Forensics Journal - Stevenson University 2011 | Page 38

STEVENSON UNIVERSITY

Although brushite formation has destroyed many skeletal remains
from the adults in this series, select individuals show pathological
conditions associated with aging, congenital conditions, and trauma.
Burial 6 shows marked anterior angular kyphosis of the T8 to T12
vertebrae, compression of the T9 vertebra, signs of arthritis, extensive
ossification of rib costal cartilage and slight enthesophyte (bone spur)
formations. This individual also shows a hereditary congenital defect,
known as tarso-metatarsal coalition, in which the third right metatarsal was joined with the third right phalanx, a condition usually present during childhood or early adolescence. This condition probably
would not have caused significant pain or discomfort. The historical
documentation as to an illness related to the cause of death of Alfred
Richards was also apparent during a pathological analysis. The death
certificate of Alfred Richards (provided by the family) stated that his
cause of death was related to pulmonary edema and diabetes mellitus.
Antemortem amputation of four of his toes (three right metatarsals
and a left proximal phalanx) was likely caused from complications
associated with his diabetes mellitus. Burial 7 exhibits milder signs of
aging with only slight arthritis, and a congenital anomaly in which
she has an extra vertebra and 13th ribs. Burial 15 did not exhibit any
pathological conditions on the skeletal remains themselves; however,
both the brain and stomach contents of this individual were mummified. The stomach contents revealed evidence of grape seeds, scientifically known as Vitis riparia, which were identified by Jun Wen, a
specialist in the Department of Botany at the Smithsonian’s National
Museum of Natural History.

measured for items identified as having been consumed, and because
isotopic compositions can only be used to distinguish certain food
groups rather than individual food items” (Ke Y