Osteometric indices of the middle phalanges of the human foot and their sexual differences

The actual problem of modern anthropology and forensic osteology is skeletal diagnostics of the sex. The definition of osteometric indices of foot bones can give valuable information to solve this problem. The aim of this study was to determine the variability of osteometric indices of middle phalanges of the foot of adults. The material for the study served 51 cases of observation (19 women and 32 men). Direct osteometric measurements were made on certify collection of foot bones with an electronic caliper to the nearest 0.01 mm. A statistical analysis of the fingers variability and sex differences of 15 osteometric pointers and indexes was made. Classic osteometric indexes by Alekseev V.P., indexes elaborated by the authors, indexes of fluctuating asymmetry and partial finger indexes was used. Authors found that the variability of osteometric pointers and indexes of fingers supports the hypothesis about the leading role of the second and fourth rays in morphogenesis and bone architecture of the autopodium of foot, which play a key role in the determination of hormonemediated sex differences...