Search

The research paper extensively covers the phenomenon of bioaccumulation, focusing on its impact in freshwater ecosystems, particularly on fish. It details how heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic, originating from industrial pollution, agricultural runoff, and atmospheric deposition, accumulate in fish tissues over time. The abstract highlights the adverse effects of such bioaccumulation on fish health, including reproduction issues, growth abnormalities, and organ damage. It also underscores the consequent risks to human health when these contaminated fish are consumed. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing heavy metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems through effective waste management, reduction of industrial discharges, sustainable agricultural practices, and regular monitoring of fish populations. This approach is crucial to manage and mitigate the risks of heavy metal bioaccumulation in freshwater fish, thereby protecting both aquatic life and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study utilizes the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018 data to explore the relationship between exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances (specifically perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), metals lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd), allostatic load, and hepatic disease markers, including the fatty liver index a measure of the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin. The paper identified significant associations and interaction effects by employing descriptive statistics, Spearman's correlation analysis, linear regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). Descriptive statistics highlight sex-specific differences in contaminant levels. Spearman's analysis underscores strong correlations among metals and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Linear regression reveals significant impacts of specific contaminants on AST, ALT, ALP, and bilirubin levels, adjusting for age and alcohol consumption. BKMR results further elucidate the complex, potentially synergistic relationships between these environmental exposures and the likelihood of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, offering nuanced insights into their combined effects on liver health. The findings emphasize the intricate dynamics of environmental exposures on hepatic function, advocating for targeted public health interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to certain chemicals prenatally and in childhood can impact development and may increase risk for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Leveraging a larger set of literature searches conducted to synthesize results from longitudinal studies of potentially modifiable risk factors for childhood ADHD, we present meta-analytic results from 66 studies that examined the associations between early chemical exposures and later ADHD diagnosis or symptoms. Studies were eligible for inclusion if the chemical exposure occurred at least 6 months prior to measurement of ADHD diagnosis or symptomatology. Included papers were published between 1975 and 2019 on exposure to anesthetics (n = 5), cadmium (n = 3), hexachlorobenzene (n = 4), lead (n = 22), mercury (n = 12), organophosphates (n = 7), and polychlorinated biphenyls (n = 13). Analyses are presented for each chemical exposure by type of ADHD outcome reported (categorical vs. continuous), type of ADHD measurement (overall measures of ADHD, ADHD symptoms only, ADHD diagnosis only, inattention only, hyperactivity/impulsivity only), and timing of exposure (prenatal vs. childhood vs. cumulative), whenever at least 3 relevant effect sizes were available. Childhood lead exposure was positively associated with ADHD diagnosis and symptoms in all analyses except for the prenatal analyses (odds ratios (ORs) ranging from 1.60 to 2.62, correlation coefficients (CCs) ranging from 0.14 to 0.16). Other statistically significant associations were limited to organophosphates (CC = 0.11, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03–0.19 for continuous measures of ADHD outcomes overall), polychlorinated biphenyls (CC = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02–0.14 for continuous measures of inattention as the outcome), and both prenatal and childhood mercury exposure (CC = 0.02, 95% CI: 0.00–0.04 for continuous measures of ADHD outcomes overall for either exposure window). Our findings provide further support for negative impacts of prenatal and/or childhood exposure to certain chemicals and raise the possibility that primary prevention and targeted screening could prevent or mitigate ADHD symptomatology. Furthermore, these findings support the need for regular review of regulations as our scientific understanding of the risks posed by these chemicals evolves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the greatest challenges facing global environmental science is the protection of aquatic from heavy metal contamination stemming from human activities. This article is intended as a response to the global dynamic evolution of industries, transportation, increased extraction of fossil fuels, ever-rising consumption patterns, and unregulated discharge of wastewater resulting in increasing of environmental pollution with heavy metals. The aim of the article extends beyond the mere identification of heavy metals in the environment; it encompasses a comprehensive analysis of their modes of transportation and fate, a thorough evaluation of their impacts on various trophic levels, and an in-depth exploration of their potential toxicity. Furthermore, this article looks toward a fresh era in environmental stewardship, characterized by a deep-seated commitment to improving the removal of such damaging pollutants from our environment. To continue to foster ecological and economic sustainability, as set out in the Sustainable Development Goals 2015, and develop global environmental policy, there is an increasing need for pioneering and comprehensive methods of environmental reclamation aimed at eradicating heavy metals from surface waters. Such comprehensive methods include ecohydrological biotechnologies and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) based on knowledge of geochemical and molecular processes. Both are presented in this article under the global principle of 'One Health' - the health of the environment, people and animals. Due to its extensive effects on ecosystems, and the resulting need for international cooperation, it is crucial that the problem of heavy metal contamination is addressed on the global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contents of biogenic and risk elements in the pomace of 6 grape cultivars (Blaufränkisch, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Devín, Dunaj, and Merlot) were analyzed in this study. Content of K, Ca, P, Mg, and Na was 11 750 - 19 070, 2 400 - 3 908, 1 678 - 2 684, 336 - 760, and 1.43 - 59.3 mg.kg-1 DM respectively. Content of Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cr, and Co was 79.5 - 245, 6.18 - 48.4, 10.3 - 22.6, 4.19 - 17.0, 0.66 - 1.36, 0.058 - 2.33, and 0.42 - 0.63 mg.kg-1 DM respectively. Pb and Cd were detected in the grape pomace of Merlot (0.94 and 0.03 mg.kg-1 DM, respectively) and Cabernet Sauvignon (0.36 and 0.08 mg.kg-1 DM, respectively). The total content of Hg ranged from 0.0055 to 0.0080 mg.kg-1 DM. Analysis of variance showed that there are differences in the content of elements among cultivars. Grape pomace of cultivars Blaufränkisch and Cabernet Sauvignon could be characterized by the higher Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, and Cr content, while grape pomace of cultivar Merlot by higher Mg content. With relatively low content of risk elements, grape pomace can serve as a good source of essential minerals in the human diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The aim of this study was to investigate heavy metal(loid)s (Cd, Pb, Hg, Cr, Mn, Mo, Ni, and As) in lung cancer patients in order to elucidate their role as lung cancer environmental risk factors. Sixty-three patients of both sexes with adenocarcinoma stage IIIB or IV were enrolled in this research. The heavy metal(loid) urine concentrations were measured using ICP-MS. Arsenic was quantified above 10 μg/L in 44.44% of the samples. Nickel urinary concentrations above the ToxGuide reference levels were found in 50.79% of the samples, while lead was quantified in 9.52% of the urine samples. The urinary chromium levels were above the mean ToxGuide levels in 41.27% of the patients and were significantly higher in men in comparison with women (p = 0.035). The chromium urinary concentrations were positively associated with the CRP serum levels (p = 0.037). Cadmium was quantified in 61.90% of the samples with levels significantly higher in females than in males (p = 0.023), which was associated with smoking habits. Mercury was measured above the limit of quantification in 63.49% of the samples and was not associated with amalgam dental fillings. However, the Hg urinary concentrations were correlated positively with the ALT (p = 0.02), AST (p < 0.001), and GGT (p < 0.001) serum levels. In 46.03% of the samples, the Mo concentrations were above 32 μg/L, the mean value for healthy adults according to the ToxGuide, and 9.52% of the patients had Mn levels higher than 8 μg/L, the reference value for healthy adults based on ToxGuide data. The obtained results are preliminary, and further studies are needed to have a deeper insight into metal(loid) exposure's association with lung cancer development, progression, and survival prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectivesThe purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between blood levels of cadmium, lead, and mercury and anxiety in American adults.MethodsBlood metals and self-reported anxiety days were extracted from laboratory data and questionnaire data, respectively, using NHANES data from 2007–2012. Weighted logistic regression was used to assess the relationship between cadmium, lead and mercury with anxiety. Restricted cubic spline was used to visualize the non-linear relationship between metal concentrations and anxiety. Weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression was used to investigate the effect of combined exposure to the three metals on anxiety.ResultsThe prevalence of anxiety in adults was 26.0%. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, cadmium levels in the highest quartile (Q4) were associated with a higher risk of anxiety compared to the lowest quartile (Q1) (OR = 1.279, 95% CI: 1.113–1.471, p < 0.01). Restricted cubic spline analysis indicated a positive association between blood cadmium levels and anxiety. Furthermore, co-exposure to multiple heavy metals was positively associated with anxiety risk (WQS positive: OR = 1.068, 95% CI: 1.016–1.160, p < 0.05), with cadmium contributing the most to the overall mixture effect. Compared to the Light RPA, the Vigorous/Moderate RPA group had a relatively low risk of anxiety after cadmium exposure.ConclusionHigh levels of blood cadmium are positively associated with the development of anxiety disorders, which needs to be further verified in future studies.

Simple Summary: Eggs are a valuable source of nutrients, including proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Moreover, they are also a healthy, nutritious, and easily digestible food. In the last decade, the rearing of chickens at home has been promoted and spread in several Italian communities and throughout the world as a means of promoting the self-consumption of home-produced food. These interventions have been successful because chickens are friendly and colourful pets, and they are inexpensive to buy and feed. However, backyard chickens are potentially exposed to different types of contaminants, such as heavy metals, pesticides, and other chemicals, due to their free access to the natural environment. This study focuses on the presence of four toxic elements in eggs from free-range hens raised in a large park and organic eggs bought at the supermarket. Domestic chicken farming has been promoted and spread in several Italian municipalities and worldwide as an aid to the self-consumption of domestically produced food. This study investigated the levels of four toxic elements (As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) in eggs from an ethical laying hen farm, comparing the element concentrations with those possibly present in supermarket eggs. A total of 201 eggs, 141 from the farm and produced by different hen genotypes, and 60 from the supermarket, were collected. The levels of the toxic elements were evaluated in the yolk, albumen, and eggshells of all eggs. The results show that the supermarket eggs' yolk and albumen were more contaminated with lead, compared to the rural eggs. Contrarily, the mean content of arsenic was higher in the albumen and eggshells of the rural eggs, compared to the supermarket eggs. The cadmium content was below the LOQ (0.005 mg/kg) in all samples. The mercury content was below or around the LOQ in all rural eggs. Overall, the supermarket egg albumens were significantly more contaminated than the rural ones. No significant differences were found in quality parameters for both types of eggs. The toxic element values that were detected were in line with other studies in the literature. However, despite the concentrations found not representing a risk to the consumers' health, the results of this study raise a potential food safety issue, and it would be desirable to set specific MRLs for eggs for consumers' protection. [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]

Exposure of individuals to heavy metals (HMs) is a growing concern with far-reaching implications for human health. HMs encompass a diverse range of elements that, when present in excess or in particular chemical forms, have the potential to elicit adverse effects on the central nervous system and cognitive function. This systematic review aims to comprehensively investigate the relationship between exposure to HMs and neurocognitive function in adults. The methodological framework for this review adheres rigorously to the Meta-analyses Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (MOOSE) guidelines. A meticulous and extensive search strategy was executed within PubMed and Web of Science, specifically targeting articles published in the English language until the cutoff date of December 5, 2023. The evaluation of the retrieved studies was systematically conducted by employing the assessment approach outlined by (Gascon et al. in Environ Int 86 60 67, 2016). The initial search yielded a substantial pool of 1573 articles, culminating in a refined selection comprising eight pertinent studies, collectively enrolling a participant cohort totalling n = 1,828,126. Notably, the studies under review predominantly manifested a cross-sectional or cohort design and were geographically situated within the continents of North America and Asia. Furthermore, it is imperative to underscore that a predominant and recurring observation emanating from the majority of the scrutinized investigations underscores a significant correlation between exposure to cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) and deleterious neurocognitive outcomes in the adult population. In summary, our systematic review postulates that exposure to HMs through various routes of exposure harbors the potential for adverse effects on adult neurocognitive function; however, it is incumbent upon future research endeavors to validate and corroborate these findings through further empirical exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]