Egyptian Journal of Forensic Sciences (Nov 2018)
Determination of sex from the morphometry of orbits in adult skull of contemporary eastern Indian population
Abstract
Abstract Background Determination of sex from the structure of orbits in the human skull is well documented. Both morphology and morphometry of the orbits have application in the determination of sex in skeletal remains. These parameters are often population-specific and warrant research on a regional basis. The present study was conducted to examine the sexual dimorphism of orbits in eastern Indian population. It was designed with the objective to determine the sex of the skull from the linear dimensions of orbits by deriving a specific multivariate function for classification. Materials and methods The investigation was conducted on a series of 92 human skulls (61 males and 31 females). The orbital height (OH) and breadth (OB) were measured by using digital vernier calliper. Data analysis was performed by computing descriptive statistics like mean, standard deviation and range. Linear discriminant function analysis was carried out to derive a classification model. Results It was noted that the orbital dimensions were more in females than in males. A multivariate function was derived from the discriminant function analysis. The estimated sectioning point or cut off score was calculated to be -0.141. If the score of the function was more than -0.141, then sex can be assigned as male. On the other hand, if it was less than -0.141, then it was female. Likewise, sex could be correctly assigned in 68.5% of the cases by this method. Conclusion This study provides useful baseline orbital morphometric data for East Indian population. When applied in sex determination, this multivariate model returns 68.5% correct classification. It will be useful and easy population-specific method of sex determination from human skulls. This morphometric data can be used in further forensic research involving identification from skeletal remains.
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