Identification of Semen in Sexual Assault Investigations

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary and definitions related to the identification of semen in sexual assault investigations, helping students understand significant concepts from their lecture.

Semen

Fluid containing spermatozoa and secretions from seminal glands, important in sexual assault cases.

Spermatozoa

Male reproductive cells, comprising about 10-25% of semen's composition.

Seminal Fluid

Liquid from the seminal glands, composed mainly of accessory gland secretions.

Presumptive Testing

Initial tests to suggest the presence of semen based on chemical reactions.

Confirmatory Testing

Definitive tests used to confirm the presence of semen.

Acid Phosphatase (AP)

Enzyme found in high concentrations in seminal fluid, used as a marker in forensic testing.

Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)

Protein produced by the prostate, used as a biomarker for semen and prostate cancer.

Oligospermia

Condition of having fewer than 20 million sperm per milliliter of semen.

Aspermia

Absence of sperm in the ejaculate.

Vaginal Swabs

Samples taken from the vaginal area to collect evidence of semen.

Fluorescence Test

Test using UV light to detect flavin compounds in semen.

Ejaculation Volume

Typical range of semen expelled during ejaculation, usually 1-6 mL.

Sperm Density

Concentration of sperm in a given volume of semen, typically expressed as millions per mL.

Barberio Crystal Test

A presumptive test for spermine presence in semen.

Florence Crystal Test

A test to identify choline crystals as an indication of semen.

Semen Stability

The persistence of semen components in various conditions over time.

Postcoital Drainage

The process of finding semen stains after intercourse, important for evidence collection.

Sperm Motility

The ability of sperm to move actively, which is crucial for fertilization.

Physiological Evidence

Evidence collected regarding the physical and biological aspects of sexual assault.

DNA Typing

Method used to analyze genetic material to identify individuals involved in an incident.

Sexual Assault Evidence Kit (SAK)

Collection kit used by healthcare professionals to gather evidence from sexual assault victims.

Neutrophilic Lymphocytes

White blood cells that may ingest sperm cells during the immune response after an assault.

Epididymis

An organ where sperm mature and are stored before ejaculation.

Semenogelin

Major protein in seminal fluid that helps form a gel matrix around sperm.

Mitotic Division

Cell division necessary for producing sperm cells.

Spermatogenesis

Process of sperm cell formation through meiosis.

Immunochromatography

Technique used for separating proteins, including PSA, for testing semen.

Electrophoresis

Method for separating molecules based on size and charge, useful for analyzing sperm.

Criminal Conviction Rate

Percentage of convicted individuals out of total crimes reported, relevant in sexual assault statistics.

Forensic Casework

Legal and investigative work involving the collection and analysis of physical evidence.

Acquaintance Rape

Sexual assault committed by someone known to the victim.

Victim Advocacy

Support provided to victims of crime, including legal assistance and emotional support.