ABSTRACT
Samples of soil, sediment and pine needles from the Reggio Emilia area were analysed in order to estimate the environmental pollution caused by an MSWI. PCDD/PCDF, PCB, PAH and metals were analysed in the collected samples. The data obtained showed relatively low pollution levels. Indeed, the PCDD/PCDF and PCB data were comparable to the values usually found in the grazing areas of the European Union countries. Metal concentrations in soils and sediments may be related to local geological occurrences and to agricultural activities. PAH values are significantly lower than the limit values set by the Italian law.
Subject(s)
Benzofurans/analysis , Incineration , Metals, Heavy/analysis , Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/analogs & derivatives , Polychlorinated Dibenzodioxins/analysis , Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons/analysis , Power Plants , Air Pollutants/analysis , Dibenzofurans, Polychlorinated , Geography , Geologic Sediments/analysis , Italy , Soil/analysisABSTRACT
We report a unique case of attempted suicide by intramuscular injection of the organophosphate isofenphos which resulted in a muscarinic and nicotinic syndrome lasting 15 days and requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation and hospitalization. The patient, who demonstrated no signs of delayed polyneuropathy on hospital day 25, subsequently died of pneumonia. Toxicological investigations showed isofenphos plasma decay and confirmed the intramuscular route of poisoning. We believe continuous isofenphos absorption resulted in the prolonged intoxication observed in this patient.
