There is an increasing utilisation of Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) in modern society. In the field of forensic DNA profile analysis, the use of ANNs to aid in the classification of peak data within casework electropherograms (EPG) has recently been described. Prior to implementation, an ANN must be created, trained, and adjusted until an acceptable level of performance is obtained. The training of an ANN for the classification of DNA profiles is undertaken using a supervised learning approach. In principle, DNA profile data manually labelled by an analyst comprise a training dataset where the ANN learns the features of EPG data and discerns the ‘correct’ type of peak classification to be assigned. Various factors of the training regimen impact the overall performance of the ANN. These include: the number of epochs (training cycles), the size of the training (and validation) dataset, the types of EPG data used for training, and the composition (different types of profiles) of the training dataset.
Brittney Svoboda will present on the above study at ISHI this September.
Can you give us a sneak peek into the main theme of your presentation and why it’s important for our audience?
We evaluated past sexual assault cases to determine which types of samples yield the best quality profiles, for CODIS purposes, but also in general.
What inspired you to explore the topic of your presentation?
We used to focus so much on the presence/absence of seminal material. More recently we have developed better profiles from various areas on the victim’s body that the suspect encountered. So even in cases where we couldn’t identify seminal material, we are able to develop quality, CODIS eligible profiles.
How do you hope your presentation will impact the audience or industry?
Hope it helps guide analysts when processing sexual assault evidence and selecting which items to test.
When you’re not working, what’s your favorite way to unwind or relax?
Go for a run
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t stress over things you cannot change
If you could only eat one dish for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chicken alfredo
What were you doing in 1989, when ISHI first started?
I was born in 1989
Can you share a memorable moment from ISHI that has stayed with you?
This is my first year attending!
