Relationship of Hair Characteristics and Two Largest Ethnic in Malaysia
- Author:
Rafina Mimi Muhamad
;
Pua Hiang
;
Atiah Ayunni Abdul Ghani
;
Balkhis Bashuri
;
Abdul Aziz Ishak
;
Khairul Osman
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Forensic science, hair, race, cuticle scales, medulla
- From:Malaysian Journal of Health Sciences
2012;10(2):19-23
- CountryMalaysia
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Determination of races in the analysis of hair on scalp is one of the challenges faced in forensic analysis to identify
victims, suspects and crime scene. This study aimed to determine the differences among the two main races in Malaysia
which included Malay and Chinese, through the examination of the characteristics of hair. These includes general features
of the hair, patterns of cuticle, colors, cortex pigment distribution and characteristics of medulla - types, thickness and
medulla index. This study was carried out by using a light microscope and consisted of five steps, which were sample
preparation, examination of common features of hair, preparation and examination of cuticle scales matrix, cortex and
medulla. Result showed that most of the Malay have dark brown pigments while Chinese have pigments of light brown
color. We also noted that thickness of medulla can also be used to differentiate between Malay and Chinese where average
values for Malay and Chinese are 7.59 ± 1.45 μm and 9.12 ± 1.85 μm, respectively. The average values of medulla index
for Malay and Chinese were noticeably different at 0.17 ± 0.02 μm and 0.18 ± 0.02 μm, respectively. However, textures,
thickness of hair, patterns of cuticle scales, and types of medulla do not show any significant difference between Malay and
Chinese. In conclusion, this study has shown that pigment colors, thickness of medulla and medulla index are important
characteristics that can be used to determine race
- Full text:W020150601491648899720.pdf
