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Stable Isotope Analysis of Human Hair and Nail Samples: The Effects of Storage on Samples
Author(s) -
Fraser Isla,
MeierAugenstein Wolfram,
Kalin Robert M.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2007.00607.x
Subject(s) - nail (fastener) , isotope analysis , isotope , mass spectrometry , scalp , isotope ratio mass spectrometry , chemistry , chromatography , materials science , medicine , biology , surgery , metallurgy , ecology , physics , quantum mechanics
When submitting samples for analysis, maintaining sample integrity is essential. Appropriate packaging must be used to prevent damage, contamination or loss of sample. This is particularly important for stable isotope analysis by isotope ratio mass spectrometry as this technique is capable of detecting subtle differences in isotopic composition with great precision. In a novel study, scalp hair and fingernail samples were placed in five different types of packaging, routinely used in forensic laboratories and stored for 6 weeks and 6 months. Samples were subsequently cleaned and submitted for 13 C/ 12 C, 15 N/ 14 N, 2 H/ 1 H and 18 O/ 16 O analysis. Results from 13 C analysis indicate that type of packaging can cause slight changes in 13 C abundance over time. Differences were noted in the 15 N isotope signatures of both hair and nail samples after 6‐week storage, but not after 6 months. This apparent discrepancy could be a result of the packaging not being properly sealed in the 6 weeks study. Fewer differences were noted when analyzing samples for 2 H and 18 O abundance.