Enhancing the contemporary human and water isotope reference database for the Netherlands: New insights from Sr-O-C-N-H isotope data

• Published in: iScience Vol. 27; no. 4; p. 109561
• Main Authors: Ammer, Saskia T.M., Routhledge, Nathan, Davies, Gareth R., van Asten, Arian C., Verdegaal-Warmerdam, Suzan J.A., Kootker, Lisette M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 19.04.2024
• Subjects: structures; structures
• ISSN: 2589-0042; 2589-0042
• DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109561

The determination of an individual’s geographic origin is an essential aspect of forensic investigations. When primary identifiers cannot be used to make a positive identification, isotope analysis can be utilized to provide new leads. Modern reference data are essential for accurate interpretation of human isotopic data in terms of diet and origin. This article presents Sr-O-C-N-H isotope data of modern individuals (hair, dental enamel, and dentine collagen) and drinking water from the Netherlands. The δ15N values of human hair fall within the range of values observed worldwide and cannot be utilized to differentiate from other countries. Distinct disparities in the hair δ13C are evident between European countries and other regions, making it possible to exclude the Netherlands as a region of origin. Comparing Dutch dental isotope data to those of other nations has proven difficult due to the limited availability of reference data. The same limitation applies to tap water δ2H data. [Display omitted] •Sr-O-C-N-H isotope data of modern humans and drinking water from the Netherlands•δ15N values of human hair cannot be utilized to differentiate from other countries•Variations in hair δ13C enable the exclusion the Netherlands as a region of origin•Limited availability of reference data makes interpretation of data difficult structures