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Key message: Cd induces photosynthetic inhibition and oxidative stress damage in H. citrina, which mobilizes the antioxidant system and regulates the expression of corresponding genes to adapt to Cd and Pb stress. Cd and Pb are heavy metals that cause severe pollution and are highly hazardous to organisms. Physiological measurements and transcriptomic analysis were combined to investigate the effect of 5 mM Cd or Pb on Hemerocallis citrina Baroni. Cd significantly inhibited H. citrina growth, while Pb had a minimal impact. Both Cd and Pb suppressed the expression levels of key chlorophyll synthesis genes, resulting in decreased chlorophyll content. At the same time, Cd accelerated chlorophyll degradation. It reduced the maximum photochemical efficiency of photosystem (PS) II, damaging the oxygen-evolving complex and leading to thylakoid dissociation. In contrast, no such phenomena were observed under Pb stress. Cd also inhibited the Calvin cycle by down-regulating the expression of Rubisco and SBPase genes, ultimately disrupting the photosynthetic process. Cd impacted the light reaction processes by damaging the antenna proteins, PS II and PS I activities, and electron transfer rate, while the impact of Pb was weaker. Cd significantly increased reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde accumulation, and inhibited the activities of antioxidant enzymes and the expression levels of the corresponding genes. However, H. citrina adapted to Pb stress by the recruitment of antioxidant enzymes and the up-regulation of their corresponding genes. In summary, Cd and Pb inhibited chlorophyll synthesis and hindered the light capture and electron transfer processes, with Cd exerting great toxicity than Pb. These results elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which H. citrina responds to Cd and Pb stress and provide a solid basis for the potential utilization of H. citrina in the greening of heavy metal-polluted lands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anomalous increases or deficits in the human body can be detected by the development of accurate and sensitive methods for metal quantification in low-level concentrations. Two digestion procedures have been tested on whole blood samples for use in inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry trace metal analysis (ICP-OES). The two procedures are, (microwave digestion with nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide), and (simple dilution digestion with nitric acid, N-butanol, and Triton X-100). According to the findings, the overall recoveries of all determining metals for the microwave digestion were in the range of (96%) of the expected levels, whereas for simple dilution digestion they were in the range of (85–88%) of the expected levels. The results showed a significant difference in the recovery ratios in favor of lead (Pd) and cadmium (Cd) between simple dilution and microwave digestion procedures. The findings also show that the content of these metals may be reliably measured using simple dilution and microwave digestion procedures. Abbreviations: ICP-OES: Induction coupled optical emission spectroscopy; LOD: Limit of detection; LOQ: Limit quantification; AAPCC: American Association of Poison Control Centers; NAUSS: Naif Arab University for Security Sciences; %RSD: Relative standard deviation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano-sized biochar, which is a small structure prepared from biochar by grinding, has surpassed traditional biochar in performance, showing enhanced effects and potential for a wide range of environmental applications. Firstly, this paper visualizes and analyzes the literature in this field by CiteSpace to clarify the development trend of nano-sized biochar. The review intuitively shows the most influential countries, the most productive institutions, and the most concerned hot spots in the field of nano-sized biochar. Secondly, these hotspots in environment management are summarized by keywords and clustering: (1) The application of ball milling is a modification scheme that researchers have paid attention to, and it is also a key method for preparing biochar nanomaterials. It has a more dispersed structure and can support more modified materials. (2) Nano-sized biochar in the comprehensive utilization of water, soil, and plants was discussed and is a small range of application modification methods. (3) The bidirectional effects of nano-sized biochar on plants were analyzed, and the challenges in its application were listed. Finally, the economic management of nano-sized biochar and the relationship between microorganisms are the focus of the next research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Wild boars, being a common game species, inhabit regions across Eurasia, the southern regions of Asia and certain Indonesian islands. Being omnivorous and due to their relatively long lifespan, wide distribution and a relatively high number of shot animals per annual legal hunting season, they are suitable to be biological indicators of occurrence of heavy metals. Concentrations of cadmium, lead, arsenic and mercury were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry and cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry in the livers of free-living wild boars (n = 58) from two locations in the Republic of North Macedonia. In all four examined heavy metals, no statistically significant difference between the locations was found (p > 0.05). The mean levels of heavy metals were Cd 0.391 mg/kg and 0.339 mg/kg; Pb 0.213 mg/kg and 0.204 mg/kg; Hg 0.034 mg/kg and 0.037 mg/kg; As 0.035 mg/kg and 0.029 mg/kg in the livers of boars from Bitola and Gevgelija hunting sites, respectively. Although some samples (two samples of Hg, ten samples of Cd and two samples of Pb) exceeded the legal limits, the average values for all heavy metals were far below the maximum permitted values. These findings are promising since they suggest that the ecosystem in the Republic of North Macedonia is stable concerning heavy metal pollution.

Biochar and nanoparticles (NPs) are potential strategies for increasing plant yield and minimizing the negative effects of toxic metals on sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L). The current study aims to reduce the access of toxic elements to the oil extracted from basil plants growing in polluted soils by biochar and NPS of silicon (Si) and boron (B). Sweet basil plants were grown in contaminated soil that contained cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) at concentrations of 58 and 800 mg kg−1, respectively. The experiment included two doses of biochar (0 and 1%, w/w) and four foliar combinations of Si and B nanoparticles at the dose of 100 mg L−1 of Si and/or B. Cd and Pb availability were reduced by 44 and 48%, respectively, compared to the control. The soil pH raised significantly (p < 0.05) as a result of biochar addition. Furthermore, biochar addition at the dose of 1%, (w/w) caused a 14% increase in the soil organic matter. The highest growth parameters of basil plants were obtained from the biochar treatment with Si + B NPs foliar application. The treatment that was amended with biochar and sprayed with Si + B showed the greatest significant values of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) content in basil plants. The chlorophyll content of basil leaves rose along with the synthesis of proline and soluble carbohydrates after the addition of biochar to the polluted soil and Si + B spraying. Biochar minimized Cd in the leaf and oil by 48 and 49%, respectively, compared to the control, while Pb concentrations were reduced by 29 and 49%, respectively. The oil extracted from the basil plants grown in the soil amended with biochar contained 50–52 and 23–26 μg kg−1 of Cd and Pb, respectively. Adding biochar to the contaminated soil increases the oil yield of sweet basil and reduces its content of toxic elements, while spraying the basil plant with silicon and boron nanoparticles increases the plant's resistance to metal toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to assess the feasibility and efficiency of electrokinetic (EK) remediation of soil contaminated with As, Cd, Cu, and Pb using the biodegradable chelator N, N-bis(carboxymethyl)-tetrasodium salt (GLDA) at the pilot scale. Materials and methods: The experiments were performed under a constant voltage (40 V) in an EK reactor (100 cm (length) × 50 cm (width) × 25 cm (height)) for over 100 days using various enhancement strategies. The current, electroosmotic flow (EOF), microstructure, mineral composition of the soil samples (before and after EK remediation), removal efficiencies, chemical forms, and ecotoxicity risks of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were determined. Results and discussion: The results showed gradual decreases in the electrical current and EOF over time. The spatial distribution of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb in the soil solution and electrolyte revealed that the removed metals primarily accumulated in anolytes. The soil As, Cd, and Cu contents, especially near the anode, showed gradual reductions. The total removal efficiencies of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were 49.4%, 44.0%, 53.6%, and 36.6%, respectively. Overall, the ecotoxicity risks of the remaining As, Cd, Cu, and Pb were below the initial values. A soil microstructure and mineral composition analysis indicated that the GLDA-enhanced EK technology effectively removed As, Cd, Cu, and Pb by dissolving soil minerals and breaking chemical bonds. The unit energy consumption ranged from 1.25 to 1.83 kW·h/t/%, indicating lower or comparable values to the data in the literature. Conclusions: The biodegradable chelator, GLDA, has been shown to remove different types of potentially toxic elements using enhancement strategies on a pilot scale with low unit energy consumption. Arsenic migrated to the anode in the anionic form, and the complexes formed by Cd, Cu, and Pb with GLDA were negatively charged and moved toward the cathode. After the EK treatment, the ecotoxicity risks of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb decreased with a reduction in the contents and the chemical form changes of As, Cd, Cu, and Pb. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coast of Tanjung Mas, Semarang City, is an industrial area used by the community to cultivate milkfish using stick-net pens. Furthermore, heavy metal contamination such as Cr, Cd, Cu, and Pb potentially disrupts milkfish meat's growth, quality, and safety. This study aims to determine heavy metals concentration in the waters and milkfish meat in stick-net pens cultivation in Tanjung Mas, Semarang City. The study was conducted using exploration, with five observation sites representing household waste disposal flow, industrial discharge, open sea, and intermediate areas. The observation sites were selected based on the milkfish cultivation activity. The sample and data, including water, milkfish, and environmental factors (temperature, pH, salinity, water current, and dissolved oxygen), were collected three times every two weeks. The heavy metals were detected using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The highest heavy metal concentration is Cr, which ranges from 1.70 ± 0.32 ppm to 2.36 ± 0.63 ppm in milkfish and 2.77 ± 0.65 ppm to 3.05 ± 0.58 ppm in the environment. The heavy metals contamination in Semarang City's water areas is still relatively low and has no impact on milkfish growth. Industrial waste, mainly heavy metals, potentially threatens the stick-net pens cultivation model developed by the community in Semarang City. This study can be used as an input for mitigation and adaptive action in anticipating future environmental changes and maintaining their business sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new method for the rapid detection of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and arsenic (As) elements in pig premixed feeds by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy was investigated. Samples were added to starch and water, pasted in a water bath at 94 ℃ and scanned by EDXRF spectroscopy, with copper spectral identification for characterisation and standard addition method for quantification. The results showed that the EDXRF spectral peaks of each element were interference-free and the method was well linear (R2 >0.998) in the concentration range examined; the limits of detection were 1.06 mg/kg, 1.68 mg/kg and 1.97 mg/kg for Cd, Pb and As, respectively. The overall recoveries were 93.72%-105.10% and the overall relative standard deviations were 2.30%-9.40%. The method is simple, rapid, accurate and reliable, and can meet the needs of rapid determination of Cd, Pb and As in pig premixed feeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-transport of contaminants by soil colloids can generate substantial environmental risk, and this behavior is greatly affected by environmental conditions. In this study, AF4-ICP-MS was used to investigate the size distribution and composition of Cd/Pb-bearing colloids; saturated sand column experiments were used to investigate the impact of soil colloids on the transport of Cd/Pb under different pH and ionic strength conditions. AF4-ICP-MS characterization showed that natural colloids were primarily associated with two sizes ranges: 0.3–35 KDa (F1, fine nanoparticles) and 280 KDa–450 nm (F2, larger nanoparticles), which mainly consisted of organic matter (OM), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) (oxy)hydroxides and clay minerals. Fine nanoparticles could strongly adsorb Cd and Pb under all environmental conditions. Mn and Fe (oxy)hydroxides generally formed under neutral to alkaline conditions and exhibited adsorption capabilities for Cd and Pb, respectively. Transport experiments were conducted under different pH and ionic strength conditions. At pH 3.0, soil colloids had little effect on the transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+. At pH 5.0, soil colloids inhibited the transport of Cd2+ by 16.1%, and Pb2+ recovery was still 0.0%. At pH 7.0 and 9.0, soil colloids facilitated the transport of Cd2+ by 15.6% and 29.6%, facilitated Pb2+ by 1.3% and 6.4%. At an ionic strength of 0, 0.005, and 0.01 mol L−1 NaNO3, soil colloids facilitated the transport of Cd2+ by 77.7%, 45.8%, and 15.6%, only facilitated the transport of Pb2+ by 46.2% at an ionic strength of 0 mol L−1 NaNO3. At an ionic strength of 0.05 mol L−1 NaNO3, soil colloids inhibited the transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+ by 33.1% and 21.0%, respectively. The transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+ facilitated by soil colloids was clearly observed under low ionic strength and non-acidic conditions, which can generate a potential environmental risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymetallic exposure causes complex toxicity to microorganisms. In this study, we investigated the responses of Escherichia coli under co-existence of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), primarily based on biochemical analysis and RNA sequencing. Cd completely inhibited bacterial growth at a concentration of 2.41 mmol/L, with its removal rate as low as <10%. In contrast, the Pb removal rate was >95% under equimolar sole Pb stress. In addition, the Raman analysis confirmed the loss of proteins for the bacterial cells. Under the co-existence of Cd and Pb, the Cd toxicity to E. coli was alleviated. Meanwhile, the biosorption of Pb cations was more intense during the competitive sorption with Cd. Transmission electron microscopy images showed that a few cells were elongated during incubation, i.e., the average cellular length increased from 1.535 ± 0.407 to 1.845 ± 0.620 µm. Moreover, NanoSIMS imaging showed that the intracellular distribution of Cd and Pb was coupled with sulfur. Genes regulating sulfate transporter were also upregulated to promote sulfate assimilation. Then, the subsequent production of biogenic sulfide and sulfur-containing amino acids was enhanced. Although this strategy based on S enrichment could resist the polymetallic stress, not all related genes were induced to upregulate under sole Cd stress. Therefore, the S metabolism might remodel the microbial resistance to variable occurrence of heavy metals. Furthermore, the competitive sorption (in contrast to sole Cd stress) could prevent microbial cells from strong Cd toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a new sorbent was synthesized based on the in-situ growth of the combined ZIF-67 and ZIF-8 on the surface of MIL101. Finally, the adsorbent was made into a thin film with the help of polyvinylidene difluoride polymer and was used in the TFME technique for the simultaneous measurement of cadmium(II) and lead(II) metal ions in aqueous and cosmetic samples using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. In order to achieve maximum efficiency and sensitivity, parameters affecting the extraction and desorption processes were optimized. Under the optimized condition, the linearity of the method, the limit of detections (LODs), the limit of quantifications (LOQs), the relative standard deviations (RSDs%), and enrichment factors (EFs) were equal with 0.2-150.0 µg l-1, 0.059-0.159 µg l-1, 0.197-0.530 µg l-1, 1.2 to 2.5% and 73-75, in water matrix, respectively. Then the optimal conditions for Pb and Cd were used in water and cosmetics samples by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and acceptable results were obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fuel cells are one excellent option for converting energy through green technology. Due to its accessibility and high-energy density, glucose can be employed as a fuel in fuel cells. In this study, hydroxyapatite (HAp) was prepared by the precipitation method, and carbon-doped HAp supported PbHfCd (PbHfCd/C-HAp) composite electrocatalysts at varying metal ratios for the glucose electrooxidation were synthesized via NaBH4 reduction method. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDX), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), elemental mapping, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to evaluate the chemical structure, crystallinity, and morphological characteristics of the PbHfCd/C-HAp. Chronoamperometry (CA), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were utilized to scrutinize the electrocatalytic activity and stability of PbHfCd/C-Haps for glucose electrooxidation. The findings demonstrate that HAp enhances the glucose electrooxidation of PbHfCd alloy. With a specific activity of 4.73 mA/cm2, Pb80Hf10Cd10/C-HAp is the most stable and active anode electrocatalyst in this work, outperforming HAp by 4.9 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of heavy metals Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in the leaves of Betula pubescens were analyzed at ten sites along the pollution gradient near the Middle Ural copper smelter. The studies were carried out during the period of moderate emissions (2009) and after their reduction to a minimum (2019). Leaf samples were collected in early and late summer. Cu and Cd showed a strong negative correlation with the distance to the smelter. The interannual differences are most pronounced for Pb, the concentration of which significantly decreased in 2019 at the sites closest to the smelter compared to 2009. In both years, the concentrations of metals in the leaves increased towards the end of the growing season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) was electrodeposited on carbon cloth (CC) substrates using cyclic voltammetry (CV). The combination of ERGO and CC provides a simple, high-surface-area sensor that is sensitive to heavy metals such as lead and cadmium. The ERGO-CC deposition was optimized to detect dissolved lead and cadmium ions. Lead was detectable down to 0.25 nM, and cadmium down to 40 nM (S/N > 3). The sensors were able to detect both HMI with no interference in the presence of other ions and a real water sample. Furthermore, the sensor substrate size was scalable down to a single thread. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cereals and cereal-based foods continue to be basic foods in all diets. Despite being known for their high nutritional value; they can also contain contaminants (hazards) such as toxic metals. This study assesses the Cd, Pb and Hg dietary exposure from cereals and derivatives marketed in Madeira and the Azores and characterizes the risks by evaluating the Cd and Hg intake contributions to the tolerable intakes and by estimating the Margin of Exposure (MOE) in the case of Pb. In Madeira, metals follow the descending order of Cd > Pb > Hg. Cd stands out as having the highest levels (0.307 mg Cd/kg in oats; 0.237 mg/kg in rye). High levels of Pb (0.347 mg/kg) were also detected in rye. Regarding total mercury, rice stands out (0.0013 mg/kg) followed by wheat (0.001 mg/kg). While all cereals and derivatives except maize consumed in Madeira exceed the maximum value of Cd allowed by the EU, 50.0% of the rye and 25.0% of the corn flour samples exceeded the European Pb limit. The daily consumption of 100 g of oats, rye flour and rye represent high contributions to the TWI of Cd (93.2 – 120%). The MOE values of Pb from the consumption of rye (100 g/day) are 1,294 (nephrotoxic effects) and 3,082 (cardiotoxic effects). In the Azores, corn flour (0.72 mg Pb/kg) stands out with 85.7% of the samples exceeding the maximum Pb EU limit and MOE values of 626 (nephrotoxic effects) and 1,490 (cardiotoxic effects). Regular daily consumption of corn flour makes a low (< 10%) contribution to the Cd TDI. In conclusion, the Pb exposure from the consumption of cereals and derivatives could have toxic effects such as nephrotoxicity or cardiotoxicity in adults. The results highlight the need to set up monitoring and surveillance programs for the safety of cereals and their derivatives in Madeira and the Azores in terms of lead and cadmium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bivalves Mollusks have a potential benefit which include protection from anemia due to its content of iron and vit B12 in addition they pose a threat in promoting the ability to be contaminated by different heavy metals residues as a result of mining, industrial production untreated sewage sludge. Hg, Pb, Cd, As and Cr are the main five toxic heavy metals that induce human poisoning. For evaluation of Hg, Pb, Cd, As and Cr residues in Bivalve Mollusks in Fayoum province and their potential hazards, a total of 64 random samples of Bivalve Mollusks (Callista Florida species) were collected from the fish markets of Fayoum City, (Wadi Elrayan), Egypt The results revealed that the mean residues of Hg, Pb, Cd, As and Cr were 0.75, 0.77, 0.089, 7.285 and 0.011 mg/kg/ww, respectively. All samples examined for Hg and As exceeded the PML while Pb and Cd lied with the PML The collected samples were subjected to soaking in running water for 30 minutes; soaking in 5% acetic acid solution for 30 minutes and boiling with 5% acetic acid solution for 15 minutes .The heights reduction % of heavy metals residual levels were recorded after treatment in boiling 5% acetic acid treatment with the following reduction %; Hg (80%), Pb (67.6%), Cd (77.5%), As (44.35%) and Cr (75.76%). The assessment of Hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) value was exceeded 1 which indicates a potential risk to human health and TR was > 1x10-4 which indicates a carcinogenic risk to the local consumers and will face high chronic risk if they consume Bivalve Mollusks on regular basis in their diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among a number of climate-related factors, moisture has the greatest impact on crop productivity. In recent years, certain changes have been observed under conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine with regard to precipitation – from low to in some cases – abnormally high, which requires the study of their impact on the yield and safety of cereal grain for its forecasted production. The article examined the effect of a high level of soil moisture (256.2 mm – 272.5 mm) and a low level (47.4 mm – 52.3 mm) during the growing season (germination→earing) of spring barley grain on the accumulation of heavy metals in it and its productivity under the conditions of gray forest soils of the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine. Spring barley varieties Helios and Caesar were selected for the research. A decrease in the accumulation coefficient at a high level of soil moisture (256.6 mm – 272.5 mm) in spring barley grain Pb from 8.3% to 11.3%, Cd – from 35.0% to 35.5%, Zn was established – by 15% and Cu – from 11.2% to 16.6% compared to the low level of soil moisture (47.1 mm – 53.3 mm). At the same time, it was found that with a high level of soil moisture, there is a decrease in the yield of Helios and Caesar spring barley by 18.0% and 14.1%, respectively.

Water pollution is a major global challenge due to the fast expansion of industrial activities and the increasing human population. Certain heavy metals can be exceedingly hazardous and contribute significantly to water contamination. In this study, iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) were synthesized using cyanobacteria extract to remove heavy metals (Cd and Pb) from the wastewater. To characterize the IONPs, several analytical techniques were employed such as Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy revealed a SPR (surface plasmon resonance) peak at 348 nm and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectral analysis showed the OH, C–H and S=O functional groups which confirmed the biomolecules responsible for the biogenic synthesis and stability. The surface morphology of the biogenic IONPs was investigated using SEM (scanning electron microscopy) which reveled their nearly spherical or cubic shape. Additionally, XRD (X-ray diffraction) analysis confirmed the crystallinity of IONPs, with a crystalline size measuring 18.21 nm. Effects of contact time, pH, initial metal ions concentrations, and IONPs dosage were studied on the adsorption of Cd and Pb ions. Different adsorption kinetics and isotherm models were applied to the experimental data. Pseudo second-order kinetic and Langmuir isotherm models were well fitted to the adsorption of Cd and Pb onto the IONPs. Higher correlation coefficients (R2) values of Langmuir isotherm (R2: 0.990 for Cd and Pb adsorption) and Pseudo second-order kinetic (R2: 0.998 and 0.999 for Cd and Pb adsorption, respectively) were found, which indicated the favorable interaction between the metal ions and adsorbent. Langmuir isotherm calculated maximal adsorption capacities of 105.932 and 118.764 mg/g for Cd and Pb, respectively. Recyclability of IONPs was conducted and after five adsorption/desorption cycles, IONPs retained their adsorption efficiency with negligible decline. After five cycles, IONPs removal efficiency was up to 80.41 and 88.35 % for Cd and Pb, respectively. Results of this study indicate that cyanobacteria-mediated IONPs were efficient adsorbent for Pb and Cd removal from contaminated aqueous solution.

Phytoremediation is the most cost effective and applicable technique to clean contaminated soils. The study was carried out in controlled conditions. Cadmium was applied as only cadmium (30 mgkg−1), and together with a chelator as Cd (30 mgkg−1) + EDTA, in triplicates. Chromium was applied as only chromium (10 mg/kg−1), and together with a chelator as Cr (10 mgkg−1) + EDTA. Similarly, lead was applied as only lead (100 mgkg−1), and together with a chelator as Pb (100 mgkg−1) + EDTA. The highest root and shoot dry weights were detected in lead and chromium applied pots. The highest lead, cadmium and chromium concentrations in the shoot of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var.italica) were found to be 14.0 mgkg−1, 6.67 mg kg-1and, 5.17 mg kg−1, respectively, in the chelated applications. The order of accumulation in the root was Cr > Pb > Cd. Broccoli was shown to be effective in phytoextraction of Pb Chromium was especially accumulated in the roots of broccoli which indicated that this plant was successful for phytostabilization of Cr. Broccoli can be employed for both phytostabilization and phytoextraction of cadmium. The results revealed that broccoli played a role in the remediation of lead, chromium and cadmium heavy metals as a hyper accumulator plant.

This paper presents general research on heavy metal pollution and explains the effect of heavy metal accumulation in the body on blood tests and biochemical assays. This study was conducted at the Faculty of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tikrit with aim to study the effect of lead, cadmium, copper, and molybdenum poisoning on the properties of blood and biochemical assays. The study divided 45 white male mice into five groups, and a group with distilled water as control group. The lead group (PB) received (0.376) mg/kg lead acetate daily, the Cd group received (0.832) mg/kg cadmium chloride, the Cu group received (37.974) mg/kg copper sulfate, and the Mo group received (5) mg/kg ammonium molybdate. The blood parameters were measured by the Mindray BC-30S CBC device, where the red blood cell count (RBC), white blood cell count (WBC), hemoglobin concentration (HGB), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), hematocrit (HCT), intramuscular hemoglobin (MCH), average group hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), and platelet count (PLT) were checked. Biochemical assays as: blood urea nitrogen (BUN) creatinine (CRE), albumin (ALB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were carried out using Cobas 111 C device, Germany. The data were statistically analyzed using the experimental system in the pre-written statistical program Statistical Analysis System (SAS) and the complete random design system (CRD). It was found that there was an increase in the number of white blood cells in the Pb group compared to the control groups, copper, cadmium and Mo groups. Also a decrease in red blood cells in the lead group compared to the control group and other groups was showed, as well as a decrease in HGB compared to the other groups. The decrease of RBC, HGB and HCT may be due to systemic hemolysis. However, in this group was showed rise in WBC, and the cause of this rise is inflammation as a result of the formation of free radicals and oxidation of cell membranes. The results also showed an increase in AST in the Pb, Cu and Cd groups compared to the control group. The kidney tests showed a decrease in albumin in the Pb group compared to the control group, and a significant decrease in BUN in all groups compared to the control group. The results showed that exposure to heavy metals in male mice increased the chance of developing anomalies in the blood system, decreased renal function, and increased liver defects in WBC, blood, and hemoglobin due to hemolysis and irregular liver enzymes. We conclude from the study that exposure to heavy metals can cause blood disorders, liver damage, and kidney failure, regardless of what we advise when assessing the risks associated with exposure to multiple heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic wheat production systems have lower yields compared with intensive conventional production and often do not achieve the grain protein content and quality thresholds set by millers and bakers. In contrast, organic production methods were reported to result in higher concentrations of nutritionally desirable micronutrients and lower concentrations of the toxic metal Cd in wheat grain and wholegrain flour. However, although N-availability and variety characteristics are known to affect both gain yields and bread-making quality, the exact reasons for the yield gap and differences in grain processing and nutritional quality between organic and conventional spring wheat production in the UK are poorly understood. The overall aim of this study was therefore to determine to what extent changes in variety choice and fertilization regimes may reduce the yield gap and improve processing quality without affecting nutritional quality in organic spring wheat production. To achieve this aim, we compared crop health, yield, grain processing, and nutritional quality parameters in spring wheat produced using (i) six contrasting spring wheat varieties grown with a standard fertilization regime and (ii) one variety widely used by organic farmers (Paragon) with nine different fertilization regimes in (iii) three UK sites/farms with contrasting pedoclimatic conditions. Significant differences in foliar disease severity, grain yield, and quality parameters were detected between six contrasting spring wheat varieties when grown under organic management regimes. Specifically, the varieties Paragon and Tybalt were identified as the best-performing varieties with respect to foliar disease resistance and grain yield under organic farming conditions and also produced high processing and nutritional quality across the three UK sites. However, the highest grain yields were obtained by Paragon at the Gilchester site and Tybalt at the Sheepdrove and Courtyard sites, while the highest protein contents were produced by Tybalt at the Gilchester site and Paragon at the Sheepdrove and Courtyard sites, which suggests that there is a need for site-specific wheat variety selection in the UK organic sector. Although organic fertilizer input type and level also affected wheat performance, differences between fertilization regimes were smaller than those observed between the five contrasting varieties, which suggests that improvements in spring wheat breeding/selection have a greater potential for increasing crop yield and quality in the organic sector compared with changes to fertilization practices. Overall, results suggest it is feasible to breed/select spring wheat varieties that combine high protein, vitamin E, and micronutrients with low toxic metal (Cd, Pb) concentrations when produced under organic farming conditions. These findings also support the hypothesis that differences in variety choice by organic and conventional farmers have contributed to the differences in nutritional quality between organic and conventional wheat products reported in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrochemically reduced graphene oxide (ERGO) is a promising material for heavy metal ion detection due it its facile synthesis and electroactive defects. A simple ERGO sensor was fabricated directly on a glassy carbon electrode using cyclic voltammetry. Deposition cycles were optimized for sensitivity to the analytes, with 12 cycles found to be ideal. Differential pulse voltammetry was used to detect trace amounts of lead and cadmium, down to 5 nM for lead and 75 nM for cadmium (S/N > 3). The sensors were robust and their data reproducible, even in the presence of iron and zinc ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-transport of contaminants by soil colloids can generate substantial environmental risk, and this behavior is greatly affected by environmental conditions. In this study, AF4-ICP-MS was used to investigate the size distribution and composition of Cd/Pb-bearing colloids; saturated sand column experiments were used to investigate the impact of soil colloids on the transport of Cd/Pb under different pH and ionic strength conditions. AF4-ICP-MS characterization showed that natural colloids were primarily associated with two sizes ranges: 0.3–35 KDa (F1, fine nanoparticles) and 280 KDa–450 nm (F2, larger nanoparticles), which mainly consisted of organic matter (OM), iron (Fe), and manganese (Mn) (oxy)hydroxides and clay minerals. Fine nanoparticles could strongly adsorb Cd and Pb under all environmental conditions. Mn and Fe (oxy)hydroxides generally formed under neutral to alkaline conditions and exhibited adsorption capabilities for Cd and Pb, respectively. Transport experiments were conducted under different pH and ionic strength conditions. At pH 3.0, soil colloids had little effect on the transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+. At pH 5.0, soil colloids inhibited the transport of Cd2+ by 16.1%, and Pb2+ recovery was still 0.0%. At pH 7.0 and 9.0, soil colloids facilitated the transport of Cd2+ by 15.6% and 29.6%, facilitated Pb2+ by 1.3% and 6.4%. At an ionic strength of 0, 0.005, and 0.01 mol L−1 NaNO3, soil colloids facilitated the transport of Cd2+ by 77.7%, 45.8%, and 15.6%, only facilitated the transport of Pb2+ by 46.2% at an ionic strength of 0 mol L−1 NaNO3. At an ionic strength of 0.05 mol L−1 NaNO3, soil colloids inhibited the transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+ by 33.1% and 21.0%, respectively. The transport of Cd2+ and Pb2+ facilitated by soil colloids was clearly observed under low ionic strength and non-acidic conditions, which can generate a potential environmental risk.

Among a number of climate-related factors, moisture has the greatest impact on crop productivity. In recent years, certain changes have been observed under conditions of the Forest-Steppe of Ukraine with regard to precipitation - from low to in some cases - abnormally high, which requires the study of their impact on the yield and safety of cereal grain for its forecasted production. The article examined the effect of a high level of soil moisture (256.2-272.5 mm) and a low level (47.4-52.3 mm) during the growing season (germination-earing) of spring barley grain on the accumulation of heavy metals in it and its productivity under the conditions of gray forest soils of the Right Bank Forest Steppe of Ukraine. Spring barley varieties Helios and Caesar were selected for the research. A decrease in the accumulation coefficient at a high level of soil moisture (256.6-272.5 mm) in spring barley grain Pb from 8.3% to 11.3%, Cd - from 35.0% to 35.5%, Zn was established - by 15% and Cu - from 11.2% to 16.6% compared to the low level of soil moisture (47.1 mm - 53.3 mm). At the same time, it was found that with a high level of soil moisture, there is a decrease in the yield of Helios and Caesar spring barley by 18.0% and 14.1%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding variations in metal levels in biota geographically and under different environmental conditions is essential to determining risk to organisms themselves and to their predators. It is often difficult to determine food chain relationships because predators may eat several different prey types. Horseshoe crab (Limulus polyphemus) eggs form the basis for a complex food web in Delaware Bay, New Jersey, USA. Female horseshoe crabs lay thumb-sized clutches of eggs, several cm below the surface, and often dislodge previously laid eggs that are brought to the surface by wave action, where they are accessible and critical food for migrant shorebirds. This paper compares metal and metalloid (chromium [Cr], cadmium [Cd], lead [Pb], mercury [Hg], arsenic [As] and selenium [Se]) concentrations in horseshoe crab eggs collected on the surface with concentrations in eggs from clutches excavated from below the sand surface, as well as examining metals in eggs from different parts of the Bay. The eggs were all collected in May 2019, corresponding to the presence of the four main species of shorebirds migrating through Delaware Bay. These migrating birds eat almost entirely horseshoe crab eggs during their stopover in Delaware Bay, and there are differences in the levels of metals in blood of different shorebirds. These differences could be due to whether they have access to egg clutches below sand (ruddy turnstones, Arenaria interpres) or only to eggs on the surface (the threatened red knot [Calidris canutus rufa] and other species of shorebirds). Correlations between metals in clutches were also examined. Except for As and Cd, there were no significant differences between the metals in crab egg clutches and eggs on the surface that shorebirds, gulls, and other predators eat. There were significant locational differences in metal levels in horseshoe crab eggs (except for Pb), with most metals being highest in the sites on the lower portion of Delaware Bay. Most metals in crab eggs have declined since studies were conducted in the mid-1990s but were similar to levels in horseshoe crab eggs in 2012. The data continue to provide important monitoring and assessment information for a keystone species in an ecosystem that supports many species, including threatened and declining shorebird species during spring migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was conducted to investigate the effects of salicylic acid and rice husk ash on Pb and Cd concentration in pinto bean plants grown in soil that was contaminated with both diesel oil and heavy metals. Methods: The treatments in this study included the application of rice husk ash to soil at concentrations of 0 %, 4 %, and 8 % (W/W) as well as the foliar application of salicylic acid to pinto bean plants grown in soil contaminated with diesel oil, Cd, and Pb at concentrations of 0 %, 4 % and 8 % (W/W). After a growth period of 90 days, the pinto bean plant was harvested and the concentration of Pb and Cd in the plants was measured using Atomic absorption spectroscopy. In addition, the extent of diesel oil bio-degradation in the soil was determined. Results: The results indicate a significant reduction in the concentration of Cd and Pb in pinto bean plants (by 11.7 and 15.4 %, respectively) due to the application of rice husk ash (8 % (W/W)) in the soil. Furthermore, the bio-degradation of diesel oil in the soil was found to be significantly enhanced, while the activity of plant enzymes APX and POX was observed to be decreased. Conclusion: The interaction between rice husk ash and salicylic acid the reduction in Pb and Cd concentration was significantly influenced by, while the bio-degradation of diesel oil in the soil increased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

With global urbanization and industrialization, air pollution has become an inevitable problem. Among air pollutants, toxic metals bound to particulate matter (PM) have a high hazardous potential, contributing to the development of several diseases, including various types of cancer. Due to PM pollution, Serbia is considered to be among the most polluted countries in Europe. Therefore, the objective of the study was to assess and characterize the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of children's and adults' exposure to metal(oid)s (Pb, Cd, Ni, and As) bound to PM10 in five of the most polluted areas in the Republic of Serbia (Subotica, Smederevo, Bor, Valjevo, and Kraljevo). Non-carcinogenic (HQ and HI) and carcinogenic risk (CR) were calculated using USEPA methodology. Our results show that PM10 concentrations exceeded the annual limit of 40 μg/m3 at four out of five monitoring sites (ranging from 44.33 to 63.25 μg/m3). Results obtained from Bor monitoring station show that safe limits were exceeded for both children and adults, indicating an unacceptable risk (> 1) obtained for inhalation exposure to the As (HQ = 6.14) and Cd (HQ = 1.17), while total HI was 7.43, which characterized the risk as unacceptable. For the same station, the CR value was 1.44E−04 (> 1 × 10−4). In other sites, the risks were acceptable. The characterized risk from exposure to the toxic elements via PM10 in critical locations in Serbia contributes to improving air quality by requiring regulatory organs to take new actions and adopt new measures to reduce air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is increasing evidence that the reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides and mineral fertilizers in agriculture has significant negative environmental and/or health impacts and poses a risk for future food security. Systematic reviews/meta-analyses showed that organic production systems, which omit the use of agrochemicals, produce crops with lower yields, but superior nutritional composition. However, the agronomic parameters responsible for differences in crop yields and nutritional quality are poorly understood. Methods: Here we report results for four field vegetable crops from the Nafferton Factorial Systems Comparison (NFSC) trial. This long-term factorial field experiment was designed to (i) identify effects of growing season/climatic variation, and contrasting rotational designs, crop protection protocols and fertilization regimes used in organic and conventional systems on crop health, yield and nutritional parameters and (ii) estimate the relative importance of climatic and agronomic drivers for crop health, yield and nutritionally relevant quality parameters. Quality parameters monitored in harvested products, included phenolic, glucosinolate, vitamin C, vitamin B9, carotenoid, cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and glycoalkaloid concentrations. Results: Climatic conditions during the growing season were found to have a larger impact on crop yield and quality than the agronomic factors (pre-crop, crop protection, fertilization) studied. However, the (i) interactions between growing season with contrasting climatic conditions and agronomic factors identified by ANOVA for crop health, yield and quality parameters and (ii) the associations between the three climatic drivers (precipitation, temperature, radiation) and crop yield and quality parameters differed substantially between the four crop plant species. Among the agronomic factors, fertilization had a substantially larger impact compared with both pre-crop and crop protection. Specifically, crop yields were found to be significantly increased by the use of (i) conventional fertilization and crop protection methods in potato, (ii) conventional fertilization, but organic crop protection methods in cabbage, and (iii) conventional fertilization regimes in lettuce, while none of the agronomic factors had a significant effect on onion yields. When important crop pest and diseases were assessed, (i) conventional crop protection resulted in significantly lower late blight severity in potato, while (ii) organic crop protection resulted in lower bird damage and cabbage root fly (CRF) incidence in cabbages, and Sclerotinia incidence in lettuce and (iii) organic fertilization resulted in lower CRF and Sclerotinia incidence in cabbage and lettuce respectively. When concentrations of nutritionally relevant phytochemicals were compared, organic fertilization resulted in significantly higher phenolic concentrations in potato, cabbage and lettuce, higher glucosinolate and carotenoid concentrations in cabbage, higher vitamin C concentrations in potato and cabbage and higher vitamin B9 concentrations in potato and lettuce—but lower concentrations of toxic glycoalkaloids in potato. Significant effects of crop protection protocols on phytochemical concentrations were only detected in cabbage with conventional crop protection resulting in higher glucosinolate and vitamin B9 concentrations. When toxic metal concentrations were compared, organic fertilization resulted in significantly lower Cd concentrations in all four crops and lower Ni concentrations in potato, cabbage and onion. Significant effects of crop protection were only detected in cabbage, where organic crop protection resulted in lower Ni concentrations. Pb concentrations were not affected by any of the agronomic factors. The potential implications of results for improving (i) strategies to reduce the use of non-renewable resources and environmental impacts of vegetable production and (ii) the productivity of organic and other low-input vegetable production systems without compromising food quality are discussed. Conclusions: The study confirms that organic vegetable production protocols result in higher concentrations of phenolics and other nutritionally desirable phytochemicals, but lower concentrations of the toxic metals Cd and Ni in harvested products. It also demonstrates, for the first time, that this is primarily due to differences in fertilization regimes. The finding that in three of the four crops (cabbage, lettuce and onion) the application of synthetic chemical crop protection products had no measurable positive impact on crop health and yield should be considered in the context of the growing concern about health impacts of pesticide use in field vegetable crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, gangue Coal biochar GCC was developed to absorb heavy metals from an aqueous solution. There is currently insufficient information on the identification of the best biochar modifiers for the purpose of removing heavy metals as well as changes in physicochemical and morphological compositions after modification. For this purpose, after physical treatment GCC ware modified with 5 different offending chemical methods (GCCacidic), (GCCalkaline), (GCCoxidic), (GCCMnOx), and (GCCFeOx). using (XRF), (FT-IR), (XRD), (SEM-EDX), and (BET) assortment. Adsorption tests of 3 heavy metals (Cu, Pb, and Cd) ions under different conditions, ion concentration, pH, Adsorbent dosage, and contact time were investigated in batch experiments. Improved post-modification GCC properties, especially (GCCalkaline) and (GCCMnOx) Significant changes in its surface area as well as functional groups (hydroxyl group, and Manganese oxide group). To will know adsorption capacity of every modified GCC, experimental data were placed in Langmuir and Freundlich's isotherms models. The GCC process follows pseudo-second-order and pseudo-first-order kinetic curves with linear regression. GCC modified with Manganese oxide shows it has the best adsorbent for adsorption of Pb and GCC modified with alkaline is the best adsorbent for adsorption of Cd and Cu metals. For adsorption of mixed metals solution (Pb, Cd, and Cu) GCCMnOx was more suitable than other GCC and modified GCCs biochars. The results show that GCC modified with an acidic component is the worst attraction for removing heavy metals from an aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Until the outbreak of African swine fever in almost the entire Europe and consequently in the Republic of North Macedonia (2022), the population of wild boars was in increase. The biological characteristics of this species make it suitable to be used as a bioindicator for environmental pollution. The concentrations of cadmium and lead (Cd and Pb) were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometry in the liver of free ranging wild boars. Samples were taken from 608 animals, harvested in a period of 7 years (2016-2022), in 11 hunting locations that cover the whole territory of the Republic of North Macedonia. The mean value of Pb in the liver in all hunting areas was 0.225 mg·kg-1 wet weight with range of 0.154-0.722 mg·kg-1, while mean Cd was 0.366 mg·kg-1 and ranged from 0.177 to 0.464 mg·kg-1. A statistically significant difference in Cd was found between the hunting locations, while Pb differed between hunting years. The mean Cd concentrations were significantly higher in Pelagonisko, Krivorečansko and Ohridsko-Prespansko hunting areas than in those from Pološko hunting area, while the mean Pb values in 2019 and 2020 were significantly higher than the mean value determined in 2021. For Cd, 18.2% of the total number of samples exceeds the maximum allowed limit provided in the legislation, while for Pb it was 6.7%. The maximum mean value for Pb (0.336 mg·kg-1) was measured in 2020 and for Cd (0.449 mg·kg-1) in 2016. The mean values for Pb and Cd obtained in this study were in line with data reported for wild boar from other European countries.

In forensic toxicology, precise determination of toxic trace metals in biological samples is critical. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES), which has a low limit of detection, high sensitivity, accurate testing, and high analytical efficiency, is one of the most widely used techniques for determining the level of toxic trace metals in biological samples. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of ICP-OES in estimating cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in whole blood samples when viewed axially, dual, and radially. All the samples that were analyzed were digested in 1.5 ml HNO3 and 2 ml H2O2. Selectivity, linearity, recovery, limits of detection (LOD), and quantification (LOQ) were used to validate the system. Cd-axial and radial recovery values were between 82–96 and 84–97%, while Pb-axial and radial recovery values were between 85–94 and 83–99%. Dual Cd-axial and radial recovery values were between 80–92 and 82–94%, while dual Pb-axial and radial recovery values were between 77–92 and 75–96%. The results demonstrated that the axillary and radially view is preferable to the dual view when using separate axially and radially view inductively coupled plasmas (ICP). In axillary and radially views, Cd's recovery rates were better than Pb's in the separate mode, but overall they were satisfactory. The recovery values for Cd and Pb in the dual view were acceptable but not sufficient.

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Phytomanagement is a concept fit for a bio-based circular economy that combines phytotechnologies and biomass production for non-food purposes. Here, ten annual and perennial industrial non-food crops (Sorghum Biomass 133, Sorghum Santa Fe red, Linum usitatissimum L., Eucalyptus sp., Salix Inger, Salix Tordis, Beta vulgaris L., Phacelia tanacetifolia Benth., Malva sylvestris L., and Chenopodium album L.) were studied under field conditions for phytomanaging a metal (Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn)-contaminated dredged sediment in the North of France. The crops were selected according to their relevance to pedoclimatic and future climatic conditions, and one or more non-food end-products were proposed for each plant part collected, such as biogas, bioethanol, compost, natural dye, ecocatalyst, and fiber. Based on the soil–plant transfer of metals, eight out of the crops cultivated on field plots exhibited an excluder behavior (bioconcentration factor, BCF < 1), a trait suitable for phytostabilization. However, these crops did not change the metal mobilities in the dredged sediment. The BCF < 1 was not sufficient to characterize the excluder behavior of crops as this factor depended on the total dredged-sediment contaminant. Therefore, a BCF group ranking method was proposed accounting for metal phytotoxicity levels or yield decrease as a complemental way to discuss the crop behavior. The feasibility of the biomass-processing chains was discussed based on these results and according to a survey of available legislation in standard and scientific literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several studies suggested that plasma-activated water (PAW) increases crop yields and confronts drought. This study determined the total phenolic (TP) and total flavonoid (TF) contents of water spinach to elucidate whether PAW induced changes in the antioxidant potential of water spinach planted in soil with and without metal contaminants. PAW was selected as the irrigation water for pot experiments. Results showed that PAW increased the TP of water spinach planted in soil without any contaminants and, to some extent, in Cd-added soils but decreased the TP of those planted in Pb-added soil. PAW significantly enhanced the TF of water spinach planted in Cd-added cultivation soil, but not for Pb-added cultivation soil. Meanwhile, PAW can elevate the TF of water spinach by adding fertilizer and sunlight exposure. This study demonstrated that PAW application could increase TF, powerful antioxidants of water spinach planted with fertilizer and sunlight, in the cultivation soil with Cd, or without any contaminant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semarang Bay is a multiple water source from some rivers located at the forefront of the most populated city in Central Java. These waters are polluted by wastes from various sources. Previous studies conducted were limited to specific areas and were mainly focused on one or two media only. This research aims to analyse the heavy metal Cd and Pb concentrations in seawater, sediments, and green mussels and the ecological risks. Field data were collected from 18 sites from three locations: Semarang, Demak and Kendal during the dry season of 2020. Environmental variables were measured in situ, and the heavy metals concentrations were analysed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The concentrations of Cd and Pb in the waters of Semarang Bay vary spatially and are above the standard threshold values set by the government. The highest concentration of Cd is found in the sediment and of Pb in the seawater. Despite the exceeding concentrations, the environmental conditions in Semarang Bay are still relatively good based on the low values of contamination indices assessed. This condition, however, can be expected to change when the season changes and needs to be considered by green mussel farmers, coastal managers, and local governments.

The reuse of treated wastewater for irrigation can preserve freshwater resources [...]

A pot study was conducted to investigate the potential of alfalfa for phytoremediation of soil artificially contaminated with different concentrations of Pb and Cd and their combinations. Harvested plants were divided and used for two purposes: (1) separation into roots and shoots, which were digested to determine N, P, K, Pb and Cd concentrations, and (2) the use of fresh shoots to prepare alfalfa extract representing each treatment. Subsequently, lettuce seedlings were grown in the same pots with the same soil and without adding fertilizers; the alfalfa shoot extract prepared from each treatment was added to the treatment itself. Lettuce crops harvested after 67 days from transplanting were divided into roots and shoots which were digested to determine the previously studied elements. In addition, soil samples were collected after harvesting alfalfa and lettuce plants and prepared for chemical analyses. Results showed that alfalfa is an effective accumulator plant for the phytoremediation of Pb- and Cd-contaminated soils. In addition, using the alfalfa shoot extract to fertilize lettuce crops was beneficial to their growth without any risk of translocation of heavy metals. Thus, we recommend adding alfalfa to crop rotations, especially where soils are contaminated with heavy metals.

China is the major producer of chestnut, with 1.84 million tons of chestnut production, resulting in an enormous waste of chestnut shells. In the current study, shell biochar (SBC) was produced using the inside shell covering fruit, and the outside shell with thorns was used to produce thorn biochar (TBC). Both types of biochar were characterised through Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR). These analytical results showed a more obvious smooth surface and micro-pore structure in SBC. The vibration of C=O/C=C and C–O (phenolic) showed a significant difference between the two types of biochar. Sorption experiments indicated that the adsorption capacity of the different types of biochar for cadmium (Cd) did not differ significantly, whereas the adsorption capacity of TBC for lead was better than that of SBC. In the pakchoi cultivation experiment (28 days), the application of TBC (1.5%) promoted plant shoot weight, root weight, shoot length and root length by 465%, 143%, 109% and 97% respectively. The application of biochar effectively increased soil pH and reduced the bioavailability and migration of heavy metals. Besides, membrane integrity and chlorophyll content were enhanced because of the alleviation of oxidative stress. Noticeably, application of TBC (0.1% and 1.5%) reduced the Cd concentration in the root by 40–60%, and enhanced accumulation of Pb by 75–191%. Overall, our study demonstrated that 1.5% TBC has promising potential for remediating Cd-contaminated soil. Our study has demonstrated the remediation potential of chestnut and provided a clue for sustainable management of chestnut shell waste for further development of chestnut resources. China is a major producer of chestnut, with 1.84 million tons of chestnuts produced worldwide, resulting in a massive amount of waste of chestnut shells. In this study, biochar from two types of chestnut shell was produced, characterised and used for remediation of cadmium- and lead-contaminated soil. This research demonstrated that chestnut biochar has potential to repair Cd-contaminated soil and also demonstrated that combining phytoremediation of Pb-contaminated soils with biochar is promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar has received significant attention for its potential in bioremediation of polluted soils. However, the impact of biochar particle size is yet to be investigated. We evaluated the role of various particle sizes (<3, 3–6 and 6–9 mm) of commercially available hardwood Acacia arabica biochar applied at the rate of 10 g kg−1 soil in the immobilisation of heavy metals 12 months after application. Heavy metals cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) were spiked in designated pots from their respective sources CdSO4, Ni(NO3)2 and PbNO3 according to their permissible limits (0.2–2, 8.1 and 10–15 mg kg−1, respectively). Biochar particles of sizes <3, 3–6 and 6–9 mm significantly mitigated contamination of Cd by 35%, 10% and 9%; Pb by 61%, 60% and 35%; and Ni by 64%, 45% and 3.2%. Relative to the control, application of biochar particles of sizes <3, 3–6 and 6–9 mm significantly increased soil porosity by 10.3%, 4.2% and 3%; saturation percentage by 100%, 42% and 27%; pH by 0.53%, 2.6% and 4%; and organic matter by 33.6%, 19.7% and 16.8%. Soil bulk density decreased by 12%, 5% and 2.3%; and electrical conductivity by 19%, 20% and 24%. The contamination factor for Cd was >1 (in the moderate contamination category), whereas Pb and Ni had contamination factors <1 (in the low contamination category), under biochar application. The heavy metal spiking effect was also significant and ranked as Pb > Cd > Ni for soil pH, electrical conductivity and porosity; Cd > Ni > Pb for organic matter; and Ni > Cd > Pb for bulk density and saturation percentage. Smallest sized biochar (<3 mm) maximally stabilised heavy metals in the soil and improved soil physicochemical properties. Therefore, heavy metal polluted soils should be treated with fine (<3 mm) biochar for maximum immobilisation for heavy metals and improvement in soil physicochemical properties. Use of inorganic material is the main cause of soil pollution globally, hindering efforts toward sustainable and safe agriculture. In this regard, heavy metals pollute the soil and endanger food quality, but biochars with very high surface area are effective in absorbing toxic heavy metals. In this study, various sizes of biochar were tested for phyto-stabilisation of heavy metals, and the finest biochar (<3 mm) proved most effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In forensic toxicology, precise determination of toxic trace metals in biological samples is critical. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES), which has a low limit of detection, high sensitivity, accurate testing, and high analytical efficiency, is one of the most widely used techniques for determining the level of toxic trace metals in biological samples. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of ICP-OES in estimating cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in whole blood samples when viewed axially, dual, and radially. All the samples that were analyzed were digested in 1.5 ml HNO3 and 2 ml H2O2. Selectivity, linearity, recovery, limits of detection (LOD), and quantification (LOQ) were used to validate the system. Cd-axial and radial recovery values were between 82–96 and 84–97%, while Pb-axial and radial recovery values were between 85–94 and 83–99%. Dual Cd-axial and radial recovery values were between 80–92 and 82–94%, while dual Pb-axial and radial recovery values were between 77–92 and 75–96%. The results demonstrated that the axillary and radially view is preferable to the dual view when using separate axially and radially view inductively coupled plasmas (ICP). In axillary and radially views, Cd's recovery rates were better than Pb's in the separate mode, but overall they were satisfactory. The recovery values for Cd and Pb in the dual view were acceptable but not sufficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioretention facilities reduce stormwater runoff and pollutants, but there is a concern that plants in bioretention facilities may absorb heavy metal pollutants from stormwater runoff, which might impair the growth of the plant species. To investigate this issue, stormwater runoff containing various amounts of Pb and Cd heavy metals was used as the irrigation water in a bioretention facility. The low concentrations of Pb and Cd were 0.08 and 0.04 mg/L, and the high values were 0.68 and 0.32 mg/L. The plant heavy metal content and physiological indicators were measured. The indicators were chlorophyll content (CC), net photosynthetic rate (NPR), and transpiration rate (TR). The results showed that the changes in plant chlorophyll content (CC) were highly correlated with changes in the plants' Pb. Low concentrations of Pb and Cd slightly inhibited the Ginkgo biloba L. and Ligustrum × vicaryi NPRs, the effect was more obvious at high concentrations and the Ligustrum × vicaryi's NPR decreased from the initial 8.97 μmol CO2/(m2s) to 5.77 μmol CO2/(m2s) under high concentration conditions. Pb and Cd increased the Ginkgo biloba L. and Ligustrum × vicaryi's TRs, and the effect at low Pb and Cd concentrations was more significant. Under low concentrations of Pb and Cd stress, the Ginkgo biloba L.'s TRs reached 0.63 mmol H2O/(m2s), Ligustrum × vicaryi's TRs reached 1.30 mmol H2O/(m2s). The TRs of the two plants in the experimental groups remained high throughout the experiment, and there was no significant inhibition. The study found that Pb and Cd in stormwater runoff did affect the physiological function of species to some extent. Different plant species behaved differently in bioretention facilities, but the stormwater runoff did not lead to the death of species. Our study may provide a better understanding of the development of typical plant species in bioretention facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar performs well in soil remediation for the crop heavy metals uptake reduction. This study used biochar and graphene-modified biochar to remedy soil and assessed their impact on peanut plant Cd and Pb uptake. Results showed that both biochar additions significantly improved soil conditions and plant growth, and the improvement increased with the addition level increasing. Compared with the control, biochar and modified biochar induced plant biomass to increase by 2.43%- 16.5% and 10.3%-27.1% in neutral soil, and plant height by 12.8%-22.8% and 22.2%-32.9%, respectively. The plant Cd and Pb contents in the aerial part were reduced by 11.5%-55.5% and 15.4%-24.8% due to biochar additions 21.5%- 71.7%, and by and 25.4%-36.4% due to modified biochar additions. The underground plant Cd and Pb contents were reduced by 15.9%-49.4% and 28.1%- 46.4% due to biochar additions, and by 25.1%- 60.1% and 38.3%-52.4% due to modified biochar additions. Biochar and modified biochar significantly decreased aerial (underground) plant Cd accumulations by 9.02%-48.2% (10.1%-35.0%) and 14.3%-64.1% (20.3%-34.3%), respectively, while aerial (underground) plant Pb accumulations by 10.3%-13.1% (23.1%-34.9%) and 10.7%-19.6% (27.7%-41.6%), respectively. These results provide a in-situ soil remediation technology for the crop heavy metal uptake reduction with economical, environmentally friendly, and highly efficient advantages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal pollution in water can cause severe environmental problems, harm the ecosystem, and ultimately threaten human health. The traditional methods used to remove heavy metals from water are expensive, inefficient, and can cause secondary pollution. However, microalgae have potential applications in the removal of toxic heavy metal pollutants from water. In this study, six green algae were screened in terms of their ability to adsorb cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) from a liquid medium. Ion content analyses confirmed that Scenedesmus acuminatus had the strongest Cd- and Pb-absorption ability. S. acuminatus was subjected to Cd and Pb treatments, and then transcriptome sequencing analysis was conducted. The results of Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses indicated that the "proteasome" pathway was enriched with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under Cd treatment, and the "photosynthesis" pathway was enriched with DEGs under Pb treatment. These results imply that the proteasome pathway maintained protein homeostasis and cellular activity by degrading damaged proteins under Cd toxicity, and that photosynthesis was affected by Pb toxicity in S. acuminatus. In conclusion, S. acuminatus showed a strong ability to accumulate Cd/Pb and might alleviate heavy metal toxicity and reduce heavy metal efflux using the ubiquitin-proteasome system. The results of this study identify a novel microalgal strain with potential applications in phytoextraction and phytoremediation, and provide information about the molecular mechanisms of Cd/Pb accumulation in this alga. These data provide a theoretical basis for reducing Cd/Pb toxicity and will be useful for devising strategies to protect aquatic animals and plants. [Display omitted] • Scenedesmus acuminatus had stronger Cd- and Pb-absorption ability. • The "proteasome" pathway was involved with the Cd detoxification in S. acuminatus. • Gene encoding proteasome subunits had up-regulated expression under Cd/Pb treatments. • S. acuminatus may be identified as a novel phycoremediator for protecting aquatic organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Petroleum hydrocarbon pollution in the soil is one of the important problems in environmental studies. Thus, this research was conducted to evaluate the effect of iron slag, zeolite, and Piriformospora indica fungus on mazut biodegradation in a heavy metal-polluted soil that was amended with cow manure under canola cultivation. Materials and Methods: Treatments included application of zeolite (0% and 2% [W/W]) and iron slag enriched cow manure (0, 15, and 30 t/ha) in a mazut-polluted soil (0%, 4%, and 8% [W/W]) under canola cultivation in the presence of P. indica. After 70 days, plants were harvested and the mazut biodegradation in the soil was measured. In addition, the soil and plant Pb and Cd concentration was measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Findings: Soil application of zeolite (2% [W/W]) in the mazut-polluted soil (4% [W/W]) significantly increased the mazut biodegradation in the soil by 13.1%. In addition, plant inoculation with P. indica significantly increased the mazut biodegradation in the soil and decreased the plant Pb and Cd concentration. Soil application of cow manure at the rate of 15 and 30 t/ha has also increased the mazut biodegradation in the soil by 14.1% and 17.4%, respectively. Conclusion: Using iron slag enriched cow manure and zeolite had additive effects of increasing the mazut biodegradation in the soil and decreasing the soil and plant heavy metal concentration. However, these changes depend on the plant physiology and soil physic-chemical properties that should be considered in different studies.

Agricultural soil pollution has attracted the attention of scientists and agricultural managers because of its importance to food security worldwide. In Syria, limited studies have been conducted to determine heavy metals (HMs) concentrations in arable lands. The objective of this study was to investigate the concentration of HMs in the southern part of Syria, and to identify the potential sources HMs. To achieve the study goals, 38 soil samples (0–25 cm) were collected and analysed for physical and chemical soil properties, while the DTPA (Diethylenetriamine pentaacetate) method was to extract HMs from soil.The results of this study showed that the average concentration of HMs in the study area are 2.00; 12.70; 8.56; 4.37; 0.12; and 0.12 ppm for Cu; Fe; Mn; Zn; Cd; and Pb, respectively. A multivariate statistical analysis showed that Cu, Fe, and Mn originated from parent material (natural resources), while Zn and Cd were related to agricultural activities (anthropogenic one) and Pb was relatively related to industrial activities. Interestingly, the spatial distribution indicates that Cu, Fe, and Mn distributed in the southern and eastern part of the study area, while Pb and Zn were dominant in the western and northern part. In addition, Cd was observed in the central part of the study area. We conclude that human activities are the main contributor of HMs accumulation in soil. The distribution of these HMs could affect the safety of agricultural product in the future.