The Ethics of Sampling Human Skeletal Remains for Destructive Analyses

This article reviews the present scenario of use of stable isotopes (mainly δ13C, δ15N, δ18O, 87Sr) to trace past life behaviours like breast feeding and weaning practices, the geographic origin, migration history, paleodiet and subsistence patterns of past populations from the chemical signatures of isotopes imprinted in human skeletal remains. This approach is based on the state that food-web isotopic signatures are seen in the human bones and teeth and such signatures can change parallely with a variety of biogeochemical processes. By measuring δ13C and δ15N isotopic values of subadult tissues of different ages, the level of breast milk ingestion at particular ages and the components of the complementary foods can be assessed. Strontium and oxygen isotopic analyses have been used for determining the geographic origins and reconstructing the way of life of past populations as these isotopes can map the isotopic outline of the area from where the person acquired water and food during initial lifetime. The isotopic values of strontium and oxygen values are considered specific to geographical areas and serve as reliable chemical signatures of migration history of past human populations (local or non-local to the site). Previous isotopic studies show that the subsistence patterns of the past human populations underwent extensive changes from nomadic to complete agricultural dependence strategies. The carbon and nitrogen isotopic values of local fauna of any archaeological site can be used to elucidate the prominence of freshwater resources in the diet of the past human populations found near the site. More extensive research covering isotopic descriptions of various prehistoric, historic and modern populations is needed to explore the role of stable isotope analysis for provenancing human skeletal remains and assessing human migration patterns/routes, geographic origins, paleodiet and subsistence practices of past populations.

Assessing the relative benefits of imaging with plain radiographs and microCT scanning to diagnose cancer in past populations

The identification of heavily challenged human remains retrieved in forensic anthropological scenarios is a difficult task. The extraction of sufficient amount of high molecular weight quality DNA from such remains, its sequencing and analy sis has greatly helped in their identification pursuits. Multiple factors affect DNA preservation in skeletal remains, partic ularly the type of bone and its anatomical positioning in human body. The literature search revealed that femur, petrous bone and molar teeth are preferable sources of ancient DNA for identification of heavily damaged human remains. Present review emphasizes the comparative importance of petrous bone, femur and molar teeth in ancient DNA research and lays a foundation for future investigations that may further unravel the complexities of forensic identification of unknown human remains. The petrous bone is a comparatively highly effective and reliable source for ancient DNA due to its distinct anatomical and structural properties. The unique value of petrous bone also enables researchers to delve deeper into historical populations, offering critical insights into the origins of humans and the evolutionary forces that have shaped our species over time.

Museum collections are essential for scientific research and are diverse in nature. They include human remains and associated information. Many experience discomfort due to historical legacies and procurement practices that are often not openly discussed, which, in an age that advocates Open Science, need open discussion. Within Open Science, open Data Sharing and the FAIR principles (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable) are key guidelines for research data decisions—emphasizing “as open as possible, as closed as necessary”. This manuscript explores how data management and Open Science practices may impact on human ancestral remains, risking perpetuating practices of human remains objectification, reinforcing historical violence through digital means, if not balanced with restrictive access protocols. There is a growing concern for data care and stewardship amongst museums and allied institutions, and although the argument is based on the fairness of sharing and conscious, ethical sharing, source collection and associated data need to be questioned at its origins. Hence, the emphasis is placed on CARE principles (Collective Benefit, Authority to Control, Responsibility, Ethics) prioritising dignity, sovereignty, relationality, and ethics, moving from data accumulation and universal openness toward context-driven, community-controlled, and ethically reflexive stewardship. This approach advocates restraint, challenging museums, researchers, and funders to reconsider the objectification of ancestors and the ethical responsibilities surrounding their digital and material legacies. Ethical issues no longer relate solely to ancestral remains; they extend to their data and metadata across matters related to governance, circulation, “ownership?”, and repatriation. Alongside FAIR, one must practice CARE, and above all, allow for detachment and critical thinking.

Chapter 15 - Rapid DNA identification of human skeletal remains

The essential purpose of the forensic anthropological discipline is the identification of human remains when nearly or completely skeletonized remains are found and a standard soft tissue autopsy can no longer be performed. Identification of human skeletal remains is defined as the act of establishing an identity that permits an individual to be definable and recognizable. In archaeological and forensic contexts, identification involves the possibility to attribute a correct name to human remains. Different circumstances, such as those involve an unexplained natural death, homicide, accident or political, ethnic or religious violence, or mass disaster events, can require to establish 290the identity of a deceased individual. In all these situations, the joint use of physical and molecular methods can be effective in allowing the identification activity. This chapter will introduce the forensic anthropological activity as a fundamental tool in identification contexts of human skeletal remains and will present how a DNA analysis expert of highly degraded samples may be an important ally of physical anthropologist in challenging situations.

Although the Bronze Age is best known for its remarkable metal weapons, there is little evidence of conflict. Traumatic wounds in human skeletal remains are rare, and there have been few recognized scenes of warfare such as those known from later periods. Recent discoveries, however, have revealed evidence of a major battle in a small valley in the northeast of Germany, some 3250 years ago. Both military equipment and human and animal remains have been encountered in surveys and excavations along almost 3 km of the Tollense Valley. More than 130 human individuals have been recovered in the investigations, for the most, part young men between 20 and 40 years of age. In addition, horse bones have been found among the human remains in the riverbed and banks. This study reports on the isotopic proveniencing of the excavated remains utilizing strontium, lead, oxygen, and carbon isotopes to learn about place of origin and past diet. Two major groups can be distinguished in the isotope data, along with evidence for different homelands for some of the individuals who died in the Tollense Valley.

In the 1920s and 1930s Flinders Petrie excavated several sites in British Mandate Palestine (Tell Jemmeh, Tell Fara and Tell el-'Ajjul), encountering numerous burials dating from the Chalcolithic period down to the Ottoman period. The osteological finds were thought to have been discarded, until the authors identified a curated selection of skeletal human remains from these tombs at the Duckworth Laboratory in Cambridge in 2017/2018. Rachael Sparks conducted archival research to explore how the human remains from Petrie's excavations in the Southern Levant were recovered, recorded, curated and studied. This drew on original excavation records, contemporary publications, official and private correspondence, unpublished research notes, and the evidence of the human skeletal remains themselves.Following on this archival investigation, Nina Maaranen conducted skeletal analyses on individuals from Bronze Age contexts - recording crania and mandibles using various non-invasive, macroscopic techniques to estimate age, sex and ancestry. It was established that selected skulls were sent to Karl Pearson's Biometric Laboratory at University College in London for craniometric study as part of wider programmes of research into ancient populations. After the war, changes in the organisation of the Eugenics Department at the University led to the transfer of Pearson's collection of human skulls to the Duckworth Laboratory in Cambridge, where attempts to get the material published were unsuccessful.The current skeletal analysis of the assemblage revealed a preference for adult individuals, in line with the curation motivations of the original investigators. Earlier research on these remains was compared with our new data and contextualised within the theoretical and methodological development of bioanthropology and osteology. Our investigation successfully identified the history of this assemblage, and revealed ethical issues surrounding the collection and subsequent use of some of these human remains, particularly where there may be familial links to modern Palestinian populations.

This chapter focuses on the analysis and identification of human remains, in particular those that are skeletonised. Forensic identification of human remains is a legal duty based on the scientific compatibility of information on missing persons with unidentified human remains. When human skeletal remains are presented, the most important methods for establishing identity include DNA analysis, odontology, comparative X-ray analysis, and skull–photo comparison. Moreover, when human skeletal remains are found, it is mandatory to medically examine them in order to pronounce death and establish, if possible, time, manner, and cause of death where attainable. Once the skeletal remains have been identified as being human, subsequently, the identification of the victim’s characteristics, and cause and manner of death from the skeleton takes place. The identification of human remains is important for both legal and humanitarian reasons. Moreover, a multidisciplinary approach is very important in the case of the recovery of human skeletal remains.

Cultural attitudes regarding interactions with the deceased, the dead and contact with the lifeless human body vary throughout the world, including among Native American, First Nation, Metίs, and Inuit groups in North America. From remains that have been obtained without consent to working with cadaveric specimens, this talk addresses the beliefs and concerns of indigenous peoples regarding the use of human remains as educational specimens and interaction with the dead. Both speaker perspectives as well as preliminary results from research will address the diverse attitudes towards the dead, treatment of the dead, use of human remains for teaching and research purposes. We will also acknowledge the principle of informed consent in a colonial world. Anatomical education is often reliant on the gracious donation of humans but what are we to do if they were not obtained with consent as are many of the indigenous specimens still maintained at universities?Working with human remains can also be of concern for indigenous students with respect to their cultural beliefs. This talk will address the importance and considerations needed for indigenous students while providing the audience with a basic understanding of some of those cultural beliefs. It is not only important to have respect for the human remains but also for the students who encounter them. Anatomical educators must have an awareness of cultural and religious beliefs that are at odds with working with human remains or being in the presence of a lifeless body, so that we are prepared to provide inclusive learning environments for our students. We hope to provide an inclusive discussion on Native American and First Nation perspectives on the use of human remains in education and the proximity to death.

Four key conflicts have taken place in Zimbabwe over the past 50 years. These events have resulted in the deaths of thousands of people and have consequently led to ongoing tensions between the state, victims, and community groups. Moreover, the situation is complicated further due to the politicisation of human remains, the time elapsed since the atrocities took place, and the interment of human remains from different conflicts in the same location. In the past, unorthodox means of recovering and analysing human remains (including the use of spirit mediums) to identify the dead have been widely employed in Zimbabwe. The lack of legislation and government involvement in these matters has led to unethical practices, which has, in turn, had a profound impact on local communities. However, it is hoped that the recent implementation of the National Peace and Reconciliation Act (2018) will not only lead to the formation of a commission with the aim of investigating these atrocities, but will also lead to the development of subsidiary legislation that will address the ethics of recovering and identifying victims of conflict. The following chapter will explore ethical issues of historical exhumations alongside recommendations for future best practice in Zimbabwe.

In this chapter we aim to analyse the ethical issues associated with working with human remains, and how this has affected the different areas of professional advancement in Argentinian physical anthropology. Firstly, we explore the ethical concerns related to research involving human remains of Indigenous populations. Secondly, we comment on the development of forensic anthropology in Argentina. The analysis of skeletal remains for legal and humanitarian purposes is developed within the legal system, and usually in relation to educational and research institutions. Ethical issues arise in its contribution to the administration of justice. Finally, the legal framework concerned with, and the ethical issues derived from, working with contemporary collections of identified skeletons are analysed. In this context, institutions that have temporary or permanent custody of human remains must ensure the protection of the identity and physical integrity of the remains, and the personal or historical records associated with them. Human remains are a matter of dispute, as they are simultaneously the ancestors and heritage of Indigenous communities, objects under state rule, and material of research interest for scientists. Due to the significance that human remains have to the understanding of the history of our species, it is important to analyse the ethical issues emerging from their study, conservation, and management.

Moral and philosophical conceptions of dignity hold that a human being is entitled to receive ethical treatment, and to be respected and valued in all phases of life and even through death. Notwithstanding this truism, a single, agreed-upon definition of human dignity in the scientific and legal contexts is difficult to achieve due to societal complexities and traditions associated with various cultures and practices. Many scholars and healthcare professionals support the notion that all individuals have a right to die with dignity—and that all people should be allowed to die comfortably and naturally and, to the extent possible and in compliance with applicable laws, have their final wishes honored and protected.[1] But it is less evident whether and to what extent the concept of dignity should be applied or extended to the remains of deceased individuals and even their next of kin. In recent history, several notable events have called into question the treatment of human remains. A review of these circumstances bears scrutiny on the dilemma, signaling that dignity—and perhaps even a strengthened legal protection of some kind—should extend to the remains of the deceased.[2] In the United States, some laws do recognize and protect the interests or dignity of the deceased. For instance, physicians are required to obtain consent from the deceased’s next of kin before using a cadaver to instruct medical students, though whether to notify the next of kin first has been a topic of ethical and legal debate.[3] On the federal level, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act of 1990 (i) requires federal agencies to return Native American human remains to lineal descendants and culturally affiliated Indian tribes and (ii) provides greater protection for Native American burial sites as well as more careful control over the removal of Native American human remains.[4] Furthermore, a number of statutes exist to penalize the desecration of grave sites, but criminal tampering with human remains—e.g., grave robbing and defilement of interment spaces—remains fairly common. Just this month, a casket with human remains was dumped onto a street in Brooklyn, New York; and several vaults were vandalized in a historic cemetery in New Orleans.[5] According to the International Cemetery, Cremation, and Funeral Association, no cemeteries are immune to vandalism and serious acts of desecration, since many states have virtually no statutory provisions addressing cemetery vandalism or desecration.[6] Most states do, however, have regulations that explicitly prohibit the unlawful disturbance, removal, or sale of human remains—but what happens when the sanctity of human remains is potentially compromised beyond this criminal context? Are the current laws sufficient in protecting the dignity of the deceased? A controversy of this nature surfaced in 1995, when European anatomist Gunther von Hagens premiered BODY WORLDS—The Original Exhibitions of Real Human Bodies. In BODY WORLDS, von Hagens gathered and plastinated real human bodies to make them more malleable and prevent their decay. Some of the bodies’ inner organs were exposed and then positioned in playful, lifelike poses. While supporters of the exhibit recognized its potential educational value—including the moral and ontological standing of plastinates—critics vocalized that the display fell short of respecting the dignity of human remains. For instance, bioethicist Lawrence Burns noted that “some aspects of the exhibit violate[d] human dignity,” and medical ethicist Carol Taylor remarked, “My major objection stems from the belief that there’s an innate dignity to humans that extends to our bodies.”[7] Other criticisms indicated that the bodies were denied a proper burial and did not give consent to be on public display.[8] The exhibit has toured Europe, Africa, Asia, and even America—though it did not enter the United States until 2004, after an ethics advisory committee of the California Science Center addressed the exhibit’s ethical issues and mandated that domestic displays require consent of the bodies.[9] More recently—this month—a cemetery in Sacramento, California, informed a woman that her son’s buried remains must be moved to another location. In 2014, April Robinson’s son, Maurice, passed away, and his cremated remains were buried near a small tree at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleum. Even though it has been a year since the burial, cemetery officials just realized that they assigned Maurice to the wrong location and indicated that the remains must be dug up and relocated, since another family owns the plot. Trying to protect her son’s remains, Robinson believes that Maurice’s burial plot is sacred and should not be touched. While it is uncertain when St. Mary’s plans to move Maurice’s remains, Robinson plans to take legal action to prevent the move from occurring.[10] Though California Health & Safety Code (7052(a)) provides that the unlawful disinterment of human remains is a felony, there are no existing provisions addressing cemeterial mistakes that potentially endanger the sanctity of human remains.[11] Theories of human dignity ought to consider the value and inviolability of a human being after personhood. Without these proper considerations, ethical treatment of the deceased may be jeopardized. Additionally, stories like the Robinsons’, coupled with the trajectory of case law, should help to promote further dialogue and protections concerning the treatment of human remains.

Identification of Ajnala skeletal remains using multiple forensic anthropological methods and techniques: A bioarchaeological report

Simple SummaryDogs are used in many contexts, including the detection of odor sources. A particular application of dogs during searching activities is the location of human remains. In this work, we aimed to gather the common practices of police dog handlers based on a survey made of nine questions, which was sent to police dog handlers around the world (NCountries = 10; NBrigades = 16; NHandlers = 50) and then compared to the information available in the scientific literature. We highlighted a wide diversity of selection and training procedures used by handlers. Studies dedicated to human remains detection dogs are not abundant. However, we found key information that should be applied by handlers during the selection and the training of their human remains detection dogs. First of all, they should include the anatomical traits during the dog selection as behavioral traits alone are not representative of their potential. Finally, even if the training procedures are well performed by handlers, we highlighted a wide diversity of homemade training aids. However, no information was found in the literature regarding the effect of the training aids on the dog performances. For these reasons, handlers should create normalized selection and training procedures while scientists should investigate the behavior of these dogs to provide more information to handlers.Human remains detection dogs (HRDDs) are powerful police assets to locate a corpse. However, the methods used to select and train them are as diverse as the number of countries with such a canine brigade. First, a survey sent to human remains searching brigades (Ncountries = 10; NBrigades = 16; NHandlers = 50; Nquestions = 9), to collect their working habits confirmed the lack of optimized selection and training procedures. Second, a literature review was performed in order to outline the strengths and shortcomings of HRDDs training. A comparison between the scientific knowledge and the common practices used by HRDDs brigade was then conducted focusing on HRDDs selection and training procedures. We highlighted that HRDD handlers select their dogs by focusing on behavioral traits while neglecting anatomical features, which have been shown to be important. Most HRDD handlers reported to use a reward-based training, which is in accordance with training literature for dogs. Training aids should be representative of the odor target to allow a dog to reach optimal performances. The survey highlighted the wide diversity of homemade training aids, and the need to optimize their composition. In the present document, key research topics to improve HRDD works are also provided.