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Simultaneous Mapping and Quantitation of Ribonucleotides in Human Mitochondrial DNA
Published on: November 14, 2017
A new method for estimating age-at-death from the first rib.
Elizabeth A DiGangi1, Jonathan D Bethard, Erin H Kimmerle
1International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program-Colombia, Bogotá, Colombia. edigangi@yahoo.com
American Journal of Physical Anthropology
|August 20, 2008
Summary
A novel method estimates adult age-at-death using first rib morphology. This forensic anthropology technique, utilizing Bayesian statistics, accurately determines age, even into the ninth decade.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Bioarchaeology
- Biological Anthropology
Background:
- Estimating adult age-at-death is crucial in forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology.
- Existing methods have limitations, necessitating development of new, more accurate techniques.
- The first rib offers potential skeletal markers for age estimation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a new method for estimating adult age-at-death using specific features of the first rib.
- To modify and improve upon the Kunos et al. method for age estimation.
Main Methods:
- Data from 470 known-age Balkan males (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia) were analyzed.
- Eleven variables from three first rib aspects (costal face, rib head, tubercle facet) were extracted.
- A cumulative probit model and multivariate analysis were employed, with a Bayesian statistical approach.
Main Results:
- The study identified low correlation between costal face shape and tubercle facet texture.
- Highest posterior density regions were calculated using these uncorrelated traits for age estimation.
- The method demonstrated accuracy in estimating age-at-death up to the ninth decade.
Conclusions:
- A promising new Bayesian statistical method for estimating adult age-at-death from the first rib has been developed.
- The method shows potential for application in forensic and bioarchaeological contexts.
- Further research is needed to validate applicability to diverse populations and females.
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