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Biological, Digital, and Isotopic Analyses of Anatomically Prepared Human Skeletal Remains of Unknown Provenance
Department: Anthropology
ResourceLengthWidthThickness
Paper000
Specimen Elements
Pocatello
Unknown to Unknown
Spencer A. Moore
Idaho State University
Thesis
Yes
9/23/2026
digital
City: Pocatello
Master
This study examines a collection of human skeletal remains of unknown origin that have been prepared as anatomical specimens and curated for instructional use. Although these individuals lack documentation regarding their acquisition or provenance, their skeletal remains preserve measurable biological and environmental information that can be evaluated through osteological and chemical analyses. The aim of this research is to establish demographic individuality within the collection as a first step toward clarifying who is represented. Osteometric and morphoscopic methods were used to estimate age-at-death, sex, ancestry affiliation, and stature. Stable isotope analysis of dental collagen was conducted to assess childhood dietary patterns, and digital facial approximation was used to generate visual representations of individuals within the sample. The results show that, while personal identity cannot be recovered from skeletal evidence alone, consistent biological patterns can be identified across the sample. These findings emphasize the distinction between demographic individuality and personal identity. By establishing structured profiles for previously unknown individuals, this study provides a foundation for their continued interpretation and for informed decisions regarding the management and use of anatomical skeletal collections. Keywords: Bioarchaeology, Skeletal Collections, Materiality, Biological Profile, Stable Isotope Analysis, Digital Facial Approximation

Biological, Digital, and Isotopic Analyses of Anatomically Prepared Human Skeletal Remains of Unknown Provenance

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