Bioarcheological Study on a Human Skeleton of Sabatinovka Culture, Discovered at Novosiolovca (Taraclia District, Republic of Moldova)

Although cranial and dental nonmetric traits have proven to be reliable proxies for genetic data, the usefulness of infracranial nonmetric traits as phenetic markers in population affinity studies remains unclear. Our aim was to analyze infracranial and cranial nonmetric trait frequencies in the same samples in comparison with genetic data to determine the value of infracranial nonmetric traits in assessing genetic relationships among populations. We examined the frequencies of 25 cranial and 16 infracranial nonmetric traits in seven adult osteological samples from different regions of northern Eurasia (northern Russians, indigenous populations of Volga–Ural region, Buryats, and Yupik) and the data on mitochondrial DNA polymorphisms in the same ethnic groups. The biological distance between each pair of samples was estimated using the Smith's mean measure of divergence (MMD) for nonmetric traits and Cavalli–Sforza distance measure for mtDNA data. Mantel correlations were calculated between two matrices of mean measures of divergence (MMD) distances, and a multidimensional scaling (MDS) procedure was applied to each matrix. The Mantel test showed a strong correlation between the two nonmetric distance matrices. The three‐dimensional spatial representations of each matrix revealed similar patterns of intergroup differences. On both nonmetric MDS maps, the sample locations roughly reflected the geographic separation of the groups, with the exception of northern Russians, who were grouped with Volga–Ural populations. Comparison of our results with those obtained from genetic data confirmed that both sets of nonmetric traits provide reliable genetic affinities among the samples. The association of northern Russians with the Volga–Ural groups can be explained by their genetic background. Our findings show that infracranial nonmetric traits can be successfully used as phenetic markers to define a population's affinity and divergence, particularly in cases where only infracranial bones are available for study.

IntroductionMorphological and morphometric features of the teeth are of interest to various clinical and academic dental and medical fields including prosthodontics, orthodontics, anatomy and anthropology, pathology, archeology, and forensic dentistry. These have been more or less researched in the case of the permanent dentition. However when it comes to the primary dentition, the literature is scarce and controversial. No study worldwide exists on the cutoff points (thresholds) for sex identification; no study exists on metric or nonmetric traits of deciduous teeth in Iranians. Hence, the aim of the study was to assess both the metric and nonmetric traits of primary molars, as well as their cut-off points for sex identification.MethodsIn this epidemiological cross-sectional study, pretreatment casts of 110 children (51 boys and 59 girls) aged 6 to 12 years were collected. Maxillary and mandibular first and second primary molars were evaluated regarding their metric traits (mesiodistal and buccolingual widths) and 9 nonmetric traits (Accessory cusp on the upper D, Accessory cusp on the lower D, Fifth cusp on the upper E, Carabelli’s cusp on the upper E, Protostylid on the lower E, Fifth cusp on the lower E, Sixth cusp on the lower E, Tuberculum intermedium [metaconulid] on the lower E, and Deflecting wrinkle on the lower E). ROC curves were used to identify cut-off points for sex determination as well as the usefulness of metric measurements for this purpose. Data were analyzed using independent-samples and paired-samples t-tests, McNemar, Fisher, and chi-square tests, plus Pearson and Spearman correlation coefficients (α = 0.05).ResultsAll the primary molars’ coronal dimensions (both mesiodistal and buccolingual) were extremely useful for sex identification (ROC curves, all P values ≤ 0.0000099). Especially, the mandibular primary molars (areas under ROC curves [AUCs] between 85.6 and 90.4%, P values ≤ 0.0000006) were more useful than the maxillary ones (AUCs between 80.4 and 83.1%, P values ≤ 0. 0000099). In the mandible, the first primary molar (maximum AUC = 90.4%) was better than the second molar (maximum AUC = 86.0%). The optimum thresholds for sex determination were reported. Sex dimorphism was significant in buccolingual and mesiodistal crown widths of all the primary molars (all P values ≤ 0.000132), but it was seen only in the case of 2 nonmetric traits: Deflecting wrinkle (P = 0.001) and Tuberculum intermedium (metaconulid, P = 0.029) on the lower Es, taking into account the unilateral and bilateral cases. The occurrence of nonmetric traits was symmetrical between the right and left sides (all P values ≥ 0.250). All mesiodistal and two buccolingual molar measurements were as well symmetrical (P > 0.1); however, two buccolingual measurements were asymmetrical: in the case of the maxillary E (P = 0.0002) and mandibular D (P = 0.019). There were three weak-to-moderate correlations between the nonmetric traits of the mandibular second molars (Spearman correlations between 22.7 and 37.5%, P values ≤ 0.045). Up to 6 concurrent nonmetric traits were observed in the sample, with 53.6% of the sample showing at least 2 concurrent nonmetric traits at the same time, without any sex dimorphism (P = 0.658).ConclusionSex dimorphism exists considerably in primary molars’ sizes, but it is not as prevalent in their nonmetric traits or abnormalities. Primary molars’ crown sizes are useful for sex identification; we calculated optimum cut-off points for this purpose, for the first time.

The site of Taraclia-Gaidabul belongs to a type known as ash mounds, although it is now known that they do not in fact contain ash at all. The ash mounds represent settlement remains of the Noua-Sabatinovka-Coslogeni cultural complex, which is found in the northern Black Sea region. There is an ongoing debate about the subsistence of this Late Bronze Age society: were they mobile pastoralists or settled farmers?Unfortunately, there is a lack of pollen diagrams for this region and period, so landscape reconstructions are difficult. Nevertheless, it seems that the landscape was characterised by forest steppe in the north and dry grass steppe in the south. Arable farming would have been challenging without artificial irrigation. Because archaeobotanical remains are scarce, it is hoped that the faunal analysis of Taraclia-Gaidabul can contribute to the question of subsistence and lifestyle: mobile or settled.During four excavation campaigns (2016–2019), more than 15000 animal bones were recorded and studied. Results from the zooarchaeological analysis show a dominance of cattle, followed by sheep and goat and horse. Pig is rare and wild animals also played only a minor role in nutrition, although the variety among the small number of wild animal remains is considerable. It seems that cattle were exploited for both milk and labour, while sheep and goat provided meat, wool and milk. Horses were used for transport, an additional source of meat and perhaps also for milk. Animal remains provide some indications that the settlement was occupied all year round.This paper will place the results of the faunal analysis for Taraclia-Gaidabul in a wider context through a regional comparison of subsistence strategies.

To investigate the biological diversity of the late Bronze and Iron Age populations in the Armenian Highland by nonmetric cranial traits, evaluate the genetic continuity in the development of the modern Armenian gene pool, and compare the results obtained with genetic data. Twenty-eight nonmetric cranial traits were scored on 498 adult crania from different late Bronze and Iron Age cemeteries, as well as from modern Armenians and other European populations. We carried out a biodistance analysis between populations using the mean measure of divergence (MMD) statistics, tested the spatial-temporal model of population structure, and assessed the diversity within the late Bronze and early Iron Ages by using the values of variability index (Fst). The biodistance analysis revealed a close relationship among different ancient Armenian populations and between the average frequencies of the three sequential periods (late Bronze Age, early Iron Age I and II) and modern Armenians. A gradual increase of variability (Fst) within the three successive periods was observed. The analysis of nonmetric trait data reflects deep roots and continuity in the formation of the Armenian population. Since at least the Late Bronze Age, owing to permanent isolation, no significant changes have occurred in the Armenian gene pool. An increase in variability over the successive periods reflects the process of population differentiation from a single gene pool while maintaining average trait frequencies. The congruence of the results obtained with the genetic data confirms, once more, the possibility of using nonmetric cranial traits as a proxy for genetic markers.

The variation of orbit shape has been investigated, especially its role in population classi- fication. However, previous studies that treated orbit shape as a linear metric or non-metric trait have not produced conclusive quantitative data to show whether orbit shape is an accurate reflection of population affinity. Thus, in this study in order to examine regional variation in the orbit shape of con- temporary Asian, African, and European populations we use geometric morphometrics with a novel standardization technique. A standardized orbital plane was obtained and each specimen was photo- graphed. The results from this study show that regional variation in orbit shape exists. The Asian orbital contour was generally tall, rounded, and its inferior contour was symmetrical. The European tended to be square and more inclined, with the African being shorter. Moreover, the orbit shape of some specimens from these three regions overlapped. The similarities between the Asian and European samples were much smaller than those between Africans and Asians, or Africans and Europeans. Ad- ditionally, intergroup variability was larger on the bones of the maxilla and zygoma which form the in- ferior contour of the orbit, compared with the frontal bone forming the superior contour. The most variable areas of the orbit concentrate on the internal aspect of the upper margin, on the contours near the frontomalare orbitale and zygomaxillare. The application of geometric morphometrics with the newly developed standardization protocol to examine orbit shape between individuals from different geographic areas, has demonstrated its use to measure quantitatively human orbit shape, variation, and population affinity.

The Open Science concept represents a new approach to the way in which scientific research based on cooperation and new ways of knowledge dissemination is carried out and organized, using new digital technologies, new tools for collaboration, and R&D infrastructure to ensure open access to research data. This study uses data collected in May - July 2018 within a survey that aimed at investigating the scientific data ecosystem in the Republic of Moldova. Findings show that, although there are some concerns about the loss of property rights and copyright infringement in case of sharing and open access to research data, Moldovan academia is ready to provide access to research data. The research has highlighted that a new challenge is needed to solve scientific data issues by creating new type of infrastructure to ensure data retention, broad access to research results for the purpose of their dissemination and use, and creating new research opportunities based on research data.

Un diagnostic archéologique réalisé par le service départemental de l’archéologie de Vendée a mis au jour un dépôt de parures annulaires enfoui dans un contexte particulier, topographique d’une part, mais surtout archéologique, au lieu-dit le Vrignoux à Aizenay. En effet, des fosses associées à ce dépôt livrent pour certaines de la céramique, et pour d’autres des fragments de stèles, réemployés comme éléments de calage. Deux autres stèles de petite taille, mais complètes, ont été découvertes, l’une dans un fossé parcellaire subactuel, et l’autre, mise à bas à côté de sa fosse d’implantation. Cet article propose, après une présentation du contexte de découverte et des structures du site, une description des stèles, à la fois sur un plan technologique – ce qui permet de démontrer qu’elles ont bien été façonnées – et sur un plan typologique. En l’absence d’élément de datation direct du contexte originel d’implantation de ces stèles, leur mise en perspective dans un cadre plus large, à l’échelle notamment du domaine atlantique où les découvertes de ces petites stèles anthropomorphes se multiplient, permet d’envisager une origine néolithique. L’étude céramique, la réalisation de plusieurs datations 14C et l’analyse du dépôt de parures annulaires convergent pour attribuer l’enfouissement du dépôt et la remobilisation des stèles entre la fin du Bronze moyen 1 et le début du Bronze moyen 2, soit entre la fin du XVIe et la première moitié du XVe siècle avant notre ère. Si l’interprétation du contexte dans lequel le dépôt a été effectué est discutée, on retiendra surtout, outre la probable pérennité du site, l’originalité des pratiques étudiées. En effet, le contexte du dépôt, en lien avec des structures bâties, est inédit dans la région. Ces pratiques sont mises en relation avec les remobilisations mégalithiques à l’âge du Bronze. Qui plus est, aux objets métalliques sont associées de la céramique et des datations 14C. Celles-ci suggèrent une attribution légèrement plus ancienne que ce qui était envisagé jusqu’ici pour ce type de parure annulaire à tige grêle, à section quadrangulaire ou biconvexe et extrémités indifférenciées, dont la répartition correspondrait aux contours d’un groupe régional spécifique, que le dépôt d’Aizenay contribue à mieux caractériser.

Classical bioanthropology analyzes skeletal markers to interpret the demography, health, and lifestyle of ancient populations. However, this becomes challenging when remains are poorly preserved or commingled. Nevertheless, it is possible to identify markers that help interpret population aspects. For this purpose, we propose using nonmetric traits of the lower limbs as indicators of habitual posture and functional adaptation to occupational activities. Our study analyzed two Sicanian populations from Sicily: Ponte della Paolina (Late Bronze Age) and Baucina (7th–5th centuries BCE). Morphological traits were recorded on adult lower limb bones, including Poirier’s facet, vastus notch, and accessory articular facets. Frequencies were calculated by bone and side, and statistical association tests (Fisher’s Exact and Chi-square) were applied to assess inter- and intra-population variation. Patterns consistent with prolonged crouching and foot dorsiflexion at Ponte della Paolina were found through functional analysis of trait combinations. Baucina individuals exhibited similar patterns, alongside traits suggesting more dynamic activity, such as walking on uneven terrain. The study emphasizes how useful nonmetric traits are for reconstructing postural and adaptations habitual behaviors in past populations.

In this work we aim to investigate the origins and genetic affinities of Bronze Age populations (2,400-1,100 BC) from the region of southern Poland and to trace maternal kinship patterns present in the burials of those populations by the use of complete mitochondrial genomes. We performed ancient DNA analyses for Bronze Age individuals from present-day Poland associated with the Strzyżow culture, the Mierzanowice culture, and the Trzciniec Cultural circle. To obtain complete mitochondrial genomes, we sequenced genomic libraries using Illumina platform. Additionally, hybridization capture was used to enrich some of the samples for mitochondrial DNA. AMS 14 C-dating was conducted for 51 individuals to verify chronological and cultural attribution of the analyzed samples. Complete ancient mitochondrial genomes were generated for 80 of the Bronze Age individuals from present-day Poland. The results of the population genetic analyses indicate close maternal genetic affinity between Mierzanowice, Trzciniec, and Corded Ware culture-associated populations. This is in contrast to the genetically more distant Strzyżów people that displayed closer maternal genetic relation to steppe populations associated with the preceding Yamnaya culture and Catacomb culture, and with later Scythians. Potential maternal kinship relations were identified in burials of Mierzanowice and Trzciniec populations analyzed in this study. Results revealed genetic continuity from the Late Neolithic Corded Ware groups to Bronze Age Mierzanowice and Trzciniec-associated populations, and possible additional genetic contribution from the steppe to the formation of the Strzyżów-associated group at the end of 3rd millennium BC. Mitochondrial patterns indicated several pairs of potentially maternally related individuals mostly in Trzciniec-associated group.

Morphological variations of the deciduous dentition are as useful as those of the permanent dentition for determining the biological affinities of human populations. This paper provides material on morphological variations of deciduous teeth of the prehistoric Japanese population from the Late and the Latest Jomon Period (ca. 2000-ca. 300 B.C.). The expression of nonmetric traits of the deciduous teeth in the Jomon sample shows a closer affinity with modern Japanese and Native American samples than with American White, Asiatic Indian, and African samples. However, the frequency of shoveling in deciduous upper incisors in the Jomon sample is lower than those in modern Japanese and Native American samples. The Jomon sample also expresses a much higher frequency of cusp 6 in deciduous lower second molars than seen in modern Japanese, Ainu, and Native American samples. The frequency in the Jomon sample is equal to that in the Australian Aboriginal sample, which shows cusp 6 most frequently among the samples compared. A somewhat low incidence of incisor shoveling in the Jomon sample was also reported in the permanent dentition (Turner [1976] Science 193:911-913, [1979] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 51:619-635, [1987] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 73:305-321, [1990] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 82:295-317; T. Hanihara [1992] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 88:163-182, 88:183-196). However, the frequency of cusp 6 in the Jomon sample shows no significant difference from those of Northeast Asian or Native American samples in the permanent dentition (Turner [1987] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 73:305-321; T. Hanihara [1992] Am. J. Phys. Anthropol. 88:163-182, 88:183-196). Evidently, some nonmetric traits express an inter-group difference only in the deciduous dentition.

Non-metric traits and anatomical variants that can mimic trauma in the human skeleton

Biological distance, representing the determination of differences between populations relying on features con­trolled in most cases by more than one gene, is determined for populations having lived in the past by using anthroposcopic [non-metric] and anthropometric [metric] traits developing in dependence on both environmental and genetic factors. This study on the skulls of344 male skeletons belonging to twelve Anatolian populations which lived during various periods and in various places, dating from the Early Bronze Age to the first quarter of the twentieth cen­tury, and stored in Hacettepe University's Biological Anthropology Laboratory, was conducted using 20 met­ric and 28 non-metric traits with the aim of comparing of these two variables in studies of biological distance in Anatolian populations and determining the biological relationship between these populations. In order to determine biological distances from metric variables, Mahalanobis's Generalized Distance (D2) was used In order to determine biological distances from non-metric traits, MMD statistics were used. Utilizing the SHAN cluster method in the NT-SYS packet program, fenograms were created for the distance matrices belong­ing to both variables found in dual comparisons of Anatolian populations. Fenograms created from D2 matrix calculated from metric variables and fenograms created from MMD matrix calculated from trait variables produced relatively similar results. In addition, in this study both chronologic and geographic distance were shown to be better reflected in non-metric traits than in metric traits. Results produced from these variables were determined to be more in accord with archaeologic and historical data than result from metric variables. This study has shown that, contrary to studies in the biological anthropology literature claiming that non-metric traits are insufficient in studies of biological distance in comparison with metric vari­ables, these traits can accurately reflect relationships between populations. However, it is thought that especial­ly in studies of biological distance, by keeping the sample size sufficient and approximately equal, using both variables together will produce more sound results.

VIRVELINĖS KERAMIKOS KULTŪRA LIETUVOJE 2800–2400 cal BC

Measurements of the talus in the assessment of population affinity

Relevance. The article substantiates the relevance of the search for practice-oriented technologies in the training of university students. The subject of the research is service learning technology, which combines academic training and practical activities of future teachers in specific situations in the interests of people in need of support. The purpose of the article is to substantiate the potential of service learning technology in preparing students to ensure the psychological safety of schoolchildren with limited health opportunities. Research methods: literature analysis on the research problem, data systematization, survey, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, including percentage analysis. Study participants: students of T.G. Shevchenko Pridnestrovian State University (Republic of Moldova). The results of the study. The awareness of students about the service learning method and their readiness to master it is revealed. The essence of the concept of service learning is revealed, the experience of its application in foreign and domestic universities is described, the possibility of its use in the work of preparing students to ensure the psychological safety of schoolchildren with disabilities is substantiated. The model of formation of students’ readiness to ensure the psychological safety of schoolchildren with disabilities is presented. Conclusion. The practical significance of the research is expressed in the creation of a comfortable and safe educational environment declared for the priority purposes of the state. Service learning technology ensures the effective formation of professional competencies among students to ensure the psychological safety of children with disabilities and involves the use of trainings, games, exercises to relieve anxiety and aggressiveness of children, identifying threats and risks of psychological safety in real conditions of specific situations.