Can human sex be estimated based on the dimensions of the maxillary sinuses? A systematic review of the literature on cone-beam and multi-slice computed tomography.

PURPOSE: To critically appraise and summarize the potential of linear and/or volumetric dimensions of the maxillary sinuses obtained with cone-beam and multi-slice computed tomography. METHODS: A bibliographic search was conducted in seven databases in August 2023. Cross-sectional retrospective studies using linear and volumetric measurements of the maxillary sinuses obtained with cone-beam and multi-slice computed tomography for sex estimation and presenting numerical estimation data were included. Narrative or systematic reviews, letters to the editor, case reports, laboratory studies in animals, and experimental studies were excluded. The critical appraisal and certainty of evidence were assessed using the guidelines described by Fowkes and Fulton and GRADE, respectively. RESULTS: A total of 656 studies were found, 32 of which were included. A total of 3631 individuals were analyzed and the overall sex estimation rate ranged from 54.9 % to 95 %. When compared with isolated measurements, combined linear measurements of the right and left maxillary sinuses, such as width, length, and height, provided a higher rate of sex estimation (54.9-95 %). In most of the studies (62.5 %), all measurements were higher in men than in women. Multiple methodological problems were found in the studies, especially distorting influences in 84.4 % of the answers. The certainty of evidence varied from very low to low. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of height, width, and length measurements of the right and left maxillary sinuses from cone-beam and multi-slice computed tomography can be useful in the estimation of sex of humans. Further primary studies are needed to increase the certainty of evidence. PROSPERO REGISTER: CRD42020161922.

Exploratory analysis of new craniometric measures for the investigation of biological sex using open-access statistical and machine-learning tools on a cone-beam computed tomography sample.

Investigation of the biological sex of human remains is a crucial aspect of physical anthropology. However, due to varying states of skeletal preservation, multiple approaches and structures of interest need to be explored. This research aims to investigate the potential use of distances between bifrontal breadth (FMB), infraorbital foramina distance (IOD), nasal breadth (NLB), inter-canine width (ICD), and distance between mental foramina (MFD) for combined sex prediction through traditional statistical methods and through open-access machine-learning tools. Ethical approval was obtained from the ethics committee, and out of 100 cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, 54 individuals were selected with all the points visible. Ten extra exams were chosen to test the predictors developed from the learning sample. Descriptive analysis of measurements, standard deviation, and standard error were obtained. T-student and Mann-Whitney tests were utilized to assess the sex differences within the variables. A logistic regression equation was developed and tested for the investigation of the biological sex as well as decision trees, random forest, and artificial neural networks machine-learning models. The results indicate a strong correlation between the measurements and the sex of individuals. When combined, the measurements were able to predict sex using a regression formula or machine learning based models which can be exported and added to software or webpages. Considering the methods, the estimations showed an accuracy rate superior to 80% for males and 82% for females. All skulls in the test sample were accurately predicted by both statistical and machine-learning models. This exploratory study successfully established a correlation between facial measurements and the sex of individuals, validating the prediction potential of machine learning, augmenting the investigative tools available to experts with a high differentiation potential.

Measuring mantled howler monkey (Alouatta palliata) testes via parallel laser photogrammetry: Expanding the use of noninvasive methods.

Parallel laser photogrammetry (PLP), which consists of attaching two or three parallel laser beams at a known inter-beam distance to a camera, can be used to collect morphological measurements of organisms noninvasively. The lasers project onto the photo being taken, and because the inter-beam distance is known, they act as a scale for image analysis programs like ImageJ. Traditionally, this method has been used to measure larger morphological traits (e.g., limb length, crown-rump length) to serve as proxies for overall body size, whereas applications to smaller anatomical features remain limited. To that end, we used PLP to measure the testes of 18 free-living mantled howler monkeys (Alouatta palliata) at La Selva Biological Station, Costa Rica. We tested whether this method could reliably measure this relatively small and globular morphology, and whether it could detect differences among individuals. We tested reliability in three ways: within-photo (coefficient of variation [CV] = 4.7%), between-photo (CV = 5.5%), and interobserver (intraclass correlation = 0.92). We found an average volume of 36.2 cm3 and a range of 16.4-54.4 cm3, indicating variation in testes size between individuals. Furthermore, these sizes are consistent with a previous study that collected measurements by hand, suggesting that PLP is a useful method for making noninvasive measurements of testes.

Ascending Aortic Surgery for Small Aneurysms in Men and Women

ABSTRACT Introduction: According to recent data, thoracic aortic surgery has reduced morbidity and mortality including ascending aortic aneurysm treatment; however, women are at increased postoperative risk of adverse outcomes. Objective: Our aim was to evaluate early and late outcomes in male and female patients who underwent pre-emptive ascending aortic replacement (AAR). Methods: From January 2013 to September 2021, 91 patients (56 [61.5%] men and 35 [38.5%] women) underwent AAR for small (ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 cm) non-syndromic aneurysms. A propensity score-based adjustment of the groups was performed. We compared clinical outcomes between males and females. Results: Preoperative normalized aortic diameters were significantly larger in females (2.9 [2.7; 3.2] cm/m2) than in males (2.5 [2.3; 2.6] cm/m2, P<0.001), without differences in absolute values (51 [49; 53] mm vs. 52 [50; 53] mm, P=0.356). There were no significant differences in neurological, cardiac, pulmonary, and renal complications in both groups before and after matching. In-hospital mortality was 1 (1.8%) and 2 (5.7%) (P=0.307) in male and female patients in unmatched groups and 1 (2.9%) and 2 (5.7%) (P=0.553) in matched groups, respectively. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the only risk factor for in-hospital mortality was age (odds ratio 1.117, 95% confidence interval 1.003-1.244; P=0.04). The overall survival rate was 83.5±0.06% in men and 94.3±0.04% in women at 36 months (P=0.404). Conclusion: Ascending aortic surgery for aneurysms ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 cm seems to have tolerable early and late outcomes in men and women.

Sex differences in the impact of musculoskeletal disorders on health-related quality of life: a population-based study, Campinas, SP - ISACamp 2014/15 / Diferenças entre os sexos no impacto das doenças musculoesqueléticas na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde: estudo de base populacional, Campinas, SP - ISACamp 2014/15

Abstract This article aims to estimate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MD) on the adult population of Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, verifying associated demographic and socioeconomic factors, and to analyze their impact on Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) according to sex. A population-based study was conducted with 2,166 individuals using data from the ISACamp 2014/15. The Medical Outcomes Study SF-36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to measure HRQoL according to MD. Prevalence ratios (PR) were estimated by Poisson regression. Musculoskeletal disorders had a prevalence of 8.5% (6.7% tendonitis and 2.7% work-related musculoskeletal disorders - WMSD). Results showed a higher prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders in women, active or on leave due to illness, and in individuals with higher education levels. Moreover, reduced HRQoL scores were observed in 6 of the 8 domains, due to MD. The mental component and physical component showed greater impairment respectively among women and men after self-reported WMSD. These findings point to substantial damage from musculoskeletal disorders on the population's HRQoL. WMSD affect the HRQoL of men and women distinctly.

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é estimar a prevalência de doenças musculoesqueléticas (DM) na população adulta de Campinas/SP, Brasil, verificar fatores demográficos e socioeconômicos associados e analisar o seu impacto na qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde (QVRS) segundo sexo. Este é um estudo de base populacional utilizando dados do ISACamp 2014/15, com 2.166 indivíduos. Para a medida de QVRS, foram calculados os escores médios do Short Form Health Survey 36 (SF-36) segundo as DM e utilizada a regressão de Poisson para estimar as razões de prevalência (RP). A prevalência de DM foi de 8,5% (6,7% de tendinite e 2,7% de doenças osteomusculares relacionadas ao trabalho - DORT). Os resultados deste estudo mostraram maior prevalência de DM em mulheres, na população adulta ativa ou afastada por doença e em indivíduos com maior escolaridade. Além disso, observou-se redução nos escores de QVRS, devido às DM, em quase todos os domínios do instrumento. O maior comprometimento foi observado no componente mental entre as mulheres, e no componente físico, entre os homens, após autorrelato de DORT. Os achados mostram o impacto substancial das DM na QVRS da população. As DORT afetam distintamente a QVRS de homens e mulheres.

Mandibular assessment of panoramic radiographs for sex identification / Análise do dimorfismo sexual através de índices radiomorfométricos em radiografias panorâmicas

ABSTRACT Sex determination plays a crucial role in the post-mortem identification of human remains. One effective approach for obtaining sex-related data is to use measurements of anatomical structures such as the mandible. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of mandibular radiomorphometric indices from panoramic radiographs (PRs) for the identification of sexual dimorphism. The study sample included 300 PRs of individuals aged 51 to 80 years from the northeastern region of Brazil. Four linear measures and three numerical indices were analyzed with Inkscape® version 1.0.1 for Windows by two blinded evaluators. After statistical analysis, the results showed that the linear measurements obtained from PRs are a reliable method for sex identification. However, the calculated indices of these measurements exhibited lower efficacy for the same purpose. Therefore, PRs proved to be a valuable method for sexual identification through mandibular assessment.

RESUMO A determinação do sexo é um dado importante para a identificação post-mortem de um indivíduo ou de restos mortais humanos. Uma maneira de adquirir dados quanto ao sexo é utilizar mensurações de estruturas como a mandíbula. O objetivo principal deste estudo é avaliar a utilização de índices radiomorfométricos de mandíbulas para a identificação de dimorfismo sexual, através de radiografias panorâmicas. O estudo foi realizado em exames radiográficos panorâmicos de 300 indivíduos entre 51 e 80 anos, residentes do Nordeste brasileiro. Foram analisadas quatro medidas lineares e três índices numéricos no software Inkscape® versão 1.0.1 para Windows, por dois avaliadores cegos. Após análise estatística, os resultados demostraram que as medidas lineares obtidas se configuram como um método seguro para a identificação sexual. Entretanto, os índices obtidos através destas medidas demostraram menor eficiência para o mesmo fim. Logo, as radiografias panorâmicas podem ser utilizadas como método eficaz para a obtenção da caracterização sexual através da mandíbula.

Health and lifestyle parameters in peripheral artery disease at two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic: comparison between men and women

ABSTRACT Objective: This study analyzed the impact of sex on self-reported health and lifestyle parameters in peripheral artery disease patients at two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: In this longitudinal study, 99 patients with peripheral artery disease (53 men and 46 women) were evaluated during two periods of the COVID-19 pandemic ( i.e ., at onset: May to August 2020, and on follow-up: May to August 2021). Patients were interviewed via telephone, and information regarding lifestyle and health parameters was obtained. Results: At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, health and habit parameters were similar between women and men, with 63.0% and 45.3% indicating frequent fatigue, 73.9% and 84.9% reporting increased sitting time, and 23.9% and 39.6% practicing physical activity, respectively. At follow-up, difficulties in physical mobility (women: from 26.1% to 73.9%, p<0.001; men: from 39.6% to 71.7%, p=0.001) and the frequency of hospitalization for reasons other than COVID-19 increased similarly in women and men (women: from 4.3% to 21.7%, p=0.013; men: from 9.4% to 24.5%, p=0.038). The other parameters were similar between the periods. Conclusion: Self-reported physical mobility difficulties and hospitalization frequency increased in women and men with peripheral artery disease.

Ascending Aortic Surgery for Small Aneurysms in Men and Women.

INTRODUCTION: According to recent data, thoracic aortic surgery has reduced morbidity and mortality including ascending aortic aneurysm treatment; however, women are at increased postoperative risk of adverse outcomes. OBJECTIVE: Our aim was to evaluate early and late outcomes in male and female patients who underwent pre-emptive ascending aortic replacement (AAR). METHODS: From January 2013 to September 2021, 91 patients (56 [61.5%] men and 35 [38.5%] women) underwent AAR for small (ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 cm) non-syndromic aneurysms. A propensity score-based adjustment of the groups was performed. We compared clinical outcomes between males and females. RESULTS: Preoperative normalized aortic diameters were significantly larger in females (2.9 [2.7; 3.2] cm/m2) than in males (2.5 [2.3; 2.6] cm/m2, P<0.001), without differences in absolute values (51 [49; 53] mm vs. 52 [50; 53] mm, P=0.356). There were no significant differences in neurological, cardiac, pulmonary, and renal complications in both groups before and after matching. In-hospital mortality was 1 (1.8%) and 2 (5.7%) (P=0.307) in male and female patients in unmatched groups and 1 (2.9%) and 2 (5.7%) (P=0.553) in matched groups, respectively. Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the only risk factor for in-hospital mortality was age (odds ratio 1.117, 95% confidence interval 1.003-1.244; P=0.04). The overall survival rate was 83.5±0.06% in men and 94.3±0.04% in women at 36 months (P=0.404). CONCLUSION: Ascending aortic surgery for aneurysms ranged from 5.0 to 5.5 cm seems to have tolerable early and late outcomes in men and women.

Diferenças entre os Sexos nos Desfechos de Pacientes com Infarto do Miocárdio com Supradesnivelamento do Segmento ST Submetidos à Intervenção Coronária Percutânea Primária / Sex Differences in Outcomes of ST Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients Submitted to Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention

Resumo Fundamento Vários estudos têm mostrado que as mulheres não recebem tratamento adequado e apresentam piores desfechos após infarto agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (IAMCSST). Por isso, é necessário investigar questões relacionadas ao gênero para melhor lidar com esse problema no Brasil. Objetivo Determinar se existe associação entre o sexo feminino e eventos adversos em uma coorte contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à intervenção coronária percutânea primária (ICPp). Métodos Este foi um estudo prospectivo do tipo coorte de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp em um hospital universitário terciário entre março de 2011 e dezembro de 2021. Os pacientes foram categorizados em grupos de acordo com o sexo ao nascimento. O primeiro desfecho clínico foi ECAM em longo prazo. Os pacientes foram acompanhados por um período máximo de cinco anos. Um nível de significância bilateral de 0,05 foi aplicado em todos os testes de hipóteses. Resultados Entre os 1457 pacientes internados por IAMCSST no período do estudo, 1362 foram incluídos e 468 (34,4%) eram do sexo feminino. As mulheres apresentaram maior prevalência de hipertensão (73% vs. 60%, p<0,001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0,003) e classe Killip 3-4 na internação (17% vs. 12%, p=0,01); o escore de risco TIMI foi maior nas mulheres [4 (2, 6) vs. 3 (2, 5), p<0.001]. A mortalidade hospitalar não foi diferente entre os grupos (12,8% vs. 10,5%; p=0,20). Os ECAMs foram numericamente maiores nas mulheres que nos homens tanto durante a internação (16,0% vs. 12,6%, p=0,085) como em longo prazo (28,7% vs. 24,4%, p=0,089), com significância limítrofe. Após a análise multivariada, o sexo feminino não foi associado a ECAMs (HR = 1,14; IC95% 0,86 - 1,51; p = 0,36). Conclusão Em uma coorte prospectiva contemporânea de pacientes com IAMCSST submetidos à ICPp, pacientes do sexo feminino apresentaram idade mais avançada e mais comorbidades no basal que os pacientes do sexo masculino, mas não houve diferenças significativas entre os sexos quanto aos desfechos adversos no hospital ou em longo prazo.

Abstract Background Several studies have shown that women are usually undertreated and have worse outcomes after ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), hence the need to investigate questions related to sex in Brazil to better deal with the problem. Objective To determine whether female sex is still associated with adverse events in a contemporary cohort of patients with STEMI undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention (pPCI). Methods This was a prospective cohort study of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI in a tertiary university hospital between March 2011 and December 2021. Patients were categorized into groups based on their sex at birth. The primary clinical outcome was long-term MACCE. Patients were followed-up for up to five years. All hypothesis tests had a two-sided significance level of 0.05. Results Among 1457 patients admitted with STEMI in the study period, 1362 were included and 468 (34.4%) were women. Female patients had a higher prevalence of hypertension (73% vs. 60%, p <0.001), diabetes (32% vs. 25%, p=0.003) and Killip class 3-4 at hospital admission (17% vs. 12%, p=0.01); TIMI risk score was higher among women (4 [2, 6] vs. 3 [2, 5], p<0.001). In-hospital mortality was not different between groups (12.8% vs. 10.5%, p=0.20). In-hospital MACCE (16.0% vs. 12.6%, p=0.085) and long-term MACCE (28.7% vs. 24.4%, p=0.089) were numerically higher in women, with borderline significance. After multivariate analysis, female sex was not associated with MACCE (HR = 1.14; 95% CI 0.86 - 1.51; p = 0.36). Conclusion In a prospective cohort of STEMI patients submitted to pPCI, female patients were older and had more comorbidities at baseline, but no significant differences were found in terms of long-term adverse outcomes.

Reliability of the Joint Position Sense Error Test for Women With Neck Pain and Asymptomatic Men and Women.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the intra-rater between-days reliability of the joint position sense error (JPSE) test in asymptomatic men and women, as well as in women with neck pain. METHODS: Fourteen asymptomatic men and 27 women (14 asymptomatic and 13 with neck pain) participated. The JPSE test was performed during right and left cervical rotation (10 trials for each side) in 2 sessions, with at least 7 days between them. The head repositioning error during the JPSE test (in degrees) was measured and used to calculate the intra-rater between-days reliability of the test, evaluated through the intraclass correlation coefficient and Bland-Altman analyses. Independent t tests were calculated to compare the head repositioning errors of asymptomatic women and men. The minimal detectable change was also calculated. RESULTS: The neck pain group showed higher intraclass correlation coefficient values (0.866 and 0.773, good reliability) compared to the asymptomatic men (0.478 and 0.403, poor reliability) and to the asymptomatic women (-0.161 and 0.504, poor and moderate reliability, respectively) for both right and left cervical rotation, respectively. Considering Bland-Altman analyses, the neck pain group showed better agreement between the measurements for right cervical rotation than the asymptomatic groups. CONCLUSION: The results indicate that the methodology used to perform the JPSE test in this study may be a reliable way to assess the proprioception of women with neck pain in clinical settings.

Association between cognitive performance and sarcopenic obesity in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.

Sarcopenic obesity (SO), the co-occurrence of sarcopenia and obesity, is associated with functional loss, frailty, and incapacity in older adults. Recently, SO was associated with reduced cognitive performance in adults. However, no SO studies have been done with older adults with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Objective: The objective of this study was to verify the occurrence of SO and associated factors in 43 older adults with AD. Methods: We applied the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR). SO was verified by using dual-emission X-ray absorptiometry. Results: We found five women with SO. Women had higher body fat and lower muscle mass compared with men. There was a significant relationship between body fat and cognitive performance only in men (r=0.65; p<0.01) adjusted by age and education. Men with obesity and aged >75 years had better cognitive performance compared with non-obese men aged <75 years (p=0.010) and women with obesity aged >75 years (p=0.033). Conclusions: Women with AD had higher body fat and lower muscle mass than men. SO occurs in older women with AD. Men with higher body fat showed better cognitive performance, independent of age and education.

A obesidade sarcopênica (SO), coocorrência de sarcopenia e obesidade, está associada à perda funcional, à fragilidade e à incapacidade em idosos. Recentemente, verificou-se que a SO está associada ao desempenho cognitivo reduzido em adultos. No entanto, não foram feitos estudos de SO em idosos com doença de Alzheimer (AD). Objetivo: Verificar a ocorrência de obesidade sarcopênica e fatores associados em 43 adultos idosos com doença de Alzheimer. Métodos: Aplicamos o miniexame do estado mental (MEEM) e a avaliação clínica da demência (CDR). A SO foi verificada utilizando a absorciometria de dupla emissão de raios X. Resultados: Foram classificadas cinco idosas com SO. As mulheres idosas tinham maior gordura corporal e menor massa muscular em comparação com os homens. Houve relação significativa, ajustada por idade e educação, entre gordura corporal e desempenho cognitivo apenas nos homens (r=0,65; p<0,01). Os homens com obesidade e com mais de 75 anos tiveram melhor desempenho cognitivo em comparação com os homens não obesos <75 anos (p=0,010) e com as mulheres com obesidade >75 anos (p=0,033). Conclusões: As mulheres com AD tinham maior gordura corporal e menor massa muscular do que os homens. A SO ocorreu em mulheres mais velhas com AD. Os homens com maior gordura corporal apresentaram melhor desempenho cognitivo, independentemente da idade e da educação.

MAOA-LPR polymorphism and math anxiety: A marker of genetic susceptibility to social influences in girls?

Math anxiety (MA) seems to result from an interaction of genetic vulnerability with negative experiences learning mathematics. Although mathematics achievement does not substantially differ between the sexes, MA levels are usually higher in girls. Molecular genetic markers of MA vulnerability have been seldom explored. This article examines the contribution of the monoamine oxidase A gene (MAOA) to MA and to sex differences in MA. Five hundred and sixty-eight third to fifth graders were genotyped for the MAOA-LPR polymorphism (a repetitive element in MAOA promoter that has been associated with MAOA enzymatic activity), and assessed on general cognitive ability, mathematics achievement, and the cognitive and affective dimensions of MA. MAOA-LPR genotypes were classified as high (MAOA-H) or low (MAOA-L) according to their predicted enzymatic activity. Mixed models controlling for effects of school, sex, general cognitive ability, and mathematics achievement were evaluated. The best fitting model included school, math achievement, sex, MAOA-LPR, and the MAOA-LPR by sex interaction. This indicated that under the MAOA-H dominant model, anxiety toward mathematics interacted with the MAOA genotype: girls with an MAOA-L genotype exhibited higher levels of MA, with a small but significant effect. The association between MAOA-L genotype and MA in girls may represent an example of developmental plasticity.

Non-academic factors influencing the development of empathy in undergraduate nursing students: a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: Empathy is described as a core competence of nursing. There is abundant research evidence supporting that empathy varies according to personal characteristics and targeted training. The aim of this study was to characterize non-academic factors (personal and environmental) influencing the development of empathy in undergraduate nursing studies who are not receiving a targeted training in empathetic abilities in their nursing schools. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in the three nursing schools located in Cusco city, Peru (two private and one public). The Jefferson Scales of Empathy, Attitudes toward Physician-Nurse Collaboration, and Lifelong Learning, the Emotional Loneliness Scale for Adults, and the Scale of Life Satisfaction, were applied as the main measures. Also, information regarding gender, nursing school, and age, were collected. After psychometric properties were assessed, all measures were used in the development of a multivariate regression model to characterize factors of influence in empathy. RESULTS: In a sample composed by 700 undergraduate nursing students (72 males and 628 females), a multivariate linear regression model was created. This model explained the 53% of variance of empathy and fitted all conditions necessary for inference estimations. Teamwork abilities, loneliness, age, sex, subjective well-being, and nursing school, appeared as factors influencing the development of empathy in patients' care. CONCLUSIONS: Findings have indicated that, in absence of a targeted training, individual characteristics and characteristics associated with social and family environments play an important role of influence in the development of empathy in nursing students. These findings are also in consonance with others previously reported in different cultural settings including high-, middle- and low-income countries.

Sex dimorphism according to the nasozygomatic triangle

Sex is one of the first features to be diagnosed in human identification, composing, with age, ancestry and stature, the so called "big four". Aim: The present study aimed to metrically analyze the sexual dimorphism in skulls of known age and sex from Rio Grande do Sul ­ Brazil. Methods: This was a crosssectional study of metrical analysis, which used a sample comprised of 209 human skulls (106 male and 103 female) older than 22 years old at the time of death, undamaged and without signs of trauma or abnormalities. The point nasion and the most superior points on the zygomaticotemporal sutures from each side were connected forming a triangle. This area was calculated using Heron's formula, and the results were submitted for statistical analysis. Results: All measurements showed significant values for sexual dimorphism. Through the area of the triangle, it was possible to determine sex with an accuracy of 83.97% for males and 83.50% for females. Conclusion: This simple method requires only a caliper, and still can be reliable for forensic human identification. It must be diffused and tested on other samples, and can be used as a good and inexpensive tool for experts in day-to-day practice

Evaluation of effectiveness of cranial morphological characteristics for sex estimation in a Brazilian sample

Forensic physical anthropometry allows the determination of animal species and estimates sex, ancestry, age and height. Aim: To analyze the effectiveness of a cranioscopic/ morphological evaluation for sex estimation with a sample of the Brazilian mixed-race population by conducting a qualitative visual assessment without prior knowledge of sex. Methods: This is a blind cross-sectional study that evaluated 30 cranial characteristics of 192 skulls with mandible, 108 male and 84 female individuals, aged 22 to 97 years, from the Osteological and Tomographic Biobank. The qualitative characteristics were classified and compared to the actual sex information of the Biobank database. The statistical analysis was used to calculate de Cohen's kappa coefficient, total percentage of agreement, sensitivity and specificity of visual sex classification. Results: Of the 30 cranial variables analyzed, 15 presented moderate degree of agreement, achieving value of Kappa test between 0.41­0.60: Glabella (Gl), Angle and lines (At), Mental eminence (Em), Mandible size (Tm), Cranial base (Bc), Mouth depth (Pb), Nasal aperture (Anl), Supraorbital region (Rs), Orbits (Orb), Mastoid processes (Pm), Alveolar arches (Aa), Zygomatic arch (Az), Orbital edge (Bo), Supraorbital protuberances (Pts), and Supramastoid crests and rugosity (Crsm). The Facial physiognomy (Ff) presented substantial reliability (0.61-0.80) with 89.8% sensitivity for male sex and 70.2% specificity. Conclusions: Cranial morphological characteristics present sexual dimorphism; however, in this study only 15 variables showed moderate degree of agreement and can be used in sex estimation. Only one variable (Ff) 81.2% total agreement with substantial reliability. Quantitative methods can be associated for safe sex estimation

Dimorfismo sexual, ¿natural? Una reinterpretación crítica de las diferencias biológicas / Sexual dimorphism: innate or acquired? A reinterpretation of biological differences / Dimorfismo sexual: natural? Uma reinterpretação crítica das diferenças biológicas

Resumen El presente trabajo expone una interpretación sexual dimórfica de las diferencias biológicas en la especie humana, que resulta de la lectura androcéntrica de los cuerpos que caracterizó la ciencia moderna. En contraste con esta lectura, se muestra cómo las prácticas sociales asociadas con los roles de género pueden traducirse en diferencias biológicas que "se ajustan" a una lectura dimórfica. Sobre la base de estos hechos, se propone que, si existen ciertos correlatos entre genitalidad y diferencias biológicas, los mismos no necesariamente son causados por los procesos de diferenciación sexual, sino por vínculos estadísticos dados por los estereotipos normativos de género. Las conductas implicadas en tales estereotipos se expresan biológicamente, y los roles de género crean muchas de las diferencias biológicas que hoy se asumen como naturalmente dimórficas.

Abstract This text argues that the dimorphic interpretation of biological differences in the human species results from an androcentric reading of bodies that have characterized modern science. In contrast to this perspective, the article shows how social practices associated with gender roles can produce biological differences that "adjust" themselves to a dimorphic reading. Based on these facts, we propose that if correlations between genitality and biological differences exists, they are not caused by the processes of sexual differentiation, but by statistical links given by normative gender stereotypes. The behaviors implied in such stereotypes are expressed biologically, and gender roles create many of the biological differences currently assumed as innate and sexually dimorphic.

Resumo O presente trabalho expõe a interpretação sexual dimórfica das diferenças biológicas na espécie humana resultante da leitura androcêntrica dos corpos que caracterizou a ciência moderna. Em contraste com esta leitura, mostra-se como práticas sociais associadas aos papéis de gênero podem se traduzir em diferenças biológicas que se encaixam na leitura dimórfica. Com base nisso, propõe-se que, se existem certos correlatos entre genitalidade e diferenças biológicas, estes não são causados necessariamente por processos de diferenciação sexual, mas por vínculos estatísticos dados por estereótipos normativos de gênero. Os comportamentos envolvidos em tais estereótipos são biologicamente expressos, e os papéis de gênero criam muitas das diferenças biológicas hoje assumidas como naturalmente dimórficas.

Volumetric and linear evaluation of the sphenoidal sinus of a Brazilian population, in cone beam computed tomography.

The determination of sex from skeletal remains has been widely used in biological profile reconstruction since these are some of the last structures to perish after death. The sphenoid sinus is located deeply in the skull and is enveloped by diverse structures within the sphenoid body. It is, therefore, less predisposed to injuries and/or pathological changes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the possibility of determining sex in a Brazilian population by means of linear and volumetric measurements of the sphenoid sinus, in addition to identifying and quantifying the presence of extensions of this sinus in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans. In total 268 CBCT scans were analysed, from patients aged between 22 and 70 years old, of which 145 were female, and 123 were male. The images, representative of a Brazilian population, were selected by a dental radiologist from a CBCT image bank. The volumetric measurements were made by means of the segmentation software ITK-SNAP 3.0® and the linear inferio-superior, latero-lateral and anteroposterior measurements, as well as the presence of extensions of the sphenoidal sinus, were made using the CS Imaging Software®. The results of this study suggested that when comparing men and women, there were no statistical differences in the linear measurements and extensions of the sphenoidal sinus, although the values were considerable in the extensions for the pterygoid processes and greater wings of the sphenoid bone, particularly in women. However, there was a statistically significant difference when the sphenoidal sinus volume was compared, as it was larger for men (11.364 mm³ ± 4.229 mm³) than for women (10.000 mm³ ± 3.615 mm³). In summary, the sphenoidal sinus volumetric measurements in CBCT exams are useful for determining the sex of unknown individuals.

Overweight during lactation and its implications for biometric, nutritional and cardiovascular parameters of young and adult male and female rats.

Litter size reduction can induce early overnourishment, being an attractive experimental model to study short- and long-term consequences of childhood obesity. Epidemiological data indicate sex differences regarding cardiometabolic disorders and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. The present study aimed to describe biometric, nutritional and cardiovascular changes related to neonatal overweight promoted by litter size reduction in young and adult Wistar rats of both sexes. Litter adjustment to eight or four pups/mother (1:1 male-to-female ratio) gave, respectively, control and overweight groups. Body mass, food intake, haemodynamic and echocardiographic parameters and cardiorespiratory capacity were evaluated at postnatal days 30 and 150. Diminished litters were correlated with higher body mass and weight gain (12 %) during lactation, validating the experimental model of neonatal overweight. Soon after weaning male (16 %) and female (25 %) offspring of these litters presented a lower food intake than their respective control, without differences in body mass. Adult males from reduced litters presented higher abdominal circumference (7 %), systolic blood pressure (10 %), interventricular septum thickness (15 %) and relative wall thickness (15 %) compared with their respective control. Rats' performance on the maximal effort ergometer test was not affected by neonatal overweight. Data suggest the occurrence of catch-down growth and hypophagia in male and female rats submitted to neonatal overweight. However, only male rats presented haemodynamic and cardiac structural changes. These findings are crucial to personalised/gender medicine.

Sexual dimorphism of mental foramen position in peruvian subjects: A cone-beam-computed tomography study.

Background: The position of the mental foramen (MF) is particularly relevant in dentistry. The incorporation of new imaging techniques, such as cone-beam-computed tomography (CBCT), can be used to identify anatomic dimorphic traits. Aims: This study evaluated the sexual dimorphism of MF position by CBCT among a selected population. Methods: Fifty CBCT images from 20 to 40-year-old subjects (25 men and 25 women) were evaluated. The horizontal position was evaluated using the al Jasser-Nwoku classification to identify the position of the MF in the mandible. Two measurements were obtained on coronal sections to evaluate the vertical position of the MF: the distance from the uppermost alveolar ridge to the upper edge of the foramen and the distance from the inferior edge of the foramen to the lower border of the mandible. Statistical Analysis Used: Comparisons between sexes and sides were performed with Student's t-test and Chi-square tests. Results: The most frequent location of the MF was in line and below of the second premolar tooth in both men and women (P > 0.05). Additionally, significant differences were found between sexes for the distance from the inferior edge of the foramen to the lower border of the mandible in each side (P < 0.001 for the right and left sides). Conclusions: Horizontal position of the MF is not a sexually dimorphic feature and it is predominantly in line and below the second premolar tooth. Women present the MF in a more caudal position, closer to the mandibular base when compared to men.

Can Mental Index be used on CBCT images to determine sexual dimorphism? / O Índice Mentual aplicado em imagens de TCFC pode ser utilizado para determinação do Dimorfismo Sexual?

ABSTRACT Objective: Radiomorphometric indices (RI) vary according to gender and age. The objective of this study was to assess bone quality in men and women, using tomographic images Methods: A total of 78 Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images of female and male patients were analyzed. The images were obtained from LAPI-FOUSP database, São Paulo, Brazil, and the Mental Index, which is a quantitative index, was evaluated on those images. The images were divided into 2 groups: Group M - Men and Group W - Women and evaluated by one examiner in two different times (T1 and T2). The data was submitted to a statistical analysis with a 95% level of significance (p <0.05) Results: The ICC tests showed an average to good intra-examiner agreement. The age averages were: 48.46 ± 15.3 for group W and 53.87 ± 13.09 for group M. On the MI evaluation, statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups Conclusion: We concluded that MI can be used to determine sexual dimorphism, once the thickness of the mandible cortex in women is smaller than the thickness found in men.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o dimorfismo sexual, por meio da aplicação de IR em imagens tomográficas. Métodos: Foram analisados 78 exames de tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico (TCFC), de pacientes do sexo feminino e masculino. As imagens foram obtidas do banco de dados do LAPI-FOUSP, São Paulo, Brasil, e por meio delas o Índice Mentual, que é um IR quantitativo, foi avaliado. As imagens foram divididas em 2 grupos: Grupo M - Homens e Grupo W - Mulheres e avaliadas por um examinador em dois tempos diferentes (T1 e T2). Os dados foram submetidos a análise estatística com nível de significância de 95% (p<0,05). Resultados: O teste ICC mostrou uma concordância intra-examinador média a boa. As médias de idade foram: 48,46±15,3 para o grupo M e 53,87±13,09 para o grupo H. Na avaliação do IM, foram observadas diferenças estatisticamente significantes entre os dois grupos. Conclusão: Concluímos que o Índice Mentual pode ser utilizado para determinar o dimorfismo sexual, uma vez que a espessura da cortical da mandíbula nas mulheres é menor que a espessura encontrada nos homens.