Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Genetics
Gunshot residue and brake-pad dust can have overlapping elemental compositions, making them difficult to tell apart with standard testing alone. In a preliminary study, Raman spectroscopy identified differences between the two particle types and could complement existing analysis.
Ancient DNA from dogs buried at Erlitou in China reveals several maternal lineages, including one linked to western Eurasia. The diversity suggests that people and dogs moved between regions as early state society and agriculture developed.
Ancient DNA decays roughly four times faster in the Caribbean than in temperate regions, according to an analysis of more than 300 human samples from 33 archaeological sites. The researchers predict that remains much older than about 5,000 years will be difficult to study, but say much of the Caribbean’s human history remains within reach if well-preserved samples can be identified.
Migration can make populations more similar, but its effect on culture depends on how people adopt common behaviors or beliefs. A simulation found that strong conformity can preserve or increase cultural differences, especially when migration is limited.
