Spatial and temporal distribution of pollution indices in marine surface sediments-a chemometric approach.

Concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Fe measured at forty locations in the Boka Kotorska Bay were used to monitor the spatial and temporal quality of sediment and to assess surface sediment contamination over the last 15 years. This ecological geochemistry assessment was made using two classes of pollution indices: single indices concerning the investigated elements (contamination factor (Cf)) and integrated indices concerning the locations (pollution load index (PLI), potential ecological risk index (RI), mean effects range median quotient (MERMQ), toxic risk index (TRI), contamination severity index (CSI)). The distribution of all indices was geostatistically mapped and several hotspots were identified.

Human and environmental factors affecting the activity of I and Cs in urban wastewater: A case study.

The analysis of radionuclides content in the waste product of urban wastewater treatment (i.e. sewage sludges) is of great concern for both the safety of workers and in a re-use perspective of the final product.

Elemental and radiological characterization of commercial Cetraria islandica (L.) Acharius pharmaceutical and food supplementation products.

An elemental and radiological characterization was performed on Cetraria islandica (L.) Ach. pharmaceutical and food supplementation products purchased in local specialty shops in Italy.

Radioactivity measurements and dosimetric evaluation in meat of wild birds.

The aim of this study was to determine the background activity concentration of natural radionuclides and Cesium (Cs) in meat of 14 migratory birds originating from central and northern Europe. This meat is largely consumed by the Italian population. K, Pb, and Cs were determined by gamma spectrometry and Po by alpha spectrometry.

Radiochemical Characterization of Algae Products Commercialized for Human Consumption.

Natural radionuclides and Cs were determined by alpha (U, U, Th,Po,Th, and Th) and gamma spectrometry (Cs, K, Ra, Pb, and Ra via Ac) in 14 dried seaweeds commercialized for human nutrition in Italy. The study was carried out in order to provide information on the concentrations of natural and artificial radionuclides. Cesium-137 (Cs) concentrations in all analyzed samples were always <2.