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Novel Computer-Assisted Identification Method Using Radiograph Comparison

NCJ Number
248511
Author(s)
Sharon M. Derrick Ph.D.; Jennifer C. Love Ph.D.; Jason M. Wiersema Ph.D.; John A. Hipp Ph.D.; N. Shastry Akella Ph.D.; Jim Zeigler Ph.D.
Date Published
October 2013
Length
55 pages
Annotation
The purpose of this project was to develop a statistically robust, quantitative method for identification of unidentified decedents through software-based comparison of antemortem and postmortem skeletal radiographs.
Abstract
The purpose of this project was to develop a statistically robust, quantitative method for identification of unidentified decedents through software-based comparison of antemortem and postmortem skeletal radiographs. The project has modified existing technology (QMA software) to develop and test a quantitative method of radiographic identification for routine use and is targeted for fleshed adult decedents presenting to the medical examiners and coroner's office with a suggested or tentative name and available radiographic records. Over 54,000 radiograph comparisons were made, analyzing the shapes of targeted skeletal elements and determining a "correct match" and resulted in the Computer-Assisted Decedent Identification (CADI) method which utilizes the modified QMA software.