NCJ Number
240823
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 57 Issue: 2 Dated: March 2012 Pages: 287-295
Date Published
March 2012
Length
9 pages
Annotation
This research discusses the histological examination of bone fragments.
Abstract
Distinguishing between human and nonhuman bone is important in forensic anthropology and archeology when remains are fragmentary and DNA cannot be obtained. Histological examination of bone is affordable and practical in such situations. This study suggests using osteon circularity to distinguish human bone fragments and hypothesizes that osteons will more closely resemble a perfect circle in nonhumans than in humans. Standard histological methods were used, and circularity was determined using an image analysis program, where circularity was controlled for by Haversian canal measurements. Homogeneity was first tested for multiple variables within human and nonhuman samples. No significant differences were found between human sexes (p = 0.657) or among nonhuman species (p = 0.553). Significant differences were found among intraskeletal elements of both humans (p = 0.016) and nonhumans (p = 0.013) and between pooled samples of humans and nonhumans (p less than 0.001). Results of this study indicate that osteon circularity can be used to distinguish between fragmented human and nonhuman long bone. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.