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.

Verónica Paulina Cáceres Manzano , Vanessa Lizbeth Ramirez Tapia, Kamila Giselle Almeida Riofrio

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.

Ángela Del Roció Huacho Chalán, Jazmín Rocío Moncayo Hurtado, 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 Janneth 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