Biological sex estimation in experimentally burnt patellae: exploring sexual dimorphism through comparative analysis

The patella has been used in various studies to verify its value in the estimation of biological sex. However, there is limited understanding regarding the alterations the bone undergoes when exposed to the effects of fire and how it affects sexual dimorphism. The current study aims to study the efficacy of three patella measurements, and generate an equation and cut-off points, to estimate the sex of individuals that had their patellae subjected to burning. Furthermore, the applicability of cut-off points from two previous studies was tested. Patellae (n = 32 individuals) from the sub-collection of experimentally burned skeletons at the 21st Century Identified Skeletal Collection were measured with a digital calliper for their maximum height, maximum thickness, and maximum width. The sample comprises 18 females (56.2%) and 14 males (43.8%) with ages at death between 60 and 93 years (x̄ = 78.6 years). The measurements were evaluated through linear discriminant analysis for sex estimation allowing correct classifications between 68.8 and 75%. The sexual dimorphism in both burnt and unburnt patellae was studied and results were significant for maximum height and maximum width. It was concluded that sex estimation is possible in patellae that have been subjected to different degrees of burning and sexual dimorphism is maintained albeit at lower levels compared to the non-burnt patellae. This study brought light into use of experimentally burnt patellae with its possible implications for forensic investigations although further studies with larger sample sizes are needed.