Thesis
Understanding cortical bone variation in macropodids to strengthen biological profiles in forensic anthropology cases
Masters by Coursework, Murdoch University
2025
Abstract
Forensic anthropology seeks to provide information about an unknown individual to provide an identification. This is generally done by examining the external features of the skeleton; however, further information can be found through insight into the intraspecific variation of the internal structure of bone. Cortical and trabecular bone remodel throughout life to reflect the lifestyle of the individual, including their body mass, sex or environmental factors. Methods such as micro-computed tomography can be utilised to measure the bony parameters that indicate such factors. This literature review aims to outline the knowledge already existing around the cortical and trabecular bones of mammals to identify how it might be applied to unknown individuals in a forensic context.
The literature from this review was sourced from Google Scholar, and eligibility criteria were applied to extract the most relevant publications. It was found that mammals were the most represented class, pinpointing the focus of this review. Interspecific variation was represented by species differences, ecological factors, body mass, diet and nutrition, behavioural factors and genetic factors. Intraspecific variation was represented by population differences, age, sex differences, environmental influences, health and disease, and activity level. It was found that both interspecific and intraspecific variation can be seen in the cortical and trabecular bone of mammals. The publications sourced in the context of forensics largely focused on the insect or scavenging activity of skeletal remains and not the examination of the internal bone structure.
Details
- Title
- Understanding cortical bone variation in macropodids to strengthen biological profiles in forensic anthropology cases
- Authors/Creators
- Alisha Adriano
- Contributors
- Natalie Warburton (Supervisor) - Murdoch University, Centre for Terrestrial Ecosystem Science and Sustainability
- Awarding Institution
- Murdoch University; Masters by Coursework
- Identifiers
- 991005834966407891
- Murdoch Affiliation
- School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences
- Resource Type
- Thesis
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