Accumulation of nitrogen and changes in assimilation pigments of lichens transplanted in an agricultural area.

The results of a survey aimed at testing the hypothesis that the lichen Evernia prunastri, when transplanted in an agricultural area with high atmospheric NH(3) concentrations, would respond to NH(3) air pollution accumulating nitrogen in its thalli and showing changes in the concentration of assimilation pigments are presented. The results confirmed the hypothesis and showed that all lichen transplants accumulated nitrogen, suggesting that besides the release of atmospheric ammonia by animal stockfarms, the use of N-based fertilizers and the deposition of N-rich dust also may contribute to the high nitrogen availability to lichens in the study area. The result indicated that in the study area both the critical level of NH(3) and the critical load of N for lichens are exceeded and physiological damage is to be expected in sensitive species.

Concentration and characteristics of depleted uranium in biological and water samples collected in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

During Balkan conflicts in 1994-1995, depleted uranium (DU) ordnance was employed and was left in the battlefield. Health concern is related to the risk arising from contamination of the environment with DU penetrators and dust. In order to evaluate the impact of DU on the environment and population in Bosnia and Herzegovina, radiological survey of DU in biological and water samples were carried out over the period 12-24 October 2002.

Concentration and characteristics of depleted uranium in water, air and biological samples collected in Serbia and Montenegro.

During the Balkan conflicts, in 1995 and 1999, depleted uranium (DU) rounds were employed and were left in the battlefield. Health concern is related to the risk arising from contamination of the environment with DU penetrators and dust. In order to evaluate the impact of DU on the environment and population in Serbia and Montenegro, radiological surveys of DU in water, air and biological samples were carried out over the period 27 October-5 November 2001.