Accurate age estimation using 14C in human teeth

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  • ヒト歯牙中14Cを用いた人体年齢の精密推定

Abstract

One of the important tasks of forensic science is characterization of the unidentified dead bodies produced accidently or criminally. These days, the estimation of the date of birth using bomb-produced 14C is almost established in the north Europe and the US. The most accurate age estimation is the method of using human teeth enamel. However, in Japan, such studies have not been carried out yet, because of the necessity of examination for zonal effect of 14C concentration and the difference of formation duration of teeth of the Japanese. This study intended to establish the age estimation using teeth of the Japanese, and measured 14C concentration of not only enamel but also collagen and inorganic matter of root of tooth. The 14C analysis of roots suggested that the formation of the inorganic matter continued a few years after that of the collagen. And, by using the 14C concentration of the root, the appropriate formation age ranges of enamel can be selected. Age estimation using teeth enamel can be conducted with an average error of 1.7±1.4 years. This value is as accurate as those obtained by the previous studies conducted in the north Europe and in the US. Age estimation using tooth of Japanese can be accurately conducted, and the result of this study assists with criminal investigation and forensic works in Japan to clarify the identity of unidentified cadavers.

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