Sex estimation by maxillary sinus using computed tomography: a systematic review.

Sex estimation is an important part of forensic human identification, and when primary methods cannot be applied, forensic anthropology becomes an important auxiliary method of identification. The maxillary sinus may remain intact even if the skull is severely damaged and could thus be used in forensic investigations. The objective of this study was to verify the effectiveness of the evaluation of the maxillary sinus as a technique for sex estimation. Articles published in the past 10 years were searched using PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases, including those that used computed tomography to perform maxillary sinus measurements with the purpose of sex estimation. Studies that used radiographs to perform the measurements were excluded because they do not allow for a three-dimensional analysis. Studies that did not provide information regarding the origin of the analyzed population were also excluded. The selected articles were evaluated for methodological quality according to the indication of the objective, studied population, inclusion and exclusion criteria, parameters for obtaining the computed tomography image, measurements evaluated, bias discussion, and ethical authorization. From the 52 articles found, 18 were included. The populations studied included Indians, Iraqis, Iranians, Egyptians, Brazilians, French, Dutch, and Turkish. Height, width, length, and volume of the maxillary sinus were measured. The maxillary sinus can act as an auxiliary tool for sex estimation in forensic investigations.

Applicability of forensic facial approximation in the recognition process of unclaimed victims.

BACKGROUND: Identifying bodies in a state of putrefaction, skeletonization or mutilation is often difficult. In these cases, it is possible to use auxiliary methods such as forensic facial approximation, considering the possibility of recognition by a relative or acquaintance, helping to obtain ante-mortem data for the identification process. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the capacity of recognition of individuals from digital facial approximation and to verify the association between the level of understanding of the issue by evaluators and the recognition success index. METHODS: 16 skulls with previous photographic records were selected and then utilized for three-dimensional approximation using the digital technique, scanned by photogrammetry, and reconstructed by computerized method using open-source software. Twenty evaluators tried to recognize the facial approximation performed from images present in the photospreads. RESULTS: The mean overall score was 23.75%, and it was observed that in only five approximations (31.24%) the option of correct recognition of the victim was the one that obtained the highest number of selections. False positives and negatives corresponded, respectively, to 11.56% and 12.5%. CONCLUSIONS: It can be concluded that the methodology can provide recognition albeit in low numbers, and permitting the acquisition of ante-mortem data for the proper process of human identification through primary methods.

Forensic odontology education:from undergraduate to PhD - a Brazilian experience.

BACKGROUND: Forensic Odontology is a topic present in the majority of Dental Schools in Brazil, and due to this reality, some universities develop activities related to undergraduate and graduate students, from the Dentistry course until the Ph.D. degree. AIM: To present the education experience related to Forensic Odontology at School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto (USP - University of São Paulo), showing the strategies and activities in the different degrees (Dental course, Forensic Odontology Specialization Program, Specific Professional Training, Master, and Ph.D.). RESULTS: To the undergraduate students, many activities are developed in order to demonstrate all the possibilities that Forensic Dentistry allow, including theoretical and practical activities; in the Forensic Odontology Specialization Program, the dentists are trained to act as Forensic Odontologists in all its amplitude; in the Specific Professional Training, some courses are available, related to specific topics as DVI, Forensic Facial Reconstruction, Auditor in Dental Care Insurance and others; and in the Master and Ph.D. Programs, the professionals receive training in skills like teaching, research, student's guidance and others. CONCLUSION: In Brazil, Forensic Odontology is a well-known field in Dentistry and universities develop an important role in training a qualified workforce.