Anthropometric Measurements for Stature Estimation

These flashcards cover key concepts related to anthropometric measurements, stature estimation, and methodologies used in bioarchaeology.

Cranial Measurements

Measurements taken of the skull, used primarily for ancestry and other comparisons.

Postcranial Measurements

Measurements taken of bones other than the skull, including length, breadth, diameter, and circumference.

Stature Estimation

The process of estimating an individual's height based on measurements of skeletal elements.

Regression Equations

Mathematical formulas used to estimate height based on proportions of collected skeletal measurements.

Sexual Dimorphism

Differences in size, shape, or other characteristics between males and females of the same species.

Physiological Height of the Tibia

Measurement of tibia's height excluding the medial malleolus and eminences.

Anatomical Stature

Height estimated using the full height of vertebrae and long bones, as developed by Fully in 1956.

Soft Tissue Correction Factor

Adjustment made in height estimation to account for the impact of soft tissues like cartilage and intervertebral discs.

Standard Deviation

A measure of the amount of variation or dispersion in a set of values, used in estimating error margins for stature.

Population Specificity

The concept that measurements and equations must be tailored to specific groups or populations for accurate estimations.

Discriminant Functions

Statistical techniques used to classify individuals into groups based on their measurements.

Metric Analysis

The systematic assessment of measurements to draw conclusions about physical characteristics.

Pathologies

Diseases or medical conditions that can affect skeletal measurements and should be considered in analysis.

Fluctuating Asymmetry

Variability in symmetrical traits that can indicate genetic or environmental stressors.

Nutritional Factors

Impacts of diet and nutrient availability on growth and height development.

Historical Stature Trends

Research findings that show changes in average heights over time within populations.