Sex estimation in a Turkish population using Purkait’s triangle

A virtual approach by 3-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT)

Bibliographic Data

ID13119652
AuthorsJulieta G Garcia‐dona (0000-0003-0816-0255, University of Dundee), Julieta G García-Donas, Suna Örs (Bakırköy Psychiatric Hospital), Ercan İnci (Bakırköy Psychiatric Hospital), Elena F Kranioti (0000-0002-1627-5899, University of Crete), Oğuzhan Ekizoğlu (0000-0002-0194-595X, University Centre of Legal Medicine, corresponding author), Negahnaz Moghaddam (0000-0002-0615-0451, University Centre of Legal Medicine), Silke Grabherr (0000-0002-9914-2310, University Centre of Legal Medicine)
Year2021
Volume7
Issue2
Pages97-105
Publication date2021-04-27
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueForensic Sciences Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2471-1411 • E-ISSN: 2096-1790
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/20961790.2021.1905203
PMID35784432
OpenAlexW3157838756
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited51

Sex estimation is considered one of the first steps in the forensic identification process. Morphological and morphometrical differences between males and females have been used as means for morphoscopic and metric methods on both cranial and postcranial skeletal elements. When dry skeletal elements are not available, virtual data can be used as a substitute. The present research explores 3-dimensional (3D) scans from a Turkish population to test a sex estimation method developed by Purkait (2005). Overall, 296 individuals were used in this study (158 males and 138 females). Purkait's triangle parameters were measured on computed tomography (CT) scans obtained from both right and left femora of each patient at the Bakirkoy Dr. Sadi Konuk Training Research Hospital (Istanbul, Turkey). Intra- and inter-observer errors were assessed for all variables through technical error of measurements analysis. Bilateral asymmetry and sex differences were evaluated using parametric and non-parametric statistical approaches. Univariate and multivariate discriminant function analyses were then conducted. Observer errors demonstrated an overall agreement within and between experts, as indicated by technical error of measurement (TEM) results. No bilateral asymmetries were reported, and all parameters demonstrated a statistically significant difference between males and females. Fourteen discriminant models were generated by applying single and combined parameters, producing a total correct sex classification ranging from 78.4% to 92.6%. In addition, over 67% of the total sample was accurately classified, with 95% or greater posterior probabilities. Our study demonstrates the feasibility of 3D sex estimation using Purkait's triangle on a Turkish population, with accuracy rates comparable to those reported in other populations. This is the first attempt to apply this method on virtual data and although further validation and standardisation are recommended for its application on dry bone, this research constitutes a significant contribution to the development of population-specific standards when only virtual data are available.Key pointsCT analysis using Purkait's triangle is a suitable tool for assessment of sex in unidentified individuals.The best overall estimation rate was achieved with the F11 model, with around 92% of accuracy.The results suggested 78.4% to 92.6% correct sex identification rates.More research is needed to expand the sample set and verify the results

Biology · Computed tomography · Estimation · Population · Radiology · Tomography · Turkish · Turkish population · Autopsy Techniques and Outcomes · Computer Science · Dental Radiography and Imaging · Engineering · Forensic Anthropology and Bioarchaeology Studies · Mathematics · Medicine · Philosophy

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