bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of body hair density and distribution in normal women
Authors: Lunde Ottar
Published: February 2006

The distribution and density of terminal hair growth have been studied in 19 different body regions in 100 normal women of fertile age and 25 normal postmenopausal women. In accordance with earlier investigations an age‐dependent variation in hair growth pattern was observed. None of the women in either group had terminal hair growth on the cheek, and on the breast region hair was limited to a small circumareolar area. Whereas facial terminal hair growth appeared to be less common than that reported in earlier studies of women from other countries, the frequency of terminal hair in other regions was found to be significantly higher in the Norwegian women. No difference in hair growth pattern between blondes and brunettes could be detected.
Assortative marriage for physical characteristics in newlyweds
Authors: Pennock‐Román Maria
Published: February 2006

The objective of this study was to estimate the degree of spouse resemblance in the first 6 months of marriage and to compare these estimates with those of previous studies on long‐standing marriages. The participants, 215 couples, were selected from the marriage licenses issued in two counties within the San Francisco Bay Area. They attended one of several group sessions in which questionnaires were filled out and forearm length measurements were taken. Only the results for the couples of European ancestry (N = 164) are presented here since the other subsamples were too small to analyze separately. The husband‐wife correlations for body size were found to be essentially equal to those in long‐standing marriages. Thus, it appears that physical resemblance in couples is the result of initial assortment rather than convergence arising from long cohabitation. A significant residual husband‐wife correlation for weight was found after statistically partialing out height. It may be that assortative marriage for food habits and attractiveness produces spouse resemblance in weight, independently of height. Alternatively, convergence in eating habits may occur during courtship and the early months of marriage which may increase the resemblance in weight. There was very little homogamy for eye color independently of race, and no evidence of assortative marriage for handedness.
Quantitative differences in dental microwear between primate species with different diets and a comment on the presumed diet of Sivapithecus
Authors: Teaford Mark F. , Walker Alan
Published: February 2006

Studies of dental microwear have been used to relate tooth form to function in a variety of recent and extinct mammals. Probably the most important aspect of microwear analysis is the possibility of using it to deduce the diet of extinct animals. Such deductions must be based on comparative studies of modern species with known diets, but to date, only qualitative studies have been attempted and all have been based on small samples. Here we report quantitative differences in dental microwear between primate species that are known to have different diets.

Occlusal facets with different functions have previously been shown to exhibit different microwear patterns. However, the differences between facets of one species are shown to be far less than those between homologous facets of different species. Study of seven species of extant primates shows that enamel microwear can be used to distinguish between those with a mainly frugivorous diet and those with a mainly folivorous one. Microwear can also distinguish hard‐object feeders from soft‐fruit eaters. The microwear of Miocene Sivapithecus indicus cannot be distinguished statistically from that of the chimpanzee, but it is different from that of the other species. On this evidence S. indicus was not a hard‐object feeder and the adaptive significance of its thick molar enamel is at present unknown.
Tail raising by baboon mothers toward immigrant males
Authors: Busse Curt D.
Published: February 2006

Behavioral responses of adult females to recently immigrated adult males were examined in two groups of chacma baboons in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve, Botswana. Mothers carrying infants respond negatively by raising their tails, avoiding, and screaming when in proximity to immigrant males. These responses are not given by mothers when their infants are away from them or by females who do not have infants. Also, the negative responses by mothers carrying infants are given only to immigrant males and not to long‐term resident males. These observations are in concordance with the growing evidence of infanticide in savanna baboon societies: mothers would be expected to show negative responses to potentially aggressive males, particularly immigrants. There was evidence to suggest that mothers respond negatively to immigrants only insofar as these males could not have sired their infants. If confirmed by subsequent observations, this result would lend support to the sexual selection model of infanticide.
Incisor size and diet revisited: The view from a platyrrhine perspective
Authors: Eaglen Robert H.
Published: February 2006

Allometric relationships between incisor size and body size were determined for 26 species of New World primates. While previous studies have suggested that the incisors of Old World primates, and anthropoids in general, scale isometrically with body size, the data presented here indicate a negative allometric relationship between incisor size and body size among New World species. This negative allometry was exhibited by platyrrhines when either upper or lower incisor row length was regressed against body weight, and when either least‐squares or bivariate principal axis equations were used. When upper incisor length was plotted against skull length, negative allometry could be sustained using both statistical techniques only when the full sample of 26 species was plotted. The choice of variables to represent incisor size and body size, and the choice of a statistical technique to effect the allometric equation, had a more pronounced impact on the location of individual species with regard to lines of best fit.

Platyrrhines as a group have smaller incisors relative to body size than do catarrhines, regardless of diet. Among New World primates, small incisors represent a plausible primitive condition; species with relatively large incisors manifest a phyletic change associated with a dietary shift to foods that require increased incisal preparation. The opposite trend characterizes Old World primates. In spite of the taxonomic differences in relative incisor size between platyrrhine and catarrhine primates, inferences about diet derived from an allometric equation for all anthropoids should prove reliable as long as the species with unknown diet does not lie at the upper end of the body size range for platyrrhines or catarrhines.
The taung endocast and the lunate sulcus: A rejection of the hypothesis of its anterior position
Authors: Holloway Ralph L.
Published: February 2006

Using an independent method of direct tape‐arc measurements on six chimpanzee brain casts, it is shown that Falk's (1980, 1983) claims regarding an anterior pongidlike placement of a lunate sulcus on the Taung specimen remain unconfirmed. Thus Holloway's (1981) stereoplotting method of testing Falk's hypothesis is independently confirmed, using the actual specimens rather than photographs of them. Falk's (1980) placement of a lunate sulcus falls at least 2.5 standard deviations anterior to a position expected on the basis of a Pan location.
Body hair growth in women: Normal or hirsute
Authors: Lunde Ottar , Grøttum Per
Published: February 2006

The distribution and density of terminal hair growth in 19 different body regions in 113 women of fertile age complaining of embarrassing hair growth (group A) are compared with the findings in 100 normal women of comparable age (group B). Apart from three regions the former group demonstrated significantly more frequent and heavier hair growth than the latter.

A stepwise discriminant analysis showed that the best separation between the two groups could be obtained by assessing the hair growth in the lip, chin, and pubic region. With this set of variables, four women from group A were incorrectly classified as belonging to group B and one woman from group B was classified as belonging to group A.

The serum concentration of testosterone was significantly higher and the serum concentration of TeBG significantly lower in group A than in group B (P < 0.001). Menstrual pattern, body weight, and hereditary factors in group A vs. group B support the impression that the increased terminal hair growth found in group A is due to physiological factors.

From the present data it can be concluded that appraisal of the facial and pubic terminal hair growth should in most cases be sufficient for separating possible hirsutism from normal hair growth in women.
Cranial morphology of Australopithecus afarensis: A comparative study based on a composite reconstruction of the adult skull
Authors: Kimbel William H. , White Tim D. , Johanson Donald C.
Published: February 2006

The Pliocene hominid species Australopithecus afarensis is represented by cranial, dental, and mandibular remains from Hadar, Ethiopia, and Laetoli, Tanzania. These fossils provide important information about the cranial anatomy of the earliest known hominids. Because complete crania or skulls are not known, we produced a composite reconstruction of an adult male skull based on 13 specimens from the Hadar Formation. The reconstruction serves as a testable hypothesis regarding functional relationships in the A. afarensis skull and is the basis for the comparative study presented here.

We examine six major aspects of cranial and mandibular anatomy. We combine our results with those of White et al. (1981) in a discussion of alternate hypotheses of early hominid phylogeny.

In the cranium, jaws, and teeth A. afarensis exhibits a morphological pattern that we interpret as primitive for the Hominidae. Homo habilis retains a number of these primitive features for which A. africanus, A. robustus, and A.boisei share derived character states, particularly in the masticatory apparatus.

Homo and “robust” species of Australopithecus share a suite of derived cranial base features. These shared traits may relate to upper facial orthognathium which is also common to these taxa and are probably indicative of parallelism rather than a close phylogenetic relationship.

The cranial base characteristics of A.L. 333–45 do not, contrary to Olson's (1981) claims, provide evidence for an A. afarensis—“robust” Australopithecus sister group. When the range of mastoid variation in extant African pongids and A. afarensis is examined thoroughly, the Pliocene hominid appears to retain a primitive, rather than derived, morphology.
The ecological role of the callitrichidae: A review
Authors: Sussman R. W. , Kinzey W. G.
Published: February 2006

The marmosets and tamarins fill a unique ecological role among the anthropoid primates, one that has not been fully recognized. Many misconceptions—that they are primitive, monogamous, territorial, and squirrellike—pervade the literature. These misconceptions are largely the result of misinterpreting laboratory studies which have not been confirmed with identified animals in natural habitats. Recent field studies, reviewed here, indicate that marmosets and tamarins have a highly derived ecological role, are not monogamous, feed largely on insects and plant exudates, and have uniquely specialized positional behavior involving clinging to vertical tree trunks in order to feed on exudates. Accompanying these behavioral traits are a number of derived morphological features such as small body size, tendency to twin, clawlike nails on all digits except the hallux, and a three‐cusped upper molar morphology. These form a suite of characteristics unique among the living primates, many of which are related to their ecological role. We believe that the marmosets and tamarins are members of a guild of exudate feeders in which plant exudates are an important component of the diet. It is within this framework of a primate foraging guild that we can best understand many of their morphological and behavioral adaptations.
A reassessment of the taxonomic status and phyletic relationships of Papio baringensis and Papio quadratirostris (Primates: Cercopithecidae)
Authors: Eck Gerald G. , Jablonski Nina G.
Published: February 2006

Comparison of the skulls of Papio baringensis Leakey 1969 from the Chemeron Formation and P. quadratirostris Iwamoto 1982 from the Usno Formation with those of Theropithecus gelada, T. brumpti, T. darti, T. oswaldi, and several species of Papio indicate that the species from Chemeron and Usno exhibit all, or most, respectively, of the shared derived characters of Theropithecus. We propose that they be removed from Papio and placed in Theropithecus as T. baringensis and T. quadratirostris. Comparison of the specimens of T. baringensis and T. quadratirostris with those of T. brumpti indicate that the former two species have some of the derived characters of T. brumpti but are primitive in others. We propose that the three species form the following phyletic lineage: T. baringensis‐T. quadratirostris‐T. brumpti. With these referrals, there are now six species of the genus Theropithecus. Based on geologic grounds, the specimens from Chemeron are about 4.0 million years (m.y.), that from Usno between 3.3 and 3.4 m.y., and those of T. brumpti between 2.0 and 2.8 m.y. in age. We also show that the most complete specimen of Papio sp. nov. from Olduval Gorge belongs to T. oswaldi. With the removal of these specimens from Papio, the East African fossil record of this genus, apart from isolated teeth, comprises only 21 specimens, while that of Theropithecus comprises at least 300 specimens.
Metamorphosis at the sternal rib end: A new method to estimate age at death in white males
Authors: İşcan M. Yaşar , Loth Susan R. , Wright Ronald K.
Published: February 2006

While the pubic symphysis and intracortical morphometry have provided successful results in estimating age at death, other methods and sites in the skeleton are needed to improve the accuracy of age estimation. This research is an attempt to develop a new age‐determination technique by using the sternal extremity of the rib. The right fourth rib was collected at autopsy from 93 white males. The sternal extremity of each rib was analyzed in relation to the pit depth (component I), pit shape (component II), and rim and wall configurations (component III), each of which was divided into six stages. Results indicated that the age at death can be estimated from a rib within about 2 years in the second decade to about 7 years in the fifth and sixth decades of life. Pit shape and rim and wall configurations yielded better results than absolute pit depth alone. While this method has a potentially important contribution to skeletal anthropology, factors such as sex differences and biomechanical variation between individuals may affect the determination of age from the rib.
Microevolution in prehistoric Andean populations: Chronologic nonmetrical cranial variation in northern Chile
Authors: Rothhammer Francisco , Quevedo Silvia , Cocilovo José A. , Llop Elena
Published: February 2006

Multivariate distance statistics were computed from 14 nonmetrical cranial variables among five prehistoric samples representing steps in the microevolutionary history of a coastal population in northern Chile. Roughly 70% of nonmetrical cranial variation was found to be explained by chronologic distance covering a period of 6,500 years. This estimate is similar to a previous one derived from craniometric data. Implications of these findings are briefly discussed.
Paleopathology in an Iroquoian ossuary, with special reference to tuberculosis
Authors: Pfeiffer Susan
Published: February 2006

Pathological skeletal remains from the Uxbridge Ossuary (1490 ± 80 A.D., N = 457) are classified into four broad categories: trauma, congenital disability, tumor, and infection. Traumatic injuries are relatively common (fractures in 5–9.4% of total), considering the date and subsistence pattern of the population. Congenital disabilities and tumors are rare, affecting approximately 2% of the population. Nonspecific periosteitis and osteitis affect 5% of the sample. By far the most common pathological skeletal changes are lytic lesions leading to cavitation of cancellous bone, especially in the lower vertebral and sacro‐iliac regions. It is argued that the changes seen and their distribution are most consistent with a diagnosis of tuberculosis. Applying clinical observations regarding bone involvement, it is estimated that a minimum of 26 skeletons were affected. This in turn indicates a very high population tuberculosis incidence. The Uxbridge sample is neither the only nor the earliest Iroquoian ossuary to display apparent tuberculosis (Hartney 1981). The common presence of this disease in some communities and its low incidence in others are discussed in the context of the epidemic wave phenomenon. There is strong evidence for warfare at Uxbridge, and this warfare may have produced crowding, poor hygiene and diet, such that the disease could flourish.
Primate cortical bone microstructure: Relationship to locomotion
Authors: Schaffler Mitchell B. , Burr David B.
Published: February 2006

Mechanical factors are implicated in the control of osteonal (Haversian) remodeling. Twenty primate species, representing a diverse range of locomotor behaviors, have been examined to determine whether the arrangement of secondary osteonal bone at femoral mid‐diaphysis reflects behaviorally related biomechanical influences. The proportion of bone cortex occupied by secondary osteons (percent osteonal bone) is related to the biomechanical environment of these femora. Percent osteonal bone delineates groups which correspond to other skeletal and kinesiological categorizations of primate locomotion and distinguishes among arboreal quadrupedal, terrestrial quadrupedal, suspensory, and bipedal primates.
A genetic model of dental reduction through the probable mutation effect
Authors: McKee Jeffrey K.
Published: February 2006

A simulation approach is used in order to elucidate the nature of the hypothesized “probable mutation effect” as it applies to dental reduction in man. Computer‐generated simulations of the accumulation of mutations in a human gene pool show the results of the proposed model under the influence of various parameters, as well as illustrating the nature of such genetic change through time. This approach supports a polygenic model of the probable mutation effect as a viable hypothesis for an explanation of the dental reduction which has occurred in some human populations over the last 40,000 years.
Relationship between heterozygosity and genetic distance in the three major races of man
Authors: Chakraborty Ranajit
Published: February 2006

In pairwise comparisons of gene frequency data from the three major races of man, the single locus measures of the heterozygosity within and the genetic distance between races are shown to be strongly correlated across the loci coding for red cell proteins and enzymes. The intercept of the regression line of genetic distance on heterozygosity in protein enzyme loci is statistically insignificant. These findings suggest that the genetic variability at the enzyme and protein loci in man is probably maintained by a balance of mutation and random genetic drift. At the blood group loci, however, the observed relationship between genetic distance and heterozygosity does not follow the expectation of the neutral mutation hypothesis. These observations are discussed in terms of the changes in probability of identical monomorphism in two populations during the process of gene differentiation.
Mechanism of intraoral transport in macaques
Authors: Franks Herschel A. , Crompton A. W. , German Rebecca Z.
Published: February 2006

All mammals have the same divisions of cyclic movement of tongue and hyoid during mastication: a protraction or forward phase that begins at minimum gape, and a retraction or return phase. Nonanthropoid mammals transport food from the oral cavity to the oropharynx during the return phase; food on the dorsal surface of the tongue moves distally while the tongue is retracted. Macaques, however, transport food during the protraction phase of tongue/hyoid movement. Food is squeezed posteriorly by contact between the tongue surface and the palate anterior to the food.

This mechanism of transport is occasionally seen in nonanthropoid mammals when they are transporting liquids from the oral cavity to the oropharynx. It has, however, not been seen when these mammals transport solid food. One morphological basis for this difference is the reduction in height of the rugae of the palate of macaques. In most mammals these rugae are pronounced ridges that are able to hold food in place during protraction as the tongue slides forward beneath the food.

Anthropoids and other mammals differ in the way they store food prior to swallowing. When macaques transport food to the oropharynx, usually they swallow in the next cycle, but always in the next 2 or 3 cycles. Most mammals transport and store food in the oropharynx for several cycles before a swallow clears that region of food. This behavior is correlated with differences in morphology of the oropharynx; anthropoids have reduced valleculae, the area in which other mammals store food prior to swallowing.
A statistical evaluation of the basis for predicting stature from lengths of long bones in European populations
Authors: Boldsen Jesper
Published: February 2006

The differences between the variance structures of the bivariate pairs (height, length of the femur) and (height, length of the tibia) are insignificant when estimated from male and female samples of European derived populations, thus the regression lines for the predictions of height are parallel. The variance of height in samples of predicted heights is discussed and the consequences for the statistical analysis of average heights are indicated.
A medieval case of metastasizing carcinoma with multiple osteosclerotic bone lesions
Authors: Tkocz Izabella , Bierring Franz
Published: February 2006

The skeleton of a mature male from the Middle Ages, excavated in Svendborg, Denmark, presented multiple osteosclerotic metastases probably of a carcinoma of the prostate gland. This diagnosis is based on radiographic and histological studies. Coexisting gross changes of the spine are identified as vertebral osteophytosis.
Demography of the Juang tribal population of Orissa
Authors: Ray Ajit Kisor , Roth Eric Abella
Published: February 2006

Demographic analysis of genealogical data collected in 1954 for 23 Juang villages was undertaken employing indirect estimation techniques and computer projection methodology. Results indicated that this group did not feature the historically high fertility levels associated with Indian tribal groups, although fertility was higher than previously reported for the Juang. The population did feature a mortality differential, with worse mortality conditions than the Indian national population at this time. Reversed sexual mortality differentials, common in South Asian populations, were also present for the Juang. Computer projection investigation revealed a steadily growing population, in contrast to some Indian tribal groups faced with extinction.
Pathology and the posture of the La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints Neandertal
Authors: Trinkaus Erik
Published: February 2006

The depiction of the Neandertals as incompletely erect was based primarily on Boule's (1911, 1912a, 1913) analysis of the La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints 1 partial skeleton. The inaccurate aspects of Boule's postural reconstruction were corrected during the 1950s. However, it has come to be believed, following Straus and Cave (1957), that Boule's errors of reconstruction were due to the diseased condition of the La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints 1 remains, rather than to Boule's misinterpretation of morphology. The abnormalities on the La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints 1 postcranium include: lower cervical, upper thoracic, and lower thoracic intervertebral degenerative joint disease (DJD), a distal fracture of a mid‐thoracic rib, extensive DJD of the left hip, DJD of the right fifth proximal interphalangeal articulation, bilateral humeral head eburnation, and minor exostosis formation on the right humerus, ulna, and radius. These were associated with extensive alveolar inflammation including apical abscesses and antemortem tooth loss, some temporomandibular DJD, bilateral auditory exostoses, and minimal occipital condyle DJD. None of these abnormalities sifnificantly affected Boule's Neandertal postural reconstruction, and a review of his analysis indicates that early twentieth century interpretations of skeletal morphology (primarily of the cranium, cervical vertebrae, lumbar and sacral vertebrae, proximal femora and tibiae, posterior tarsals, and hallucial tarsometatarsal joint), combined with Boule's evolutionary preconceptions, were responsible for his mistaken view of Neandertal posture.
The dentition of the “old man” of La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints and inferences concerning Neandertal behavior
Authors: Tappen N. C.
Published: February 2006

It has been suggested that the fossil Neandertal from La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints was so toothless that he would have had to have his food pre‐chewed or otherwise prepared for him. This has also led to the inference that a high level of altruistic social behavior was characteristic of Neandertals. This appears to be in keeping with a current trend among anthropologists to upgrade the cultural and evolutionary status of Neandertals. Close examination of the recovered teeth and the condition of the alveoli indicates that the “old man” of La Chapelle‐aux‐Saints had upper and lower incisor, canine and premolar teeth on the left side intact and probably in occlusion, and that the same was true of these teeth in the right maxilla. Mandibular incisors, canine, and first premolar had probably been lost to a tumor or abscessing on the right side, but this pathology may have developed near the time of death. The right mandibular second premolar was probably functional, although tilted similarly to the intact premolar on the left. It is very unlikely that the individual was unable to chew food. The dentition thus gives no reliable evidence of altruistic behavior by his cohorts. This study may also relate to hypotheses concerning the ancestry of anatomically modern humans.
Morphologic characteristics of the Alaskan Eskimo dentition: IV. Cusp number and groove patterns of mandibular molars
Authors: Hasund Asbjörn , Bang Gisle
Published: February 2006

Data on the permanent dentition of 63 coastal and 33 inland Alaskan Eskimos are presented. The number of cusps and groove pattern of the mandibular molars were recorded. Agenesis of the mandibular third molars was classified and the mesiodistal and buccolingual crown diameter was measured on the first and the second mandibular molars. The predominant pattern of the lower first molars was Y5, while for the second molar the dominating patterns were +5 and +4. In the lower third molar, +5 was found in the majority of cases. For M1 and M2, men showed a stronger tendency toward a conservative pattern than did women. In the case of M2, the inland population exhibited a more conservative trait than did the coastal population. No connection was seen between the groove pattern and agenesis of M3, however, a reduction in the mesiodistal crown diameter for the second molars was seen when the number of cusps is reduced from 5 to 4.
Anatomical and microscopic study of the volar dermal ridges of the rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Okajima M. , Asai Y.
Published: February 2006

The epidermal ridges of the rat (Rattus norvegicus), which are distributed only on the volar pads and digital apices, were studied. Examination of the ridges was difficult on the epidermal surface, as the undulations expressed on the epidermis are weak. Therefore, the dermal surface, prepared by alkaline solution treatment, was inspected by scanning electron microscopy and staining with toluidine blue. The dermis of the pads and digital apices is composed of ridged and rippled areas. The ridged area, where sweat ducts are distributed, is constructed of grooves and ramparts. Frequently, the sweat duct is surrounded by a dermal collar, and the groove is separated by a dermal partition. The grooves and ramparts display dermatoglyphic configurations, such as whorls, loops, cusps, triradii, and some other patterns, which are peculiar to each pad and digital apex and comparable to dermatoglyphic patterns, of man and other primates.
Interlimb coordination and gait in the brown lemur (Lemur fulvus) and the talapoin monkey (Miopithecus talapoin)
Authors: Jungers William L. , Anapol Fred C.
Published: February 2006

Patterns of interlimb coordination based on telemetered electromyography of extensor muscles are described for the brown lemur (Lemur fulvus) and the talapoin monkey (Miopithecus talapoin) in order to address the issue of possible motor programs for quadrupedal stepping in primates. Differences in modal patterns of ipsilateral limb coupling (phase intervals) between walking and galloping indicate that gait‐specific programs do exist in primates, especially for symmetrical gaits. These preferred patterns distinguish primates from most other mammals (e.g., the domestic cat), but do not rule out the possibility of subtle differences among primates in species‐specific mechanisms of neural control. Variability about the preferred modes is better interpreted as an expression of the flexibility or facultative capabilities of the neural mechanisms controlling locomotion than as “errors” in the motor program.
Genetic variation in North Amerindian populations: Covariance with climate
Authors: O'Rourke Dennis H. , Suarez Brian K. , Crouse Jill D.
Published: February 2006

Allelic frequencies at seven polymorphic loci in 74 North Amerindian populations are examined relative to patterns of climatic variation. Canonical correlation analysis reveals strong and significant associations of heterozygosity at the ABO, Ss, Duffy, and P loci with climatic variability. Principal component analysis demonstrates that these loci tend to form correlated ensembles. Moreover, canonical correlation analysis of component scores provides support for an association between polymorphism at these loci and environmental variability. The results are concordant with two previous investigations which suggested a relationship between polymorphism for the ABO, Duffy, and Diego systems and climate. It is suggested that the examination of broad geographic patterns of genetic variation at multiple loci is a valuable, but underutilized, method of screening for the effects of long‐term systematic pressures.
Three‐dimensional cranial surface reconstructions using high‐resolution computed tomography
Authors: Vannier Michael W. , Conroy Glenn C. , Marsh Jeffrey L. , Knapp Robert H.
Published: February 2006

Until recently, there has been no satisfactory way for anthropologists to visualize intracranial morphology in more than two dimensions without actually “invading” the skull in some manner. Images provided by conventional x‐ray and computed tomography (CT) scans are often abstract, flat, two‐dimensional representations that fail to reveal three‐dimensional relationships. We describe new computer‐imaging techniques that reconstruct three‐dimensional images from sequential series of narrowly collimated (1–2 mm), high‐resolution CT scans of the skull. These computed images represent three‐dimensional surface data and can be viewed from any direction. Depth information is encoded in gray scale. In addition, selected portions of the anatomy can be “removed,” i.e., made transparent, to allow visualization of previously hidden intracranial morphology. Since the geometric data obtained with the CT scanner are precise, parameters such as linear distances, angles, areas, and volumes can be accurately (and instantaneously) generated. The power and versatility of these computer‐imaging techniques are demonstrated by examining (1) living subjects with major craniofacial dysmorphology (Treacher‐Collins syndrome and unilateral coronal synostosis); (2) an anthropoid osteological specimen (Gorilla); and (3) a fossil mammal skull.
Stresses on the limbs of quadrupedal primates
Authors: Reynolds Thomas R.
Published: February 2006

Data is presented from eight primates on the ground reaction forces on the limbs during locomotion. These subjects supported from 30 to 45% of their body weight on their forelimbs. Other quadrupedal mammals support 55–60% of their body weight on their forelimbs. The increase of peak vertical force with speed varies greatly between the subjects. The variation in weight supported by the forelimbs and the peak forces on the forelimbs is proposed to correlate with variation in locomotor adaptations. It is suggested that the occurrence of bipedalism in primates represents the extreme expression of the tendency in primates to reduce the compressive forces on their forelimbs.
Effects of age and sex on the amount and distribution of mineral in Eskimo tibiae
Authors: Martin R. B. , Burr D. B. , Schaffler M. B.
Published: February 2006

The bone mineral content (BMC), bone width, and cross‐sectional moment of inertia (CSMI) of 141 Alaskan Eskimo tibias were measured using photon absorptiometry. The effects of age and sex on the bones' structural properties were studied. It was found that in women, BMC decreased by 50% between the third and sixth decades, but that of the males did not decline significantly with age. This was true of the CSMI as well, for bending in both the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) planes. This result is different than that in some other prehistoric native American populations, where tibia CSMI increases with age in both sexes. The CSMI values were significantly higher in men than in women. Also, in men the AP CSMI was 55% larger than the ML CSMI; in women this difference was only 25%, and declined with age. Since the tibia is preferentially loaded in the AP plane by locomotor activities, the platycnemic differences between the sexes may reflect sex‐related differences in activity which become more pronounced with age. The non‐destructive method for obtaining data on the cross‐sectional geometry of dry bones which is described here may be useful in studying other archaeological collections.
A simple univariate technique for determining sex from fragmentary femora: Its application to a Scottish short cist population
Authors: MacLaughlin Susan M. , Bruce Margaret F.
Published: February 2006

A simple univariate technique for sexing individuals represented by fragmentary skeletal remains is described. The results obtained were highly consistent (about 90%) with those obtained by conventional analysis of pelvic and cranial morphology. It is suggested that using maximum anteroposterior diameter of the femoral shaft as a sex discriminator has advantages over midshaft circumference even when intact femora are available.
Multifactorial determination of skeletal age at death: A method and blind tests of its accuracy
Authors: Lovejoy C. Owen , Meindl Richard S. , Mensforth Robert P. , Barton Thomas J.
Published: February 2006

Traditional methods of estimating skeletal age at death have relied solely on the pubic symphyseal face or on this indicator combined with others in nonsystematic ways. A multifactorial method is presented that uses a principal components weighting of five indicators (pubic symphyseal face, auricular surface, radiographs of proximal femur, dental wear, and suture closure). This method has been tested by completely blind assessment of age in two samples from the Todd collection carefully screened for accuracy of stated age at death. Results show a marked superiority of the multifactorial method over any single indicator with respect to both bias and accuracy. This represents the first truly blind test of an age‐at‐death indicator or system, as the test populations were independent of the system(s) being tested, and the age, sex, and ethnogeographic origin of the individuals being assessed (as well as the compositions of the test samples with respect to these variables) were completely unknown until the tests were completed. Implications for paleodemography are discussed.
Chronological metamorphosis of the auricular surface of the ilium: A new method for the determination of adult skeletal age at death
Authors: Lovejoy C. Owen , Meindl Richard S. , Pryzbeck Thomas R. , Mensforth Robert P.
Published: February 2006

A new method for the determination of adult skeletal age at death based upon chronological changes in the auricular surface of the ilium is presented. Formal stages have been constructed following extensive tests and refinements in observations made of such changes. Two completely “blind” tests were conducted to assess the accuracy and bias of the new method. Results show that the system is equally accurate to pubic symphyseal aging (although somewhat more difficult to apply), and also carries the advantages of a higher preservation rate for the auricular surface in archaeological populations and continued age‐related change beyond the fifth decade.
Sex determination from chest plate roentgenograms
Authors: McCormick William F. , Stewart John Harlan , Langford Lauren A.
Published: February 2006

Precise sexing–97% to 99% accuracy–of adult chest plates is possible when highly predictive costal cartilage ossification patterns are combined with four simple metric determinations. More than 1100 chest plate roentgenograms were evaluated for ossification pattern, fourth rib width, corpus width, sternal length and sternal area in an adult decedent population. An elementary, empirically obtained algorithm using the patternings and measurements, along with simple derivations (sternal length and area indices) was developed and then applied in chest plate sexing. This technique is not only easy, rapid and inexpensive, but it also results in a permanent and easily stored record.
Cemental annulation enhancement: A technique for age determination in man
Authors: Naylor Jay W. , Miller W. George , Stokes Gary N. , Stott George G.
Published: February 2006

Cemental annulations are easily countable in teeth from animals that have an exaggerated regular change of food intake from season to season. Although present in human teeth, cemental annulations are not always easy to count. A method for preparing human teeth for evaluation involving collection, identification, measuring, sectioning, cleaning, acid etching, staining, and mounting is reported. Sections 100‐μm thick were stained with cresyl fast violet as a stain of choice and were photographed using standard light microscopic techniques as well as Nomarsky interference microscopy. Countability of annulations from photographic enlargements was evaluated.
Individual variation in enamel structure of human mandibular first premolars
Authors: Stern Doris , Skobe Ziedonis
Published: February 2006

Nine human mandibular first premolars were examined to assess variation in external morphology and enamel structural organization within a tooth type. The relationship of enamel ultrastructure to gross dental morphology was also studied. The teeth were cut in the mesiodistal direction just lingual to the buccal cusp, and etched. Montages were constructed of the cut enamel surface photographed in the scanning electron microscope at 100 × magnification. Parameters were measured and correlation coefficients were calculated for the comparison of various odontometric features.

The mesiodistal and buccolingual dimensions were highly correlated and the occlusal thickness of enamel was signficantly correlated to crown height but not crown width. Hunter‐Schreger bands were less pronounced in fossa areas than at lateral aspects, cusps, or ridges; these bands were directly related to the geometry of the tooth.

It was concluded that within this tooth type, there is a large amount of individual variation not only in gross morphology but also in enamel ultra‐structure. This result underscores the fact that interspecific comparisons must be made with care.
Growth status of disadvantaged urban Guatemalan children of a resettled community
Authors: Johnston Francis E. , Low Setha M. , de Baessa Yetilu , MacVean Robert B.
Published: February 2006

This paper reports the physical growth and body composition from the first year of a longitudinal study of 519 Guatemalan children, and their families, from a disadvantaged urban community consisting largely of refugees of the 1976 earthquake. Four cohorts are described, composed of children of 1,3,5, and 7 years at examination. The children are smaller, weigh less, and have reduced fat stores compared either to NCHS reference data or to upper SES Guatemalan children. Stature (or length) and head circumference deviate more from reference data than do triceps or upper arm muscle circumference. Greater deviations are found in the linear dimensions of males than of females. These children are the smallest yet described from Guatemala City, though they are slightly larger than available rural samples. This suggests a continuum of environmental effects acting upon the growth of children of differing socioeconomic levels.
Effects of the Y chromosome on quantitative growth: An anthropometric study of 47,XYY males
Authors: Varrela Juha , Alvesalo Lassi
Published: February 2006

The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of the Y chromosome on different body and head dimensions of 47,XYY males, and especially its effect on their body proportions. From seven adult 47,XYY males 25 anthropometric measurements were recorded and compared with four male relatives and 42 control males. In most dimensions 47,XYY males were larger than the normal males, the difference being mainly between 0.5 and 1.5 S.D. units. The body proportions of 47,XYY males were found to be similar to those of the normal males when the effect of size was allowed for. It is concluded that the extra Y chromosome in 47,XYY males causes an increase in their growth without affecting the body proportions. This finding suggests that the Y chromosome contains gene(s) which affects growth by increasing its quantitative outcome. This effect may be mediated by a direct action of the Y chromosome on the cells. It also may seem that the Y chromosomal gene(s) influence the development of the sex difference in height and body size.
Relative tibia long bone growth in the Libben and Bt‐5 prehistoric skeletal populations
Authors: Mensforth Robert P.
Published: February 2006

Patterns of tibia long bone growth were examined for the Libben Late Woodland and Bt‐5 Late Archaic hunter‐gatherer skeletal groups. Subadults included in the analyses ranged in age from birth to 10 years. The primary goals were to (1) identify potential differences in relative tibia growth and (2) evaluate the extent to which such differences were concordant with demographic and epidemiological characteristics of the two groups. Methods used were designed to minimize the shortcomings of unknown age and sex of the skeleton, small sample sizes, and population differences in adult size attained. Results showed that Bt‐5 preadolescent growth performance and health status in general were superior to those of the Libben group. Modifications in the rate and timing of Libben tibia growth occurred early and were primarily restricted to the weaning period. It is suggested that high levels of lmeciious disease experienced in the first years of life at Libben played a substantial role in the etiology of (1) early long bone growth retardation, (2) a greater prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in the childhood years, and (3) elevated levels of subadult morbidity and mortality compared to Bt‐5. Paleo‐demographic, paleoepidemiological, and modern comparative population data that support these inferences are discussed. No evidence of chronic malnutrition owing to dietary inadequacy was observed for either group. Alternatively, higher population density and greater degree of sedentism alone may have been responsible for elevated disease loads at Libben compared to low levels that were observed for the seasonally mobile semisedentary Bt‐5 hunter‐gatherers.
Expression count: A method for calculating morphological dental trait frequencies by using adjustable weighting coefficients with standard ranked scales
Authors: Turner Christy G.
Published: February 2006

Expression count is the term used for a new method of calculating the frequency of a morphological dental trait in a population sample. This method incorporates into a single value the total trait variation expressed in the sample. It has been designed to increase the information content of small samples of dental remains common with archeological recovery.
Analysis of a microcephalic child from the late period (ca. 1100–1700 A.D.) of Central California
Authors: Richards Gary D.
Published: February 2006

Microcephaly is a severe developmental abnormality which is induced either genetically or environmentally. The archaeological evidence for the occurrence of this abnormality is minimal. Out of six possible cases, only three have been published; all are adult and represented solely by cranial remains. The focus of the current study is the nearly complete skeleton of a 3‐year‐old child recovered during archaeological excavations in San Jose, California. The individual is compared to a sample of 184 California Indians, ranging from 0.5 to 5 years, which were also recovered from archaeological excavations. In order to determine if microcephaly was the only disorder represented, metrical comparisons of the skull and postcrania and gross mor‐phological comparisons of endocranial casts were made. Based on these comparisons the individual was determined to have a cranial vault size comparable to 6‐month‐old infants (630 cc), a facial skeleton equivalent to the 9‐month‐old to 2‐year‐old age groups, and a reduced stature. Due to the mosaic nature of the skull, the observed morphology was interpreted in terms of functional cranial components. Severe malformation of the orbital aspect of the frontal lobes was found in conjunction with a significant reduction in size of the cerebral cortex and left temporal lobe. On the basis of this analysis, the individual was found to exhibit the total morphological pattern associated with microcephaly: A differential diagnosis of other possible genetic disorders is also presented.
Socioeconomic variation in the growth status of children in a subsistence agricultural community
Authors: Malina Robert M. , Little Bertis B. , Buschang Peter H. , DeMoss John , Selby Henry A.
Published: February 2006

Socioeconomic variation in the growth status of 293 children, 6 through 13 years of age, from a rural subsistence agricultural community in southern Mexico was considered. Socioeconomic status was based on an index developed from landholdings, household goods, and occupation, and households were classified as high and low status. Growth measurements included weight, stature, sitting height, estimated leg length, arm and estimated arm muscle circumferences, triceps skinfold, and right gripping strength. The growth status of boys showed a clear socioeconomic differential, while that of girls did not. The results are consistent with the generalization that males are more influenced by environmental stresses than females, including, of course, the favorable stress of improved socioeconomic circumstances, even within seemingly single‐class rural communities.