[Intraindividual element distribution in the distal femur].
Elemental analysis of archaeological bone is a useful tool for intra- and inter-population research. Possibly an intraindividual elemental analysis could also reveal individual influences from the personal life history. The distal part of an archaeological femur was prepared in 48 samples (6 heights, 4 locations, compact/spongious bone). The elements Ca, P, Pb, Sr and Zn were measured by atomic-absorption-spectrometry and photometry. Statistical tests were used to study similarities and differences. In addition, a sample was taken from the middle of the diaphysis to compare these results with the concentrations of the distal part of the femur. The results show a specific distribution for each element. Similarities were only found between Ca and P. A likely interpretation of intraindividual element data is not yet possible due to the lack of the knowledge of the intraindividual element distribution. More intraindividual studies like this one are recommended.
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Institut für Anthropologie, Universität Göttingen.
D000328:Adult; D015519:Bone Density / Q000502:physiology*; D005269:Femur / Q000737:chemistry*; D005858:Germany; D049691:History, Medieval; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010164:Paleopathology; D012016:Reference Values; D013054:Spectrophotometry, Atomic; D014131:Trace Elements / Q000032:analysis / Q000266:history*
D014131:Trace Elements