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Facial soft tissue thicknesses in craniofacial identification: Data collection protocols and associated measurement
C N Stephan1, B Meikle1, N Freudenstein2
1The Laboratory for Human Craniofacial and Skeletal Identification (HuCS-ID Lab), School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072, Australia.
Forensic Science International
|October 15, 2019
Summary
Facial soft tissue thickness (FSTT) measurement errors are often overlooked but can be substantial, potentially larger than biological differences. Standardizing error measurement and validation is crucial for reliable craniofacial identification.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Anthropology
- Biometrics
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Facial soft tissue thicknesses (FSTT) are vital for craniofacial identification.
- Measurement errors in FSTT studies can significantly impact data reliability.
- Existing FSTT research often lacks sufficient attention to measurement error quantification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state of measurement error reporting in FSTT studies.
- To highlight the impact of measurement errors on biological interpretations.
- To propose a standardized approach for error assessment and validation in FSTT research.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 95 FSTT studies to assess reporting of measurement errors.
- Analysis of error magnitudes where reported, including technical error of measurement (TEM).
- Development and proposal of a three-part standard for FSTT error assessment and validation.
Main Results:
- Less than half (44%) of reviewed studies commented on measurement error, with fewer providing quantification.
- Where quantified, mean error magnitudes (rTEM) ranged from 3% to 45%, typically 10-20%.
- Measurement errors are often comparable to or larger than the biological effects studied.
Conclusions:
- Attributing small FSTT differences to biological variables requires caution due to potential error.
- A proposed standard includes calculating TEM, assessing full data collection error, and validation testing.
- A freely available R tool, TDValidator, is provided to facilitate validation testing.
