Metal pollution assessment of surface sediments along a new gas pipeline in the Niger Delta (Nigeria).

Chromium, nickel, copper, zinc and cadmium were determined in sediments of the Niger Delta (Nigeria) in order to discriminate between natural metal sources and anthropogenic ones. Surface sediments were collected at seven sites along a new gas pipeline near Port Harcourt, between the New Calabar River and the Bonny River towards Bonny town. Chemical characterisation is obtained by hydrofluoric-nitric acid digestion procedure, providing the 'total' ('residual') metal contents.

Sediment metal contamination in a creek flowing from a pristine to an industrial area of Trieste Province (Italy).

The following metals: Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn were determined by inductively coupled plasma - atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) in fluvial sediments of Rosandra Creek, using two different, strong and mild sediment decomposition methods. The purpose was to obtain information about the contamination by metals and distribution paths of pollutants in the area crossed by Rosandra Creek: this little river is the unique epigeous watercourse in the Italian Karst and very few data can be found in literature. In this area, we can find a natural park, but also agricultural activities and an industrial district that was recently defined as "polluted site of national interest".

PM10 concentrations in relationship with other atmospheric pollutants in an urban-industrial area (Province of Trieste, NE-Italy).

Air quality in Province of Trieste was studied in terms of PM10 trends. Observed correlations between PM10 and atmospheric pollutants produced by combustion are in evidence. Nitrogen oxides and PM10 are critical parameters for air quality in Province of Trieste.

Cobalt blood levels after total hip replacement (THR): a new follow-up study in Trieste (Italy).

Cobalt and chromium release in patients undergone a metal-on-metal total hip replacement (THR) is a matter recently discussed and whose we do not have enough information about it yet. In literature there is little data and not completely indicative, in the biological fluids and organs the amounts of released metals are different. This is also due to the fact that cobalt and chromium blood levels can change depending on physical and working activity, individual feeding and metabolism.