This study examines evidence of nutritional and disease-related stress indicators in 33 human bur... more This study examines evidence of nutritional and disease-related stress indicators in 33 human burials excavated from CA-SOL-451 (Encinosa Site), a late Holocene site (2450-1530 cal BP) located in Vacaville, California. We hypothesize that the prevalence of nutritional stress indicators (cribra orbitalia, porotic hyperostosis, linear enamel hypoplasia) and infectious disease (tibial periosteal lesions, dental caries) will be lower at SOL-451 than in contemporaneous Middle Period site components from the more densely settled lower Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Area. Results indicate that levels of nutritional stress vary between sites, with SOL-451 showing a significantly lower prevalence of cribra orbitalia and porotic hyperostosis compared with Bay Area groups. The prevalence of linear enamel hypoplasia defects was also significantly lower at SOL-451 compared to groups from the Valley and Bay Area. The prevalence of dental caries at SOL-451 was similar to other Bay Area po...
... proteins, carbohydrates, and lip-ids). The δ13C value of bone collagen is biased toward the p... more ... proteins, carbohydrates, and lip-ids). The δ13C value of bone collagen is biased toward the protein component of the diet (Ambrose and Norr 1993; Ambrose et al. 1997; Tieszen and Fagre 1993). This observation supports earlier ...
This article evaluates age of weaning and early childhood diets of eight males and nine females f... more This article evaluates age of weaning and early childhood diets of eight males and nine females from a Middle Holocene (4300-3000 BP) site in Central California, CA-CCO-548. All individuals died as adults. δ(15) N values from serial sections of dentin collagen in first molars suggest females were fully weaned, on average, by 3.6 years of age, about 0.4 years later than males in the sample, suggesting possible greater parental investment in female offspring. However, throughout childhood females consumed lower trophic-level foods than males. This could indicate greater investment in males through provisioning of higher quality foods, or alternatively, some degree of independent foraging by males starting as early as 2 to 3 years of age. Even as adults, these same males and females consumed a different range of foods as indicated by their bone collagen δ(13) C and δ(15) N values. Overall, the data suggest children were enculturated early into their respective gendered diets, with girls consuming greater amounts of plant foods and boys consuming greater amounts of higher-trophic level fish and meat protein.
To present individual body identification efforts, as part of the World Trade Center (WTC) mass d... more To present individual body identification efforts, as part of the World Trade Center (WTC) mass disaster identification project. More than 500 samples were tested by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and short tandem repeat (STR) typing. The extent to which the remains were fragmented and affected by taphonomic factors complicated the identification project. Anthropologists reviewed 19,000 samples, and detected inconsistencies in 69, which were further split into 239 new cases and re-sampled by DNA specialists. The severity and nature of the disaster required an interdisciplinary effort. DNA profiling of 500 samples was successful in 75% of the cases. All discrepancies, which occurred between bone and tissue samples taken from the same body part, were resolved by re-sampling and re-testing of preferably bone tissue. Anthropologists detected inconsistencies in 69 cases, which were then split into 239 new cases. Out of 125 "split" cases, 65 were excluded fr...
Abstract This study presents a differential diagnosis of benign mandibular tumours identified in ... more Abstract This study presents a differential diagnosis of benign mandibular tumours identified in two adult burials from the precontact Maya city of Tikal, Guatemala. Both individuals were recovered from domestic structures that date to the Late Classic Period (AD 550–850). The osseous growths were interpreted as probable benign tumours based on evidence of localised growth, a circumscribed border, a dense texture and a lack of osteolytic activity or spiculate bone formation.
The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive intr... more The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive introductory text that approaches forensic anthropology as a modern and well-developed science. This effort includes consideration of forensic anthropology within the broader forensic science community, extensive use of case studies, and discussion of the most recent research, technology, and challenges in the field. We approach this through an innovative style using ground truths and case experience from our varied backgrounds and current practices as working forensic anthropologists. This book is not intended as a technical manual, but as a scientific text designed to guide the reader through the various components of forensic anthropology. We present principles at a level that is appropriate for those new to the field, while at the same time incorporating evolutionary, biomechanical, and other theoretical explanations for the features and phenomena observed. We believe that the student or aspiring practitioner should not only be able to detect, measure, and evaluate relevant features of the skeleton, but should also appreciate the scientific principles that underpin them and their variants. This text is also distinctive for its inclusion of topics such as requirements to practice forensic anthropology, the types of jobs that are available to the aspiring practitioner, and how students can become more involved in the field. In addition, this text presents current perspectives and developments, including the incorporation of “best practices” as identified by the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Anthropology (SWGANTH). Although seminal works are noted, attention is given primarily to the most recent and most scientifically valid applications commonly employed by working forensic anthropologists. Some of these new techniques are significantly more complex than traditional forensic anthropological approaches, but we believe that their inclusion is important so that the student is aware of the breadth and scope of the field, is informed about innovative techniques in the discipline, and is prepared by understanding the necessary background of those who practice in the field today (for example, a strong background in metric analysis and statistics). This text is well-suited for introductory or upper level courses in forensic anthropology including courses taught in anthropology programs as well as those taught in the growing number of forensic science programs. This text can stand alone in a forensic anthropology course and would also serve as an appropriate supplemental reference for other courses involving human identification or skeletal biology, or as a supplemental text for a human osteology course. Although we do not see this text as a primary professional reference for practicing forensic anthropologists, it could serve as a general reference for professionals with little or no training in forensic anthropology, including physical anthropologists trained in other areas of the field (such as paleoanthropology or primatology), archaeologists, forensic scientists, dentists, pathologists, crime and death scene investigators, law enforcement, and legal professionals. This text is applicable to coursework in forensic anthropology and archaeology internationally. Although some aspects are U.S.-specific (e.g., the U.S. legal system), the vast majority of the material in the text is internationally applicable and is therefore suitable for a forensic anthropology course in countries outside the United States. Further, this text addresses issues of international forensic anthropological relevance including armed conflict and human rights investigations.
The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive intr... more The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive introductory text that approaches forensic anthropology as a modern and well-developed science. This effort includes consideration of forensic anthropology within the broader forensic science community, extensive use of case studies, and discussion of the most recent research, technology, and challenges in the field. We approach this through an innovative style using ground truths and case experience from our varied backgrounds and current practices as working forensic anthropologists. This book is not intended as a technical manual, but as a scientific text designed to guide the reader through the various components of forensic anthropology. We present principles at a level that is appropriate for those new to the field, while at the same time incorporating evolutionary, biomechanical, and other theoretical explanations for the features and phenomena observed. We believe that the student or aspiring practitioner should not only be able to detect, measure, and evaluate relevant features of the skeleton, but should also appreciate the scientific principles that underpin them and their variants. This text is also distinctive for its inclusion of topics such as requirements to practice forensic anthropology, the types of jobs that are available to the aspiring practitioner, and how students can become more involved in the field. In addition, this text presents current perspectives and developments, including the incorporation of “best practices” as identified by the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Anthropology (SWGANTH). Although seminal works are noted, attention is given primarily to the most recent and most scientifically valid applications commonly employed by working forensic anthropologists. Some of these new techniques are significantly more complex than traditional forensic anthropological approaches, but we believe that their inclusion is important so that the student is aware of the breadth and scope of the field, is informed about innovative techniques in the discipline, and is prepared by understanding the necessary background of those who practice in the field today (for example, a strong background in metric analysis and statistics). This text is well-suited for introductory or upper level courses in forensic anthropology including courses taught in anthropology programs as well as those taught in the growing number of forensic science programs. This text can stand alone in a forensic anthropology course and would also serve as an appropriate supplemental reference for other courses involving human identification or skeletal biology, or as a supplemental text for a human osteology course. Although we do not see this text as a primary professional reference for practicing forensic anthropologists, it could serve as a general reference for professionals with little or no training in forensic anthropology, including physical anthropologists trained in other areas of the field (such as paleoanthropology or primatology), archaeologists, forensic scientists, dentists, pathologists, crime and death scene investigators, law enforcement, and legal professionals. This text is applicable to coursework in forensic anthropology and archaeology internationally. Although some aspects are U.S.-specific (e.g., the U.S. legal system), the vast majority of the material in the text is internationally applicable and is therefore suitable for a forensic anthropology course in countries outside the United States. Further, this text addresses issues of international forensic anthropological relevance including armed conflict and human rights investigations.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has occasionally been used by anthropologists and forensic sci... more Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has occasionally been used by anthropologists and forensic scientists to look at morphological characteristics that certain implements leave on bone. However, few studies have addressed techniques or protocols for assessing quantitative differences between tool marks on bone made by different bladed implements. In this study, the statistical variation in cut mark width was examined between control and test samples on bone using a scalpel blade, paring knife, and kitchen utility knife. Statistically significant differences (p < .0005) were found between cut marks made by the same knife under control and test conditions for all three knife types used in the study. When the control sample and test samples were examined individually for differences in mean variation between knife types, significant differences were also found (p < .0005). While significant differences in cut mark width were found, caution should be used in trying to classify indi...
Since the 1980s, cremation has become the fastest growing area of the U.S. funeral industry. At t... more Since the 1980s, cremation has become the fastest growing area of the U.S. funeral industry. At the same time, the number of litigations against funeral homes and cremation facilities has increased. Forensic anthropologists are often asked to determine whether the contents of an urn are actually cremated bone, and to address questions regarding the identity of the remains. This study uses both metric and chemical analyses for resolving a case of contested cremains. A cremains weight of 2021.8 g was predicted based on the decedent&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s reported stature and weight. However, the urn contents weighed 4173.5 g. The urn contents also contained material inconsistent with cremains (e.g., moist sediment, stones, ferrous metal). Analysis using XRD and SEM demonstrated that the urn contained thermally altered bone as well as inorganic material consistent with glass fiber cement. Although forensically challenging, cremains cases such as this one can be resolved using a multidisciplinary approach.
ABSTRACT The application of stable isotope analysis has provided novel approaches for provenancin... more ABSTRACT The application of stable isotope analysis has provided novel approaches for provenancing unidentified human remains from forensic contexts. Stable isotope ratios measured in human tissues provide a record of the foods consumed during life as well as the geographic location where drinking water or food was obtained. This study begins with an overview of the application of stable isotope analysis for provenancing human remains, followed by three cases that illustrate how chemical signatures in bone reflect a probable region of origin. Using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes of human bone, we test whether human skeletal remains recovered by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command-Central Identification Laboratory (JPAC-CIL, or CIL) reflect a geographic origin within North America or Asia. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes of human bone collagen and stable carbon isotopes of bone apatite reflect consumption of food resources that are expected to vary between world regions due to cultural dietary differences. Based on the isotopic differences, a testable hypothesis of geographic origin can be applied, determining if the remains are more likely of a U.S. service person or of an indigenous local. We believe that this approach can provide useful information for narrowing search parameters in unidentified persons cases; can contribute to human rights cases where an unknown individual is thought to originate from a different geographic area; and, in human remains cases of unknown geographic provenience, can determine whether a person is local or nonlocal.
ABSTRACT A skeleton excavated from the Blossom Mound (CA-SJO-68), a Late Holocene (4350–2980 BP) ... more ABSTRACT A skeleton excavated from the Blossom Mound (CA-SJO-68), a Late Holocene (4350–2980 BP) site located in the northern San Joaquin Valley of California, exhibits evidence of unusual craniofacial and postcranial features consistent with endocrine disease. Burial 37, an adult male approximately 30–40 years of age, shows pronounced development of the mental eminence, glabellar region, and supraorbital arches, as well as elongation of the mandibular ramus, crowding and malocclusion of the anterior dentition, and periosteal bone formation at several enthesis sites. In addition, abnormal enlargement of the sella turcica as well as pneumatization of the frontal and maxillary sinus and mastoid air cells was observed. These skeletal characteristics are consistent with a diagnosis of acromegaly, an endocrine disorder characterized by the enlargement of bone and soft tissue resulting from a pituitary gland tumor that increases the secretion of growth hormone. Onset typically occurs after epiphyseal fusion, a characteristic that distinguishes it from gigantism. This case study utilizes current clinical criteria for diagnosing acromegaly in human skeletal remains and discusses other evidence of this rare condition in the archeological record.
Pelvic ring fractures are associated with high rates of mortality and thus can provide key inform... more Pelvic ring fractures are associated with high rates of mortality and thus can provide key information about circumstances surrounding death. These injuries can be particularly informative in skeletonized remains, yet difficult to diagnose and interpret. This study adapted a clinical system of classifying pelvic ring fractures according to their resultant degree of pelvic stability for application to gross human skeletal remains. The modified Tile criteria were applied to the skeletal remains of 22 individuals from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México that displayed evidence of pelvic injury. Because these categories are tied directly to clinical assessments concerning the severity and treatment of injuries, this approach can aid in the identification of manner and cause of death, as well as interpretations of possible mechanisms of injury, such as those typical in car-to-pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.
This study examines evidence of nutritional and disease-related stress indicators in 33 human bur... more This study examines evidence of nutritional and disease-related stress indicators in 33 human burials excavated from CA-SOL-451 (Encinosa Site), a late Holocene site (2450-1530 cal BP) located in Vacaville, California. We hypothesize that the prevalence of nutritional stress indicators (cribra orbitalia, porotic hyperostosis, linear enamel hypoplasia) and infectious disease (tibial periosteal lesions, dental caries) will be lower at SOL-451 than in contemporaneous Middle Period site components from the more densely settled lower Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Area. Results indicate that levels of nutritional stress vary between sites, with SOL-451 showing a significantly lower prevalence of cribra orbitalia and porotic hyperostosis compared with Bay Area groups. The prevalence of linear enamel hypoplasia defects was also significantly lower at SOL-451 compared to groups from the Valley and Bay Area. The prevalence of dental caries at SOL-451 was similar to other Bay Area po...
... proteins, carbohydrates, and lip-ids). The δ13C value of bone collagen is biased toward the p... more ... proteins, carbohydrates, and lip-ids). The δ13C value of bone collagen is biased toward the protein component of the diet (Ambrose and Norr 1993; Ambrose et al. 1997; Tieszen and Fagre 1993). This observation supports earlier ...
This article evaluates age of weaning and early childhood diets of eight males and nine females f... more This article evaluates age of weaning and early childhood diets of eight males and nine females from a Middle Holocene (4300-3000 BP) site in Central California, CA-CCO-548. All individuals died as adults. δ(15) N values from serial sections of dentin collagen in first molars suggest females were fully weaned, on average, by 3.6 years of age, about 0.4 years later than males in the sample, suggesting possible greater parental investment in female offspring. However, throughout childhood females consumed lower trophic-level foods than males. This could indicate greater investment in males through provisioning of higher quality foods, or alternatively, some degree of independent foraging by males starting as early as 2 to 3 years of age. Even as adults, these same males and females consumed a different range of foods as indicated by their bone collagen δ(13) C and δ(15) N values. Overall, the data suggest children were enculturated early into their respective gendered diets, with girls consuming greater amounts of plant foods and boys consuming greater amounts of higher-trophic level fish and meat protein.
To present individual body identification efforts, as part of the World Trade Center (WTC) mass d... more To present individual body identification efforts, as part of the World Trade Center (WTC) mass disaster identification project. More than 500 samples were tested by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and short tandem repeat (STR) typing. The extent to which the remains were fragmented and affected by taphonomic factors complicated the identification project. Anthropologists reviewed 19,000 samples, and detected inconsistencies in 69, which were further split into 239 new cases and re-sampled by DNA specialists. The severity and nature of the disaster required an interdisciplinary effort. DNA profiling of 500 samples was successful in 75% of the cases. All discrepancies, which occurred between bone and tissue samples taken from the same body part, were resolved by re-sampling and re-testing of preferably bone tissue. Anthropologists detected inconsistencies in 69 cases, which were then split into 239 new cases. Out of 125 "split" cases, 65 were excluded fr...
Abstract This study presents a differential diagnosis of benign mandibular tumours identified in ... more Abstract This study presents a differential diagnosis of benign mandibular tumours identified in two adult burials from the precontact Maya city of Tikal, Guatemala. Both individuals were recovered from domestic structures that date to the Late Classic Period (AD 550–850). The osseous growths were interpreted as probable benign tumours based on evidence of localised growth, a circumscribed border, a dense texture and a lack of osteolytic activity or spiculate bone formation.
The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive intr... more The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive introductory text that approaches forensic anthropology as a modern and well-developed science. This effort includes consideration of forensic anthropology within the broader forensic science community, extensive use of case studies, and discussion of the most recent research, technology, and challenges in the field. We approach this through an innovative style using ground truths and case experience from our varied backgrounds and current practices as working forensic anthropologists. This book is not intended as a technical manual, but as a scientific text designed to guide the reader through the various components of forensic anthropology. We present principles at a level that is appropriate for those new to the field, while at the same time incorporating evolutionary, biomechanical, and other theoretical explanations for the features and phenomena observed. We believe that the student or aspiring practitioner should not only be able to detect, measure, and evaluate relevant features of the skeleton, but should also appreciate the scientific principles that underpin them and their variants. This text is also distinctive for its inclusion of topics such as requirements to practice forensic anthropology, the types of jobs that are available to the aspiring practitioner, and how students can become more involved in the field. In addition, this text presents current perspectives and developments, including the incorporation of “best practices” as identified by the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Anthropology (SWGANTH). Although seminal works are noted, attention is given primarily to the most recent and most scientifically valid applications commonly employed by working forensic anthropologists. Some of these new techniques are significantly more complex than traditional forensic anthropological approaches, but we believe that their inclusion is important so that the student is aware of the breadth and scope of the field, is informed about innovative techniques in the discipline, and is prepared by understanding the necessary background of those who practice in the field today (for example, a strong background in metric analysis and statistics). This text is well-suited for introductory or upper level courses in forensic anthropology including courses taught in anthropology programs as well as those taught in the growing number of forensic science programs. This text can stand alone in a forensic anthropology course and would also serve as an appropriate supplemental reference for other courses involving human identification or skeletal biology, or as a supplemental text for a human osteology course. Although we do not see this text as a primary professional reference for practicing forensic anthropologists, it could serve as a general reference for professionals with little or no training in forensic anthropology, including physical anthropologists trained in other areas of the field (such as paleoanthropology or primatology), archaeologists, forensic scientists, dentists, pathologists, crime and death scene investigators, law enforcement, and legal professionals. This text is applicable to coursework in forensic anthropology and archaeology internationally. Although some aspects are U.S.-specific (e.g., the U.S. legal system), the vast majority of the material in the text is internationally applicable and is therefore suitable for a forensic anthropology course in countries outside the United States. Further, this text addresses issues of international forensic anthropological relevance including armed conflict and human rights investigations.
The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive intr... more The principle rationale for writing this textbook was the perceived need for a comprehensive introductory text that approaches forensic anthropology as a modern and well-developed science. This effort includes consideration of forensic anthropology within the broader forensic science community, extensive use of case studies, and discussion of the most recent research, technology, and challenges in the field. We approach this through an innovative style using ground truths and case experience from our varied backgrounds and current practices as working forensic anthropologists. This book is not intended as a technical manual, but as a scientific text designed to guide the reader through the various components of forensic anthropology. We present principles at a level that is appropriate for those new to the field, while at the same time incorporating evolutionary, biomechanical, and other theoretical explanations for the features and phenomena observed. We believe that the student or aspiring practitioner should not only be able to detect, measure, and evaluate relevant features of the skeleton, but should also appreciate the scientific principles that underpin them and their variants. This text is also distinctive for its inclusion of topics such as requirements to practice forensic anthropology, the types of jobs that are available to the aspiring practitioner, and how students can become more involved in the field. In addition, this text presents current perspectives and developments, including the incorporation of “best practices” as identified by the Scientific Working Group for Forensic Anthropology (SWGANTH). Although seminal works are noted, attention is given primarily to the most recent and most scientifically valid applications commonly employed by working forensic anthropologists. Some of these new techniques are significantly more complex than traditional forensic anthropological approaches, but we believe that their inclusion is important so that the student is aware of the breadth and scope of the field, is informed about innovative techniques in the discipline, and is prepared by understanding the necessary background of those who practice in the field today (for example, a strong background in metric analysis and statistics). This text is well-suited for introductory or upper level courses in forensic anthropology including courses taught in anthropology programs as well as those taught in the growing number of forensic science programs. This text can stand alone in a forensic anthropology course and would also serve as an appropriate supplemental reference for other courses involving human identification or skeletal biology, or as a supplemental text for a human osteology course. Although we do not see this text as a primary professional reference for practicing forensic anthropologists, it could serve as a general reference for professionals with little or no training in forensic anthropology, including physical anthropologists trained in other areas of the field (such as paleoanthropology or primatology), archaeologists, forensic scientists, dentists, pathologists, crime and death scene investigators, law enforcement, and legal professionals. This text is applicable to coursework in forensic anthropology and archaeology internationally. Although some aspects are U.S.-specific (e.g., the U.S. legal system), the vast majority of the material in the text is internationally applicable and is therefore suitable for a forensic anthropology course in countries outside the United States. Further, this text addresses issues of international forensic anthropological relevance including armed conflict and human rights investigations.
Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has occasionally been used by anthropologists and forensic sci... more Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has occasionally been used by anthropologists and forensic scientists to look at morphological characteristics that certain implements leave on bone. However, few studies have addressed techniques or protocols for assessing quantitative differences between tool marks on bone made by different bladed implements. In this study, the statistical variation in cut mark width was examined between control and test samples on bone using a scalpel blade, paring knife, and kitchen utility knife. Statistically significant differences (p < .0005) were found between cut marks made by the same knife under control and test conditions for all three knife types used in the study. When the control sample and test samples were examined individually for differences in mean variation between knife types, significant differences were also found (p < .0005). While significant differences in cut mark width were found, caution should be used in trying to classify indi...
Since the 1980s, cremation has become the fastest growing area of the U.S. funeral industry. At t... more Since the 1980s, cremation has become the fastest growing area of the U.S. funeral industry. At the same time, the number of litigations against funeral homes and cremation facilities has increased. Forensic anthropologists are often asked to determine whether the contents of an urn are actually cremated bone, and to address questions regarding the identity of the remains. This study uses both metric and chemical analyses for resolving a case of contested cremains. A cremains weight of 2021.8 g was predicted based on the decedent&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;#39;s reported stature and weight. However, the urn contents weighed 4173.5 g. The urn contents also contained material inconsistent with cremains (e.g., moist sediment, stones, ferrous metal). Analysis using XRD and SEM demonstrated that the urn contained thermally altered bone as well as inorganic material consistent with glass fiber cement. Although forensically challenging, cremains cases such as this one can be resolved using a multidisciplinary approach.
ABSTRACT The application of stable isotope analysis has provided novel approaches for provenancin... more ABSTRACT The application of stable isotope analysis has provided novel approaches for provenancing unidentified human remains from forensic contexts. Stable isotope ratios measured in human tissues provide a record of the foods consumed during life as well as the geographic location where drinking water or food was obtained. This study begins with an overview of the application of stable isotope analysis for provenancing human remains, followed by three cases that illustrate how chemical signatures in bone reflect a probable region of origin. Using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes of human bone, we test whether human skeletal remains recovered by the Joint POW/MIA Accounting Command-Central Identification Laboratory (JPAC-CIL, or CIL) reflect a geographic origin within North America or Asia. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes of human bone collagen and stable carbon isotopes of bone apatite reflect consumption of food resources that are expected to vary between world regions due to cultural dietary differences. Based on the isotopic differences, a testable hypothesis of geographic origin can be applied, determining if the remains are more likely of a U.S. service person or of an indigenous local. We believe that this approach can provide useful information for narrowing search parameters in unidentified persons cases; can contribute to human rights cases where an unknown individual is thought to originate from a different geographic area; and, in human remains cases of unknown geographic provenience, can determine whether a person is local or nonlocal.
ABSTRACT A skeleton excavated from the Blossom Mound (CA-SJO-68), a Late Holocene (4350–2980 BP) ... more ABSTRACT A skeleton excavated from the Blossom Mound (CA-SJO-68), a Late Holocene (4350–2980 BP) site located in the northern San Joaquin Valley of California, exhibits evidence of unusual craniofacial and postcranial features consistent with endocrine disease. Burial 37, an adult male approximately 30–40 years of age, shows pronounced development of the mental eminence, glabellar region, and supraorbital arches, as well as elongation of the mandibular ramus, crowding and malocclusion of the anterior dentition, and periosteal bone formation at several enthesis sites. In addition, abnormal enlargement of the sella turcica as well as pneumatization of the frontal and maxillary sinus and mastoid air cells was observed. These skeletal characteristics are consistent with a diagnosis of acromegaly, an endocrine disorder characterized by the enlargement of bone and soft tissue resulting from a pituitary gland tumor that increases the secretion of growth hormone. Onset typically occurs after epiphyseal fusion, a characteristic that distinguishes it from gigantism. This case study utilizes current clinical criteria for diagnosing acromegaly in human skeletal remains and discusses other evidence of this rare condition in the archeological record.
Pelvic ring fractures are associated with high rates of mortality and thus can provide key inform... more Pelvic ring fractures are associated with high rates of mortality and thus can provide key information about circumstances surrounding death. These injuries can be particularly informative in skeletonized remains, yet difficult to diagnose and interpret. This study adapted a clinical system of classifying pelvic ring fractures according to their resultant degree of pelvic stability for application to gross human skeletal remains. The modified Tile criteria were applied to the skeletal remains of 22 individuals from the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México that displayed evidence of pelvic injury. Because these categories are tied directly to clinical assessments concerning the severity and treatment of injuries, this approach can aid in the identification of manner and cause of death, as well as interpretations of possible mechanisms of injury, such as those typical in car-to-pedestrian and motor vehicle accidents.
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