Source Identifying Forensics System, Device, and Method for Multimedia Files

• U.S. Patent # 11,809,482 ​

This invention operates on a digital video file container format, facilitating the identification of class characteristics associated with the device which created the video. The system follows a comprehensive process, beginning with the reception of files. It then proceeds to determine file formats, parse structural elements, and generate signatures. These generated signatures are subsequently matched with known signatures through two distinct processes. The initial step entails a bit-for-bit comparison with all existing known containers in the library. This process frequently results in the identification of multiple matches. The subsequent process refines the matching signature through a Naïve-Bayes classification approach, leveraging both structural signatures and any accessible metadata for probabilistic analysis, ultimately narrowing it down to either a singular source or a limited set of closely matching sources. While this secondary approach has effectively identified sources post-transcoding on popular social media platforms, it's important to acknowledge that the predictive model still requires examiner oversight for a comprehensive understanding of the predictions. The goal is to minimize the need for human intervention, and although successful, ongoing supervision remains essential for a nuanced interpretation of the outcomes.

Quantification of Human Mitochondrial DNA Using Synthesized DNA Standards​

• U.S. Patent # 9,765,400  
• U.S. Patent # 9,080,205  

The invention involves a real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay for precisely quantifying human mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in forensic analysis. It addresses challenges like DNA degradation and PCR inhibitors in samples like hair or calcified tissue. The qPCR assay is highly specific, sensitive, and reproducible, accommodating both low and high copy number samples. The invention utilizes a unique synthetic DNA standard, providing quality control and avoiding topological constraints found in plasmid-based standards. It allows determining mtDNA quantity and quality in a sample before forensic analysis, improving efficiency, and conserving samples for additional analyses. The assay is designed for absolute quantification, exhibiting high sensitivity, specificity, and a wide dynamic range. It aids in directing sample dilution, ensuring assay success, and identifying the minimum mtDNA copies required for forensic analysis. The synthetic standard includes a signature sequence for easy identification and distinguishes it from natural mtDNA sequences, ensuring quality control in forensic laboratories. Additionally, the assay detects PCR inhibitors, prompting sample repurification if needed for accurate mtDNA analysis. 

Potential applications:

• Commercial kit for forensic laboratories​
• Biomedical applications​
• Genealogical testing