Forensic Anthropology Research Articles

Unlocking Mysteries: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Forensic Science

Abstract: “Unlocking Mysteries: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Forensic Science” delves into the collaborative landscape of forensic investigations, where biology, chemistry, physics, psychology, and law converge to shed light on criminal mysteries. By exploring foundational principles, techniques, and challenges, the chapter emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in deciphering clues left at crime scenes. It outlines seven foundational principles guiding forensic investigations, from the Law of Individuality to the Principle of Analysis. The chapter discusses various forensic analysis techniques, including DNA analysis, fingerprint analysis, toxicology analysis, ballistics analysis, forensic anthropology, forensic chemistry, digital forensics, and trace evidence analysis. DNA analysis, as a cornerstone, aids in individual identification and resolving disputes. Forensic entomology and anthropology provide insights into post-mortem intervals and victim identification. Chemistry techniques like spectroscopy and chromatography aid in identifying substances. Trace evidence analysis offers valuable insights into crime circumstances. The integration of biology into forensic science enhances accuracy and provides closure to victims’ families. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the indispensable role of multidisciplinary collaboration, innovative technologies, and ethical standards in pursuing truth and justice in forensic science. Keywords: forensic science, multidisciplinary collaboration, forensic analysis techniques, DNA analysis, forensic entomology, forensic anthropology, chemistry techniques, trace evidence analysis

Gonial Angle in Forensic Anthropology to Determine Age and Gender: A Population-Specific Analysis.

Background The study highlights the gonial angle as a key craniofacial landmark for age and gender determination in forensic cases. It emphasizes population-specific analysis, enhancing precision by recognizing variations between populations. By clarifying the gonial angle's forensic use, the study offers clear guidelines, improving forensic practices. Moreover, the gonial angle and age and gender correlations are thoroughly examined, offering important information on their forensic relevance. The results highlight how crucial population-specific research is to improving the precision and dependability of forensic age and gender estimation techniques, which advances forensic anthropology and supports forensic investigations around the globe. Aim and objective The purpose of this study is to assess the accuracy of age and gender estimates using gonial angles. The objectives of this research are to evaluate the precision of age and gender estimates utilizing the gonial angle. Materials and methods This present study comprises two groups based on age groups: Group I belongs to 51 to 60 years of age, and Group II belongs to 61 to 70 years of age. Making use of G-Power software (version 3.1.9.4, Düsseldorf, Germany), the sample size was determined. The calculation ensured 95% statistical power at a significance level (alpha error probability) of 0.05. To achieve sufficient statistical power, a total of 1000 samples were included, with a projected required sample size of 92. A total of 1000 samples, consisting of 500 male and 500 female panoramic radiographs,were meticulously selected for the study. The samples picked were within the age range of 51 to 70 years. Orthopantomograms were determined using Planmeca software (Planmeca Romexis®, Version 6.0, USAInc.). Descriptive statistics, including prediction classification analysis of age and gender, were conducted using SPSS Statistics version 16.0 (SPSS Inc., Released 2007, SPSS for Windows, Version 16.0, Chicago, SPSS Inc.). Results According to this study, the mean gonial angle of males aged 51 to 60 years is larger (124.7370degrees) than that of females (119.6371degrees). The female group's mean estimates are more accurate, as seen by the smaller standard error (0.20844) compared to the male group's (0.60998). A statistically significant difference in mean gonial angles between the genders is evident, with males having a larger gonial angle (p-value <0.001). In the age range of 61 to 70 years, the mean gonial angle of females is higher (128.4322degrees) than that of males (124.0529degrees). In this instance, the male group's standard error is smaller (0.14968) than the female group's (0.30028), indicating more accurate mean estimates. Once more, a statistically significant difference is indicated by a p-value of less than 0.001, with females having a larger gonial angle than males. Conclusion Our study revealed that the gonial angle of the mandible can be considered a reliable parameter for gender identification. The study's limitation is its inability to reliably identify gender in the subadult population and in cases of edentulousness. An orthopantomogram is a trustworthy and accurate method for taking the different measurements needed to identify the gender of a particular mandible.

Bibliometric Analysis of Forensic Human Remains Identification Literature from 1991 to 2022.

To describe the current state of research and future research hotspots through a metrological analysis of the literature in the field of forensic anthropological remains identification research. The data retrieved and extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC), the core database of the Web of Science information service platform (hereinafter referred to as "WoS"), was used to analyze the trends and topic changes in research on forensic identification of human remains from 1991 to 2022. Network visualisation of publication trends, countries (regions), institutions, authors and topics related to the identification of remains in forensic anthropology was analysed using python 3.9.2 and Gephi 0.10. A total of 873 papers written in English in the field of forensic anthropological remains identification research were obtained. The journal with the largest number of publications was Forensic Science International (164 articles). The country (region) with the largest number of published papers was China (90 articles). Katholieke Univ Leuven (Netherlands, 21 articles) was the institution with the largest number of publications. Topic analysis revealed that the focus of forensic anthropological remains identification research was sex estimation and age estimation, and the most commonly studied remains were teeth. The volume of publications in the field of forensic anthropological remains identification research has a distinct phasing. However, the scope of both international and domestic collaborations remains limited. Traditionally, human remains identification has primarily relied on key areas such as the pelvis, skull, and teeth. Looking ahead, future research will likely focus on the more accurate and efficient identification of multiple skeletal remains through the use of machine learning and deep learning techniques.

Skeletal Manifestations of Gender-Affirming Medical Interventions for Aiding in the Preliminary Identification of Trans Individuals

Because of systemic discrimination, transgender individuals are at greater risk of being the victims of violence and of homicide. Accurate post-mortem identification from skeletonized remains of transgender individuals must be incorporated into a new standard for forensic anthropological analyses. A critical component of any investigation is the assessment of skeletal remains for evidence of gender-affirming care. A systematic review of the current medical literature was conducted to compile in one document descriptions of changes that could be used by forensic anthropologists to recognize skeletal manifestations resulting from gender-affirming surgeries, including facial feminization surgery (FFS), shoulder width reduction surgery, and limb-lengthening procedures. These skeletal changes, when present bilaterally and without evidence of healed trauma, serve as key indicators of a person’s transgender identity postmortem. Recognizing common patterns in bone structure alterations due to gender-affirming interventions will assist in identifying transgender individuals and providing closure for families. By integrating markers from gender-affirming care practices into forensic investigations, this research contributes to more inclusive and rigorous forensic investigations.

The Relevance of Sr–O–C Isotope Analysis on Burnt Human Skeletal Remains in Archeological and Forensic Contexts: A Review and Future Directions

AbstractRecovery and identification of heavily burnt and fragmented skeletal remains pose significant challenges in fire and arson investigations. The ability to identify individuals is crucial in such cases, prompting extensive research into various techniques to aid in the identification process, including isotopic analysis. Although direct personal identification is not achievable through isotopic analysis of skeletal remains, it serves as a valuable tool for obtaining chemical elements of the biological profile. Strontium (Sr), oxygen (O), and carbon (C) isotope analyses have been widely used in archeological contexts but are relatively new approaches in the medicolegal domain. Oxygen isotope analysis, for instance, offers insights into the burning temperature, while strontium isotope analysis provides valuable information for tracing the individual's movement across geologically distinct landscapes. Consequently, the investigation of the impact of heat on the biogenic isotope composition of human bones in forensic contexts has gained significant attention. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the key archeological and forensic questions addressed by Sr–O–C isotope analysis of burnt skeletal remains. By examining the current state of the art and prospects, we aim to contribute to a broader understanding and potential advancements in the field of forensic isotope research.This article is categorized under: Forensic Biology &gt; Interpretation of Biological Evidence Forensic Anthropology &gt; Trauma Analysis

Sex estimation from coxal bones using deep learning in a population balanced by sex and age.

In the field of forensic anthropology, researchers aim to identify anonymous human remains and determine the cause and circumstances of death from skeletonized human remains. Sex determination is a fundamental step of this procedure because it influences the estimation of other traits, such as age and stature. Pelvic bones are especially dimorphic, and are thus the most useful bones for sex identification. Sex estimation methods are usually based on morphologic traits, measurements, or landmarks on the bones. However, these methods are time-consuming and can be subject to inter- or intra-observer bias. Sex determination can be done using dry bones or CT scans. Recently, artificial neural networks (ANN) have attracted attention in forensic anthropology. Here we tested a fully automated and data-driven machine learning method for sex estimation using CT-scan reconstructions of coxal bones. We studied 580 CT scans of living individuals. Sex was predicted by two networks trained on an independent sample: a disentangled variational auto-encoder (DVAE) alone, and the same DVAE associated with another classifier (Crecon). The DVAE alone exhibited an accuracy of 97.9%, and the DVAE + Crecon showed an accuracy of 99.8%. Sensibility and precision were also high for both sexes. These results are better than those reported from previous studies. These data-driven algorithms are easy to implement, since the pre-processing step is also entirely automatic. Fully automated methods save time, as it only takes a few minutes to pre-process the images and predict sex, and does not require strong experience in forensic anthropology.

The Fascinating World of Forensic Sciences: Multidisciplinary Approaches in Human Remains and the Role of Forensic Pathology in Calabrian Experience.

Forensic sciences play a vital role in the criminal justice system by providing insights into the identity of victims and suspects, causes of death, and other crucial pieces of evidence. In this research paper, we will explore the utility of forensic sciences, its techniques and applications, and the critical role of the forensic pathologist in analyzing human remains. For this purpose, we have analyzed a series of human remains and cadavers found in a state of decomposition, illustrating the medico-legal investigations carried out. Specifically, 50 cases from Calabrian experience are reported from 2003 to 2023 in different contexts of both judicial and archaeological interest and discovered by chance. In any case, anthropological, odontological, genetic, entomological, and forensic radiological investigations were carried out with the supervision of the forensic pathologist in all cases. The varied composition of the sample made it possible to understand the methods and the various specialists involved in such diversified cases. Furthermore, a review of the scientific literature on the topic of human remains was carried out. In particular, by delving into these topics, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of forensic anthropology and forensic sciences and their significance in the criminal justice system.

An Extensive Analysis of Contemporary Studies Forensics Sciences in India

: Forensic science in India has evolved over 100 years, with the first official laboratory being the Calcutta Forensic Science Laboratory in Kolkata founded in 1952. Modernization has led to the establishment of numerous central, state, and regional forensic laboratories and advancements in technology such as DNA profiling, pathology, forensic toxicology, and forensic anthropology. As the need for forensic education in India increases, educational institutions and universities have started offering forensic science as a subject. India has collaborated with international forensic organizations to stay updated on global developments. Contemporary studies in forensic sciences are crucial for adapting to technological advancements, addressing emerging crimes, improving DNA analysis, promoting interdisciplinary approaches, and maintaining quality assurance and standards. Forensic science plays a significant role in the humanitarian efforts, including the identification of missing people and victims of mass disasters. Advanced imaging techniques are crucial in forensic investigations. Indian forensic science education is divided into undergraduate and postgraduate programs, offering bachelor's degrees and specialized courses in areas like forensic toxicology, DNA analysis, and digital forensics.

Variations of the human hyoid bone and its clinical implications

The aim was to determine the variations in shape of the human hyoid bone in terms of symmetry, isometry and anisomorphism. These parameters are useful for surgeons and/or forensic anthropologists. Sixty-two human hyoid bones (31 male and 31 female) belonging to the Instituto Anatómico Forense (I.A.F.) of Madrid (Spain) were dissected. The data collected were analysed using the chi-square test. The specimens were classified into five different patterns: U-shaped (16.7%), open (47.6%), triangular (9.5%), horseshoe-shaped (7.1%) and trapezoidal (19%). Types were distinguished according to the different shapes of the two halves (isomorphic 67.7% and anisomorphic 32.3%), the length of the greater horn (isometric 37% and anisometric 63%), and the transverse distances between the horns (symmetry 24.2% and asymmetry 75.8%). A thorough understanding of these anatomical variations could be useful for clinicians and forensics in interpreting the morphology of the hyoid bone.

Computed Tomography- Based Maxillary Sinus Morphometry: A Tool for Gender Differentiation in Libyan Population

Introduction: In forensic contexts, gender identification is a multifaceted process that involves examining various anatomical characteristics to determine an individual's gender. Recent advancements in medical imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scans have provided researchers and healthcare professionals with more detailed insights into anatomical differences between genders such as the dimensions of paranasal sinuses. Aim: This study aimed to compare the maxillary sinus (MS) dimensions between genders in a Libyan sample using CT scans. Materials and methods: One hundred consecutive Libyan patients, comprising 50 women and 50 men, were included in the study. The Width, height, and length were determined based on CT images. Additionally, the perimeter, area, and volume of the MS were calculated mathematically. The collected data analyzed to compare the MS parameters between genders in both sides. Statistical significance was accepted at p&lt;0.05. Results: Statistically we found that the length, width and length of the MS were significantly different between male &amp; female in both sides, while there was no significant difference in case of sinus area and volume. The accuracy level for correctly classifying gender based on width of right MS was 91.8%, demonstrating strong predictive power of this parameter. The result showed also that 94 % of males and 90% of females were sexed correctly with an overall accuracy of 92%. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of understanding sinus morphology in forensic anthropology for gender determination.

Reassociation of Skeletal Remains Using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy.

A major challenge in forensic anthropology and bioarcheology is the development of fast and effective methods for sorting commingled remains. This study assesses how portable laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) can be used to group skeletal remains based on their elemental profiles. LIBS spectra were acquired from the remains of 45 modern skeletons, with a total data set of 8388 profiles from 1284 bones. Spectral feature selection was conducted to reduce the spectral profiles to the peaks exhibiting the highest variation among individuals. Emission lines corresponding to 9 elements (Ca, P, C, K, Mg, Na, Al, Ba, and Sr) were found important for classification. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) was concurrently used to classify each spectral profile. From the 45 individuals, each LIBS spectrum was successfully sorted to its corresponding skeleton with an average accuracy of 87%. These findings indicate that variation exists among the LIBS profiles of individuals' skeletal remains, highlighting the potential for portable LIBS technology to aid in the sorting of commingled remains.

Shape analysis of the nasal complex among South African groups from CBCT scans

Three-dimensional (3D) anatomical extraction techniques could help the forensic anthropologist in a precise and inclusive assessment of biological phenotypes for the development of facial reconstruction methods. In this research, the nose morphology and the underlying hard tissue of two South African populations were studied. To this end, a 3D computer-assisted approach based on an automated landmarking workflow was used to generate relevant 3D anatomical components, and shape discrepancies were investigated using a data set of 200 cone-beam computer tomography (CBCT) scans. The anatomical landmarks were placed on the external nose and the mid-facial skeleton (the nasal bones, the anterior nasal aperture, the zygoma, and the maxilla). Shape differences related to population affinity, sex, age, and size were statistically evaluated and visualised using geometric morphometric methods. Population affinity, sexual dimorphism, age, and size affect the nasal complex morphology. Shape variation in the mid-facial region was significantly influenced by population affinity, emphasising that shape variability was specific to the two population groups, along with the expression of sexual dimorphism and the effect of ageing. In addition, nasal complex shape and correlations vary greatly between white and black South Africans, highlighting a need for reliable population-specific 3D statistical nose prediction algorithms.

Cranial trauma in handgun executions: Circumferential delamination defect and its relationship with contact/close-range shooting.

Skeletal evidence usually constitutes the only source of information to interpret lesion patterns that help to clarify the circumstances surrounding death. The examination and interpretation of bone trauma are essential to the application and utility of anthropology as a forensic science. When discussing the effect of gunshot wounds in bone, it becomes imperative to differentiate between short and long-distance injuries based on clear, distinct, and observable signs. To contribute to the debate, our focus is directed toward the external analysis of the so-called circumferential delamination defect (CDD) as an observable proxy for close-range shooting (≤30 cm) and contact gunshot wounds in the skull. In the context of known extrajudicial killings, in which the perpetrators used short 9 × 19 FMJ ammunition in a close-range shooting, instances of CDD have been documented. Empirical evidence reinforcing the causal relationship between CDD and close-range shootings is presented. Elements' characteristics of firearm residues were also found in remains buried for up to 30 years. Primarily, this work shows that the concentrations of gunshot residues (Pb, Ba, and Sb) resemble those observed in fresh corpses with the same gunshot wound (GSW). Moreover, the correlation observed between CDD and gunshot residues, where the likelihood of CDD increases the closer to the head and the more perpendicular the shot angle is, reinforces CDD as a pivotal discriminatory factor in the skeletal evidence of short-range or contact shot. This research contributes to the field of forensic anthropology by providing fundamental insights into the etiology of CDD and its practical application.

Applications of forensic anthropology methodology: accuracy of virtual face reproductions performed on the Tenchini collection.

Facial reproduction validation uses the methodology typical of forensic anthropology to confirm the accuracy of three-dimensional reproductions of faces. Achieving high accuracy in virtual facial reproductions is still under study. In the present paper, the Tenchini collection, which contains wax reproductions of prisoners' faces and their skulls, was used. By creating facial reproductions on skulls from this collection, the result was compared with the real face of the person to whom the skull belongs. The three-dimensional volume of each examined skull of Tenchini collection was acquired via CT scan and photogrammetry. Subsequently, the virtual reproduction of each skull was processed using three-dimensional graphics software (ZBrush, Pixologic®). The morphological comparison parameters used in the field of personal identification by forensic anthropology were used. The blind procedure required the operator to see the mask subsequent to the facial reproduction phase, so that the facial reproduction cannot exploit the information that knowledge of the mask would have produced. The parameters used in the study of facial reproductions have shown discrepancies between the characteristics of the masks and the facial reproductions, partly expected because due to the lack of soft tissue on the skull. However, a high degree of accuracy in the facial reproductions performed due to the applied methodology was documented. The present study allowed us to observe how these parameters can be useful to study the accuracy of facial reproduction and identify what difficulties are encountered in producing a result close to the real appearance.

Machetes: Sharpening materials and methods – Producing different striation patterns on bone

As forensic anthropologists play a larger role in post-mortem examinations, the examination and interpretation of skeletal trauma resulting from sharp, blunt, projectile, and thermal injuries have become of critical importance and may assist in medicolegal death investigations. Although there is a plethora of research on sharp force trauma on bone, at present, there is little research regarding the striations produced by large bladed weapons on bone, whether those striations are weapon-specific, or whether they are the result of sharpening materials and methods. To test whether striations are weapon type specific, this study aimed to examine if different sharpening materials and methods produced different striations on the kerf walls of cut marks on bone produced by machetes. Or, if they do produce the previously identified ‘rolling hill’ striation pattern. Four factory machetes sharpened by the same manufacturer were re-sharpened using a wet stone, a bastard file, and a coarse and medium-grained machine grinder. The bones and casts were subjected to both macro and micro analyses, and the results identified clear differences in the shape of striation ridges and troughs, indicating that striation patterns are not weapon type-specific. The study's findings have opened up a new area of research into weapon types and the analysis of associated striation patterns and may aid in the identification of weapon types and the materials used for maintenance or sharpening, potentially offering additional evidentiary evidence.

Sex Estimation from Computed Tomography of Os Coxae—Validation of the Diagnose Sexuelle Probabiliste (DSP) Software in the Romanian Population

This study aimed to evaluate the DSP method’s applicability to Romania’s contemporary population and to assess the accuracy and reliability of variables derived from CT images. A total of 80 pelvic CT scans were analyzed. Participants ranged from 22 to 93 years, with a mean age of 59.51 ± 22.7 years. All variables measured from the CT scans were analyzed using DSP software. The study found that sex estimation was possible in 71.25% of cases overall, with varying rates between males (57.50%) and females (85%). Despite encountering undetermined specimens comprising 42.5% males and 15% females, only one misclassification occurred. Regarding accuracy, the overall rate remained notably high at 98.24%. All female specimens that could be estimated were correctly classified (100% accuracy), while for males, the accuracy rate was 95.65%. Undetermined cases were noted to potentially impact the accuracy of sex classification, underscoring the critical role of precision in forensic contexts. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of accuracy in forensic sex estimation. It emphasizes the confidence with which DSP software can be utilized, if not the only method, at least as a preliminary or adjuvantly accurate technique for sex estimation in forensic anthropology.

Advancements and Challenges Forensic Odontology and Anthropology: Applications for Identification in Saudi Arabia

The evolution of forensic science has witnessed significant progress in dental identification techniques, originating from prehistoric eras but gaining prominence in the late 19th century. During the 1960s, forensic odontology experienced renewed interest, extending its relevance beyond dentistry to law enforcement agencies. This resurgence coincided with the emergence of forensic anthropology, vital in employing skeletal analysis to reconstruct the biological profiles of unidentified individuals. Collaborative efforts of forensic dentistry and anthropology have notably enhanced the accuracy and scope of forensic investigations, especially in cases involving incomplete or decomposed remains. In the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, despite cultural challenges, the significance of multidisciplinary collaboration to assist the law enforcement agencies cannot be overstated. As forensic science advances, the integration of dental and skeletal analyses remains crucial for effective case resolution. Forensic odontology and anthropology jointly contribute to identifying individuals in mass disasters and criminal cases through dental record and skeletal remains analysis. Both disciplines boast rich historical backgrounds, dating back to ancient civilizations. Limited practices and training in Saudi Arabia pose obstacles for forensic investigations, although there is evident public acceptance regarding the importance of maintaining dental records and recognizing skeletal analysis significance. Therefore, establishing a national registry for dental and skeletal data, coupled with comprehensive training programs, is recommended for dentistry and anthropology students at all academic levels.

Morphometric analysis of the mastoid process using cone beam computed tomography

The sexual dimorphism of the mastoid process, as demonstrated by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), is not well examined in forensic anthropology or clinical diagnostics. The mastoid region can be precisely imaged in three dimensions using CBCT, which reveals minute anatomical variations between males and females. These characteristics can help forensic professionals identify the sex of unidentified human remains, helping to solve crimes and aid in the search for missing persons. Moreover, recognising sexual dimorphism in the mastoid process in clinical settings can help with precise patient identification and individualised medical treatments, highlighting the important function of CBCT in both the forensic and medical areas.

Sexual dimorphism of the twelfth thoracic vertebra for sex determination in the Central Thai population

Analyzing skeletal remains is crucial for identifying individuals, and forensic anthropologists use this analysis to determine biological characteristics, particularly sex, aiding criminal investigations. Among thoracic vertebrae, the twelfth thoracic vertebra (T12) is highly sexually dimorphic in various populations. This study aims to establish a discriminant function equation (DFE) for sex determination based on T12 in the Central Thai population. A total of 15 parameters of T12 were examined in 69 bone samples (43 males and 26 females). Among the 15 parameters, 14 were significantly different between males and females. The discriminant function equation (DFE) was generated as DFE = −19.578 + 0.376(i) BDsm + 0.254(l) PW + 0.081TDm, with a cutoff value of −0.296 for males and females, showing 92.8 % accuracy. The evaluation of the DFE using 10 blind samples showed 90 % accuracy. These findings may offer an additional method for sex determination through T12, complementing the examination of other skeletal elements.

Uncovering Forensic Evidence: A Path to Age Estimation through DNA Methylation.

Age estimation is a critical aspect of reconstructing a biological profile in forensic sciences. Diverse biochemical processes have been studied in their correlation with age, and the results have driven DNA methylation to the forefront as a promising biomarker. DNA methylation, an epigenetic modification, has been extensively studied in recent years for developing age estimation models in criminalistics and forensic anthropology. Epigenetic clocks, which analyze DNA sites undergoing hypermethylation or hypomethylation as individuals age, have paved the way for improved prediction models. A wide range of biomarkers and methods for DNA methylation analysis have been proposed, achieving different accuracies across samples and cell types. This review extensively explores literature from the past 5 years, showing scientific efforts toward the ultimate goal: applying age prediction models to assist in human identification.