bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Faith Commitment and Religious Attitudes: Reviewing Differences in College Student Perspectives
Authors: Cacal Ana , Dumlao Teresita , Aquino Carlota , Caseja Alvin Joseph , Baring Rito
Published: February 2025

Catholic education shares in the evangelizing mission of the Church through the faith formation of young students. The Framework for Student Faith Formation in Catholic Schools sees the need for faith to dialogue with life issues like ecology often articulated in developmental views. Religious communities and the academe are only beginning to make sense of the impact of ecological crises lately. Hence, there is a need to bring ecological discussions that account for college-level appreciation of the environment from a faith perspective. The study sought how students differ in perspectives according to age, gender preference, religious affiliation, and academic program based on perceived Environmental Faith Commitments (EFC) among selected students in a tertiary school in Central Luzon. Secondly, it wants to know how their perceptions differ for religious attitudes in terms of age, gender preference, religious affiliation, and college academic programs. This descriptive quantitative survey will have college students selected through random sampling from various academic programs in a Catholic tertiary school. To analyze data, we checked first for internal consistency of EFC and FSAR by checking for the inter-item correlations of the items and correlations between EFC and FSAR. One-Way ANOVA was used to determine the effects of age, gender, religious affiliation, and academic program towards perceived faith-inspired environmental responses (EFC), and religious attitudes. The results offer insights into the characteristics of college students’ perceptions of faith to the environment. Further, the implications of the results were discussed concerning current efforts of the school to adopt gender and ecologically- sensitive academic programs.
Ang Mabathalang Pag-aaral sa Awiting “Dakilang Maylikha” ayon sa Bersyon ng “Ama Namin” ng Doctrina Cristiana
Authors: Buencibello Joenel
Published: February 2025

Ayon kay Dr. De Mesa, ang bersyon ng Ama Namin sa 1593 Doctrina Cristiana ay nagpapakita ng pangunahing prinsipyo ng pagsasakultura ng teolohiya dahil sa pakikipag-dayalogo ng Hudyo-Kristiyanong Pamana ng Pananampalataya at kulturang Pilipino sa aktuwal na mga salitang ginamit sa dasal na ito. Gamit ang parehas na pamamaraan, ang pag-aaral na ito ay naglalayong basahin ang awiting katha ni Gary Granada na pinamagatang “Dakilang Maylikha” sa lente ng pagsasakultura gamit ang dulog sa mabathalang pag-aaral. Ito rin ay naglalayong bigyan ng sariwang pananaw ang dasal na Ama Namin at ang kagandahang-loob ng Maykapal upang bigyang katuturan ang karanasan, damdamin, at loob ng karaniwang Pilipino.
(According to Dr. De Mesa, the 1593 Doctrina Cristiana version of the Our Father prayer highlights the foundational principle of inculturation theology, as it reflects a dialogue between the Judeo-Christian heritage of faith and Filipino culture through the actual words used in this prayer. Following the same approach, this study aims to analyze Gary Granada’s song Dakilang Maylikha through the lens of inculturation using a culturally sensitive theological study (mabathalang pag-aaral) approach. It also seeks to offer a fresh perspective on the Our Father prayer and the benevolence of the Creator, providing more profound meaning to the experiences, emotions, and inner self of the common Filipino.)
A survey on the mental health status of mild COVID-19 patients and their satisfaction with humanistic care in a square shelter hospital
Authors: Yang Heping , Xu Yuejun , Shao Jinfeng
Published: February 2025

Objective: To explore the effect of humanistic care on COVID-19 mild patients in square shelter hospital, providing a reference for the prevention and control of public health emergencies in future. Method: A total of 295 patients with mild COVID-19 infection admitted to a square shelter hospital in Wuhan from February 5 to February 15, 2020 were selected. The psychological state of the patients was assessed by Zung SelfRating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS) and State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI) at the hospital admission time and discharge time. Humanistic care measures such as heartwarming medical services, life care, psychological counseling, and various relaxation and recreation activities were implemented. The patients were evaluated the levels of satisfaction with the measures at the discharge time. Result: Most of the patients had psychological problems at the beginning of hospitalization, with 95.25% (92.19-97.15%), 55.93% (50.22-61.48%), and 54.92% (49.22-60.50%) suffering panic, anxiety, and insomnia, respectively. Re-evaluation at the discharge time showed that the proportion of the patients who suffered panic reduced to 12.07% (8.65-16.05%), and the proportions with anxiety and insomnia reduced to 9.31% (6.36-12.99%) and 6.90% (4.43-10.24%), respectively. More than 95% of the patients were satisfied with the services provided by physicians and nurses and the psychological counseling services. Conclusion: The humanistic care provided by square shelter hospitals is a key measurement to fight against COVID-19 pandemic. It is worth promoting and applying to other healthcare facilities.
Inpatients' perception of nursing services: a Meta-synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Un Unman , Liu Ming , Yuan Haobin , Wang Yan
Published: February 2025

Objective: To systematically evaluate the perception and experience of inpatients on nursing services. Methods: Studies investigating the perception and experience on nursing services of inpatients with qualitative research design were electronically searched from six databases, including CINAHL, Science Direct, Pub Med, Cochrane Library & JBI, CNKI, and Wan Fang Data from inception to March 2020. The results were evaluated by using the 2016 Australian Quality Assessment Criteria for JBI Evidence-Based Health Care Center and the pooled integration approach to integrate the results. Results: A total of 11 studies were included and synthesized into eight clear sub-categories results; with further analysis and integrations, three final integrated theme categories were: 1. Perception of humanistic care, including three sub-categories: humanistic care behavior and humanistic care environment, nurse-patient communication, and personalized service; 2. Perception of ethical service, including two sub-categories: privacy protection and respect and decision-making process ; and 3. Perception of satisfaction of care needs, including three sub-categories: physical environment needs, pain relief needs, and information needs. Conclusion: Review and reflection on the quality of nursing services and hospital management strategies through patients' real experiences during their hospitalization could provide a basis for formulating comprehensive quality management measures to improve overall nursing service quality.
Research on preventive behaviors of COVID-19 and influencing factors among casino workers in Macao
Authors: Wu Jianwei , Cheong Pak Leng , Van Iat Kio , Wang Hui
Published: February 2025

Objective: To investigate the prevention and influencing factors of COVID-19 among Casino Workers in Macao during the pandemic. Methods: A self-developed COVID-19 preventive behavior scale and influencing factor questionnaire was developed based on literature review. A total of 1,459 Casino Workers in Macao was recruited using quota sampling by occupational composition. Results: The average score of COVID-19 preventive scale was 71.06±9.64, and the average item score was 4.18±0.57(the highest score is 5 points). Among the four dimensions, "personal protection" scored the highest and "health monitoring and promotion" scored the lowest. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that marital status (married), high infectious disease specific health literacy, self-perceived COVID-19 prevention related information helpful, and adequacy of training at workplace were predictors of COVID-19 preventive behaviors, accounting up to 22.3% of all variances. Conclusions: The COVID-19 preventive behaviors among Casino Workers in Macao were generally good, although regular physical exercise and other health monitoring and promotion aspects needed to be improved. The prevention of epidemic was affected by multiple levels, including dissemination of infectious disease specific health literacy, preventive information, reinforcement at workplace, and personal characteristics. The public awareness of infectious disease outbreak should be activated through multiple channels to improve individual preventive behaviors in workers in different industry, such as reinforcing and supporting by organizational training.
Experience of the first-time volunteering service of the hospice volunteers: a qualitative study
Authors: Tang Qian Qian , Zhang Wei , Qin Yuan , Yue Peng
Published: February 2025

The paper explored the authentic experience of the first-time volunteering service of the hospice volunteers with the qualitative research method. We have recruited 11 hospice volunteers from a hospice volunteering team in a hospital in Beijing, using semi-structured interviews and material collection to collect data. Four themes includingstressful experience, comfort experience, benefit experience, and coping strategies for stressful experiences were extracted finally. Hospice volunteering service can have a positive impact on hospice volunteers, so we should promote more publicity. Hospice volunteer organizations should provide targeted support and education for the psychological pressure of hospice volunteers in their first volunteering service.
Problems with the Differentiation of Rubber Stamp Ink Signature Impressions and Written Signatures
Authors: Westwood Paul D. , Radley Robert W.
Published: February 2025

In most cases, the forensic document examiner has little difficulty in recognising a signature impression created by use of an inked rubber (or plastic) embossed stamping device and distinguishing it from a signature written with a liquid ink pen. When such signatures appear on paper bearing a fine complex printed background (such as security printing) the distinguishing features can be less clear cut and in some cases ambiguous. This paper lists the features which may serve to distinguish "rubber" stamp signature impressions from written signatures and discusses how complications such as a printed background can affect the distinguishing features.
Another Look at Handwriting Movement
Authors: Ostrum R. Brent , Tanaka Tobin A.
Published: February 2025

Forensic document examiners usually observe and assess line quality in the written stroke without direct knowledge of the kinematics of the writing instrument used to produce it. Features in handwriting relating to line quality such as speed or pen pressure variation have been described since the days of Osborn. Qualitative assessment of such features by document examiners is routine and made according to well documented principles. In this pilot study, a digitizing tablet with an inking pen was used to measure the movement of a writing instrument as a time series of data points. Handwriting from 15 subjects was obtained using a limited passage of cursive text, basic handwriting movements, and handprinted text. Traditional examiner evaluation of select features was compared to dynamically measured data produced by the writing tablet. The study suggests that this type of handwriting measurement system can be used to test various theoretical aspects relating to both handwriting movement itself and to the examination of that handwriting by document examiners. More specifically, the study demonstrates a new and effective method for the validation of examiners’ abilities regarding the “subjective” assessment of dynamic writing characteristics from a static written record.
The Office Copying Revolution: History, Identification and Preservation
Authors: Bishop Brett M. D.
Published: February 2025

Batterham, Ian (2008). National Archives of Australia, ISBN 978-1-920807-63-4 216 pages, $59.95 AUD
Ink Dating—Comparative Examination of Inks on Documents using Optical and Chemical Methods
Authors: Aginsky Valery N.
Published: February 2025

Comparison of inks on the same or multiple documents is one of the ink dating approaches that determines and compares the physical and optical characteristics (including ink line morphology defects) and chemical composition of writing inks on documents. In this work, writing samples produced by 400 ballpoint pens (200 new and 200 used pens) were examined under the microscope, and the relative frequency of occurrence of various morphology defects, including certain reproducible ink line morphology defects that can be used for the purposes of relative ink dating, was determined. Also, the paper outlines typical case situations in which a comparative examination of inks on documents using optical and chemical methods is used for dating purposes.
Predictors of Disguised and Simulated Handwritten Text
Authors: Bird Carolyne , Found Bryan , Rogers Doug
Published: February 2025

Assessing the authorship of writings created using disguise and simulation behaviour has been reported to be problematic for forensic handwriting experts (FHEs). When examining questioned disguised and simulated samples and providing an opinion on process, a propensity has been found for calling simulated samples disguised. These results suggest that FHEs’ expectations of the predictor features of these unnatural writing types are not accurate. This paper investigates the relationship between FHEs’ responses on the process of production of questioned disguised and simulated handwriting samples and their verbal statements relating to the features they observed as indicative of the particular unnatural writing behaviour. A clear relationship between these will enable elucidation of predictor features of disguised versus simulated writings. Results suggest that the identification of altered slope in a questioned sample when compared to a naturally written sample may be a predictor of disguise behaviour. Features of construction and the presence of tremor may be used as predictors of simulation behaviour in questioned samples. However, the diversity in disguise strategies employed and the discordant responses of FHEs impose limitations on the analysis undertaken. A predictor model could be created based on the results of a concordant group of experts and would require testing on a validation set.
Shredded Document Reconstruction
Authors: Moryan Donald
Published: February 2025

A technical note that discusses one method of reconstructing shredded documents. Along with the preferred method and procedures of reconstructing shredded documents, a short history of paper shredders and different types of paper shredders are presented.
Arabic-Illiterate Forensic Handwriting Analysis: A Pilot Study to Further Investigate the Ability of Arabic-Illiterate Examiners to Judge theAccuracy of Simulations of ArabicSignatures, Compared with Arabic-Literate Examiners
Authors: Alkahtani Abdulaziz Al-Musa
Published: February 2025

This article extends the study in Al-Musa (2010) examining whether forensic handwriting examiners (FHEs) who are illiterate in Arabic can detect Arabic forgeries as accurately as FHEs who have native fluency in Arabic. Because large numbers of real forgeries are difficult to find, the forgery data in these two pilot studies consisted of simulations, produced by 100 native Arabic writers, of two Arabic signatures. Two experienced Arabic-literate FHEs and two experienced Arabic-illiterate FHEs then judged the accuracy of these simulations, using standard forensic handwriting analysis methods. Their judgments of four narrow elements of the simulations (Size, Spacing, Arrangement, and Slant), as well as two of the broader elements studied in the 2010 article (Form and Line Quality), were compared. As in the earlier study, the judgments of Arabic-literate FHEs did not differ significantly from those of Arabic- illiterate FHEs (p  0.05). Thus, a second statistical study adds support to a widespread view held by FHEs, based on anecdote and experience, that literacy in a script is not needed to detect forgery in that script. Other considerations, however, suggest that a native writer of a script may have advantages over an illiterate in that script in conducting forensic handwriting analysis.
Effect of DNA Tape Lifting on the Ability of the ESDA® to Recover Latent Indentations in Paper1
Authors: Holt Melanie , Sears Alison , Lennard Chris
Published: February 2025

Questioned documents are often received into forensic laboratories requiring examinations for both trace DNA and latent indentations using an electrostatic detection device (EDD) such as the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA®). Such documents can include extortion notes, threatening letters, drug ledgers and paper items related to white powder incidents, to name a few. Debate often arises as to which of the various examinations should be undertaken first. Assessments regarding examination sequencing need to be made on a case-by-case basis with the knowledge that each examination has the potential to compromise others. This article focuses specifically on the effect that the tape lifting process has on the ability of the ESDA to recover latent indentations in paper. The research showed that the tape lifting process had a detrimental effect on the ability of the ESDA to recover and develop latent indentations. At worst, the tape lift can cause tears and areas of the paper’s surface to be lifted whilst at the same time effectively ‘masking’ the indentations, making them difficult for the ESDA to detect. At best, there is fibre disturbance that results in the development of background noise on the ESDA lift; this reduces visibility, definition and legibility of the developed indentations. Given these results, in cases where it is decided that both examinations are required, the ESDA examination should be conducted prior to tape lifting for trace DNA.
The Loeb-Leopold Case
Authors: Wood J. Fordyce
Published: February 2025

Reprinted by special permission of Northwestern University School of Law, originally published in American Journal of Police Science, Vol. 1, No. 4 (Jul.-Aug., 1930), pp 339-352.
A Study of Various Factors Affecting Stamp Identification
Authors: Pang Chi-Ming , Hui Janesse W.S. , Li Chi-Keung
Published: February 2025

Stamp identification is performed by matching unique defects present on the stamp face to those on the impressions. Unique defects are usually introduced onto the stamp face through wear, tear, and day-to-day usage. Defects can also be introduced at the manufacturing stage. However, depending on the cause, these can be either unique to an individual stamp or apparent in all stamps produced using that particular mold. In addition to defects, other essential factors that should be considered when undertaking a stamp examination are explored in this paper. These include: stamp shrinkage rates during normal use and how these rates are affected by changes in temperature and humidity, the effects of stamp re-inking, the effect of sunlight on the appearance of stamp impressions, the possibility of a duplicate stamp being used to make a questioned impression, and the “smudging” effect. The paper also discusses the significance these factors should be given when formulating opinions.
Dating Water-Based Inks on Documents—Rollerball Pen Inks Containing Pyrrolidone
Authors: Aginsky Valery N.
Published: February 2025

The ink aging methodology that is based on measuring a gradual loss (due to evaporation and diffusion into paper) of high boiling solvents from ink on paper has been extensively published and its capabilities, limitations, and scope of applicability discussed in scientific literature. This paper describes an application of this ink aging methodology to the dating of the rollerball inks that contain the high boiling solvent 2-pyrrolidone (2-PD). This work is a continuation of multiple published works that studied natural aging on paper of both oil/glycol-based inks (conventional ballpoint inks) and water-based inks (rollerball and gel ballpoint pen, felt tip pen, stamp pad, and inkjet inks). The goal of this work was to study the natural aging of rollerball inks on paper by monitoring a gradual loss of 2-PD—a high boiling solvent that is used, along with water, for manufacturing Pilot® rollerball pen and other water-based inks. The results of this work show that, at normal environmental conditions, the rate of the loss of the solvent 2-PD from inks after their placement on paper, as well as from paper in close proximity (immediately next) to the inks’ strokes, may correlate with the age of the inks during up to 12 months following the application of the inks to paper (the natural aging curves “Content of 2-PD—Age of Ink” obtained for the inks tested in this study leveled off within less than 6 months, when single ink lines were tested, and within less than 12 months, when ‘thick’ layers of ink on paper, such as the areas of retracing and intersection of two ink lines were tested). It is important to note that the ink-aging analysis of the ink in the areas of retracing and intersection of two ink lines is only applicable for certain types of water-based inks, such as rollerball inks, that produce ink strokes homogeneously filled with ink within the confines of ink lines. Thus, a monitoring of the gradual loss (with age) of 2-PD both from ‘thick’ lines of inks on paper and from paper in close proximity to the inks’ lines allows one to distinguish between fresh (less than 12 months old) and old (significantly older than one year) entries written with rollerball inks.
A preliminary study of 3D depth measurement of the grooves generated by three different pens for handwriting
Authors: Dellavalle Francesco , Frontini Sergio
Published: February 2025

In order to produce a handwritten graphic trace, contact between the tip of the writing instrument and the writing medium is required. The pressure of the pen tip on the paper is necessary to ensure that there is a transfer of ink on paper, depending upon the writing instrument, the paper, the writing surface, and the author’s habit, more or less pressure will be exerted when this contact is made.
In the field of forensics, the effort exerted by the writing hand is evaluated by the intensity perceived in the color and amplitude of the graphic pattern, over the depth of the groove visible on the back of the sheet.
The inking of the stroke might not be directly correlated with the degree of indentation in the paper.
For example, it may happen that the inking of the stroke is not directly correlated with the level of depth of the groove in the paper, therefore could be due to defects of the graphic medium dispensing, or by the speed of the movement of the hand of the writer.
The measure of the depth of a writing groove and the measure of the relative pressure variation along a graphic pattern may constitute an important fact for the forensic examination of documents.
The subject of this article is therefore a first metrological approach that aims to quantitatively define for any given “writing means” (i.e., pens) and “writing medium” (inks):

the differences in degree of indentation for the same individual;
the differences in degree of indentation, if any, for different individuals;
the absolute limits that the degree of indentation can vary continuously.
Kinematic Validation of FDE Determinations about Writership in Handwriting Examination: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Caligiuri Michael , Mohammed Linton , Lanners Brenda , Hunter Gina
Published: February 2025

As with many of the forensic disciplines that rely on feature-comparison methods, there is no “gold standard” against which to test accuracy of handwriting examination. This study examined differences in kinematic features between pairs of handwriting exemplars judged to be from the same writer and compared them with differences in kinematic features for pairs of handwriting exemplars judged to be from different writers. We hypothesized that differences in kinematic features between pairs of handwriting exemplars judged to be from the same writer would be nonsignificant; whereas differences in kinematic features for pairs of handwriting exemplars judged to be from different writers would be statistically significant. Cursive, script and block print handwriting samples were obtained from 37 writers who were asked to write a single word ten times each. High resolution (600 ppi) scanned copies of the original ink and paper samples were submitted to four experienced forensic document examiners (FDEs) for writership determinations. Each score sheet included 5 known (K) handwritten samples and two questioned samples (Q1 and Q2). FDEs were asked to rate the evidence in support for the proposition that the Q samples were written by the K writer using a 4-point scale (ranging from limited or weak support to very strong support for the proposition). Kinematic difference scores derived from dynamic analysis of the handwritten strokes were converted to absolute standardized z-scores with larger z-score reflecting greater differences between K and Q for a given kinematic feature. Findings revealed that several kinematic handwriting features were significantly associated with accurate FDE opinions of acceptance and rejection of the proposition. Significant features included pen pressure, stroke velocity, and straightness variability. Correlational analyses revealed strong associations between specific dynamically recorded stroke features and FDE judgments of writership; particularly for pen pressure and straightness. Results support the use of an independent quantitative measure of feature comparison as a tool for evaluating the foundational validity of subjective feature comparison methods experts use when reaching conclusions about writership.
Spray paint writings on walls: Is conventional reference material adequate for comparison?
Authors: Cadola Liv , Cuany Sandrine , Weyermann Céline , Marquis Raymond
Published: February 2025

Forensic document experts may be asked to examine questioned items written with spray paint on vertical surfaces. In such cases, they may not have available reference material written under similar conditions. A critical question follows: is conventional reference material (e.g. executed with a ballpoint pen on a paper placed horizontally) suitable for comparison? In order to investigate the influence of this particular writing condition, samples written with spray paint on vertical surfaces were compared to samples written on paper by a same writer. This comparison was carried out on the writings of 27 volunteers. The results have shown that the amount of similarities between both writing conditions was strongly dependent on the writer. Overall, while some similarities in style (script, cursive), shape and construction of letters were observed, several discordances in connections, slant, spacing, size and proportions were highlighted between both writing conditions. Therefore, the findings of this study stress out the need for reference material produced under similar conditions when examining questioned spray paint writings on vertical surfaces.
Class Characteristics of Hand Printing
Authors: Schuetzner Ellen Mulcrone
Published: February 2025

In an examination of hand printing, it may be necessary for the Forensic Document Examiner to check standards of hand printed systems. This paper catalogs 38 identified systems of hand printing.Upper and lower case letterforms are drawn out and labeled according to an identified copy book system of hand printing.
Assessing the Repeatability and Reproducibility of Magnetic Flux Measurements and their Potential to Discriminate Toner Printed Documents
Authors: Polston Carrie , Mazzella Williams , Furbach Martin , Buzzini Patrick
Published: February 2025

Toner printed documents are commonly submitted for forensic examination, yet some of the methods currently applied to these samples are generally costly, time-consuming, and often provide inconclusive results. The need has been acknowledged for an analytical method which can be applied to toner printed documents which is quick, inexpensive, provides information that is complementary to other techniques, and aides in discriminating toners. The purpose of this study is to evaluate magnetic flux measurements with the following goals: (1) to assess whether magnetic flux measurements can be correlated to toner area; (2) to determine if magnetic flux values remain stable over time; and (3) to normalize magnetic flux measurements of samples with variable text and print features. The magnetic properties of documents produced by 5 electrophotography devices were measured and compared to results obtained one year prior. The area for each measurement was determined using image processing software, and the flux was plotted as a function of toner area to assess the potential relationship. A representative population of 150 toner samples was then assessed using the magnetic flux as a function of toner area as a normalizing unit to determine if significant variation could be observed. The results indicate that magnetic flux does remain stable over time and that there is a relationship between toner area and magnetic flux. The relationship between toner area and magnetic flux allowed for the normalization of data and assisted in comparison of samples with variable text and print features, which is necessary for casework application. The variation present in the population distribution was great enough to allow for discrimination based on magnetic flux measurement. Magnetic flux measurement is promising as an efficient, non-destructive method to aid in the discrimination of toner printed documents.
Figuring It Out
Authors: Giles Audrey
Published: February 2025

Identifying records of drug dealing transactions inevitably leads to the examination of scraps of paper bearing only figures. In order to assess how variable individuals are when writing figures, a number of writings were classified and the number of variations assessed. Some figures, for example, the figure 4, proved to be a better indication of authorship than others.
Shandon Xylene Substitute in Document Examinations
Authors: Licht Gary , Brown Jerry
Published: February 2025

A variety of practical applications were found for Shandon Xylene Substitute in the examination of questioned documents. This product is marketed as a non-carcinogenic substitute for xylenes, but does not have quite the same properties. The most useful properties of this xylene substitute are that it is non-destructive to inks, paper and plastics, is less volatile than xylene, and is only a weak solventof correction fluids. Its principal uses here have been to make paper translucent, thereby allowing obliterated writings to be read through the back side of the page. This translucent state also allows infrared examinations through the paper. Applications were made to cases involving obliterations made with correction fluids, overwritings, ink, and multiple layers of these materials. Shandon Xylene Substitute does not affect indented writings and ESDA examinations. It evaporates without leaving any odor, discoloration, or distortion.
ESDA Cascade Developer Awareness
Authors: Cavanaugh, Jr. Melvin Henry , Torres Barbara L. , Grose Wesley P.
Published: February 2025

This paper provides additional information for use of the ESDA.
The Identification of Colour Photocopiers: A Case Study
Authors: Li C.K. , Leung S.C.
Published: February 2025

This paper reports the discovery of dotted patterns on photocopies of Hong Kong $500 banknotes seized in a clandestine workshop and the utilization of the matrix of dots for the identification the Rank Xerox colour photocopying machine used for counterfeiting the banknotes. A survey on various models of colour photocopies of the Canon and Ricoh brands resulted in the observation of dotted motifs on photocopies from the high-ended models of the Canon copiers. These dotted motifs are probably also identification marks.
Retail Price Marking Devices: Breakaway Slits and Type Fonts
Authors: Lauterbach Joyce A.
Published: February 2025

There are currently four major manufacturers and/or distributors of hand-held pricing guns and labels. A fifth manufacturer makes a generic pricing gun and label that may be marketed under the name of several distributors. Class characteristics of labels manufactured by each company depends primarily on recognition of the design of tamper-proof or break away slits, and recognition of the standard font style for numbering.
Measuring Relative Pen Pressure to Authenticate Signatures
Authors: Estabrooks Colin B.
Published: February 2025

This study exploits the capacity of the confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) to accurately measure the z-axis of pen pressure indentations in paper. Depth values measured at various sites of signatures are compared to the maximum depth of each signature. By measuring these “relative” depth values of multiple genuine signatures, a writer’s master pattern of pen pressure emphasis can be uniquely portrayed in a quantified manner. “Relative” depth values of simulated and traced signatures are similarly measured and are generally found to be clearly distinguishable from genuine signatures.
The Effect of Sunlight and Fluorescent Tube Light on Inks and Papers
Authors: Vos Marta E. , Strach Steven J. , Westwood Paul D.
Published: February 2025

Following a case involving claimed sunlight effects on paper and ink, and a document examination conclusion suggesting chemical erasure, paper, and ink from various sources were subjected over various periods of time to radiation from sunlight through a window and to radiation from a room fluorescent tube light. All of the papers tested showed a darkening, and most showed a reduction of UV stimulated blue luminescence (fluorescence) and blue light stimulated red luminescence following exposure to sunlight. All of the inks showed changes in apparent optical absorption of light following exposure to sunlight, with some showing dramatic changes of colour, infrared absorption, and luminescence properties. None of the papers or inks tested showed any detectable change upon exposure to the fluorescent tube light. Document examiners should be aware of environmental effects such as sunlight causing changes in the optical properties of paper and inks which potentially might be misinterpreted as a difference in type of paper or ink, or wrongly ascribed to the effects of chemical erasure.
Digital Reconstruction of Torn Paper
Authors: Hammond Derek L.
Published: February 2025

Utilizing current digital technology, specifically Adobe® Photoshop®, a technique is described to assist Forensic Document Examiners in the reconstruction of torn paper. The methodology described overcomes the shortcomings of previous methodologies while maintaining the integrity of the evidence for future forensic examinations/comparison.
Association of Counterfeit Documents to a Printing Plate by Means of Halftone Dots
Authors: Mohammed Linton A. , Jenkinson George G.
Published: February 2025

Several printing plates, proofs, suspect documents and genuine documents were submitted for examination. Comparison of the printing established that the suspect documents were counterfeit. Comparison of the halftone dots to the printing plates, proofs and suspect documents under high magnification (X80) established a similarity in the numbers, shapes, sizes and connectivity of the dots. Using these patterns, it was possible to distinguish between 6 equivalent images on the cyan printing plate and to say which was associated with a specific suspect document. A determination could be made that the printing plates, proofs and suspect documents shared a common source.
Ink Differentiation for the Fiscally Challenged
Authors: Drexler Steven G. , Smith Geoffry
Published: February 2025

Being asked to distinguish between two or more inks that may have been used to alter a document is a common problem posed to the Forensic Document Examiner. In today’s modern laboratory, sophisticated instruments have been made available, such as the VSC- 4 and VSC2000, manufactured by Foster & Freeman, Worcestershire, England, that are specifically designed to aid in the differentiation of inks. However, the considerable expense may make these instruments unavailable to many government and private laboratories. The present study introduces a low cost ink differentiation system, comprised of simple commercially available components, and tests its ability to distinguish between various black inks.
Impression By Traced Forgery
Authors: Kullman Robert D. , Sinke Michael , Speckin Erich
Published: February 2025

In the effort to determine whether it was possible to successfully “forge” indented impressions, 39 individuals were asked to trace entries on a prepared form. An Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA) was used to develop indented impressions created by the tracings. The developed impressions were then compared to the prepared entries. The research indicated that fully developed ESDA impressions that consist of more than a short single stroke were readily identifiable as the product of original writing or the product of tracing. Additionally, many impressions consisting of short single strokes were also detectable as authentic impressions or traced forgeries. Further, weak ESDA impressions of more than 2 letters or formations were also identifiable as “forged” tracings.
Habits Observed In Naturally Written Numbers
Authors: Kelly Jan Seaman
Published: February 2025

Naturally written numbers tend to be individualized to a particular writer as they depart from the copybook style. Initial and ending strokes, ornamentation, design simplification, overall slant and the interrelationship of component parts in the more complex digits “2,” “3,” “4,” “6,” “8,” and “9” comprise these basic qualities. This paper will explore the formation of naturally written numbers and the frequency of occurrence of at least one set of numbers connected by the writer in their three-page exemplar. Two hundred participants completed a four-page exemplar consisting of three pages of naturally executed numbers and one page of disguised numbers. For this study, the three pages of naturally written numbers were examined and percentages determined as to frequency of occurrence of habits observed in the three-page exemplars. Out of the 200 participants in this study, 37% connected at least one set of numbers using a connecting stroke. The percentage of writers using the snowman “8” and the crossbar “7” were also assessed. This paper lists the combinations of numbers connected by a connecting stroke and the percentage of usage of specific number formations.
The Greatest Handwriting Mystery ofthe Eighteenth CenturyThe Junius Letters
Authors: Hicks A. Frank
Published: February 2025

Between January 21, 1769, and January 21, 1772, a series of letters were published in a London newspaper. These letters were highly critical of King George and the British government. Although the letters were signed with several different names, they collectively came to be called “The Letters of Junius.” The true identity of Junius remained a mystery for decades after the letters’ publication. Many people conducted their own investigations in an attempt to identify Junius. Most of these investigations were not directed toward any handwriting comparisons. However, in 1868, a “general Expert in handwriting” named Charles Chabot was hired specifically to conduct handwriting comparisons in this matter. Chabot’s reports were published in 1871. His examination techniques and reasoning processes provide ample evidence of his skills in this area and lend significance to his identification of the writer of the Junius letters. His explanations of the manner in which he conducted his comparisons also reveal that the principles used by today’s Forensic Document Examiners originated much earlier than generally thought.
Effects of Water Temperature vs. Time inHumidifying Documents for Electrostatic Detection Apparatus Examination
Authors: Beal Bonnie L.
Published: February 2025

Forensic Document Examiners (FDE) use different time intervals and water temperatures when humidifying documents before examining them with the Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA). The purpose of this study was to determine the optimal conditions when humidifying documents for an ESDA examination, for a laboratory that does not utilize a temperature and humidity controlled ESDA room, by using the variables of water temperature and time. The study was conducted using the conditions set forth in the ESDA instruction manual by Foster and Freeman except for changes noted in this paper. The best conditions varied depending on the type of writing instrument and the paper layer examined. Overall, the ideal water temperature and time combination was 55° F for ten minutes.
Lineup: The Reliability of Examinations Involving Multiple Writers
Authors: Parrett David L. , Szabo Garry
Published: February 2025

A 1999 United States District Court ruling suggested possible bias in one-on-one questioned to known suspect document examinations. The ruling was, in part, a result of document examination critic Mark Denbeaux’s assertion that an examination of the writing of several persons similar to a police “lineup” might produce a different opinion by the examiner. In contrast to the traditional police “lineup” of a few individuals, this study employed the writing of 1,000 “suspects.” Four examiners were provided a questioned document consisting of a “London Letter.” They were given the task of determining if the questioned author’s handwriting was among the 1,000 “London Letters” gathered from different writers. All four examiners, encompassing a wide range of experience, reached definitive correct conclusions.
Dichroic Filters: Their Use in Questioned Document Examinations
Authors: Richards Gerald B.
Published: February 2025

This paper provides a description and history of dichroic filters as they have been adapted and used by the forensic document examiner. In addition, an explanation is provided as to how the filters function in conjunction with the human eye or electronic imaging devise. Different types of filters and their sources are fully described.
Recent Advances in Nanomedicine
Authors: Veera Naga Lalitha Nakkina  , Hyndavi Trylockya Nagumantri  , Ravi Prakash Degala
Published: February 2025

Nanomedicine has emerged as a transformative field at the intersection of nanotechnology and medical science, operating at the molecular scale to revolutionize healthcare delivery. The integration of engineered nanostructures with biological systems has enabled precise drug delivery mechanisms, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and innovative therapeutic approaches. Sophisticated nanocarriers and smart materials have demonstrated remarkable success in targeted drug delivery, particularly in cancer treatment, where they effectively overcome biological barriers while minimizing systemic toxicity. Advanced nanoplatforms have facilitated real-time disease monitoring, early detection of biomarkers, and personalized therapeutic interventions. The field has progressed significantly in developing nano-based vaccines, neurological treatments, and cardiovascular applications. Artificial intelligence and machine learning integration have accelerated the development of tailored therapeutic strategies. However, significant challenges persist in scalability, manufacturing standardization, and regulatory compliance. Safety considerations, including long-term toxicological effects and environmental impact, remain critical areas requiring thorough investigation. Recent innovations in nano-bioengineering and molecular imaging have opened new avenues for treating previously intractable diseases. The convergence of multiple scientific disciplines in nanomedicine continues to drive innovations in drug delivery, diagnostics, and regenerative medicine, promising more effective and personalized healthcare solutions for diverse medical conditions.
Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antihyperlipidemic Effects of a Novel Polyherbal Formulation in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Gayathri Devi Setti  , Govindarao Kamala  , Sujatha Gorle  , Ramyasri Bura
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus represents a significant global health challenge, with conventional treatments often associated with limitations and adverse effects. This study investigated the antidiabetic potential of a novel polyherbal formulation comprising Cinnamomum zeylanicum bark, Eugenia jambolana seeds, Vinca rosea whole plant, and Gymnema sylvestre leaves. The formulation was prepared using standardized ethanolic extracts in various ratios and evaluated in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Acute toxicity studies demonstrated the safety of the formulation up to 2000 mg/kg body weight. The antidiabetic activity was assessed at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg body weight, with glibenclamide (5 mg/kg) as the standard drug. The polyherbal formulation exhibited significant glucose-lowering effects in both normal and diabetic rats, with the 400 mg/kg dose showing optimal results. After 28 days of treatment, the formulation significantly reduced blood glucose levels and improved lipid profiles, showing comparable efficacy to glibenclamide. The formulation also demonstrated remarkable antihyperlipidemic activity, effectively reducing triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL while increasing HDL levels. Biochemical parameters showed significant improvement, indicating enhanced metabolic regulation. This research work shows that this polyherbal formulation can serve as a viable therapeutic alternative for managing diabetes mellitus and associated complications.
The Effectiveness of Staff Capacity Building on Integration of CBET Approach in TVET Institutions in the North Rift Region, Kenya
Authors: Kogo Wilson Kipngetich , Kapkiai Moses , Chumba Sammy K.
Published: February 2025

The relevance of training is critical since it ensures that the labour market is as efficient as possible and that human capital is effectively utilized. The major purpose of this study was to establish the effectiveness of staff capacity building for effective integration of CBET. The study adopted the Diffusion of Innovation Theory developed by Rogers in 2003. The study utilized the descriptive survey research design. The study was undertaken in TVET institutions in the North Rift Region, Kenya. The study targeted principals, industry supervisors, trainers, industrial liaisons officers, lecturers and trainees. The sample size was 636 respondents. Purposive sampling technique was used to select 6 principals and 18 industry supervisors. To identify 285 trainers a combination of stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques were used. The instruments for data collection were interview schedules and questionnaires. Questionnaires were administered to the trainees and trainers while interview schedules were carried out on Principals, industrial supervisors and industrial liaisons officers. The data was analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations and Pearson product moment correlation. The study found out that, facilities and resources that could aid in capacity building were not adequate for the trainers. Appraisals that are very essential in regards to capacity building were not effectively done thus making it difficult to identify the inherent gaps in the CBET approach. The correlation coefficient between staff capacity building and integration of CBET in TVET was 0.612 indicating a strong effect size. This correlation indicates that as staff capacity building increases, integration of CBET in TVET institution tends to increase. The findings will be significant to the government policy makers, managers in TVET institutions and industries involved in the transformation of TVET institutions