NCJ Number
199184
Journal
Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal Volume: 35 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2002 Pages: 209-221
Editor(s)
B. Yamashita
Date Published
December 2002
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This paper presents a non-conventional method in assessing the femoral head for sexual dimorphism.
Abstract
Fundamental deficiencies exist in the present anthropometric measurements utilized to make sex determination more objective. Departing from the traditional anthropometric measures, the anatomical landmarks for measurement have been identified on the femoral head, termed the non-conventional method. This method is used for metrically defining sexual dimorphism in the human femur. The measurements are taken with reference to the weight-bearing plane with the changes brought about as a result of stress and strain studied in the plane. The study was conducted at the Medicolegal Institute of Bhopal in India. Data consisted of 124 completely dry adult femora of which 80 were males and 44 were females. A model was devised of the femur in anatomical position. The femur was suspended on a horizontal bar to freely take its own position under the force of gravity. This non-conventional method exhibits a better discrimination ability compared to traditional techniques. Figures, tables and references