 The illustration is Some minor errors are Major discrepancies
accurately drawn (2 present however these do are very noticeable in
points) not distract the information the illustration. (no
conveyed. (1 point) point)
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CHAPTER I: Brief History of Forensic Chemistry & Toxicology
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1.Identify the important dates involved in the advancement of Forensic Chemistry and Toxicology
2. Identify the important personalities involved in the advancement of Forensic Chemistry and
Toxicology
January 10, 1922 -The head of the Department of Legal Medicine and Ethics became the
Chief of the Medico- Legal Department of the Philippine General
Hospital without pay.
March 10, 1922 -Department of Legal Medicine of the UP as the branch of the
Department of Justice.
-Act No. 2465 of the Philippine
Legislature
October 14, 1924 -Legal Medicine as branch of the DOJ and at the same time an integral
part of UP
December 19, 1937 -Creation of the Division of Investigation under Department of Justice
March 31, 1938 -Department of Legal Medicine was Abolished and was turned over to
the
October 1939 -Philippine constabulary having its own medico-legal office with chemical
laboratory
1945 -Creation of the Criminal Investigation Laboratory with the office of the
Medical Examiner by the Provost Marshal of the US Army
1947 Ballistics, Photography and Fingerprint Record Unit was changed to
Criminal Laboratory Branch of the Constabulary
1951 Medico-legal Section was created under Col. Jesus T. Mendoza
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CHAPTER II: Introduction to Forensic Chemistry
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. Identify the different types and methods of evidence examination
2. Develop an understanding about the relevance of the subject in relation to crime investigation
3. Demonstrate belief on science in systematic process to help students in the easy identification
of the evidence.
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The Six Golden Rules in Forensic Science
1. Go slowly 4. Consult others
2. Be thorough 5. Use imagination
3. Take notes 6. Avoid complicated theories
Types of Examination
1. Qualitative Examination which answers the question “What”?
2. Quantitative Examination which answers the question “How much”?
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e. Direct Evidence - Any fact to which a witness testifies based on what he saw, heard,
smelled, touched or tasted, is direct evidence.
f. Circumstantial Evidence - A kind of evidence which seeks to establish a conclusion by
inferences from proved facts
g. Hearsay Evidence - A statement made by a witness on the authority of another and not
from his own personal knowledge or observation.
7. Witness - A witness in court may be an ordinary or expert witness
a. Ordinary Witness - He must have the organ and power to perceive the perception
gathered by his organ of sense can be imparted to others
b. Expert Witness - The opinion of a witness regarding a question of science, art or trade,
where he is skill therein, may be received in evidence.
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Experiment No. 1
MATERIALS & GLASSWARES IN FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
The forensic toxicology laboratory utilizes not only analytical instruments but pertinent glass
wares, materials and instruments. It is a must for the laboratory personnel to be acquainted and oriented
with the nature and uses of those that are commonly employed in the laboratory as these contribute in
achieving accurate, reliable and acceptable forensic results.
OBJECTIVES: At the end of the activity, the students will be able to:
a. identify the different laboratory instruments and materials essential in the conduct of Forensic
Chemistry Laboratory;
b. determine the different use/s of each material.
MATERIALS
a. Glass Slide and Cover Slip i. Cotton Swab
b. Lancet or Skin Pricker j. Staining Rack
c. Applicator Stick k. Gloves
d. Beaker (100 ml) l. Test Tube & Rack
e. Venipuncture Set m. Mixing Bowl
i. 10 ml Disposable Syringe n. Wire Gauze & Tripod
ii. 13 X 100 Test Tube o. Separatory Funnel
iii. Tourniquet p. Bunsen Burner
iv. Plaster q. Magnifying Glass
v. Tube holder r. Watch Glass
vi. Two-way needle s. Micropipette and tips
vii. Vacutainer Tubes t. Ultra-violet lamp
f. Pasteur Pipette u. Eye protector
g. Viewing Box v. Concavity slide
h. Serological Pipettes w. Surgical blade
- 1 ml Pipette x. Biohazard bag
- 5 ml Pipette y. Clinical Thermometer
- 10 ml Pipette z. Centrifuge & Ultracentrifuge
PROCEDURE
1. Examine the instruments/materials presented in the laboratory through a video recorded by the
instructor.
2. Determine the use/uses of these instruments and materials in Forensic Toxicology.
3. Draw neatly each material and instrument demonstrated by your laboratory instructor. Label all
parts accurately.
ACTIVITIES
Draw and label the parts of the different glass wares, instrument and Materials
QUESTIONS OF RESEARCH
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Experiment No. 2
INSTRUMENTATIONS IN FORENSIC TOXICOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
The forensic toxicology laboratory utilizes analytical instrumentation applicable to training, routine
and specialized analytical and forensic case work. This instrumentation provides capabilities in robust and
reliable analysis of the varied physical evidences from the crime scenes and natural products, in addition
to the ability to conduct blood ethanol and semen analyses for forensic casework (Clark, 2008).
OBJECTIVES: At the end of the activity, the student will be able to:
a. identify the different laboratory instruments essential in the conduct of forensic toxicology
Laboratory tests;
b. determine the different use/s of the different instruments used in forensic toxicology.
PROCEDURE: The instructor will be showing this equipment through a video recording.
1. Illustrate and label the parts of the following instruments used in forensic toxicology.
2. Illustrate the operating principle of each instrument used in forensic toxicology.
QUESTIONS OF RESEARCH
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Experiment No. 3
Safety and First-Aid in the Forensic Toxicology Laboratory
INTRODUCTION
Safe laboratory practice according to Anderson (2015) ensures the well-being of laboratory personnel
as well as those who enter the laboratory for consultation and those responsible for cleaning the
laboratory and discarding hazardous waste. Laboratory safety includes a variety of policies. The system
of Standard Precautions of good working practices will reduce any danger of infection from any source:
- All blood samples and other human body fluids should be considered as a potentially infectious.
- Always use proper personal protective equipment to protect yourself when working with any body
tissue.
OBJECTIVES: At the end of the activity, the student will able to:
a. be familiar with the use of standard precautions in breaking the chain of infection;
b. understand and be able to apply common laboratory safety rules;
c. demonstrate the proper use of personal protective equipment;
d. discuss and be able to apply proper first-aid techniques in response to poisoning
emergencies.
A. PROTECTIVE CLOTHING:
Everyone who enters the laboratory should wear a laboratory coat. Replace laboratory coat immediately
if it becomes contaminated.
B. DISPOSABLE GLOVES:
Every sample handled in the laboratory is potentially hazardous and gloves should always be used when
handling toxic material including any body tissues. Replace gloves immediately if they are torn.
C. EYEWASHING:
Many infections can be easily caught by contact with the mucous membranes of the eyes. Wash your
eyes immediately with very large amounts of cold running water if contact with a possible infectious
material may have occurred
D. SHARPS:
Sharps, such as needles and lancets, should be disposed of in a special container that is spill proof,
puncture resistant and closable. The sharps container must be labeled in red or orange, must be
maintained upright and must display the biohazard symbol.
E. AEROSOLS:
Avoid all practices in the open laboratory which may cause splashing or the release of droplets or dust
into the air. Carry out all operation which cause aerosols in a suitable fume cupboard and wear safety
glasses.
F. TOXIC AND FLAMMABLE SUBSTANCES:
Toxic and flammable materials must always be contained in a fume cupboard or a suitable safe box.
G. ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT:
Take special care with any equipment which uses liquids. Always leave the installation, servicing and
repairs to qualified personnel.
H. PERSONAL:
Avoid touching your face or mucosae (eyes, nose, and mouth) with your hands while in the laboratory.
You must not eat, drink, smoke or put-on make-up while in the laboratory. Always wash hands
thoroughly before leaving the laboratory.
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I. ACCIDENTS:
All spills should be cleaned immediately with appropriate disinfectant solutions (e.g. dilute bleach
solution), and materials used to wipe up spills should be disposed of as potentially biohazardous. Each
laboratory has a cleanup procedure, but general recommendations include:
▪ Wear gloves
▪ Use dilute (1:10) bleach solution or commercially prepared solution.
▪ First clean area with visible blood then disinfects the entire area of possible
contamination.
▪ Keep the bleach in contact with the contaminated area for at least 20 minutes to
ensure complete disinfection.
▪ All accidents should be reported immediately to the instructor/supervisor in-
charge.
IDENTIFICATION OF HAZARDS:
Hazard is the potential of a substance to cause harm.
The risk from that substance is the likelihood of it harming someone under the conditions of use:
A. BIOLOGIC HAZARDS
Blood, urine, spinal fluid and all other body fluids present biologic safety hazards because they may
contain highly infectious and potentially lethal organisms or viruses.
B. CHEMICAL HAZARDS
Solid, liquid or gaseous chemicals may be hazardous if transported, handled, stored or dispensed
inappropriately. Chemicals may have toxic, flammable, or carcinogenic properties.
C. ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
Electrical hazards are caused by inappropriate use or maintenance of electrical instruments or equipment
that can cause electrical shock, burns or a fire or explosion.
D. MECHANICAL HAZARDS
Mechanical hazards may result from improper use, storage or disposal of glassware, sharp instruments,
compressed gases or equipment.
E. FIRE HAZARDS
Fire or thermal hazards may result from the improper use, storage of either cryogenic substances or
substances capable of combustion. Fires can obviously cause burns, and skin contact with cryogenic
substances has essentially the same effect – it causes a thermal burn. Cryogenic and combustible
substances may cause a fire, explosion, or asphyxiation.
PROCEDURE
1. Biohazard Sign
2. Safety Signage
3. Personal Protective Equipment
4. NFPA Rating System
QUESTIONS OF RESEARCH
1. Enumerate, draw and explain briefly the meaning of signages which can
lessen injury in the laboratory.
2. Describe the first-aid treatments in poisoning cases.
3. Discuss the methods of decontamination in cases of ingested poisoning.
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Assessment No. 1
1. Medico Titulares
2. Medico Legal
3. Philippine Constabulary
4. Provost Marshall
5. Bureau of Government
Laboratories
Part 2: Arrange the Crime scene Protocol, from 1 being the first stage to 5 being the last stage.
Demonstrate the layout of the crime scene or to identify the exact position of the
deceased victim or evidence within the crime scene
To determine what allegedly happened, what crime took place, and how was the
crime committed.
Crime scene technician will process the crime scene for evidence, both physical
and testimonial evidence.
Involves creating a pictorial record of the scene and record items of possible
evidence.
Will help identify possible items of evidentiary nature, point of entry and point of
exit, and getting the general layout of the crime scene.
Part 3: Identification
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CHAPTER III: Blood and Blood Stains
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. internalize the importance of blood and blood stain in crime investigation.
2. identify the different blood groups present in blood
3. compare the stages of blood and blood stain examinations
Importance:
• As circumstantial or corroborative evidence against or in favor of the perpetrator
• For disputed parentage
• Determination of the cause of death and the length of time the victim survived the attack
• Determination of the direction of escape of the victim or the assailant.
• Determination of the origin of the flow of blood.
• Determination of the approximate time the crime was committed
Nature of Blood:
a. Largest circulating tissue of the body
b. Consists of vital substances
c. Fluid that circulates into the Cardiovascular System (CVS)
Kinds of Blood:
a. Arterial Blood b. Venous Blood
- Aka Capillary blood - Dark Red in color
- Bright red color - Contains increased amount of CO2
- Oxygenated blood - Non-oxygenated blood
Characteristics of blood
a. Color – Bright red for arterial blood and dark red for venous blood
b. Volume – 70% of Total body weight
c. Viscosity – Resistance to blood flow
- Blood is thick and sticky
- Normally flows with difficulty
d. Specific Gravity – Weight of blood compared to water on the same volume
- Distilled Water: 1.000
- Blood: 1.065 (due to cellular elements)
e. pH Reaction – Slightly alkaline (7.35-7.45)
f. The circulating tissue of the body - 1 cc of blood: 5,000,000 red cells
- Man of average size: about 6 quarts of blood
Composition of Blood
Formed Elements:
- Composing about 35% of the total blood volume
a. RBC (Erythrocytes)
- Number: 5,000,000 RC/mm3
- Diameter: 7-10 microns
- Rate of Destruction:
- 10 Billion Cells/hr in Adults
b. White Blood Cells/Leukocytes
- Number: 5-10,000/mm3
- Soldiers of the body
- Resists attacks of diseases
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c. Platelets or Thrombocytes
- Number: 150-350,000/mm3
- Functions for blood coagulation
Liquid Portion:
- 65% of the total blood volume
a. Plasma – Straw liquid portion of unclotted blood
b. Serum – Straw-yellowish liquid that separates when blood is allowed to clot
Hemoglobin:
- Coloring matter of blood
- Pigment which is found at the cytoplasm of Red Blood Cells
Types of Hemoglobin
a. Abnormal Derivatives of Hemoglobin
a. Methemoglobin (HbM) – Found in NO3 and NO2 poisoning with a chocolate brown color
b. Sulfhemoglobin (HbS) – Found in the presence of bacteria, severe constipation,
enterogenous cyanosis and the blood color is lavender
c. Carboxyhemoglobin (HbCO) – Due an excessive inhalation of gas from defective stoves
and from automobiles and imparts cherry red color of blood
b. Normal Hemoglobin
a. Oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) – Hemoglobin combined with oxygen and which gives the color
to the arterial blood
b. Reduced hemoglobin -Hemoglobin combined with carbon dioxide and which gives color
to venous blood
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Tests to Identify Blood Stains
Questions to be answered:
a. Does the stain contain blood or other substances?
b. Is the stain being that of blood
c. If the stain is of human blood, did it come from the victim, the accused or from other persons?
d. Is it human or animal?
Blood Grouping
1. ABO Blood Grouping – First blood group system and the only blood Group system that can be
determined using serum
- Blood type depends on:
- Surface protein Antigen
- Antibodies to these substances
- 4 Blood Types:
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Methods of Blood Typing
1. Direct or Forward Typing
- Antigens A and B will always react with its specific antibody in the serum causing agglutination
- Makes use of A and B Antisera that came from lectins and capable of agglutinating A and B
antigens
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Death due to loss of blood
- Death due to loss of blood can be due to different causes like gun shot wound or severe blunt trauma
- This will lead to decreased blood pressure and decreased rate of bleeding
- Blood and blood stains can be analyzed from the scene of the crime, from the clothing and from the
body itself
- For person who lived for a considerable amount of time, large pool of blood from small wounds can be
found and usually the cause of death for this is hemorrhage
2. Blood from the Neck – Swagger away and large forms of blots on the ground
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3. Cuts from small arteries – Spurt of blood in a defined pattern
4. Drops of Blood striking obliquely – Head is on the direction of the flight of drop
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Experiment No. 4
SPECIMEN COLLECTION AND HANDLING
(Venipuncture)
INTRODUCTION
In forensic toxicology, blood samples that are taken from convicted suspects are determined. The
blood gets testified and diagnosis for any sign of evidence that were affiliated with the crime scene's
aftermath.
Phlebotomy is the practice of using a needle to withdraw a sample of blood from a designated
vein. In earlier times, phlebotomy was called bloodletting. It was used to treat and/or cure diseases.
Phlebotomy today is also called venipuncture or venipuncture. A phlebotomist is a person who performs
phlebotomy.
Another field of phlebotomy is forensics, where criminal pathologists examine the blood of crime
victims to determine the exact cause of injury and/or death. Phlebotomists also are given the task of
insuring that all blood samples are guarded safely against contamination and/or tampering
(http://www.ehow.com/ about_5505415_definition-phlebotomy.html).
OBJECTIVE: At the end of the activity, the student will be able to:
MATERIALS
1. Phlebotomy set
a. Syringe Technique b. Vacutainer Technique
- disposable syringe (10 ml) - tube holder
- tourniquet - 2-way needle
- glass tubes (13 X 100) - vacutainer tubes
- applicator stick a. red top
- wet and dry cotton balls b. lavender top
- plaster - Gloves
2. Reagent: - Masks
- betadine
- 70% Ethyl alcohol
3. Instrument
- Clinical centrifuge
- Forceps (curve)
PROCEDURE
1. The instructor orients the students with the different materials, glass wares and
instruments used in phlebotomy through a live video stream or a recorded video;
2. The instructor demonstrates the procedures in performing phlebotomy techniques;
3. The instructor presents the procedures of specimen handling and preparation.
• Palpate and trace the path of veins with the index finger. Arteries pulsate, are most
elastic, and have a thick wall. Thrombosed veins lack resilience, feel cord-like, and roll
easily.
• If superficial veins are not readily apparent, you can force blood into the vein by
massaging the arm from wrist to elbow, tap the site with index and second finger, apply a
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warm, damp washcloth to the site for 5 minutes, or lower the extremity over the bedside
to allow the veins to fill.
• Approach the patient in a friendly, calm manner. Provide for their comfort as much as
possible, and gain the patient's cooperation.
• Identify the patient correctly.
• Properly fill out appropriate requisition forms, indicating the test(s) ordered.
• Verify the patient's condition. Fasting, dietary restrictions, medications, timing, and
medical treatment are all of concern and should be noted on the lab requisition.
• Check for any allergies to antiseptics, adhesives, or latex by observing for armbands
and/or by asking the patient.
• Position the patient. The patient should either sit in a chair, lie down or sit up in bed.
Hyperextend the patient's arm.
• Apply the tourniquet 3-4 inches above the selected puncture site. Do not place too tightly
or leave on more than 2 minutes (and no more than a minute to avoid increasing risk for
hemoconcentration). Wait 2 minutes before reapplying the tourniquet.
• The patient should make a fist without pumping the hand.
• Select the venipuncture site.
• Prepare the patient's arm using an alcohol prep. Cleanse in a circular fashion, beginning
at the site and working outward. Allow to air dry.
• Grasp the patient's arm firmly using your thumb to draw the skin taut and anchor the vein.
The needle should form a 15-to-30-degree angle with the surface of the arm. Swiftly
insert the needle through the skin and into the lumen of the vein. Avoid trauma and
excessive probing.
• When the last tube to be drawn is filling, remove the tourniquet.
• Remove the needle from the patient's arm using a swift backward motion.
• Press down on the gauze once the needle is out of the arm, applying adequate pressure
to avoid formation of a hematoma.
• Dispose of contaminated materials/supplies in designated containers.
• Mix and label all appropriate tubes at the patient bedside.
• Deliver specimens promptly to the laboratory.
ACTIVITIES
Schematically illustrate the preparations of serum and plasma.
Label according the layers of blood formed using the following methods of blood extraction:
a. syringe method;
b. vacutainer method
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Experiment No. 5
Preliminary Test for Blood and Blood Stains
Direct ABO Blood Grouping
Introduction
The most well-known and medically important blood types are in the ABO group. They were
discovered in 1900 to 1001 at the University of Vienna by Karl Landsteiner in the process of trying to
learn why blood transfusion sometimes cause death and at other times save patients.
There are four principal blood types: A, B, AB and O. There are two antibodies that are mostly
responsible for the ABO blood types. The specific combination of these four components determines the
blood type of an individual. An ABO blood typing is a procedure performed to determine someone’s blood
type. This is performed using a direct or a reverse method. For this activity, a direct ABO blood grouping
will be performed.
Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. appreciates how to perform accurately the procedure for the direct ABO blood typing and Rh
blood typing
b. understands the principle behind ABO and Rh blood grouping
Materials:
a. Lancet g. Anti-A reagent
b. Wet and Dry cotton h. Anti-B reagent
c. Glass slide
d. Applicator stick
e. Viewing box
d. Biohazard bag and gloves
f. Pasteur pipette
Procedure: The instructor will be recording a video of the procedure and to be uploaded in Canvas.
Direct ABO Blood Grouping:
1. Materials and reagents will be assembled.
2. Sterilize the puncture site of the ring finger using 70% isopropyl alcohol by running
against the skin to remove microorganism.
3. Air dry the area sterilized. Do not touch with any unsterile surface.
4. Apply a light pressure at the site with the thumb making the skin firm and puncture with
pressure applied.
5. Release the pressure applied.
6. Wipe the first drop of blood with a dry sterile cotton.
7. Apply a slight pressure to form a drop of blood.
8. Dub 0blood sample with the initially prepared slide by placing one drop each in
compartments A and B.
9. Place the slide on a flat surface.
10. Dispense one drop of Anti-serum A and Anti-serum B in each compartment
respectively.
11. Mix the blood and anti-serum with applicator stick. A separate applicator stick is used
to mix the blood in two preparations.
12. Swirl the entire slide for at least two minutes or until agglutination has formed.
13. Observe for agglutination or clumping of cells in the view box and in the microscope.
Activity:
1. Draw the result of the activity shown by the instructor.
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Experiment No. 6
Confirmatory Test for Blood and Blood Stain
Microscopic Examination
Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. Identify the sources and natures of an alleged blood and blood stains and distinguish
between human, avian and piscine blood samples.
Materials:
A. Specimen: Prepared blood slides of the following
a. Human Blood (fresh and old)
b. Avian Blood (Chicken’s blood)
c. Piscine Blood (Fish’s blood)
d. Menstrual Blood
e. Wright’s stain
B. Materials:
a. Electric Microscope
Procedure: The instructor will be recording how to focus the different slide. The image of the different
blood smears under the microscope will shown in the video. The video recording will be uploaded in
Canvas. Student may use additional online and book references to help them in this activity.
Activity:
Drawing/Illustrations
1. Describe completely the different blood in terms of their shape and size.
2. What are the common stains used for blood smear?
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Experiment No. 7
Confirmatory Test for Blood and Blood Stain
Micro Chemical Examination
Introduction
Many different tests have been used to confirm that a stain contains blood. The oldest is chemical
confirmation of the presence of hemoglobin or its derivatives by the formation of specific crystals. For
example, the Takayama or hemochromogen test, in which ferrous iron from hemoglobin reacts with
pyridine to produce red feathery crystals of pyridine ferroprotoporphyrin. Another confirmatory test uses
the Teichman reagent, consisting of a solution of potassium bromide, potassium chloride and potassium
iodide in glacial acetic acid, and is heated to react with hemoglobin. The reaction first converts the
hemoglobin to hemin, and then halides react with the hemin to form characteristic brownish-yellow
rhomboid crystals.
Blood can be identified as being of human origin by precipitin reactions with antisera specific for
components of human blood. Usually this is an anti-human serum. Strictly speaking, this is a test for
human origin not for human blood, as serum constituents such as albumin and some globulins are found
in the extra vascular space.
Objective: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
1. appreciate how to properly perform the micro-chemical methods for blood and blood stain
determination.
2. to understand the principle of each tests.
Materials:
a. Blood stain e. Pyridine reagent
b. Watch glass f. NSS
c. Glass slide with cover slip g. Saturated glucose solution
d. Electric microscope h. Glacial acetic acid
Procedures: The instructor will be recording a video demonstrating how to properly perform the different
micro-chemical test. The video will be uploaded in Canvas.
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C. Teichman test
1. A small crystal of NaCl and 10 drops of glacial acetic acid are placed on a slide with a
minute amount of blood stain
2. Heat the preparation to crystallize the blood
3. Focus under the microscope using the HPO
4. Note dark rhombic crystals of haemin chloride are seen in singly or in cluster.
Activity:
Drawing/Illustration
1. Draw/illustrate Crystals form in the Takayama test
2. Draw/illustrate the crystals formed in the Teichamann test
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Assessment No. 2
Part 3: Match the positive results of each tests used to screen the presence of blood and blood
stain
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CHAPTER IV: Seminal Fluid Analysis
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. assess the importance of seminal fluid analysis in relation to crime investigation
2. schematize the stages of seminal fluid in forensic crime investigation
Typical Ejaculate
• 2-5 mL of semen with approximately 160 million sperm
o This may contain 3pg DNA/Sperm = 480,000 ng DNA/Ejaculate
o Only 1 ng DNA needed for STR typing
• Seminal Fluid
o Medium for ejaculation
▪ Methods of collection: Self production, Condom collection, Aspiration from
vaginal vault after coitus and Coitus interruptus
▪ Samples must be collected in a wide-mouthed bottle
o May contain enzymes and other proteins
▪ Enzymes includes: Acid phosphatase, Prostate specific antigen and semenogelin
o Contains Sperm cells or spermatozoa
o Odor: Musty, Acrid and Fishy
o Color: Pearly white/ Gray-white and slightly turbid
▪ Increased white turbidity indicates infection and WBCs
▪ Yellow color indicates contamination of urine, prolonged abstinence and some
medications
o Viscosity: Highly Viscid
o Liquefaction is usually within 30 to 60 minutes
▪ Viscosity reporting is as follows
• 0 (watery) to 4 (gel like)
▪ Increased viscosity and incomplete liquefaction: Impede sperm motility
▪ Prolonged liquefaction will result to decreased prostatic enzymes
o pH is 7.2 to 8.3
▪ Increase in pH may mean infection in the reproductive tract and decreased pH
may mean increased prostatic fluid
o Specific Gravity is between 1.027 to 1.032
• Semen is an extremely good source of DNA, but…
o Not all semen stains may contain sperm
▪ Vasectomy is a procedure undergone by males where sperm flow is blocked
from being ejaculated, and because of this, DNA typing is not possible.
▪ Cases of infertility where the severity is a factor. DNA typing for this may be
possible.
The Spermatozoa
• Has three distinct regions:
o Head – this contains the acrosome and nucleus (contains haploid DNA)
o Middle Piece - this contains the Mitochondria
o Tail – Also known as the flagella responsible for its movement
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Forensic investigation for Seminal Fluid
1. Overlay Method
a. Spray a Whatman filter paper with distilled water.
b. Lay the paper down over the suspected semen stain and leave it for about 30 to 60
seconds
c. Remove the filter paper from the stain and observe for color change to Purple
2. Spot Test Method
a. Wet a sterile cotton swab with distilled water then roll swab against the stain
b. Saturate the swab with Acid Phosphatase solution
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Experiment No. 8
Seminal Fluid Analysis
Physical and Microscopic Examination
Introduction
Determining the presence or absence, identity and distribution of particular body fluids is key to
the investigation of crimes against the person e.g., rape, assault or murder. The body fluids encountered
in these types of cases are usually blood, semen and saliva. The correct identification of traces of these
fluids at the crime scene or clothing maybe vital to a criminal investigation and the presence and absence
of a particular fluid may assist forensic biology expert in determining why the crime has occurred and
identify the persons who are involved and not involved with the crime.
Microscopic examination of sperm is more confirmatory method of discovery. Using microscopic
equipment, it is often possible to view the sperm cells, proving their presence.
Objectives: At the end of this activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. describe the physical and microscopic characteristics of the semen
b. realize the importance of semen analysis in the investigation of crime against the person
c. determine the morphological characteristics of sperm cells
Materials:
a. Freshly ejaculated semen k. Cover slip
b. Test tubes l. Red and blue litmus paper
c. Serologic pipette m. Gloves
d. Electric microscope n. Biohazard container
e. Glass slide m. 95%ethanol
f. Beaker o. Wrights stain
g. Pasteur pipette p. Distilled water
h. Watch glass q. Hematoxylin and eosin
i. Tally counter r. Petroleum jelly
j. Pipettor
Procedure
A. Physical Examination
The instructor will be discussing the physical characteristics of the seminal fluid. The students
must take down these important characteristics.
a. Color: ___________________________________________
b. Odor: ___________________________________________
c. Viscosity and liquefaction: ___________________________
d. Volume: _________________________________________
e. pH: _____________________________________________
B. Microscopic Examination
The instructor will be discussing the microscopic characteristics of the sperm. The students must
take note of these important characteristics.
a. Sperm morphology: a smear of seminal fluid will be prepared by spreading a small
amount at the center of the slide.
b. Slides are air dried completely and fix the smear by immersing the slide several times in
methyl alcohol.
c. Hematoxylin and eosin staining will then follow.
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d. Slides will then be focused under oil immersion objectives.
e. Morphological characteristics of will then be observed
▪ Head’s width and length: _____________________________________
▪ Midpiece width and length: ___________________________________
▪ Tail width and length: _______________________________________
Activity:
Drawing/Illustration:
1. Draw/illustrate the microscopic appearance of a sperm. Label the parts of the sperm.
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Assessment No. 3
3. What is Oligospermia?
5. How important is seminal fluid analysis in Forensic investigation? Explain your answer.
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CHAPTER V: Forensic Analysis of Hair
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. internalize the importance of hair analysis in crime investigation.
2. differentiate the types and sources of hair
3. criticize the appearance of human from animal hair and from different nationalities.
1891 - Han Gross 1897 - Rudolph Virchow became 1906 - Hugo Marx
published the first description of the the first person to do an in-depth wrote a paper on the use of hair in
uses of physical evidence to help study of hair. forensic investigations to determine
solve crimes identity.
1916 - Albert 1920 - Locard becomes known for 1931 - Dr. Paul Kirk works on new
Schneider became the first to the exchange principle – the fact ways to improve the use of hair in
collect physical evidence with a that “every contact leaves a trace.” forensic investigation
vacuum.
Hair Evidence
• Composed primarily of the protein keratin
• Each species of animal possesses hair with characteristic length, color, shape, root appearance,
and internal microscopic features that distinguish one animal from another
• Considerable variability also exists in the types of hairs that are found on the body of an animal.
• Hairs found on the head, pubic region, arms, legs, and other body areas have characteristics that
can determine their origin.
• Hairs can be transferred during physical contact
• The difference between black and brown hair is the amount of melanin
• Physical contact may result in the transfer of hairs.
Hair anatomy and Growth – present on many different regions of the body
a. Head d. Axilla
b. Pubic area e. Limbs
c. Chest
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Hair is not present in the following area:
a. Palms b. Hands c. Soles of feet
Cyclic growth of Hair
A. Anagen Phase (80-90%) B. Telogen Phase (10-18%) C. Catagen Phase (2%)
Actively growing Follicle is dormant or resting Transition period between
Materials deposited in Hairs are routinely lost the anagen and telogen
hair shaft primary source of evidentiary phases
material.
A. Hair Roots
• Portion embedded on the skin
• Can be either dry or dead or living roots (seen in hair in full growth)
Naturally shed hairs, such as a A hair forcibly removed from the Forcibly removed hairs may
head hair dislodged through scalp will exhibit stretching and have tissue attached.
combing, display undamaged, damage to the root area.
club-shaped roots.
B. Shaft – Present above the surface of the root and the most distinct part
1. Cuticle – outermost covering and a layer of non-nucleated polygonal cells. This usually
appears as overlapped (Scales of fish appearance)
• Most useful in the investigation of the origin of the hair sample
• Several patterns maybe observed
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2. Cortex – This is the thickest layer of the hair shaft which can be either straight or crosswise
• Examined for the presence of coloring matter in the form of tiny granules
• Pigment bodies may contain:
Cortical fusi - Air spaces of varying sizes found Granules- Small, dark, granulated structures that
near the root of a mature human hair vary in size, color, and distribution. Typically
distributed toward the cuticle in humans.
3. Medulla – The central canal that contains the pigmented cells and absent in fuzz hair.
• The medulla may be: Continuous, Fragmented or interrupted
human hair with no medulla. hair with trace medulla. Photomicrograph of a hair
with a clear, continuous
medulla
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C. Tip or point – Appears blunt, round or frayed. This shows whether the hair has been cut.
• Hair tips for women usually has fine tips while m en has a cut off square
Preservation of Hair
• Methods of packing hair
o Pill Box or Test tube – for questioned specimen
o Druggist powder paper – Properly folded, sealed and labeled
Examination of Hair
• Check for the following
Color Kind of cuticle
Length Cortex
Character (Wiry, Wavy, kinky) Medulla
Thickness Presence of dyes and bleaches
Kind of tip Cross section
How did it fall? Medullary index
Condition of root
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• Difference between Human hair and Animal Hair
DNA Analysis of Hair sample - Can be extracted from the root or follicular tag of an anagenic hair
• Nuclear DNA (nDNA) – Comes from both patients and lead to individualization
• Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) – passed only from mother to offspring
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Razor-cut tip.
D. Limb hair Legs and arms
Shorter in length
Arc-like in shape
Often abraded or tapered at the tips
Pigment in limb hair is generally granular in appearance
Medulla is trace to discontinuous
E. Fringe hair Originating from areas of the body outside those specifically designated as head or
pubic
Not suitable for significant comparison purposes
From the neck, sideburns, abdomen, upper leg, and back.
F. Axillary hair hairs, chest hairs, eye hairs, and nose hairs are not routinely compared
Racial Determination
Caucasoid (European) Mongoloid (Asian) Negroid (African)
Fine to medium coarseness Regularly coarse, straight, Regularly curly or kinky
Appearance: Straight or wavy Cross section: Circular Cross Section: Flattened
Colors: ranging from blonde to Diameter: wider Appearance:
brown to black. Cuticle: Curly, wavy, or coiled
Hair shafts: Significantly thicker Pigment granules:
round to oval in cross section Medulla Larger than those found in
Pigment Granules Fine to Continuous and wider Mongoloid and Caucasian hair
medium-sized, evenly Cortex Grouped in clumps of different
distributed Pigment granules that are larger sizes and shapes.
in size Pigment in the hair shaft so
great (opaque).
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Experiment No. 9
Forensic Analysis of hair
Introduction
Hairs are a potentially ubiquitous trace material in many types of forensic investigation. Few
forensic materials give rise to such differing views on their value as evidence, and these views are often
held with a passion. Some believe that hairs provide worthless evidence, while others believe that hairs
can provide potentially, and actually, very significant evidence. The application of DNA methods to the
examination of hairs has sparked renewed interest in the forensic examination of hairs and the role of
microscopic examination.
Objectives: At the end of this activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. identify the structure and the characteristics of human hair
b. to determine the differences between hairs from the different regions of the body
c. understand and appreciate the importance of hair analysis in forensic investigation
Materials
a. Hair samples from different parts of the body
b. Hair from different animal sources
c. Reagents: 1:1 mixture of Glycerin and Water, Lacquer
d. Equipment: Glass slide, cover slip, microscope, pincer and Pasteur pipette
Procedure: The preparation of the samples as well as the microscopy will be shown by the instructor
through a recorded video to be uploaded in Canvas.
A. Examine the hair sample and take note of the following: Any foreign materials, color and texture
B. Prepare the Wet mount
a. Wash the hair with soap and water then with alcohol. Dry hair
b. Place the hair on the slide
c. Add a drop of glycerin and water mixture
d. Cover the preparation with a cover glass
C. Examine the mounted hair and observe for the following parts: roots, cuticle, cortex, medulla and
tip
Activity: With the video provided by the instructor and the additional materials from your online and book
references, accomplish the following.
Drawing/Illustration
1. Draw, label and describe the following types of hair.
Scalp Hair Newly cut hair Burnt hair
Eyebrow Hair Freshly pulled hair Torn hair
Pubic Hair Naturally fallen hair Cat hair & Dog/s hair
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Assessment No. 4
Explain briefly
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CHAPTER VI: Cordage and Fiber Analysis
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. appreciate the importance of fiber analysis in forensic investigation
2. differentiate the types of fiber investigated in forensics
Introduction
Cordage (rope and string) can be made from many different fibers including (Bast) Dogbane,
Milkweed, Nettles, Hemp, Flax; (Leaves) Cattail, Yucca, Agave, Douglas Iris; (Bark) Willow, Maple,
Basswood, Cedar; (Root) Leather Root, Beach Lupine; (Whole stem) Tule, straw, Juncus.
Trace material such as fibers are fairly unique to an individual’s environment because the choices
in clothing, vehicles and home décor are based on personal preferences. Fibers transferred from an
individual’s personal environment can also be secondarily transferred in a crime. The idea that two
people could be wearing the exact clothing on the same day is unusual therefore the idea that foreign
fibers on a suspect or victim that share the same characteristics after a discriminating analytical
examination is also very unusual.
Ropes and cordage may also be submitted to the Laboratory for analysis. These are either
composed of synthetic or natural fibers. Thus, the same analytical scheme is used as with a fiber
examination. An association between the rope or cordage in question and any known ropes submitted
can be determined.
Fibers can be transferred as easily as they can be lost so lack of evidence does not always
indicate lack of contact. That is why collection and packaging of fiber evidence is important.
Fiber-plastic fusion can occur between the clothing of the occupant and interior surfaces of
the vehicle which are made of thermoplastics. During an impact, parts of the garments can be rubbed
under high pressure against the surface of the vehicle which then causes frictional heat. This, in turn,
causes local melting of the thermoplastic material. During this contact, fibers from the garment can be
transferred and become embedded into the softened plastic. It is the plastic material that is actually
melting and not the fibers.
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Classification of Fibers
I. Natural Fibers
Page 43 of 81
Activity No. 10
Fiber Analysis
Micro-Chemical Examination
Introduction
Fiber evidence at a crime scene can be used to link a suspect to a crime. Where the fibers are
found at a crime scene can also suggest the nature of contact that was made by the criminal. For
example, fibers found on a victim might suggest direct contact with that person, while fibers found in a
victim’s apartment may only put the suspect in that location. There are two ways that fibers can be
transferred. Direct transfer also known as primary transfer occurs when the fibers from the suspect’s
clothes comes in contact with the victim. Indirect transfer or secondary transfer takes place when fibers
that are transferred to a suspects clothing are then transferred to the victim.
Objectives: At the end of the activity, students are expected to be able to:
a. describe the different characteristics and/or kinds of fibers
b. determine the importance of fiber analysis in crime investigation
Materials:
a. Wool fibers f. Glass wool
b. Natural silk fiber g. Microscope
c. Artificial silk fiber h. Glass slide
d. Cotton fibers i. Test tube and holder
e. Litmus paper j. Teasing needles
Procedure: The instructor will be recording a video demonstrating the procedures on how to do
fiber analysis. Video will be uploaded in Canvas.
1. Microscopic Examination
- Place the fiber to be examined on a glass slide
- Tease the fiber apart with the use of needle
- Cover with a cover glass
- Observe for the following
o Whether cylindrical, flat or ribbon like
o Whether linen is regular, broad or irregular
o Whether appearing as single thread or paired
o Whether epidermal scale is present
2. Chemical Examination
- Place the fiber to be examined in a test tube
- Heat the test tube until fiber gives off fumes
- Determine the odor of the fumes
- Test the fumes with blue and red litmus paper
- Place the piece of cotton moistened with lead acetic solution and expose this to the
fumes of the burning fiber
- Observe for any blackening of the cotton
- Burn and observe the fiber
Activity:
Drawing/Illustration
1. Draw and illustrate the general appearance of the fiber (Wool, Natural silk, Cotton and Artificial
silk)
Page 44 of 81
a. Odor of fumes
b. Reaction to litmus paper
c. Reaction to Lead Acetate
d. Rate of burning (Fast or slow)
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CHAPTER VII: Casting and Moulage
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. appreciate the importance of moulage and casting in crime investigation
2. identify the different use casting and moulage in crime investigation
Introduction
Casting Materials are any materials which can be changed from a plastic or liquid state to the
solid state. The following are criteria for a good casting material:
a. Must be fluid
b. Must harden rapidly
c. Must not be deformable
d. Must be tough
e. Must be easy to apply
f. Must not adhere to the material
g. Must have a fine composition
h. Must not injure the impression
i. Must be obtainable
j. Must be cheap
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Steps in Casting and Moulage
Page 47 of 81
Activity No. 11
Moulage and Casting
Introduction
Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. Appreciate how to do the moulage and casting procedure
b. be able to describe the method of capturing impressions made on a casting material
Materials:
a. Footprint impression (sand) i. Mixing bowl and spatula
b. Hand impression (Clay) j. Water through
c. Frames (shoe box) k. PPE
d. Talcum powder l. Manila paper
e. Shellac
f. Plaster of Paris
g. Pieces of Applicator sticks
h. Hair spray
Procedure: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the
test and will be uploading it in Canvas.
Activity:
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CHAPTER VIII: Gunshot Residue Analysis
Introduction
The primer is detonated when it is crushed by the force of the firing pin. This drives hot gases and
hot particles into the propellant and ignites it. The ignited propellant decomposes and forms gaseous
products. Simultaneously, heat, in enormous quantity, is released by this reaction. The heat generated on
ignition of the primer causes the inorganic ingredients of the primer mixture to vaporize. These vapors re-
condense into droplets, which are further subjected to high pressure and temperature arising from the
openings as vapors and solidified as particulate that varies in shape and size from submicron to over 100
microns. Under ideal circumstances it would be expected that all of the propellant powder would be
consumed in the burning process and would be converted into gases. However, in practice this is not the
case because the whole powder charge is never totally burnt.
Gunpowder: A black powder composed on 75% potassium nitrate, 15% sulfur and 10% charcoal
Smokeless Powder: Can be single based made up of Nitrocellulose or Double base made up of
Mitrpcellulose and Nitroglycerine
Location of Gunshot residue: The basic principle of trace and transfer evidence is the Locard Exchange
Principle
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b. Tape lifting: a technique used to inorganic b. Vacuum lifting: Used for collecting on clothing’s.
sample for SEM analysis Clothing debris are vacuumed on to a filter disc.
Then using solvents, residue on filter paper will be
collected.
Methods of Analysis
1. Gross Examination
- Non-conclusive
- Use of hand lens
- Check for fine black powder particles:
- Entrance of gunshot
- Dorsum of hand
2. Microscopic Examination
- Fine particles magnified
- No characteristic shape, color or consistency of gunpowder
- Paraffin Test
- Diphenylamine Test
- Dermal Nitrate Test
- Lunge Test/ Gonzales Test
- Principle: Nitrates in the gunpowder residue (NO3) reacts with the
diphenylamine
- Positive Result:
1. A deep blue speck developed when NO3 comes in contact with
diphenylamine reagent
- False Negative Result:
1. Use of automatic pistol
2. Direction and wind velocity
- False Positive result
1. Chlorates, dichromates, iodates, bromates, permanganates and higher
metal oxides.
- Walker’s Test
- C-Acid, H-Acid test
- Uses photographic paper treated with either: C-Acid (2-naphthalamine- 4,8-
disulfonic acid), H- Acid (1-amino-8-naphthol-3,6-disulfonic acid) or Sulfonic Acid
swabbed with alpha naphthalamine in ethyl alcohol
- Griess Test
- Principle: Nitrite in acid solution reacts with a primary aromatic amine forming
diazonium salt
1. Sulfanilic acid reacts with nitrous acid to yield a diazonium ion which then
couples with alpha- naphthylamine to produce a red azo dye.
2. Specific for nitrite, not specific for gunshot residues
3. Alpha-naphthylamine a powerful carcinogen
4. N-(1-naphthyl) ethylenediamine is a suitable replacement agent
-
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Spectrophotometry
(FAAS)
Scanning Electron Adhesive to gather any particles
Microscope w/ X-Ray Analyzed through Scanning Electron Microscopy
Analyzer X-Ray Analyzer confirms their presence
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Activity No.12
Forensic Analysis of Gunshot Residue
Microscopic and Chemical Analysis
Introduction
When a gun is fired, hot gasses and small particulates are generated during explosion of the
primer and the propellant in the cartridge casing. These particulates, as well as those formed by the
condensation of some of the hot gases are deposited on parts of the hand and clothes. Of the person
firing the gun as well as on other objects in the vicinity of the weapon. These small particulates are called
“Gunshot Residues: They have distinctive characteristics and can be analyzed by several method.
Samples of Gunshot residues are collected from people suspected of firing a gun by pressing adhesive
material to the area of interest, for example, fingers, the top of the hand and the clothes.
Paraffin test is one of the crudest methods for detecting the presence of gunshot residue. This
method detects the presence of nitrate residue. In this test warm paraffin, which is applied to the skin to
open up its pores, collects contaminants. If the suspect had fired a gun, one potential contaminant would
be the nitrates from gun powder residue. Once the paraffin hardens, either diphenylamine or diphenyl
benzidine is introduced to the paraffin cast, which will turn it blue in the presence of nitrates. Thus, the
presence of blue dots on the paraffin casts is evidence that the suspect had fired a gun.
Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. appreciate how to detect and identify the microscopic appearance of a gunshot residue
b. appreciate the proper way of how to identify the presence of nitrate in gun powder residue using
paraffin cast technique
c. determine the importance of gunshot residue analysis in identifying suspects firing a gun as well
as other objects in the vicinity of the weapon.
Materials:
a. Compound microscope e. Cotton gauze
b. Cotton swab f. Beaker
c. Magnifying glass g. Tong
d. Transparent adhesive tape h. manila paper
e. Bunsen burner i. Nitric Acid
f. Tripod j. Freshly prepared diphenylalanine
g. Wire gauze
h. Paraffin wax
Procedure: The instructor will be recording a video demonstrating the proper way of analyzing gunshot
residue using microscopic analysis and paraffin technique. The results will be shown and explained by
the instructor.
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Activity:
1. Enumerate and explain the methods of how to collect gunshot residue samples.
2. Explain the principle of the paraffin test.
3. Is the paraffin test still used today?
4. Aside from what was performed in the lab, enumerate and explain two more test to detect the
presence of gunshot residue.
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CHAPTER IX: Glass and Glass Fracture
Introduction
Glass is an important physical evidence because it breaks and pieces are scattered at the crime
scene and on a suspect. It is nearly impossible for any suspect involved in a scene where it is present not
to take away a trace. A glass impact will shower fragments into a surprisingly large radius – up to around
three meters. If a forensic investigator trained in glass recovery manages to trace an intruder and seize
some clothes – if he was wearing them at the time – there’s a significant chance it will have glass that
would tie him to the scene in question. Glass can also be found in some unlikely places too – like
our burglar’s hair, ears, underneath the fingernails or even in the skin. Investigators are called upon to
determine whether a window was broken from inside or outside. Determine which of two holes in a
window was made first. A hole was caused by stone, bullet or some other forces.
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. justify the use of glass fractures in crime investigation.
2. appreciate the importance of glass fracture reconstruction in forensic crime investigation
Characteristics of Glass:
a. Hard non-crystalline material
b. Usually clear and transparent
c. Glassy state or vitreous state
d. Atoms arranged at random rather than regular
e. Fluid at high temperature
f. Super cooled liquid
Composition of Glass: Sand (silica), Soda, Lime and other trace elements
Additive’s responsibilities:
a. Alumina – Aluminum oxide
- Units formed lead to improved chemical durability and viscosity
b. Boron-Oxide – Very resistant to heat
- Addition used in borosilicate & aluminoborosilicate glasses.
c. Soda Ash – lower silica’s melting point
- Allows metal containers for processing (fluxing agent)
d. Glauber’s salt
- Sometimes used instead of soda ash
e. Lime
- Added to improve hardness & chemical durability
f. Lead oxide – high lead content lowers melting point
Types of Glass
a. Aluminosilicate & Borosilicate
b. Laminated Glass
c. Lead Glass
d. Soda lime Glass
e. Tempered (stressed) glass
f. Potash
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Methods of Glass Analysis
Breaking of Glass
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3 R’s Rule
Radial cracks form a Right angle on the Reverse side of the force. Radial cracks are first
commencing on the side of the glass opposite to the destructive force. Stress lines on a concentric crack
will be at right angles to the front. Concentric cracks occur afterwards. Starting on the same side as the
line force.
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Activity No. 13
Glass Fragments and Fracture
Introduction
Glass is such a common material that it shows up on soles and clothing for almost anyone with
so much glass picked up from casual contact, courts and investigators needs someway to determine
which fragments actually have relevance in cases. This makes forensic glass analysis essential to the
criminal justice.
Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to appreciate how to
determine and identify the direction and the means a glass pane was broken.
Materials:
a. Window glass
b. Illustration board
c. Hand lens
d. Broad scotch tape
e. Hammer
Procedure: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the test and
will be uploading it in Canvas.
A. Direction of Force
a. Break a piece of glass by means of a hammer
b. Collect and reconstruct the broken pieces of glass
c. Examine the cross section and striation found on the edge of each
d. Determine the first and radial cracks
e. Determines the stress lines
f. Determine the direction where force was applied from the result of your examination.
B. Reconstruction of the broken glass
Activity:
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CHAPTER X. DNA Typing
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. discuss the importance of DNA typing in relation to crime investigation
2. appreciate the different practical uses of DNA
Introduction
"DNA typing" is a catch-all term for a wide range of methods for studying genetic variations. Each
method has its own advantages and limitations, and each is at a different state of technical development.
Each DNA typing method involves three steps:
1.Laboratory analysis of samples to determine their genetic-marker types at multiple sites of potential
variation.
2.Comparison of the genetic-marker types of the samples to determine whether the types match and
thus whether the samples could have come from the same source.
3.If the types match, statistical analysis of the population frequency of the types to determine the
probability that such a match might have been observed by chance in a comparison of samples from
different persons
What is a DNA?
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the hereditary material in humans and almost all other
organisms. Nearly every cell in a person’s body has the same DNA. Most DNA is located in the cell
nucleus (where it is called nuclear DNA), but a small amount of DNA can also be found in the
mitochondria (where it is called mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA).
The information in DNA is stored as a code made up of four chemical bases: adenine (A),
guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). Human DNA consists of about 3 billion bases, and more than
99 percent of those bases are the same in all people. The order, or sequence, of these bases determines
the information available for building and maintaining an organism, similar to the way in which letters of
the alphabet appear in a certain order to form words and sentences.
DNA bases pair up with each other, A with T and C with G, to form units called base pairs. Each
base is also attached to a sugar molecule and a phosphate molecule. Together, a base, sugar, and
phosphate are called a nucleotide. Nucleotides are arranged in two long strands that form a spiral called
a double helix. The structure of the double helix is somewhat like a ladder, with the base pairs forming the
ladder’s rungs and the sugar and phosphate molecules forming the vertical sidepieces of the ladder.
An important property of DNA is that it can replicate, or make copies of itself. Each strand of DNA
in the double helix can serve as a pattern for duplicating the sequence of bases. This is critical when cells
divide because each new cell needs to have an exact copy of the DNA present in the old cell.
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This is a process where in DNA extracted from a biological sample is tested. The DNA is
processed to provide identification of genetic sequences.
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Chapter XI: Forensic Toxicology
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. evaluate the importance of poison isolation in forensics
2. Determine the different examples of dangerous drugs
Introduction
Toxicology is branch of science which treats poisons, their origin, physical and chemical
properties, physiological action, treatment of their noxious effect, and their methods of detection. Poison
is any substance which produces deleterious effects of the living tissues and once introduced into the
blood stream even in a small dose, is likely to cause injurious effect to health and even cause death.
Types of poisoning
Accidental Poisoning Taken without the intention to cause death
Suicidal Poisoning Taken voluntarily for the purpose of taking one owns life
Homicidal Poisoning Given willfully with intent to cause death to the victim
Undetermined Poisoning Problem how poison was obtained and why it was
administered
A. Attributed to individuals
a. Age and Sex e. Food
b. Habit f. Disease
c. Health g. Sleep
d. Idiosyncrasy h. Exhaustion
Poison Elimination
a. Emesis e. Milk
b. Respiration f. Sweat
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c. Feces/Stool g. Saliva
d. Urine h. Tears
Types of Poisons
Organic poisons Synthetic drugs, Alcohols, Petroleum product, Insecticides,
Chlorocompounds, Aromatic and Organo-P-compounds
Inorganic poisons Metals, metalloids, non-metals, salts, acids, bases, As, Sb, Pb,
Salts, Cyanides, Fluorides, CO, Halogens
Biological poisons All poisonous plants and their parts and extract. Opium, cocaine
and atrophine
Collection of Samples
a. Vomitus
b. Purged materials
c. Urine or fecal stains
d. Clothes, bed sheets and bed cover
e. Medicines the victim or family have been using
f. All containers of medicine
g. Remains of food and drinks
h. Containers of food and drink
i. Cooking utensils
j. Solids and liquids contained in traps of sink
Autopsy Materials
The following materials are a MUST
a. Vomitus and purges e. Intestines (whole)
b. Blood (500 mL) f. Kidneys
c. Urine (Total amount recovered) g. Spleen
d. Stomach contents
Symptoms of Poisoning
a. Vomiting – due to As, acids, alkali, excess liquor and metallic salt
b. Diarrhea – same agents as A
c. Cramps – As, Sb and Pb
d. Delirium – Diarrhea, Cannabis, alcohol, atropine, Hyoscine, LSD
e. Convulsion – Nicotine, Cyanide
f. Paralysis – Snake venom, acotine and As
g. Coma – Barbiturates, opium, CO, Chloroform, Excess liquor
Microscopic Examination
a. Physical State
b. Color, Odor
c. Mixtures of materials
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Flame Tests (Beilten Test)
a. Presence of organic compound is suspected to contain halogens.
b. Moistening a copper wire with the poison
Luminosity Test
a. When Phosphorous is suspected.
b. Small quantity of material is placed in a test tube, acidified with dilute H2SO4.
c. Shaken and heated between 40- 50’C.
b. Mitscherlich’s Test
- Determines Phosphorous from the sample
- Organs acidified with dilute H2SO4
- Collected in dilute HNO3
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Experiment No. 14
PREPARATION OF APPARATUS USED
IN THE ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF POISON
(TOXICOLOGY)
INTRODUCTION:
OBJECTIVE: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to appreciate the preparation
of the different set-ups in the isolation and identification of poisons.
MATERIALS
PROCEDURE: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the test
and will be uploading it in Canvas.
Distillation Set-Up: The proper way of setting up will be shown by the instructor.
1. Examine the illustration of the Distillation Set-up.
2. Study the diagram provided and carefully prepare the Steam Distillation set up.
3. The setup of instruments will be checked by the instructor before operating the
system.
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http://ph.images.search.yahoo.com/search/images
4. Combine equal parts (30 ml) of 95% ethyl and urine sample and dispense in
the distilling flask. (instructor to explain the proper technique)
5. Assemble the thermometer in a tightly fitted cork. The bulb of the thermometer
should be submerged in the solution.
6. Boil the solution and maintain a temperature lower than the boiling point of an
ethyl alcohol throughout the process.
7. Collect the distillate using a beaker (30 ml) and transfer in s sterile urine
container.
8. Keep the distillate for the next laboratory activity.
1. What are other methods used in forensic toxicology to separate the poisons from the entire
specimen? Describe each.
2. Discuss the principle of separation in the following processes:
a. Gel electrophoresis
b. Dialysis
c. Chromatography
d. Precipitation
e. Sedimentation
3. What is solvent extraction? Discuss completely
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Chapter XII. Dangerous Drugs
Objectives
At the end of the topic, the students should be able to:
1. differentiate dangerous from prohibited drugs
2. identify the different features of dangerous drugs
Republic Act No. 9165 June 7, 2002, This Act shall be known and cited as the
"Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002". It is the policy of the State to safeguard the
integrity of its territory and the well-being of its citizenry particularly the youth, from the harmful
effects of dangerous drugs on their physical and mental well-being, and to defend the same against
acts or omissions detrimental to their development and preservation. In view of the foregoing, the
State needs to enhance further the efficacy of the law against dangerous drugs, it being one of
today's more serious social ills.
Drugs are any substance that produces physiological or psychological change within a short
period of time after ingestion of a specified dose. Different types of drugs affect your body in different
ways, and the effects associated with drugs can vary from person to person. How a drug effects an
individual is dependent on a variety of factors including body size, general health, the amount and
strength of the drug, and whether any other drugs are in the system at the same time.
When an individual becomes strongly attached to a drug. Dependency is subdivided into two
categories: physiological and psychological. Drugs can have short-term and long-term effects. These
effects can be physical and psychological, and can include dependency. Psychological dependence is
when a person develops an uncontrollable “craving” (mental or emotional need) for a drug, the craving is
a desperate need to continue. In physiological dependency, the body continually needs to have the drug,
a person experience sickness if drug is discontinued.
*Morphine is the primary *Stimulants are taken to *Cause a significantly altered mental state, often
active drug in opium that make one feel more including hallucinations
came from the dried sap energetic, strong, or awake
of the opium poppy plant. *Marijuana is one of the oldest
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*Abused stimulants: *Physiologically active ingredients: Cannabinoids,
Amphetamine, found in the resinous leaf coating of Cannabis sativa
methamphetamine, and
cocaine *The most active cannabinoid
is THC
Livescience.com *Methamphetamine is the
drug most commonly
*Opium can be smoked produced in clandestine labs
directly or chemically
processed to isolate pure
morphine
Medicalexpress.com
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*Naturally occurring hallucinogens: Peyote, the bud
of a particular cactus whose main ingredient is
mescalin
e.wikipedia.org
*Alcohol (depressant) - most abused *prepared by clandestine labs, or obtained *Athletes trying to gain a
substance legally from other countries competitive edge may
abuse stimulants and
*MDMA - “love drug” or “Ecstasy” painkillers
Laressio.com
effects
*Anabolic steroids
promote cell growth
resulting in growth of
*Barbiturates - physiologically
muscle tissue and
active depressants, resulting in a sometimes bone size and
strength
physical & mental state similar to Theconversation.com
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alcohol-induced intoxication *Ketamine - anesthetic and animal
tranquilizer; causes anterograde amnesia
Drugtestsinbulk.com
*Valium (a benzodiazepine) - a
tranquilizer drug designed to relieve
anxiety
*Rohypnol or “roofies” is a
benzodiazepine and a major drug of
abuse at raves and
the club scene
Drug testing centers over the years had an increasing capability. Drug testing has been required
by government agencies, industrial agencies and sports agencies. Forensic drug testing has been used
for the application of drug test in questions of law. The following are specimen requirements and the
different methods used for drug testing:
• Urine specimen – the usual sample used to test a number of drugs of abuse
o Dias advantage:
▪ Detects only fairly recent drug use
▪ Will not differentiate casual use from chronic drug abuse
▪ Does not determine degree of impairment
▪ Does not determine dose of drug taken
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▪ Will not state exact time of use
• Meconium
o first stool of the newborn
o begins to form during second trimester and continues to accumulate until birth
o provides evidence of maternal drug use anytime during the last two trimesters
• Hair
o obtained easily; not easily tampered
o prior drug use may be detected for several months
o hair growth: 0.3 to 0.4 mm/day
o mechanism of drug deposition in hair
▪ transfer from blood to growing hair shaft
▪ transfer from sweat
▪ environmental contamination
• Sweat
o sweat-patch collection devices, worn for several days to several weeks
o the drug, if present accumulates on the absorbent pad in the patch
o advantage: monitoring of drug use in correctional institutions or in drug rehab programs
• Saliva
o easy to obtain, less invasion of privacy and ease of adulteration
o ultrafiltrate of plasma and used for recent drug use
o detection of drug level is shorter compared with urine
Laboratory Considerations
Specimen collection
o urine: sample of choice; represents the net load of the drug over a long period
o guard against specimen exchange and/ or adulteration
o urine pH, specific gravity and creatinine
o blood: represents transient passage of the drug thru the circulation
o only a quick picture of the drug level at a specific time
Processing and handling – confidentiality and chain of custody
Analytical methods
a. screening assay – good sensitivity with marginal specificity
b. confirmatory assay – high sensitivity and specificity
- qualitative and quantitative info
- different from screening procedure
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IV. Radioimmunoassay
o Drug (hapten) + protein + antibody
o Incubation of serum + antibody + radiolabeled drug (competition for antibody binding
sites)
o 2 fractions: Free fraction (unbound drug) and Antibody-bound drug
CHROMATOGRAPHIC
I. Chromatography
o Adsorption of drug to a solid support and elution by means of a mobile , liquid phase
o TLC – screening for drug identification
Thin Layer Chromatography
o use solid phase support medium and liquid mobile phase separation system
o drugs are separated on the basis of their ability to dissolve in the solvent system and its
strength of interaction with the support phase
o color reactions are then used to locate and identify the specific substance
o urine sample adjusted to pH 8.5
HPLC and GLC- primarily for quantitating serum drug levels in TDM and also for confirming drug
identification
Gas Chromatography/ Mass Spectrometry
o most specific and sensitive: gold standard
o parent drug and metabolites may be detected
o sample is placed in a solvent to extract the substance
o extract is concentrated and injected into a gas chromatograph
o fractionation pattern is determined
o mass spectrometry: determine molecular weight and structural characteristics to identify
the drug
SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC
o Spectral scan: tentative identification of drugs
o Protein precipitation or extraction
o Quantitative analysis
1. Ethanol
▪ Most commonly abused depressant
▪ Toxic metabolite: acetaldehyde
▪ Increase in GGT, AST, AST/ALT ration (>2.0), increased HDL and MCV
▪ Serum, plasma and whole blood are acceptable specimen (venipuncture site should be
cleaned with alcohol-free disinfectant – benzalkonium chloride)
▪ The specimen must be capped all the time to avoid evaporation of alcohol
▪ Methods for testing: enzymatic, GC and osmometry
▪ Detection limit: 12 hours
▪ Fatal dose: 300 – 400 mL of pure alcohol consumed in <1 hour
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Influence of Acute Ethanol Ingestion on Ethanol Levels and Behavior
BAC (mg/dL) Influence
(lifted from Henry’s Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods, edited by
McPherson and Pincus)
0.45+ Death
Modified from Dubowski KM, Gadsden RH Sr, Poklis A. The stability of ethanol in human whole blood
controls: an interlaboratory evaluation. J Anal Toxicol. 1997 Oct;21(6):486-91. All rights reserved
(lifted from Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics 5 th edition by Burtis, Ashwood
& Bruns)
OTHER ALCOHOLS
NAME/SYNONYMS SOURCES TOXIC SYMPTOMS OF METHODS FOR
METABOLITE TOXICITY DETERMINATION
Anti-freeze
agents
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Isopropyl alcohol / Antiseptic Acetone Acetonemia, acetonuria Gas
rubbing alcohol agent & hyperosmolarity Chromatography
without hyperglycemia
& acidosis
Assessment No. 5
Question: On the space provided, differentiate a screening from a confirmatory drug testing
laboratory as to service capabilities and test processes.
Question: In your opinion, was the War on Drugs by the President successful?
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Reference:
Hayes, Wallace A (2007). Principles and Methods of Toxicology (5th ed.). USA: Informa
Healthcare.
Katzung, B.G., ed. (2009) Basic and clinical pharmacology. (11th ed.). Boston : McGraw-Hill.
Page 73 of 81
Experiment No. 15
APPLICATION OF MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION
ON MARIJUANA
INTRODUCTION:
A very small amount of the dried unknown is selected. This becomes the sample. The sample is
placed on a microscopic slide. A drop or two of water is then added to the slide. The slides are examined
at varying levels of magnification and under different light conditions. What the analyst is looking for is
two distinct morphological features. They are looking for microscopic “hairs” on the unknown. These are
cystolithic hairs and glandular hairs. Cystolithic hairs are often likened to like little bear claws in their
appearance. Some techniques call for the use of hydrochloric acid after they look for these hairs. A few
drops of HCL are added by the analyst. The analyst then looks to see if there is some unspecified
effervescence under the light of the microscope
(http://www.thetruthaboutforensicscience.com/tag/microscopic-morphological-examination-for-
marijuana/).
OBJECTIVE: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. identify the microscopic characteristics of marijuana;
b. determine the morphologic features of marijuana.
Samples
Marijuana leaves and seeds, papaya leaves, shredded tobacco (cigarette of any brand).
Tobaco Americano or any available leaves resembling marijuana in form.
Reagent
Dilute HCl
PROCEDURE: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the test
and will be uploading it in Canvas.
1. Place few pieces of crushed leaves suspected to be marijuana on a glass slide
and view the preparation under the microscope (LPO).
2. Observe the fine hairs that appear like bear claws and the spheroidal crystolith
on its base.
3. Place a drop of dilute HCl against the specimen after the microscopic
examination.
4. Take note of the effervescence.
5. Repeat the above procedure using other samples.
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g. Route of introduction
h. Use/uses
2. What are the chemical tests for marijuana? Describe each and give the positive results.
3. What is medical marijuana? Discuss completely.
4. Are you in favor of medical marijuana? Explain your
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Experiment No. 16
APPLICATION OF MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION
ON SHABU (Microcrystal Test)
INTRODUCTION:
Shabu is an amphetamine derivative (trade name Methedrine) used in the form of a crystalline
hydrochloride; used as a stimulant to the nervous system and as an appetite suppressant. Shabu is a
prohibited drug. Said to be addictive and destructive. For occasional users l, here are the effects such as
Insomnia which can last for as long as three days, feeling energized and alert, increased activity,
increased sexuality and makes you lose your appetite (answers.com/Q/What
_is_shabu_and_what_is_the_effect_in_the_body).
OBJECTIVE: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to be able to:
a. identify the presence of methamphetamine (shabu) using the microcrystal test;
b. determine the physical and chemical characteristics of shabu.
Procedure: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the test and
will be uploading it in Canvas.
A. Preparation of Reagent
5% HAuCl in H3PO4
- Dissolve 1 gram of commercial gold trichloride acid (HAuCl4 x 4H20) in
20 ml of a solution containing 1 volume of concentrated H3PO4 and 2
volumes of water.
B. Procedure
1. Transfer a small quantity of the sample powder into the depression of
the cavity slide.
2. Add a drop. of the volatizing reagent (5% NaOH solution).
3. Immediately transfer a drop of testing reagent (5% HAuCl in H3PO4)
4. Place a cover slip on top of the sample cavity and stand for 10 minutes at
room temperature.
5. After 10, minutes, examine the crystals in the reagent or at the edge of the
reagent drop under the microscope using the LPO.
7. Illustrate and describe result.
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Experiment No. 17
Drug Testing: MET and THC
MATERIALS:
• Specimen: Urine
• Drug Testing kits
PROCEDURE: The instructor will make a video of the actual laboratory performance of the procedure
and explanation of the principle of the tests. The video will be uploaded for the students to be able to
familiarize themselves with the procedure. The video will explain the complete process of screening drug
tests and the results of such test.
GUIDE QUESTIONS: The instructor will make an online forum where the students can type and post their
answers to the QFRs. For offline students, they can write it on an intermediate pad to be submitted via
mail, express couriers or through text message.
1. Discuss the principle associated with screening drug testing (TLC) and confirmatory drug testing
(GC-MS)
2. In tabular form, characterize the different drugs of abuse based on:
a. Other names (common names/chemical name)
b. Mode of action
c. Detection Limit & Detection Time in Urine
3. Discuss the concept of “Chain of Custody” in drug testing.
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Experiment No. 18
APPLICATION OF MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION
ON BARBITURATES
INTRODUCTION:
Forensic drug analysis deals with the identification and quantification of illegal drugs. Forensic
drug tests are generally carried out in two steps: screening and confirmation. Once drugs are detected
through screening, for example spot test kits (e.g., immunoassays, Marquis test, etc), samples are then
collected and sent to laboratories for confirmation tests. Confirmation requires high sensitivity and
selectivity toward drugs, as well as their metabolites, and is frequently carried out by GC/MS. Gas
chromatography (GC) is based on the separation of volatile samples by their unique affinity for the
column. Target drug compounds in the sample are identified by their retention times when samples are
passed through chromatographic columns. GC coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful
technique because structures of unknown compounds can be identified after they have been separated
by GC. Other analytical instruments, such as HPLC, FTIR, and UV/Vis are found in forensic laboratories
as complementary techniques ( http://staff.buffalostate.edu/kimj/File/Project1.htm).
OBJECTIVE: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to appreciate the proper way of how to
perform the microscopic testing for the identification of common barbiturates by crystal formation
employing Wagenaar test.
Reagents:
- Socobarbital sodium - Amybarbital
- Phenobarbital - Wagenaar Reagent
PROCEDURE: The instructor will be demonstrating through a recorded video the procedure of the test
and will be uploading it in Canvas.
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References:
A. Textbook
Textbooks/Reference Books (minimum of five (5) books) – must be available at the UB Library
Knight, B. (2005). Simpson’s Forensic medicine (11 th ed.). USA.: C & E Publishing Inc.
Vidal, P. (2005). War against drug abuse. Manila: Mary Jo Publishing House, Inc.
B. Journals
Journal of Chromatography. B, Analytical technologies in the biomedical and life science (2002-present)
C. Electronic Sources
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Module Evaluation
The learner’s feedback is vital to us. Taking into account your assessment and impression will
help us enrich the content enhance the quality your learning engagement with us.
From this view, we would appreciate if you could spend some time completing this evaluation by
checking the column you think is appropriate and then providing a qualitative response to the questions
raised in this form.
The questionnaire is anonymous and though your participation is voluntary, your utmost
cooperation is encouraged.
Once completed the results of these questionnaires will be analyzed and an overview compiled
which will be reported to the next cohort of students in the module handbook. The overview will also be
used to inform discussion at programme team conference.
I. The Module
d. contained relevant
information
b. instructions were
comprehensive
c. was sufficiently
challenging
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f. had enriched my
knowledge about the
lessons
Thank you.
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