Origin,toxicological and narcotic potential of sedimentary PAHs and remarkable even/odd n-alkane predominance in Bushehr Peninsula,the Persian Gulf

Surface sediments (n = 17) were collected from 6 sites located in the coasts of the Bushehr Peninsula. ∑₁₆PAH concentrations were in the range of 285.9–1288 ng g^? 1 dw and the sediments were moderately polluted. Py, Ph, B(a)A and Flu showed > 70% of the detected values in order of the mentioned rank. 4-ring PAHs were the dominant compounds and the molecular ratios presented the dominant pyrolytic source. The toxicity of PAHs for sediment dwelling life was averagely equivalent to occurrence of 0.08 ng g^? 1 of Dioxin in dw of the examined sediments. The evaluated narcotic potential (confidence level of 99%) was 0.027–3.04 and upper part of the Bushehr Peninsula, where the human population is more concentrated, showed more narcotic potential. ∑ n-alkane concentrations (n-C₁₅ ? n-C₃₂) were in the range of 3.10–35.6 μg g^? 1 dw. The dominant distribution of even carbon number n-alkanes was traced back to a possibly autochthonous source.     

Distribution and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface sediments of the Hormuz strait,Persian Gulf

The concentrations of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in the sediment from the Hormuz strait, Persian Gulf. The sum of 16 PAHs (ΣPAH) concentrations varied from 72.17 to 277.77 ng g⁻¹ dry weight, with an average value of 131.20 ± 59.29 ng g⁻¹ dry weight. An ecological risk assessment of PAHs, indicated that adverse biological effects caused by acenaphthene and acenaphthylene occasionally may take place in the sediment of Hormuz strait. PAH source identification showed that the PAHs in the sediments come from pyrogenic and mixed origin. Based on classification of pollution levels, sediments from Hormuz strait could be considered as low to moderately polluted with PAHs.     

PAHs contamination and bacterial communities in mangrove surface sediments of the Jiulong River Estuary,China

Sixteen sediment samples collected from eight transects in a mangrove swamp of the Jiulong River Estuary, Fujian, China were investigated for their content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and the biodegradation potential of the indigenous microorganisms. The bacterial community structures in the mangrove sediments and in enrichment cultures were also investigated. The results showed that the total PAHs concentration of mangrove sediments ranged from 280 to 1074 ng g⁻¹ dry weight, that the PAHs composition pattern in the mangrove sediments was dominated by high molecular weight PAH components (4–6 rings), and that Benzo[ghi]perylene and Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene were the most dominant at different stations. Abundant PAH-degrading bacteria were found in all the stations, the values of phenanthrene-degrading bacteria ranged from 5.85 × 10⁴ to 7.80 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹ dry weight, fluoranthene-degrading bacteria ranged from 5.25 × 10⁴ to 5.79 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹ dry weight, pyrene-degrading bacteria ranged from 3.10 × 10⁴ to 6.97 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹ dry weight and the benzo(a)pyrene-degrading bacteria ranged from 5.25 × 10⁴ to 7.26 × 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹ dry weight. DGGE analysis of PCR-amplified 16S rDNA gene fragments confirmed that there was a remarkable shift in the composition of the bacterial community due to the addition of the different model PAH compound phenanthrene (three ring PAH), fluoranthene(four ring PAH), pyrene(four ring PAH) and benzo(a)pyrene(five ring PAH) during enrichment batch culture. Eleven strains were obtained with different morphology and different degradation ability. The presence of common bands for microbial species in the cultures and in the native mangrove sediment DNA indicated that these strains could be potential in situ PAH-degraders.     

Persistent organic pollutants and stable isotopes in pinnipeds from King George Island,Antarctica

In the present work, fat, skin, liver and muscle samples from Leptonychotes weddellii (Weddell seal, n = 2 individuals), Lobodon carcinophagus (crabeater seal, n = 2), Arctocephalus gazella (Antarctic fur seal, n = 3) and Mirounga leonina (southern elephant seal, n = 1) were collected from King George Island, Antarctica, and analysed for POPs (PCBs, organochlorine pesticides and PBDEs) and stable isotopes (δ¹³C and δ¹⁵N in all tissues but fat). PBDEs could be found in only one sample (L. weddellii fat). Generally, PCBs (from 74 to 523 ng g⁻¹ lw), DDTs (from 14 to 168 ng g⁻¹ lw) and chlordanes (from 9 to 78 ng g⁻¹ lw) were the prevailing compounds. Results showed a clear stratification in accordance with ecological data. Nonetheless, stable isotope analyses provide a deeper insight into fluctuations due to migrations and nutritional stress. Correlation between δ¹⁵N and pollutants suggests, to some degree, a considerable ability to metabolize and/or excrete the majority of them.     

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the coastal water,surface sediment and mullet Liza klunzingeri from northern part of Hormuz strait (Persian Gulf)

The concentrations of 16 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were determined in mullet (Liza klunzingeri), water and sediment from northern part of Hormuz strait (Persian Gulf). The concentration levels of total PAHs in L. klunzingeri, water and sediment were 133.99–268.57 ng g⁻¹ dry weight, 3.12–5.88 ng l⁻¹ and 42.29–228.9 ng g⁻¹ dry weight, respectively. Based on isomer ratios, analysis of the PAHs source in the sediment demonstrated that the PAHs come from pyrogenic and petrogenic origin. Risk assessment showed PAHs threshold concentrations to occasionally be exceeded in the study area.     

High cyst concentrations of the potentially toxic dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense species complex in Bedford Basin,Halifax, Nova Scotia,Canada

We report a large cyst bed of the potentially toxic and bloom-forming dinoflagellate Alexandrium tamarense species complex in bottom sediments from the port of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. The average cyst concentrations of that species ranged from 4033 ± 2647 to 220 872 ± 148 086 cysts g^?1 of dry sediments and the highest concentrations were found near ship terminals in Bedford Basin. Although this species is endemic to this region, our work strongly suggests that some of the cysts of A. tamarense species complex found in the port of Halifax were introduced through discharged ballast water and sediments.     

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface sediments of the East China Sea and their relationship with carbonaceous materials

This study measured concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface sediments in the East China Sea (ECS) to investigate possible sources and fate of PAHs. Total concentration of PAHs in the sediments of the ECS ranged from 22 to 244 ng g⁻¹, with the highest levels in the coastal area and outer shelf. The observed PAH results showed elevated levels in both inner and outer shelf areas, a finding that is different from predictions by an ocean circulation model, suggesting that terrestrial sources are important for PAH contaminations in the ECS, while sediment resuspension, tidal changes and lateral transport may be important in affecting the distribution of PAHs in the outer shelf. The distribution of PAHs in the surface sediments of the ECS is similar to the distribution of carbonaceous materials (e.g., particulate organic carbon and black carbon), suggesting that carbonaceous materials may strongly affect the distribution of PAHs.     

Occurrence and distribution of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in surface sediments of San Diego Bay marinas

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) have garnered much attention due to their bioaccumulation, carcinogenic properties, and persistence in the environment. Investigation of the spatial distribution, composition, and sources of PAHs in sediments of three recreational marinas in San Diego Bay, California revealed significant differences among marinas, with concentrations in one site exceeding 16,000 ng g^? 1. ‘Hotspots’ of PAH concentration suggest an association with stormwater outfalls draining into the basins. High-molecular weight PAHs (4–6 rings) were dominant (> 86%); the average percentage of potentially carcinogenic PAHs was high in all sites (61.4–70%) but ecotoxicological risks varied among marinas. Highly toxic benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) was the main contributor (> 90%) to the total toxic equivalent quantity (TEQ) in marinas. PAHs in San Diego Bay marina sediments appear to be derived largely from pyrogenic sources, potentially from combustion products that reach the basins by aerial deposition and stormwater drainage from nearby streets and parking lots.     

Distribution,origin, and potential toxicological significance of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in sediments of Kaohsiung Harbor,Taiwan

Sediment samples were collected from 12 locations of Kaohsiung Harbor, Taiwan and analyzed for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Total PAH concentrations varied from 472 to 16,201 ng g⁻¹ dry weight. The highest PAH concentrations were from the industrial zone docks situated in south Kaohsiung Harbor. Diagnostic ratios showed that the possible source of PAHs in the industrial zone dock could be coal combustion while in the other zones it could be petroleum combustion. The toxic equivalent concentrations (TEQ^carc) of PAHs varied from 55 to 1964 ng TEQ g⁻¹ dry weight. Higher total TEQ^carc values were found at industrial zone docks (from 1404 to 1964 ng TEQ g⁻¹ dry weight). As compared with the US Sediment Quality Guidelines (SQGs), the observed levels of PAHs at industrial zone docks exceeded the effects range low (ERL), and could thus cause acute biological damage. However, the lower levels of PAHs at the other zones would probably not exert adverse biological effects.     

Adsorption behaviour of dibutyl phthalate on marine sediments

Laboratory experiments were carried out to investigate the adsorption behaviour of dibutyl phthalate (DBP) on marine sediments collected from five different sites in Victoria Harbour, Hong Kong. DBP adsorption can be well described by the Langmuir isotherm. The maximum DBP adsorption capacity (Q_max) of the marine sediments ranges from 53 to 79 mg g⁻¹, which has a positive correlation with their organic content. Around 90% of the organic can be removed from the sediments with treatment by H₂O₂ oxidation, and the Q_max then decreases to a range between 13 and 22 mg g⁻¹. The black carbon content of the sediments has a much greater DBP adsorption capacity than does the natural organic matter of the sediments. The amount of DBP adsorbed on the sediments increases as the salinity of the marine water increases.     

Latitudinal patterns of export production recorded in surface sediments of the Chilean Patagonian fjords (41–55°S) as a response to water column productivity

The Chilean Patagonian fjords region (41–56°S) is characterized by highly complex geomorphology and hydrographic conditions, and strong seasonal and latitudinal patterns in precipitation, freshwater discharge, glacier coverage, and light regime; all of these directly affect biological production in the water column. In this study, we compiled published and new information on water column properties (primary production, nutrients) and surface sediment characteristics (biogenic opal, organic carbon, molar C/N, bulk sedimentary δ¹³C_org) from the Chilean Patagonian fjords between 41°S and 55°S, describing herein the latitudinal pattern of water column productivity and its imprint in the underlying sediments. Based on information collected at 188 water column and 118 sediment sampling sites, we grouped the Chilean fjords into four main zones: Inner Sea of Chiloé (41° to ～44°S), Northern Patagonia (44° to ～47°S), Central Patagonia (48–51°S), and Southern Patagonia (Magellan Strait region between 52° and 55°S). Primary production in the Chilean Patagonian fjords was the highest in spring–summer, reflecting the seasonal pattern of water column productivity. A clear north–south latitudinal pattern in primary production was observed, with the highest average spring and summer estimates in the Inner Sea of Chiloé (2427 and 5860 mg C m^?2 d^?1) and Northern Patagonia (1667 and 2616 mg C m^?2 d^?1). This pattern was closely related to the higher availability of nutrients, greater solar radiation, and extended photoperiod during the productive season in these two zones. The lowest spring value was found in Caleta Tortel, Central Patagonia (91 mg C m^?2 d^?1), a site heavily influenced by glacier meltwater and river discharge loaded with glacial sediments. Biogenic opal, an important constituent of the Chilean fjord surface sediments (Si_OPAL ～1–13%), reproduced the general north–south pattern of primary production and was directly related to water column silicic acid concentrations. Surface sediments were also rich in organic carbon content and the highest values corresponded to locations far away from glacier influence, sites within fjords, and/or semi-enclosed and protected basins, reflecting both autochthonous (water column productivity) and allochthonous sources (contribution of terrestrial organic matter from fluvial input to the fjords). A gradient was observed from the more oceanic sites to the fjord heads (west–east) in terms of bulk sedimentary δ¹³C_org and C/N ratios; the more depleted (δ¹³C_org ?26‰) and higher C/N (23) values corresponded to areas close to rivers and glaciers. A comparison of the Chilean Patagonian fjords with other fjord systems in the world revealed high variability in primary production for all fjord systems as well as similar surface sediment geochemistry due to the mixing of marine and terrestrial organic carbon.     

40Ar/39Ar temporal framework for the Alleret maar lacustrine sequence (French Massif-Central): Volcanological and paleoclimatic implications

The Alleret maar (Massif Central, France) is part of the few Western European early middle Pleistocene lacustrine sequences. In the AL3 core several new ash layers were recovered in the 10 first meters of the sedimentary filling. We obtained three ⁴⁰Ar/³⁹Ar ages, which range from 683 ± 5 ka (MSWD: 1.2, n = 17) to 722 ± 6 ka (MSWD: 3.2, n = 18). All the studied ash layers belong to the Super-Besse eruptive cycle of the Sancy volcano. Based on the chronostratigraphy that we have derived we estimate that the age of the main eruption could correspond to the Sancy volcano caldera formation at 725 ka close to the end of MIS 18 and that the Super-Besse explosive episode duration lasted only about 40 ka. The time framework we build evidences that the Alleret lacustrine sequence represents a time interval of probably 180 ka spanning from MIS 18 to MIS 14. This sequence offers the first well constrained comparison between terrestrial environmental history and that preserved in marine sediments during the Mid-Pleistocene Revolution.     

Growth,abundance, morphometric and metabolic parameters of three populations of Diplodon chilensis subject to different levels of natural and anthropogenic organic matter input in a glaciar lake of North Patagonia

Three populations of Diplodon chilensis (Hiridae, Bivalvia) from North Patagonia (Lacar lake, Argentina) have been studied to determine how organic matter (OM) influence their growth, density, morphometric and metabolic parameters in two pristine sites (Yuco and Nonthué) and in a growing touristic locality (San Martín de los Andes Bay, site SMA) affected by urban discharges. In Nonthué (chemical and biological oxygen demand ratio COD/BOD ratio of 4.7), a dense neighboring forest provides higher quantities of vegetal detritus compared to Yuco, while in SMA the OM input increase is related to anthropogenic impact, mainly sewage discharges, which is more biodegradable (COD/BOD ratio of 1.7). Our results show that population's size distribution and growth rates are affected positively by increased OM, independently of its natural or anthropogenic origin. The modal shell length interval for SMA and Nonthué is two-fold higher (70 mm), in agreement to the growth rate increase (k = 0.079), compared to Yuco (35 mm, k = 0.045). The morphometric relationships between size–size and size–mass show a higher slope for SMA and Nonthué, which underline allometric differences between these two populations and the Yuco's one. The lower population densities in both sites (SMA 33 ind./m² and Nonthué 76 ind./m²) compare to Yuco (176 ind./m²) and the absence of individuals younger than 7 and 5 years old, respectively, in SMA and Nonthué could be related to the higher allochthonous OM content in the sediments and total suspended solids in water. Increased OM due to urban pollution in SMA bivalves leads to higher oxidative damage to lipids, which is not counterbalanced by the higher detoxification enzyme glutathione-S-transferase activity. Hence, we can conclude that pollution would explain the drastic reduction in population density, probably related to a high impair in the juvenile's survival/recruitment, the higher observed mortality and the lower population longevity. When increased OM is supply by the forest, like in Nonthué, this has less negative effect on population density and no effect on longevity at all. However, a negative effect of oxygen depletion due to increased OM (either anthropogenic or natural) on juvenile survival cannot be discarded, but further studies should be carried out to support this idea.     

Content and distribution of trace metals in surface sediments from the northern Bering Sea,Chukchi Sea and adjacent Arctic areas

Concentrations of trace metals (Zn, Cr, Cu, V, Cd and Pb), total organic carbon (TOC), black carbon (BC) and their granulometry were examined in 25 surface sediment samples from the northern Bering Sea, Chukchi Sea and adjacent areas. Trace metal concentrations in the sediments varied from 21.06–168.21 mg kg⁻¹ for Zn, 8.91–46.94 mg kg⁻¹ for Cr, 2.69–49.39 mg kg⁻¹ for Cu, 32.46–185.54 mg kg⁻¹ for V, 0.09–0.92 mg kg⁻¹ for Cd, and 0.95–15.25 mg kg⁻¹ for Pb. The geoaccumulation index (I_geo) indicated that trace metal contamination (Zn and Cd) existed in some stations of the study area. The distribution of grain size plays an important role in influencing the distribution of trace metals (Zn, Cr, Cu, V, and Pb) in sediments from the Chukchi Sea and adjacent areas.     

Coda-Q and its lapse time dependence analysis in the interaction zone of the Dinarides,the Alps and the Pannonian basin

The single backscattering model was used to estimate total attenuation of coda waves (Q_c) of local earthquakes recorded on eight seismological stations in the complex area of the western continental Croatia. We estimated Q₀ and n, parameters of the frequency dependent coda-Q using the relation Q_c = Q₀fⁿ. Lapse time dependence of these parameters was studied using a constant 30 s long time window that was slid along the coda of seismograms. Obtained Q_c were distributed into classes according to their lapse time, t_L. For t_L = 20–50 s we estimated Q₀ = 45–184 and n = 0.49–0.94, and for t_L = 60–100 s we obtained Q₀ = 119–316 and n = 0.37–0.82. There is a tendency of decrease of parameter n with increasing Q₀, and vice versa. The rates of change of both Q₀ and n seem to decrease for lapse times larger than 50–80 s, indicating an alteration in rock properties controlling coda attenuation at depths of about 100–160 km. A very good correlation was found between the frequency dependence parameter n and the Moho depths for lapse times of 50, 60 and 70 s.     

Distribution and source apportionments of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in mariculture sediments from the Pearl River Delta,South China

Surface and core sediments collected from six mariculture farms in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) were analyzed to evaluate contamination levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The ∑PCBs (37 congeners) concentrations ranged from 5.10 to 11.0 ng g⁻¹ (mean 7.96 ng g⁻¹) in surface and 3.19 to 22.1 ng g⁻¹ (mean 7.75 ng g⁻¹) in core sediments, respectively. The concentrations were significantly higher than that measured in the sediments of their corresponding reference sites, whereby the average enrichment percentages were 62.0% and 42.7% in surface and core sediments, respectively. Significant correlations (R² = 0.77, p < 0.05) of PCB homologue group proportions between fish feeds and surface mariculture sediments suggested that fish feed input was probably the main source for the enrichment of PCBs. Due to the fact that PCBs could be transferred along food chains, PCB contamination in fish feeds and mariculture sediments should not be overlooked.     

Century-long record of Mo isotopic composition in sediments of a seasonally anoxic estuary (Chesapeake Bay)

A double-spike method was used to obtain Mo isotope data for sediments and waters of the seasonally anoxic Chesapeake Bay, and its primary tributary, the Susquehanna River. The dissolved Mo distribution in the estuary is non-conservative, reflecting minor Mo loss to the sediments, although removal of Mo to the sediments does not have a large influence on the isotopic composition of the water column. The δ⁹⁸Mo of dissolved Mo in most of the estuary is dominated by seawater. Six samples with salinity > 15 have an average δ⁹⁸Mo = + 2.17‰ (± 0.12), which agrees well with a δ⁹⁸Mo value for the CASS-4 seawater standard of + 2.23‰. A single sample of Susquehanna River water has a δ⁹⁸Mo of + 1.02‰, consistent with recent findings of positive δ⁹⁸Mo in rivers worldwide. Susquehanna river sediments, in contrast, have δ⁹⁸Mo ～ ? 0.1‰. The difference between the river water and sediment values implies that isotopic fractionation occurs within the river basin. The δ⁹⁸Mo values for estuarine sediments are offset from values in the overlying water. Most samples deposited before 1925 have δ⁹⁸Mo less than 0‰, similar to the Susquehanna sediments. Subsequently, there is an increase in the variability of δ⁹⁸Mo, with values ranging up to + 0.8‰. The transition to increased variability coincides with the onset of authigenic Mo deposition, which was previously attributed to escalating summertime anoxia. Authigenic Mo concentrations correlate poorly with δ⁹⁸Mo in core samples, suggesting that independent mechanisms influence the two parameters. Authigenic Mo concentrations may be controlled by shifting pore water H₂S levels, while δ⁹⁸Mo may be primarily affected by annual variations in Mn refluxing.     

Seasonal variability of primary production in a fjord ecosystem of the Chilean Patagonia: Implications for the transfer of carbon within pelagic food webs

We characterized the seasonal cycle of productivity in Reloncaví Fjord (41°30′S), Chilean Patagonia. Seasonal surveys that included measurements of gross primary production, community respiration, bacterioplankton secondary production, and sedimentation rates along the fjord were combined with continuous records of water-column temperature variability and wind forcing, as well as satellite-derived data on regional patterns of wind stress, sea surface temperatures, and surface chlorophyll concentrations. The hydrography and perhaps fjord productivity respond to the timing and intensity of wind forcing over a larger region. Seasonal changes in the direction and intensity of winds, along with a late-winter improvement in light conditions, may determine the timing of phytoplankton blooms and potentially modulate productivity cycles in the region.Depth-integrated gross primary production estimates were higher (0.4–3.8 g C m^?2 d^?1) in the productive season (October, February, and May), and lower (0.1–0.2 g C m^?2 d^?1) in the non-productive season (August). These seasonal changes were also reflected in community respiration and bacterioplankton production rates, which ranged, respectively, from 0.3 to 4.8 g C m^?2 d^?1 and 0.05 to 0.4 g C m^?2 d^?1 during the productive and non-productive seasons and from 0.05 to 0.6 g C m^?2 d^?1 and 0.05 to 0.2 g C m^?2 d^?1 during the same two periods. We found a strong, significant correlation between gross primary production and community respiration (Spearman, r=0.95; p<0.001; n=12), which suggests a high degree of coupling between the synthesis of organic matter and its usage by the planktonic community. Similarly, strong correlations were found between bacterioplankton secondary production and both gross primary production (Spearman, r=0.7, p<0.05, n=9) and community respiration (Spearman, r=0.8, p<0.05, n=9), indicating that bacterioplankton may be processing an important fraction (8–59%) of the organic matter produced by phytoplankton in Reloncaví Fjord. In winter, bacterial carbon utilization as a percentage of gross primary production was >100%, suggesting the use of allochthonous carbon sources by bacterioplankton when the levels of gross primary production are low. Low primary production rates were associated with a greater contribution of small cells to autotrophic biomass, highlighting the importance of small-sized plankton and bacteria for carbon cycling and fluxes during the less productive winter months. Fecal pellet sedimentation was minimal during this period, also suggesting that most of the locally produced organic carbon is recycled within the microbial loop. During the productive season, on the other hand, the area exhibited a great potential to export organic matter, be it to higher trophic levels or vertically towards the bottom.     

Simulating wind-affected snow accumulations at catchment to basin scales

In non-forested mountain regions, wind plays a dominant role in determining snow accumulation and melt patterns. A new, computationally efficient algorithm for distributing the complex and heterogeneous effects of wind on snow distributions was developed. The distribution algorithm uses terrain structure, vegetation, and wind data to adjust commonly available precipitation data to simulate wind-affected accumulations. This research describes model development and application in three research catchments in the Reynolds Creek Experimental Watershed in southwest Idaho, USA. All three catchments feature highly variable snow distributions driven by wind. The algorithm was used to derive model forcings for Isnobal, a mass and energy balance distributed snow model. Development and initial testing took place in the Reynolds Mountain East catchment (0.36 km²) where R² values for the wind-affected snow distributions ranged from 0.50 to 0.67 for four observation periods spanning two years. At the Upper Sheep Creek catchment (0.26 km²) R² values for the wind-affected model were 0.66 and 0.70. These R² values matched or exceeded previously published cross-validation results from regression-based statistical analyses of snow distributions in similar environments. In both catchments the wind-affected model accurately located large drift zones, snow-scoured slopes, and produced melt patterns consistent with observed streamflow. Models that did not account for wind effects produced relatively homogenous SWE distributions, R² values approaching 0.0, and melt patterns inconsistent with observed streamflow. The Dobson Creek (14.0 km²) application incorporated elevation effects into the distribution routine and was conducted over a two-dimensional grid of 6.67 × 10⁵ pixels. Comparisons with satellite-derived snow-covered-area again demonstrated that the model did an excellent job locating regions with wind-affected snow accumulations. This final application demonstrated that the computational efficiency and modest data requirements of this approach are ideally suited for large-scale operational applications.     

Occurrence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in seawater from the Western Taiwan Strait,China

Seawater samples (including surface water and bottom water) were collected from the Western Taiwan Strait (WTS) during June 24–25, 2009; polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in dissolved phase and particulate phase were analyzed, respectively. The results showed that the total concentrations of PAHs in the dissolved phase and particulate phase were ranged from 12.3 to 58.0 ng L⁻¹, and 10.3–45.5 ng L⁻¹, which showed a low-middle contamination level in the China Seas. The spatial variability of PAHs may be related to the complicated currents of WTS, especially the Min-Zhe coastal current. PAHs diagnostic ratios suggested that PAHs mainly originated from the inputs of pyrolytic (combustion) sources, which might be contributed to land-based atmospheric deposition. The particle-water partition coefficients of individual PAH showed that partitions were not correlated with suspended particulate matter content, dissolved organic carbon or salinity, similar to the Yangtze coastal area.