| Abstract: | In the framework of the Human Biology and Medicine Project of the National Program for Research in Antarctica (Programma Nazionale di Ricerche in Antartide, PNRA) a study was undertaken to explore the suitability of trace element determination in human hair as a tool for the early detection of the impact of extreme environmental conditions on the health of members of the Italian and French expeditions. This study included three campaigns, namely, the 1995–1996 expedition to the Italian base of Terra Nova Bay, as well as the 1997–1998 and 1998–1999 expeditions to both the Italian base of Terra Nova Bay and the Italian–French base of Dome C. Sampling of hair of participants in the expeditions was carried out both prior to departure and at the end of the period spent at the bases. As regards storage, pre-treatment and analysis of hair samples they were performed in accordance with previously established procedures. Acid-assisted microwave digestion was adopted as the best approach for preparing solutions for subsequent analysis by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. In the first part of this study, only the elements Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg and Zn were selected, while at a later stage it was decided to also include Co, Cr, Mn, Mo and Ni. Experimental results were subjected to basic statistical analysis to detect possible significant differences in element concentrations that occurred during the sojourn at the bases, with a view to identify possible remedial action to minimize adverse consequences. |
