Palatal Rugae Coding: Evaluating its Usefulness in Differentiating Sex and Establishing Identity
Journal Title: International Journal of Anatomy and Applied Physiology (IJAAP) - Year 2017, Vol 3, Issue 3
Abstract
Background: Under certain circumstances, the most common techniques used for establishing identity may not be applicable; hence, fast and reliable alternative methods would scientifically be welcomed. Aim and Objectives: This study investigates the practical usability of palatal rugae in establishing sex and identity in a premortem state and evaluating its usefulness for post-mortem identification. Materials and Methods: A total of 359 subjects, 165 males and 194 females between ages 20-60 years were selected from among volunteer subjects in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Maxillary dental cast were formed by alginate impressions, the palatal rugae were traced using a high precision graphite HB pencil and then analyzed for their various patterns (using Thomas and Kotze, and Kapali’s classifications). The observed rugae were assigned the following codes; from anterior to posterior -Wavy (W), Curved (Cr), Straight (S), Circular (Ci), Converge (Cv), Diverging (Dv) for both sides of the palate. Results: Statistical analysis using the Z-test for proportionality difference (males vs females) showed no significant difference in the distribution of the rugae shapes (P=0.877), Chi-square analysis of association showed insignificant distributive relationship with respect to sides (P>0.05); while sex and the distribution of all rugae types (by length) was significant (P<0.05). From the coding, the most common configuration was “WWWW” without duplicity of the pattern in any two individual; while in combination with other patterns, the straight was most frequent. Conclusion: This research emphasizes the importance of the rugae configuration; as it is very difficult for sex differentiation but reliable for establishing the identity of an individual in both post and premortem state.
Authors and Affiliations
Aigbogun (Jr. ) E. O
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP322196
- DOI 10.19070/2572-7451-1700012
- Views 94
- Downloads 0
Anatomical Variations of Aortic Arch Branching Pattern Among the Chinese
Either from congenital or ischemic problems, difficulties in aortic bypass surgery are usually caused by the unrecognized variation of aortic arch anatomy. Objective: To investigate the frequency and anatomical basis of...
Obligate Bipedal Locomotion in the Modern Human: A Review of Musculoskeletal Modifications
Several attributes are only found in primates, some of these are even more unique and noticeable in humans. These may not be limited to; energy-saving bipedal posture and locomotion, stable supine posture, complex manual...
Hemorrhagic Centrolobar Necrosis and Cytoplasmic Vacuolation of the Hepatocytes in Syzygium Guineense Chronic Treated Mice
A World Health Organization survey indicated that about 70-80% of the world population rely on non-conventional medicine mainly of plant sources in their primary healthcare. In Ethiopia over 85% of the population relies...
Craniometric Indices of Nigeria Skulls
Introduction: Craniometric indices show the percentage relationship between different dimensions. It is an important parameter for classification of race and sex of individuals of unknown identity. This study was underta...
Gallbladder Diseases in India
Gallbladder Diseases in India