Assessment of statistical agreement of three techniques for the study of cut marks: 3D digital microscope, laser scanning confocal microscopy and micro ‐photogrammetry

In this study, we analyse 26 experimental cut marks generated with a metal knife. The quantitative and qualitative information registered is analysed by means of standard multivariate statistics and geometric morphometrics to assess the similarities and differences obtained with the different methodologies. Lay description The study of anthropogenic marks on bone surfaces has become fundamental for the interpretation of archaeological sites and prehistoric butchery practices. Cut marks are one of the most common traces used in the identification of prehistoric human practices. Though theoretically cut marks are defined in classic studies as distinctive V‐shaped grooves that appear on the surface of a bone after the removal of meat with the aid of a tool, their correct identification is not easy as cut marks can be mistaken for other nonanthropogenic traces that also appear on bone surfaces. In the last few decades, many criteria for the description and classification of cut marks have been suggested. Different techniques have been recently applied to the study of cut marks but their reliability has never been tested. In this paper, we compare three techniques recently used in the virtual reconstruction and analysis of cut marks in order to assess their resolution and results. These techniques are based on the use of two microscopes – a digital and a laser one – and of a digital camera in order to create 3D models. A total of 26 experimental cut marks generated with a m...
Source: Journal of Microscopy - Category: Laboratory Medicine Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research