Human+Remains



HUMAN REMAINS & DEATH EVENT
Ø  Examining Remains: o  Differentiation human from nonhuman animal bone and teeth is a critical part in examination. In most jurisdictions, skeletal materials that are found on private or public land, is given to the medical examiner, then to the forensic anthropologist. Ø  Taphonomic Assessment: o  First step in examining remains is to perform a taphonomic assessment, including a full inventory, evaluation of the remains, and an estimation of time since death. Inventory- anthropologist identify all skeletal elements found, whether it is adult or immature. The assessment is composed of matching pairs of bones and finding missing parts. If remains are still fleshed or decomposed, an x-ray will be performed before the soft tissue is removed. Ø  Issues in identification: o  Identifications are sometimes based on circumstantial evidence such as; clothing, location, pathological condition, and examiners require positive identification, meaning identification beyond a reasonable doubt. Identification requires a match using a few techniques such as; DNA analysis, fingerprints, dental records, and x-rays. Ø  Ossification centers- o  the skeleton is formed by the development of ossification which replace cartilidge. In long bones, bony tissue develops from a set of three main ossification centers: the shaft/ diaphysis, and an epiphysis at either end. Ø  Age- Related Patterns in Adulthood; Bone density Changes; o  The bony skeleton changes continually until death. Bone density depends on factors other than age and hormonal status. Bone density can be observed macroscopically, or by radiographically. Pelvic Joint Morphology- two of the most reliable indicators of adult age are public symphysis and iliac auricular surface morphology. Ø  Permiortem Trauma and Evidence for cause and manner of death; o  Perimortem Injury- Human remains frequently show signs of trauma, both antemortem and perimoretem. By making a note of the presence of active bone remodeling the formation of a bony scar or callus at the site of a fracture, the anthropolist can assign a traumatic injury to the antemortem period.

BONEY QUIZ!

1) What is a critical part in an anthropologists examination? a) picking your nose hairs b) differentiate human from non-human bones c) assess the body d) determining the time the bones have been there

2) What is the first step in a taphonomy assesment a) complete a full inventory b) determine the sex of the individual c) take pictures

3)