Numerous datasets were collected and analyzed to address our research objectives. We created 3D models with surface scanners and employed confocal microscopy for dental microwear texture analysis. However, we also used more traditional methods like macrophotography, optical light microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy to assess dental wear patterns.
One reason for applying such a diverse array of methodologies, is that a single method may not provide conclusive results, or the application of more than one method could provide a more detailed interpretation of prehistoric human behaviors (Lozano et al, in review; Willman et al, in review). Another reason to use “traditional” methods alongside “state-of the-art” 3D scanning and confocal microscopy is because the equipment and software associated with these latter methodologies is prohibitively expensive for many researchers and institutions. Thus, using multiple methodologies on the same dataset not only refines interpretations, but also allows one to see what information is potentially lost, gained, or complimentary between studies using different methodologies.
We also explored the utility of Gigapixel-like images for didactic and training purposes. These images are created by focus-stacking and merging of adjacent images into a larger photomosaic. The result of the method is a high-resolution image that observers can “pan and zoom” across to view detailed surfaces.
Our detailed, integrative analyses also revealed interesting findings in our samples. For instance, Chalcolithic human teeth from El Mirador Cave presented cases of dental erosion – chemically-induced wear – which is rarely documented in prehistoric populations, and largely thought to be a contemporary oral health concern. In another case, we found a female-specific pattern of dental wear in a Bronze Age population from southeastern Spain that revealed new insights into divisions of labor related to craft work in this Bronze Age context.
IDENTITIES Project research was presented at several conferences (Willman et al, 2018; Lozano et al, 2019a, b), and two articles are currently in review (Lozano et al, in review; Willman et al, in review). The project has also been promoted through social media, personal and institutional websites, public outreach events, and European Researcher’s Night.
References:
Lozano M, Jiménez-Brobeil S, Willman JC, Sánchez-Barba, LP, Molina D, Rubio A. (in review) Argaric craftswomen: sex-based division of labor in the Bronze Age southeastern Iberia.
Lozano M, Willman JC, Gamarra B, Ceperuelo D, Hernando R. (2019a) Novedades en el estudio de los restos dentales de El Mirador. Pastores y Agricultores de la Prehistoria. Una Mirada Transdisciplinar al Registro Arqueológico de El Mirador (Atapuerca, Burgos). Reunión Científica. IPHES, Tarragona, Spain.
Lozano M, Willman JC, Hernando R, Ceperuelo D. (2019b) Microscopic and virtual approaches to oral pathology: a case study from El Mirador Cave (Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain). 25th Annual Meeting of the European Association of Archaeologists, Bern, Switzerland.
Willman JC, Romero A, Subirà MaE, Lozano M. (2018) Non-alimentary tooth use in European Prehistory. XVIIe Congrès Mondial UISPP – Paris, France.
Willman JC, Lozano M, Hernando R, Vergès JM. (in review) Gigapixel-like imaging strategies for dental anthropology: Applications for scientific communication and training in digital image analysis.
