Home About us Contact
|
Home About us Contact | ||
|
|
||
Plasma-mass Spectrometry (plasma-mass + spectrometry)
Selected AbstractsSpeciation and Environmental Fate of Chromium in Rivers Contaminated with Tannery EffluentsENGINEERING IN LIFE SCIENCES (ELECTRONIC), Issue 2 2007J. Dominik Abstract Redox and size speciation of chromium in rivers contaminated with tannery wastewater was carried out to provide insight into its transport and removal mechanisms. Total chromium was determined with Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry and Cr,(VI) with Catalytic Adsorption Stripping Voltammetry. For the size speciation, particles were retained with a cartridge filter (cut-off 1.2,,m) and the total filterable fraction was further fractionated with Tangential Flow Filtration to determine the concentrations of chromium associated with the High Molecular Weight Colloidal (HMWC), Low Molecular Weight Colloidal (LMWC) and Truly Dissolved (TD) fractions. Two fluvial systems of similar sizes, but located in contrasting climatic zones, were selected for comparison: the Sebou-Fez system in Morocco and Dunajec River-Czorsztyn Reservoir system in Poland. Particulate Cr dominated in the Sebou-Fez system (about 90,%); while in the Dunajec-Czorsztyn system, it represented only 17,53,% of the total chromium in raw water. Still, the partition coefficients [Kd] were of the same magnitude. Chromium,(III) was the only form detected in Sebou-Fez, whereas in Dunajec-Czorsztyn Cr,(VI) was also present with its proportion increasing downstream from the input of tannery wastewater due to the preferential removal of Cr,(III). In the filtered water in Morocco a large fraction of Cr occurred in the HMWC fraction (50,70,%) at the two most contaminated sites, while the LMWC and TD forms prevailed at the non-contaminated sites in the Sebou River. At a very high concentration, in the water in the proximity of tanneries (well above the theoretical saturation level) Cr precipitated as polynuclear Cr-hydroxide. In Dunajec-Czorsztyn, the partition of Cr,(III) was approximately equal between the HMWC, LMWC and TD fractions, in contrast to Cr,(VI) which occurred almost exclusively in the TD fraction. In both systems, Cr,(III) was rapidly removed from the water to the sediments. The confluence of the Sebou with the Fez and the Czorsztyn reservoir trapped efficiently Cr,(III) preventing its spreading over long distances. Cr,(VI) showed conservative behavior and bypassed the Czorsztyn Reservoir. This study provides a first set of data on the partitioning of Cr,(III) and Cr,(VI) between the particulate, the colloidal and truly dissolved fractions in fluvial systems contaminated with tannery effluents. It also suggests that, in these systems, truly dissolved Cr,(III) can be adequately modeled from the total filterable concentrations. [source] Simultaneous Determination of Fluorine, Chlorine, Bromine and Iodine in Six Geochemical Reference Materials Using Pyrohydrolysis, Ion Chromatography and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass SpectrometryGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 4 2009Hélène Balcone-Boissard halogènes; pyrohydrolyse; chromatographie ionique; spectrométrie de masse couplée à une source de plasma induit; matériaux géologiques de référence Concentrations of halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine) were determined in six geochemical reference materials (BHVO-2, GS-N, JG-1, JR-1, JB-1b, JB-2). Halogens were first extracted from powdered samples using a pyrohydrolysis technique, then hydrolysis solutions were analysed by ion chromatography for F and Cl and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry for Br and I. The detection limits in solutions were 100 ,g l,1 for both F and Cl and 10 ng l,1 for Br and I. Considering the extraction procedure, performed on a maximum of 500 mg of sample and producing 100 ml of pyrohydrolysis solution, detection limits in rock samples were 20 mg kg,1 for F and Cl and 2 ,g kg,1 for Br and I. The mean analytical errors on the studied composition ranges were estimated at 10 mg kg,1 for F and Cl, 100 ,g kg,1 for Br and 25 ,g kg,1 for I. The concentration values, based on repeated (generally > 10) sample analysis, were in good agreement generally with published values and narrowed the mean dispersion around mean values. Large dispersions are discussed in terms of samples heterogeneity and contaminations during sample preparation. Basaltic RMs were found to be more suitable for studies of halogen compositions than differentiated rock material, especially granites , the powders of which were heterogeneous in halogens at the 500 mg level. Les concentrations en halogènes (fluor, chlore, brome et iode) on été déterminées dans 6 matériaux géologiques de référence (BHVO-2, GS-N, JG-1, JR-1, JB-1b, JB-2), distribués par le GSJ, l'USGS et le CRPG. Les halogènes étaient d'abord extraits des échantillons, disponibles sous forme de poudre, par pyrohydrolyse. F et Cl sont ensuite analysés par chromatographie ionique, Br et I par spectrométrie de masse couplée à une source de plasma induit. Les limites de détection sont de 100 ,g l,1 pour F et Cl, et de 10 ng l,1 pour Br et I, respectivement. L'extraction des halogènes était réalisée sur 500 mg de poudre de roche, produisant 100 ml de solution d'extraction. Ainsi, pour les échantillons de roche, les limites de détection étaient de 20 mg kg,1 pour F et Cl, et 2 ,g kg,1 pour Br et I. L'erreur analytique moyenne sur la gamme de concentration étudiée est estimée à 10 mg kg,1 pour F et Cl, 100 ,g kg,1 pour Br et 25 ,g kg,1 pour I. Les valeurs de concentrations données, obtenues par l'analyse répétée (> 10) du même échantillon étaient en accord avec les valeurs reportées dans la littérature. Elles présentent en général une plus faible dispersion autour de la valeur moyenne. Dans le cas d'une importante dispersion des résultats, celle-ci est discutée en terme d'hétérogénéité de l'échantillon analysé et de contamination durant la préparation du matériel de référence. Les échantillons de référence de composition basaltique se révèlent être plus appropriés pour étudier les compositions en halogènes que les matériaux correspondant à des roches différenciées, en particulier des granites dont la distribution en halogènes apparaît hétérogène dans les poudres à l'échelle d'un aliquot de 500 mg. [source] Accurate U-Pb Age and Trace Element Determinations of Zircon by Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass SpectrometryGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2004Honglin Yuan LA-ICP-MS; laser excimer; zircon; géochronologie; éléments en trace Various zircons of Proterozoic to Oligocene ages (1060-31 Ma) were analysed by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Calibration was performed using Harvard reference zircon 91500 or Australian National University reference zircon TEMORA 1 as external calibrant. The results agree with those obtained by SIMS within 2s error. Twenty-four trace and rare earth elements (P, Ti, Cr, Y, Nb, fourteen REE, Hf, Ta, Pb, Th and U) were analysed on four fragments of zircon 91500. NIST SRM 610 was used as the reference material and 29Si was used as internal calibrant. Based on determinations of four fragments, this zircon shows significant intra-and inter-fragment variations in the range from 10% to 85% on a scale of 120 ,m, with the variation of REE concentrations up to 38.7%, although the chondrite-normalised REE distributions are very similar. In contrast, the determined age values for zircon 91500 agree with TIMS data and are homogeneous within 8.7 Ma (2s). A two-stage ablation strategy was developed for optimising U-Pb age determinations with satisfactory trace element and REE results. The first cycle of ablation was used to collect data for age determination only, which was followed by continuous ablation on the same spot to determine REE and trace element concentrations. Based on this procedure, it was possible to measure zircon ages as low as 30.37 0.39 Ma (MSWD = 1.4; 2s). Other examples for older zircons are also given. Différents zircons d'âges variant du Protérozoïque à l'Oligocène (1060-31 Ma) ont été analysés par spectrométrie avec source à plasma induit et ablation laser. La calibration a été faite en utilisant le zircon 91500 de référence de Harvard ou le zircon TEMORA 1 de référence de l'Université Nationale Australienne comme calibrant externe. Les résultats sont en accord avec ceux obtenus par SIMS aux erreurs analytiques près (2s). Vingt-quatre éléments en trace et Terres Rares (P, Ti, Cr, Y, Nb, quatorze ETR, Hf, Ta, Pb, Th et U) ont été analysés sur quatre fragments du zircon 91500. Le standard SRM 610 de NIST a été utilisé comme matériau de référence et 29Si comme calibrant interne. À partir des déterminations faites sur ces quatre fragments, ce zircon montre des variations intra et inter fragments de l'ordre de 10%à 85%à une échelle de 120 ,m, avec des variations des concentrations de Terres Rares allant jusquà 38.7%, bien que le spectre de Terres Rares normalisé aux chondrites reste très constant. Au contraire, les âges déterminés pour le zircon 91500 sont en accord avec les résultats de TIMS et sont homogènes à 8.7 Ma près (2s). Une stratégie d'ablation en deux étapes a été développée pour optimiser les déterminations d'âges U-Pb, et avoir des résultats de Terres Rares et d'éléments en trace satisfaisants. Le premier cycle d'ablation était utilisé pour collecter les données nécessaires à la détermination de l'âge seulement et était suivi d'un cycle d'ablation continue sur le même spot, pour déterminer les concentrations en Terres Rares et en éléments en trace. Grâce à cette procédure, il a été possible de mesurer des âges sur zircons aussi récents que 30.37 0.39 Ma (MSWD = 1.4; 2s). D'autres exemples sur des zircons plus vieux sont aussi donnés. [source] Trace Element Fingerprinting of Australian Ocher Using Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) for the Provenance Establishment and Authentication of Indigenous Art,JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 4 2007Rachel L. Green B.Sc. Abstract:, The expansion of indigenous art and the interest it has generated both at a domestic and international level means large monetary transactions are taking place between art galleries or centers and purchasers. As such, an accurate and conclusive method for provenance determination of traditional indigenous artistic materials must be established that can, if necessary, be used to assist in authentication of artworks. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was utilized for elemental differentiation and provenance establishment of ocher samples. This research was used to develop a robust scientific protocol which facilitates definitive and accurate determination of provenance of Australian ochers and the artworks created using them. Analysis of the results obtained through this study show that the trace metal distribution patterns alone appear to be sufficient evidence to establish provenance of specific ochers, although additional differentiation between ocher samples, using major element distribution patterns, was achieved through the utilization of X-ray analytical techniques. [source] Provenance Determination of Oriental Porcelain Using Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS),JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 2 2007Emma K. Bartle B.Sc. ABSTRACT: The sale of fraudulent oriental ceramics constitutes a large proportion of the illegal artifact and antique trade and threatens to undermine the legitimate international market. The sophistication and skill of forgers has reached a level where, using traditional appraisal by eye and hand, even the most experienced specialist is often unable to distinguish between a genuine and fraudulent piece. In addition, current provenancing techniques such as energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry and thermoluminescence (TL) dating can result in significant damage to the artifact itself. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), a relatively nondestructive analytical technique, has been used for the provenance determination of materials based on geographical origin. The technique requires the production of a laser crater, c. 100 ,m in diameter, which is essentially invisible to the naked eye. Debris from this crater is analyzed using ICP-MS, with the results forming the basis of the provenance establishment protocol. Chinese, Japanese, and English porcelain shards have been analyzed using this protocol and generic isotopic distribution patterns have been produced that enable the provenance establishment of porcelain artifacts to their country of production. Minor variations between elemental fingerprints of artifacts produced in the same country also indicate that it may be possible to further provenance oriental ceramics to a specific production region or kiln site. [source] Cover Picture: Electrophoresis 13'2010ELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 13 2010Article first published online: 30 JUN 2010 Issue no. 13 is a special issue on "Food and Beverage Analysis" comprising 23 contributions distributed over four distinct parts. Part I "presents six review papers, five of them are focused on the use of capillary electromigration techniques for detecting enantiomers, nucleosides, nucleotides, pesticides and contaminants in foods as well as foodborne pathogens". The sixth review deals with the application of two-dimensional electrophoresis to investigate food allergens. A series of original contributions on the use of CE, CEC and MEKC in the analysis of food constituents are grouped in Part II. Part III presents "Works on the detection of genetically modified foods by CGE and the analysis of antibiotics and antioxidants by microemulsion electrokinetic chromatography". Finally, Part IV is on the use of CE-MS to analyze endocrine disruptors and polyphenols in different food matrices, and on the speciation analysis of arsenic and selenium compounds in different foodstuffs by capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. [source] Mercury speciation by CE: An updateELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 1 2009Petr Kubán Abstract This review provides an update on mercury speciation by CE. It includes a brief discussion on physicochemical properties, toxicity and transformation pathways of mercury species (i.e. methyl-, ethyl-, phenyl- and inorganic mercury) and outlines recent trends in Hg speciation by CE. CE is presented as a complementary technique to chromatographic separation techniques, especially in cases when speed, high efficiency and low sample volumes are required. The development of suitable sample preconcentration/isolation (sample stacking, ion exchange, liquid,liquid,liquid extraction, dual-cloud point extraction) to achieve low LODs for analysis of trace concentrations of mercury species in real samples is emphasized. Hyphenation of CE to element specific detectors (i.e. electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry) is discussed as well as a potential of CE in interaction studies that may provide useful information on interaction of various Hg species with selected bio-macromolecules. [source] Roxarsone and transformation products in chicken manure: Determination by capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometryELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 7-8 2005Charlita G. Rosal Abstract The determination of the animal feed additive roxarsone (3-nitro-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid) and six of its possible transformation products (arsenite, arsenate, monomethylarsonate, dimethylarsinate, 3-amino-4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid, and 4-hydroxyphenylarsonic acid) in chicken manure was investigated using capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (CE-ICP-MS). Initial method development was conducted using ultraviolet (UV) detection for ruggedness and time efficiency. Separation of these seven arsenic species was effected using a 20,mM phosphate buffer at pH 5.7. The CE-ICP-MS limits of detection in terms of As for each of the species was in the low µg·L,1 range, corresponding to absolute detection limits in the range 20,70,fg As (based on a 23,nL injection). Overall, the method developed in this study provides high selectivity and low limits of detection (1,3,µg·L,1 or low-ppb, based on As), uses small sample volume (low nL), and produces minimal wastes. [source] Speciation of arsenic compounds in fish and oyster tissues by capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometryELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 7-8 2005Ching-Fen Yeh Abstract A capillary electrophoresis-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometric (CE-ICP-MS) method for the speciation of six arsenic compounds, namely arsenite [As(III)], arsenate [As(V)], monomethylarsonic acid, dimethylarsinic acid, arsenobetaine and arsenocholine is described. The separation has been achieved on a 70,cm length×75,µm,ID fused-silica capillary. The electrophoretic buffer used was 15,mM Tris (pH,9.0) containing 15,mM sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), while the applied voltage was set at +22,kV. The arsenic species in biological tissues were extracted into 80%,v/v methanol-water mixture, put in a closed centrifuge tube and kept in a water bath, using microwaves at 80°C for 3,min. The extraction efficiencies of individual arsenic species added to the sample at 0.5,µg As/g level were between 96% and 107%, except for As(III), for which it was 89% and 77% for oyster and fish samples, respectively. The detection limits of the species studied were in the range 0.3,0.5,ng As/mL. The procedure has been applied for the speciation analysis of two reference materials, namely dogfish muscle tissue (NRCC DORM-2) and oyster tissue (NIST SRM 1566a), and two real-world samples. [source] Influence of stability on the acute toxicity of CdSe/ZnS nanocrystals to Daphnia magnaENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2010Heather E. Pace Abstract The acute toxicity of polymer-coated CdSe/ZnS quantum dots (QDs) to Daphnia magna was investigated using 48-h exposure studies. The principal objective was to relate the toxicity of QDs to specific physical and chemical aspects of the QD. As such, two different CdSe core diameters, 2,nm QDs (green-emitting) and 5,nm QDs (red-emitting), and two different surface coatings, polyethylene oxide (PEO) and 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid (MUA) were studied. The QDs were characterized before and after the 48-h exposure using fluorescence, ultrafiltrations (3 kDa), and inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) metal analysis. In addition, flow field flow fractionation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (Fl FFF-ICP-MS) was used as a more extensive characterization technique to determine particle size and composition as well as identify other potential constituents in the QD solutions. The more stable QDs (PEO) were found to be less acutely toxic than the QDs with accelerated dissolution (MUA), suggesting QD stability has significant impact on the nanoparticles' short-term toxicity. The emergence of dissolved Cd2+ in solution indicates that the toxicity of the MUA QDs is likely due to Cd poisoning, and a mass-based dose response occurred as a consequence of this mode of action. Alternatively, the PEO QDs caused acute toxicity without observed particle dissolution (i.e., no detectable metals were solubilized), suggesting an alternative mode of toxic action for these nanoparticles. Results of the present study suggest that using particle number, instead of mass, as a dose metric for the PEO QDs, produces markedly different conclusions, in that smaller core size does not equate to greater toxicity. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2010;29:1338,1344. © 2010 SETAC [source] Arsenic speciation in terrestrial birds from Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada: The unexpected finding of arsenobetaineENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2005Iris Koch Abstract The surrounding area of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada, is known for naturally and anthropogenically elevated concentrations of arsenic. Five bird species (gray jay [Perisoreus canadensis], American tree sparrow [Spizella arborea], dark-eyed junco [Junco hyemalis], yellow-rumped warbler [Dendroica coronata], and spruce grouse [Dendragapus canadensis]) were collected from this area. Their tissues were analyzed for total arsenic and for arsenic species, allowing us to report, to our knowledge for the first time, the arsenic characterization in terrestrial birds. Total arsenic concentrations were determined in the terrestrial birds by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, whereas arsenic speciation analysis was performed using high-performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Total arsenic concentrations were substantially higher in the terrestrial bird species studied from Yellowknife compared with those reported previously in the literature. The primary arsenic species detected in two of the bird species studied was arsenobetaine. Normally, arsenobetaine is not formed or retained by terrestrial animals. Thus, the birds in the present study were thought to be highly adapted compared with other terrestrial animals, because they were able to form and/or retain this relatively nontoxic arsenic compound. This adaptation is thought to be a consequence of the elevated concentrations of arsenic in the Yellowknife area. [source] Occurrence of several arsenic compounds in the liver of birds, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sea turtlesENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2003Reiji Kubota Abstract Concentrations of total arsenic and individual arsenic compounds were determined in livers of birds, cetaceans, pinnipeds, and sea turtles by using hydride generation-atomic absorption spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography/inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Hepatic arsenic concentrations in loggerhead turtles (11.2 ± 3.0 ,g/g dry wt) and black-footed albatrosses (12.2 ± 10.8 ,g/g dry wt) were extremely high among the species examined, and the values were comparable with those of lower trophic marine animals such as fishes, cephalopods, crustaceans, and shellfishes. In all the species, arsenobetaine was the predominant arsenic compound in the livers. Especially, for black-footed albatrosses and black-tailed gull, the mean percentage of arsenobetaine was as high as 97.1 and 87.5, respectively, of extractable arsenic. The present study is among the first on arsenic speciation in avian species. Total arsenic concentration was strongly correlated with the concentration of arsenobetaine, while no significant relationship was observed between total arsenic concentration and other arsenic compounds in these animals. Because arsenobetaine is known to be rapidly excreted into the urine in humans and experimental animals, the observed results suggest that higher trophic marine animals might have a unique metabolism of arsenobetaine and that arsenobetaine plays an important role in the accumulation of arsenic in these animals. [source] High-Resolution LA-ICP-MS for Accurate Determination of Low Abundances of K, Sc and Other Trace Elements in Geological SamplesGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2010Julia Regnery LA-ICP-MS; haute résolution de masses; matériaux géologiques de référence; verres MPI-DING Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) was used to determine K, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn in geological samples. Because the isotopes of these elements and the internal standard element (Ca) often have interferences from molecular ions when determined using quadrupole or sector-field ICP-MS in low mass resolution mode, ion intensities were measured at a high mass resolution of 4000. We investigated dynamic element fractionation, type and abundance of molecular ions using different geological reference materials. Highly resolved mass spectra were especially important for accurate low-abundance measurements. As a result, maximum "critical" concentration limits for each isotope were obtained, where a mass resolution of 4000 was necessary for reliable LA-ICP-MS analysis. To test the LA-ICP-MS technique, different international reference material glasses and powdered rock reference materials were analysed. Rock powders were fused to glass beads using an Ir-strip heater. Nearly all concentration values for the reference materials agreed with the reference values at the 95% confidence level. To demonstrate routine LA-ICP-MS analysis at a mass resolution of 4000, trace element data for Hawaiian basalts are also presented. La technique de spectrométrie de masse couplée à un plasma inductif et associée à un système d'ablation laser (LA-ICP-MS) a été utilisée pour la détermination des concentrations en K, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn dans des échantillons géologiques. Parce que les isotopes de ces éléments et l'élément utilisé comme standard interne (Ca) ont souvent des interférences liées à la formation d'ions moléculaires lorsqu'ils sont analysés par les techniques d'ICP-MS quadripolaire ou à secteur magnétique en mode basse résolution de masses, les intensités des ions ont été mesurées en mode haute résolution de masses de 4000. Nous avons étudié le fractionnement dynamique des éléments, le type et l'abondance des ions moléculaires en utilisant différents matériaux géologiques de référence. Les spectres de masse de haute résolution ont été particulièrement importants pour les mesures précises des faibles abondances. En conséquence, les limites maximales de concentration critique pour chaque isotope ont été obtenues, dans les cas où une résolution de masse de 4000 était nécessaire pour obtenir des analyses LA-ICP-MS fiables. Pour tester la technique LA-ICP-MS proposée, différents verres et poudres de matériaux de référence internationaux ont été analysés. Les poudres de roche ont été transformées en billes de verre par fusion dans un four automatique à chauffage par filament d'iridium. Presque toutes les concentrations obtenues pour les matériaux de référence sont en accord avec les valeurs de référence de la littérature à un niveau de confiance de 95%. Pour démontrer que la méthode présentée de LA-ICP-MS à résolution de masses de 4000 peut s'utiliser en routine, nous présentons également des données d'éléments traces de basaltes Hawaïens. [source] Simultaneous Determination of Fluorine, Chlorine, Bromine and Iodine in Six Geochemical Reference Materials Using Pyrohydrolysis, Ion Chromatography and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass SpectrometryGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 4 2009Hélène Balcone-Boissard halogènes; pyrohydrolyse; chromatographie ionique; spectrométrie de masse couplée à une source de plasma induit; matériaux géologiques de référence Concentrations of halogens (fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine) were determined in six geochemical reference materials (BHVO-2, GS-N, JG-1, JR-1, JB-1b, JB-2). Halogens were first extracted from powdered samples using a pyrohydrolysis technique, then hydrolysis solutions were analysed by ion chromatography for F and Cl and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry for Br and I. The detection limits in solutions were 100 ,g l,1 for both F and Cl and 10 ng l,1 for Br and I. Considering the extraction procedure, performed on a maximum of 500 mg of sample and producing 100 ml of pyrohydrolysis solution, detection limits in rock samples were 20 mg kg,1 for F and Cl and 2 ,g kg,1 for Br and I. The mean analytical errors on the studied composition ranges were estimated at 10 mg kg,1 for F and Cl, 100 ,g kg,1 for Br and 25 ,g kg,1 for I. The concentration values, based on repeated (generally > 10) sample analysis, were in good agreement generally with published values and narrowed the mean dispersion around mean values. Large dispersions are discussed in terms of samples heterogeneity and contaminations during sample preparation. Basaltic RMs were found to be more suitable for studies of halogen compositions than differentiated rock material, especially granites , the powders of which were heterogeneous in halogens at the 500 mg level. Les concentrations en halogènes (fluor, chlore, brome et iode) on été déterminées dans 6 matériaux géologiques de référence (BHVO-2, GS-N, JG-1, JR-1, JB-1b, JB-2), distribués par le GSJ, l'USGS et le CRPG. Les halogènes étaient d'abord extraits des échantillons, disponibles sous forme de poudre, par pyrohydrolyse. F et Cl sont ensuite analysés par chromatographie ionique, Br et I par spectrométrie de masse couplée à une source de plasma induit. Les limites de détection sont de 100 ,g l,1 pour F et Cl, et de 10 ng l,1 pour Br et I, respectivement. L'extraction des halogènes était réalisée sur 500 mg de poudre de roche, produisant 100 ml de solution d'extraction. Ainsi, pour les échantillons de roche, les limites de détection étaient de 20 mg kg,1 pour F et Cl, et 2 ,g kg,1 pour Br et I. L'erreur analytique moyenne sur la gamme de concentration étudiée est estimée à 10 mg kg,1 pour F et Cl, 100 ,g kg,1 pour Br et 25 ,g kg,1 pour I. Les valeurs de concentrations données, obtenues par l'analyse répétée (> 10) du même échantillon étaient en accord avec les valeurs reportées dans la littérature. Elles présentent en général une plus faible dispersion autour de la valeur moyenne. Dans le cas d'une importante dispersion des résultats, celle-ci est discutée en terme d'hétérogénéité de l'échantillon analysé et de contamination durant la préparation du matériel de référence. Les échantillons de référence de composition basaltique se révèlent être plus appropriés pour étudier les compositions en halogènes que les matériaux correspondant à des roches différenciées, en particulier des granites dont la distribution en halogènes apparaît hétérogène dans les poudres à l'échelle d'un aliquot de 500 mg. [source] Application of High Spatial Resolution Laser Ablation ICP-MS to Crystal-Melt Trace Element Partition Coefficient DeterminationGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2007Maurizio Petrelli ICP-MS; ablation laser; éléments en trace; figure de mérite; coefficients de partage entre cristal et liquide In this contribution we evaluate the capabilities of laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) using a 12 ,m spot size. Precision, accuracy and detection limits were assessed on the USGS BCR-2G reference material. We demonstrate that the 12 ,m LA-ICP-MS analyses of experimentally-grown amphibole and garnet are in excellent agreement with secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) trace element determinations on the same crystals. The 12 ,m spot size configuration was subsequently used to determine trace element crystal-melt partition coefficients (Dc/m) for a wide range of trace elements in amphibole in equilibrium with a basanitic melt. The following strategy to determine accurately and evaluate Dc/m is proposed. One or more major elements determined previously by electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) was used to ensure consistency between EPMA and the composition of the aerosol produced by the laser ablation. Measured Dc/m values were successively evaluated using the lattice strain model. The use of this strategy significantly improved the precision and accuracy of Dc/m determination when a LA-ICP-MS configuration with a high spatial resolution was employed. Dans cet article nous évaluons les potentialités de l'ablation laser couplée à un spectromètre de masse à plasma induit (LA-ICP-MS) en travaillant avec un diamètre d'impact de 12 ,m. Précision, justesse et limites de détections sont évaluées sur le matériau de référence BCR-2G de l'USGS. Nous démontrons que les analyses LA-ICP-MS faites avec un diamètre de 12 ,m sur les amphiboles et des grenats synthétiques sont en excellent accord avec les déterminations d'éléments en trace effectuées sur les mêmes cristaux par sonde ionique (SIMS). Ce diamètre d'impact de 12 ,m a donc été sélectionné pour déterminer les coefficients de partage cristal/liquide (Dc/m) pour un grand nombre d'éléments en trace dans une amphibole en équilibre avec un liquide basanitique. Nous proposons la stratégie d'analyse suivante, qui assure une détermination exacte des coefficients de partage Dc/m. Un ou plusieurs des éléments majeurs déterminés auparavant par microsonde électronique (EMPA) est utilisé pour garantir la consistance des données entre EMPA et la composition de l'aérosol produit par l'ablation laser. Les Dc/m mesurés sont ensuite évalués en utilisant le modèle de contrainte de réseau. L'utilisation de cette stratégie améliore de manière significative la précision et la justesse des déterminations de Dc/m quand elle est couplée à l'utilisation d'un système LA-ICP-MS de grande résolution spatiale. [source] Trace Element Determination by ICP-AES and ICP-MS: Developments and Applications Reported During 2004 and 2005GEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2006Kathryn L. Linge This review describes significant developments in trace element determination using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) that were reported in 2004 and 2005. It focuses on the application of ICP techniques to geological and environmental samples; fundamental studies in ICP-MS and ICP-AES instrumentation are not included. The literature reviewed indicated that the majority of new publications concerned advances in ICP-MS analysis rather than ICP-AES. However, ICP-AES developments are still being published, particularly in the areas of sample preconcentration and sample introduction. The trend in increasing publication of developments in hyphenated speciation techniques looks set to persist as knowledge of elemental speciation becomes critical for many environmental studies. Collision or reactions cells were the most reported technique for spectral interference removal in ICP-MS, probably reflecting the growing adoption of cell instruments in laboratories during the last few years. [source] Recent Developments in Trace Element Analysis by ICP-AES and ICP-MS with Particular Reference to Geological and Environmental SamplesGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2005Kathryn L. Linge This review describes recent developments in trace element analysis using inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). It aims to focus on the application of ICP techniques to geological and environmental samples. Therefore, fundamental studies in ICP-MS and ICP-AES instrumentation have largely been ignored. Whereas the majority of literature reviewed related to ICP-MS, indicating that ICP-MS is now the preferred technique for all geological analysis, there is still a steady development of ICP-AES to environmental applications. It is clear that true flexibility in elemental analysis can only be achieved by combining the advantages of both ICP-AES and ICP-MS. Two particular groups of elements (long-lived radionuclide and the platinum-group elements) stood out as warranting dedicated sections describing analytical developments these areas. [source] Accurate U-Pb Age and Trace Element Determinations of Zircon by Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass SpectrometryGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2004Honglin Yuan LA-ICP-MS; laser excimer; zircon; géochronologie; éléments en trace Various zircons of Proterozoic to Oligocene ages (1060-31 Ma) were analysed by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Calibration was performed using Harvard reference zircon 91500 or Australian National University reference zircon TEMORA 1 as external calibrant. The results agree with those obtained by SIMS within 2s error. Twenty-four trace and rare earth elements (P, Ti, Cr, Y, Nb, fourteen REE, Hf, Ta, Pb, Th and U) were analysed on four fragments of zircon 91500. NIST SRM 610 was used as the reference material and 29Si was used as internal calibrant. Based on determinations of four fragments, this zircon shows significant intra-and inter-fragment variations in the range from 10% to 85% on a scale of 120 ,m, with the variation of REE concentrations up to 38.7%, although the chondrite-normalised REE distributions are very similar. In contrast, the determined age values for zircon 91500 agree with TIMS data and are homogeneous within 8.7 Ma (2s). A two-stage ablation strategy was developed for optimising U-Pb age determinations with satisfactory trace element and REE results. The first cycle of ablation was used to collect data for age determination only, which was followed by continuous ablation on the same spot to determine REE and trace element concentrations. Based on this procedure, it was possible to measure zircon ages as low as 30.37 0.39 Ma (MSWD = 1.4; 2s). Other examples for older zircons are also given. Différents zircons d'âges variant du Protérozoïque à l'Oligocène (1060-31 Ma) ont été analysés par spectrométrie avec source à plasma induit et ablation laser. La calibration a été faite en utilisant le zircon 91500 de référence de Harvard ou le zircon TEMORA 1 de référence de l'Université Nationale Australienne comme calibrant externe. Les résultats sont en accord avec ceux obtenus par SIMS aux erreurs analytiques près (2s). Vingt-quatre éléments en trace et Terres Rares (P, Ti, Cr, Y, Nb, quatorze ETR, Hf, Ta, Pb, Th et U) ont été analysés sur quatre fragments du zircon 91500. Le standard SRM 610 de NIST a été utilisé comme matériau de référence et 29Si comme calibrant interne. À partir des déterminations faites sur ces quatre fragments, ce zircon montre des variations intra et inter fragments de l'ordre de 10%à 85%à une échelle de 120 ,m, avec des variations des concentrations de Terres Rares allant jusquà 38.7%, bien que le spectre de Terres Rares normalisé aux chondrites reste très constant. Au contraire, les âges déterminés pour le zircon 91500 sont en accord avec les résultats de TIMS et sont homogènes à 8.7 Ma près (2s). Une stratégie d'ablation en deux étapes a été développée pour optimiser les déterminations d'âges U-Pb, et avoir des résultats de Terres Rares et d'éléments en trace satisfaisants. Le premier cycle d'ablation était utilisé pour collecter les données nécessaires à la détermination de l'âge seulement et était suivi d'un cycle d'ablation continue sur le même spot, pour déterminer les concentrations en Terres Rares et en éléments en trace. Grâce à cette procédure, il a été possible de mesurer des âges sur zircons aussi récents que 30.37 0.39 Ma (MSWD = 1.4; 2s). D'autres exemples sur des zircons plus vieux sont aussi donnés. [source] Determination of Lithium Contents in Silicates by Isotope Dilution ICP-MS and its Evaluation by Isotope Dilution Thermal Ionisation Mass SpectrometryGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2004Takuya Moriguti Lithium; ICP-MS avec dilution isotopique; TIMS; matériaux silicatés de référence; météorites A precise and simple method for the determination of lithium concentrations in small amounts of silicate sample was developed by applying isotope dilution-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ID-ICP-MS). Samples plus a Li spike were digested with HF-HClO4, dried and diluted with HNO3, and measured by ICP-MS. No matrix effects were observed for 7Li/6Li in rock solutions with a dilution factor (DF) of 97 at an ICP power of 1.7 kW. By this method, the determination of 0.5 ,g g -1 Li in a silicate sample of 1 mg can be made with a blank correction of < 1%. Lithium contents of ultrabasic to acidic silicate reference materials (JP-1, JB-2, JB-3, JA-1, JA-2, JA-3, JR-1 and JR-2 from the Geological Survey of Japan, and PCC-1 from the US Geological Survey) and chondrites (three different Allende and one Murchison sample) of 8 to 81 mg were determined. The relative standard deviation (RSD) was typically < 1.7%. Lithium contents of these samples were further determined by isotope dilution-thermal ionisation mass spectrometry (ID-TIMS). The relative differences between ID-ICP-MS and ID-TIMS were typically < 2%, indicating the high accuracy of ID-ICP-MS developed in this study. Nous avons développé une méthode simple et précise de détermination des concentrations en lithium dans de très petits échantillons silicatés. Elle est basée sur la méthode de dilution isotopique couplée à l'analyse par spectrométrie de masse avec couplage induit (ID-ICP-MS). Les échantillons auxquels est ajouté le spike de Li, sont mis en solution avec un mélange HF-HclO4, évaporés à sec, puis repris avec HNO3 et analysés à l'ICP-MS. Aucun effet de matrice n'est observé sur les rapports 7Li/6Li dans les solutions quand les facteurs de dilution sont 97 et qu'elles sont analysées avec une puissance du plasma de 1.7 kW. Par cette méthode, la détermination de 0.5 ,g g -1 de Li dans un échantillon silicaté de 1 mg peut être effectuée avec une correction de blanc < 1 %. Les teneurs en lithium des matériaux de référence de composition ultrabasique à acide (JP-1, JB-2, JB-3, JA-1, JA-2, JA-3, JR- 1 et JR-2 du Service Géologique du Japon, et PCC-1 du Service Géologique des USA) et de chondrites (trois échantillons différents d'Allende et un de Murchison), de poids variant entre 8 et 81 mg ont été déterminées. La déviation standard relative typique était < 1.7%. Les teneurs en lithium de ces échantillons ont été ensuite mesurées par dilution isotopique et spectrométrie de masse à thermo-ionisation (ID-TIMS). Les différences entre les résultats obtenus par ID-ICP-MS et ID-TIMS étaient < 2%, démontrant ainsi la grande justesse de la technique ID-ICP-MS développée dans cette étude. [source] Further Characterisation of the 91500 Zircon CrystalGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2004Michael Wiedenbeck zircon 91500; matériau de référence; intercomparaison entre techniques; valeurs de travail This paper reports the results from a second characterisation of the 91500 zircon, including data from electron probe microanalysis, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and laser fluorination analyses. The focus of this initiative was to establish the suitability of this large single zircon crystal for calibrating in situ analyses of the rare earth elements and oxygen isotopes, as well as to provide working values for key geochemical systems. In addition to extensive testing of the chemical and structural homogeneity of this sample, the occurrence of banding in 91500 in both backscattered electron and cathodoluminescence images is described in detail. Blind intercomparison data reported by both LA-ICP-MS and SIMS laboratories indicate that only small systematic differences exist between the data sets provided by these two techniques. Furthermore, the use of NIST SRM 610 glass as the calibrant for SIMS analyses was found to introduce little or no systematic error into the results for zircon. Based on both laser fluorination and SIMS data, zircon 91500 seems to be very well suited for calibrating in situ oxygen isotopic analyses. Cet article présente les résultats d'une nouvelle caractérisation du zircon 91500, dont des données de microanalyse par sonde électronique, d'analyse par ablation laser en couplage à un ICP-MS, d'analyse par sonde ionique (SIMS) et d'analyse par fluorination laser. Le but de cette étude etait de démontrer que ce large monocristal de zircon pouvait être utilisé pour la calibration d'analyses in situ de Terres Rares et des isotopes de I'Oxygène, et en même temps de fournir des valeurs "de travail" pour un certain nombre de systémes géochimiques cruciaux. En complément des tests systématiques d'homogénéité de I'échantillon, tant chimiquement que structurellement, /'ex/sfence, dans le zircon 91500, de zonages visibles en électrons retro diffusés et en cathodoluminescence, est décrite en détail, line comparaison en aveugle des résultats obtenus par LA-ICP-MS et par SIMS, dans des laboratoires différents, montre que les différences systématiques entre les ensembles de données obtenues par ces deux techniques sont très faibles. De plus, I'utilisation du verre NIST SRM 610 comme calibrant lors de I'analyse par SIMS n'introduit qu'une erreur systématique très faible si ce n'est inexistante sur les résultats du zircon. Sur la base des analyses par fluorination laser et par SIMS, le zircon 91500 semble être parfaitement adapte a son utilisation pour la calibration d'analyses isotopiques in situ d'oxygène. [source] Precise/ Small Sample Size Determinations of Lithium Isotopic Compositions of Geological Reference Materials and Modern Seawater by MC-ICP-MSGEOSTANDARDS & GEOANALYTICAL RESEARCH, Issue 1 2004Alistair B. Jeffcoate composition isotopique de Li; matériaux de référence silicates; eau de mer; MC-ICP-MS; Li standard The Li isotope ratios of four international rock reference materials, USGS BHVO-2, GSJ JB-2, JG-2, JA-1 and modern seawater (Mediterranean, Pacific and North Atlantic) were determined using multi-collector inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (MC-ICP-MS). These reference materials of natural samples were chosen to span a considerable range in Li isotope ratios and cover several different matrices in order to provide a useful benchmark for future studies. Our new analytical technique achieves significantly higher precision and reproducibility (< ± O.3%o 2s) than previous methods, with the additional advantage of requiring very low sample masses of ca. 2 ng of Li. Les rapports isotopiques du Li de 4 matériaux de référence, de provenance Internationale, BHVO-2, JB-2, JG-2, JA-1 et d'eau de mer (Méditerranée, Pacifique et Atlantique Nord) ont été déterminés par MC-ICP-MS (spectrométrie de masse avec source à plasma induit à multicollection). Ces matériaux de référence naturels ont été choisis car ils balaient un large champ des rapports isotopiques du Lithium et couvrent différentes matrices afin de fournir un point de repère utile pour les études futures. Notre nouvelle technique analytique permet d'atteindre une précision et une reproductibilité (< ± 0.3%. 2s) nettement supérieures à celles des méthodes précédemment utilisées et présente I'avantage de pouvoir travailler avec des échantillons de petite masse, , 2 ng de Li. [source] Illegal Route Estimation of the Seized Illicit Drug, Methamphetamine, by the Comparison of Striation Marks on Plastic Packaging FilmsJOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 6 2009Ritsuko Sugita Ph.D. Abstract:, In Japan, the most common illicit drug is methamphetamine. It is possible to trace the origin of this drug by analyzing its organic and inorganic impurities and/or byproducts using several methods, such as GC, GC/MS, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). As reported here, one other method includes comparison of the striation lines of polymer sheet layers from packaging using a polarized light method. Other alternative methods include analyzing the heat sealer pattern, layer thickness surface characteristics, and/or components of polymer sheet layers using infrared spectroscopy. Several of these alternative methods were used to analyze the origins of 29 packages confiscated from three regions over a 1000 km distance in Japan. Results indicated that packages seized from different regions had some polymer sheet layers which contained striation lines and heat sealer patterns that were similar. [source] Provenance Determination of Oriental Porcelain Using Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS),JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES, Issue 2 2007Emma K. Bartle B.Sc. ABSTRACT: The sale of fraudulent oriental ceramics constitutes a large proportion of the illegal artifact and antique trade and threatens to undermine the legitimate international market. The sophistication and skill of forgers has reached a level where, using traditional appraisal by eye and hand, even the most experienced specialist is often unable to distinguish between a genuine and fraudulent piece. In addition, current provenancing techniques such as energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry and thermoluminescence (TL) dating can result in significant damage to the artifact itself. Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), a relatively nondestructive analytical technique, has been used for the provenance determination of materials based on geographical origin. The technique requires the production of a laser crater, c. 100 ,m in diameter, which is essentially invisible to the naked eye. Debris from this crater is analyzed using ICP-MS, with the results forming the basis of the provenance establishment protocol. Chinese, Japanese, and English porcelain shards have been analyzed using this protocol and generic isotopic distribution patterns have been produced that enable the provenance establishment of porcelain artifacts to their country of production. Minor variations between elemental fingerprints of artifacts produced in the same country also indicate that it may be possible to further provenance oriental ceramics to a specific production region or kiln site. [source] A comparative U,Th,Pb (zircon,monazite) and 40Ar,39Ar (muscovite,biotite) study of shear zones in northern Victoria Land (Antarctica): implications for geochronology and localized reworking of the Ross OrogenJOURNAL OF METAMORPHIC GEOLOGY, Issue 6 2007G. DI VINCENZO Abstract Mylonitic granites from two shear zones in northern Victoria Land (Antarctica) were investigated in order to examine the behaviour of the U,Th,Pb system in zircon and monazite and of the 40Ar,39Ar system in micas during ductile deformation. Meso- and micro-structural data indicate that shear zones gently dip to the NE and SW, have an opposite sense of shear (top-to-the-SW and -NE, respectively) and developed under upper greenschist facies conditions. In situ U,Pb dating by laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry of zircon areas with well-preserved igneous zoning patterns (c. 490 Ma) confirm that granites were emplaced during the Early Cambrian to Early Ordovician Ross,Delamerian Orogeny. Monazite from the Bier Point Shear Zone (BPSZ) mainly yielded U,Th,Pb ages of c. 440 Ma, in agreement with in-situ Ar laserprobe ages of syn-shear muscovite and with most Ar ages of coexisting biotite. The agreement of ages derived from different decay schemes and from minerals with different crystal-chemical features suggests that isotope transport in the studied sample was mainly controlled by (re)crystallization processes and that the main episode of ductile deformation in the BPSZ occurred at c. 440 Ma. Cathodoluminscence imaging showed that zircon from the BPSZ contains decomposed areas with faint relics of oscillatory zoning. These areas yielded a U,Pb age pattern which mimics that of monazite but is slightly shifted towards older ages, supporting previous studies which suggest that ,ghost' structures may be affected by inheritance. In contrast, secondary structures in zircon from the Mt. Emison Shear Zone (MESZ) predominantly consist of overgrowths or totally recrystallized areas and gave U,Pb ages of c. 450 and 410 Ma. The c. 450-Ma date matches within errors most monazite U,Th,Pb ages and in-situ Ar ages on biotite aligned along the mylonitic foliation. This again suggests that isotope ages from the different minerals are (re)crystallization ages and constrains the time of shearing in the MESZ to the Late Ordovician. Regionally, results indicate that shear zones were active in the Late Ordovician,Early Silurian and that their development was partially synchronous at c. 440 Ma, suggesting that they belong to a shear-zone system formed in response to ,NE,SW-directed shortening. Taking into account the former juxtaposition of northern Victoria Land and SE Australia, we propose that shear zones represent reactivated zones formed in response to stress applied along the new plate margin as a consequence of contractional tectonics associated with the early stages (Benambran Orogeny) of the development of the Late Ordovician,Late Devonian Lachlan Fold Belt. [source] Manganese chelation therapy extends survival in a mouse model of M1000 prion diseaseJOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 2 2010Marcus W. Brazier J. Neurochem. (2010) 114, 440,451. Abstract Previous in vitro and in vivo investigations have suggested manganese (Mn2+) may play a role in pathogenesis through facilitating refolding of the normal cellular form of the prion protein into protease resistant, pathogenic isoforms (PrPSc), as well as the subsequent promotion of higher order aggregation of these abnormal conformers. To further explore the role of Mn2+ in pathogenesis, we undertook a number of studies, including an assessment of the disease modifying effects of chelation therapy in a well-characterized mouse model of prion disease. The di-sodium, calcium derivative of the chelator, cyclohexanediaminetetraacetic acid (Na2CaCDTA), was administered intraperitoneally to mice inoculated intra-cerebrally with either high or low-dose inocula, with treatment beginning early (shortly after inoculation) or late (at the usual mid-survival point of untreated mice). Analyses by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry demonstrated brain Mn2+ levels were selectively reduced by up to 50% in treated mice compared with untreated controls, with copper, iron, zinc and cobalt levels unchanged. In mice administered high-dose inocula, none of the treatment groups displayed an increase in survival although western blot analyses of early intensively treated mice showed reduced brain PrPSc levels; mice infected using low-dose inocula however, showed a significant prolongation of survival (p = 0.002). Although our findings support a role for Mn2+ in prion disease, further studies are required to more precisely delineate the extent of pathogenic involvement. [source] Authenticating the recovery location of meteorites: The case of CastenasoMETEORITICS & PLANETARY SCIENCE, Issue 3 2007Luigi Folco Using the hypothesis that Castenaso was instead a hot-desert meteorite, we conducted a comparative mineralogical and geochemical study of major weathering effects on European and Saharan ordinary chondrites as potential markers of the environment where Castenaso resided during its terrestrial lifetime. Inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) data reveals that Castenaso is significantly enriched in Sr, Ba, Tl, and U, and suggests geochemical alteration in a hot-desert environment. The alteration is minor: Castenaso is not coated by desert varnish and does not show significant light rare earth element (LREE) enrichment or loss of Ni and Co. The apparent contrast in size, morphology, and composition between the soil particles filling the external fractures of Castenaso and those from the bank of the Idice Stream observed under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) suggests that Castenaso did not reside at the reported find location. Abraded quartz grains (up to 1 mm in size) in Castenaso are undoubtedly from a hot-desert eolian environment: they are well-rounded and show external surfaces characterized by the presence of dish-shaped concavities and upturned silica plates that have been subject to solution-precipitation and subsequent smoothing. We therefore conclude that Castenaso is one of the many hot-desert ordinary chondrite finds, probably from the Sahara, that is currently available on the market. This forensic work provides the scientific grounds for changing the name of this meteorite. [source] Platinum pharmacokinetics in sulphur-crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita) following single-dose cisplatin infusionAUSTRALIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 6 2000LJ FILIPPICH Objective To determine the pharmacokinetics of platinum (Pt) in cockatoos. Design A pharmacokinetic study of Pt, following a single IV infusion of cisplatin, was done in six healthy sulphur-crested cockatoos (Cacatua galerita). Procedure Birds were hydrated for 1 h before and 2 h after a 1-h cisplatin infusion (1 mg/kg, IV). Serial blood samples were collected for 96 h after initiation of the infusion and urine was collected for 2 h during the hydration period after cisplatin administration. Tissue samples from 10 organs were obtained at necropsy, 96 h after cisplatin infusion. Total Pt and filterable Pt in plasma, urinary Pt and tissue Pt concentrations were assayed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. A noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed on the plasma and urine data. Results For total Pt and filterable Pt, the respective mean systemic clearances were 0.373 and 0.699 L/kg hourly, the steady state volumes of distribution were 4.19 and 0.356 L/kg, and the mean residence times were 111 and 0.512 h. Total plasma Pt displayed a bi-exponential decay profile with average half-lives of 0.398 and 79.0 h, while filterable Pt had a monoexponential decay with mean half-life of 0.413 h. The renal clearance during the 2-h postinfusion period was 0.167 L/kg hourly. The kidneys had the highest Pt accumulation (4.54 u.g/g DM). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Cisplatin infusion in cockatoos was well tolerated and Pt plasma concentrations were similar to those measured during treatment of solid tumours in human patients. Despite anatomical, physiological and biochemical differences among animal species, the pharmacokinetic disposition of Pt in the cockatoo shares some features with the kinetics reported previously in rodents, dogs and human beings. [source] Mercury Exposure Increases Circulating Net Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 ActivitiesBASIC AND CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY & TOXICOLOGY, Issue 4 2009Anna L. B. Jacob-Ferreira We investigated whether there is an association between the circulating levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, their endogenous inhibitors (the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases; TIMPs) and the circulating Hg levels in 159 subjects environmentally exposed to Hg. Blood and plasma Hg were determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). MMP and TIMP concentrations were measured in plasma samples by gelatin zymography and ELISA respectively. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) were measured in plasma to assess oxidative stress. Selenium (Se) levels were determined by ICP-MS because it is an antioxidant. The relations between bioindicators of Hg and the metalloproteinases levels were examined using multivariate regression models. While we found no relation between blood or plasma Hg and MMP-9, plasma Hg levels were negatively associated with TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 levels, and thereby with increasing MMP-9/TIMP-1 and MMP-2/TIMP-2 ratios, thus indicating a positive association between plasma Hg and circulating net MMP-9 and MMP-2 activities. These findings provide a new insight into the possible biological mechanisms of Hg toxicity, particularly in cardiovascular diseases. [source] | ||||||||||||||||