Chapter 1 is concerned with the rapid growth of forensic DNA identification systems, which replaced outdated and inadequate forensic ABO blood methods. The success of DNA profiling/fingerprinting led to significant introduction of new legislation in the US & UK. The exploitation of DNA technology has other beneficial uses such as identifying genes that are linked to diseases. Finally, although the benefits of DNA technology are well documented there is little known about the problems associated with this applied science.
Chapter 2 outline a step-by-step approach of the methods employed in DNA analysis in a simplified manner using simple analogies at appropriate places. This will help to reduce the scientific jargon used in this process and will give the reader the opportunity to appreciate DNA profiling technology with the use of images.
Chapter 3 begins with an explanation of the statistics employed in DNA typing, such as probability and likelihood ratios. This is followed by an appreciation of error type formula called false positives, which is used in laboratory environments for assessing quality control procedures. This chapter also explores the role of statistics in population studies and associated risk assessments of identifying individuals.
Chapter 4 focuses on the legal issues regarding regulatory framework of using DNA profiling. Surprisingly in the early history of DNA profiling very few laws were employed on the setting up of DNA laboratories for forensic identification. Consequently there is a loose regulatory framework on the role of an expert witness and serious implications concerning DNA profiling and the importance of crime related cases such as murder. A comparison of UK legislative framework on DNA profiling and other countries is also examined. Furthermore, a description on how the law has changed due to problems associated with DNA profiling was also being investigated.
Chapter 5 is mainly concerned with the analysis and interpretation of DNA profiling, highlighting some of the main problems. An explanation of how these problems have arisen and possible approaches of dealing with them has also been explored. In addition, there is a focus on the interpretation of the results, which can be subjective rather than objective; examples are given to demonstrate any anomalous interpretations.
Chapter 6 concludes on all the above chapters and makes recommendations on how to improve the use of DNA technology currently used for identification purposes.
Finally, there is an appendices section, which raises questions concerning DNA typing from a non-legal or legal standpoint. Furthermore, the appendices section deals with ethical questions concerning DNA typing issues and outline a DNA programme for the training of Judges & Magistrates. Finally, the latter part of the appendices lists a summary of recommendations, contents of all tables, diagrams and figures within this book.
More detailed information concerning the above can be sought, from purchasing the book "Errors, Systematic Errors & DNA". Limited free advice and support are given to those individuals whom purchased the book from this website.
Copyright© 2008 DrParker
