NCJ Number
246230
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2013 Pages: 1413-1419
Date Published
November 2013
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Sex estimation from skeletal remains can be an important part of preliminary identification.
Abstract
Sex estimation from skeletal remains can be an important part of preliminary identification. The best source of information for estimating sex is the pelvis but it is not always available for analysis. For these cases, a probabilistic sex estimation method is presented using combinations of standard and alternative measurements of the clavicle, humerus, radius, and ulna. Various equations are developed that are not population specific and that are applicable in various recovery scenarios. The equations were tested using four independent samples n > 370, including a forensic sample. Allocation accuracies vary by test sample and equation and are consistently good 87.4-97.5% except for a sample of very small males that show the extreme effects of poverty and mortality bias. For many of the cases where allocation was incorrect, the probabilistic approach indicated that no confidence should be placed in the incorrect allocation and the unknown should be classified as sex indeterminate. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.