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Background: Long-term success of implant restoration depends on many factors one of them is the sufficient implant stability which is lowered in compromised bone density sites such as the maxilla as it is categorized as type III & IV bone, so searching for a new innovation and updates in implant material and features is very mandatory. So, the aim of this study was to compare between two implant materials (roxolid and traditional titanium) on the primary and secondary stability of implant retained maxillary overdenture. Methods: Eighteen completely edentulous patients were selected. All patients received maxillary implant-retained overdentures and lower complete dentures; patients were divided equally into two groups according to the type of implant materials. Group A received a total number of 36 implants made of roxolid material and Group B received a total number of 36 implants made of traditional titanium alloys. Implant stability was assessed using ostell device, the primary implant stability was measured at the day of implant installation however, secondary implant stability was measured after six weeks of implant placement. Paired t-test was used to compare between primary and secondary stability in the same group and an independent t-test was used to compare between the two groups with a significant level < 0.05. Results: Independent t-test revealed a significant difference between the two groups with p -value = 0.0141 regarding primary stability and p-value < 0.001 regarding secondary stability, as roxolid implant group was statistically higher stability than titanium group in both. Paired t- test showed a statistically significant difference in roxolid implant group with p-value = 0.0122 however, there was non-statistically significant difference in titanium group with p-value = 0.636. Mann Whitney test showed a significant difference between the two groups regarding amount of change in stability with p value = 0.191. roxolid implant group showed a higher amount of change in stability than the titanium implant group. Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, it could be concluded that: Roxolid implants showed promising results regarding primary and secondary stability compared to conventional Titanium implants and can be a better alternative in implant retained maxillary overdentures. Trial registration: Retrospectively NCT06334770 at 26–3-2024. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Irrigation with low-quality water without considering the acceptable levels negatively impacts not only humans, but also extends to the whole surrounding ecosystem. The current research is a comprehensive-integrated appraisal of the irrigation water quality gathered from El-Batts drain in Fayoum Governorate, from September 2021 to June 2022, together with the drain sediments and the soils adjacent to it. The characteristics (physical, chemical and biological), and the risk fate of some heavy metals (As, B, Cr, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Ni, Fe and Mn) were measured. Moreover, the risks of the studied pollutants were assessed using many indices: irrigation water quality index (IWQI), contamination factor (Cf), degree of contamination (Cd), Salinity indices and Zn equivalent (ZE). Additionally, kinetic studies of the inorganic pollutants were evaluated to determine their availability and impact on the surrounding environment. Results: Data from IQWI showed that water in all five sites was assumed to be very bad and unsuitable for usage with a general average (14.62 and 25.35) in all four seasons. ZE exceeds the critical level of 250, which means there is a risk of soil contamination. Conclusions: The elevated levels of heavy metals, microbial enzymes, pathogenic fecal coliform and Salmonella reflect bad and direct risk of dealing with such water in irrigation and its effect on the soil ecosystem and the growing crops. Most of the tested parameters exceeded the acceptable levels of the Egyptian Governmental Law Guidelines, WHO and FAO, which may threaten aquatic life. Best managements practices and remediation techniques should be applied to minimize the hazards in such waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health risks (non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk) were calculated in both adults and children, using target hazard quotient (THQ) and carcinogenic risk (CR). The concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Ni were higher than the standard limits but they did not pose any non-carcinogenic health risks in adult and children's consumers (THQ <1). Meanwhile, the risk assessment of iAs indicates THQ > 1 for children in Egypt. Moreover, the THQ value due to Me Hg for adult in Tunisia and for children in Tunisia, Malta, Portugal, Latvia, Cambogia, Peru, South Korea, Romania, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, Morocco, and Egypt was higher than 1 value. In addition, the calculated CR values of iAs for the adults and children were within the threshold risk of developing cancer (Between 1.00E–4 to 1.00E–6). Therefore, it is recommended to continuously monitor the concentration of PTEs in canned tuna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) is a well-accepted technique that has the ability to simultaneously determining 30–40 elements. INAA is also capable of determining major, minor, and trace elements as well as rare earth elements. It was utilised to determine the concentration of heavy elements and elemental contents of coral reef samples collected from three locations on the Red Sea coast of Egypt. The coral reef samples were prepared with their standard materials and together irradiated in Egypt Second Research Reactor (ETRR-2). For short and long irradiations, samples were separately irradiated at a convenient thermal neutron flux 4 × 1011cm−2s−1 for 2 min in a pneumatic rabbit system and samples were irradiated at a thermal neutron flux 1.5x1014cm−2s−1 for 32 mins, respectively. All samples were counted two times in a HPGe detector with a relative efficiency of 100% for short and long irradiations. The following elements have been determined Al, Ti, Na, K, Mg, V, Cl, Ca, Mn, Cr, As, Co, Zn, Ni, Fe, Br, Tb, Zr, Hf, Sb, Ba, Sc, Nd, La, Sm, Ce, Eu, Yb, Ta, U, and Th. In the Quseir harbour, the maximum concentration of Al, Fe, Mn Zn, U, and Th were 3487 ± 74, 2007 ± 22, 33 ± 0.5, 119 ± 0.5, 4 ± 0.3, and 0.52 ± 0.04 mg/kg, respectively. These concentrations were higher for these elements compared to other areas. The present work is concerned to achieve precise information about the elemental content in coral reef samples along the Red Sea coast in specific locations and the effect of detected concentrations on the surrounding environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of elevated levels of heavy metals in soil poses a significant environmental concern with implications for human health and other organisms. The main objective of our study was to reduce the gap information of seasonal abundance, distribution of heavy metals in soil, leaf litter, and some macroinvertebrates in a citrus orchard (Citrus sinensis) in Sohag Governorate, Egypt. The heavy metals copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry. Degree of contamination (DC) was determined for both soil and leaf litter contamination. However, the bioaccumulation factor (BAF) was estimated to determine metal accumulation in the macroinvertebrates including earwigs Anisolabis maritima, chilopoda Scolopendra moristans, spider Dysdera crocata, and earthworm Aporrectodea caliginosa. The study area had clay-loam with varying organic matter, salinity, and pH levels. The degree of contamination varied among seasons, with the highest levels typically observed in autumn in both soil and leaf litter. The soil ranged from low contamination (1.82) to high contamination levels (4.4), while the leaf litter showed extremely high (30.03) to ultra-high (85.92) contamination levels. The mean ecological risk index results indicated that the sampling area had moderate ecological risk levels for Cd (44.3), Zn (42.17), and Pb (80.05), and extremely high levels for Cu (342.5). Heavy metal concentrations in the selected fauna were the highest in autumn, and the bioaccumulation factor varied among species and seasons with some species classified as e-concentrators, micro-concentrators, and macro-concentrators of certain heavy metals. Scolopendra moristans exhibited the highest mean metal concentrations (Cd, Pb, and Zn), while Aporrectodea caliginosa had the lowest. Thus, the differences in heavy metal concentrations found in different soil taxa highlight the significance of taxing a holistic understanding of feeding mechanisms into account when evaluating the potential risk for animals that consume invertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Burullus lagoon is part of Egypt's protected area network. The lagoon serves as a reservoir for drainage water discharged from agricultural areas, and the lake's sediments provide a unique opportunity to record environmental behavior and reconstruct of the heavy metal contamination history. In the present study, the sediment chronology, sedimentation rates, and metal accumulation fluxes were estimated in four sediment cores using 210Pb dating models to evaluate how human activities have affected the coastal environment. Using the radioisotopes 210Pb and 137Cs, radiometric dating was carried out using gamma-ray spectrometry. At the Egypt Second Research Reactor (ETRR-2), the element concentrations were determined using the instrumented neutron activation analysis (INAA- k0 method). Our findings show that the constant rate of supply (CRS), which has been verified with the peak of artificial radionuclide 137Cs, is the best model performed for the chronology of Burullus Lagoon. The average sedimentation rate, according to 210Pb dating models, is 0.85 cm/year. The large variation in sedimentation rates, especially after the 1990s, is consistent with an increase in the anthropogenic flux of heavy metals. This may be led into a significant environmental problem such as reducing the size of the lake and degrading the quality the water in Burullus Lagoon. Enrichment factor (EF) of the studied elements displayed the following order: Cl > Ca > Na > Br > Zn > Ta > Ti > V > Cr > Sc > Mg > Mn > Fe > Hf which is higher than unity. Furthermore, the Nemerow pollution index (PI Nemerow) revealed that pollution was increasing in the direction of the drains and slightly polluted. Consequently, pollutant indices showed that urbanization and industrial development may have increased the depositional fluxes of the metals in sediments over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Expanding anthropogenic activities, globally and in Egypt, have increased concentrations of heavy metals in surface and ground waters. Contamination of drinking water may threaten public health. In the present study, the concentrations of 10 heavy metals were analyzed from natural springs (6) and drilled wells (10) in the Nubian Sandstone Aquifer of the El-Farafra Oasis and the White Desert National Park, Egypt. The average concentrations of heavy metals were in most cases below critical values of the WHO drinking water standard, except for Fe and Mn (average values were 495 and 107 µg·L−1, respectively). There is a surface circulation that develops within limestone (Post-Nubian Aquifer System—PNAS) and feeds the springs, while the water present in the wells (at least for the deeper ones) comes from the ferruginous sandstone (Nubian Sandstone Aquifer System—NSAS). This double circulation could account for the differences in the EC and TDS values (typical of a circulation in limestone-type aquifers for springs) and the Fe and Mn enrichment coming from the ferruginous sandstone of the NSAS. The average chronic daily intake (CDI) values for heavy metals in the study area are listed in decreasing order in the following: Fe > Mn > Zn > Co > Ni > Cr > As > Pb > Co > Cd. The total hazard quotient (HQtotal = HQoral + HQdermal) and Hazard Index (HI) values calculated for different heavy metals were well below the acceptable limit, indicating no significant non-carcinogenic health risks to the residents of both areas via oral and dermal absorption of drinking water. Furthermore, the results obtained for the total risk to human health showed that oral ingestion is the major pathway. Carcinogenic risk analysis indicated that the Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) values for Pb, Cd, Ni, and Cr were well below the acceptable limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Qaroun, one of Egypt’s largest lakes, is a remnant of a much larger one; it is considered as a closed basin used as a general reservoir for agricultural wastewater drainage in El-Fayoum Province. Furthermore, the lake receives agricultural and partially treated sewage water from the El-Fayoum Governorate as well as fish farm drainage. The current study assessed the changes in physicochemical characteristics and heavy metal levels (Zn, Pb, Cd, and Cu) in water and sediment, as well as the bioaccumulation of these heavy metals in Mugilcephalus fish samples obtained from Lake Qaroun. Thus, information on histopathological changes in the gills, liver, kidney, end of the alimentary canal, and muscles was provided. This research was conducted in three different locations along Lake Qaroun (Eastern, southeastern, and western). This study confirms an increased heavy metal pollution in the eastern and southeastern sectors of Lake Qaroun, facing the drain outlet, as a result of the discharge of drainage water effluents without prior treatment, which directly affects water quality and fish health, and subsequently human health. The concentrations of Pb and Cd in the water exceeded the allowable limits. The gills are the target organ for Cd in Mugil cephalus, but Pb and Zn are preferentially collected in the kidneys, with the liver containing the highest concentrations of Cu ions. Histopathological changes with an evident damage were visible in the gills, liver, and kidneys of Mugil cephalus taken from the lake’s eastern and southeastern areas. In addition, blood parameters of Mugil cephalus collected from various study sites throughout Lake Qaroun were included in this study. A highly significant decrease was detected in red blood cell counts, hemoglobin content, and hematocrit values of fish collected from the lake's eastern and southeastern parts in comparison to fish collected from the western sector, indicating more or less normal values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water, as an indispensable constituent of life, serves as the primary source of sustenance for all living things on Earth. The contamination of surface water with heavy metals poses a significant global health risk to humans, animals, and plants. Sharkiya Governorate, situated in the East Nile Delta region of Egypt, is particularly susceptible to surface water pollution due to various industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. The Bahr Mouse Stream, crucial for providing potable water and supporting irrigation activities in Sharkiya Governorate, caters to a population of approximately 7.7 million inhabitants. Unfortunately, this vital water source is exposed to many illegal encroachments that may cause pollution and deteriorate the water resource quality. In a comprehensive study conducted over two consecutive seasons (2019–2020), a total of 38 surface water samples were taken to assess the quantity of heavy metals in surface water destined for human consumption and other applications, supported by indices and statistics. The assessment utilized flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine the concentration of key heavy metals including iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr). The calculated mean value of the Water Quality Index (WQI) was found to be 39.1 during the winter season and 28.05 during the summer season. This value suggests that the surface water maintains good quality and is suitable for drinking purposes. Furthermore, the analysis indicated that the concentrations of heavy metals in the study area were below the recommended limits set by the World Health Organization and fell within the safe threshold prescribed by Egyptian legislation. Despite the identification of localized instances of illegal activities in certain areas, such as unauthorized discharges, the findings affirm that the Bahr Mouse stream is devoid of heavy metal pollution. This underscores the importance of continued vigilance and regulatory enforcement to preserve the integrity of these vital water resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The River Nile is the artery of Egypt, as it presents more than 96% of the municipal, industrial, and irrigation necessities of Egypt. This study was dedicated to providing data about the effect of pollution at six stations on the River Nile at the Rosetta branch during the period from August 2019 to April 2020, using heavy metals analysis and zooplankton as biological indicators. It was found that the average of heavy metals concentration follows the descending order Al > Fe > Mn > Zn > Ni > Co. Most of the heavy metals recorded its highest values at El-Rahawy station. Zooplankton community was represented by 32 species in addition to 4 Meroplanktons. Five groups of zooplankton were recorded, viz. Rotifera (1717 org./L), Protozoa (552 org./L), Cladocera (54 org./L), Nematoda (46 org./L), and other Meroplankton (44 org./L), dominated by Rotifera followed by Protozoa, Cladocera, Nematoda, and other Meroplanktons contributing 71%, 23%, 2%, 2%, and 2%, respectively. The highest average density of total zooplankton was recorded during spring while the lowest was recorded during summer. The highest similarity of (79.12%) was observed between (Site 1) and (Site 5). Almost all diversity indices were conducted and showed its highest values in site 6. The principal component analysis conducted between heavy metals, and zooplankton showed a significant negative correlation was shown for the dominant zooplankton with the heavy metals except with cobalt. Nematoda and the rotifer Brachionus angularis recorded a positive correlation with heavy metals except cobalt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Levels of some heavy metal ions were determined in water samples of marine mussels Brachidontes pharaonis collected from the shoreline of the National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), the Gulf of Suez, Egypt, during the period from June 2019 to May 2020. The objective of the present study was to analyze the seasonal concentrations of some heavy metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Pb, Mn, and Cd) that have environmental and health interests in the Gulf of Suez using the bivalve Brachidontes pharaonis (Fischer, 1876) as a biological monitor. The samples were collected seasonally from the site and divided into three size groups. The analyses for the detection of the selected metal concentrations were carried out by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that the mean concentrations of heavy metals in water were 0.07, 0.64, 0.71, 4.66, 0.26, 0.08, 12.40, 0.07µg/L for Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, Co, Fe, and Mn, respectively. With regards to assessed metals in the soft tissues, an inverse relationship was found between metal concentration and bivalve size. According to the collected data, the present study area was varied between low to moderate contamination. This change occurred in conjunction with the increase of industrial activities around the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Nasser is a freshwater lake that supplies over 95% of Egypt's freshwater budget. Therefore, the quality of water in the lake is critical for its conservation. In addition to assessing the metal pollution load, the quality of water and sediment in the lake was assessed by collecting water and sediment samples for metal content analysis. Lake Nasser is a warm monomictic water body with a single circulation cycle in the cold months. Dissolved oxygen content in bottom water samples often dropped significantly to levels below international guidelines, reflecting reduced rates of photosynthetic activity. Although 50% of the lake's water samples contained Pb concentrations slightly above the World Health Organization's (WHO) limit for drinking water, the metal pollution index did not exceed the critical level and was classified as low metal water pollution. Based on the geoaccumulation index (I-geo), the enrichment factor (EF) and the pollution load index, the sediments of Lake Nasser are practically uncontaminated with metals. Ni has the highest EF and I-geo values, while Ni and Cd contributed the most to the ecological risk and toxic risk index. The obtained results revealed that Cd and Ni in the sediments may pose a threat to organisms living in Lake Nasser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollutants in an environment can have long-term implications for the species living there, resulting in local adaptations with implications for their genetic structure. Heavy metal pollutants infiltrate soils and groundwater, bioaccumulate in food webs, and negatively impact biota. In this study, we investigated the degree to which the genetic structure and variability of the slender green-winged grasshopper (Aiolopus thalassinus (Fabricius) (Orthoptera: Acrididae)) were impacted by heavy metal pollution and distance. We used the random amplified polymorphic DNA-polymerase chain reaction (RAPD-PCR) method to examine the genetic variability of populations in 3 heavy metal-polluted and 3 unpolluted locations across varying geographical distances in Egypt. The heavy metal concentrations of cadmium, copper, lead, and zinc were measured from the grasshopper tissue and soils. Sixty-nine unique and polymorphic bands were produced by 4 primers. Cluster and principal component analyses separated the populations inside and outside Cairo into 2 main branches, which were further divided into smaller branches corresponding to their geographical regions. We found no differences in the Shannon genetic diversity index between populations or with increasing heavy metal concentrations in either the soil or the grasshopper tissue. Our results showed a greater genetic variation among populations than between populations within the same location, indicating populations within locations were less differentiated than those between locations. The moderate correlation between genetic similarity and spatial distance suggests geographical isolation influenced grasshopper population differentiation. Based on the RAPD analysis, environmental pollutants and geographical distances impact the A. thalassinus population structure, potentially restricting gene flow between sites even at small spatial scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are toxic residues that exert harmful effects because of their accumulation in the biological tissues. This study aimed to investigate the fitness of chicken breast meat, gizzard and liver for the human consumption in relation to their heavy metal residues. In addition, biodegradable effect of Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the heavy metals concentrations in chicken fillet samples was assessed. Lead, cadmium and arsenic concentrations were investigated in a total of ninety random samples of raw chilled chicken meat, gizzard and liver (30 of each), which were collected from poultry slaughter shops in Benha city, Qalubiya governorate, Egypt by the atomic absorption technique. Furthermore, in vivo degradable effect of L. rhamnosus on heavy metal residues in chicken fillet was investigated during refrigeration storage. Liver samples had significant higher levels of heavy metals than gizzard and meat, with the incidences of 56.7%, 46.7% and 16.7% for lead, cadmium and arsenic, respectively. Moreover, 28.9%, 24.4% and 28.9% of the examined samples were unfit for human consumption based on their heavy metal contents, and in accordance with the respective Egyptian standards. In addition, L. rhamnosus had a significant reduction effect on arsenic, cadmium and lead with the reduction (%) of 56, 71.5 and 82.6% at the end of the experiment, respectively. Accordingly, regular investigation of heavy metals levels in commercial meat products and their feed stuffs is recommended. Furthermore, L. rhamnosus showed promising diminishing effect on heavy metal accumulation in meat products, where advanced research on its effect on the environment is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concerns about potential health risks have made heavy metal contamination in food a prominent issue. The primary route of human exposure to metals is through food consumption. Hence, the objective of this study was to assess metal concentrations in game bird meat and calculate daily intake and associated health risks. An ICP-OES was employed to measure the levels of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), magnesium (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), and iron (Fe). The study's results indicated that As, Zn, and Fe were present at relatively high levels in the studied groups, while Co, Hg, Cr, and Cd had comparatively lower mean concentrations. Among the detected heavy metals, there were no statistically significant differences between the three studied groups, except for Cr, Co, and Zn, which exhibited statistically significant variations. Most quails and pigeons stayed within the designated permissible limits (PL) for Hg, while sparrows exceeded these limits. Both quails and sparrows also exceeded the PL for Pb, whereas pigeons remained within it. In the case of Zn, Cu, and Co, the majority of the three species adhered to the PL, while they exceeded the PL for As. However, all three species remained within the PL for Cd and Cr. Despite the Hazard Quotients (HQs) for the tested heavy metals, with the exception of As, Fe, and Zn, not exceeding 1, this suggests that consuming game bird meat is unlikely to significantly elevate the risk of human exposure to these specific metals, indicating a lower potential health hazard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Globally, the environmental contamination of stream sediments due to geogenic and anthropogenic sources is of growing concern. In this study, the heavy metals (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in 22 superficial sediments in Wadi Asal, Red Sea, Egypt, were explored to assess sediment sources, the mobility of chemical species, and the degree of contamination in sediments. Therefore, the total heavy metal values in the fine fraction (< 63 μm), a five-step sequential extraction on selective samples, risk assessment, and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied. The mobility of heavy metals in Wadi Asal sediments, according to non-residual fraction percent, declines in the following order: Cd (90.9%) > Pb (85.2%) > Co (84.4%) > Cu (80.8%) > Zn (75.9%) > Ni (48.4%) > Cr (39.6%); indicating the high mobility of Cd, Zn, Pb, Cu, and Co. The mean metal contamination factor (CF) order is Cd (10.96) > Ni (3.91) > Cr (2.77) > Zn (2.18) > Pb (2.10) > Co (1.12) > Cu (0.70). The Geo-accumulation Index (Igeo) is decreased in the following order: Cd (2.19) > Ni (0.78) > Cr (0.55) > Zn (0.44) > Pb (0.42) > Co (0.22) > Cu (0.14). The risk assessment code (RAC) revealed very high to high risk for Cd, Co, and Pb. The results pointed out that the metals Cr, Co, Cu, and Ni are from geogenic sources, while Zn, Cd, and Pb are from anthropogenic sources due to Pb–Zn mining activities. Based on the threshold effect level (TEL), Cd, Cr, Ni, and Pb have adverse effects on living organisms. According to these findings, the area along Wadi Asal and the downstream regions on the beach are highly polluted and heavy metal monitoring in sediments and aquatic organisms is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the compositional analysis of various types of environmental pollution, selecting the appropriate instrumentation is essential. This involves ensuring that the chosen method is suitable for the intended purpose and that the results are valid. In this study, an analytical method using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry was developed and validated for the simultaneous determination of eight heavy metals (Cr, Cd, Pb, Co, As, Cu, U, and Th) in groundwater. The validation of the method was based on several parameters of the International Conference on Harmonization, including linearity, accuracy, precision, and sensitivity, expressed by the limit of detection and quantification. The linearity of the method was acceptable over the selected concentration range, with a correlation coefficient of > 0.999. The detection limit for each heavy metal (Cr, Cd, Pb, Co, As, Cu, U, and Th) was determined to be 0.180, 1.718, 1.201, 0.142, 7.030, 2.632, 0.205, and 2.201 μg/L (ppb), respectively. The developed method is non-destructive, simple, accurate, precise, and selective for determining eight heavy metals in groundwater. It can be used to determine these metals in real liquid samples, such as ground, surface, wastewater, aqueous extracts from plants, digested soil, and rock samples. All analyzed groundwater samples showed concentrations of heavy metals within predetermined limits, except for some samples that showed slightly higher values. The primary source of heavy metal leaching in groundwater is enclosed soil materials derived from the surrounding granite rocks and mining activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Canned fish products are widely consumed in Egypt, particularly for protein-rich meals that are quick to prepare and low in calories. Canned fish products are contaminated with toxic metals from the fish itself or from canning materials during processing. Aim: To determine the residual levels of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), aluminum (Al), and Tin (Sn) in some canned fish products obtained from retail shops in Mansoura, Egypt. Furthermore, noncarcinogenic health risks evaluation for the Egyptian population due to hazardous metal oral intake. Methods: One hundred canned fish products (20 each of herring, mackerel, salmon, sardine, and tuna) were collected from May to September 2023, and canned fish products were obtained from Mansoura city markets in Egypt. Samples were digested in a solution composed of 60% nitric acid and 40% perchloric acid, and then an atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for the detection of selected toxic metals. Results: It was found that the residual level of hazardous metals exceeded the acceptability level established in the European Union for Pb, Cd, and Hg by 20%, 10%, and 10%, 15%, 5%, and 20%, 35%, 30%, and 45%, 25%, 25%, and 40%, in examined herring, mackerel, sardine, and tuna, respectively. In contrast, all salmon samples were accepted for Pb and Hg, and only 5% were not accepted due to a higher Cd level than the maximum permissible limit. The average estimated daily intake of (EDI) is below the tolerable daily intakes (TDIs) for all metals. Comparatively, the EDI of Hg was 0.265 μg/kg body weight (B.W) exceeded TDIs 0.228 μg/kg B.W. The hazard index for canned tuna and sardines is more than one. Conclusion: Canned fish products are contaminated with a variety of toxic metals, especially sardine and tuna. Therefore, it is advised to decrease the consumption rate of such fish products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traffic emissions, overpopulation, and poor urban planning have degraded the environmental quality of the Greater Cairo megacity. As road dust is considered the main sink of pollutants in urban environments, thirty road dust samples from six major roads were collected. ICP-OES was used to analyze the samples in order to determine the contamination grade using the pollution indices, decipher metal sources and geochemical associations using multivariate analysis, and evaluate the ecological and human health risks. The average contents of heavy metals were arranged in decreasing order: Fe (1181.12), Zn (201.36), Pb (66.10), Ni (32.42), Cu (26.07), Cr (26.00), Co (14.78), As (2.76), and Hg (0.93) mg/kg. The spatial pattern showed that new urban communities exhibited lower contamination levels compared to unplanned old districts, especially for traffic elements (Pb, Zn, and Cu). The highest Igeo mean value was observed for Hg (3.34) followed by Zn (1.34), Pb (1.24), Ni (0.10), As (− 0.19), Co (− 0.24), Cu (− 0.73), and Cr (− 1.05). Additionally, CF values indicated very high contamination levels for Pb and Zn, whereas the highest PLI value was observed at Ramses Street. All EF values were higher than 1.5, indicating the anthropogenic enrichment of metals. RI values classified Cairo as a region with considerable ecological risk, observing that Hg was the main contributor. Correlation analysis and PCA showed that Pb and Zn originated from vehicle exhaust, Hg, Cu, and As from domestic and industrial activities, and Fe and Co from natural origin. Cr and Ni exhibited potential carcinogenic risks for children through ingestion; conversely, the non-carcinogenic risks were within safe levels. As a result, the use of clean energy is recommended to mitigate the accumulation of heavy metals in road dust and to improve the quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

THIS STUDY targeted the concentrations of heavy metals (iron, manganese, copper, and zinc) in wastewater sources in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt, and proved their presence in different concentrations heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) concentrations in wastewater at Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt, and proved their existence with different concentrations. Numerous microalgae were found to significantly remediate different heavy metals from wastewater. Within the study's conclusions were the isolation and identification of Pseudoanabaena mucicola under accession OR143298 for the remarkable capability of, chemical oxygen demand (COD), total soluble solid (TSS), total dissolved salts (TDS), biological oxygen demand (BOD) and heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) removal from wastewater at 28°C and different pH (7, 8 and 9) for 1-4 weeks. The decreasing capacity by P. mucicola were 90.03% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), 42.95% total dissolved salts (TDS), 89.88% biological oxygen demand (BOD), and increasing the TSS by 125.83% after 4 weeks. P. mucicola absorbs 100% Fe from wastewater after 3 weeks, Mn from wastewater after 2 weeks, Cu, and Zn from wastewater after 1 week, respectively. The results that were presented showed how promising P. mucicola is for biosorbing heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Cu, and Zn) from wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Egypt, salted fish is considered a typically processed fish, including salted sardine, salted mullet (feseikh), keeled mullet (sahlia), and herrings. High-quality protein, polyunsaturated fatty acids, vital amino acids, and trace minerals such as magnesium and calcium are all abundant in fish. However, eating salted fish can expose people to toxins found in the environment, such as heavy metals. Aim: In Zagazig, Egypt, four types of locally produced salted fish--salted sardine, feseikh, sahlia, and herrings--were tested for heavy metals, specifically lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and mercury (Hg). Second, the assessed heavy metals linked to the Egyptian population's consumption of salted fish were used to calculate estimated daily intakes (EDIs) and potential health hazards, such as hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI). Methods: Samples of salted herrings, feseikh, sahlia, and sardines were gathered from the markets in Zagazig. Samples of salted fish were subjected to acid digestion and then heavy metal extraction. Atomic absorption spectrometers (AAS) were used to measure heavy metals. HI, HQ, and EDI were computed computationally. Results: With the exception of mercury, which was not found in the salted herrings, the recorded results showed that all of the tested metals were present in the samples that were evaluated. The herrings contained residual Pb and Cd contents that were highest, followed by sardine, feseikh, and sahlia, in that order. After sardine, herrings, and sahlia, feseikh has the greatest concentration. Sardine, feseikh, and sahlia had the highest quantities of mercury, in that order. A number of samples were found to be above the maximum allowable levels. There were no apparent hazards associated with consuming such conventional fish products, according to the computed HQ and HI values for the heavy metals under investigation based on the daily intakes. Conclusion: Samples of salted fish sold in Zagazig, Egypt, had high quantities of the hazardous elements Pb, Cd, As, and Hg. Due to the bioaccumulation and biomagnification characteristics of these studied metals, such data should be taken carefully even though the computed health hazards revealed no potential problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The consumption of meat is a fundamental aspect of global diets, providing essential nutrients and proteins vital for human nutrition. However, ensuring the safety of meat products has become progressively challenging due to potential contamination by toxic heavy metals (HMs) and pathogenic microorganisms. Aim: This study focuses on assessing the prevalence of Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Arsenic (As), and Cadmium (Cd), in chilled and frozen meat in Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Methods: A total of 30 samples, comprising 15 chilled and 15 frozen beef samples, were collected from various marketing stores in Sharkia. Analysis of toxic metals was conducted via atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) following wet digestion. Results: The average levels (mg/kg) in chilled meat samples were found to be 0.64 ± 0.14 for Pb, undetectable for Hg, 0.02 ± 0.14 for Cd, and 4.66 ± 0.57 for As. In frozen samples, the average concentrations were 0.89 ± 0.21 for Pb, 0.08 ± 0.03 for Hg, 0.02 ± 0.004 Cd, and 5.32 ± 0.59 for As. Generally, the levels of HMs in frozen meat samples were observed to be higher than in chilled samples. Importantly, the levels of Pb were higher than maximum residual concentrations [maximum permissible limit (MPL)] in 53.3% of the chilled and 66.6% of the frozen, Cd levels in chilled and frozen were within the permissible concentrations in all samples, Hg was not identified in all the chilled and in 67% of frozen samples, and As levels were higher than the permissible levels in all samples chilled and frozen. The assessment of human health risk for adults revealed an estimated daily intake (EDI) value of beef meat below the threshold of the oral reference dose (RFD) for all analyzed metals except for As, where 46.7% of chilled samples and 60% of frozen samples exceeded the RFD. Furthermore, both the Hazard Quotient (THQ) for As and Hazard index (HI) for all the analyzed metals were above 1 in 33.3% of chilled samples and 46.7% of frozen samples. Conclusion: This indicates the remarkable adverse effects on human health associated with the consumption of meat with elevated levels of HMs, emphasizing the need for stringent quality control measures within the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed the levels of natural radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th, and 40K) and heavy metals (Hg, Fe, Cr, As, Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb) in surface water and sediment samples from the Nile River in Qena Governorate, southern Egypt, using a gamma-ray spectrometer, 3ʺ NaI (Tl) scintillation detector coupled with 1024 multi-channel analyzer, and an atomic absorption spectrometer. In surface water and sediments, the average activity concentrations of natural radionuclides were 40K (4.73 Bq L−1; 395.76 Bq kg−1) > 226Ra (0.41 Bq L−1; 18.14 Bq kg−1) > 232Th (0.30 Bq L−1; 17.98 Bq kg−1). The average heavy metal concentrations in surface water in µg L−1 were Fe (121.0) > Zn (33.80) > Cr (28.0) > Cu (8.62) > Pb (8.35) > As (1.19) > Hg (0.81) > Cd (0.12). In Nile sediments the concentrations in mg kg−1 were Fe (1670.0) > Zn (207.0) > Cr (29.40) > Cu (16.20) > Pb (4.32) > Hg (0.41) > Cd (0.31) > As (0.14). The heavy metal evaluation index (HMEI) calculations for water samples revealed that 31% of the samples were suitable for domestic use, while 69% were not. The geo-accumulation index, enrichment factor, and ecological risk factor for sediments were estimated, showing extreme enrichment for Hg and Zn with high ecological risk for Hg. Health risks for adults were evaluated due to oral and dermal exposure to Nile surface water and sediments from the study area, indicating minimal radiological risks and potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks from the metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in one of a diverse industrial area in Al-Akrasha, Egypt. Concentrations of select metals (Cu, Pb, Cr, Ni, Zn, Mn, Cd, Al, Ag, As, B, and Fe) were evaluated in ambient PM10 and surface soils at nine sites. Random samples of fresh edible tilapia fish were collected from Ismailia Canal at two sites near the Al-Akrasha region. In addition, blood and hair samples were collected from workers and residents living in Al-Akrasha as biomarkers of contamination with these metals. The ecological and health risks of these metals to the workers and residents living in the Al-Akrasha region were assessed. The results showed that heavy metal levels in the ambient air (PM10) of the Al-Akrasha region were higher than the national and international guidelines. There was a very high degree of contamination (CD > 32) of the surface soil in the Al-Akrasha area, which can be attributed to industrial activities emissions, mostly from smelters and the subsequent deposition on the surface soil. Ingestion was the dominant pathway for metals to enter the human body in the Al-Akrasha region. Adults have a higher daily intake and exposure risk than infants and children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first study to investigate the antioxidant response of the phytoplankton community to heavy metal stress in the open sea. The levels of Cu, Zn, Cd, Mn, Pb, and Fe were determined in the phytoplankton community and water in Abu Talat (AT), and El Dekhella Harbour (DH), Alexandria coast during spring 2018 and autumn 2019. Furthermore, the changes in phytoplankton abundance, the bioconcentration factor (BCF), the metal pollution index (MPI), and the pollution load index (PLI) were used to assess pollution status. The phytoplankton density in the DH stations was 17–42 folds higher than in the AT. The order of BCF during spring was Fe > Zn > Pb > Cu > Mn > Cd. However, Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu > Pb > Cd was found in both areas during the autumn. The BCF, MPI, and PLI of the phytoplankton community revealed that DH is more polluted than AT. The phenol, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and total antioxidant activity of the phytoplankton communities achieved higher values in DH than in AT stations, in response to heavy metal stresses. Principal component analysis was performed to follow pollution sources, suggesting that station 3 in both seasons was a hot spot because of stagnant water. A correlation matrix indicated that phenol and DPPH interacted positively in both locations during the two seasons. Analysis of variances with replicate tests on heavy metals in phytoplankton revealed significant seasonal differences across the two areas at a significance level < 0.05. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to explore the residual concentrations of four heavy metals; mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and cadmium (Cd) in Mullet, Brush tooth lizard, and Coral fish collected from fish markets in Zagazig city, Sharkia Governorate, Egypt. Besides, metal's dietary intake and public health risk were calculated. Atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) was used to analyze these toxic heavy metals in 60 fish samples of Mullet, Brush tooth lizard, and Coral (20 of each). The concentration (mg/ kg) of Hg were the same value (0.02±0.01) in Mullet, Brush tooth lizard, and Coral fish. However, for As were 0.35±0.10, 0.32±0.10, and 0.30±0.08, respectively; meanwhile, Pb concentration was 0.09±0.04 for both Mullet and Brush tooth lizard and it was 0.10±0.04 for Coral fish Cd concentrations were 0.02±0.01 in all examined fish. The estimated daily intake (EDI) of Hg, As, Pb, and Cd were 0.011, 0.191,, 0.049 and 0.011µg/ kg BW/ day, respectively in Mullet; 0.011, 0.174, 0.049, and 0.011 µg/ kg BW/ day in, respectively Brush tooth lizard; 0.011, 0.163, 0.054, and 0.011 µg/ kg BW/ day, respectively in Coral fish, that was below the tolerable daily intake (TDI) recommended by Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The Target hazard quotient (THQ) of Hg, As, Pb, and Cd from consumption of examined fish was less than one which means that there was no hazard from consumption of these fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Suez Gulf is the most critical commerce corridor connecting the Middle East to the rest of the world due to its unique geographic location. Furthermore, it has an economic significance as a fishing and touristic area. These maritime activities have a detrimental effect on marine environments and are responsible for transmitting several harmful substances into the ocean. Therefore, assessing the degree of metal contamination in water and sediments at selected locations along the Suez Gulf from Port Tawfiq to Ras-Gharib is the main objective of this study. According to annual averages, an ecological risk assessment based on seawater quality standards in China and NOAA criteria indicated that these heavy metals did not pollute the Gulf water. Conversely, during the winter, the spatial fluctuations of eight heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Cd, Co, Zn, and Cu) in sediment samples were assessed. Several indicators, including the contamination factor (Cf), pollution load index (PLI), and geo-accumulation index (Igeo), were used to evaluate the level of contamination in the Gulf sediments. The results showed that the two biggest ecological threats were lead and mercury. Additionally, the levels of contamination varied from somewhat contaminated to very contaminated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work aimed to evaluate water pollution with three heavy metals (Cu, Pb and Zn) in Mansoura, El-Mahalla El-Kubra, Tanta, Assiut, Wasta Beni Suef and Shibin Al Qanatir localities, using two freshwater snails: Biomphalaria alexandrina (the intermediate host and vector of schistosomiasis) and Lanistes carinatus as bioindicators. Results showed that the highest concentrations of the three heavy metals were 2.084ppb for Cu found in Tanta, 58.200ppb for Zn in Wasta Beni-Suef, and 20.000ppb for Pb discovered in Assiut. The accumulation of three heavy metals in Lanistes carinatus snail was higher than that in Biomphalaria alexandrina snail. The highest accumulated content inside Lanistes snails was for Cumetal (36838 ppb) from Wasta Beni-Suef area. It could be concluded that B. alexandrina and L. carinatus are suitable bioindicators for the accumulation of heavy metals pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eastern Desert in Egypt is a significant gold-mining region, and its gold mine is one of the world's oldest. The presence of tailings and slag piles in the vicinity of historical mining sites can give rise to environmental risks for the surrounding soil, water, and air. These hazards primarily result from erosion and the interaction between these materials and runoff waters. The mining practices employed in the past involved the storage of ore underground and subsequent surface crushing. However, this approach has resulted in heavy metals and chemicals buildup within soils and sediments. The concentrations of various metals, trace elements, and toxic substances, including Fe, As, Au, Ag, Cu, Co, Ni, Mn, Pb, Cd, CN, Hg, Mo, Li, and Cr, were analyzed in samples collected from the Fawakhir and El Sid sites. The abundance of metals and toxic substances measured in these sediments exhibit a decreasing trend as follows: Fe > As > Cr > Au > Mn > Pb > Ni > Cu > Li > Co > Mo > Cd > Ag > Hg > CN. These toxic elements can persist for long periods and are widespread in natural and artificial sources, including parent rocks, water, atmosphere, and mining activities. Significant quantities of heavy metals, including arsenic (As), iron (Fe), and mercury (Hg), along with highly toxic chemicals such as cyanide (CN), were detected within the silver and gold deposits. The presence of these hazardous substances poses a significant risk to both the local ecosystem and human well-being. Soil contamination in the area can be attributed to various factors, including natural erosion processes, ancient mining activities, and the abandonment of tailing deposits. [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]

A significant source of high quality animal protein, vitamins, and minerals are meat products. However, during the course of production or during the life of the animals used to produce the meat for these businesses, heavy metals may be present in meat products. The amount of dangerous metals like lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and trace elements like copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) that remain in such items is obviously unknown. In order to determine the residual Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn concentrations in three meat products, pasterma, luncheon and sausage, this study was carried out. Additionally, for Egyptian consumers, estimated daily intakes (EDI) and potential health concerns associated with consuming such meat products were calculated. The obtained results showed that the evaluated products were contaminated with the tested metals at varying rates. The highest Cd, Cu, and Zn contents and contamination levels were generally seen in pasterma. While Pb contamination rates at luncheons were highest. The maximum allowable limits for heavy metal residues were not exceeded in any samples. The calculated estimated daily intakes, hazard ratio, and hazard index did not identify any potential concerns related to Egyptian consumers' consumption of such meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests early in childhood but the pathogenic risks are controversial, and some environmental factors are thought to be involved. The association between toxic heavy metals and autism is currently a subject of research, and studies are underway on the role of toxic heavy metals in Egypt, focusing on the social, cultural, and environmental aspects. We investigated the aluminum, cadmium and lead levels in the hair and blood samples of Egyptian autistic children. Methods: This study was conducted between July 2021 and December 2022 on 32 children with diagnosed autism, aged three to 13 years old, whom were compared with 30 age- and gendermatched children (normal controls). These children were subjected to childhood autism rating scale (CARS), and IQ tests. Also, the aluminum, cadmium, and lead levels were measured in their hair and blood samples for further statistical analyses. Results: The autistic children had significantly higher levels of aluminum, lead, and cadmium in the hair samples compared to those of the controls. Also, the blood levels of aluminum and cadmium were significantly higher in the autistic children. Those with severe autism had a higher level of hair aluminum compared to those with mild autism. We found positive correlations among the CARS data versus hair aluminum and blood cadmium levels. The regression analyses on blood cadmium levels were also predictive of CARS. Conclusion: The study findings suggest a likely role for the three heavy metals as being the potential environmental triggers of autism in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This pioneering study utilizes Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (FAAS) and Picosecond Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (Ps-LIBS) to quantify heavy metal contents in samples of Lactuca sativa L. and Trifolium alexandrinum L. collected from Banha and Giza, Egypt for the first time. In order to enhance the performance of Ps-LIBS, laser parameters were carefully optimized. Expressly, laser energy was set to 100 ± 5% J/cm², pulse duration was calibrated to 170 picoseconds, and 1064 nm Nd: YAG pulses were employed. This optimization facilitated the creation of linear LIBS calibration curves, a crucial element in ensuring precise elemental quantification and bolstering the overall analytical reliability. The assessment of pollution indices revealed concerningly high levels of copper, nickel, and cadmium consistently across all study sites. Lactuca sativa L. and Trifolium alexandrinum L. also demonstrated multiple metals' bioaccumulation factors (>1), further underscoring the potential health risks associated with copper, nickel, and cadmium contents. Given these findings, it is imperative to recommend constructing a dedicated wastewater treatment facility to address Al Mansouria village's environmental challenges in the Giza governorate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, the effect of heavy metals accumulation influence was evaluated on adult crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Decapoda, Astacidea) collected from three different Governmental locations (Kafr El-Shaikh, El-Menofya, and El-Gharbiya) of the Egyptian Delta. The activity of super oxidase dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) of gills, hepatopancreas, and muscle tissue were measured. SDS Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and West blotting technique were performed to detect MT Protein expression. Results: The results revealed that Kafr El-Shaikh reflected the highest Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase, and Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity levels (97.2 u/100 mg, 28.5 u/100 mg, and 8.3 nmol mg (-1) protein min (-1) respectively. Superior protein polymorphism % (30%) remarked collected Freshwater crayfish P. clarkii from Kafr El-Shaikh location. Varied protein polymorphism % was shown between collected crayfish from El-Menofya, and El-Gharbiya locations (5.5 and 6.2 respectively) Increasing Metallothioneins intensity (15.4%) for collected Freshwater crayfish Procambarus clarkii from Kafr El-Shaikh Location. Conclusion: Heavy metal stress influences antioxidant status and also induces increasing Metallothioneins intensity, especially samples that were collected from the Kafr El-Shaikh area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work makes integrated value-added, geological and chemical studies on the texturally intricate banded iron formation "BIF" that is represented here, as a case in point, by the Um Nar BIF located in the Central Eastern Desert of Egypt. Geologically, the Um Nar BIF is composed mainly of oxide-rich facies and silicate-rich facies mostly expressed as bands of variable thickness (90–730 µm). Magnetite, martite, goethite, and quartz are detected as the main components of the oxide-rich facies, while epidote, stilpnomelane, and garnet occupy the other facies type. The studied ore can be classified as a low-grade iron ore containing 51.23 wt.% Fe2O3 and 39.64 wt.% SiO2 along with considerable phosphorous content (1.01 wt.% P2O5). These elemental concentrations do not match the recommended benchmarks for iron and steelmaking (e.g.75.78–95.8 wt.% Fe2O3, 5–7 wt.% SiO2, and 0.04 wt.% P2O5). Moreover, the studied BIF has a poor liberation behavior on crushing and grinding due to the complex interlocking of magnetite with quartz and stilpnomelane expressed as a sieve-like texture. This textural complication directed the current work to investigate the potential exploitation of the Um Nar BIF as a precursor of nano-magnetite that is commonly synthesized by ferrous and ferric chlorides. Accordingly, HCl-based agitation leaching followed by co-precipitation was carried out, resulting in ultrafine mesoporous nano-magnetite (2.47–4.27 nm particle size, 120 m2g−1 surface area, 0.55 cm3g−1 pore volume, and 4.88 nm pore diameter) expected to serve in water treatment as an effective adsorbent for heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetlands sediments could be critical indicators to control contamination in the aquatic ecosystem. Qarun Lake is regarded as the third biggest lake in Egypt that is not related to any sea. Twelve georeferenced sediment samples were gathered in September, 2020 from the different locations. Five heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Ni, and Co) were measures in the sediments estimated by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Grain size and content of organic matters in the sediment were estimated on the basis of standard assays, as well as the contamination factor, geoaccumulation index, ecological risk factor, contamination degree and potential ecological risk index in the sediment. Data revealed that the average concentration could be arranged as Ni (27.36 mg k g-1) > Pb (18.28 mg k g-1) > Cr (15.31 mg k g-1) > Co (11.16 mg k g-1) > Cd (23.31 mg k g-1). Cd, Co and Pb were estimated to be in the range of EU (2002) and the US EPA (1999), while Co and Ni in the range of EU (2002). The ecological risk index (Er) of the studied elements in sediments of lake could be arranged as: Ni > Pb > Co > Cd > Cr. In addition, the highestintegrated potential ecological risk was on the south side of the lake, which is subjected to huge amounts of drainage water composed of organic and inorganic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Samples of water, sediment, and three aquatic plants, namely Phragmites australis, Typha domingensis, and Eichhornia crassipes, collected from ten stations were analyzed to estimate the pollution status with heavy metals in two drains (Kitchener and New Damietta) in the Nile Delta, Egypt. Ten indices were used to evaluate the ecological risk released by these metals. Results revealed high concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Cd in the Kitchener Drain water, while Fe was recorded in high concentrations in the New Damietta Drain water. Cu, Pb, Fe, and Cd were recorded to be within the Environmental Protection Agency (US-EPA) (2002) and World Health Organisation (2011) limits for water. A high concentration of Cu, Pb, and Fe was found in the New Damietta Drain sediment, while Cd was found in a high concentration in the Kitchener Drain sediment. Cu, Fe, and Cd were recorded to be within US-EPA (2002) limits for sediments, while Pb exceeded the permissible limits. Eichhornia crassipes accumulates higher concentrations of Cu, Pb, and Cd than the other plant species, while Phragmites australis exhibited the highest concentration of Fe. The study's plant species showed a decreased rate of metal translocation and distribution from their belowground tissues to their aboveground tissues, as indicated by the translocation factor values that were below one. As a result, the studied species accumulate heavy metals in their underground parts and do not effectively transfer metals from the belowground to the aerial parts. Thus, the examined species may be used to phytostabilize metal-polluted sediment as metal excluders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In this study, water quality index (WQI) was applied at one of the most crowded Nile reaches surroundings in Egypt to investigate its impacts on different water uses. Twelve sites are selected for monitoring (S1–S12) within the irrigation system network of the Qalyubia Governorate, and water samples from these locations in 2021 were collected, analyzed, assessed, and compared to analyze water quality data collected in 2014 in light of the Egyptian permissible water quality limits regarding the drinking and irrigation uses. These two main sets of data were chosen to emphasize the change in WQI within this period, denoting the time before the epidemic COVID19 and after the lockdown of the epidemic in 2021 in the study area. Fifteen physicochemical water parameters were measured. The results show that the WQI for the surface water monitoring sites is classified as good quality except for S8, which showed a poor water quality type. In addition, S2 has recorded a BOD concentration of 6.4 mg/L, which is slightly above the Egyptian limit (6 mg/L). Also, S8 recorded a slight increase in Fe, Mn, and F compared to permissible concentrations. TDS varies between 258.08, 318, and (249 ± 18.2) mg/L for minimum, maximum, and average ± standard deviation, respectively, indicating suitable irrigation water. The study suggests that surface water can be used to irrigate crops, but it should be purified before being used for drinking purposes. A comparison of the water quality parameters for the years 2014 and 2021 for the sites S1, S4, S5, S7, S9, and S10 reveals an increase in water quality from poor (2014) to good (2021). Therefore, the poor water quality in 2014 can be referred the effect of inadequate sewage treatment, industrial wastewater flows, and urban runoff discharge, which had been decreased with the decrease in different activities during the epidemic period and lockdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work was carried out to monitor contamination levels of twelve heavy metals (HMs) in the agricultural soils of Kafr El-Zayat city in Egypt. The concentrations of Mg, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, and Pb were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Contamination levels were estimated based on various geochemical parameters such as contamination factor (CF), enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), degree of contamination (Cd), and pollution load index (PLI). The results showed that the majority of investigated soil samples were moderately contaminated (1 ≤ CF < 3) with V, Cr, Co, Cu, Zn, and Sr and had low contamination levels (CF <1) with Mg, Mn, Fe, Ni, and Pb. All investigated elements had geo-accumulation indices smaller than zero indicating uncontaminated soil samples except for V which showed (0 < Igeo < 1) indicating uncontaminated to moderate pollution levels. All soil samples were found to have deficient to minimal enrichment for all investigated HMs based on the average values of EF (EF < 2). Cluster analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that HMs were clustered into three groups compromising As and V; Ni, Cr, Mn, Co, Fe, and Mn; and Pb, Cu, Sr, and Zn, which suggests the presence of different sources of pollution. The contribution of anthropogenic sources to V, Cr, Co, Cu, Zn, As, and Sr was estimated to be 45, 30, 26, 11, 23, 27, and 13% of the total metal content, respectively. In general, the investigated agricultural soil samples could be classified as moderately contaminated and polluted based on the Cd factor (Cd = 13.7), and the PLI (PLI = 1.1), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used a geospatial model to evaluate the regional distributions and buildup of various Heavy Metals (HM) and micronutrients as a result of groundwater irrigation used for lengthy periods in Egypt's El-Kharga and El-Farafra oases, which were formed on western desert terrain, were the subject of the study. To fulfill this aim, field sampling of soil and groundwater was integrated with cartographic modeling. The evaluated HM concentrations in the water samples are below the permitted level for irrigation. The surface soil's element concentrations were within acceptable limits. However, protracted mobility and a potency risk for soil smearing were not spotted. The apportionment of HM concentricity versus soil profundity showed that the assemblage was primarily in the topsoil. Future management plans should consider ongoing HM level monitoring. The lands are divided into three classes: II, III, and IV, according to their capabilities, while the soils are divided into three classes based on their suitability: moderately suitable class S2, marginally acceptable class S3, and permanently unsuitable class N2. Additionally, soil fertility and quality were categorized into low and moderate categories. Land evaluations indicate that they are promising areas for agricultural investment under the conditions of using modern agricultural techniques. The most important results of the study are that the non-technical use of irrigation water in some areas has exacerbated the problems of salinity, especially in those where the drainage characteristics are poor. Concentrations of HM were found only in agricultural areas adjacent to urban areas and poor drainage, especially in agricultural areas reclaimed for more than 50 years. High concentrations of HM were also found in shallow wells close to the same places, and there were no significant concentrations in blind wells. The main recommendation of the study is the necessity of using modern agricultural and irrigation systems in those places. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emerald and other beryls represent a family of the most valuable gemstone around the world and particularly in Egypt. Beryllium (Be) contents in beryl-bearing bedrocks in south Sinai (Wadi Ghazala and Wadi Sedri), and in central and south Eastern Desert of Egypt (Igla area, Zabara-Um Addebaa belt, Homret Akarem, and Homret Mukpid) were investigated in this study. The environmental risk levels of Be, associated major ions, and heavy metals in groundwater nearby to beryl-bearing mineralization were also evaluated. Results showed that Be contents ranged from 1 to 374 ppm in beryl-bearing bedrocks, while in nearby groundwater, Be content has a range of 0.0001–0.00044 mg/L with an average of 0.00032 mg/L, which is within the permissible levels and below (0.004) the U.S. EPA maximum contaminant level (MCL). Most levels of heavy metals (e.g., Be, B, Ni, V, Fe, and Al) in the investigated groundwater of central and south Eastern Desert and south Sinai are within the permissible levels and below their corresponding U.S. EPA MCLs. This study also investigated the radiological risk of natural radionuclides distributed in beryl-bearing bedrocks in the study area using gamma spectrometry; Sodium Iodide [NaI(Tl)] scintillation detector. Among the estimated mean 238U, 232Th, and 226Ra activity concentrations of the studied beryl-bearing rocks, Homret Mukpid (79, 87.15, 60.26 Bq kg−1) and Homret Akarem (111.6, 51.17, 85.1 Bq kg−1) contain the highest values. This may be attributed to their highly fractionated granitic rocks that host uranium and thorium reservoir minerals such as zircon, allanite, and monazite. The estimated data of multi-radiological parameters such as absorbed gamma dose, outdoor and indoor annual effective dose, radium equivalent activity, internal and external indices, index of excess cancer, and effective dose to human organs reflecting no significant impacts from the emitted natural gamma radiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vibrio alginolyticus, Vibrio chlorea, and Enterococcus cloacae were the main bacterial pathogens investigated during recurrent episodes of mortalities among farmed flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus) in the Bahar El-Baqar area, Sharqia governorate, Egypt, during the summer season in 2021. Nevertheless, the contamination of water with heavy metals was evaluated. In this study, a total number of sixty moribund and freshly dead Mugil cephalus were examined clinically and upon post-mortem. Then, the bacterial isolates were subjected to bacteriological phenotypic examination, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and antibiotic sensitivity testing. Histopathological screening and the immunity response of naturally infected M. cephalus were also implemented. In areas where bacterial strains were recovered in a high percentage, water contamination with Cu, Fe, and Ni was higher than the permissible limit. The results showed a high similarity (99–100%) to Vibrio and E. cloacae strains using phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA. Most isolates exhibited sensitivity to florfenicol, ciprofloxacin, and norfloxacin, while they were resistant to erythromycin and amoxicillin. Hemorrhage, oedema, hemosiderosis, and melanomacrophage activation in most affected tissues of infected M. cephalus were detected by light microscopy. Nevertheless, higher levels of AST and ALT, as well as serum inflammatory markers, CRP, and lysozyme activity, were shown in infected fish. There were higher MDA levels, along with a reduction of GSH, SOD, and catalase, in the gills and brain of infected M. cephalus, compared to the control fish. Our obtained data confirmed the high prevalence of Vibrio serovars and E. cloacae in infected grey mullets, describing their histopathological alterations, higher inflammatory response, and oxidative stress impact. These results could be useful indicators for understanding the pathogenesis of these pathogens in correlation with water parameter deterioration. Thus, the emergence of Vibrio and E. cloacae species in this study threatens the brackish water aquaculture industry in Egypt and poses a public health concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the metal bioaccumulation capability of heavy metal-resistant bacterium isolated from Lake Qarun. Physicochemical parameters and heavy metals of Lake Qarun water were evaluated using the EUREKA Manta2 device and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (ASS), respectively. Geostatistical analyses were used for the spatial representation of the investigated parameters. The bacterial isolate was identified as Bacillus cereus, using the MALDI-TOF MS platform, exhibited notable resistance to higher levels of lead (Pb+2), cadmium (Cd+2) and nickel (Ni+2) at 1700, 175 and 80 mg/l, respectively. Furthermore, this isolate showed a high capacity to remove Pb+2 (59.9%), Ni+2 (83%) and Cd+2 (79.4%) The impact of specific physicochemical factors, including temperature, pH, initial metal concentration, and incubation period, was also evaluated concerning bioaccumulation. The optimal pH for the removal of Pb, Ni and Cd was found to be 7. The bacterium exhibited maximum accumulation capacity after 96 h of incubation with each metal while maintaining a temperature of 37°C. The transmission electron microscope revealed that metals were predominantly observed both extracellularly and intracellularly, concomitant with alterations in cellular morphology. The bioaccumulation capacity (removal efficiency) for each metal by bacteria exhibited a notable swiftness, which presents a potential advantage in the context of treating contaminated sites on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to monitor physico-chemical parameters and heavy metal (HM) levels in the water, HM levels, and haemato-biochemical changes in parasite-infected and non-infected catfish, Clarias gariepinus, in wild and cultivated origins. The outcomes of physico-chemical properties and heavy metal (HM) levels in water revealed significant variations between the two selected sites, except for cadmium metal (p< 0.05). HM concentrations in both water and organs of the two catfish origins decreased as the following decreased: Fe < Zn < Pb < Cu < As < Cd. Furthermore, the concentration of vital HM was significantly lower in wild catfish as compared to cultivated catfish, whereas non-vital HM was significantly higher in wild catfish. However, the HM accumulation in the different organs of catfish is ranked in ascending order: liver > gills > intestine > muscles. The hematological and biochemical investigations revealed a significant decline in the hemoglobin value, packed cell volume, number of red blood cells, albumin, total protein, and globulin while total aspartate aminotransferase activity, white blood cell count, alanine aminotransferase activity, glucose, and urea levels were all significantly higher in parasitic-infected catfish from two origins compared to uninfected catfish. Human health hazards, as evaluated by non-carcinogenic risk (hazard index and target hazard quotient), estimated daily intake, and carcinogenic risk, were all below the benchmark's allowable range. Nonetheless, the outcome of the health risk assessment suggests that consumption of the muscles of catfish from wild and cultivated origins cannot pose considerable health risks for children and adult consumers. Additionally, the prevalence of parasites can be used as a surrogate indicator to predict the possible impact of metal pollution and bioaccumulation. Consequently, this study suggests that Egypt's environmental management conducts routine HM monitoring in the studied sites to reduce potential health risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) concentrations in the sediment and tissues of Oreochromis niloticus fish from a Nile River canal (Muweis Canal), Egypt, were subjected to an investigation between May and July 2022 at six stations along the canal. Concentrations of As and Hg were determined via an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that the concentrations of metals in the liver, muscle and sediment varied significantly among the different sampling sites. The contamination factor (CF) and potential ecological risk index (RI) indicated a considerable risk for aquatic life. For O. niloticus consumption, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of Hg was less than the permissible daily intake. However, the target hazard quotient (THQ) and target cancer risk (CR) values for As exceed the acceptable value range, suggesting a risk of cancer for consumers. Therefore, the continuous monitoring for heavy metals in Muweis Canal and similar localities in Egypt should be improved to preserve ecological and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the concentration of metals such as aluminum (Al), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), barium (Ba), bismuth (Bi), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se) in 360 samples of poultry meat and liver from six brands (A, B, C, D, E, and F) in Assiut, Egypt; compare these concentrations with Egyptian and world permissible limits; and determine their safety for human consumption according to health risk assessment. Chest, thigh muscles, and liver were collected randomly from Assiut city markets, and the concentration of heavy metals was measured in the central laboratory of the faculty of agriculture at Assiut University using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). All the analyzed samples were positive for the tested metals and were far below the allowed maximum permissible limits except for Pb and Fe, which exceeded the Egyptian Organization for Standardization (EOS) permissible limits with 33% and 67%, respectively, as well as Pb and Cd, which exceeded FAO/WHO permissible limits with 94% and 17%, respectively. Health risk assessment revealed the safety and minimum health risk for human consumption of metal residues in poultry tissues and liver using estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and target cancer risk (TR). Even though the THQ and HI values were significantly lower than 1.0 during our study, heavy metal monitoring in poultry products and byproducts is required for human security and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite studies focusing on soil substrates (carbon and nitrogen) and heavy metal availability, the impact of diversified parent materials in arid alkaline regions has received little attention. To reveal the influence of parent material, we investigated four different parent materials: fluvio-marine, Nile alluvial, lacustrine, and aeolian deposits. We assessed the effect of soil parent materials through selected soil physical and chemical properties, such as clay content, bulk density, pH, and available phosphorus (AP). The Tukey HSD test (SPSS ver. 23) was used to assess the soils derived from these different sediments. Using the R "glmulti" package, we examined this effect in a model of mixed-effects meta-regression. The sum of Akaike weights for models that contained each element was used to estimate the importance of each factor. The average contents of soil organic carbon (SOC) and total N in alluvial deposits were greater (p < 0.001) than those of marine, aeolian, and lacustrine deposits. A multivariate analysis in arid regions revealed that parent material, soil pH, and the availability of P had the greatest effects on SOC concentration, whereas clay content, available P, soil pH, parent material, and bulk density had the greatest effects on soil total nitrogen. The average content of Fe in the aeolian deposits was greater (p < 0.001) than those of marine, alluvial, and lacustrine deposits, without any significant differences between the latter two deposits. We found that the highest average contents of zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) were recorded in alluvial deposits, with significant differences between other deposits. Soil parent material was the major factor impacting soil iron (Fe) content, along with clay content and soil pH. However, soil bulk density was the most important factor controlling soil Zn and Mn contents, while SOC drove Cu content. This study will help in developing a more accurate model of the dynamics of soil substrates and availability of heavy metals by considering readily available variables, such as parent materials, soil pH, soil bulk density, and clay content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty-nine sediment samples were collected from the Hurghada Bay, a heavily polluted bay on the Red Sea of Egypt, to inspect the environmental quality status and anthropogenic consequences on benthic foraminifera. Some foraminiferal species showed deformations in their apertures and coiling directions as a response to environmental stresses. In addition, the FoRAM index, an index used for evaluating the growth of coral reefs, indicated a hazard in the proximity of nearshore stations. To elucidate the relationships between the biological response and chemistry of sediments, eight heavy metals concentrations (Cu, Cd, Zn, Pb, As, Cr, Ni, and Mn) were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–atomic emission spectrometers (ICP-AES). Interestingly, two groups of benthic foraminiferal associations were illustrated using multivariate statistical analyses. Group I have extremely high heavy metal concentrations, an enriched total organic matter (TOM)%, high deformation percentages, and mud content. Moreover, it is dominated by Ammonia tepida which is regarded as an opportunistic species. Group II includes low to moderately polluted stations, highly enriched living foraminiferal assemblages, and is dominated by the sensitive rotaliids Neorotalia calcar and Amphistegina lobifera. Alternatively, four geochemical indices, EF, CF, Igeo, and PLI, are used to assess the contamination level that shown ominous spots for the nearshore stations of the Hurghada Bay. The pollution indices (HQ and HI) were also conducted to evaluate the risks of carcinogenic heavy metals on human health. Our findings demonstrated that ingestion and dermal exposure have greater carcinogenic hazards for adults and children than inhalation. The lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) is significantly higher than the permissible limit and follows this order: Pb > As > Cr > Cd > Ni. To that end, developing strategies to lessen the negative impact of pollution on human health and/or the Red Sea's biodiversity is an inevitable issue in the present day and future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) heavy metals are considered potentially hazardous toxins which cause serious health problems. Many studies reported that the water of Qaroun Lake in Fayoum, Egypt with its fish farms was contaminated with Pb and Cd above permissible levels. However, there is a lack of studies addressing levels of these toxic metals among inhabitants. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate blood levels of Pb and Cd and their potential health risk among inhabitants around Qaroun Lake. Materials and methods: This case-control study estimated Pb and Cd blood levels among 190 individuals from two destinations (near and far away) of Qaroun Lack using an atomic absorption spectrometer after full history taking and routine checkup investigations; Full blood count, serum ferritin, liver enzyme (ALT), and creatinine levels. Results: There was a significant difference between blood levels of Pb and Cd heavy metals of inhabitants from near and far away Qaroun Lake destinations (p-value < 0.001). The majority of inhabitants around Qaroun Lake had Pb and Cd blood levels above permissible levels (100% and 60% respectively). Critical levels out of them were 12.1% and 30.3% respectively. In comparison to inhabitants faraway Qaroun Lake, three individuals (2.4%) had Cd above the permissible level, while all of them (100%) had Pb level within the permissible level. There were no statistically significant differences between the two sampled populations as regards hemoglobin level, ALT, creatinine, and ferritin serum levels (p-value > 0.05). The difference between studied populations regarding types of anemia was not statistically significant. Subclinical leucopenia was higher in the population near Qaroun Lake when compare to inhabitants far from the lake (13.6% vs. 4.8%, p-value 0.032). Conclusion: Bio-monitoring of populations exposed to Pb and Cd hazardous substances could help in generating an early warning system to reduce the disease burden associated with their toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]