Anthropological Studies
[Abbr: Acd. Jr. AJASt]Reconstructive Post- Mortem Dental Profiling: A Comprehensive Review (Part I- Ethnicity And Sex Determination)
by Dr. S. Praveen
Forensic odontologist play an important role in identification of the victims of crime and disaster with the help of dental records which aids in investigation. Forensic dental identification is of two types. Firstly comparative dental identification which is carried out if both ante- mortem and post- mortem dental records are available. Secondly if ante mortem records are not available for identification, a post-mortem dental profiling is carried out by the forensic odontologist by analysing the parameters like ethnicity, age, sex, socioeconomic status etc to restrict the hunt for ante- mortem dental records. This process is called post- mortem dental profiling. Having done this, still if not able to establish the identity of the victim, a skeletal analysis team can be formed by forensic anthropologist, forensic odontologist and reconstructive practitioner for further search. Therefore on the basis of skull of the deceased and with the help of forensic odontologist the reconstructive practitioner can give lifetime resemblance of the skull. This process of recovering, regenerating and re- establishing of needed information for the reconstruction of life time resemblance of skeletal remains by post mortem dental profiling is called reconstructive post mortem dental profiling. This reconstructive post mortem dental profiling gives unique dental features of each person which has more practical values for the identification of the unknown persons. This helps the forensic odontologist to review their jobs with wider prospective and to document the dental profiles in the absence of ante- mortem records. Keywords: Forensic Odontologist, Ante- Mortem, Post Mortem, Dental Profiling, Reconstruction, Ethnicity, Sex Determination
The Silent Witnesses: How Forensic Anthropology Speaks for the Deceased
by Mullai Malar K, Kavitha R, Krushna Sharad Sonawane
Forensic anthropology stands as a testament to the intricate dance between science and morality, where the study of skeletal remains reveals stories of lives lived and tragedies endured. This article delves into the multifaceted realm of forensic anthropology, exploring its various dimensions from osteology to ethical considerations. Through the lens of history, age determination, bone trauma analysis, gender determination, and cutting-edge technologies like 3D scanning imaging, we embark on a journey to understand how forensic anthropologists unravel the mysteries of human remains, providing closure to families and justice to the deceased. Additionally, we delve into the pivotal role of forensic anthropology in mass disaster identification, where scientific expertise meets humanitarian urgency, shaping policies and procedures for effective response and recovery. Amidst these scientific endeavors, ethical considerations emerge as guiding stars, reminding us of our duty to uphold integrity, respect cultural sensitivities, and prioritize truth above all else. Keywords: Forensic Anthropology, Osteology, Bone Trauma Analysis, Gender Determination, Age Determination
Analysis of Gait Pattern and it’s Relationship to Human Personality
by Sreeram KY
Gait pattern impressions are considered as evidence in the field of forensic science in terms of stature examination [based on comparison between known and unknown samples], in determining the point of entry and exit, the number of people involved in a particular crime, the type of footwear worn by the perpetrator, etc. The gait pattern is defined as a person's pattern of walking, which involves coordination of muscles and balance and results in the forward propelling of the body in a rhythm called stride. The analysis of gait pattern involves proper recording of the pattern [photographs] and its measurement, along with interpretation of the psychological test scales that were administered to the same person whose gait pattern has been recorded. The objective of this research work was to study the relevance of personality and its effect in terms of the gait pattern of a person. Keywords: Gait pattern analysis, Criminal profiling, Personality, DASS-21, Eysenck’s Personality Inventory (EPI), Human gait pattern
Disaster Victim Identification
by Siddharth Singh
This study delves into the intricate realm of Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), aiming to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and methodologies inherent in the aftermath of mass disasters. Employing advanced forensic techniques such as DNA profiling, dental records examination, and cutting-edge technologies, the research navigates the complex landscape of victim identification with a focus on precision and efficiency. Ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities form a critical backdrop to the study, emphasizing the humane treatment of human remains and the respect for diverse cultural norms. The findings not only underscore the pivotal role of technological advancements but also shed light on the psychological impact on forensic experts, resource constraints, and jurisdictional complexities that characterize DVI operations.Through a meticulous exploration of these dynamics, the study contributes valuable insights to the fields of forensic science, humanitarian efforts, and disaster management. The observed challenges provide a foundation for refining existing protocols, fostering international collaboration, and implementing support systems to address the well- being of professionals engaged in this demanding field.As the study unveils the complexities of disaster victim identification, its findings serve as a guiding compass for future research endeavors and operational enhancements. The continuous evolution of DVI methodologies, informed by the lessons learned from this study, holds the key to expediting and refining identification processes, ultimately providing solace to the grieving families of the deceased.In essence, this abstract encapsulates a comprehensive exploration of Disaster Victim Identification, emphasizing its interdisciplinary nature and the ongoing collaboration required to navigate the profound impact of mass disasters on human lives. Keywords: Disaster Victim Identification (DVI), Forensic Science, Mass Disasters, Victim Identification
Unveiling Mysteries: The Essential Role of Forensic Anthropologists in Crime Scene Investigations (Review)
by Ridhi Khandelwal
By the end of the 20th century, forensic anthropology was still largely the same as it had been for the preceding 50 years, despite having improved analytical techniques, a name, and definitions, which prompted researchers to explore various approaches and techniques to aid forensics in uncovering the evidence through inspection and evaluation. In the event that various pieces of evidence, including bones, skulls, broken bones, burned bodies, and their parts, are discovered at the crime scene based on the manner of the crime, forensic anthropologists play a critical role in revealing information from these pieces and assisting the investigator in solving the case with their expertise and new findings. Utilizing the regression hypothesis in conjunction with additional methodologies and methods, findings such as sex, stature, facial reconstruction, and post mortem interval are obtained. They offer their data in qualitative as well quantitatively. Keywords: Facial Reconstruction, Analytical technique, Post Mortem Interval
Formulae Development to Determine Living Body Weight from Hand Anthropometry among Tagalog People in the Philippines
by Prof T. Nataraja Moorthy, Lao Dinglasa Ivan Nikkimor
Physical evidence, called objective material evidence, can bridge the crime and criminals. Stature, gender, and body weight determination play a role in establishing the biological profile of the unknown in forensic investigation. Ethnicity or population should be considered when conducting anthropological research. This study is an international collaborative research, with sample collection in the Philippines and data analysis in Malaysia. The present study examines the relationship between body weight and hand anthropometry among Tagalog people in the Philippines. Volunteers with hand-related disorders and deformities were excluded from the study. The study recruited 180 male and 180 female Tagalogs and recorded the body weight and five hand length measurements from each hand. The collected data were analyzed statistically, and formulae were developed for body weight determination from hand anthropometry in the study population. Keywords: Forensic Science, Body weight, Hand anthropometry, Tagalog, Philippines.