Low-temperature-induced bone shrinkage: A controlled study using kangaroo femora

Jessica Bertrand, Marc F. Oxenham*

*Corresponding author for this work

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    5 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    The taphonomic effects of weathering and heat-induced transformation of bone have been intensively studied over the last century. These two processes share a common agent of change in the form of bone desiccation. A study was devised to test the hypothesis that significant bone shrinkage could be achieved by prolonged exposure to low (30°C) temperatures. The methodological approach involved placing fresh Eastern Grey Kangaroo long bones (n = 6) in an industrial oven at 30°C for a period of 39 days, with changes monitored every 24 h. Long bones were comprehensively measured to determine the extent of shrinkage during the desiccation process. The results indicated that the long bones displayed statistically significant amounts of shrinkage in all regions, with the majority of change occurring within the first 10 days of the drying period. It is concluded that exposure to a dry environment, at 30°C, can cause desiccation within 24 h in some cases, inducing dimensional changes that could potentially affect the results of a range of osteometric techniques. It is also apparent that the effects of prolonged exposure to low temperatures are similar to heat-induced changes seen in short-term exposure at high temperatures.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)173-181
    Number of pages9
    JournalAustralian Journal of Forensic Sciences
    Volume47
    Issue number2
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 3 Apr 2015

    Fingerprint

    Dive into the research topics of 'Low-temperature-induced bone shrinkage: A controlled study using kangaroo femora'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

    Cite this