The Distribution of Elements in 48 Canine Compact Bone Types Using Handheld X-Ray Fluorescence

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Biogeochemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• Understanding elemental distribution in bone is crucial for various scientific applications.
• Previous research has not comprehensively analyzed elemental profiles across diverse canine bone types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine and compare elemental levels in various canine compact bones.
• To investigate if elemental composition and calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) ratios differ between bone types.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of elemental levels in 48 canine compact bones using handheld X-ray fluorescence (XRF).
• Detection and quantification of 26 elements, with 13 found in all samples.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in elemental profiles were observed among canine bone types.
• The sternum and os penis exhibited the highest number of detected elements.
• Variations in Ca/P ratios were noted, with higher ratios in patella, calcaneus, and sternum, and lower ratios in radius, rib, phalanx, and carpus.

Conclusions:

• Canine bones possess distinct elemental profiles, even for major elements like calcium and phosphorus.
• The Ca/P ratio varies significantly between different bone types.
• This data is vital for selecting appropriate bone samples for element-specific studies.