Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA)
Definition
A multivariate statistical method that builds a weighted linear equation from measurements to classify specimens into groups (here, male or female). A DFA trained on a known-sex reference sample gives maximum discriminating power and can be applied to an unknown; accuracy depends on how well the reference population matches the target.
Related terms
- Amelogenin
- A gene on both the X and Y chromosomes used for sex determination in forensic STR kits. The X-allele amplicon is approximately...
- Barr Body
- A condensed, transcriptionally inactive X chromosome visible in the interphase nuclei of XX individuals. In dental cells it appears as a small...
- Mandibular Canine Index (MCI)
- The ratio of mandibular canine mesiodistal crown width to intercanine distance, multiplied by 100. Values above a population-specific threshold lean male. Described...
- Odontometrics
- The quantitative measurement of teeth, covering crown diameters, root lengths, and cusp dimensions. In forensic practice these measurements feed discriminant function analyses...
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Systematic physical differences between biological males and females of a species. In teeth it is expressed mainly as size: males average larger...
Explained in
- Sex Estimation from Teeth and Dental DimensionsA multivariate statistical method that builds a weighted linear equation from measurements to classify specimens into groups (here, male or female). A DFA trai...