Mary Anne Tafuri | Università degli Studi "La Sapienza" di Roma (original) (raw)

Papers by Mary Anne Tafuri

XLVII Riunione Scientifica Istituto Italiano di Preistoria e Protostoria, 2012

This book presents the results of the archaeological activities and specialistic studies carried ... more This book presents the results of the archaeological activities and specialistic studies carried out at the site of Abu Tbeirah (Nasiriyah, Province of Dhi Qar, southern Iraq) by the Iraqi-Italian joint mission of the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage and of Sapienza, led by F. D’Agostino and L. Romano (Dipartimento – Istituto Italiano di Studi Orientali). In the volume the accomplishments of the first seven campaigns (2011-2016) are introduced together with an assessment of the palaeo-environment and landscape surrounding the site. After an introduction to the reasons that led to start the archaeological activities in Abu Tbeirah, written by HE Dr A. Al-Hamdani, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Iraq, the diggings in the south-eastern Area 1 are presented (the cemetery and the other activities identified immediately under the top-soil and the last phase of Building A). A preliminary assessment on the Early-Dynastic III/Akkadian Transition pottery horizon (2450-2150 BC) is presented as well. At the same time, the multifaceted analyses and studies, carried out on Abu Tbeirah’s site and findings, are included in the volume

International Journal of Paleopathology, 2021

OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate parasitic infection in Italy during the Roman period (27... more OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate parasitic infection in Italy during the Roman period (27 BCE-476 CE) and subsequent Longobard (Lombard) period (6th-8th CE). MATERIALS Sediment samples from drains and burials from Roman Imperial-period sites in Italy (Lucus Feroniae, Oplontis, Vacone, and Vagnari), Late Antique and Longobard-period burials at Selvicciola (ca. 4th-8th CE), and Longobard-period burials at Vacone and Povegliano Veronese. METHODS Microscopy was used to identify helminth eggs and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect protozoan antigens. RESULTS Roundworm and whipworm were found in pelvic sediment from Roman-period burials, while roundworm and the protozoan Giardia duodenalis were identified in Roman-period drains. In pelvic sediment from the Late Antique through Longobard periods, roundworm and Taenia tapeworm eggs were identified. CONCLUSIONS Fecal-oral parasites were found throughout Imperial Roman Italy, suggesting that gastrointestinal infections caused a significant disease burden. In the Longobard period we see continuity in transmission of fecal-oral parasites, and the appearance of zoonotic parasites acquired from eating undercooked meat. SIGNIFICANCE A wealth of information exists about certain diseases in the Roman period, but relatively little is known about intestinal parasites in Italy during the Roman and Longobard periods. This is the first evidence for Giardia in Roman period Italy, and for any parasites in the Longobard period in Italy. LIMITATIONS Low egg concentrations and lack of controls for some samples makes it difficult to differentiate true infections from environmental contamination in some cases. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH Continual study of samples from Roman and Longobard period Italy.

The scientific analysis of archaeological remains has the potential to inform us about the diet o... more The scientific analysis of archaeological remains has the potential to inform us about the diet of past individuals. Isotopic analysis gives insight into the daily practice of food consumption and thereby diet's relationship to individual, familial, and cultural organisation. Paleodietary reconstruction using light stable isotopes is based on the principle that "you are what you eat" - that molecules consumed as food are incorporated into the consumer's body tissues ant therefore that a chemical signal passing either unchanged or altered in a quantifiable fashion from food into the body can provide dietary information

Burials, Migration and Identity in the Ancient Sahara and Beyond, 2019

The Fuegians, extinct inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, were an exemplary case of a cold-adapted p... more The Fuegians, extinct inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, were an exemplary case of a cold-adapted population capable of living in extreme weather conditions without any adequate clothing, however the mechanisms of their extraordinary resistance to cold remain enigmatic. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a crucial role in this kind of adaptation besides having a protective role on the detrimental effect of low temperatures on bone structure. Skeletal remains of 12 adult Fuegians were analyzed for bone mineral density and structure. We show that, despite the unfavorable climate, bone mineral density of Fuegians was close to that seen in BAT-expressing modern humans of temperate zones. Furthermore, we report significant differences between Fuegians and other cold-adapted populations in the frequency of the Homeobox protein Hox-C4 (HOXC4) rs190771160 variant, a gene involved in BAT differentiation, whose identified variant is predicted to upregulate HOXC4 expression. Greater BAT accumulati...

Data in Brief, 2021

The arrival of the Longobards in Italy represents one of the most significant periods of the Earl... more The arrival of the Longobards in Italy represents one of the most significant periods of the Early Middle Ages. Such arrival had social and political implications, particularly in relation to cultural admixture with local communities. One way to understand this is through the reconstruction of paleodiet via stable isotope analysis. So far, the subsistence strategy of this population in central Italy remains poorly explored. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analyses are presented here on a total of 19 human bone collagen samples from the cemetery of Castel Trosino. This isotopic investigation contributes to the dietary reconstruction of Early Medieval populations in Italy, providing a crucial isotopic dataset for an area still poorly explored.

Environmental Archaeology, 2021

Although the amount of data on the Italian Copper Age has increased significantly in the last dec... more Although the amount of data on the Italian Copper Age has increased significantly in the last decades, little is known about the relationship between humans and the environment. Material culture su...

European Journal of Radiology, 2020

Scientific Reports, 2019

Because Africa's climate hampers DNA preservation, knowledge of its genetic variability is mainly... more Because Africa's climate hampers DNA preservation, knowledge of its genetic variability is mainly restricted to modern samples, even though population genetics dynamics and back-migrations from Eurasia may have modified haplotype frequencies, masking ancient genetic scenarios. Thanks to improved methodologies, ancient genetic data for the African continent are now increasingly available, starting to fill in the gap. Here we present newly obtained mitochondrial genomes from two ~7000-yearold individuals from Takarkori rockshelter, Libya, representing the earliest and first genetic data for the Sahara region. These individuals carry a novel mutation motif linked to the haplogroup N root. Our result demonstrates the presence of an ancestral lineage of the N haplogroup in the Holocene "Green Sahara", associated to a Middle Pastoral (Neolithic) context. Fossil remains attest to the presence of Anatomically Modern Humans (AMH) in the Near East around 130-100 kilo annum (ka), but their decisive spread from Africa all over the world seems to be the result of a migration that occurred after 70 ka 1-3. African genetic variability is well known only for current times, but local population genetics dynamics and back-migrations from Eurasia could have modified haplotype frequencies, thereby masking ancient genetic scenarios 4-7. Several variables, such as temperature, pH and salinity, influence molecular degradation 8,9 and environmental conditions in hot and arid regions of Africa do not favour DNA preservation. For these reasons, only in the last years, thanks to methodological improvements in the ancient DNA field, genetic data from ancient human samples have been obtained for the African continent 10-16. Here we present the earliest and first genetic data from the Saharan region and contextualize them into the mitochondrial phylogeny, in order to enhance the understanding of past African genetic variability and human lineage evolution and dispersal. The analysed material comes from Takarkori rockshelter in the southern Tadrart Acacus massif of Libya's central Sahara (Fig. S1). The rockshelter's thick stratigraphy spans several millennia of the Holocene and documents the transition from hunting and gathering to pastoralism 17. Fifteen burials mostly referred to the Early and Middle Pastoral (Neolithic) date to between ~8.9 and ~4.8 ka. Located in a recessed area of the shelter, these burials were exclusively of women of reproductive age, children and juveniles. Strontium isotope analysis revealed all have the same local geographic origin. These patterns suggest a kinship system based on matrilineal descent with repeated use of the rockshelter as deathplace by early pastoral communities 18. The DNA analysis focuses on two individuals of Middle Pastoral age, who present signs of natural mummification: TK RS H1 and TK RS H9 (Fig. 1). The samples are directly radiocarbon dated to 6090 ± 60 BP (7.1-6.7 ka; 7159-6797 calBP, 95.4% probability) and 5600 ± 70 BP (6.5-6.2 ka; 6547-6280 calBP, 95.4% probability) respectively (Table S1). Both belong to adult females 18. We extracted DNA from several bone and skin samples (Table S2) and performed a capture enrichment for the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA).

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 2018

Abstract In this article we evaluate the isotopic variability in δ13C and δ15N values of diets am... more Abstract In this article we evaluate the isotopic variability in δ13C and δ15N values of diets among maritime hunter-gatherers of the Beagle Channel (Southern Argentina). A system with two end members –marine and terrestrial resources– is not enough to describe populations with diversified subsistence strategies. Moreover, these marine hunter-gatherers are characterized as highly mobile groups whose foraging ranges comprised not only nearshore areas, but also offshore spaces. As a first step to distinguish the diversity of prey choices during the Late Holocene, and to improve the accuracy of paleodietary interpretations, we conducted stable isotope analyses on zooarchaeological collections and modern samples of shellfish and plants. We observed that δ13C and δ15N values of aquatic animals are more clustered than expected in comparison to modern ecological parameters. Terrestrial prey, such as the guanaco, showed considerable isotopic dispersion in both carbon and nitrogen. While zooarchaeological studies have identified foraging activities in offshore spaces, stable isotope analyses should use different criteria to characterize long-term dietary patterns. With this local isotopic frame of reference, we re-examined δ13Ccollagen and δ15Ncollagen measurements of seven adult individuals from the Beagle Channel. Most individuals had marine diets complemented with resources more depleted in 13C and 15N than aquatic prey. While previous interpretations stated that the complementary staple was terrestrial protein, we suggest consumption of shellfish as another possibility. Finally, plants should be reconsidered as a source depleted both in 13C and 15N for mixing models, when typically underestimated in paleodiets from subpolar environments.

International journal of paleopathology, Jan 20, 2018

An examination of an adult male buried from the post-classical necropolis of La Selvicciola (Vite... more An examination of an adult male buried from the post-classical necropolis of La Selvicciola (Viterbo, Latium, Italy; 4-6 centuries AD) revealed a series of skeletal lesions. The lesions, both proliferative and lytic, ranging in size from small (around 0.01 mm) to extensive (up to 16.00 mm) pits, occurred at multiple sites. A holistic approach assessed lesion type, frequency and location in a differential diagnosis, which included myeloma, metastatic carcinoma, tuberculosis, leukemia, osteomyelitis, and mycoses. It was concluded that a mycosis, specifically Cryptococcosis, was the most likely cause of these lesions. Both macroscopic analyses and X-ray scans support our diagnosis. We also provide a methodological scheme as a model for examining unknown lesion patterns.

Journal of anthropological sciences = Rivista di antropologia : JASS, Jan 10, 2018

The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese dates from the 6th to the 8th centuries AD. Among... more The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese dates from the 6th to the 8th centuries AD. Among the 164 tombs excavated, the skeleton of an older male shows a well-healed amputated right forearm. The orientation of the forearm fracture suggests an angled cut by a single blow. Reasons why a forearm might be amputated include combat, medical intervention, and judicial punishment. As with other amputation cases reported in literature, this one exhibits both healing and osteoblastic response. We argue that the forelimb stump morphology suggests the use of a prosthesis. Moreover, dental modification of RI2 shows considerable wear and smoothing of the occlusal surface, which points to dental use in attaching the prosthesis to the limb. Other indications of how this individual adjusted to his amputated condition includes a slight change in the orientation of the right glenoid fossa surface, and thinning of right humeral cortical bone. This is a remarkable example in which an older male s...

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 2016

Reports is aimed at archaeologists and scientists engaged with the application of scientific tech... more Reports is aimed at archaeologists and scientists engaged with the application of scientific techniques and methodologies to all areas of archaeology. The journal focuses on the results of the application of scientific methods to archaeological problems and debates of wide interest. It provides a forum for reviews and scientific debate of issues in scientific archaeology and their impact in the wider subject. Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports publishes papers of excellent archaeological science. Case studies, reviews, and short papers are welcomed where an established or new scientific technique sheds light on archaeological questions and debates. The research must be demonstrably contextualised within national and/or international contexts. The application of analytical techniques must be underpinned by clear archaeological or methodological research questions and set within established and/or developing research frameworks. Submission of papers focused around the analysis of single or small numbers/groups of objects is strongly discouraged, unless of exceptional quality and international significance. Datasets must be statistically robust.

XLVII Riunione Scientifica Istituto Italiano di Preistoria e Protostoria, 2012

This book presents the results of the archaeological activities and specialistic studies carried ... more This book presents the results of the archaeological activities and specialistic studies carried out at the site of Abu Tbeirah (Nasiriyah, Province of Dhi Qar, southern Iraq) by the Iraqi-Italian joint mission of the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage and of Sapienza, led by F. D’Agostino and L. Romano (Dipartimento – Istituto Italiano di Studi Orientali). In the volume the accomplishments of the first seven campaigns (2011-2016) are introduced together with an assessment of the palaeo-environment and landscape surrounding the site. After an introduction to the reasons that led to start the archaeological activities in Abu Tbeirah, written by HE Dr A. Al-Hamdani, Minister of Culture of the Republic of Iraq, the diggings in the south-eastern Area 1 are presented (the cemetery and the other activities identified immediately under the top-soil and the last phase of Building A). A preliminary assessment on the Early-Dynastic III/Akkadian Transition pottery horizon (2450-2150 BC) is presented as well. At the same time, the multifaceted analyses and studies, carried out on Abu Tbeirah’s site and findings, are included in the volume

International Journal of Paleopathology, 2021

OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate parasitic infection in Italy during the Roman period (27... more OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate parasitic infection in Italy during the Roman period (27 BCE-476 CE) and subsequent Longobard (Lombard) period (6th-8th CE). MATERIALS Sediment samples from drains and burials from Roman Imperial-period sites in Italy (Lucus Feroniae, Oplontis, Vacone, and Vagnari), Late Antique and Longobard-period burials at Selvicciola (ca. 4th-8th CE), and Longobard-period burials at Vacone and Povegliano Veronese. METHODS Microscopy was used to identify helminth eggs and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to detect protozoan antigens. RESULTS Roundworm and whipworm were found in pelvic sediment from Roman-period burials, while roundworm and the protozoan Giardia duodenalis were identified in Roman-period drains. In pelvic sediment from the Late Antique through Longobard periods, roundworm and Taenia tapeworm eggs were identified. CONCLUSIONS Fecal-oral parasites were found throughout Imperial Roman Italy, suggesting that gastrointestinal infections caused a significant disease burden. In the Longobard period we see continuity in transmission of fecal-oral parasites, and the appearance of zoonotic parasites acquired from eating undercooked meat. SIGNIFICANCE A wealth of information exists about certain diseases in the Roman period, but relatively little is known about intestinal parasites in Italy during the Roman and Longobard periods. This is the first evidence for Giardia in Roman period Italy, and for any parasites in the Longobard period in Italy. LIMITATIONS Low egg concentrations and lack of controls for some samples makes it difficult to differentiate true infections from environmental contamination in some cases. SUGGESTIONS FOR FUTURE RESEARCH Continual study of samples from Roman and Longobard period Italy.

The scientific analysis of archaeological remains has the potential to inform us about the diet o... more The scientific analysis of archaeological remains has the potential to inform us about the diet of past individuals. Isotopic analysis gives insight into the daily practice of food consumption and thereby diet's relationship to individual, familial, and cultural organisation. Paleodietary reconstruction using light stable isotopes is based on the principle that "you are what you eat" - that molecules consumed as food are incorporated into the consumer's body tissues ant therefore that a chemical signal passing either unchanged or altered in a quantifiable fashion from food into the body can provide dietary information

Burials, Migration and Identity in the Ancient Sahara and Beyond, 2019

The Fuegians, extinct inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, were an exemplary case of a cold-adapted p... more The Fuegians, extinct inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, were an exemplary case of a cold-adapted population capable of living in extreme weather conditions without any adequate clothing, however the mechanisms of their extraordinary resistance to cold remain enigmatic. Brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a crucial role in this kind of adaptation besides having a protective role on the detrimental effect of low temperatures on bone structure. Skeletal remains of 12 adult Fuegians were analyzed for bone mineral density and structure. We show that, despite the unfavorable climate, bone mineral density of Fuegians was close to that seen in BAT-expressing modern humans of temperate zones. Furthermore, we report significant differences between Fuegians and other cold-adapted populations in the frequency of the Homeobox protein Hox-C4 (HOXC4) rs190771160 variant, a gene involved in BAT differentiation, whose identified variant is predicted to upregulate HOXC4 expression. Greater BAT accumulati...

Data in Brief, 2021

The arrival of the Longobards in Italy represents one of the most significant periods of the Earl... more The arrival of the Longobards in Italy represents one of the most significant periods of the Early Middle Ages. Such arrival had social and political implications, particularly in relation to cultural admixture with local communities. One way to understand this is through the reconstruction of paleodiet via stable isotope analysis. So far, the subsistence strategy of this population in central Italy remains poorly explored. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analyses are presented here on a total of 19 human bone collagen samples from the cemetery of Castel Trosino. This isotopic investigation contributes to the dietary reconstruction of Early Medieval populations in Italy, providing a crucial isotopic dataset for an area still poorly explored.

Environmental Archaeology, 2021

Although the amount of data on the Italian Copper Age has increased significantly in the last dec... more Although the amount of data on the Italian Copper Age has increased significantly in the last decades, little is known about the relationship between humans and the environment. Material culture su...

European Journal of Radiology, 2020

Scientific Reports, 2019

Because Africa's climate hampers DNA preservation, knowledge of its genetic variability is mainly... more Because Africa's climate hampers DNA preservation, knowledge of its genetic variability is mainly restricted to modern samples, even though population genetics dynamics and back-migrations from Eurasia may have modified haplotype frequencies, masking ancient genetic scenarios. Thanks to improved methodologies, ancient genetic data for the African continent are now increasingly available, starting to fill in the gap. Here we present newly obtained mitochondrial genomes from two ~7000-yearold individuals from Takarkori rockshelter, Libya, representing the earliest and first genetic data for the Sahara region. These individuals carry a novel mutation motif linked to the haplogroup N root. Our result demonstrates the presence of an ancestral lineage of the N haplogroup in the Holocene "Green Sahara", associated to a Middle Pastoral (Neolithic) context. Fossil remains attest to the presence of Anatomically Modern Humans (AMH) in the Near East around 130-100 kilo annum (ka), but their decisive spread from Africa all over the world seems to be the result of a migration that occurred after 70 ka 1-3. African genetic variability is well known only for current times, but local population genetics dynamics and back-migrations from Eurasia could have modified haplotype frequencies, thereby masking ancient genetic scenarios 4-7. Several variables, such as temperature, pH and salinity, influence molecular degradation 8,9 and environmental conditions in hot and arid regions of Africa do not favour DNA preservation. For these reasons, only in the last years, thanks to methodological improvements in the ancient DNA field, genetic data from ancient human samples have been obtained for the African continent 10-16. Here we present the earliest and first genetic data from the Saharan region and contextualize them into the mitochondrial phylogeny, in order to enhance the understanding of past African genetic variability and human lineage evolution and dispersal. The analysed material comes from Takarkori rockshelter in the southern Tadrart Acacus massif of Libya's central Sahara (Fig. S1). The rockshelter's thick stratigraphy spans several millennia of the Holocene and documents the transition from hunting and gathering to pastoralism 17. Fifteen burials mostly referred to the Early and Middle Pastoral (Neolithic) date to between ~8.9 and ~4.8 ka. Located in a recessed area of the shelter, these burials were exclusively of women of reproductive age, children and juveniles. Strontium isotope analysis revealed all have the same local geographic origin. These patterns suggest a kinship system based on matrilineal descent with repeated use of the rockshelter as deathplace by early pastoral communities 18. The DNA analysis focuses on two individuals of Middle Pastoral age, who present signs of natural mummification: TK RS H1 and TK RS H9 (Fig. 1). The samples are directly radiocarbon dated to 6090 ± 60 BP (7.1-6.7 ka; 7159-6797 calBP, 95.4% probability) and 5600 ± 70 BP (6.5-6.2 ka; 6547-6280 calBP, 95.4% probability) respectively (Table S1). Both belong to adult females 18. We extracted DNA from several bone and skin samples (Table S2) and performed a capture enrichment for the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA).

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 2018

Abstract In this article we evaluate the isotopic variability in δ13C and δ15N values of diets am... more Abstract In this article we evaluate the isotopic variability in δ13C and δ15N values of diets among maritime hunter-gatherers of the Beagle Channel (Southern Argentina). A system with two end members –marine and terrestrial resources– is not enough to describe populations with diversified subsistence strategies. Moreover, these marine hunter-gatherers are characterized as highly mobile groups whose foraging ranges comprised not only nearshore areas, but also offshore spaces. As a first step to distinguish the diversity of prey choices during the Late Holocene, and to improve the accuracy of paleodietary interpretations, we conducted stable isotope analyses on zooarchaeological collections and modern samples of shellfish and plants. We observed that δ13C and δ15N values of aquatic animals are more clustered than expected in comparison to modern ecological parameters. Terrestrial prey, such as the guanaco, showed considerable isotopic dispersion in both carbon and nitrogen. While zooarchaeological studies have identified foraging activities in offshore spaces, stable isotope analyses should use different criteria to characterize long-term dietary patterns. With this local isotopic frame of reference, we re-examined δ13Ccollagen and δ15Ncollagen measurements of seven adult individuals from the Beagle Channel. Most individuals had marine diets complemented with resources more depleted in 13C and 15N than aquatic prey. While previous interpretations stated that the complementary staple was terrestrial protein, we suggest consumption of shellfish as another possibility. Finally, plants should be reconsidered as a source depleted both in 13C and 15N for mixing models, when typically underestimated in paleodiets from subpolar environments.

International journal of paleopathology, Jan 20, 2018

An examination of an adult male buried from the post-classical necropolis of La Selvicciola (Vite... more An examination of an adult male buried from the post-classical necropolis of La Selvicciola (Viterbo, Latium, Italy; 4-6 centuries AD) revealed a series of skeletal lesions. The lesions, both proliferative and lytic, ranging in size from small (around 0.01 mm) to extensive (up to 16.00 mm) pits, occurred at multiple sites. A holistic approach assessed lesion type, frequency and location in a differential diagnosis, which included myeloma, metastatic carcinoma, tuberculosis, leukemia, osteomyelitis, and mycoses. It was concluded that a mycosis, specifically Cryptococcosis, was the most likely cause of these lesions. Both macroscopic analyses and X-ray scans support our diagnosis. We also provide a methodological scheme as a model for examining unknown lesion patterns.

Journal of anthropological sciences = Rivista di antropologia : JASS, Jan 10, 2018

The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese dates from the 6th to the 8th centuries AD. Among... more The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese dates from the 6th to the 8th centuries AD. Among the 164 tombs excavated, the skeleton of an older male shows a well-healed amputated right forearm. The orientation of the forearm fracture suggests an angled cut by a single blow. Reasons why a forearm might be amputated include combat, medical intervention, and judicial punishment. As with other amputation cases reported in literature, this one exhibits both healing and osteoblastic response. We argue that the forelimb stump morphology suggests the use of a prosthesis. Moreover, dental modification of RI2 shows considerable wear and smoothing of the occlusal surface, which points to dental use in attaching the prosthesis to the limb. Other indications of how this individual adjusted to his amputated condition includes a slight change in the orientation of the right glenoid fossa surface, and thinning of right humeral cortical bone. This is a remarkable example in which an older male s...

Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, 2016

Reports is aimed at archaeologists and scientists engaged with the application of scientific tech... more Reports is aimed at archaeologists and scientists engaged with the application of scientific techniques and methodologies to all areas of archaeology. The journal focuses on the results of the application of scientific methods to archaeological problems and debates of wide interest. It provides a forum for reviews and scientific debate of issues in scientific archaeology and their impact in the wider subject. Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports publishes papers of excellent archaeological science. Case studies, reviews, and short papers are welcomed where an established or new scientific technique sheds light on archaeological questions and debates. The research must be demonstrably contextualised within national and/or international contexts. The application of analytical techniques must be underpinned by clear archaeological or methodological research questions and set within established and/or developing research frameworks. Submission of papers focused around the analysis of single or small numbers/groups of objects is strongly discouraged, unless of exceptional quality and international significance. Datasets must be statistically robust.

Dairying practices in prehistoric Italy may have differed between time periods and regions. Here ... more Dairying practices in prehistoric Italy may have differed between time periods and regions. Here we aim at:

- Tracing milk consumption in two Middle Bronze Age Italian populations

- Detecting any difference in the animal species raised

A strontium ratios analysis (87Sr/86Sr) was conducted to explore mobility and residence patterns ... more A strontium ratios analysis (87Sr/86Sr) was conducted to explore mobility and residence patterns of 25 individuals buried at the Lombard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese (VR, IT VI-VIII century AD). The chronological and geographical location of Povegliano Veronese plays a key role, as this site represents an important destination in post-classical Italy. Strontium isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr ) of skeletal remains is considered a reliable method to assess residential mobility and origin of archaeological communities because of the strong relation between the chemical composition of bone/teeth and migration events.

The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese located in Veneto; Northern Italy was discovered ... more The Longobard necropolis of Povegliano Veronese located in Veneto; Northern Italy was discovered in 1985. Archaeological evidence tells us the necropolis was used during the VI-VIII centuries AD. Over 240 skeletons have been recovered from the necropolis. Age and sex for each burial has been previously reported (Micarelli 2015). The skeleton of an older Longobard male (aged 40-50 years), an individual of the first generation of Longobards arrived at Povegliano Veronese, shows a unique well-healed amputated right forearm. The focus of this presentation is to discuss the trauma and healing of his right forelimb. The orientation of the forearm fracture suggests an angled cut to the ulna and radius by a single blow. There are several reasons why a forearm from this cultural period might be amputated, loss due to fighting and/or loss due to judicial punishment. As with other amputation cases cited in the bio-archaeological literature (Brothwell 1963, Mays 1996), this example exhibits both healing of the fracture and osteophytic growth specific to biomechanical loading. We argue that the osteophytes of this individual comes from the use of a prosthesis. The healing includes a semi-fusion (ankyloses) of the forearm bones and well-healed end-caps for both bones. Additionally, dental modification of right upper second incisor tooth shows considerable wear and smoothing of the occlusal surface. We suggest that this dental defect is the result of tying down a prosthetic device used to protect the forearm stump. Other indications of how this individual adjusted to his amputated condition includes a slight change in the orientation of the right glenoid fossa surface, and the thinning of cortical bone of the right humerus. In conclusion, this case shows us a remarkable situation by which an older male not only survived an amputated limb in a pre-antibiotic era, but also adjusted very well to his condition with the use of a culturally derived device.