Preservation of biological samples in sex crimes

Introduction: Sexual violence represents one of the most serious issues in public health, social justice, and sexual and reproductive human rights in Latin America. It is defined as the commission of any sexual act without consent or desire from the victim, involves the use of force, and leads to severe physical, psychological, and social consequences. Due to this, the necessity arose to conduct laboratory studies in 1971. In that year, Hara and colleagues described a protein enzyme in seminal fluid named “gammasemino” protein. By 1978, Sensabaugh and others characterized the protein in detail, establishing that its molecular weight corresponds to 30,000 Daltons, and it was named p30. In 1980, the first immunometric assay was developed, and Graves and Sensabaugh demonstrated that p30 is a reliable forensic marker for the identification of semen, thereby proving the identity of the perpetrator of rape. Objective: To determine if the P30 protein maintains the results of evidence obtained in sexual crimes, through adequate preservation in solid containers. Methodology: The current investigation was carried out in the laboratory, for both field and bibliographic methods. Results: The tests carried out in the laboratory of different swabs samples of vaginal secretion, which were collected each 1 year 2 months ago, 2 years ago and 5 years ago when the sample was taken when it was positive; the sample in a latex glove with a cut of 0.5 x 1 cm of the middle part with a conservation time of 4 years 5 months, coincided with the same positive result. That is to say that if an adequate conservation of the P30 protein in solid supports is maintained, the results of the tests obtained in sexual crimes will be the same without any alteration. Conclusion: once the investigation was concluded, it was possible to prove that, if there is a good conservation of the P30 protein without letting it get contaminated, when performing another analysis with the same procedure in the laboratory, over the years we will obtain the same results with high reliability; which will be useful when it is necessary and requested by the competent authority to perform a new study in the laboratory of the evidences that served as support at the time to solve a certain crime of rape. Results: The tests carried out in the laboratory of different swabs samples of vaginal secretion, which were gathered each: 1 year 2 months ago, 2 years ago and 5 years ago when the sample was taken when it was positive; the sample in a latex glove with a cut of 0.5 x 1 cm of the middle part with a conservation time of 4 years 5 months, matched with the same positive result. This means that if an adequate conservation of the P30 protein in solid containers is maintained, the results of the tests obtained in sexual crimes will be the same without any alteration. Conclusion: once the investigation was concluded, it was possible to prove that, if there is a good conservation of the P30 protein without letting it get contaminated, when performing another analysis with the same procedure in the laboratory, over the years we will obtain the same results with high reliability; which will be useful when it is necessary and requested by a competent authority to perform a new study in the laboratory of the evidences that served as support at the time to solve a certain crime of rape.

Verónica Paulina Cáceres Manzano , Cecilia Alexandra Cáceres Manzano, José Ramiro Coronel Maji, Albert Fabian uñez Vaca

6-22

Selection criteria for dental pieces for dna extraction bibliographical review

Forensic dentistry has become a highly valuable tool for the identification of perpetrators and unidentified victim corpses in contemporary times. This is primarily applicable in cases where facial or fingerprint identification is not feasible, or as a supplement to the methods. Based on these criteria, a wealth of information has been gathered, demonstrating the significant importance of implementing such forensic dental methods for DNA extraction from dental pieces, as it represents a rapid, reliable process with numerous advantages for the operator. Objective: To investigate and analyze the criteria for selecting suitable dental pieces for DNA extraction, in order to establish a specific selection criterion for dental organs based on the authors cited in the research. Methodology: Information was compiled based on undergraduate and postgraduate studies, high-impact journal articles on forensic dentistry and DNA extraction from dental organs. Samples were selected based on the relevance and currency of the information provided; databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Elsevier, ClinicalKey, ResearchGate, among others, were consulted in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. Conclusions: In conclusion, the methodology developed by forensic dentists is based on comparing ante-mortem information obtained from victims with post-mortem data resulting from medicolegal autopsies. General Field of Study: Forensic Sciences. Specific Field of Study: Forensic Dentistry.

Vanessa Lizbeth Ramirez Tapia, Kamila Giselle Almeida Riofrio, Verónica Paulina Cáceres Manzano , María Eugenia Lucena de Ustáriz

23-38

Determination of substances subject to control in human hair

Introduction: Currently, the determination of controlled substances in hair is a method used in forensic toxicology laboratories, due to its specific characteristics, which provide information that cannot be obtained from the analysis of other biological samples, mainly because of the long detection time achieved with this sample, as well as the ability to establish a chronological profile of drug consumption. Drugs are deposited in human hair through blood circulation by different mechanisms after ingestion or administration, being more stable and therefore can be detected after prolonged periods of time compared to other biological samples, studies indicate that the drug varies along the hair shaft, which is related to the period of abuse.  A number of licit and illicit substances can be detected in human hair, depending on the case, most studies focus their attention on commonly used drugs such as opiates, amphetamines, stimulants, marijuana, cocaine and heroin. Objective: The objective of this study was to determine which controlled substances and methods of analysis are used in the laboratory using human hair as biological material, focusing on a bibliographic review of updated high impact articles.  Methodology: The study used a literature review with a descriptive approach, documentary design, non-experimental, cross-sectional with retrospective chronology. Results: After the analysis it was determined that the toxic substances reach the human hair thanks to the blood circulation being stored in these for long periods of time, to determine a minimum of 1 cm of growth is required, and it is subjected to a treatment which varies according to the protocol used by each laboratory where it is intended to perform it. After the analysis it was determined that the toxic substances reach the human hair thanks to the blood circulation and are stored in them for long periods of time. To determine this, a minimum of 1 cm of growth is required, and it is subjected to a treatment which varies according to the protocol used by each laboratory where it is intended to be performed. To perform this analysis, most laboratories have Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry as the method of choice. The search allowed the consultation of scientific articles and theses obtained from fifteen online databases, published between 2020-2024. Conclusion:  The determination of controlled substances in human hair by various detection methods is a crucial forensic process that provides a unique window to assess an individual's drug use history over time. The combination of advanced analytical techniques allows the identification and quantification of specific substances.

Vanessa Marley Pogo Criollo, Karen Johanna Procel Hidalgo, María Fernanda Razo Romero, José Luis Soto Gallardo

39-53

Human identification in cadavers from Ecuador: advances and challenges in forensic techniques

Introduction. Identification is a comparative process that aims to locate the unknown person in the known biosocial universe. Establishing the identity of the people involved in a criminal act is usually the trigger for a successful investigation, therefore, the collaboration of various forensic disciplines and the use of updated technologies and methods is required. In Ecuador, the delimitation of human identity in corpses has depended on conventional methods such as fingerprinting, forensic odontology and physical anthropology; however, the effectiveness of these techniques is compromised when the remains present significant post-mortem alterations or when comparative records are non-existent or incomplete. In line with the above, the scientific problem lies in the need to overcome the limitations of traditional methods through the integration of advanced technologies and the standardization of forensic protocols that are generally accessible and that provide an immediate response to social progress. Objective. Prepare a systematic bibliographic review of the forensic techniques used in the human identification of corpses in Ecuador, in order to establish the advances and challenges of these methods. Methodology.  It is qualitative narrative, with a type or modality of research depending on the “documentary” source, this is because for the development of this article, updated information was collected and selected from scientific databases, texts and regulatory bodies related to the subject. Results. Through the theoretical bibliographic review carried out of several scientific articles, books and regulatory bodies, it was possible to obtain, at first, current information on the methods of human identification in corpses that are applied by the entities in charge in Ecuador; investigation with which it was possible to make details about the advances and main challenges that these disciplines of criminology are going through today. Conclusion. The methods for identifying corpses that are currently used in the country are varied and depend in part on several factors - the state of the corpse, fragmentation or amputations of limbs, among others - but the one that is most frequently applied is “the technical fingerprint identification”; It is understood that genetics, anthropology or forensic odontology can also be used, as long as the first - routine method - does not allow the categorical, indubitable and infallible identification of the corpse. Regarding the advances and challenges of these methods, it must be noted that most have evolved since their beginnings, they are even betting on improvements from the personal, methodological and technological technical approach; Despite which the challenges must be aimed at optimization and speed with technology in relation to social development.

José Luis Caiza Coello, Robin David Castillo Parra , José Gualberto López Pino, Jonathan Estuardo Moncayo Cevallos

54-75

The use of fingerprinting as a forensic technique for the identification and punishment of crimes related to organized crime.

Introduction. Organized crime groups, some with international ramifications, have become a State problem, both in Ecuador and in other countries. This requires the security and police forces to use the knowledge of legal or forensic medicine to maximize the effectiveness of identifying the perpetrators of crimes and thus enable the justice system to punish them. Among the main resources of forensic medicine is dactyloscopy as a highly effective discipline. Objective. To elaborate a state of the issue of the use of fingerprint as a forensic technique for the identification and consequent action of the justice system in the punishment of crimes related to organized crime. Methodology. Basic, qualitative, exploratory research, through a documentary and bibliographic review of scientific articles, academic theses and other publications on the subject. Results. Organized crime is a reality that has spread throughout the Americas, with ramifications around the world. Its roots sink into complex social situations in the countries, and its development covers a wide variety of activities, among which the situations of sicariato, kidnapping, human trafficking, drug trafficking, extortion and others stand out. In this context, the use of the auxiliary disciplines of forensic medicine, especially dactyloscopy, has become a highly effective tool for the identification of offenders and for the substantiation of criminal justice records. Conclusion. The identification of those responsible for crimes attributed to organized crime is a central task in the preparation of criminal justice files. To do this, forensic medicine specialists have the powerful tools provided by dactyloscopy, which has been key in clarifying many criminal situations.

Lady Fernanda Arias Garofalo, Erika Azucena Chucad Paca, Janneth Estefania Parra Corro

76-90

Forensic entomology as an important tool for solving criminal cases

Introduction. Forensic Entomology serves as a great support in the development of investigations of criminal acts by contributing to the postmortem interval, verifying whether the corpse was transferred, obtaining DNA from the larvae to obtain human DNA and toxicology, being applicable during the stages of decomposition of the corpse where it is important to determine the number and identification of insect and arthropod species in their stages of development; Therefore, this research work objectives to demonstrate the importance of applying this science that currently represents a useful tool when there are cases whose traditional methods do not help with the clarification of the investigations, applying a bibliographic research methodology. As a result, it was obtained that each ecosystem is different and variable, so the decomposition of a corpse will not occur at the same time, as will the insects that appear and develop throughout the decomposition process and as a conclusion, deduced that the cadaveric fauna that develops in a corpse constitutes an important element in the forensic entomological study that allows determining not only the time but also the possible causes of death of an individual.

Joselyn Tatiana Carrasco Tierra, Verónica Fernanda Fuentes Saez, Janeth Patricia Moyón Llamuca, Doris Viviana Pusay Pomatoca

100-110

The importance of forensic chemistry in the detection of illicit substances in biological samples

Introduction: The detection of illicit substances in biological samples is fundamental in the forensic field, with significant implications in criminal investigations and judicial processes. Forensic chemistry plays a crucial role in this context, providing advanced analytical techniques for the identification and quantification of these substances. Objectives: The present study aims to highlight the crucial role that forensic chemistry plays in the identification and quantification of drugs in biological samples.  The reader will be informed about the techniques and analytical tools that forensic chemistry uses to detect substances in biological samples such as blood, urine, organs, and tissue. Methodology: The qualitative research method of bibliographic review was used, which promoted interaction between the participants of the process, allowing the exchange of experiences. The review and collection of data was carried out in the Electronic Scientific Library, including the search for scientific articles in Google academic, Redalyc, PubMed and Elzevir, a reading order of the summaries and keywords was followed. In a search of 30 articles and 1 book. Result: The analysis of the importance, the updated techniques for the analysis and the biological samples to be considered were developed. Conclusions: Finally we can conclude the wide scope that forensic chemistry has in all areas of criminal investigation.General study area: Criminalistics and Forensic Sciences. Specific area of ​​study: Forensic Chemistry. Type of study: Bibliographic Review.

Jasmin Rocio Moncayo Hurtado, Ángela Del Roció Huacho Chalán, José Luis Núñez León, Sandra Elizabeth Satán De Secaira

111-124

Influence of forensic trichology expertise in the investigation of traffic crimes

Introduction. Forensic Trichology is a specialized of criminalistics that is responsable for the study of hair fibres for investigation bodies by analyzing hair found at the scene Objetive. Identify people involved in the accident, unknown victims or those with deteriorated bodies through the analysis of hair found at the scene, providing tangible evidence for the investigation and trial, strengthening. Methodology. Our research is of the explorative type, with which conclusion could be established by deductive method, in turn it has a systematic design because it investigates and identifies the main reasons is not used in traffic criminals; All the information in the research was obtained through bibliographic analysis extracted from different sources in order to identify the importance of this expertise and thus enhance its practice in the criminal field, specifically in traffic criminals. Discussion: The accident rate in our country is high, therefore, the demand for professionals to study and clarify these types of cases is also high, but this is where the problem arises, since the administration of justice faces various circumstances in their path to reaching the truth, obstacles can be overcome with the help of science, having a clear example in forensic trichology. Conclusion: through this study, it has been possible to determine the importance of forensic trichology expertise in the different investigations carried out by the administration of justice around traffic crimes. General Area of Study: Forensic Sciences. Specific area of study: Forensic Trichology Study. Type: Review Article

Iliana Lissette Bautista Martínez, Joselyn Viviana Huilca Villalba, Andrea Jeanneth Meneses Acosta, David Andrés Morales Aguilar

125-135

Restoration of vehicles altered by the conduction method

Introduction. The objective of this research is to devise a novel technique for restoring alphanumeric series in modified vehicles. It is important to emphasize that heat or conduction treatment comprises a series of technical processes aimed at altering the physical, mechanical, and/or chemical properties of materials, primarily steels and metal alloys. During this process, the metal surface targeted for conduction (heat) treatment reverts to its original state as its molecules are compressed by the abrasive action applied to the surface. A method is applied to the crystallographic surface to reveal the alphanumeric series when the metal is filled in the voids and decompressed, displaying the partial or complete series in grayscale, which may have been erased or altered. It is crucial to note that this methodology, or expertise involving induction (heat), cannot be applied to engines made of aluminum, as it may cause the engine to melt or result in damage to various components due to direct heat application to surfaces.Objective. Explore and analyze emerging challenges, techniques, and trends in the restoration of vehicles that have been altered by heat treatments or extreme driving conditions, in order to provide a comprehensive view that serves as a guide for automotive enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Methodology.  The methodology applicable to the following study was carried out by collecting relevant information on heat treatments and their effects on materials used in the automotive industry. Likewise, the study of cases of vehicles that have been altered by heat treatments or extreme driving conditions was used as a basis, culminating in the exhaustive analysis of restorative techniques used by experts in the field. Results. The final result was the technique based on heat or the induction of a fire flame applied directly to a soft metal surface, at a certain temperature, which is applied only to the surface where the alphanumeric series are usually engraved. Conclusion.  This is a novel restoration technique involving the application of identification skills to engravings and serial markings on vehicles, particularly those whose alphanumeric series have been tampered with, either by external abrasive agents on various surfaces or by chemical erasure.

Juan Andrés Silva Masa, Freddy Rodolfo Sánchez Polit, Cristhian Javier Chango Brito, Gabriela Carolina Ulloa Pilliza

136-153

Sexual crimes in the Ecuadorian educational system and its documentary, testimonial and expert evidence

Introduction. School should be a safe space for children and adolescents. In Ecuador, the reality is different, since situations of sexual crimes are becoming public every time. Objective. Analyze the patterns and frequency of sexual crimes in the educational field of the province of Chimborazo, during the period from January 2014 to November 2023. Methodology. Qualitative approach, using hermeneutic, interpretive, historical, dogmatic, and logical methods. A bibliographic review was carried out as the main technique. Results. Many sexual crimes are not prosecuted because they do not fit the criminal category, resulting in a high rate of impunity. Among the recurring crimes are sexual abuse, harassment, rape, statutory rape and child and adolescent pornography. No relationship was found between the sexual crimes reported and the evidence presented. Conclusions. The high rate of impunity observed suggests a significant judicial under-reporting of sexual crimes. The findings highlight the urgent need to implement preventive and early intervention measures to address the recurrence of sexual crimes in the Equatorian educational system. Although no significant correlation was found between reported sexual crimes and the evidence presented, it highlights the importance of strengthening the methods of collecting and analyzing forensic evidence in these cases. General area of study: (Law). Specific area of study: Criminalistics and Forensic Sciences. Type of study: Original articles.

Albert Fabian Nuñez Vaca, María Eugenia Lucena de Ustáriz

154-172

Comprehensive care for adults with motor disabilities

Introduction. The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) determines that comprehensive care for individuals is the main operational expressions of the Primary Health Care (PHC) approach, focused on the need to organize nursing practice in a systematic and scientific manner, to satisfy care needs in all areas supported by knowledge, skills, and abilities. Objective. Determine comprehensive care for adults with motor disabilities. Methodology. This research work will be developed by applying the observational, descriptive, non-experimental methodology, through a documentary review, the scientific documents must be of high impact, in addition to containing information about the individual, family and community in relation to the comprehensive care provided by the formal and informal caregiver. Results. The quality of life is influenced by numerous factors, including as a starting point the satisfaction of needs until reaching self-realization according to the degree of disability. Among the manifestation care, physical care, rest, satisfaction of basic needs with respect are of great relevance. in individual, cultural, religious practices with the sole objective of maintaining calm, pain relief, inclusion, and therapeutic relationship. Conclusion. It is possible to synthesize and organize the existing scientific evidence in relation to comprehensive care for adults with motor disabilities, providing a comprehensive and precise vision of the problem raised.

Lisbeth Paola Guamán Punguil, Viviana del Rocio Mera Herrera

190-208

Impact of facial recognition technology on crime prevention

Introduction: Facial recognition is an artificial intelligence technology that allows automated identification of individuals from images or videos of their faces. Its use by police and security agencies to prevent crime has rapidly increased in recent years. However, this application raises significant ethical concerns related to privacy, protection of personal data, freedom of thought, presumption of innocence, and nondiscrimination. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness and ethical implications of implementing facial recognition technologies in urban environments for crime prevention, providing evidence-based recommendations for responsible application. Methodology: A qualitative systematic review of scientific literature published between 2017 and 2022 on the use of facial recognition in crime prevention was conducted. Sixteen articles meeting predefined eligibility criteria were analyzed, sourced from academic journals in artificial intelligence, law, criminology, and ethics. Results: Reviewed studies suggest that facial recognition is increasingly adopted by security forces in public spaces. While algorithms have achieved high levels of accuracy, evidence of their effectiveness in reducing crime is still limited and mixed. At the same time, significant ethical risks arise, including potential violations of fundamental rights, algorithmic biases, mass surveillance, and erosion of civil liberties. Experts advocate for strict regulations, impact assessments, independent oversight, and public debate to prevent abuses. Conclusion: Facial recognition represents a promising yet controversial tool for crime prevention. Its actual effectiveness remains uncertain, and its ethical risks are significant. A precautionary approach with robust legal and technical safeguards, constant monitoring, and broad social deliberation is required to balance security and freedom. Only responsible and accountable governance will allow harnessing its benefits while respecting human rights. General Study Area: Artificial Intelligence. Specific Study Area: Technology and Crime Prevention. Study Type: Qualitative Systematic Review.

Ligia Piedad Carvajal Ibarra, Diego Lenin Andrade Ulloa

209-221

Histological changes in the pulp tissue to determine the time of deat

Introduction. The histological changes in the pulp after death provide relevant information to determine the post mortem period. Changes such as necrosis, degeneration of the odontoblasts, vascular congestion, etc. occur. These changes are influenced by environmental factors, making the teeth useful biological markers in forensic medicine. Objective. To determine the histological changes at the microscopic level that the pulp tissue undergoes in order to establish the period elapsed after death. Methodology. The research is a non-experimental qualitative approach, descriptive and cross-sectional, which aims to collect and analyze information from relevant bibliographic sources. The selection criteria include: age of the subjects studied (children and adults), publication period (2018-2024), languages (English and Spanish) and type of study (descriptive and systematic search of literature information). Results. The histological changes that are initiated with pulp necrosis give way to processes that, together with bacterial invasion, begin to degrade the tissue; this analysis in the forensic field helps to determine the time of death elapsed, the mineralization that the pulp undergoes helps to determine the age of the corpse. This also represents a tool in criminalistics for the investigation of crimes. Conclusion. The internal pulp tissue of the teeth undergoes histological changes that, when analyzed, are a valuable source of information that contributes to the practice of forensic medicine.

Tania Jacqueline Murillo Pulgar, Verónica Paulina Cáceres Manzano

240-262

Palatine rugae and odontogram useful in forensic odontology

The oral cavity is a valuable source of information for the identification of corpses, palatal rugae is a method that is based on the analysis of the size, shape, position and distribution of elements of the palate, such as palatine rugae, to facilitate forensic processes of ID. Objective: Determine the importance of palatal rugae and the odontogram with utility in forensic odontology. Methodology and results: A qualitative design study, bibliographic review, is carried out, information is collected from various scientific articles, to then analyze and compare and draw conclusions. It was investigated in scientific journals such as: Scielo, national journal of dentistry, PubMed, Innovación & Saber, Elsevier and those selected in Google Scholar, inclusion criteria, articles that relate palatal rugae with the identification of corpses, articles from databases of high impact, free access articles, articles that are from the last 5 years. This practical, fast, economical and effective method in the forensic identification process, if this technique is applied, several of the cases raised by civil, criminal and labor law would be resolved, based on forensic odontology. The palatal rugae are obtained with impressions of the upper jaw in plaster and photographically. Conclusion: These roughnesses present similarities with fingerprints, since they remain unchanged throughout life. They are not affected by prosthetics, do not vary during tooth replacement or tooth loss, and remain relatively stable during orthodontic treatments, with the tongue acting as a protector against impacts. General area of ​​study: Dentistry. Specific area of ​​study: Criminalistics and Forensic Science. Type of study: Article bibliographic review

Daniel Alejandro Pallo López, Verónica Paulina Cáceres Manzano

263-273

Facial recognition as a crime investigation and prevention instrument

Introduction. The facial scanner is a tool that allows the creation of a 3D digital image of the patient's face and teeth, facilitating the analysis of their facial structure to optimize aesthetic results. This device overcomes the limitations of direct methods, which require manual instruments and the patient's cooperation, by offering a fast and accurate way of capturing information in three dimensions. Objective. To investigate the importance and impact of facial scanning technology in the forensic field by means of a bibliographical exploration of its applications, advantages, and limitations to establish its contribution to the study of crime. Methodology. The research presented uses a documentary methodology with a bibliographic design, focused on the collection and analysis of information on the use of facial scanners in forensic investigations. The study is based on the critical review of scientific articles and relevant academic publications, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, and tools such as Mendeley to organize the references. 15 scientific articles were selected under specific criteria, such as relevance to forensic applications of facial scanning, publication in the last 10 years, peer review, and accessibility. Results. As for the results, the history of facial scanning is detailed, which began in the 1960s with the first attempts at identification through facial features. Although the first advances were limited, over time, the development of computer science and facial recognition algorithms allowed the technology to evolve, improving its accuracy and access. Today, the facial scanner is a key tool not only in security and access control, but also in identification in forensic investigations. Conclusion. The facial scanner is a key tool in the identification of individuals in forensic investigations, standing out for its high accuracy and ability to generate detailed three-dimensional images of the face. This technology overcomes the limitations of traditional methods such as DNA and fingerprint analysis, especially in situations where these methods are not applicable due to lack of tissue or conditions that do not allow for its proper collection. Thanks to their high precision, 3D facial scanners can compare the images obtained with facial databases, facilitating rapid and reliable identification in criminal contexts, thus improving efficiency in solving forensic cases. General area of study: Forensic Sciences. Specific area of study: Forensic Dentistry. Type of study: Original articles.

Celso Estalin Garcia Silva, Jose David Mazon Loaiza

274-291