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                            Library & Multimedia
 Technical modifications for the application of the Total Difference Method for frontal sinus comparison
NCJ Number
              307999

Author(s)
          Jessica L. Campbell;
                        Lauren N. Butari
Date Published

August 2022
Length
              1 page
Annotation
              This paper reports on a study that tested one technical method for obtaining the frontal sinus shape, called the Total Difference Method, and describes the authors’ methodology, results, and implications for practice as well as future research.
Abstract
              Despite being used in personal identification since the 1920s, frontal sinus-based methods are rarely validated. This research study serves as a validation test of the Total Difference Method (TDM). The posterior-anterior radiographs of 10 adults were assessed by two observers using three modes: the Freehand Mode largely followed the original protocols; the Overlay Mode utilized a tracing overlay; and the Semi-Auto Mode used the overlay and macro, walking the user through multiple steps. The modes were evaluated for the time taken to complete each image and the accuracy and repeatability of the line lengths, midline assessment, and angle placement. The repeated measures analysis of variance results for the intra-observer error revealed differences in bias in the angle placement and line length mean error between the rounds and modes. The differences between the rounds were approximately consistent for each mode, suggesting observer error. Significant differences in the inaccuracy of the angle placement and the line lengths between observers by mode were evident; in post hoc testing, the Freehand Mode and Overlay Mode had the greatest error in both variables. The Semi-Auto Mode retained no significant error for angle inaccuracy and had the fewest errors for line length inaccuracy. When using the Semi-Auto Mode, the time was 46.1 percent faster than that of the Freehand Mode and 34 percent faster than that of the Overlay Mode; time slightly improved with method familiarity. The results suggest that the technique required for the TDM can reliably be repeated, and the semi-automated macro improves accuracy and efficiency, but only after the users are familiar with the method and macro procedures. All resources needed to repeat this study are freely available on GitHub. Publisher Abstract Provided
      
  
          Additional Details
Grant Number(s)
        2020-75-CX-0013


  
  
        
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        NIJ-Sponsored


  
  
        
  Publication Type
        Research (Applied/Empirical)


  
  
        
  Award
        Positive identification using frontal sinus comparisons: Developing empirically-based guidelines
    
  
  
Date Published: August 1, 2022
    
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                      https://www.icpsr.umich.edu/web/NACJD/studies/38946
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