Welcome

Dear Scientist,

How is it already time to think about the holidays? Some of you may probably start panicking…others may think that I am crazy for even mentioning the holidays. But as you’re thinking about gifts you may like – wouldn’t it be exciting to add new 8-dye technology and a Spectrum instrument in your lab?

Caroline Parker of the Forensics Genomics Innovations Hub in Southampton did just that when her lab opened one year ago. In fact, she was one of the first to bring this new technology into her lab. In this issue, you can read about her experience with the Spectrum CE System.

Additionally, you can read a very interesting article about maximizing DNA extraction from traces using the Casework Direct System for estimating DNA methylation levels from Dr. Simona Severini, in Perugia, Italy.

And if you would like to learn more information on successfully extracting DNA from bone samples, be sure to read the article written by The National Forensic Institute of the Netherlands.

If you enjoy podcasts, then you will want to check out “Beyond the Yellow Tape”, which was created by former ISHI Student Ambassador, Nidhi Sheth and her colleague, Julian Beach.

We’ve also included two very interesting posters on the compatibility of Spectrum Compact with 8-dye technology, and on the upcoming 8-dye kit, PowerPlex® 18E System which meets the ENFSI recommendations for DNA profile sharing across Europe. All of the loci are under 350bp in size, and Quality Sensors are included to aid in data interpretation.

Finally, enjoy the profile of Martina Vokurkova-Chocova, our Forensic Regional Account Manager for Central and Eastern Europe. You may even see her at some of the forensic meetings listed on the last page that are taking place next year.

Wishing you a great rest of the year!

Best regards,