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The purpose of this study was to investigate the sublethal Co toxicity on rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Trout were exposed to Co and selected parameters were evaluated at intervals of 1, 15 and 30 days. Fish exposed to higher levels of Co grew slower than fish exposed to lower levels of Co. Weight gain, specific growth rate (SGR) decreased linearly with the increase of cobalt in the water. The body condition factor (CF) of fish reared in water with low cobalt concentration decreased substantially but this decrease was not significant for fish exposed to higher cobalt concentration. The values of the feed conversion ratio (FCR) increased in fish exposed to higher levels of Co. Co significantly changed the activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and decreased at day 30, and in both cases this decrease was more remarkable at day 15 so that the level of AST and ALT reached the control value at day 30. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) level also showed a remarkable 15-day decline. There was a significant increase in glucose (G) concentration in both Co-exposed groups on day 15. However, serum cholesterol (Chl) was significantly reduced on day 15 and increased on day 30; there were no significant differences in both exposed Co-groups. The triglyceride (TG) level also decreased substantially. There was no regular pattern of total protein (TP) in the serum, so that no significant differences were found in the level of TP between low and high-exposed fish. In summary, this study suggests that exposure of essential trace elements such as cobalt may change growth and biochemical parameters, and that measurement of these parameters may be used in toxicological studies to determine the general health status of fish.

Streptococcus suis is a zoonotic pathogen causing serious infections in swine and humans. Although metals are essential for life, excess amounts of metals are toxic to bacteria. Transcriptome-level data of the mechanisms for resistance to metal toxicity in S. suis are available for no metals other than zinc. Herein, we explored the transcriptome-level changes in S. suis in response to ferrous iron and cobalt toxicity by RNA sequencing. Many genes were differentially expressed in the presence of excess ferrous iron and cobalt. Most genes in response to cobalt toxicity showed the same expression trends as those in response to ferrous iron toxicity. qRT-PCR analysis of the selected genes confirmed the accuracy of RNA sequencing results. Bioinformatic analysis of the differentially expressed genes indicated that ferrous iron and cobalt have similar effects on the cellular processes of S. suis. Ferrous iron treatment resulted in down-regulation of several oxidative stress tolerance-related genes and up-regulation of the genes in an amino acid ABC transporter operon. Expression of several genes in the arginine deiminase system was down-regulated after ferrous iron and cobalt treatment. Collectively, our results suggested that S. suis alters the expression of multiple genes to respond to ferrous iron and cobalt toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal stress affects crop growth and yields as wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth and development are negatively affected under heavy metal stress. The study examined the effect of cobalt chloride (CoCl2) stress on wheat growth and development. To alleviate this problem, a pot experiment was done to analyze the role of sulfur-rich thiourea (STU) in accelerating the defense system of wheat plants against cobalt toxicity. The experimental treatments were, i) Heavy metal stress (a) control and (b) Cobalt stress (300 µM), ii) STU foliar applications; (a) control and (b) 500 µM single dose was applied after seven days of stress, and iii) Wheat varieties (a) FSD-2008 and (b) Zincol-2016. The results revealed that cobalt stress decreased chlorophyll a by 10%, chlorophyll b by 16%, and carotenoids by 5% while foliar application of STU increased these photosynthetic pigments by 16%, 15%, and 15% respectively under stress conditions as in contrast to control. In addition, cobalt stress enhances hydrogen peroxide production by 11% and malondialdehyde (MDA) by 10%. In comparison, STU applications at 500 µM reduced the production of these reactive oxygen species by 5% and by 20% by up-regulating the activities of antioxidants. Results have revealed that the activities of SOD improved by 29%, POD by 25%, and CAT by 28% under Cobalt stress. Furthermore, the foliar application of STU significantly increased the accumulation of osmoprotectants as TSS was increased by 23% and proline was increased by 24% under cobalt stress. Among wheat varieties, FSD-2008 showed better adaptation under Cobalt stress by showing enhanced photosynthetic pigments and antioxidant activities compared to Zincol-2016. In conclusion, the foliar-applied STU can alleviate the negative impacts of Cobalt stress by improving plant physiological attributes and upregulating the antioxidant defense system in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Imaging studies of cobalt toxicity from cobalt-chromium alloy arthroprosthetics have focused on the local intra-articular and peri-articular presentation from failing joint replacements. Most studies investigating neurological findings have been small case series focused on the clinical findings of memory loss, diminished executive function, tremor, hearing and vision loss, depression, and emotional lability. This study utilizes software-based quantitative analysis of brain metabolism to assess the degree of hypometabolism and areas of susceptibility, determine if a pattern of involvement exists, and measure reversibility of findings after prosthetic revision to cobalt-free appliances. Methods: Over 48 months, 247 consecutive patients presenting to an orthopedic clinic with an arthroprosthetic joint containing any cobalt-chromium part were screened with whole blood and urine cobalt levels. A clinically validated inventory of 10 symptoms was obtained. Symptomatic patients with a blood cobalt level above 0.4 mcg/L or urine cobalt greater than 1 mcg/L underwent F-18 FDG PET brain imaging. Analysis was performed with FDA-approved quantitative brain analysis software with the pons as the reference region. Control group was the normal brain atlas within the software. Results: Of the 247 consecutively screened patients, 123 had blood and urine cobalt levels above the threshold. The 69 scanned patients had statistically significant regional hypometabolism and higher symptoms inventory. Fifty-seven patients were retained in the study. Distribution of hypometabolism was in descending order: temporal, frontal, Broca's areas, anterior cingulate, parietal, posterior cingulate, visual, sensorimotor, thalamic, and lastly caudate. Metal-on-metal (MoM) and metal-on-plastic (MoP) joint replacements produced similar patterns of hypometabolism. Of 15 patients with necessary revision surgery, 8 demonstrated improved metabolism when later re-scanned. Conclusion: All scanned patients had regions of significant hypometabolism. Neurological toxicity from elevated systemic cobalt levels following arthroprosthetic joint replacement has a pattern of regional susceptibility similar to heavy metals and solvents, differing from classical dementias and may occur at blood and urine cobalt levels as low as 0.4 mcg/L and 1 mcg/L, respectively. Presently accepted thresholds for cobalt exposure and monitoring may need revision. Quantitative F-18 FDG PET brain imaging may aid in the decision process for treatment options and timing of possible medical versus surgical intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exogenous application of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) has previously been reported to trigger plant tolerance against a variety of environmental stresses. The present study was planned to investigate the possible role/s of exogenously applied SNP (50 or 100 μM) in alleviating cadmium (Cd)-induced effects on physio-biochemical processes, yield attributes, and grain quality traits of three fragrant rice cultivars, viz., Meixiangzhan-2 (MXZ), Guixiangzhan (GXZ), and Xiangyaxiangzhan (XYXZ) under 50 mg Cd kg−1 of soil. The results revealed that foliar spray of SNP (50 or 100 μM) on Cd-stressed rice plants reduced oxidative stress (lower hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), and electrolyte leakage (EL)) and improved the photosynthetic apparatus through higher chlorophyll contents, gas exchange attributes, and intact chloroplast configurations, and reduced Cd concentration in the leaves and grains of aromatic rice cultivars. The reduced levels of cellular ROS, MDA, and EL were related to the endogenous NO-mediated improvement in the activity of anti-oxidative enzymes and those involved during the ascorbate–glutathione cycle. However, among the different SNP levels, the foliar spraying of 50 μM of SNP was recorded to be the best treatment for fragrant rice growth, which increased grain yield by 42.06%, 46.03%, and 31.21%, and the quality trait of 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) content by 43.12%, 55.84%, and 35.72% in MXZ, GXZ, and XYXZ respectively, suggesting that GXZ is more responsive to SNP than MXZ and XYXZ fragrant rice cultivars. Collectively, our results deduced that cultivating the GXZ fragrant rice cultivar along with foliar application of 50 μM of SNP could sustain the grain yield and quality features of aromatic rice cultivation in heavy metal (especially Cd)-polluted soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metals are integral components of the natural environment, and their presence in the food supply is inevitable and complex. While essential metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, and copper are crucial for various physiological functions and must be consumed through the diet, others, like lead, mercury, and cadmium, are toxic even at low concentrations and pose serious health risks. This study comprehensively analyzes the presence, importance, and consequences of metals in the food chain. We explore the pathways through which metals enter the food supply, their distribution across different food types, and the associated health implications. By examining current regulatory standards for maximum allowable levels of various metals, we highlight the importance of ensuring food safety and protecting public health. Furthermore, this research underscores the need for continuous monitoring and management of metal content in food, especially as global agricultural and food production practices evolve. Our findings aim to inform dietary recommendations, food fortification strategies, and regulatory policies, ultimately contributing to safer and more nutritionally balanced diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As industrial and agricultural activities intensify and technology rapidly advances, soil pollution has escalated to alarming levels. The increasing contamination of agricultural areas and the crops cultivated therein has emerged as a significant contemporary issue. Phytoremediation, the use of plants to remove pollutants, is a promising method for mitigating soil heavy metal contamination. This study investigates the bioaccumulation capacity of purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.), a potential phytoremediator, in soils artificially contaminated with cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu). The purslane was cultivated under controlled conditions with varying doses of Cd, Ni, and Cu. After 55 days, the plants were harvested and analysed for heavy metal concentrations in their roots, stems, and leaves. The results demonstrated a direct correlation between environmental heavy metal concentration and plant heavy metal content, with the most significant accumulation occurring in the roots. The leaf chlorophyll content was adversely affected by increased Cd, Ni, and Cu applications. The highest Cu, Ni, and Cd contents were found in the roots at 140 mg kg-1 Cu, 80 mg kg-1 Ni, and 20 mg kg-1 Cd applications, respectively. The bio-transfer coefficient (BTC), a measure of heavy metal transport from the root region to the leaves, was calculated. The BTC values ranged from 0.84-1.09 for Cu, 0.39-0.84 for Ni, and >1 for Cd at the Control and 5 mg Cd kg-1 treatments. These findings suggest that purslane has potential for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils, although the bioaccumulation and bio-transfer of heavy metals are dependent on the specific metal and its concentration in the soil. The study also highlights the potential risks associated with the consumption of plants grown in heavy metal-contaminated soils, as heavy metals can accumulate in different plant tissues, potentially entering the food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater discharges from industrial processes typically include elevated concentrations of contaminants, which largely consist of potentially harmful chemicals such as heavy metals. These contaminants are characterized by their slow rate of decomposition. Hence, the removal of these metallic ions from effluents poses a challenge. Among different treatments, the adsorption approach has considerable potential due to its ability to effectively eliminate both soluble and insoluble pollutants from effluent, even at lower levels of concentration. Of various wastes, fly ash (FA) material has been the subject of attention because it is abundant, has favorable qualities, and contains a high percentage of minerals. This review investigates multiple facets, with a specific focus on the application of FA, an industrial byproduct, as an adsorbent in removing heavy metals. A comprehensive examination was conducted on a range of concerns pertaining to the pollution caused by metallic ions, including the underlying causes, levels of contamination, health implications of heavy metals, and removal methods. Multiple factors were found to affect the adsorption process. Of all the factors, the pH value considerably influences the elimination of heavy metals. An acidic pH range of 2.5–4.5 was found to be optimal for achieving the highest possible elimination of As(V), Cu(II), Hg(II), and Cr(VI). The latter elimination rate reached 89% at the optimal pH level. Most heavy metals' adsorption isotherms conformed to the Langmuir or Freundlich models, while the pseudo-second-order kinetics provided a satisfactory match for their removal. Using a raw FA, adsorption capacities were achieved in the removal of metallic ions, Ni(II), Pb(II), and Cr(VI), that ranged from 14.0 to 23.9 mg g−1. Meanwhile, the FA-zeolite showed a remarkable capacity to adsorb ions Mn(II), Ni(II), Cd(II), Cu(II), and Pb(II), with values ranging from about 31 to 66 mg g−1. The cost analysis showed that the treatment of FA is economically advantageous and may result in significant cost reductions in comparison to commercial adsorbents. In summary, FA is an inexpensive waste material with potential for water treatment applications and several other purposes due to its excellent chemical and mineralogical composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores recent advancements and innovative strategies in biosorption technology, with a particular focus on the removal of heavy metals, such as Cu(II), Pb(II), Cr(III), Cr(VI), Zn(II), and Ni(II), and a metalloid, As(V), from various sources. Detailed information on biosorbents, including their composition, structure, and performance metrics in heavy metal sorption, is presented. Specific attention is given to the numerical values of the adsorption capacities for each metal, showcasing the efficacy of biosorbents in removing Cu (up to 96.4%), Pb (up to 95%), Cr (up to 99.9%), Zn (up to 99%), Ni (up to 93.8%), and As (up to 92.9%) from wastewater and industrial effluents. In addition, the issue of biosorbent deactivation and failure over time is highlighted as it is crucial for the successful implementation of adsorption in practical applications. Such phenomena as blockage by other cations or chemical decomposition are reported, and chemical, thermal, and microwave treatments are indicated as effective regeneration techniques. Ongoing research should focus on the development of more resilient biosorbent materials, optimizing regeneration techniques, and exploring innovative approaches to improve the long-term performance and sustainability of biosorption technologies. The analysis showed that biosorption emerges as a promising strategy for alleviating pollutants in wastewater and industrial effluents, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to addressing water pollution challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticide residues and heavy metal content of cassava, yam, cocoyam, potato, water yam and carrot were evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The detected pesticide residues in the samples were 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, glyphosate, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), dichlorobiphenyl, aldrin, endosulfan, profenofos, g-chlordane, carbofuran, biphenyl, heptachlor, lindane and t-Nonachlor. The concentration of HCB ranged between 0.0799 ± 0.06 mg/kg and 0.1596 ± 0.00 mg/kg, which was greater than the permitted maximum limit of 0.5 mg/kg established by the US Environmental Protection Agency. The concentration of aldrin and profenofos detected was lower than the predetermined maximum allowed limits. Endosulfan concentrations in cocoyam (0.2500 mg/kg) and potato (0.3265 mg/kg) were higher than the limits allowed by the Canadian Department of Industrial Research. The heavy metals detected in these samples include cobalt, nickel, lead, manganese, chromium, arsenic and mercury in at least one of the samples evaluated. There was not much difference between the concentration of cobalt in yam (0.036 mg/kg) and the maximum allowed concentration (0.043 mg/kg). Lead was detected in potatoes and carrots but was below detectable concentration in cassava, yam, cocoyam and water yam. Similarly, cocoyam was found to have a significant mercury content (0.658 mg/kg), but mercury content was below detectable concentrations in cassava, yam and water yam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Although milk and dairy products are almost complete food, they can contain toxic heavy elements with potential hazards for consumers. This review aims to provide a comprehensive report on the occurrence, concentration, and health risks of selected heavy metals in pasteurized and sterilized milk recorded worldwide. Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) was used to develop this systematic review. Databases included the Web of Knowledge, Scopus, Scientific Information Database, Google Scholar, and PubMed from inception until January 2023. Keywords related to the terms "Heavy metals", "Arsenic" and "Pasteurized and sterilized milk" and "Risk Assessment" were used. The potential health risks to human health from milk daily consumption were estimated using extracted data on heavy metals concentration based on metal estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient, and carcinogenic risk. Results: A total of 48 potentially relevant articles with data on 981 milk samples were included in the systematic review. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy, inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry were the most common valid methods to measure heavy metals in milk samples. Following the initial evaluation, Cu, Cd, Zn, and Pb were the most contaminants, which exceeded the maximum permissible criteria in 94%, 67%, 62%, and 46% of the milk samples tested. Relying on target hazard quotient and carcinogenic risk results, milk consumers in 33(68.75%) and 7 (14.5%) studies were exposed to moderate to high levels of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk, respectively. The highest level of risk is due to the consumption of pasteurized and sterilized milk detected in Pakistan, Brazil, Egypt, Slovakia, and Turkey. Conclusion: The elevated levels of heavy metals in milk samples, especially Pb and Cd is a public health concern; therefore, maximum control and strict regulations must be adopted to decrease heavy metals contaminants in the dairy industry. Further studies are required to develop safe milk processing and handling methods for the decontamination of heavy metals in milk and its products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study marks a pioneering effort in utilizing Vachellia tortilis subsp. raddiana (Savi) Kyal. & Boatwr., (commonly known as acacia raddiana) leaves as both a reducing and stabilizing agent in the green "eco-friendly" synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The research aimed to optimize the AgNPs synthesis process by investigating the influence of pH, temperature, extract volume, and contact time on both the reaction rate and the resulting AgNPs' morphology as well as discuss the potential of AgNPs in detecting some heavy metals. Various characterization methods, such as UV–vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR), Zeta sizer, EDAX, and transmitting electron microscopy (TEM), were used to thoroughly analyze the properties of the synthesized AgNPs. The XRD results verified the successful production of AgNPs with a crystallite size between 20 to 30 nm. SEM and TEM analyses revealed that the AgNPs are primarily spherical and rod-shaped, with sizes ranging from 8 to 41 nm. Significantly, the synthesis rate of AgNPs was notably higher in basic conditions (pH 10) at 70 °C. These results underscore the effectiveness of acacia raddiana as a source for sustainable AgNPs synthesis. The study also examined the AgNPs' ability to detect various heavy metal ions colorimetrically, including Hg2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, and Co2+. UV–Vis spectroscopy proved useful for this purpose. The color of AgNPs shifts from brownish-yellow to pale yellow, colorless, pale red, and reddish yellow when detecting Cu2+, Hg2+, Co2+, and Pb2+ ions, respectively. This change results in an alteration of the AgNPs' absorbance band, vanishing with Hg2+ and shifting from 423 to 352 nm, 438 nm, and 429 nm for Cu2+, Co2+, and Pb2+ ions, respectively. The AgNPs showed high sensitivity, with detection limits of 1.322 × 10–5 M, 1.37 × 10–7 M, 1.63 × 10–5 M, and 1.34 × 10–4 M for Hg2+, Cu2+, Pb2+, and Co2+, respectively. This study highlights the potential of using acacia raddiana for the eco-friendly synthesis of AgNPs and their effectiveness as environmental sensors for heavy metals, showcasing strong capabilities in colorimetric detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ellagic acid (EA) is a polyphenol extracted from many plants. EA modulates inflammatory mediators via antioxidant mechanisms, such as catalase (CAT) activities, superoxide dismutase (SOD), enhancement, increase in glutathione (GSH), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) suppression. EA has anti‐apoptotic properties that are thought to be mediated by regulating the expression of B‐cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl‐2), Bcl‐2‐associated X protein (Bax), and caspase‐3. In this article, we surveyed the literature dealing with the protective effects of EA against different heavy metals, drugs, and natural toxins. The findings indicated that EA has remarkable protective properties against various toxicants. Its protective effects were mostly mediated via normalizing lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammatory mediators, for example, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and IL‐1β. The results of this study showed that EA has significant protective effects against a varied range of compounds, either chemical or natural. These effects are mainly mediated via intensifying the antioxidant defense system. However, other mechanisms such as inhibition of inflammatory responses and suppression of apoptosis are important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Excessive presence of heavy metals in water sources can reduce water quality and harm human health. However, research on heavy metals from water sources for sanitation and hygiene purposes and drinking water in the Upper Citarum Watershed remains limited. This study focuses on the distribution of heavy metals and chemicals that have potential health risks. METHODS: Ten heavy metals, namely, lead, cadmium, chromium, copper, cobalt, iron, mercury, manganese, arsenic, and zinc, were analyzed. Groundwater samples were collected from 160 locations, and drinking water samples (for respondents who do not drink groundwater) were collected from 98 locations. Heavy metal concentrations were detected using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. FINDINGS: The levels of arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, iron, mercury, manganese, and lead exceeded the quality standards for drinking water, while those of arsenic and cobalt did not exceed the quality standards for water hygiene and sanitation. Arsenic and cobalt quality standards were more stringent for drinking water compared with those for water hygiene and sanitation. Lead-cadmium and iron-manganese in groundwater showed a positive Spearman correlation (p<0.05) and may originate from the same source. Copper and zinc did not exceed the quality standard in 100% of drinking water samples. Iron and zinc in groundwater differed significantly due to variations in topography and soil type (p<0.05). This study reveals that 6 out of 10 heavy metals are chemicals of potential concern and are sorted based on potential risks to health, that is, arsenic > mercury > lead > cobalt > manganese > cadmium. Ingestion is the main pathway for potential risk, and children are more likely to be at risk than adults. CONCLUSION: Stakeholders and decision makers must immediately implement sustainable actions to protect public health. Evaluation of water sources, technology, maintenance processes, and water quality should be conducted before and after technology use from Refill Drinking Water Depots to ensure that raw and processing water meets the quality standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are chemical elements with a toxic effect on the human body. The expansion of industries has led to significant increasing levels of these constituents in the environment. Intensive agriculture can also lead to an increased concentration of heavy metals as a result of using different fertilizers and pesticides. Heavy metal accumulation in soil and plants represents a serious issue because of the potential risks to consumers. There are several methods available for the removal of these toxic components from different substrates (chemical precipitation, electrodialysis, coagulation and flocculation, photocatalytic removal, and adsorption-based processes), but most procedures are expensive and difficult to perform. Thus, more research is needed on the development of low-cost methods in foods. This work represents a review on the heavy metal presence in different food substrates (such as fruits and vegetables, milk and dairy products, meat and meat derivatives, oils, and alcoholic beverages) and provides an overview of the current situation worldwide, taking into account the fact that risks for human health are induced by the intensification of industry and the high degree of pollution. Considering that the toxicological quality of food affects its acceptability, this work provides valuable data regarding the actual situation on the proposed topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to evaluate the presence of metal(loid)s in lubricating eye drops used in the treatment of dry eye disease. The concentrations of Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cu, Cr, Pb, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Se, V, and Zn were determined in 19 eye drop samples using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) values for the quantified elements ranged from 0.0002–0.0363 (mg/L) and 0.0007–0.1211 (mg/L), respectively. High values of concentrations of Al (2.382 µg/g), As (0.204 µg/g), Ba (0.056 µg/g), Cd (0.051 µg/g), Co (1.085 µg/g), Cr (0.020 µg/g), Cu (0.023 µg/g), Fe (0.453 µg/g), Mg (24.284 µg/g), Mn (0.014 µg/g), Mo (0.046 µg/g), Ni (0.071 µg/g), Pb (0.049 µg/g), Se (0.365 µg/g), V (0.083 µg/g), and Zn (0.552 µg/g) were quantified in samples of eye drops with and without preservatives. The concentrations of As (5 samples) and Cd (3 samples) were higher than those allowed by the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia for impurities (parenteral use). The value of Co content (µg/g) in a sample was higher than the value established by the International Council for Harmonization of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use (ICH Q3D (R2)) in the parenteral route. The daily eye drop instillation exposure (µg/day) was below the values from the parenteral-permitted daily exposure (PDE) set by the ICH Q3D guideline (R2). The presence of heavy metals in eye drops is an alert to regulatory agencies in several countries so that control and inspections can be carried out. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beeswax is a naturally occurring product that worker bees produce. Beeswax is used in a variety of industries and pharmaceuticals. Humans utilize it extensively in cosmetics, medicinal formulations, and food manufacturing. Beeswax is an essential component of advanced contemporary beekeeping. Beekeepers, in particular, utilize significant amounts of beeswax to make beeswax comb foundation. In its natural condition, beeswax is white, but it becomes yellow then dark in color when it comes into touch with honey and pollen. The ongoing use of wax comb in bee activities (such as brood rearing, storage honey and bee bread), combined with environmental factors such as heavy metal and pesticide residues, resulted in a black color. Because of heavy metals can accumulate in wax for decades, beeswax can be a helpful tool for gathering data on hazardous contaminants in the environment. Because of their lipid-based chemical composition, beeswax combs act as a sink for numerous ambient pollutants as well as poisons when in the hive. The current study aims to measure nine heavy metals and important elements, including iron (Fe), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and cobalt (Co) in beeswax collected in the Behaira governorate region of Egypt between 2018 and 2022. Sample collection was conducted each year in triplicate. The samples were analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The quantity of metals in beeswax at different ages differed significantly. Depending on the wax age, Fe has the highest concentration in the range of 2.068 to 5.041 ppm, while Cd has the lowest ratio at 0.024 to 0.054 ppm from the first to fifth years old of comb age. The findings showed that as beeswax combs aged, the concentration of heavy metals rose. According to the study, it should gradually recycle beeswax combs each year and also adding new foundations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceramic products are among the most frequently used food contact materials. Health risks associated with ceramic tableware usually arise from the migration of heavy metals. In this study, 767 pieces of ceramic tableware of different shapes and types were collected across China, and the migration levels of 18 elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Migration tests were conducted according to the Chinese National Food Safety Standard – Ceramic Ware (GB 4806.4) with microwaveable and non-microwavable samples under different conditions. The food consumption of consumers via different shapes of ceramic tableware was obtained through a self-reported web-based survey, and the estimated dietary intakes of the studied elements were calculated accordingly. The exposure assessment showed that certain metals leached from the ceramic tableware at levels of concern. In addition, the applicability of the migration experiment conditions for microwaveable ceramic ware in GB 4806.4 needs to be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was conducted with a view to evaluating heavy metal contamination of four selected fish species (Labeo rohita, Catla catla, Cirrhinus cirrhosus, and Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and the potential health risks of its consumers in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Twenty-one feed samples and eighty-four fish specimens were collected from seven different farms scattered across the Rajshahi district and subsequent screening of heavy metal was conducted through atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The heavy metal concentration of Pb, Co, Cr, Cd and Ni was found beyond the permissible limits in fish feed and raw fish with a strong correlative association of heavy metals between them. Metal pollution index revealed that C. cirrhosus was the most polluted species while L. rohita was the least. Health risk assessment was conducted by evaluating estimated daily intake (EDI), health risk index (HRI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target carcinogenic risk (TR). EDI of metal was higher in children, and according to HRI, they were at two to three times more risk compared to the adults. THQ of all the heavy metals across the selected species was found to be less than 1 demonstrating the absence of non-carcinogenic hazard for individual heavy metal intake. However, HI values indicated that the cumulative effect of those heavy metals might impart some degree of non-carcinogenic effect over lifelong exposure. TR values suggested that the carcinogenic effect of Pb remained negligible while Cr, Cd and Ni had low to moderate risk of developing cancer with a greater probability of its occurrence in women than men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nodal explants of Holarrhena pubescens, an important medicinal tree, were cultured on Murashige and Skoog's medium (MS) containing 15 µM BA (control) alone and on medium supplemented with different concentrations (0, 1, 5, 25, 50, 100 and 200 mg/L) of heavy metals such as NiCl2, CoCl2, As2O3 and CrO3 to study their toxic effect. After 28 days of treatments, the nodal segments were harvested to assess the average number of shoots per explants, average shoot length, malondialdehyde content, proline content, conessine accumulation and antioxidant enzymatic activity. Among all the metals tried, best morphogenic response was achieved at 5 mg/L CrO3 where 80% culture differentiated an average of 3.21 ± 0.08 shoots per explant having 0.95 ± 0.018 cm average shoot length. Highest concentration (200 mg/L) of all the heavy metals proved lethal for morphogenesis. Maximum inhibition in average shoot number and average shoot length was observed in nodal explants treated with 25 mg/L As2O3 where an average of 0.49 ± 0.047 shoots having an average shoot length of 0.3 ± 0.02 cm. Contrarily, addition of heavy metals in culture medium proved strong elicitors, exhibiting significant enhancement in the biosynthesis of conessine, an important bioactive compound. HPLC analysis of the crude extract of in vitro grown untreated nodal cultures revealed an average of 117.06 ± 2.59 µg/g d. w. of conessine, whereas those treated with 100 mg/L of CoCl2 accounted for 297.1 ± 7.76 µg/g d. w. (an increase of 156% over control). Among the heavy metals tried, CoCl2 proved to be the best for conessine enhancement which was in the order of CoCl2 > Cr2O3 > NiCl2 > As2O3 in the nodal explants. Concomitantly, MDA content, the antioxidant enzymes activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GR) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were also observed to be differentially expressed with the increase in the heavy metals concentration from 1 to 200 mg/L. Free proline, too, increased up to 3.5-fold over control. The results obtained during the present investigation revealed that the overall response of the nodal explants in terms of morphogenesis, conessine content and antioxidant enzyme activities was metal specific as well as dose dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water contamination is a big concern nowadays due to increased human activity and the quick expansion of modern industry and agriculture. In our current environment, heavy metal pollution has become a primary concern. Treatment of heavy metals is especially significant, because these metals absorb into biological cells and can lead to severe illness and disorders. Several studies have been conducted over the last several years to remove heavy metals from wastewater using various strategies and materials. Among those strategies, complexation's reaction and the electrochemical sensor are attractive because of their excellent metal selectivity, cost-effectiveness, short analytical time, and high removal efficiency. Polyoxometalates (POMs) are a group of metal–oxygen cluster compounds with extremely electronegative and oxo-enriched surfaces and variable structure and size. POMs have drawn much interest in removing toxins from wastewater due to their electrical and physical characteristics. The removal of heavy metals from wastewater is covered in this review using POM and POM-based MOF nanocomposites in various treatment methods like complexation and electrochemical sensor, which have the advantages of high removal efficiency, excellent metal selectivity, in-expansive, and rapid analytical times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban surface deposited sediments (USDS) are unique indicators of local pollution that pose a potential threat to the living environment and human health. Ekaterinburg is a highly populated metropolitan area in Russia with rapid urbanization and industrialization activities. In Ekaterinburg's residential areas, about 35, 12, and 16 samples are represented by green zones, roads, driveways, and sidewalks, respectively. The total concentrations of heavy metals was detected using a chemical analyzer inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Zn, Sn, Sb, and Pb have the highest concentrations in the green zone, while V, Fe, Co, and Cu represent the utmost values on roads. Moreover, Mn and Ni are the prevailing metals in the fine sand fraction of driveways along with sidewalks. Broadly, the high pollution in the studied zones is generated by anthropogenic activities and traffic emissions. The potential ecological risk (RI) was observed in high risk (IR > 600), even though the results of all heavy metals reveal no adverse health effects from the considered noncarcinogenic metal for adults and children by different exposure pathways except the children's exposure to Co in case of the dermal contact, where the HI values of Co for children in the studied zones are higher than the proposed level (> 1). In all urban zones, the total carcinogenic risk (TLCR) values are predicted as a high potential inhalation exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution of aquatic ecosystems is one of the major challenges affecting many countries of the world. Heavy metal pollutants, in particular, threaten the life of aquatic organisms (fauna and flora) and, more importantly, humans who consume aquatic products as a critical source of proteins. In the present study, the concentrations of selected heavy metals (cobalt- Co, Chromium-Cr, nickel- Ni and manganese- Mn) in Limnothrissa miodon, locally known as 'Kapenta' were assessed using the Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP AES) 4200 at the Zambia Agricultural Research Institute (ZARI). The fish was collected from Lake Kariba, Zambia, which is divided into four fisheries management strata (I, II, III, and IV). The health risks to consumers were evaluated using the Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess the difference in the means of heavy metal concentration across the four strata for each element. The concentrations of all the heavy metal elements were within the permissible limits considered to be safe for human consumption based on the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) standards. However, the concentration of individual heavy metal elements varied significantly across the strata with stratum I and II showing higher levels in general except for Mn which was highest in stratum II and III compared with the other strata. Furthermore, Mn concentration was the highest in all the strata and the highest concentration was observed in the fish from stratum II. The EDIs, THQs and HIs of each heavy metal element did not show any threat to consumers of the fish from the lake. Further studies are required to better understand the potential sources of heavy metals and to regularly monitor existing activities that may elevate the concentration levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Excessive exposure to heavy metals induces potential adverse health impacts in humans. More specifically, heavy metals in particulate matter (PM) have a significant impact since PM can penetrate human organs and systems, causing several morbidities. In this work, dust samples were collected from 20 different types of roads in a busy zone in Doha during the winter of 2016–2017, where a higher human exposure rate occurs due to extensive outdoor activities during this time of the year. The elemental composition in terms of the mass concentration of 30 elements was determined in each sample via an energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometer. Then, the toxicity of six heavy metals in these airborne traffic dust samples was investigated. The heavy metals reported to have a hazardous impact on human health are As, Pb, Hg, Cd, Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn. The extent of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk impact was assessed using pollution indices and then determining the health risks associated with exposure to heavy metals through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal contact. The non-carcinogenic hazard index analysis results indicate no toxicity for all metals. However, the carcinogenic risk factor results show that only chromium might induce a slight risk for children and adults. In light of this, further research is recommended to investigate more areas in urban Doha where more samples can be collected and analyzed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, six bacterial types, isolated from spent nuclear fuel (SNF) pool facility, were investigated for their ability to sequester heavy metals (cobalt and nickel). Biofilm formation by the six bacterial isolates, viz., Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus species, Staphylococcus arlettae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Staphylococcus auricularis, and Chryseobacterium gleum, were assayed, and they were found to have significant biofilm forming property. Their biofilms were characterised using confocal scanning laser microscopy, and their potential to accumulate Co2+ and Ni2+ from bulk solutions was analysed with respect to time. A comparative assessment of bioaccumulation capacity was done using biofilms, planktonic cells, and live vs dead cells. The strains accumulated Co2+ and Ni2+ in the range of 4 × 10−4 to 1 × 10−5 g/mg of cell biomass. It is interesting to note that dead biomass also showed significant removal of the two metal ions, suggesting an alternative process for metal removal. This study suggests that hostile environments can be a repertoire of putative bacterial species with potential heavy metals and other contaminants remediation properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The constant discharge of large quantities of toxic substances due to human activities has led to a global environmental issue. Numerous industrial sectors' effluents, which include coal-based power plants, mineral extraction activities, electroplating processes, as well as battery manufacturing, release metallic ions towards different ecosystems, such as Cadmium (Cd), Mercury (Hg), and Chromium (Cr). Heavy metals pose a significant danger to living organisms, humans, and environments because of their properties, mainly severe toxicity, and strong accumulation ability. Metallic ions are not subject to breakdown towards final components when contrasted with organic contaminants, which are significantly impacted by biochemical and chemical decomposition. Consequently, eliminating these elements has been regarded as a significant task within the water treatment sector. The purpose of this article is to analyze the literature related to heavy metals in terms of different issues. The heavy metals expression is explained. The natural sources and human activities responsible for releasing metallic ions into the environment are comprehensively discussed. In addition, heavy metals toxicity and potential risks to humans and different ecosystems are included. Various approaches for removing heavy metals from industrial wastewater, along with their associated advantages and drawbacks, are further evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of cobalt and cesium stresses on two hulless barley varieties through a hydroponic experiment. The plants were exposed to 200 μM cobalt chloride (Co), 200 μM cesium chloride (Cs), or with concurrent exposure to 100 μM Co + 100 μM Cs. The findings revealed that exposure to Co and Cs, either alone or in combination, caused a substantial reduction in plant growth and weight. Interestingly, the hulless barley seedlings were found to be more resilient to Cs stress, attributed to its lower Cs enrichment factor. The stressed seedlings demonstrated increased oxidative stress levels (malondialdehyde, proline, and content), but also displayed increased activity of antioxidant enzymes (POD and SOD), active oxygen scavenging capacity (GSH and GSSG content), and gene expression (GSH2, POD and SOD), reflecting a plant defense mechanism. Moreover, the expression of PAL and P5CS genes was significantly enhanced in seedlings under Co, Cs, and (Co + Cs) treatments, providing a basis for the physiological mechanism of heavy metal resistance in hulless barley. The results of this study provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of heavy metal resistance in hulless barley, indicating the plant's potential for phytoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The toxicity of transition metals, including copper(II), manganese(II), iron(II), zinc(II), hexavalent chromium, and cobalt(II), at elevated concentrations presents a significant threat to living organisms. Thus, the development of efficient sensors capable of detecting these metals is of utmost importance. This study explores the utilization of two-dimensional nitrogenated holey graphene (C2N) nanosheet as a sensor for toxic transition metals. The C2N nanosheet's periodic shape and standard pore size render it well suited for adsorbing transition metals. The interaction energies between transition metals and C2N nanosheets were calculated in both gas and solvent phases and were found to primarily result from physisorption, except for manganese and iron which exhibited chemisorption. To assess the interactions, we employed NCI, SAPT0, and QTAIM analyses, as well as FMO and NBO analysis, to examine the electronic properties of the TM@C2N system. Our results indicated that the adsorption of copper and chromium significantly reduced the HOMO–LUMO energy gap of C2N and significantly increased its electrical conductivity, confirming the high sensitivity of C2N towards copper and chromium. The sensitivity test further confirmed the superior sensitivity and selectivity of C2N towards copper. These findings offer valuable insight into the design and development of sensors for the detection of toxic transition metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gums and carrageenans are food additives widely used in food preparations to improve texture and as viscosifiers. Although they are typically added in small amounts, nowadays people tend to use more and more pre-prepared food. In this work, the content of a wide panel of trace elements in commercial products were analyzed. Carrageenans and gums (n = 13) were purchased in the Portuguese market and were from European suppliers. Samples were solubilized by closed-vessel microwave-assisted acid digestion and analyzed by ICP-MS. Globally, the content of essential trace elements decreased in the following order: Fe (on average, on the order of several tens of µg/g) > Mn > Zn > Cr > Cu > Co > Se > Mo (typically < 0.1 µg/g), while the content of non-essential/toxic trace elements decreased in the following order: Al > Sr > Rb > As > Li > Cd > Pb > Hg. The consumption of these food additives can significantly contribute to the daily requirements of some essential trace elements, namely Cr and Mo. The toxic trace elements Cd, As, Pb, and Hg were below the EU regulatory limits in all analyzed samples. Additional research is needed to define the potential risk of introducing toxic trace elements into food products through the use of these additives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three coastal lagoons on the Sefidrud Delta, Caspian Sea, were investigated to evaluate heavy metal pollution in sediments. Amirkola Lagoon is located in the eastern part of the delta (abandoned delta lobe) and is aged more than 500 years, whereas Kiashahr and Zibakenar lagoons are in the western or active part delta lobe and formed in the last decades. One hundred six sediment samples and three sediment cores were taken from studied lagoons. The samples were analyzed by ICP-OES. Geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), degree of contamination (Cdeg), pollution load index (PLI), and Potential ecological risk index (RI) were employed to determine heavy metal pollution for Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, V and Zn. Nonparametric statistical analysis (Two-step cluster analysis, analysis of variance, and T-test technique) was used to discriminate the pollution sources. Based on contamination indices, the Kiashahr and Zibakenar lagoons show significant to moderate contamination with Co, Cu, Pb, Zn, and V, whereas the Amirkola Lagoon samples show the lowest metal contamination. PLI values demonstrated metal contamination in the Kiashahr and Zibakenar lagoons but no contamination in the Amirkola Lagoon. Although there was a notable rise in RI values from Amirkola to two other lagoons, all indicated low ecological risk. Statistical methods designated the unique interpretation of contaminant sources. Although the same geogenic origin of sediments in the Sefidrud Delta and lagoons deposits, Co, Zn, and Pb show anthropogenic sources in the newly-formed Kiashahr and Zibakenar lagoons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferroptosis is a new type of iron-dependent cell death induced by a failure of the lipid repair protein GPX4 or the Xc- antiporter, which is essential for glutathione production. Some heavy metals such as arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg) as well as zinc (Zn) are shown to induce ferroptotic cell death involving the generation of oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunctioning, lipid peroxidation, and several other cellular etiologies. However, selenium (Se) treatment has been shown to enhance adaptive transcription responses to protect cells from ferroptosis. Heavy metals like Cadmium exposure activated ALK4/5 signaling via Smad3 and Akt signaling which leads to cell death mechanism. Continuous exposure to a small dose of mercury can damage tissues, and methylmercury bind to sulfhydryl proteins and GSH, this elevates oxidative stress, free radical accumulation, glutathione depletion, mitochondrial damage, and inhibited the nuclear factor-κB pathway which leads to ferroptotic cell death. Animals exposed to nickel and cobalt may have increased lipid peroxidation which can induce ferroptosis. Glutathione depletion is caused by Zn intoxication and exposure to manganese. These metals are systemic toxins that have been shown adverse effects on humans. Ferroptosis has recently been related to several pathological disorders, including, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, as well as cardiovascular disease, and any type of cancer. For these disorders and some heavy metal toxicity, ferroptosis suppression needs to be looked upon as a promising therapeutic choice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in modern medicine have improved the quality of life across the globe and increased the average lifespan of our population by multiple decades. Current estimates predict by 2030, 12% of the global population will reach a geriatric age and live another 3–4 decades. This swelling geriatric population will place critical stress on healthcare infrastructures due to accompanying increases in age-related diseases and comorbidities. While much research focused on long-lived individuals seeks to answer questions regarding how to age healthier, there is a deficit in research investigating what aspects of our lives accelerate or exacerbate aging. In particular, heavy metals are recognized as a significant threat to human health with links to a plethora of age-related diseases, and have widespread human exposures from occupational, medical, or environmental settings. We believe heavy metals ought to be classified as a class of gerontogens (i.e., chemicals that accelerate biological aging in cells and tissues). Gerontogens may be best studied through their effects on the "Hallmarks of Aging", nine physiological hallmarks demonstrated to occur in aged cells, tissues, and bodies. Evidence suggests that cellular senescence—a permanent growth arrest in cells—is one of the most pertinent hallmarks of aging and is a useful indicator of aging in tissues. Here, we discuss the roles of heavy metals in brain aging. We briefly discuss brain aging in general, then expand upon observations for heavy metals contributing to age-related neurodegenerative disorders. We particularly emphasize the roles and observations of cellular senescence in neurodegenerative diseases. Finally, we discuss the observations for heavy metals inducing cellular senescence. The glaring lack of knowledge about gerontogens and gerontogenic mechanisms necessitates greater research in the field, especially in the context of the global aging crisis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt (Co) bioaccumulation, contamination, and toxicity in the soil environment, plant growth, and cattles' health are becoming a severe matter that can cause unembellished consequences in environmental safety and human health. The present research was conducted for the assurance of cobalt (Co) amassing in three forage plant species (Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, Trifolium alaxandrium), from four ecological sites, and sewage water and in buffaloes blood was investigated. The analysis of variance showed significant differences for Co concentration in the soil and sewage water collected from all ecological sites. Meanwhile, summer and winter seasons and forage ecotypes significantly influenced the quantity of Co. The forage pastures also vary significantly in the concentration of Co in the above-ground parts. The highest Co level was present in Trifolium alaxandrium at ecological site-5. Cobalt taken from wastewater had a higher concentration in Trifolium alaxandrium during the winter. The samples which are collected from site-V and site-IV have the maximum concentration of Co because these areas receive highly contaminated water for irrigation. Cobalt tends to be bioaccumulated in the food chain and can cause serious problems in humans and animals. Bioaccumulation of cobalt in collected samples could be accredited to anthropogenic activities. Pollution load index values for all samples fell in the range below 1. The health risk index indicated the probability of health damage caused by the ingestion of contaminated fodder. An increase of Co concentration in soil, fodder, and blood owing to wastewater irrigation to crops was indicated as an outcome of this investigation. The results indicate that the Co toxicity in forage crops is attributed to Co bioaccumulation, transfer, and pollution load in the soil–water-cattle triangle. Efforts should be extended to avoid contamination of the food chain via Co-rich sewage water. Other nonconventional water resources should be used for forage irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Human activities such as heavy industry and transport have significantly increased the levels of many poisonous chemicals in the human environment. Among these chemicals are heavy metals, which pose a great risk to human health because they cannot decompose and cannot be eliminated from the human body by metabolic processes. Volcanic stone called clinoptilolite is inert and extremely porous, and can capture heavy metals into its meshed structure. Therefore, it can be used as a food supplement for detox purposes. Several clinical studies have already indicated its detoxifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In our experiment, we fed healthy rats with clinoptilolite, which was milled to fine dust to improve performance, for three months. Two forms were used: tribomechanically activated zeolite and Panaceo-Micro-Activated zeolite. Upon completion of the administration period, we observed the impact of clinoptilolite dust on the metallic composition in different rat tissues and bloodstream. Our results showed that this activated natural stone had indeed released metallic toxicants from the rat organs to the bloodstream, which indicates a detoxification process. Heavy metals are dangerous systemic toxicants that can induce multiple organ damage, primarily by inducing oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage. Clinoptilolite is a highly porous natural mineral with a magnificent capacity to eliminate metals from living organisms, mainly by ion-exchange and adsorption, thus providing detoxifying, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory medicinal effects. The in vivo efficiency and safety of the oral administration of clinoptilolite in its activated forms, tribomechanically activated zeolite (TMAZ) and Panaceo-Micro-Activated (PMA) zeolite, as well as the impact on the metallic biodistribution, was examined in healthy female rats. Concentration profiles of Al, As, Cd, Co, Pb, Ni and Sr were measured in rat blood, serum, femur, liver, kidney, small and large intestine, and brain using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after a 12-week administration period. Our results point to a beneficial effect of clinoptilolite materials on the concentration profile of metals in female rats supplemented with the corresponding natural clinoptilolite materials, TMAZ and PMA zeolite. The observed decrease of measured toxicants in the kidney, femur, and small and large intestine after three months of oral intake occurred concomitantly with their most likely transient release into the bloodstream (serum) indicative of a detoxification process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water quality is under constant threat worldwide due to the discharge of heavy metals into the water from industrial waste. In this report, we introduce a potential candidate, chitosan, extracted and isolated from shrimp shells, that can adsorb heavy metals from polluted water. The waste shrimp shell chitosan was characterized via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). The adsorption capacity of heavy metals on the modified shrimp shell was measured using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry before and after adsorption. The highest adsorption of arsenic, nickel, and cobalt was 98.50, 74.50, and 47.82%, respectively, at neutral pH, whereas the highest adsorption of chromium was 97.40% at pH 3. Correspondingly, the maximum adsorption capacities of MSS for As, Cr, Ni, and Co were observed to be 15.92, 20.37, 7.00, and 6.27 mg/g, respectively. The application of Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models revealed that the adsorption processes for the heavy metals were statistically significant (r2 > 0.98). The kinetic studies of metal adsorption, using modified shrimp shell, were well explained by the pseudo-second-order kinetic model with linear coefficients (r2) of >0.97. The presence of a greater number of functional groups on the adsorbent, such as N–H coupled with H–O, –COO−, C–H, N–N, and C–O–C, was confirmed by FTIR analyses. Furthermore, SEM-EDX analysis detected the presence of elements on the surface of modified shrimp shell chitosan. This noteworthy adsorption capacity suggests that MSS could serve as a promising, eco-friendly, and low-cost adsorbent for removing toxic heavy metals including Cr, Ni, As, and Co and can be used in many broad-scale applications to clean wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

East Kolkata Wetlands (EKW) is an important site for fish culture in sewage-fed areas, which are major receivers of pollutants and wastages from Kolkata. EKW is internationally important as the Ramsar site was declared on Aug 2002 with an area of 125 km2. EKW is a natural water body where wastewater-fed natural aquaculture has been practiced for more than 70 years. It is ecologically vulnerable due to the discharge of toxic waste through sewage canals from cities. Assessing the EKW to understand the inflow and load of the toxic metal (s) in fish, water, and sediments samples is essential. The field (samples collection from 13 sites) and lab (determination of toxic level of metals) based research were carried out to assess metal toxicity and health risk assessment in EKW. The levels of eighteen metals (18), namely Chromium, Vanadium, Cobalt, Manganese, Copper, Nickel, Zinc, Silver, Molybdenum, Arsenic, Selenium, Tin, Gallium, Germanium, Strontium, Cadmium, Mercury, and Lead, were determined using Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) in five fish tissues viz. muscle, liver, kidney, gill and brain, along with the water samples and soil sediments in 13 sampling sites. The bioaccumulation and concentration of metals in fish tissues, soil sediments, and water samples were well within the safe level concerning the recommendation of different national and international agencies except for a few metals in a few sampling sites like Cd, As, and Pb. The geoaccumulation index (Igeo) was also determined in the soil sediments, indicating moderate arsenic, selenium, and mercury contamination in a few sites. The contamination index in water was also determined in 13 sampling sites. The estimated daily intake (EDI), reference dose (RfD), target hazard quotient (THQ), slope factor and cancer risk of Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Cd, Pb and Hg from fish muscle were determined. Based on the results of the present investigation, it is concluded that fish consumption in the East Kolkata Wetland (EKW) is safe. The effects of bioaccumulation of metals in muscle tissue were well within the safe level for consumption as recommended by WHO/FAO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surveying, mapping, and characterizing soil properties are the critical steps in designating soil quality. Continuous use of inorganic fertilizers, pesticides, wastewater discharge, and leachates cause soil degradation and contamination of potable water and food ultimately leading to soil pollution and ill effects on human health. This study was undertaken to monitor the soil quality of agricultural soil samples collected from ten different agricultural fields in Ludhiana, Punjab (India), near Buddha Nullah, a Sutlej River tributary. Physico-chemical characteristics and heavy metal contents of soil samples were estimated during the study. The obtained results showed that all the agricultural soil samples were slightly alkaline in nature. Soil nutrients such as nitrates, phosphates, and potassium ranged from 0.06 to 0.11 mg/g, 0.03 to 0.08 mg/g, and 0.04 to 0.15 mg/g respectively. The contents (mg/kg) of heavy metals such as cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, and lead were observed to be above the permissible limits in most of the soil samples. Allium cepa root chromosomal aberration assay was used for genotoxicity studies which has shown that Hambran (HBN), a site approx. 12.9 km of the Buddha Nullah, induced maximum genotoxic effects, i.e., 46.7% aberrant cells in root tip cells of Allium cepa. The statistical analysis revealed the positive correlation of heavy metals like Cr, Cu, and Ni (at p ≤ 0.05 and p ≤ 0.01) with the total chromosomal aberrations induced in Allium cepa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Over the years, anaerobic digestion (AD) has evolved as a competent technology to retrieve energy potential from various organic substrates, including wastewater. However, the energy metabolisms of anaerobic microorganisms, biochemical reactions, and biogas production are affected by various parameters, including heavy metals. It is important to understand the interaction of heavy metals with anaerobes and their potential influence on the process to enhance energy potential. This review methodically outlines the occurrence and role of heavy metals in the AD process. Additionally, the repercussions of the most common heavy metals (i.e., Cu, Zn, Cd, Fe, and Ni) on each stage of AD (i.e., hydrolysis, acidogenesis, and methanogenesis) have been discussed. We found that traces of heavy metals can endorse anaerobic digestion, but inhibition increases with increasing concentration. Methanogenic archaea are more susceptible to heavy metal inhibition than hydrolytic and acidogenic archaea. An improved understanding and relevant intuition will help to promote biogas production along with heavy metal management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Prionoplus reticularis larvae ('Huhu grubs'), a traditional food in New Zealand, have been grown commercially. However, no information is available on the composition or safety of the larvae as a food. A proximate analysis (58.7–75.2% moisture, 26.2–30.5% protein, 32.1–58.4% fat, and 1.5–3.2% ash dry weight basis) found that Huhu grubs contain substantial amounts of nutrients. Forty minerals were investigated for four different development stages of wild harvested Huhu grubs (small, medium, and large larvae and pupae). ICP‐MS detected 28 minerals, (11 essential, 13 non‐essential, and four heavy metals). The most abundant minerals were manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, copper, and zinc. The heavy metal content of Huhu grubs was found to be below detection levels for arsenic and vanadium, but cadmium and lead were detectable. The results indicate, on the basis of proximate analysis and mineral content, that moderate consumption of New Zealand wild harvested Huhu is safe and nutritious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Release of radionuclide and heavy metals in environment during healthcare, agriculture and military practices, and mining and energy production, poses a serious threat to humans and whole ecosystems. Acute or chronic exposure to human causes serious health effects such as acute radiation syndrome, burns, neurological disorders, renal damage and cancers. Hence, there is a need to find safe, wide-spectrum and cost-effective agents for removing internalized radionuclides and preventing internalization of these ions. In this direction, nutritional supplements offer an excellent option. The present review examines the potential of Chlorella for removal of radionuclide and heavy metal ions. Chlorella is a green alga consumed as dietary food supplement in powdered form. In addition to its high nutritional value, it is reported as an excellent detoxifying agent. The powdered Chlorella has been reported for removal of mercury, cadmium and radioactive strontium from the body. Chlorella contains a variety of metal-binding functional groups such as carboxyl, amino, phosphoryl, hydroxyl and carbonyl groups, which have high affinity towards various metal ions. Different species of Chlorella in live, dead or powdered forms has shown removal efficiency for different toxic metal ions from living as well as non-living things. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals (HMs) are not destroyable or degradable and persist in the environment for a long duration. Thus, eliminating and counteracting the HMs pollution of the soil environment is an urgent task to develop a safe and sustainable environment. Plants are in close contact with the soil and can play an important role in soil clean-up, and the process is known as phytoremediation. However, under HM contaminated conditions, plants suffer from several complications, like nutrient and mineral deficiencies, alteration of various physiological and biological processes, which reduces the plant's growth rate. On the other hand, the bioavailability of HMs is another factor for reduced phytoremediation, as most of the HMs are not bioavailable to plants for efficient phytoremediation. The altered plant growth and reduced bioavailability of HMs could be overcome and enhance the phytoremediation efficiency by incorporating either nanotechnology, i.e., nanoparticles (NPs) or plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) along with phytoremediation. Single incorporation of NPs and PGPR might improve the growth rate in plants by enhancing nutrient availability and uptake and also by regulating plant growth regulators under HM contaminated conditions. However, there are certain limitations, like a high dose of NPs that might have toxic effects on plants. Thus, the combination of two techniques such as PGPR and NPs-based remediation can conquer the limitations of individual techniques and consequently enhance phytoremediation efficiency. Considering the negative impacts of HMs on the environment and living organisms, this review is aimed at highlighting the concept of phytoremediation, the single or combined integration of NPs and PGPR to help plants deal with HMs and their basic mechanisms involved in the process of phytoremediation. Additionally, the complications of using NPs and PGPR in the phytoremediation process are discussed to determine future research questions and this will assist to stimulate further research in this field and increase its effectiveness in practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poor and inadequate sanitation systems have been considered not only a human health issue, but also an environmental threat that instigates climate change. Nine heavy metals—arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn)—were evaluated in influent and effluent water samples from four wastewater treatment plants in the Durban metropolis, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The results indicate that the mean concentrations of all the heavy metals in the influent samples ranged from 0.122 to 1.808 mg/L, while the effluent samples had a concentration ranging from 0.118 to 0.854 mg/L. Iron was found to be in the highest concentration and the concentration of Co was the lowest across the wastewater treatment plants. The levels for most of the heavy metals in this study were found to be above the recommended maximum concentrations in surface and effluent waters as stipulated by the World Health Organization, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Food and Agriculture Organization, and the Department of Water Affairs and Forestry of South Africa. According to the toxicity effect due to non-carcinogenic risks, As, Pb, Cr, and Cd are considered to be of medium risk in this study, indicating that a probable adverse health risk is very likely to occur. Additionally, the cancer risk (RI) values were lower than 10−3, which shows that cancer development is very likely in individuals who are exposed. Cancer development associated with dermal absorption is quite negligible; thereby, it does not raise any concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals is a collective term describing metals and metalloids with a density higher than 5 g/cm3. Some of them are essential micronutrients; others do not play a positive role in living organisms. Increased anthropogenic emissions of heavy metal ions pose a serious threat to water and land ecosystems. The mechanism of heavy metal toxicity predominantly depends on (1) their high affinity to thiol groups, (2) spatial similarity to biochemical functional groups, (3) competition with essential metal cations, (4) and induction of oxidative stress. The antioxidant response is therefore crucial for providing tolerance to heavy metal-induced stress. This review aims to summarize the knowledge of heavy metal toxicity, oxidative stress and antioxidant response in eukaryotic algae. Types of ROS, their formation sites in photosynthetic cells, and the damage they cause to the cellular components are described at the beginning. Furthermore, heavy metals are characterized in more detail, including their chemical properties, roles they play in living cells, sources of contamination, biochemical mechanisms of toxicity, and stress symptoms. The following subchapters contain the description of low-molecular-weight antioxidants and ROS-detoxifying enzymes, their properties, cellular localization, and the occurrence in algae belonging to different clades, as well as the summary of the results of the experiments concerning antioxidant response in heavy metal-treated eukaryotic algae. Other mechanisms providing tolerance to metal ions are briefly outlined at the end. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laguna de Bay is the largest multipurpose lake in the Philippines. Of the primary uses, fish cultivation and potable water production depend mainly on its water quality. Over the years, this tropical lake has been inundated with pollution from agricultural, industrial and domestic wastewaters. While new contaminants have emerged, traditional contaminants including heavy metals continue to threaten the lake's resources. In this study, the levels and distribution of heavy metals in Laguna de Bay were investigated. Surface water samples from nine sampling sites were analyzed for As, Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Co, Ni, and Mn by ICP-MS and Hg by cold-vapor AAS. These heavy metals are variably dispersed across the lake and the mean concentrations were from below detection limits to 110.7 µg/L. Except for As and Mn, the levels are within the national standards for surface waters. In the south side of the lake near hot springs, As was found in relatively high concentrations up to 116.2 µg/L. The findings of this study on the present-day levels of heavy metals in Laguna de Bay are useful in assessing and sustaining the pollution prevention strategies in this valuable aquatic system that provides natural resources and ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, 18 plasticizer (phthalates, adipates, sebacates, and others) residues in sixteen medicines available in Tunisian pharmaceutical markets are evaluated by MSPD combined with GC-MS. In parallel, in this research, UPLC-MS/MS technique was performed to detect bisphenol A, and cadmium, lead, chromium, cobalt, nickel, mercury, selenium, and arsenic levels were determined by ICP-MS. The maximum daily ingested mass of mineral elements was calculated and compared with permissible daily exposure limits published by USP NF 2013. Our results demonstrated that the 50% of drugs contained similar concentrations of di-ethyl adipate. Di-isobutyl phthalate was found in a single sample with a high concentration (1.07mgkg-1). Di-methyladipate was also present in only one sample. Diethyl phthalate was detected in three medicines: the highest concentration (17.03mgkg-1) was found in capsules. The other plasticizers and bisphenol A levels were below the limits of quantification in the all samples. All tested products were safe for use, except two clay-originated products. Concentrations and the maximum daily ingested mass of lead and arsenic were higher than recommended limits. The use of these medicines should require more attention taking into account the serious hazards of heavy metals to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant and fungal THI4 thiazole synthases produce the thiamin thiazole moiety in aerobic conditions via a single-turnover suicide reaction that uses an active-site Cys residue as sulfur donor. Multiple-turnover (i.e. catalytic) THI4s lacking an active-site Cys (non-Cys THI4s) that use sulfide as sulfur donor have been biochemically characterized -- but only from archaeal methanogens that are anaerobic, O2-sensitive hyperthermophiles from sulfide-rich habitats. These THI4s prefer iron as cofactor. A survey of prokaryote genomes uncovered non-Cys THI4s in aerobic mesophiles from sulfide-poor habitats, suggesting that multiple-turnover THI4 operation is possible in aerobic, mild, low-sulfide conditions. This was confirmed by testing 23 representative non-Cys THI4s for complementation of an Escherichia coli ?thiG thiazole auxotroph in aerobic conditions. Sixteen were clearly active, and more so when intracellular sulfide level was raised by supplying Cys, demonstrating catalytic function in the presence of O2 at mild temperatures and indicating use of sulfide or a sulfide metabolite as sulfur donor. Comparative genomic evidence linked non-Cys THI4s with proteins from families that bind, transport, or metabolize cobalt or other heavy metals. The crystal structure of the aerotolerant bacterial Thermovibrio ammonificans THI4 was determined to probe the molecular basis of aerotolerance. The structure suggested no large deviations compared with the structures of THI4s from O2-sensitive methanogens, but is consistent with an alternative catalytic metal. Together with complementation data, use of cobalt rather than iron was supported. We conclude that catalytic THI4s can indeed operate aerobically and that the metal cofactor inserted is a likely natural determinant of aerotolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea (Vignus unguiculata) is a source of plant protein that is widely consumed by the Nigerian populace. The aim of the study was to evaluate the health risk of heavy metals in two cowpea types sold in Gwagwalada Market, Nigeria. The concentrations of five heavy metals nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr) were assessed in the cowpea types. Samples of each type were randomly purchased and the heavy metal concentrations (mg/kg) were analyzed with an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The concentrations of the heavy metals in mg/kg dry weight of the brown type were as follows: Ni (2.45 ± 0.87), Cd (0.26 ± 0.10), Mn (9.11 ± 1.80), and Co (1.67 ± 0.20), while the concentrations for the white type were: Ni (4.55 ± 1.21), Cd (0.27 ± 0.13), Mn (9.17 ± 1.50), and Co (1.09 ± 0.15). The level of Cr was below detection in all the samples analyzed. However, the levels of Ni, Mn, and Co investigated were all below the permissible limits set by FAO/WHO. The Cd concentrations of both cowpea types exceeded the FAO/WHO permissible limit of 0.2 mg/kg for cowpea. Determined heavy metal concentrations were used for potential health risk assessment in adults and children. The target hazard quotient and hazard index were >1 for Co, while the target cancer risk of Ni subsulfide for the cowpea types exceeded 10−4, and these results are causes for concern. It is recommended that the concentrations of the heavy metals in cowpea sold in Nigerian markets should be monitored regularly in order to avert their detrimental effects on consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the level of arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) and also essential elements in beer samples consumed in Turkey were investigated using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The heavy metal-induced non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were calculated. For essential elements, the calculated estimated daily intake of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) and cobalt (Co) from beer consumption were compared with their toxicity reference values. Tukey post-hoc test showed that As was found at a significantly higher level when compared to Pb. Also, a significant correlation was found between As level and alcohol by volume percent. All samples had a hazard quotient and hazard index <1, indicating no non-carcinogenic risk from exposure to single or multiple heavy metals. Some samples exceeded the threshold limit of acceptable cancer risk for As in the high beer consumer group. This assessment showed that in addition to health implications based on the alcohol content of beer, there might be a carcinogenic risk associated with the heavy metals content of these beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal exposures may contribute to diabetes risk but prospective studies are uncommon. We analyzed the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health (three cohorts aged 18–23, 45–50, or 70–75 at baseline in 1996, N = 34,191) merged with emissions data for 10 heavy metals (As, Be, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn) from the National Pollutant Inventory. Over 20-year follow-up, 2,584 women (7.6%) reported incident diabetes. Cox proportional hazards regression models showed that women aged 45–50 at baseline had higher diabetes risk in association with exposure to total air emissions, total water emissions, all individual metals air emissions, and six individual water emissions. After correction for false discovery rate, nine of 11 air emissions and five water emissions remained significant. Associations were not observed for land-based emissions, or for younger or older cohorts. Emissions were dominated by mining, electricity generation and other metals-related industrial processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]