Human Remains
Articles tagged with Human Remains
Ice Age butcher’s tools are a sign of ancient humans’ creativity during hard times
The discovery of complex stone tools at the Lingjing archaeological site in China suggests that ancient humans were capable of advanced technological thinking and creativity. The tools, crafted by Homo juluensis, show a high level of organization and planning, indicating a deep understanding of stone properties and fracture mechanics.
DNA matches identify four more sailors from Franklin expedition
Researchers from the University of Waterloo have identified four more members of Sir John Franklin's 1845 expedition using DNA samples extracted from skeletal remains. The new discoveries bring the total number of identified sailors to six, providing previously unavailable details about the circumstances and locations of their deaths.
New genetic evidence from Stajnia Cave reveals the oldest Neanderthal group reconstructed in Central-Eastern Europe
The study reconstructs the genetic profile of a small group of Neanderthals from Stajnia Cave, Poland, providing a coherent genetic picture of Neanderthals in this part of Europe. The discovery sheds light on the distribution of a particular Neanderthal maternal lineage in western Eurasia.
Ancient burial practices and DNA research reveal that family goes beyond genetic relatedness
Researchers use ancient DNA and burial practices to show that family ties can be more than just blood-related. This challenges traditional views of kinship, highlighting the importance of cultural and anthropological perspectives in understanding family dynamics.
Medieval DNA reveals trans-Saharan connections, rapid genetic mixing, and leprosy in Islamic Ibiza
A study from Stockholm University found a diverse population in medieval Ibiza connected to Europe, North Africa, and sub-Saharan Africa through trade and migration. Genetic analysis also identified the first confirmed case of leprosy in medieval Islamic Iberia.
Life and death in Late Bronze Age Central Europe
A new interdisciplinary study provides detailed insights into the lives of people living in Central Europe during the Late Bronze Age, revealing gradual changes in ancestry, dietary flexibility, and mortuary practices. The research suggests that communities participated in wider networks of interaction and incorporated change into exis...
Ancient diets reveal surprising survival strategies in prehistoric Poland
Researchers reconstructed diets of prehistoric communities in north-central Poland, shedding light on how people adapted to changing environments and social landscapes. The study found that Corded Ware communities herded animals in forests and that millet consumption varied among groups, reflecting identity and group boundaries.
Hunter-gatherers northwestern Europe adopted farming from migrant women, study reveals
A new study published in Nature found that hunter-gatherers in Belgium and the Netherlands adopted farming thousands of years later than elsewhere in Europe. The research suggests that migrant women played a pivotal role in introducing farming practices, bringing their knowledge and genes to the local communities.
A new study refines the dating of human past on the Cantabrian coast 18,000 years ago
A new study refines radiocarbon dating of marine remains in the Cantabrian region of Spain, improving precision for reconstructing human past during the Magdalenian period. The research provides new correction values to accurately interpret site chronology and fine-tune the 'clock' used to reconstruct Palaeolithic human populations.
Ancient teeth are treasure troves of data on Iron Age lifestyles
A study of ancient teeth from Pontecagnano reveals details about childhood growth and health, as well as adult diets that included cereals, legumes, and fermented foods. The analysis provides insights into the lifestyle and adaptations of the Iron Age Italian community.
Early hominins from Morocco reveal an African lineage near the root of Homo sapiens
The study of new hominin fossils from Thomas Quarry I in Morocco reveals an African population near the base of the Homo sapiens lineage. The 773,000-year-old fossils provide insights into the shared ancestry of H. sapiens, Neandertals, and Denisovans.
Groundbreaking discovery reveals Africa’s oldest cremation pyre and complex ritual practices
A new study reveals Africa's oldest known in situ cremation pyre containing the remains of an adult, dated around 9,500 years ago. The discovery suggests that ancient African hunter-gatherer communities had complex ritual practices involving posthumous removal and reburial of body parts.
Murder in cold blood?
Researchers successfully identified the skeletal remains of Duke Béla, a member of the Árpád and Rurik dynasties, using a combination of genetic and dental analyses. The study reveals that Béla was attacked by multiple individuals, consuming a diet rich in animal protein.
Study suggests two unsuspected pathogens struck Napoleon's army during the retreat from Russia in 1812
Scientists from Institut Pasteur identified Salmonella enterica and Borrelia recurrentis in remains of 13 soldiers who retreated from Russia in 1812. The study suggests these two pathogens may have contributed to the high number of deaths in Napoleon's army.
Gut parasites identified from feces of ancient Mexican people
A study published in PLOS One identified genetic signatures of diverse gut parasites in ancient Mexican feces, revealing high prevalence of pathogens like pinworm and E. coli. The analysis provides insights into intestinal disease and sanitation practices of ancient cultures.
1,000-year-old gut microbiome revealed for young man who lived in pre-Hispanic Mexico
Researchers analyzed the gut microbiome of a 1,000-year-old mummy from Zimapán, Mexico, revealing specific types of bacteria present. The findings expand knowledge of ancient microbiomes and may provide clues to the individual's life, including their diet, health, and lifestyle.
Ancient teeth provide new insight into the lives of the world’s first farming villagers
Researchers analyzed ancient teeth from 71 people in modern Syria to reconstruct mobility patterns of Neolithic farming villagers. They found that most people stayed local, but women were more likely to move between communities, suggesting complex social dynamics.
An archaeological breakthrough will facilitate the mapping of underground spaces - The technology will enable 3D imaging of the subsurface for archaeological excavations.
Archaeologists can now map hidden voids such as tunnels and channels using muon tomography, a method that detects changes in soil penetrability to cosmic radiation particles. The technology was successfully demonstrated at the City of David archaeological site in Jerusalem.
How the Slavic migration reshaped Central and Eastern Europe
The study reveals that Slavic groups originated in the region between the Dniester and Don rivers and migrated across Central and Eastern Europe. The genetic data show a mosaic of different groups adapting to local contexts, with no significant sex bias in migrations.
Innovative, versatile, and economical technology for preserving cultural heritage
The Conservation Soft Box is an airtight, controlled environment case that preserves cultural heritage with minimal maintenance. It achieves similar results to expensive display cases but at a much lower cost, making it accessible to countries with limited resources.
New research reconstructs the identity of victims from one of the earliest victory celebrations in Europe.
The study reveals that victims had different dietary patterns and showed signs of higher mobility and physiological stress, suggesting they were outsiders. This finds supports a two-tiered ritual: local enemies killed in battle were dismembered as trophies; others, likely captives, were subjected to violent execution.
Earliest evidence discovered of interbreeding between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals
A 140,000-year-old child's skeleton from Israel reveals biological ties between Neanderthals and early Homo sapiens through unique morphological traits. The discovery confirms genetic exchanges between the two groups, with up to 6% of modern humans' genome originating from Neanderthals.
Black Death offers window into how childhood malnutrition affects adult health
Researchers found that people who experienced malnutrition early in life may have survived threats like plague at greater rates until young adulthood. However, this survival advantage could drop significantly when entering middle and late adult years.
When ideas travel further than people
A new study reconciles opposing views on the spread of Neolithic farming by combining archaeology and genetics. The research found that cultural changes occurred through both people migration and the spread of ideas, depending on the region and period.
Study casts doubt on ‘incestuous royalty’ in Neolithic Ireland
Researchers challenge the idea of an incestuous social elite ruling over ancient Ireland, citing a lack of corroborating evidence from nearby settlements and dietary practices. The study suggests that the society was more equal, with people sharing resources and living in similar dwellings.
Otago researchers help unlock ancient migration secrets
Otago researchers have recovered ancient genomes from Papua New Guinea, shedding light on the genetic diversity of pre-colonial coastal communities. The study reveals that cultural groups did not intermarry for some time, suggesting a complex tapestry of different cultures and peoples.
Philippine islands had technologically advanced maritime culture 35,000 years ago
The Philippine archipelago has been found to have a sophisticated ancient technology dating back over 30,000 years, with evidence of seafaring capabilities and specific fishing skills. The discovery highlights the region's significance in the narrative of human migration and adaptation in Island Southeast Asia.
A turning point in the Bronze Age: the diet was changed and the society was transformed
A new study reveals radical changes in mobility, diet, and social inequalities during the Late Bronze Age, around 1500 BC. The researchers found that people's food consumption became more uniform but poorer, while animal husbandry and migration patterns changed.
Researchers estimate that early humans began smoking meat to extend its shelf life as long as a million years ago
Researchers propose that early humans used fire to smoke and dry meat to preserve it for extended periods, safeguarding large game from predators and scavengers. This new hypothesis offers a fresh perspective on the origins of fire use in prehistoric humans.
New method provides the key to accessing proteins in ancient human remains
Researchers developed a new method for extracting and identifying proteins from ancient soft tissues, providing insights into past lives and diseases. The technique identified over 1,200 ancient proteins from 2.5mg of sample, offering a window on human history.
The Roman massacre that never happened according to a new study of an iconic archaeological site
A new study by Bournemouth University reveals that the 'war-cemetery' at Maiden Castle did not die in a single event, but rather experienced lethal violence spanning multiple generations. The findings question the traditional narrative of Roman conquest and highlight the need for reevaluation of other archaeological cemeteries.
Archaeologists combine cutting edge research techniques to shed light on the treatment of individuals with disabilities in the late Middle Ages
Researchers analyzed a skeleton with a severe knee injury to uncover the complexities of social attitudes towards individuals with disabilities in medieval Europe. The study found that despite negative cultural views, some individuals with disabilities received long-term care and prominent burials.
Influenza virus hacks cell's internal system
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg discovered that the influenza A virus exploits a protein called AGO2 to regulate gene activity and weaken the immune system. An existing drug, arsenic trioxide, showed promise in increasing interferon production and reducing viral loads.
MSU to create first-of-its-kind database for analyzing human remains
MSU is developing a computer program called MOSAIC to create holistic biological profiles from skeletal remains, making the investigative process clearer and more efficient. The project aims to leverage relationships between various structures to provide estimates without biasing results by focusing on individual components.
First burials: Neanderthal and Homo sapiens interactions in the Mid-Middle Palaeolithic Levant
The research reveals that Neanderthals and Homo sapiens coexisted and shared aspects of daily life, technology, and burial customs. These interactions fostered cultural exchange, social complexity, and behavioral innovations.
Evidence of cannibalism 18,000 years ago
Researchers discovered signs of human remains being manipulated and dissected, indicating cannibalism among Late Ice Age societies in Central Europe. The findings suggest that cannibalism may have occurred due to conflicts over resources or territories, rather than necessity.
Ancient artifacts unearthed in Iraq shed light on hidden history of Mesopotamia
Researchers have uncovered clay tablets with ancient cuneiform writing, game boards, and large structural remains at the ancient Mesopotamian site of Kurd Qaburstan in Iraq. The study sheds new light on literacy, urban development, and social inequality in this Middle Bronze Age city.
New strontium isotope map of Sub-Saharan Africa is a powerful tool for archaeology, forensics, and wildlife conservation
A new map reveals unique 'geologic fingerprints' across most of the African continent, enabling researchers to match artifacts and remains with their likely region of origin. The tool is particularly valuable for understanding human migration patterns, modern wildlife trafficking, and the history of the transatlantic slave trade.
Butchered bones suggest violent ‘othering’ of enemies in Bronze Age Britain
Archaeologists have found evidence of mass violence and cannibalism at the Early Bronze Age site of Charterhouse Warren in England. The discovery of over 3,000 human bones suggests that the people were massacred, butchered, and partly consumed by enemies to dehumanize them.
New study reveals unique insights into the life and death of Stone Age individuals from modern-day Ukraine
Researchers analyzed human remains from a settlement site in Kosenivka, Ukraine, providing insights into the lives of ancient people. The study found that meat made up less than 10% of their diets, with plant-based foods being the primary source of nutrition.
A complex structure created by Neanderthals discovered in Gibraltar
A team of researchers from over 5 countries found a Neanderthal structure in Vanguard Cave, Gibraltar, that matches theoretical studies on anoxic heating. The discovery suggests Neanderthals had advanced cognitive abilities, including organization and practice to extract resin.
Bones from Tudor Mary Rose shipwreck suggest handedness might affect collarbone chemistry
A study of human skeletal remains from the Tudor warship Mary Rose reveals that handedness may influence clavicle bone chemistry as people age. The analysis found increased mineral content and decreased protein content in right clavicles compared to left, suggesting repeated stress on the right side during activities like sailing.
Change in the law could help families of missing persons
A new law change proposal aims to provide families of missing persons with an opportunity for closure through burial, rather than cremation. The proposal, backed by expert research, would require DNA sampling before burial to confirm identity and enable family members to make decisions about the body.
UNH helps community document skeletal remains found on historic ‘poor farm’
Researchers from UNH's Forensic Anthropology Lab worked with town officials to investigate and document the remains, which showed signs of hardship and health issues. The reburial ceremony marked a rare opportunity for closure and respect for the individuals buried in hasty unmarked graves.
Scientists turn to human skeletons to explore origins of horseback riding
Researchers found that horseback riding can subtly alter the shape of the hip joint, but these changes are not definitive proof of horse domestication. Human remains from various time periods show similar skeletal changes due to other activities, casting doubt on the Kurgan hypothesis.
Study: Proteins in tooth enamel offer window into human wellness
The study found a close correspondence between high levels of stress and disease in Indigenous populations and elevated immunoglobulins and C-reactive protein in their teeth. This new method provides a record of a person's health status from birth to early adulthood, offering valuable insights into past human experiences.
Research reveals reality of Ice Age teen puberty
Researchers analyzed ancient human bones to assess puberty stages in 13 Ice Age teens, ages 10-20. Most entered puberty at 13.5 and reached adulthood between 17-22 years old.
New study questions the theory of a violent invasion of the Iberian Peninsula in the Late Prehistory
Researchers challenge traditional theory that warrior groups with Steppe genetic component violently replaced local population. They propose alternative scenario where groups with Steppe ancestry mixed with demographically weakened locals.
Study: Among Viking societies, Norway was much more violent than Denmark
A study published in Journal of Anthropological Archaeology reveals that interpersonal violence was more common in Norway, with higher rates of trauma on skeletons and the presence of weaponry. In contrast, Denmark experienced more controlled violence linked to official executions.
Elite grave of pre-Mongol period uncovered in Mongolia
A team of archaeologists uncovered an elite grave in Dornod Province, Mongolia, dating back to the pre-Mongol period. The find provides crucial insights into local communities' networks and organization during a period marked by post-imperial destabilization and intense political competition.
Fossil hotspots in Africa obscure a more complete picture of human evolution
Researchers at George Washington University found that fossil hotspots in eastern Africa, such as the East African Rift System, bias our understanding of human evolution due to their limited geographic representation. The study suggests that scientists must take this bias into account when interpreting early human history and recommend...
Smallest arm bone in human fossil record sheds light on the dawn of Homo floresiensis
A new study has discovered the world's smallest adult arm bone, dating back 700,000 years, which provides crucial evidence on the evolution of Homo floresiensis. The fossil, found at Mata Menge in Indonesia, suggests that early humans were even smaller than previously thought.
'Screaming Woman' mummy may have died in agony 3,500 years ago
Researchers found the woman was embalmed with costly imported ingredients, contradicting traditional beliefs about mummification. The study also revealed she suffered from arthritis and had a unique facial expression that may be attributed to a cadaveric spasm caused by intense pain.
UMA scientists find a natural quicksand trap dated to more than one million years ago in the ‘elephant graveyard’ of Orce
Scientists at the University of Malaga have uncovered a natural quicksand trap in the 'elephant graveyard' of Orce, dated to over 1.4 million years ago. The discovery provides insights into human presence in Western Europe and competition with large carrion hyenas for meat resources.
Ancient Syrian diets resembled the modern “Mediterranean diet”
Researchers analyzed ancient plant and animal remains to study historic food chains in ancient Syria. The analysis revealed a diet rich in grains, olives, grapes and dairy products, similar to the modern Mediterranean diet.
More plants on the menu of ancient hunter-gatherers
A recent study reveals that ancient hunter-gatherers in Morocco consumed a significant amount of plant foods, including Mediterranean species, which predates the advent of agriculture in the region. This finding has significant implications for our understanding of human evolution and subsistence strategies.
Humans occupied a lava tube in Saudi Arabia for thousands of years
A recent study reveals that humans inhabited a lava tube in northern Saudi Arabia for thousands of years, with evidence of repeated occupation and a transition to oasis agriculture. The site provides valuable insights into the history of human settlement in the region.
Study reveals evidence of violence at a time of crisis in ancient Peru
Researchers analyzed skeletal remains from a burial ground dating from the period 500-400 BCE, revealing signs of material poverty and interpersonal violence. The study found that 80% of adults and adolescents died from inflicted traumatic injuries, with some displaying both perimortem and antemortem trauma.
New archive of ancient human brains challenges misconceptions of soft tissue preservation
A new study has compiled a global archive of preserved human brains, challenging the notion that brain preservation is extremely rare. The archive reveals that nervous tissues persist in much greater abundances than traditionally thought, with many brains up to 12,000 years old and found in diverse environments.