Identifying the disappeared: testing a novel method for sorting commingled human remains
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Date
29/11/2019Embargo end date
29/11/2020Author
Karell, Mara Asher
Metadata
Abstract
Individualisation of commingled remains is the first step towards identification
of skeletal remains, and thus to returning a loved one to their family or community
after tragedy and to providing closure. Currently, there are limited methods of
individualisation of commingled remains, which hinders the identification process.
This dissertation explored the effectiveness of a novel individualisation technique,
called mesh-to-mesh value comparison (MVC), on pair-matching four different sets of
bones: humeri, clavicles, temporal bones and calcanei. This was done using two
different MVC methods: one manual which uses the program Flexscan3D, and the
other automatic which uses the program Viewbox. Both use three-dimensional models
of bones to more accurately digitally match pairs using Iterative Closest Point
algorithms. The resulting data from both programs were assessed using sensitivity,
specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values rates, calculated
in two different manners: by Lowest Common Value selection and by Receiver
Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves. Results varied by bone type and MVC type
but generally both MVC methods were highly accurate at pair-matching, though the
manual always outperformed the automatic. The single exception for both the manual
and automatic MVC methods was the clavicle set, which produced significantly lower
results.