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Formichella G, Soncin S, Lubritto C, Tafuri MA, Fernandes R, Cocozza C. Introducing Isotòpia: A stable isotope database for Classical Antiquity. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0293717. [PMID: 38829878 PMCID: PMC11146721 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
We present Isotòpia, an open-access database compiling over 36,000 stable isotope measurements (δ13C, δ15N, δ18O, δ34S, 87Sr/86Sr, 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb, 208Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/206Pb, and 208Pb/206Pb) on human, animal, and plant bioarchaeological remains dating to Classical Antiquity (approximately 800 BCE - 500 CE). These were recovered from different European regions, particularly from the Mediterranean. Isotòpia provides a comprehensive characterisation of the isotopic data, encompassing various historical, archaeological, biological, and environmental variables. Isotòpia is a resource for meta-analytical research of past human activities and paleoenvironments. The database highlights data gaps in isotopic classical archaeology, such as the limited number of isotopic measurements available for plants and animals, limited number of studies on spatial mobility, and spatial heterogeneity of isotopic research. As such, we emphasise the necessity to address and fill these gaps in order to unlock the reuse potential of this database.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Formichella
- Dipartimento di Biologia Ambientale and Mediterranean bioArchaeological Research Advances (MAReA) Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Silvia Soncin
- Dipartimento di Biologia Ambientale and Mediterranean bioArchaeological Research Advances (MAReA) Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Carmine Lubritto
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali Biologiche e Farmaceutiche (DiSTABiF) and Mediterranean bioArchaeological Research Advances (MAReA) Centre, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
| | - Mary Anne Tafuri
- Dipartimento di Biologia Ambientale and Mediterranean bioArchaeological Research Advances (MAReA) Centre, Sapienza University of Rome, Roma, Italy
| | - Ricardo Fernandes
- Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany
- Faculty of Archaeology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- Arne Faculty of Arts, Masaryk University, Brno-střed, Czech Republic
- Climate Change and History Research Initiative, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States of America
| | - Carlo Cocozza
- Dipartimento di Scienze e Tecnologie Ambientali Biologiche e Farmaceutiche (DiSTABiF) and Mediterranean bioArchaeological Research Advances (MAReA) Centre, Università degli Studi della Campania “Luigi Vanvitelli”, Caserta, Italy
- Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute of Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany
- ArchaeoBioCenter (ABC), Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, München, Germany
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Malis SW, Wilson JA, Zuckerman MK, Osterholtz AJ, Paige J, Miller S, Paraman L, Soren D. Compromised health: Examining growth and health in a late antique Roman infant and child cemetery. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 184:e24925. [PMID: 38487982 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Combining research from infant and child development, public health, anthropology, and history, this research examines the relationship between growth, growth disruption, and skeletal indicators of chronic and/or episodic physiological stress (stress) among juvenile individuals (n = 60) interred at the late antique infant and child cemetery at Poggio Gramignano (PG) (ca. 5th century CE), associated with a rural agricultural community. MATERIALS AND METHODS Growth disruption-evidenced by decreased long bone length compared to dental age-and stress experience-evidenced by skeletal stress indicators-within these individuals are compared to those within juveniles from a comparative sample (n = 66) from two urban Roman-era cemeteries, Villa Rustica (VR) (0-250 CE) and Tragurium City Necropolis (TCN) (0-700 CE). RESULTS Results indicate that individuals from PG had significantly smaller femoral lengths-for-age than those from VR and TCN; however, the frequency of skeletal stress indicators was higher among juveniles from VR and TCN. DISCUSSION These differences in growth and stress experience are likely related to the different biosocial and ecological environments present in these two regions. For the community at PG, internal and external violent conflicts, as well as social, political, and economic turmoil, and subsistence shortages, endemic and epidemic infectious disease, nutritional deficiencies, and inherited or acquired anemia may have synergized to create chronically and/or episodically deleterious conditions for its juveniles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sierra W Malis
- Department of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Jordan A Wilson
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, State College, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Molly Kathleen Zuckerman
- Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, USA
| | - Anna J Osterholtz
- Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, USA
| | - Julianne Paige
- Department of Anthropology, University of Nevada Las Vegas, Reno, Nevada, USA
| | - Shane Miller
- Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures, Mississippi State University, Starkville, Mississippi, USA
| | | | - David Soren
- School of Anthropology, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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Srienc-Ściesiek MT, Richards N, Ladstätter S, Kirchengast S. Evidence of non-adult vitamin C deficiency in three early medieval sites in the Jaun/Podjuna Valley, Carinthia, Austria. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2024; 45:18-29. [PMID: 38520801 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to determine and discuss the prevalence of non-adult scurvy cases from the early medieval Jaun/Podjuna Valley in southern Austria. MATERIALS 86 non-adult individuals were assessed from three early medieval sites. METHODS Morphological characteristics associated with suggestive and probable scurvy were observed macroscopically and under 20-40x magnification. RESULTS A significant relationship between the prevalence of scurvy and age group was observed. Perinates (46%, 6/13) and children (27.5%, 8/28) showed a high prevalence of skeletal features indicating a diagnosis of scurvy, while no cases of scurvy were observed in adolescents and adults. CONCLUSIONS In this Alpine region, scurvy occurred frequently in infants and children. Seasonal fluctuations of diet are discussed as factors triggering scurvy. SIGNIFICANCE This study sheds new light on the prevalence of scurvy in the Alpine region and how the region developed after the fall of the Roman Noricum. It also models ways in which multiple lines of evidence can contribute to the diagnostic process. LIMITATIONS Poor preservation posed a challenge to identifying probable cases of scurvy. Likewise, non-adult remains are difficult to diagnose due to their developing nature and it is not always possible to distinguish between normal bone growth and pathological growth. SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH Future applications of biomolecular studies will help illustrate changes in diet that may have contributed to vitamin deficiencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena T Srienc-Ściesiek
- Austrian Archaeological Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Franz-Klein Gasse 1, Vienna 1190, Austria; Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Djerassipl. 1, Vienna 1030, Austria.
| | - Nina Richards
- Austrian Centre for Digital Humanities and Cultural Heritage, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Bäckerstraße 13, Vienna 1010, Austria
| | - Sabine Ladstätter
- Austrian Archaeological Institute, Austrian Academy of Sciences, Franz-Klein Gasse 1, Vienna 1190, Austria
| | - Sylvia Kirchengast
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Djerassipl. 1, Vienna 1030, Austria
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Olalde I, Carrión P, Mikić I, Rohland N, Mallick S, Lazaridis I, Mah M, Korać M, Golubović S, Petković S, Miladinović-Radmilović N, Vulović D, Alihodžić T, Ash A, Baeta M, Bartík J, Bedić Ž, Bilić M, Bonsall C, Bunčić M, Bužanić D, Carić M, Čataj L, Cvetko M, Drnić I, Dugonjić A, Đukić A, Đukić K, Farkaš Z, Jelínek P, Jovanovic M, Kaić I, Kalafatić H, Krmpotić M, Krznar S, Leleković T, M de Pancorbo M, Matijević V, Milošević Zakić B, Osterholtz AJ, Paige JM, Tresić Pavičić D, Premužić Z, Rajić Šikanjić P, Rapan Papeša A, Paraman L, Sanader M, Radovanović I, Roksandic M, Šefčáková A, Stefanović S, Teschler-Nicola M, Tončinić D, Zagorc B, Callan K, Candilio F, Cheronet O, Fernandes D, Kearns A, Lawson AM, Mandl K, Wagner A, Zalzala F, Zettl A, Tomanović Ž, Keckarević D, Novak M, Harper K, McCormick M, Pinhasi R, Grbić M, Lalueza-Fox C, Reich D. A genetic history of the Balkans from Roman frontier to Slavic migrations. Cell 2023; 186:5472-5485.e9. [PMID: 38065079 PMCID: PMC10752003 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The rise and fall of the Roman Empire was a socio-political process with enormous ramifications for human history. The Middle Danube was a crucial frontier and a crossroads for population and cultural movement. Here, we present genome-wide data from 136 Balkan individuals dated to the 1st millennium CE. Despite extensive militarization and cultural influence, we find little ancestry contribution from peoples of Italic descent. However, we trace a large-scale influx of people of Anatolian ancestry during the Imperial period. Between ∼250 and 550 CE, we detect migrants with ancestry from Central/Northern Europe and the Steppe, confirming that "barbarian" migrations were propelled by ethnically diverse confederations. Following the end of Roman control, we detect the large-scale arrival of individuals who were genetically similar to modern Eastern European Slavic-speaking populations, who contributed 30%-60% of the ancestry of Balkan people, representing one of the largest permanent demographic changes anywhere in Europe during the Migration Period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo Olalde
- BIOMICs Research Group, Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; Ikerbasque-Basque Foundation of Science, Bilbao, Spain; Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Institute of Evolutionary Biology, CSIC-Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Pablo Carrión
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, CSIC-Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Nadin Rohland
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Swapan Mallick
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Iosif Lazaridis
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Matthew Mah
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Abigail Ash
- Department of Archaeology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Miriam Baeta
- BIOMICs Research Group, Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Juraj Bartík
- Slovak National Museum-Archaeological Museum, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Željka Bedić
- Centre for Applied Bioanthropology, Institute for Anthropological Research, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Clive Bonsall
- School of History, Classics and Archaeology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Maja Bunčić
- Archaeological Museum in Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Domagoj Bužanić
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mario Carić
- Centre for Applied Bioanthropology, Institute for Anthropological Research, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Lea Čataj
- Division for Archaeological Heritage, Croatian Conservation Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Mirna Cvetko
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivan Drnić
- Archaeological Museum in Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Ana Đukić
- Archaeological Museum in Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ksenija Đukić
- Center of Bone Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zdeněk Farkaš
- Slovak National Museum-Archaeological Museum, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Pavol Jelínek
- Slovak National Museum-Archaeological Museum, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | | | - Iva Kaić
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Marijana Krmpotić
- Department for Archaeology, Croatian Conservation Institute, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Tino Leleković
- Archaeology Division, Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Marian M de Pancorbo
- BIOMICs Research Group, Department of Zoology and Animal Cell Biology, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Vinka Matijević
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Anna J Osterholtz
- Department of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Cultures, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS, USA
| | - Julianne M Paige
- Department of Anthropology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | | | | | - Petra Rajić Šikanjić
- Centre for Applied Bioanthropology, Institute for Anthropological Research, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | | | - Mirjana Sanader
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Mirjana Roksandic
- Department of Anthropology, University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Alena Šefčáková
- Department of Anthropology, Slovak National Museum-Natural History Museum, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - Sofia Stefanović
- Laboratory for Bioarchaeology, Faculty of Philosophy, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maria Teschler-Nicola
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Department of Anthropology, Natural History Museum Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Domagoj Tončinić
- Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Brina Zagorc
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kim Callan
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Olivia Cheronet
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Fernandes
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Research Centre for Anthropology and Health (CIAS), Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Aisling Kearns
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ann Marie Lawson
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Kirsten Mandl
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Anna Wagner
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fatma Zalzala
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Anna Zettl
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Željko Tomanović
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia; Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | - Mario Novak
- Centre for Applied Bioanthropology, Institute for Anthropological Research, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kyle Harper
- Department of Classics and Letters, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA; Santa Fe Institute, Santa Fe, NM, USA
| | - Michael McCormick
- Department of History, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Max Planck-Harvard Research Center for the Archaeoscience of the Ancient Mediterranean, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Ron Pinhasi
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria; Human Evolution and Archaeological Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Miodrag Grbić
- Faculty of Biology, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia; Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada; Department of Agriculture and Food, Universidad de La Rioja, Logroño, Spain
| | - Carles Lalueza-Fox
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology, CSIC-Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain; Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - David Reich
- Department of Human Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA; Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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Depaermentier ML, Krause-Kyora B, Hajdas I, Kempf M, Kuhn T, Spichtig N, Schwarz PA, Gerling C. Bioarchaeological analyses reveal long-lasting continuity at the periphery of the Late Antique Roman Empire. iScience 2023; 26:107034. [PMID: 37360687 PMCID: PMC10285633 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.107034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Basel-Waisenhaus burial community (Switzerland) has been traditionally interpreted as immigrated Alamans because of the location and dating of the burial ground - despite the typical late Roman funeral practices. To evaluate this hypothesis, multi-isotope and aDNA analyses were conducted on the eleven individuals buried there. The results show that the burial ground was occupied around AD 400 by people belonging largely to one family, whereas isotope and genetic records most probably point toward a regionally organized and indigenous, instead of an immigrated, community. This strengthens the recently advanced assumption that the withdrawal of the Upper Germanic-Rhaetian limes after the "Crisis of the Third Century AD" was not necessarily related to a replacement of the local population by immigrated Alamannic peoples, suggesting a long-lasting continuity of occupation at the Roman periphery at the Upper and High Rhine region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaux L.C. Depaermentier
- Department of Ancient Civilizations, Prehistoric and Early Historic and Provincial Roman Archaeology, Vindonissa Professorship, University of Basel, Petersgraben 51, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ben Krause-Kyora
- Institute of Clinical Molecular Biology, Kiel University, Rosalind-Franklin-Straße 12, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Irka Hajdas
- Laboratory of Ion Beam Physics, ETH Zurich, Otto-Stern-Weg 5 HPK H31, 8093 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael Kempf
- Department of Geography, Physical Geography, Landscape Ecology and Geoinformation, Kiel University, Ludewig-Meyn-Str. 8, 24098 Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuhn
- Aquatic and Isotope Biogeochemistry, Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 30, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Norbert Spichtig
- Archäologische Bodenforschung Basel-Stadt, Petersgraben 11, 4001 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Peter-Andrew Schwarz
- Department of Ancient Civilizations, Prehistoric and Early Historic and Provincial Roman Archaeology, Vindonissa Professorship, University of Basel, Petersgraben 51, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Gerling
- Department of Ancient Civilizations, Prehistoric and Early Historic and Provincial Roman Archaeology, Vindonissa Professorship, University of Basel, Petersgraben 51, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
- Integrative Prehistory and Archaeological Science, Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Basel, Spalenring 145, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
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Haponava V, Kots A, Lucas M, Both M, Roberts P. Medieval and early modern diets in the Polack region of Belarus: A stable isotope perspective. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275758. [PMID: 36206285 PMCID: PMC9543997 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In western and north-western Europe there has been a growing focus on exploring how major economic, political, and social changes during the Medieval period impacted the lived experience of different populations and sectors of society. Stable isotope analysis has proven particularly powerful in this regard, providing direct insights into the long-term diets of individuals and communities. Despite experiencing similarly dramatic social reconfigurations and changes, eastern Europe has, however, received far less attention in this regard. The territory of Belarus has, especially, so far remained a relative blank spot on the bioarchaeological map of Europe, though cities such as Polack emerged rapidly as key nodes within a growing economic and religious network. To gain direct insight into the diets of inhabitants of the Polack region of Belarus in the 11-18th centuries, we applied stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis to bone and dentine collagen from human (n = 143) and animal (n = 105) individuals from the city of Polack and surrounding rural sites. Results indicate a diet based on C3 terrestrial resources, which did not differ between sexes and showed limited variation over time. Contrary to expectations, it appears that animal products were commonly consumed by rural dwellers, but no significant reliance on fish resources or millet consumption is found. In contrast to examples from western Europe, we argue that the diets in the city and the surrounding villages remained broadly similar for the majority of the population, and similar to commoners analysed in Poland and Lithuania, perhaps suggestive of slightly different economic changes operating in this part of the Medieval world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Haponava
- Faculty of Archaeology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
- * E-mail: (VH); (PR)
| | - Aliaksei Kots
- Department of History and Tourism, Polotsk State University, Novopolotsk, Belarus
| | - Mary Lucas
- Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany
| | - Max Both
- Institute of Prehistoric Archaeology, Freie Universitaet, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrick Roberts
- Department of Archaeology, Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany
- isoTROPIC Independent Research Group, Max Planck Institute for Geoanthropology, Jena, Germany
- School of Social Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Brisbane, Australia
- * E-mail: (VH); (PR)
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Varalli A, Moggi-Cecchi J, Goude G. A multi-proxy bioarchaeological approach reveals new trends in Bronze Age diet in Italy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12203. [PMID: 35842420 PMCID: PMC9288517 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15581-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates changes in dietary practices and subsistence strategies in Bronze Age Italy integrating isotopic analyses with archaeobotanical and archaeozoological data. By investigating food habits, we contribute to reconstructing human lifestyles and highlighting possible links with the economic/social organization when the rise of stratified societies and new economic activities affected subsistence practices. Stable isotopes analyses in humans and animals were performed on 6 Italian sites dating from 2300 to 900 cal. BC, followed by a complete review of additional 19 sites, which forms the basis of a diachronic and geographic comparison for Bronze Age Italy. The geographic analysis shows a more varied diet in northern and central Italy, compared to the south. The diachronic analysis highlights the homogeneity of food habits during the Early Bronze Age, contrary to the later phases when an increase in dietary variability and a higher animal protein consumption are revealed. The Middle Bronze Age appears as a pivotal moment in protohistoric societies, a phase of transition. The consumption of different foodstuffs highlights the importance of cultural exchanges, resulting in a sort of “food globalization”, although environmental and climatic fluctuations could also have affected dietary patterns, favoring some crops over others.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Varalli
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Minist Culture, LAMPEA, Aix-en-Provence, France. .,Department of Biology, Laboratory of Anthropology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. .,CaSEs Research Group, Department of Humanities, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jacopo Moggi-Cecchi
- Department of Biology, Laboratory of Anthropology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Gwenaëlle Goude
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, Minist Culture, LAMPEA, Aix-en-Provence, France
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Castells Navarro L, Buckberry J. The prevalence of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in England and Catalonia from the Roman to the post-medieval periods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2022; 37:9-22. [PMID: 35279001 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2022.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluate the prevalence of DISH through time from the Roman to the post-Medieval period in England and Catalonia. MATERIAL 281 individuals from England and 247 from Catalonia were analyzed. METHODS Adult individuals with at least three well-preserved lower thoracic vertebral bodies were analyzed. DISH was assessed considering the early stages of development. Diachronic and geographical dietary shifts were investigated using reported light isotope data, archaeological reports and historical documentation. RESULTS Males and older individuals showed consistently higher prevalence of DISH, however, only the English sample showed a significant difference between males and females in the prevalence of DISH. No significant difference was found in the prevalence of DISH though time (from Roman to post medieval periods) nor across regions (England and Catalonia). CONCLUSION The development of DISH is probably influenced by a combination of factors including increasing age and sex. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first exhaustive analysis of DISH in ancient Catalan populations and the first that considers the early stages of DISH. LIMITATIONS Reduced sample size, particularly in post-medieval samples, as a result of the available excavated samples and the inclusion criteria adopted. FUTURE RESEARCH Include rural, religious and high-status samples in the analysis of DISH. Re-assess the prevalence of DISH in post-medieval populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Castells Navarro
- School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK; Archaeology Department, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QJ, UK.
| | - Jo Buckberry
- School of Archaeological and Forensic Sciences, University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
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9
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Castells Navarro L, Buckberry J, Beaumont J. An isotope signature for diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis? AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2022; 178:312-327. [PMID: 36790671 PMCID: PMC9313887 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) has recurrently been associated with a rich diet (high in protein and higher trophic level foods); however, very few studies have investigated this link using carbon and nitrogen (δ13C and δ15N) stable isotope analysis. This paper explores the relationship between DISH and diet in two Roman urban communities by analyzing individuals with and without DISH. MATERIALS AND METHODS δ13C and δ15N analysis carried out on collagen from 33 rib samples (No DISH: 27; early DISH: 4; DISH: 2) selected from individuals buried at the Romano-British site of Baldock (UK), 41 rib samples (No DISH: 38; early DISH: 3) from individuals from the Catalan Roman site of Santa Caterina (Barcelona, Spain). Additionally, six faunal samples from Baldock and seven from Santa Caterina were analyzed. RESULTS Standardized human isotope data from Santa Caterina show high δ15N probably associated to a diet combining terrestrial resources and freshwater fish. In contrast, isotope results from Baldock suggest a terrestrial-based diet. Individuals with DISH do not show isotopic ratios indicative of rich diet and there is no correlation between stage of DISH development and δ13C and δ15N. CONCLUSION The results of this study suggest that individuals with DISH followed a similar or isotopically similar diet as those individuals without DISH in Baldock and in Santa Caterina and therefore, while DISH may have been influenced by individual's dietary habits, this is not reflected in their isotopic signature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Castells Navarro
- Department of ArchaeologyUniversity of ExeterExeterUK,School of Archaeological and Forensic SciencesUniversity of BradfordBradfordUK
| | - Jo Buckberry
- School of Archaeological and Forensic SciencesUniversity of BradfordBradfordUK
| | - Julia Beaumont
- School of Archaeological and Forensic SciencesUniversity of BradfordBradfordUK
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10
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Quade L, Gowland R. Height and health in Roman and Post-Roman Gaul, a life course approach. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2021; 35:49-60. [PMID: 34656897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2021.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study explores growth and health in Roman (1st-3rd centuries CE) and Post-Roman (4th-7th centuries CE) Gaul, incorporating a life-course approach, to better understand the influence of Roman practices and lifestyles on health, and the impact of cultural change from the Roman to the Post-Roman period. MATERIALS AND METHODS The skeletal remains of 844 individuals were analyzed for non-specific signs of physiological stress, including growth disruption (diaphyseal and adult maximum femur length), dental enamel hypoplastic defects (DEH), cribra orbitalia (CO), and periosteal reaction of the tibiae (Tibia PR). RESULTS The Gallo-Roman sample demonstrated shorter femoral lengths, and higher rates of DEH and Tibia PR. Post-Roman groups demonstrated longer femoral lengths and higher rates of CO. CONCLUSIONS Gallo-Roman individuals may have been more regularly exposed to infectious pathogens throughout childhood, inhibiting opportunities for catch-up growth, resulting in high rates of DEH and shorter femoral lengths ('intermittent stress of low lethality'). This could be the result of overcrowding and insalubrious urban environments. Higher rates of CO in the Post-Roman samples may have been influenced by dietary changes between the periods. SIGNIFICANCE The intertwined and often synergistic relationships between early life environment, nutrition and settlement structure is highlighted, helping to further understandings of life experiences during the Roman and Post-Roman periods. LIMITATIONS It was not possible to obtain sufficient data from northern regions during the Gallo-Roman period, limiting this analysis. SUGGESTIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH Further application of life course approaches can reveal subtle patterns in stress indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie Quade
- Durham University, Department of Archaeology, Lower Mount Joy, South Rd, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom; Masaryk University, Department of Anthropology, Faculty of Science, Kotlářská 267/2, 611 37, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Rebecca Gowland
- Durham University, Department of Archaeology, Lower Mount Joy, South Rd, Durham, DH1 3LE, United Kingdom.
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11
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Baldoni M, Nardi A, De Angelis F, Rickards O, Martínez-Labarga C. How Does Diet Influence Our Lives? Evaluating the Relationship between Isotopic Signatures and Mortality Patterns in Italian Roman Imperial and Medieval Periods. Molecules 2021; 26:3895. [PMID: 34202264 PMCID: PMC8271375 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26133895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The present research investigates the relationship between dietary habits and mortality patterns in the Roman Imperial and Medieval periods. The reconstructions of population dynamics and subsistence strategies provide a fascinating source of information for understanding our history. This is particularly true given that the changes in social, economic, political, and religious aspects related to the transition from the Roman period to the Middle Ages have been widely discussed. We analyzed the isotopic and mortality patterns of 616 individuals from 18 archeological sites (the Medieval Latium sites of Colonna, Santa Severa, Allumiere, Cencelle, and 14 Medieval and Imperial funerary contexts from Rome) to compile a survivorship analysis. A semi-parametric approach was applied, suggesting variations in mortality patterns between sexes in the Roman period. Nitrogen isotopic signatures influenced mortality in both periods, showing a quadratic and a linear effect for Roman Imperial and Medieval populations, respectively. No influence of carbon isotopic signatures has been detected for Roman Imperial populations. Conversely, increased mortality risk for rising carbon isotopic values was observed in Medieval samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marica Baldoni
- Centre of Molecular Anthropology for Ancient DNA Studies, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.A.); (O.R.)
- Ph.D. Program in Evolutionary Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Nardi
- Department of Mathematics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy;
| | - Flavio De Angelis
- Centre of Molecular Anthropology for Ancient DNA Studies, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.A.); (O.R.)
| | - Olga Rickards
- Centre of Molecular Anthropology for Ancient DNA Studies, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.A.); (O.R.)
| | - Cristina Martínez-Labarga
- Centre of Molecular Anthropology for Ancient DNA Studies, Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.D.A.); (O.R.)
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12
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Nedoklan S, Knezovic Z, Knezovic N, Sutlovic D. NUTRITION AND MINERAL CONTENT IN HUMAN TEETH THROUGH THE CENTURIES. Arch Oral Biol 2021; 124:105075. [PMID: 33571733 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2021.105075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The objectives of the study were: (i) to compare mineral values of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc and their ratios, in teeth from Croatian populations that lived in different historical periods, namely the Medieval period, the early 20th century, and the 21 st century; and (ii) to elucidate the influence of diet and lifestyle on tooth quality in these groups. DESIGN Determination of mineral content (Ca, Mg, P and Zn) in 294 teeth from three different periods of history (Medieval Period [G1], Second World War period [G2] and the contemporary period [G3]) using atomic absorption spectrometer and UV/VIS spectrometer methods. RESULTS Our results showed that the mineral content in teeth has changed over the centuries. Between analysed samples from all groups, there were significant differences in the elemental content as well as in the interrelationship of the elements. The largest differences were observed in the mean values of magnesium and zinc concentrations while smaller differences were observed for changes in calcium and phosphorus. CONCLUSIONS From the obtained results, it is evident that there are changes in the tooth mineral composition in specimens centuries apart that could be a reflection of changes in eating habits, food quality and the environment. In addition to differences in individual elements, differences in their mutual ratios were also observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srđan Nedoklan
- Community Health Centre of Split-Dalmatia County, 21 251 Žrnovnica, Croatia.
| | - Zlatka Knezovic
- Public Health Institute of Split - Dalmatian County, 21 000 Split, Croatia; University Department for Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia
| | - Nina Knezovic
- Public Health Institute of Split - Dalmatian County, 21 000 Split, Croatia
| | - Davorka Sutlovic
- University Department for Health Studies, University of Split, 21000 Split, Croatia; Department of Toxicology and Pharmacogenetics, University of Split School of Medicine, 21 000 Split, Croatia
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13
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Toyne JM, Turner BL. Linking isotope analysis and paleopathology: An andean perspective. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PALEOPATHOLOGY 2020; 29:117-127. [PMID: 32507722 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpp.2019.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2019] [Revised: 10/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the significant advances in isotopic investigations in Andean South America and directs scholars to explore new theoretical and analytical directions, specifically the applicability of isotope data to paleopathology. Excellent preservation and large skeletal collections of human remains make the Central Andes ideal for biogeochemical reconstructions and advancements in isotopic methods. Our aims are twofold: first, we present a meta-analysis of stable and radiogenic isotope research in the Central Andes since 1985, and highlight those that combine analyses of isotope ratios and pathological conditions. Second, we discuss useful directions for incorporating stable isotope analysis more explicitly in studies of paleopathology in the Andes more in the future. Principle research foci have described dietary variation and regional population mobility since the 1980s, where early methodological explorations identified significant trends in isotopic variation. For the years 1980-2017, we identified 96 scholarly publications through a meta-data analysis of major peer-reviewed journals, book chapters, and conference proceedings. These demonstrate specific trends in topical and methodological preferences across the Andean region and a shift from 10 publications pre-1997 to 67 in the last 10 years. However, combined isotope and paleopathology studies in this region remain sparse; given the ecological, geological, and cultural complexity of the Central Andes, analyses of pathological conditions in different regions would significantly benefit from the information on diet, mobility, and local ecology that isotope ratios provide. Isotope analysis requires destruction of archaeological tissues, and interpreting isotope data can be complex, but it can also provide unique insights into the pathogenesis of multifactorial conditions and assist differential diagnosis. Therefore, we also discuss research designs for pairing isotopic and paleopathological variables that will allow researchers to better capture disease ecologies in archaeological samples and their variation across different regions, within related sites, and within individual lifespans.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Marla Toyne
- Department of Anthropology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL, 32803-1631, United States.
| | - Bethany L Turner
- Department of Anthropology, Georgia State University, PO Box 3998, Atlanta, GA 30302-3998, United States.
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14
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Whitmore KM, Dupras TL, Williams LJ, Skipitytė R, Schultz JJ, Jankauskas R. Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope inter- and intra-individual dietary reconstruction from the late 14th to early 18th century site of Alytus, Lithuania. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2018; 168:279-291. [PMID: 30593657 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Baltic region, particularly Lithuania, was a politically vibrant area of Eastern Europe during the medieval and early modern period. To better understand the diet of Lithuanians during the late 14th to early 18th century, we examine stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios from bone and dentin samples from the site of Alytus. We investigate possible dietary differences based on sex, age, and religious practice, as well as dietary changes throughout an individual's lifetime, within the broader European milieu. MATERIALS AND METHODS Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis was conducted on bone (n = 35) and dentin (n = 38) collagen samples from a total of 39 individuals buried in the cemetery at Alytus (late 14th to early 18th centuries). RESULTS Results indicate individuals at Alytus consumed a C3 terrestrial based diet. The δ13 C and δ15 N values are not significantly different between bone and dentin, and did not vary by sex. DISCUSSION The diet at Alytus was homogeneous between males and females and between tissue types. The lack of evidence indicating substantial consumption of fish is unexpected given widespread Catholic fasting practices and marine resource trade throughout Europe. Comparisons with other populations indicate that individuals from Alytus differ in diet from contemporaneous Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth elites. Comparison of the diets of non-elite individuals in the Eastern Baltic region also reveals dietary variability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie M Whitmore
- Department of Anthropology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
| | - Tosha L Dupras
- Department of Anthropology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | - Lana J Williams
- Department of Anthropology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | | | - John J Schultz
- Department of Anthropology, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida.,National Center for Forensic Science, University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
| | - Rimantas Jankauskas
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Anthropology, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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15
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Holder S, Dupras TL, Jankauskas R, Williams L, Schultz J. Reconstructing diet in Napoleon's Grand Army using stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2017; 163:53-63. [DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sammantha Holder
- Department of Anthropology; University of Georgia; Athens GA 30602
| | - Tosha L. Dupras
- Department of Anthropology; University of Central Florida; Orlando FL 32816
| | - Rimantas Jankauskas
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, & Anthropology; Vilnius University; Vilnius LT2009 Lithuania
| | - Lana Williams
- Department of Anthropology; University of Central Florida; Orlando FL 32816
| | - John Schultz
- Department of Anthropology; University of Central Florida; Orlando FL 32816
- National Center for Forensic Science; University of Central Florida; Orlando FL 32816
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16
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López-Costas O, Müldner G. Fringes of the empire: Diet and cultural change at the Roman to post-Roman transition in NW Iberia. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2016; 161:141-54. [PMID: 27311883 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.23016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Revised: 05/04/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
A growing number of paleodiet investigations over recent years have begun to reveal the stark dietary differences that existed between regions of the Roman Empire, as well as significant changes in subsistence strategies after its fall. The present study explores the dietary changes at the Roman to post-Roman (Germanic) transition in the Northwest Iberian Peninsula, in order to improve our understanding of the changes that occurred at end of the Roman Empire in different regions across Europe and to also consider the influence of climate had on them. The carbon and nitrogen stable isotope investigation in bone collagen from A Lanzada, NW Spain (100-700 AD), which was an important commercial, coastal settlement has been presented. A human sample of 59 individuals, 6 of them subadults, is compared with 31 faunal specimens, which include a number of marine fish. Isotope data for the terrestrial fauna reveal the influence of the sea on the local isotope baseline. Analysis of the human samples indicates a mixed marine-terrestrial diet. A shift in mean human δ(13) C values from -16.7‰ to -14.3‰ provides clear evidence for a significant change in diet in the post-Roman period, probably through the intensification of both marine resources exploitation and C4 -plant consumption (presumably millet). A deterioration of paleoenvironmental conditions, together with a poor socioeconomic situation and the arrival of new people, the Sueves, who brought a new political and socioeconomic system have been discussed as the main causes for the dietary modification in post-Roman times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olalla López-Costas
- Group Earth System Sciences, Departamento de Xeografía, Facultade de Xeografía e Historia, Universidade de Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, 15782, Spain.,Archaeological Research Laboratory, Stockholm University, Wallenberglaboratoriet, Stockholm, SE-, 10691, Sweden.,Laboratory of Anthropology, Department of Legal Medicine, Toxicology and Physical Anthropology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Granada, Granada, 18012, Spain
| | - Gundula Müldner
- Department of Archaeology, University of Reading, Whiteknights, Reading, RG6 6AB, United Kingdom
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17
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Grolmusová Z, Rapčanová A, Michalko J, Čech P, Veis P. Stable isotope composition of human fingernails from Slovakia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 496:226-232. [PMID: 25086300 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.07.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Stable isotope composition of human fingernails has proven to be useful for documenting human dietary information and geographical patterns in archeological, forensic, anthropological and biological studies. Therefore, it is of interest to detect all factors influencing the stable isotopic composition in the certain regions in the world. Carbon and nitrogen isotope data of human fingernail keratin from 52 individuals from Slovakia were reported in this study. The online combustion and continuous flow isotope-ratio mass spectrometer Delta V Advantage was used for δ(13)C and δ(15)N analysis of fingernail keratin samples from 24 vegetarian and 28 omnivorous individuals. A group of people with frequent meat consumption showed enrichment in (13)C and (15)N isotopes in fingernails. A similar trend was observed with increasing seafood in an individual's diet. Moreover a significant difference was revealed between smokers and nonsmokers for both δ(13)C and δ(15)N values. These data were compared to previously published δ(13)C and δ(15)N fingernail values from across the globe. This study brings new information on the stable isotope signature of individuals from Slovakia and characterizes the Central European region for the first time. The stable isotope composition of fingernails is influenced by the frequency of meat and seafood consumption as well as smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Grolmusová
- Comenius University in Bratislava, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, Department of Experimental Physics, Mlynská dolina F2, 842 48 Bratislava, Slovakia; State Geological Institute of Dionýz Štúr, Laboratory of Isotope Geology, Mlynská dolina 1, 817 04 Bratislava, Slovakia.
| | - Anna Rapčanová
- Comenius University in Bratislava, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, Department of Experimental Physics, Mlynská dolina F2, 842 48 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Michalko
- State Geological Institute of Dionýz Štúr, Laboratory of Isotope Geology, Mlynská dolina 1, 817 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Peter Čech
- State Geological Institute of Dionýz Štúr, Laboratory of Isotope Geology, Mlynská dolina 1, 817 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Pavel Veis
- Comenius University in Bratislava, Faculty of Mathematics, Physics and Informatics, Department of Experimental Physics, Mlynská dolina F2, 842 48 Bratislava, Slovakia; State Geological Institute of Dionýz Štúr, Laboratory of Isotope Geology, Mlynská dolina 1, 817 04 Bratislava, Slovakia
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18
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Lösch S, Moghaddam N, Grossschmidt K, Risser DU, Kanz F. Stable isotope and trace element studies on gladiators and contemporary Romans from Ephesus (Turkey, 2nd and 3rd Ct. AD)--mplications for differences in diet. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110489. [PMID: 25333366 PMCID: PMC4198250 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The gladiator cemetery discovered in Ephesus (Turkey) in 1993 dates to the 2nd and 3rd century AD. The aim of this study is to reconstruct diverse diet, social stratification, and migration of the inhabitants of Roman Ephesus and the distinct group of gladiators. Stable carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur isotope analysis were applied, and inorganic bone elements (strontium, calcium) were determined. In total, 53 individuals, including 22 gladiators, were analysed. All individuals consumed C3 plants like wheat and barley as staple food. A few individuals show indication of consumption of C4 plants. The δ13C values of one female from the gladiator cemetery and one gladiator differ from all other individuals. Their δ34S values indicate that they probably migrated from another geographical region or consumed different foods. The δ15N values are relatively low in comparison to other sites from Roman times. A probable cause for the depletion of 15N in Ephesus could be the frequent consumption of legumes. The Sr/Ca-ratios of the gladiators were significantly higher than the values of the contemporary Roman inhabitants. Since the Sr/Ca-ratio reflects the main Ca-supplier in the diet, the elevated values of the gladiators might suggest a frequent use of a plant ash beverage, as mentioned in ancient texts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lösch
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Negahnaz Moghaddam
- Department of Physical Anthropology, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Karl Grossschmidt
- Center of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniele U. Risser
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Fabian Kanz
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- * E-mail:
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Lightfoot E, Slaus M, O'Connell TC. Water consumption in Iron Age, Roman, and Early Medieval Croatia. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2014; 154:535-43. [PMID: 24888560 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Patterns of water consumption by past human populations are rarely considered, yet drinking behavior is socially mediated and access to water sources is often socially controlled. Oxygen isotope analysis of archeological human remains is commonly used to identify migrants in the archeological record, but it can also be used to consider water itself, as this technique documents water consumption rather than migration directly. Here, we report an oxygen isotope study of humans and animals from coastal regions of Croatia in the Iron Age, Roman, and Early Medieval periods. The results show that while faunal values have little diachronic variation, the human data vary through time, and there are wide ranges of values within each period. Our interpretation is that this is not solely a result of mobility, but that human behavior can and did lead to human oxygen isotope ratios that are different from that expected from consumption of local precipitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Lightfoot
- McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3ER, UK
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20
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Iacumin P, Galli E, Cavalli F, Cecere L. C4 -consumers in southern Europe: the case of Friuli V.G. (NE-Italy) during early and central Middle Ages. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2014; 154:561-74. [PMID: 24889200 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2014] [Accepted: 05/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Isotope variations were studied in necropolises of the early (6th to 7th century CE) and central (10th to 11th century CE) medieval period located in Fruili-Venezia Giulia (Northeastern Italy). The two periods each shortly followed two great barbarian invasions that changed the politics and economy of Italy: the arrivals of Langobards in 578 CE and the Hungarian incursions from the end of the 9th to the first half of the 10th century. These events had a tragic effect on the economy of Friuli-Venezia Giulia: severe depopulation and the partial abandonment of the countryside with fall of agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Iacumin
- Università degli Studi di Parma, Dipartimento di Fisica e Scienze della Terra "M. Melloni", Parco Area delle Scienze 157/A, 43100, Parma, Italy
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Craig OE, Bondioli L, Fattore L, Higham T, Hedges R. Evaluating marine diets through radiocarbon dating and stable isotope analysis of victims of the AD79 eruption of vesuvius. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2013; 152:345-52. [PMID: 24000142 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.22352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2013] [Revised: 05/28/2013] [Accepted: 07/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver E. Craig
- BioArCh; Department of Archaeology; University of York; York; YO10 5DD; UK
| | - Luca Bondioli
- Soprintendenza al Museo Nazionale Preistorico Etnografico “Luigi Pigorini,”; Rome; Italy
| | | | - Tom Higham
- Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art, University of Oxford; Oxford; UK
| | - Robert Hedges
- Research Laboratory for Archaeology and the History of Art, University of Oxford; Oxford; UK
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