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Transition analysis 3: Skeletal age estimation program.

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Title: Transition analysis 3: Skeletal age estimation program.
Authors: Boldsen, Jesper L.1 (AUTHOR), Heissel, Thomas Wulff1,2 (AUTHOR), Getz, Sara M.3 (AUTHOR), Weise, Svenja1 (AUTHOR), Boock, Magnus Victor2 (AUTHOR), Cruz-Filipe, Luís4 (AUTHOR), Ousley, Stephen D.1,5 (AUTHOR), Milner, George R.1,6 (AUTHOR) ost@psu.edu
Source: Forensic Science International. Sep2026, Vol. 386, pN.PAG-N.PAG. 1p.
Subjects: Human skeleton, Maximum likelihood statistics, Forensic anthropology, Skeletal maturity, Archaeological dating, Musculoskeletal system physiology
Abstract: Estimating the age of adult human skeletons through a combination of multiple age-of-transition curves is facilitated through the development of a computer program, TA3-V1.0. Curves were generated for 47 skeletal structures and 69 transitions from one stage to the next. Data were derived from 1638 modern known-age skeletons from four continents, a diverse sample designed to accommodate human variation in genetic origin, cultural affiliation, and activity patterns. The TA3-V1.0 program generates point estimates of age (maximum likelihood estimates) and confidence intervals (80, 90, and 95%). Researchers often encounter incomplete remains, so individualized estimates are tailored to the anatomical structures that are present as well as their appearance. Several built-in prior distributions accommodate specific forensic and archaeological needs. The TA3-V1.0 program permits the estimation of age throughout adulthood. With an old-age adjustment, the correlation between true (reported) and estimated ages using skeletons from this sample is 0.92; without the correction, it is 0.91. • Age throughout adulthood is estimated from human skeletal remains. • Maximum likelihood point estimates and age intervals are produced. • Age estimates are tailored to the combination of skeletal structures and stages present. • Built-in prior distributions meet specific investigator needs. • Point estimates and age intervals correspond closely to true ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Estimating the age of adult human skeletons through a combination of multiple age-of-transition curves is facilitated through the development of a computer program, TA3-V1.0. Curves were generated for 47 skeletal structures and 69 transitions from one stage to the next. Data were derived from 1638 modern known-age skeletons from four continents, a diverse sample designed to accommodate human variation in genetic origin, cultural affiliation, and activity patterns. The TA3-V1.0 program generates point estimates of age (maximum likelihood estimates) and confidence intervals (80, 90, and 95%). Researchers often encounter incomplete remains, so individualized estimates are tailored to the anatomical structures that are present as well as their appearance. Several built-in prior distributions accommodate specific forensic and archaeological needs. The TA3-V1.0 program permits the estimation of age throughout adulthood. With an old-age adjustment, the correlation between true (reported) and estimated ages using skeletons from this sample is 0.92; without the correction, it is 0.91. • Age throughout adulthood is estimated from human skeletal remains. • Maximum likelihood point estimates and age intervals are produced. • Age estimates are tailored to the combination of skeletal structures and stages present. • Built-in prior distributions meet specific investigator needs. • Point estimates and age intervals correspond closely to true ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:03790738
DOI:10.1016/j.forsciint.2026.112909