Fragment-Identification Approach
Definition
Assessment of preserved articular form, attachment landmarks, cross-sectional shape and internal architecture to identify a skeletal element or region. Suitable comparative material and adequate preservation are required; some fragments remain indeterminate.
Related terms
- Cortical Index
- The ratio of total cortical bone area to total bone cross-sectional area at a defined midshaft location. Used in fragment identification to...
- Fragment Identification
- The assignment of a bone fragment to a specific skeletal element (rib, long-bone shaft, vertebral arch, cranial vault, etc.) and anatomical region,...
- Haversian Canal
- The central vascular channel of an osteon, carrying blood vessels and nerves through the cortical bone. Diameter 20-70 µm in human bone....
- Minimum Number of Individuals (MNI)
- A minimum estimate of individuals represented after reliable sorting by element, side and developmental status. Repeated anatomical portions and incompatible remains inform...
- Neural Arch
- The posterior bony arch of a vertebra, formed by two pedicles and two laminae meeting at the spinous process. In foetal and...
- Osteon
- An osteonal unit contains concentric lamellae around a vascular canal. Secondary osteons record remodelling; size and shape vary and overlap among species,...
- Plexiform Bone
- A primary bone type in large non-human mammals (cattle, horses, sheep) characterised by alternating zones of woven bone, lamellar bone, and vascular...
- Side Determination
- The osteological process of assigning a paired skeletal element (clavicle, humerus, femur, rib, os coxae, etc.) to the left or right side...
- Species Confirmation (DNA)
- A validated molecular assessment of taxonomic origin using appropriate controls and comparisons. It is distinct from personal identification; a partial human-targeted STR...