Do low template DNA profiles have useful quantitative data?. (May 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Taylor, Duncan; Buckleton, John
• Is Part Of: Forensic science international. Volume 16(2015:May)
• Page Start: 13
• Page End: 16
• Publication Date: 2015-05
• Subjects: DNA profile interpretation -- Mixtures -- Likelihood ratios -- Low template -- Continuous models; Forensic genetics -- Periodicals; Génétique légale -- Périodiques; Forensic genetics; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2014.11.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1872-4973

Abstract

Abstract: A set of low template mixed DNA profiles with known ground truths was examined using software that utilised peak heights (STRmix™ V2.3) and an adapted version that did not use peak heights and mimicked models based on a drop-out probability[1, 2] (known as semi-continuous or 'drop' models) (STRmix™ lite). The use of peak heights increased the LR when H p was true in the vast majority of cases. The effect was most notable at moderate template levels but was also present at quite low template levels. There is no level at which we can say that height information is totally uninformative. Even at the lowest levels the bulk of the data show some improvement from the inclusion of peak height information.