Akademik

1. An impression of the inked bulb of the distal phalanx of a finger, showing the configuration of the surface ridges, used as a means of identification. SEE ALSO: dermatoglyphics, Galton system of classification of fingerprints. 2. Term, sometimes used informally, referring to any analytic method capable of making fine distinctions between similar compounds or gel patterns; e.g., the pattern of an infrared absorption curve or of a two-dimensional paper chromatograph. 3. In genetics, the analysis of DNA fragments to determine the identity of an individual or the paternity of a child. SYN: genetic f..

- Galton system of classification of fingerprints a system of classification based on the variations in the patterns of the ridges, which are grouped into arches, loops, and whorls (A.L.W. or arch-loop-whorl system). “Arches are formed when the ridges run from one side to the other of the bulb of the digit, without making any backward turn, but no twist; whorls, when there is a turn through at least one complete circle; they are also considered to include all duplex spirals.” The abbreviations used in making a record of fingerprints are: a, arch; l, loop; w, whorl; i, loop with an inner (thumb side) slope; o, loop with an outer (little-finger side) slope. The ten digits are registered in four groups as follows, distinguished by capital letters: A, the fore, middle, and ring fingers of the right hand; B, the fore, middle, and ring fingers of the left hand; C, the thumb and little finger of the right hand; D, the thumb and little finger of the left hand. SEE ALSO: dermatoglyphics.

- genetic f. SYN: f. (3).

fin·ger·print -.print n

1) the impression of a fingertip on any surface esp an ink impression of the lines on the fingertip taken for purpose of identification

2) analytical evidence (as a spectrogram) that characterizes an object or substance esp the chromatogram or electrophoretogram obtained by cleaving a protein by enzymatic action and subjecting the resulting collection of peptides to two-dimensional chromatography or electrophoresis compare DNA FINGERPRINTING

fingerprint vt to analyze (as spectrographically or chromatographically) in order to determine uniquely the identifying characteristics, origin, or constitution of <each protein was \fingerprinted>

fin·ger·print·ing n

the distinctive pattern of minute ridges in the outer horny layer of the skin. Every individual has a unique pattern of loops (70%), whorls (25%), or arches (5%). Fingerprint patterns can show the presence of inherited disorders. See also dermatoglyphics.