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One of the most pressing environmental issues is how to properly dispose of municipal solid waste (MSW), which represents both a substantial source of concern and a challenge. The current study evaluated cobalt (Co) accumulation in MSW, their uptake by different vegetables grown for two years, and related human health risks. Vegetables were grown in four different groups, such as one control (ground soil), and the remaining treatment groups (T1, T2, and T3) received varying concentrations of MSW. The analysis of Co was done through an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Results revealed that the concentration of Co was higher in all the vegetables (n = 15) grown in soil supplemented with 75% MSW during 2nd growing year. Among all vegetables, the highest concentration of Co was observed in Solanum tuberosum at T3 during 2nd growing year. The pollution load index (PLI) value for vegetables during both growing years was more than 1 except in control soil. The findings indicated that the highest enrichment factor (EF) and hazard resilience index (HRI) value of 0.09 was present in S. tuberosum. Health index values for cobalt in the study were below 1. The HRI < 1 indicated that consumers do not face any immediate health risks. The investigation of Co concentrations in blood samples obtained from individuals residing in different areas contributes a human health perspective to the research. The findings indicate that the concentration of Co rises with an increasing proportion of MSW. While the metal levels in MSW-treated soil were not high enough to classify the soil as polluted, the results recommend that recycling MSW can substitute mineral fertilizers. Nevertheless, the presence of cobalt in MSW may directly affect soil fertility and could impact crop production and human health., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

There is increasing evidence that the imbalance of metals as cobalt (Co) and chromium (Cr) may increase the risk of development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). The human exposure to Co and Cr is derived mostly from industry, orthopedic implants, and polluted environments. Neurological effects of Co and Cr include memory deficit, olfactory dysfunction, spatial disorientation, motor neuron disease, and brain cancer. Mechanisms of Co and Cr neurotoxicity included DNA damage and genomic instability, epigenetic changes, mitochondrial disturbance, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. This paper seeks to overview the Co and Cr sources, the mechanisms by which these metals induce NDDs, and their levels in fluids of the general population and patients affected by NDDs. To this end, evidence of Co and Cr unbalance in the human body, mechanistic data, and neurological symptoms were collected using in vivo mammalian studies and human samples., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Production of metal debris from implant wear and corrosion processes is now a well understood occurrence following hip arthroplasty. Evidence has shown that metal ions can enter the bloodstream and travel to distant organs including the brain, and in extreme cases, can induce sensorial and neurological diseases. Our objective was tosimultaneously analyze brain anatomy and physiology in patients with long-term and well-functioning implants. Included were subjects who had received total hip or hip resurfacing arthroplastywith an implantation time of a minimum of 7 years (n = 28) and age- and sex-matched controls (n = 32). Blood samples were obtained to measure ion concentrations of cobalt and chromium, and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment was performed. 3T MRI brain scans were completed with an MPRAGE sequence for ROI segmentation and multiecho gradient echo sequences to generate QSM and R2* maps. Mean QSM and R2* values were recorded for five deep brain and four middle and cortical brain structures on both hemispheres: pallidum, putamen, caudate, amygdala, hippocampus, anterior cingulate, inferior temporal, and cerebellum. No differences in QSM or R2* or cognition scores were found between both groups (p > 0.6654). No correlation was found between susceptibility and blood ion levels for cobalt or chromium in any region of the brain. No correlation was found between blood ion levels and cognition scores. Clinical significance: Results suggest that metal ions released by long-term and well-functioning implants do not affect brain integrity., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society.)

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the toxic effects of CoCl 2 -induced hepatotoxicity and fatty acid changes in juvenile Cyprinus carpio. Fish were divided into six experimental groups in duplicate. The first group served as controls. The second group received the lowest exposure dose at 2.5 µg/L. In the third group, fish were exposed to 25 µg/L of CoCl 2 . The fourth group was exposed to 50 µg/L of CoCl 2 . The last two groups were exposed to the highest doses, 100 and 500 µg/L of CoCl 2 . Total antioxidant activities were estimated using a colorimetric method. Liver fatty acid compositions were analyzed by high-performance gas chromatography (GC). Hepatopathy was identified through microscopic analysis. Exposure of C. carpio to CoCl 2 resulted in hepatotoxicity, indicated by increased levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ), protein carbonyls (PCO), and alterations in the ferric reducing antioxidant power system (FRAP). Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH), metallothioneins (MTs), and low thiol levels (L-SH) significantly increased, particularly under exposure to the highest CoCl 2 doses (100 and 500 µg/L). Acetylcholinesterase activity decreased significantly in C. carpio exposed to graded CoCl 2 doses. Additionally, there was a decrease in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), primarily n-3 PUFA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while an increase in monounsaturated (MUFA) and saturated fatty acids (SFA), including palmitic (C16:0), stearic (C18:0), palmitoleic (C16:1), and oleic (C18:1) acids, was observed. Histopathological examination of the liver confirmed hepatopathy revealing characteristic tissue changes such as leucocyte infiltration, hepatic cell membrane degradation, vacuolization, and lipid inclusions. The study provided ethnophysiology insights into the responses of C. carpio to CoCl 2 -induced oxidative stress and lipidomic alteration, underscoring its potential as a bioindicator for assessing environmental impacts and metal contamination., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Frequent discharge of cobalt in ionic form (Co2+) during industrial processes is contaminating agricultural soil through the addition of industrial effluent. Cobalt is beneficial element in trace amounts but its higher concentrations in soil severely damage the growth and development of plants. In this two-year study, the pre-selected sublethal level (0.5 mM) concentration of Co2+ was applied in soil to induce toxicity on two elite maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids ('Hycorn11plus' and 'P-1429'). To encounter the toxic effects of selected sub-lethal (0.5 mM) Co2+ level (applied using CoCl2·6H2O), pre-optimized levels of three stress protective chemicals (SPCs) i.e., ascorbic acid (0.5 mM), salicylic acid (0.5 mM) and thiourea (1.0 mM) were foliar sprayed. The Co2+ and SCPs treatments were applied 10 days after seedling emergence. After ten days of treatment application, the data were recorded for the growth, nutrients and leaf water status. The shoot and root dry weights and shoot-to-root (S/R) ratio were substantially reduced by the Co2+ stress. Co2+ intoxication also enhanced the leaf water loss (LWL) while relative water contents (RWC) were reduced in Co2+ stressed plants. The Co2+ treatment reduced the intake of nitrate-N, sulfate-S, phosphate-P, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, and Fe2+ contents significantly both in the shoot and root. However, from the correlation matrix, it was noted that the foliar spray of SPCs effectively alleviated the Co2+damage by preventing the influx of Co2+ ions and enhanced the growth, water and nutrient contents except for LWL. From the reduced RWC and shoot and root nutrient contents, as well as increased LWL and Co2+ contents, it is evident that Co2+ interfered with either the function or structure of water and ion-transport systems located on the plasma lemma and tonoplast of root cells. AsA was more effective among the foliar applied SPCs due to its multiple metabolic roles in plants. The foliar spray of SPCs improved the root mass and tendency to absorb essential nutrients under Co2+toxicity indicating an intimate communication between shoot and root. The use of SPCs at the selected levels is a pragmatic strategy to counteract the Co2+ damage to maize in the marginally contaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document provides information on the topic of cobalt toxicity in patients with metal-on-metal (MoM) hip implants. Cobalt toxicity can lead to various symptoms and complications, including peripheral neuropathy, hearing loss, cardiomyopathy, and hypothyroidism. The diagnosis involves elevated cobalt levels, confirmed findings consistent with cobalt toxicity, and exclusion of other causes. Treatment options include symptomatic management, chelation therapy, and revision of the MoM hip implant. Early detection is important for better outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

The excessive accumulation of cobalt (Co) in plant tissues severely impairs plant growth that ultimately reduces the yield. However, melatonin (MT) has been known to mediate the abiotic stress tolerance in plants. The present study aimed at investigating the protective mechanisms of exogenously applied MT (0, 50 and 100 μM) under Co (0, 100, 200 and 300 μM) stress by focusing on morpho-physiological, biochemical and cellular characterizations of Brassica napus plants. Cobalt (300 μM) alone treatment drastically inhibited the stomatal conductance, plant height (45%), leaf area (30%), free amino acid (139%), relative electrolyte leakage (109%), and total soluble sugars (71%), compared with the control. However, the exogenous supply of MT notably minimized the oxidative damage, lipid peroxidation and maintained the membrane integrity under Co-toxicity by restricting the overproduction of ROS (H 2 O 2 and O 2 • ), and MDA in leaves and roots. Melatonin significantly enhanced the activities of ROS-scavenging antioxidant enzymes, secondary metabolism-related phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), stress-responsive genes (heat shock protein as HSP-90 , methyl transferase as MT) and regulated the Co-transporters, especially in roots. These findings indicated that an exogenous supply of MT improve the plant morphology, photosynthetic apparatus, osmotic adjustments, and antioxidant defense systems by enhancing the Co-detoxification in B. napus plants. [Display omitted] • Cobalt stress drastically inhibited the plant growth and photosynthetic efficiency. • Exogenous supply of melatonin notably minimized Co-toxicity in plants. • Melatonin significantly enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes. • Application of MT significantly increased secondary metabolism-related enzymes. • Co-transporters regulated in B. napus roots with exogenously MT application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dear Editor, We read with great interest the letter from Pelclova and Lach [[1]] on the efficacy of unithiol (2,3-dimercaptopropanesulfonate) and acetylcysteine in a patient with arthroplastic cobalt toxicity. Acetylcysteine increases cobalt urinary excretion and consistently maintains the serum cobalt concentration less than the threshold of 10 g/L, which we believe to be the goal in patients with metal-on-metal implants in order to minimise cobalt toxicity from the existing prosthesis [[3]]. The authors stated that chelation therapy, either with unithiol or acetylcysteine, is often clinically inefficient in patients with very elevated cobalt concentrations (greater than 100 g/L) as long as the damaged prosthesis remains I in situ i . [Extracted from the article]

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 Co 2+ and Ni 2+ 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 Co 2+ and Ni 2+ 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., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Cobalt (Co2+) is a beneficial microelement for plants but toxic to metabolism in higher amounts. This study determined the influence of sublethal Co2+ level (0.5 mM) on the growth of maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids; Hycorn 11 plus (Co2+ sensitive) and P-1429 (Co2+ tolerant) and its alleviation with foliar spray of pre-optimized levels of stress protective chemicals (SPCs), i.e., salicylic acid (SA, 0.5 mM), thiourea (TU, 1.0 mM), and ascorbic acid (AsA, 0.5 mM) applied at seedling, vegetative, and late vegetative stages. Plants were harvested at early vegetative, late vegetative, and silking stages. Co2+ stress caused a decrease in shoot and root length, dry weight, leaf area, and culm diameter, reduced the activities of enzymatic antioxidants and concentrations of AsA and soluble phenolics more in root than shoot, but P-1429 was more tolerant of Co2+ than Hycorn 11 plus. SPCs spray alleviated oxidative damage by enhancing the antioxidant activity, AsA and soluble phenolics, sulfate-S and nitrate–N contents, which were significantly increased in roots than in shoots; P-1429 displayed better response than Hycorn 11 plus. Principal component analysis and correlation matrix revealed the profound roles of SPCs spray in improving Co2+ resistance in root leading to robust growth of hybrids. AsA was highly promising in reducing Co2+ toxicity while vegetative and silking stages were more sensitive. Results revealed that after translocation to root, the foliar-applied SPCs had individualistic modes of action in mitigating Co2+ toxicity on roots. In crux, the metabolism and phloem transport of the SPCs from shoot to root are plausible mechanism for Co2+ tolerance in maize hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine whether urine cobalt (Co) is associated with the prevalence of kidney stones, we conducted a cross-sectional study of participants (≥ 20 years) involved in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2007 and 2018. The urine Co level was divided into four groups: 0.02-0.22, 0.22-0.36, 0.36-0.58, and 0.58-37.40 μg/L. The independent correlation between urine Co and prevalence of kidney stones was determined by logistic regression analyses. A total of 10,744 participants aged over 20 years that were not pregnant were eligible. Among them, 1041 participants reported ever having developed kidney stones. Patients with kidney stones developed significantly higher urine Co than the non-stone participants. The kidney stone patients were more likely to have been smoking ≥ 100 cigarettes in life; have hypertension, diabetes, and cancer; and engage in heavy activity. Multivariate logistic regression indicated a significantly positive relationship between the urine Co level and occurrence of kidney stones (OR 1.059, 95% CI 1.018-1.102, P = 0.00430). Moreover, the outcome remained unchanged after some sophisticated factors were adjusted (OR 1.059, 95% CI 1.001-1.120, P = 0.04635), and kidney stones were significantly related to a higher level of Co (OR (95% CI) = 0.22-0.36 μg/L: 1.111 (0.869, 1.421); 0.36-0.58 μg/L: 1.392 (1.095, 1.770); 0.58-37.40 μg/L: 1.712 (1.351, 2.170), and P for trend < 0.00001). So, urine Co concentration is positively associated with the prevalence of kidney stones. However, more high-quality prospective studies are needed to elucidate the causal correlation between Co level and kidney stones., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Corrosion of stem-cobalt/chromium (Co/Cr) head interface and subsequent systemic Co ion complication have been a clinical concern after total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study is to investigate correlation between type of femoral head and blood Co ion level., Methods: One hundred four patients with THA using accolade TMZF and Co/Cr femoral head (32-mm; 55 cases, 36-mm; 20 cases, dual mobility system (DM) with 22.2 or 28-mm inner head; 29 cases) participated in this study, and blood Co ion concentration test was performed in patients a minimum of four years after THA., Results: DM group was significantly older than 32-mm and 36-mm group (DM: 73.9 ± 4.6, 32-mm: 63.3 ± 8.5, 36-mm: 66.8 ± 10.5). The median (interquartile range) blood Co concentration of each group was 32-mm group 0.26 µg/L (0.69), 36-mm group; 0.21 µg/L (0.30); and DM group 0.21 µg/L (0.13). There was a significant difference of Co concentration between DM and 32-mm group (p = 0.023). Abnormal values of the blood Co concentration (> 1 µg/L) were observed in the 32-mm group; 12 cases (21.8%), 36-mm group; 2 cases (10.0%); and DM group; 0 case (0%) (p = 0.018)., Conclusions: Co blood concentration differed among the different sizes of Co/Cr femoral head. THA using DM is a safe option with low risk of complication from cobalt ion if it is used for elderly patients., (© 2022. The Author(s) under exclusive licence to SICOT aisbl.)

We conclude that treatment with either unithiol or acetylcysteine is inefficient in patients with very elevated serum cobalt concentrations, especially greater than 100 µg/L, as long as the damaged prosthesis remains I in situ i . Dear Editor, Previously [[1]] we reported a 56-year-old man with severe cobalt poisoning from a damaged metal-on-ceramic hip prosthesis. However, her serum cobalt concentration reached 221 µg/L in February 2022 on the day of the surgery, which subsequently decreased to 51 µg/L 11 days after surgery, 10 µg/L 2.5 months after surgery, and 3 µg/L 6 months after surgery, all without further treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Systemic poisoning related to cobalt–chromium total hip arthroplasty can affect multiple organs. In the otolaryngologic area the most frequent symptoms are tinnitus and hearing loss. In this report, we describe 2 patients with cobalt-containing hip prostheses who presented with otologic symptoms. The first case describes a patient with an extremely high cobalt blood level, which we believe may be one of the highest reported to date, after replacing a broken ceramic-on-ceramic prosthesis with a metal-on-metal prosthesis. This patient suffered all known complications associated with cobalt poisoning and survived. The second case, a female patient with a left resurfacing metal-on-metal prothesis, presented with bilateral continuous high-pitched tinnitus that started 8 months after surgery. Orthopedic surgeons and otologists should be vigilant for cobalt-induced ototoxicity in patients with metal-on-metal total hip prostheses. [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]

Cobalt-containing alloys are useful for orthopedic applications due to their low volumetric wear rates, corrosion resistance, high mechanical strength, hardness, and fatigue resistance. Unfortunately, these prosthetics release significant levels of cobalt ions, which was only discovered after their widespread implantation into patients requiring hip replacements. These cobalt ions can result in local toxic effects--including peri-implant toxicity, aseptic loosening, and pseudotumor--as well as systemic toxic effects--including neurological, cardiovascular, and endocrine disorders. Failing metal-on-metal (MoM) implants usually necessitate painful, risky, and costly revision surgeries. To treat metallosis arising from failing MoM implants, a synovial fluid-mimicking chelator was designed to remove these metal ions. Hyaluronic acid (HA), the major chemical component of synovial fluid, was functionalized with British anti-Lewisite (BAL) to create a chelator (BAL-HA). BAL-HA effectively binds cobalt and rescues in vitro cell vitality (up to 370% of cells exposed to IC50 levels of cobalt) and enhances the rate of clearance of cobalt in vivo (t1/2 from 48 h to 6 h). A metallosis model was also created to investigate our therapy. Results demonstrate that BAL-HA chelator system is biocompatible and capable of capturing significant amounts of cobalt ions from the hip joint within 30 min, with no risk of kidney failure. This chelation therapy has the potential to mitigate cobalt toxicity from failing MoM implants through noninvasive injections into the joint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cobalt is an essential trace element, but it can also rarely cause cobalt toxicity due to its release from cobalt-containing medical devices. Currently, there are no approved selective cobalt chelators, which would represent an optimal treatment modality., Objective: This study aimed to develop a simple and complex methodological approach for screening potential cobalt chelators and evaluating their potential toxicity., Methods: Firstly, a simple spectrophotometric assay employing 1-nitroso-2-naphthol-3,6- disulfonic acid disodium salt (NNDSA) for screening cobalt chelation was standardized at a pathophysiologically relevant range of pH 4.5-7.5. Then, the suitability of the method was verified using four known metal chelators (EDTA, 8-hydroxyquinoline, chloroxine and nitroxoline). As cobalt can catalyse the Fenton reaction, the potential toxicity of cobalt-chelator complexes was also determined by employing a novel HPLC method with coulometric detection. The effect on erythrocyte haemolysis was tested as well., Results: The NNDSA method had high sensitivity enabling the detection of 25-200 nM of cobalt ions depending on pH conditions. Measurements could be carried out in a wide range of wavelengths from 470 to 540 nm. All tested complexes of the selected chelators decreased the rate of the Fenton reaction. Interestingly, chloroxine mixed with cobalt ions caused marked lysis of erythrocytes in contrast to the other compounds., Conclusion: The described complex methodological approach could serve as a simple yet precise tool for evaluating novel, effective and safe cobalt chelators., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Chemical overexposure is a growing environmental risk factor for many medical issues. Cobalt toxicity from environmental, industrial, and medical exposure has previously been linked to neurological impairment. Hence, the current study looked into the neuroprotective potential of curcumin, a natural polyphenol contained in the spice turmeric, against cobalt-induced neurotoxicity. Adult rats were randomly divided into six groups as follows: control, 40 mg/kg cobalt chloride (CoCl2) only, 240 mg/kg curcumin only, 120 mg/kg or 240 mg/kg curcumin, or 100 mg/kg vitamin C co-administered with CoCl2. The administration was via oral route daily for 4 weeks. After that, neurobehavioral tests were undertaken to evaluate short-term spatial memory. Biochemical investigation was performed to determine the hippocampal levels of status via measures of SOD, CAT, GST, and LPO. Furthermore, immunohistochemical assessment of the expression of GFAP and Nrf2 in the hippocampus was carried out. In the CoCl2 group, the results showed altered behavioral responses, a decrease in antioxidant activities, increased expression of GFAP and the number of activated astrocytes, and decreased immunoexpression of Nrf2. These effects were mitigated in the curcumin- and vitamin C–treated groups. These results collectively imply that curcumin enhances memory functions in rats exposed to cobalt possibly by attenuating oxidative responses, mitigating astrocytosis, and modulating Nrf2 signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Cobalt toxicity has become a health concern in recent years, due to overexposure resulting in neurological impairments. With a growing interest in the therapeutic roles of herbs, in toxicity research, it's worth looking into the curative effects of aqueous Prosopis africana seed extract, a plant rich in flavonoids on cobalt-induced neurotoxicity. Materials and Methods: We treated rats with CoCl2 or CoCl2 in combination with aqueous PA seed extract (PAE) orally for 14 days. Control rats received distilled water for the same period. Following treatments, behavioral experiments, analysis for oxidative stress, inflammation, and histological and immunohistochemical analysis were performed. Results: Results revealed that CoCl2 reduced the exploration time, recognition index in the novel object recognition test, percentage spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze tests, and reduced open arm entry and duration in elevated plus-maze. However, treatment with PAE improved these parameters to levels comparable with those of the control group. Furthermore, PAE therapy reduced CoCl2-induced surge in hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, TNF-a and IL-1ß levels in brain homogenate, while also increasing superoxide dismutase and reduced reduced-glutathione activities. CoCl2 exposure resulted in obvious features of neurodegeneration like nuclear disintegration, nuclear shrinkage, and cytoplasmic vacuolations of the cells of the hippocampus and amygdala, with an increased expression of GFAP. The hippocampal and amygdala histology improved after PAE administration, while exacerbated GFAP expressions were attenuated. Conclusion: These findings imply that PAE may be anxiolytic and can help reduce cognitive impairments and hippocampal damage caused by CoCl2 neurotoxicity, via mechanisms that involve attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mining is always associated with deforestation and destruction of forest and agricultural land. Though it offers employment and governments' income, it still causes detrimental effects to the environment. The re-opening of open-pit mining corporation in 2011, in the small village of Bato-Bato, Narra, Palawan Philippines aggravated deforestation, floods, and decreased in rice yield of rice farmers. This study determined the Cobalt content in topsoil in mine-tailing sites within the rice farms. Field data collection and laboratory analysis methods were used in this study. This study utilized three sampling sites and three replications per site and 2 kg of topsoil from each replication per sampling site were collected following the quadrant method. The soil samples were sent to the laboratory for analysis. Cobalt content in topsoil was analyzed using Xray Flourescence (XRF) method. Normality of data was determined by Pearson Coefficient of Skewness (PCS) Test. Significant difference on the Cobalt content in topsoil was analyzed using F- Test and appropriate post hoc test. The Cobalt content in topsoil in three sampling sites is high (from 146.7 mg/kg to 306.7 mg/kg) in comparison with the average Cobalt content a topsoil should contain (41 mg/kg). High Cobalt content affects rice productivity. Mining operator should prioritize projects that prevent leaching of mining sediments during flood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global market for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is growing exponentially, resulting in an increase in mining activities for the metals needed for manufacturing LIBs. Cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel are four of the metals most used in the construction of LIBs, and each has known toxicological risks associated with exposure. Mining for these metals poses potential human health risks via occupational and environmental exposures; however, there is a paucity of data surrounding the risks of increasing mining activity. The objective of this review was to characterize these risks. Methods: We conducted a review of the literature via a systematic search of the PubMed database on the health effects of mining for cobalt, lithium, manganese, and nickel. We included articles that (1) reported original research, (2) reported outcomes directly related to human health, (3) assessed exposure to mining for cobalt, lithium, manganese, or nickel, and (4) had an available English translation. We excluded all other articles. Our search identified 183 relevant articles. Results: Toxicological hazards were reported in 110 studies. Exposure to cobalt and nickel mining were most associated with respiratory toxicity, while exposure to manganese mining was most associated with neurologic toxicity. Notably, no articles were identified that assessed lithium toxicity associated with mining exposure. Traumatic hazards were reported in six studies. Three articles reported infectious disease hazards, while six studies reported effects on mental health. Several studies reported increased health risks in children compared to adults. Conclusions: The results of this review suggest that occupational and environmental exposure to mining metals used in LIBs presents significant risks to human health that result in both acute and chronic toxicities. Further research is needed to better characterize these risks, particularly regarding lithium mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cobalt (Co) is a metal which is widely used in the industrial production. The previous studies found the toxic effects of environmental Co exposure on multiple organs. However, the correlation of blood Co concentration with lung function was inconsistent in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: All 771 stable COPD patients were recruited. Peripheral blood and clinical information were collected. The levels of blood Co and serum CC16 were measured. Results: Cross-sectional study suggested that the level of blood Co was inversely and dose-dependently related to lung function parameters. Each 1 ppm elevation of blood Co was related to 0.598 L decline in FVC, 0.465 L decline in FEV1, 6.540% decline in FEV1/FVC%, and 14.013% decline in FEV1%, respectively. Moreover, higher age, enrolled in winter, current-smoking, higher smoking amount, and inhaled corticosteroids prominently exacerbated the negative correlation between blood Co and lung function. Besides, serum CC16 content was gradually reduced with blood Co elevation in COPD patients. Besides, serum CC16 was positively correlated with lung function, and inversely related to blood Co. Additionally, decreased CC16 substantially mediated 11.45% and 6.37% Co-triggered downregulations in FEV1 and FEV1%, respectively. Conclusion: Blood Co elevation is closely related to the reductions of pulmonary function and serum CC16. CC16 exerts a significantly mediating role of Co-related to pulmonary function decrease among COPD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Prostate cancer is the most common cancer detected among men and it is the second leading cause of death. According to the WHO, cobalt is probably involved in carcinogenesis. However, there are no studies related to cobalt levels and survival in prostate cancer patients. The aim of this prospective study was to investigate the relationship between serum cobalt levels and survival among prostate cancer patients taking into consideration prostate cancer-specific deaths and non-cancer causes of death. Our findings, based on 261 Polish prostate cancer patients, show that individuals with high serum cobalt levels have a significantly worse survival compared to participants with low serum cobalt levels. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men and the second leading cause of death in male cancer patients. The WHO suggests that cobalt is involved in the carcinogenesis of prostate cancer. There are, however, no studies associating cobalt levels and prostate cancer patient survival. In this study, 261 Polish prostate cancer (n = 261) patients were recruited into a prospective cohort between 2009 and 2015. Serum cobalt levels were measured using ICP-MS after prostate cancer diagnosis and before treatment. All study participants were assigned into quartiles (QI-QIV) based on the distribution of serum cobalt levels among censored patients. Univariable and multivariable COX regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for each serum cobalt level quartile. We found a significant relationship between high serum cobalt levels and poor prostate cancer patient total survival (HR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.17–5.82; p = 0.02). In relation to prostate cancer patients who died as a result of other non-cancer causes, the association with high levels of cobalt was even stronger (HR = 3.67; 95% CI: 1.03–13.00; p = 0.04). The impact of high serum cobalt levels on overall survival of prostate cancer-specific-related deaths was not statistically significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing need for an economical and efficient method capable of removing heavy metals from residual water. The current contribution aimed to evaluate the capacity of onion peel, an abundant agroindustrial waste product, to remove divalent cobalt (Co2+) from aqueous solutions. Onion peel was submitted to proximal chemical analysis, and various operational factors involved in biosorption were tested. The most suitable temperature (30 °C), pH (7.0), and biosorbent particle size (300–800 µm) were found. With an initial Co2+ concentration of 380 mg L−1, the maximum capacity of Co2+ removal was 59.88 mg g−1 in 120 min. The pseudo-second order and Langmuir models provided the best fit to the experimental kinetics and equilibrium of Co2+ biosorption, respectively. The thermodynamic study evidenced an exothermic, non-spontaneous, and favorable reaction (ΔH0 = −5.78 kJ mol−1; ΔS0 = −21.13 J mol−1 K−1), suggesting the formation of stable bonds in the biosorbent-Co2+ complex. The carbonyl and hydroxyl groups apparently play a fundamental role in Co2+ removal, and electrostatic attraction, ion exchange, and chemisorption are the principal mechanisms. Thus, the biosorption of Co2+ by onion peel has potential as an economical, eco-friendly, efficient, and sustainable treatment for wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The role of oxidative stress and inflammation in cobalt (Co) toxicity has been the focus of previous studies. Cinnamon and its main components have been reported to have protective effects in various tissues with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Aims: In this study, the protective effect of cinnamon extract (CE) against possible Co-induced heart, kidney, and liver damage in rats was investigated biochemically. Methods: Eighteen albino Wistar-type male rats were categorized into three groups (n = 6 per group): control (CG), CoCL2-administered (CoCL2), and CE + CoCL2-administered (CE + Co) groups. The CE + CoCL2 group was administered CE (100 mg/kg), and the CoCL2 and CG groups were administered distilled water orally by gavage. One hour after the administration, Co (150 mg/kg) was administered orally to the CE + CoCL2 and CoCL2 groups. This procedure was repeated once daily for 7 days. Then, biochemical markers were studied in the excised heart, kidney, and liver tissues. Results: CoCL2 increased oxidants and proinflammatory cytokines and decreased antioxidants in heart, kidney, and liver tissues. Heart, kidney, and liver tissue were affected by Co damage. CE treatment suppressed the CoCL2-induced increase in oxidants and proinflammatory cytokines and decrease in antioxidants in heart, kidney, and liver tissues. CE treatment has been shown to attenuate cardiac damage by reducing serum troponin I (TpI) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), renal damage by reducing creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and liver damage by reducing alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). Conclusion: Co induced the production of oxidants and proinflammatory parameters and antioxidant depletion in heart, kidney, and liver tissues of rats. Our experimental results show that CE protects heart, kidney, and liver tissues against oxidative and inflammatory changes induced by CoCLl2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural agricultural solid waste material is very cost-effective for synthesizing adsorbents utilized in the removal of heavy metal ion from economic and noneconomic wastewaters, which are numerously exploded in environmental soil and water resources. Punica granatum (pomegranate) stem powder (PGSP) was synthesized into nanoparticle size and practiced in the removal of cobalt metal ions. The adsorbent was synthesized in a greener manner in an aqueous medium. A batch adsorption study was carried out with parameters including the effect of pH (pH 4, 73.13%), adsorbent dose (200 mg, 70.80%), the concentration of metal ion (200 ppm, 81.56%) and effect of temperature (30°C, 71.56%). Characterization study of PGSP before cobalt metal ion adsorption and after cobalt metal ion adsorption was conducted, including scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and elemental detection analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metallosis with subsequent cardiac involvement is a possible long‐term complication of hip arthroplasty. We report the case of a young female referred to our centre for the suspicion of cardiac amyloidosis presenting with low electrocardiogram voltage, left ventricular hypertrophy, pericardial effusion, and global and longitudinal systolic impairment with apical sparing pattern. Her medical history was remarkable for arthroplasty in the context of congenital hip dysplasia. Two years prior to presentation, she underwent revision surgery for prosthesis malfunction, and tissue metallosis was initially documented. At the current presentation, cobalt metallosis was confirmed, as the circulating cobalt and chromium levels were severely elevated. The accurate diagnosis prompted the removal of the cobalt source with extensive tissue debridement and the use of chelating agents. Reversal of the cardiac abnormalities occurred as the circulating cobalt levels returned to normal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt intoxication is a rare complication of joint arthroplasty with a metal-on-metal prothesis or metal implants after broken ceramic implants. Patients with metal components should be monitored closely for complications. The awareness for the wide range of clinical pictures of this cobalt intoxication should be increased. We here describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic and therapeutic work-up of a 70-year-old patient with a cobalt metallosis. The patient presented with a progressive deterioration of vision and hearing, axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy and cataract. The extensive work-up resulted in the diagnosis of a cobalt metallosis as a complication of a metal hip prosthesis. Cobalt intoxication, especially after metal-on-metal total joint arthroplasty, is a rare complication; however, there have been several reports of similar cases. It is therefore recommended to avoid the implantation of a metal-on-metal prothesis or metal implants after broken ceramic implants as in this case whenever possible. Patients with exclusively metal components should be monitored closely for complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The release of heavy metals into the environment as a result of industrial and agricultural activities represents one of the century's most significant issues. Cobalt is a hazardous metal that is employed in a variety of industries. In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) combined with Box–Behnken design (BBD) was utilized to optimize the Co(II) ion removal from synthetic wastewater by the brown macroalga Padina pavonica. The influence of three factors, namely algal inoculum size, pH, and initial metal concentration, was assessed in optimization studies. RSM proposed a second-order quadratic model with a p-value of <0.0001 and R2 of 0.984 for P. pavonica. According to the data related to RSM optimization, the maximum percentage of Co(II) removal of 84.3% was attained under the conditions of algal inoculum size of 5.98 g/L, pH of 6.73, and initial Co(II) concentration of 21.63 mg/L. The experimental data from the biosorption process were fitted well with the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models. The maximal Co(II) adsorption capacity was estimated using the Langmuir model to be 17.98 mg/g. Furthermore, the pseudo-second-order kinetic model was shown to have the best fit for Co biosorption by P. pavonica, showing that the mechanism of Co(II) biosorption was chemisorption controlled by surface biosorption and intra-particle diffusion. Thermodynamic parameters were also investigated to evaluate the Gibbs free energy for the Co(II) ion, which was positive, showing that the biosorption process is nonspontaneous and exothermic, and the cobalt biosorption rate decreases with increasing temperature. Algal biomass was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. These analyses revealed the biosorbent's diverse functional groups and porous, rough appearance. Therefore, P. pavonica can be used to implement sustainable, eco-friendly, and acceptable solutions to water pollution problems. [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]

Introduction: Cobalt is a mitochondrial toxin, clinical cobaltism manifests with constitutional, neurologic, and cardiovascular symptomatology. Cobalt's severe toxidrome is known through case reports from extreme wear or corrosion of cobalt-chromium arthroplasty components. However, the spectrum and epidemiology of orthopedic-implant cobaltism and its relationship to duration and degree of cobalt exposure are not well defined. Methods: The relationship of urine-cobalt concentration and duration of exposure to cobalt-chromium joint implants and cobaltism symptomatology were prospectively studied in 229 patients. Subjects received a Cobaltism-Symptom-Inventory-Score (CSIS) based on a protocolized interview and examination followed by a spot urine-cobalt measurement. Results: 129 (56%) subjects were cobalturic (urine-cobalt ≥1.0 ppb). 122 (53%) subjects had a CSIS of >2, this status significantly associates with cobalturia. Median [IQR] urine-cobalt in the subjects with a CSIS >2 was 4.1[1.1–17.0] ppb compared to 0.5[0.5–1.4] ppb in subjects with CSIS ≤ 2. Cobalturia has a sensitivity of 0.69, a specificity of 0.77, and a positive predictive value of 0.74 for a CSIS of >2. The product of years-exposed to a cobalt-chromium implant and urine-cobalt by quartiles significantly positively associates with the Cobaltism-Symptom-Inventory-Score. Conclusion: A urine-cobalt of ≥1 ppb likely indicates adverse systemic exposure to orthopedic-implant generated cobalt. Cobaltism severity as quantified by the CSIS significantly correlates with the product of spot urine-cobalt concentration and years-exposed to a cobalt-chromium orthopedic-implant indicating a dose-response relationship. Medical provider and public awareness of orthopedic-implant cobaltism is vital because tens-of-millions are at-risk and early cobaltism is reversible. Further use of cobalt-chromium orthopedic-implants should be questioned given cobaltism becomes clinically apparent at a spot urine-cobalt of 1 ppb or greater. Monitoring of patients with high-risk cobalt-chromium orthopedic-implants appears to be indicated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to improve the understanding of the environmental impacts of polymetallic nodule mining, ecotoxicological studies were conducted on the growth of model phytoplankton species Skeletonema costatum and Prorocentrum donghaiense using cobalt and nickel. This study evaluated various physiological and ecological indicators, such as cell proliferation, chlorophyll a, pigments, total protein, and antioxidant enzyme markers. The results show that the introduction of low amounts of cobalt or nickel increased the growth rate of phytoplankton. The phytoplankton benefited from low concentrations of cobalt and nickel stress. The increased protein levels and decreased activity of antioxidant enzymes considerably impacted physiological responses during the promotion of cell abundance. High concentrations of cobalt or nickel resulted in decreased light-absorbing pigments, increased photoprotective pigments, an inactive chlorophyll content, decreased total proteins, and maximal antioxidant enzyme activity in phytoplankton. Throughout the experiment, both the phytoplankton protein and enzyme activity declined with prolonged stress, and the cells underwent age-induced damage. Thus, seabed mining's repercussions on phytoplankton could result in both short-term growth promotion and long-term damage. These consequences depend on the impurity concentrations infiltrating the water, their duration, and the organism's physiological responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To define the vitamin B12 levels and other micronutrients status in severe acute malnutrition (SAM) children. Methods: This was a prospective hospital based cross-sectional study. Inclusion criteria: Children with severe acute malnutrition as per WHO criteria. Exclusion criteria: (i) Pernicious anemia (ii) Autoimmune gastritis (iii) SAM children on exclusive vitamin B12 supplementation. All enrolled children underwent a detailed clinical history, general physical examination with more emphasis on clinical features of vitamin B12 and other micronutrients deficiencies. Three ml of venous blood was collected to estimate vitamin B12 and other micronutrients. Primary outcome was percentage of deficiency of serum vitamin B12, zinc, copper, selenium, manganese, molybdenum and cobalt in SAM children. Results: Fifty children were included in the study. The mean age of children was 15.60±12.90 mo with male to female ratio 0.85:1. The common clinical presentation in order of frequency were upper respiratory infection (URI) symptoms 35 (70%), hepatomegaly 24 (48%), Hyperpigmentation 17 (34%), angular cheilitis 14 (28%), tremors 11 (22%), edema 07 (14%), and hypotonia 05 (10%). Anemia was found in 44 (88%) children. Prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency was 34%. Other micronutrient deficiencies observed were cobalt 24 (100%), copper 05 (12%), zinc 04 (9.5%), and molybdenum 03 (12.5%). No statistical significance was found between clinical symptoms and levels of vitamin B12 with different age and sex. Conclusions: Prevalence of low vitamin B12 and cobalt were more common than other micronutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cobalt (Co) is an essential element with ubiquitous dietary exposure and possible incremental exposure due to dietary supplements, occupations, and medical devices. The main function of Co in humans is based on its role in vitamin B12 (cobalamin). This review provides an extended overview of Co in relation to its effects on health and biological processes. Cobalt (Co) is an essential trace element for humans and other animals, but high doses can be harmful to human health. It is present in some foods such as green vegetables, various spices, meat, milk products, seafood, and eggs, and in drinking water. Co is necessary for the metabolism of human beings and animals due to its key role in the formation of vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, the biological reservoir of Co. In high concentrations, Co may cause some health issues such as vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, bleeding, low blood pressure, heart diseases, thyroid damage, hair loss, bone defects, and the inhibition of some enzyme activities. Conversely, Co deficiency can lead to anorexia, chronic swelling, and detrimental anemia. Co nanoparticles have different and various biomedical applications thanks to their antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. In addition, Co and cobalt oxide nanoparticles can be used in lithium-ion batteries, as a catalyst, a carrier for targeted drug delivery, a gas sensor, an electronic thin film, and in energy storage. Accumulation of Co in agriculture and humans, due to natural and anthropogenic factors, represents a global problem affecting water quality and human and animal health. Besides the common chelating agents used for Co intoxication, phytoremediation is an interesting environmental technology for cleaning up soil contaminated with Co. The occurrence of Co in the environment is discussed and its involvement in biological processes is underlined. Toxicological aspects related to Co are also examined in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) implants are composed of metals, ceramics, and/or polyethylene. Studies suggest that the debris released from metal implants may possess neurotoxic properties with reports of neuropsychiatric symptoms and memory deficits, which could be relevant to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. This exploratory study examined the cross-sectional correlation of blood metal concentrations with cognitive performance and neuroimaging findings in a convenience sample of 113 TJA patients with history of elevated blood metal concentrations of either titanium, cobalt and/or chromium. Associations with neuroimaging measures were observed but not with cognitive scores. Larger studies with longitudinal follow-up are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to advances in surgical procedures and the biocompatibility of materials used in total joint replacement, more and younger patients are undergoing these procedures. Although state-of-the-art joint replacements can last 20 years or longer, wear and corrosion is still a major risk for implant failure, and patients with these implants are exposed for longer to these corrosive products. It is therefore important to investigate the potential effects on the whole organism. Released nanoparticles and ions derived from commonly used metal implants consist, among others, of cobalt, nickel, and chromium. The effect of these metallic products in the process of osteolysis and aseptic implant loosening has already been studied; however, the systemic effect on other cell types, including neurons, remains elusive. To this end, we used human iPSC-derived motoneurons to investigate the effects of metal ions on human neurons. We treated human motoneurons with ion concentrations regularly found in patients, stained them with MitoSOX and propidium iodide, and analyzed them with fluorescence-assisted cell sorting (FACS). We found that upon treatment human motoneurons suffered from the formation of ROS and subsequently died. These effects were most prominent in motoneurons treated with 500 μM of cobalt or nickel, in which we observed significant cell death, whereas chromium showed fewer ROS and no apparent impairment of motoneurons. Our results show that the wear and corrosive products of metal implants at concentrations readily available in peri-implant tissues induced ROS and subsequently cell death in an iPSC-derived motoneuron cell model. We therefore conclude that monitoring of neuronal impairment is important in patients undergoing total joint replacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving angiogenesis is the key to the success of most regenerative medicine approaches. However, how and to which extent this may be performed is still a challenge. In this regard, cobalt (Co)-doped bioactive glasses show promise being able to combine the traditional bioactivity of these materials (especially bone-bonding and osteo-stimulatory properties) with the pro-angiogenic effect associated with the release of cobalt. Although the use and local delivery of Co2+ ions into the body have raised some concerns about the possible toxic effects on living cells and tissues, important biological improvements have been highlighted both in vitro and in vivo. This review aims at providing a comprehensive overview of Co-releasing glasses, which find biomedical applications as various products, including micro- and nanoparticles, composites in combination with biocompatible polymers, fibers and porous scaffolds. Therapeutic applications in the field of bone repair, wound healing and cancer treatment are discussed in the light of existing experimental evidence along with the open issues ahead. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, cobalt neurotoxicity was investigated in human astrocytoma and neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) cells using proliferation assays coupled with LC–MS-based metabolomics and transcriptomics techniques. Cells were treated with a range of cobalt concentrations between 0 and 200 µM. The 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay revealed cobalt cytotoxicity and decreased cell metabolism in a dose and time-dependent manner was observed by metabolomics analysis, in both cell lines. Metabolomic analysis also revealed several altered metabolites particularly those related to DNA deamination and methylation pathways. One of the increased metabolites was uracil which can be generated from DNA deamination or fragmentation of RNA. To investigate the origin of uracil, genomic DNA was isolated and analyzed by LC–MS. Interestingly, the source of uracil, which is uridine, increased significantly in the DNA of both cell lines. Additionally, the results of the qRT-PCR showed an increase in the expression of five genes Mlh1, Sirt2, MeCP2, UNG, and TDG in both cell lines. These genes are related to DNA strand breakage, hypoxia, methylation, and base excision repair. Overall, metabolomic analysis helped reveal the changes induced by cobalt in human neuronal-derived cell lines. These findings could unravel the effect of cobalt on the human brain. [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]

Cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) nanopowder was successfully synthesised by the coprecipitation method. For the entire experiment, natural iron sand from the Bengawan Solo River is used as an iron (Fe) cation source. The effect of the annealing temperature of a coprecipitated CoFe2O4 sample from natural iron sand was investigated. The presence of strong metal oxide bond groups at the tetrahedral and octahedral sites is revealed by fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectral results, owing to the CoFe2O4 characteristic. Then the X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern confirmed the formation of a single-phase CoFe2O4 with face centred cubic (FCC) crystal structure closely matched to reference data ICDD221086. The crystalline parameters such as lattice parameter and crystallite size modify with the increase of annealing temperature. The saturation magnetisation (Ms) decreases as the annealing temperature rises. In addition, the coercive fields (Hc) increases as the annealing temperature rises. As a result, the annealing temperature affects the performance of the CoFe2O4 photocatalyst. The photocatalytic performance of the annealing temperature sample at 300°C was found to be the best. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present systematic review investigated the concentration of chromium (Cr) and cobalt (Co) in serum in patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA). The first outcome of interest was to investigate the mean concentration in serum of Cr and Co using different material combinations and to verify whether their concentrations change significantly using different patterns of head and liner in THA. The second outcome of interest was to investigate whether the time elapsed from the index surgery to the follow-up, BMI, sex, and side exert an influence on the mean concentration of Cr and Co in serum in patients who have undergone THA. The following material combinations were investigated (head-liner): Ceramic-Co Cr (CoCr), CoCr-CoCr, CoCr-Polyethylene, CoCr high carbide-CoCr high carbide. Data from 2756 procedures were retrieved. The mean length of follow-up was 69.3 ± 47.7 months. The ANOVA test evidenced good comparability in age, length of follow-up, BMI, and sex (P > 0.1). In patients who have undergone THA, the mean concentration in the serum of Co ranged between 0.5 µg/L and 3.5 µg/L, and the mean concentration of Cr from 0.6 to 2.6 µg/L. The difference in the concentration of Co and Cr in serum is strictly related to the implant configuration, with the coupling CoCr-CoCr showing the highest and CoCr-Polyethylene showing the lowest concentration. Patient characteristics, BMI, sex, side and the time elapsed from the index surgery to the last follow-up did not exert a significant influence on the concentration of Co and Cr in serum in patients who have undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective(s): Cobalt toxicity has become a health concern in recent years, due to overexposure resulting in neurological impairments. With a growing interest in the therapeutic roles of herbs, in toxicity research, it’s worth looking into the curative effects of aqueous Prosopis africana seed extract, a plant rich in flavonoids on cobalt-induced neurotoxicity. Materials and Methods: We treated rats with CoCl2 or CoCl2 in combination with aqueous PA seed extract (PAE) orally for 14 days. Control rats received distilled water for the same period. Following treatments, behavioral experiments, analysis for oxidative stress, inflammation, and histological and immunohistochemical analysis were performed. Results: Results revealed that CoCl2 reduced the exploration time, recognition index in the novel object recognition test, percentage spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze tests, and reduced open arm entry and duration in elevated plus-maze. However, treatment with PAE improved these parameters to levels comparable with those of the control group. Furthermore, PAE therapy reduced CoCl2-induced surge in hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, TNF-α and IL-1β levels in brain homogenate, while also increasing superoxide dismutase and reduced reduced-glutathione activities. CoCl2 exposure resulted in obvious features of neurodegeneration like nuclear disintegration, nuclear shrinkage, and cytoplasmic vacuolations of the cells of the hippocampus and amygdala, with an increased expression of GFAP. The hippocampal and amygdala histology improved after PAE administration, while exacerbated GFAP expressions were attenuated. Conclusion: These findings imply that PAE may be anxiolytic and can help reduce cognitive impairments and hippocampal damage caused by CoCl2 neurotoxicity, via mechanisms that involve attenuation of oxidative stress and inflammation.