Abstract: Methods for establishing the genotype of a DNA sample, and methods for investigating the potential sources of a DNA sample arising from a plurality of source, are provided, the methods being based on a method including: analysing the sample to produce a data profile for the sample for a locus; proposing a suggested genotype; generating a first stage profile for the locus for the suggested genotype; adjusting the first stage profile to account for one or more factors to give a simulation profile; and comparing the data profile and the simulation profile to provide an indication of the likelihood of the data profile given the suggested genotype. The methods in effect make adjustments to take the first stage profile, potentially through one or more intervening profiles, to the simulation profile, the simulation profile being an anticipation of the data profile which would be expected to occur for that suggested genotype in practice.

Abstract: A multifunctional, disposable training pad useful for housebreaking pets, particularly canines, that preferably comprises a moisture-absorbing filler material captured between a permeable top sheet and an impermeable bottom sheet, the bottom sheet having two parallel, releasable adhesive strips, one strip being located proximally to each of two oppositely disposed edges of the pad to facilitate selective attachment to a floor surface or to an adjacent pad, the pad also including an animal attractant composition and optionally including a chew-deterrent composition having a non-deterring scent.

Abstract: Methods for establishing the genotype of a DNA sample, and methods for investigating the potential sources of a DNA sample arising from a plurality of source, are provided, the methods being based on a method including: analysing the sample to produce a data profile for the sample for a locus; proposing a suggested genotype; generating a first stage profile for the locus for the suggested genotype; adjusting the first stage profile to account for one or more factors to give a simulation profile; and comparing the data profile and the simulation profile to provide an indication of the likelihood of the data profile given the suggested genotype. The methods in effect make adjustments to take the first stage profile, potentially through one or more intervening profiles, to the simulation profile, the simulation profile being an anticipation of the data profile which would be expected to occur for that suggested genotype in practice.

Abstract: An article useful for attracting canines and inducing them to eliminate in a preferred outdoor area, the article desirably having a molded polymeric body and a canine attractant dispersed within the body, coated on a portion of the body or contained inside a cavity in the body, the canine attractant being adapted for release into the surrounding atmosphere over a prolonged period.