[Age estimation based on sternal rib ends changes in Bosnian male population]

Area of Science:

• Forensic anthropology
• Bioarchaeology
• Human osteology

Context:

• Age estimation from skeletal remains is crucial in forensic investigations, particularly for unidentified individuals.
• The Iscan et al. rib phase analysis method, developed for American populations, is widely used but requires population-specific validation.
• Exhumed remains from the recent Bosnian War present a unique dataset for testing and adapting established forensic methods.

Purpose:

• To evaluate the applicability of the Iscan et al. rib phase analysis method for age estimation in the Bosnian male population.
• To develop population-specific adjusted age ranges for each phase of rib maturation.
• To identify potential modifications needed for accurate age assessment in this demographic.

Summary:

• This study analyzed rib samples from 410 identified Bosnian males, utilizing the 3rd, 4th, 5th, or 6th rib.
• Adjusted age ranges for each phase were established for the Bosnian male population.
• Findings indicate that Bosnians generally reach and complete phases 1-7 slightly later than Americans, while phases 7 and 8 are completed earlier.

Impact:

• Provides crucial population-specific data for the Iscan rib phase analysis method, enhancing its accuracy for Bosnian skeletal remains.
• Aids forensic anthropologists in more precise age estimation of unidentified individuals from the Bosnian conflict.
• Contributes to the broader understanding of skeletal maturation variations across different populations globally.