Journal of Bioanthropology

Comparative Analysis of Dermatoglyphic Traits in Albanian and Roma Populations in Kosovo

Gazmend Temaj — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

We examined dermatoglyphics of children in three Albanian and one Roma population sample (collected from 641 individuals from the Albanian populations and 226 individuals from the Roma population of both sexes). We compared Albanian and Roma populations based on four finger (whorl, radial and ulnar loop, and arch) and thirteen palmar traits (pattern frequencies in the Thenar/I interdigital area, II, III, and IV interdigital area, Hypothenar and axial »t« triradius position). The differences between the populations were more evident for palmar traits. In our study the Albanian and the Roma populations showed the best separation when finger and palmar traits are separately analyzed. As expected, the Albanian and the Roma populations separated in statistical analyses of most traits; the main reason for this is the different origins of two ethnic groups. The observed difference also indicates a low level of admixture between the Albanians and the Roma despite them living beside one another for several centuries.

Importance of quality control in sample preparation workflow of forensic degraded samples for massively parallel sequencing (MPS)

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Molecular genetic analyses occupy a significant part of laboratory tests in forensic practice. Pre-prepared commercial kits used for DNA extraction are an excellent choice for samples provided by living people, but in forensic practice, most of the samples that undergo molecular processing are often degraded and may pose a challenge in the laboratory. A special challenge is to provide quality genetic material from post-mortem samples that would be suitable for further analysis with massively parallel sequencing. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the applicability of two silica-based DNA extraction methods for post-mortem blood samples with varying storage time and degrees of degradation, and also, to establish proper quality control in sample preparation workflow for Massively Parallel Sequencing using Ion Torrent GeneStudio™ S5 platform. The study was performed on 48 blood samples with different storage time. Silica-based DNA extraction protocols was applied and quantification was made using Qubit 3.0 fluorimeter, followed by Real-Time PCR quantification. The results indicate high variability between the obtained DNA quantities from post-mortem blood samples with different storage time. Correlation was determined between storage time and sample quantity and quality. The Qiagen Mini Kit & Micro Kit are applicable for DNA extraction from blood samples with various storage periods and degradation levels, which can be used for further NGS analyses after careful quality control and optimization of library preparation conditions.

Presence of Uto-Aztecan Premolar Trait (Disto-Sagittal Ridge) in a Zoque-Olmec sample from Mesoamerica

Carlos David Rodriguez Flórez — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

The presence of UAP in a Zoque-Olmec sample from the Early Classic Period (1.800 – 1.300 BP) is reported. This has been compared with the frequency of the same trait in other groups from the American continent.

Inheritance of the Epidermolysis Bullosa Subtypes

Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a group of inherited disorders that cause skin to blister and tear easily. The disease is caused by mutations in structural proteins that are key for maintaining the integrity of the skin’s basement membrane zone or dermoepidermal junction.

EB can be inherited in two ways: autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive. The most common form of EB, epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), as well as some forms of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) are inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means they are passed down from an affected parent to half of his or her children. Other forms of EB, such as junctional epidermolysis bullosa (JEB) and some forms of DEB, are inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. This means that two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent, are required to develop the condition.

Life and death in the Roman period Pula – A bioanthropological analysis of human skeletal remains from the Ozad Arene site

Veronika Bencerić, Teodora Godinović Mikačić, Mario Carić — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Human skeletal and dental remains are the primary focus of bioarchaeological research, as different diseases and pathological conditions can leave marks on the bones and teeth. Study of these remains provides insights into the lifestyle, health and quality of life of past populations. In this paper, the human skeletal remains from the Ozad Arene archaeological site in Pula (Istria, Croatia), originating from 25 graves and four bone assemblages dated between the 1^st and the 4^th centuries CE, were analysed. The aim of the paper is to reconstruct demographic and pathological characteristics of the Roman period population from Pula to gain insight into the living conditions and the quality of life in this community, and to determine whether the site differs from other archaeological sites from the same period in terms of general health and living conditions. The human skeletal sample in question comprises skeletal remains of a minimum 48 individuals; the high subadult mortality rate and high prevalence of dental enamel hypoplasia and the presence of cribra orbitalia, porotic hyperostosis, and periostitis indicate overall poor living conditions and widespread metabolic stress during childhood in Pula. Vertebral osteoarthritis and Schmorl′s nodes in the spines of younger individuals suggest continuous hard labour and strenuous physical activity. Based on the available data, it seems that living conditions in the Roman period Pula did not differ significantly from other Roman sites on the eastern Adriatic coast.

Talocalcaneal coalition in the female adult skeleton from the archaeological site of Perlek-Dioksid, Serbia (10th - 12th centuries AD)

Veda Mikašinović, Tamara Šarkić, Ksenija Đukić — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In this case report, we will present a case of rare pathological condition, a talocalcaneal coalition, which was recorded in a female adult individual from the archaeological site of Perlek-Dioksid, dated in the period between 10th and 12th centuries AD. During the bioanthropological and paleopathological analyses it was noted the presence of a bilateral bony fusion of the calcaneus and talus of a female adult individual, suggesting an occurrence of talocalcaneal coalition. This was further confirmed by an X-ray examination. Talocalcaneal coalition (TC) occurs when adjacent tarsal bones, the calcaneus and talus, are partially or completely fused. A talocalcaneal coalition becomes symptomatic when, at the age of 12 to 15 years, a pre-existing coalition becomes ossified. In this case, TC was accompanied by degenerative changes of the spine and bilateral femoral neck anteversion. This condition did not require any form of health-related care for this person, although it probably caused occasional pain of varying intensity. This pathological condition is rarely described in bioarchaeological literature and it is, therefore, important to report every recorded case in order to improve our corpus of knowledge regarding such conditions.

Letter from new Editor–in-Chief

Mario Novak — Wed, 28 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

The Editorial Board and new Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Bioanthropology proudly present the latest volume, featuring groundbreaking research in bioanthropology globally. Included are diverse studies on dermatoglyphic traits, molecular genetics in forensics, and analyses of ancient human skeletal remains. Embracing a multidisciplinary approach, this volume marks a shift towards addressing varied bioanthropological topics. Notably, the submission process introduces the Authorship Statement, mandating co-authors' agreement on roles and responsibilities, and a Data Availability Statement for transparency in data sharing. The Editorial Board anticipates an engaging future, inviting contributions and promising exciting research discussions in the dynamic field of bioanthropology throughout 2024.