Biological Affinity in Forensic Identification of Human Skeletal Remains: Beyond Black and White

Biological Affinity in Forensic Identification of Human Skeletal Remains: Beyond Black and White provides a comprehensive range of tools for identifying the probable socio-cultural race category of unknown human remains. It covers ancestry estimation from skull traits, metric analyses, dental non-metric variation, Hispanic populations, age progression, facial reconstructions, DNA extraction, and mtDNA methods. The use of traditional and new techniques combined yields better results for accurate determinations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 334 pages
Publication date: 31 March 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Forensic scientists and anthropologists often face challenges when identifying unknown remains, particularly when limited remains are available for testing. Various techniques have been developed to assess ancestry, ranging from traditional methods to modern microbiological and computer-assisted approaches. Biological Affinity in Forensic Identification of Human Skeletal Remains: Beyond Black and White offers a comprehensive exploration of tools and methods used to determine the probable socio-cultural race category of unknown human remains.

The book begins by delving into the historical foundations of biological affinity and the urgent need for increased research in this field. Contributors from diverse backgrounds cover a wide range of topics, including:

Ancestry estimation from skull morphology using morphoscopic and morphometric traits and variables.

Innovative methods derived from metric analyses of the postcrania, as well as new approaches to dental non-metric variation.

The biological diversity of Hispanic populations and the utilization of discriminant function analysis and 3D-ID software for ancestry determination.

Methods of age progression and facial reconstructions to create 2D and 3D facial composites for missing persons.

The preparation of skeletal remains for DNA extraction and sampling, as well as mtDNA methods available for identifying haplogroups (ancestral populations).

It is important to note that no single method or technique is sufficient for accurate ancestry assessment. A combination of traditional and modern techniques yields better results. This book serves as a valuable resource for forensic scientists, anthropologists, and researchers interested in advancing the field of biological affinity in forensic identification.

Weight: 621g
Dimension: 254 x 178 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367778460