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Understanding the seasonal variations in the landfill leachate plumes (LLPs) properties and complex connections between concentrations of leachate variability, and its environment is essential for environmental and public health management. This study explores the combined electrical resistivity (ER) data and physiochemical water analysis (PWA) coupled with the excavations to monitor the landfill physiochemical properties (LPPs) due to seasonal variations and their implications on environmental vital organs and public health. The variations in ER and LLP distributions across the overburdened top layer due to seasonal changes were examined. The low ER contrasts were encountered within the ranges of 1.5 Ωm – 19.0 Ωm which was mapped as LLP accumulated zones within the landfill, while high ER values varied between 15 Ωm – 260 Ωm off-the landfill extending beyond 15 m. The results of the PWA indicate high concentrations of heavy metals (HMs) such as iron (Fe), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) decreasing with wet seasons and increasing with dry seasons. The overall high concentration of HMs in the LLPs was indeed varied between 9.81 ± 2.15–19.07 ± 3.68, while the electrical conductivity (EC) significantly increased from 17.99 ± 1.92 mg/L to 24.87 ± 3.31 mg/L towards the wet season. The increment and decrement encountered in the LPPs are due to seasonal variation and dilution. The order of decrement in the HMs in the LLPs treads as follows EC > Fe > Zn > Pb > Cd in values, respectively. The near-surface EC aligned well with the ER results and boundaries of the waste disposal site, which was verified by the soil excavations. In addition, the ER method was extended beyond the landfill for adequate monitoring, identifying the subsurface layers, conductive shallow zones mapped as the zones of LLP accumulation, resistive deep and shallow zones mapped as the consolidated lateritic topsoil and crystalline basement rocks in some cases, and a dipping conductive lineament zones identified as fracture zones just before the crystalline basement. In conclusion, the ER technique reveals the vertical and horizontal extents of the LLP escapade, the PWA expressed the concentrations of HMs in the LLPs, heightening the implications on the environmental and human health. Finally, the combined techniques deployed for monitoring the physiochemical properties of LLPs due to seasonal variation and the impacts on the integrity of groundwater quality systems and public health inform sustainable waste management practices, which contributes significantly to the protection of groundwater resources and the development of effective strategies to safeguard groundwater systems and public health for present and future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are extensively discharged through various anthropogenic activities, resulting in an environmental risk on a global scale. In this case, microorganisms can survive in an extreme heavy metal-contaminated environment via detoxification or resistance, playing a pivotal role in the speciation, bioavailability, and mobility of heavy metals. Therefore, studies on the mechanism for the microbial transformation of heavy metals are of great importance and can provide guidance for heavy metal bioremediation. Current research studies on the microbial transformation of heavy metals mainly focus on the single oxidation, reduction and methylation pathways. However, complex microbial transformation processes and corresponding bioremediation strategies have never been clarified, which may involve the inherent physicochemical properties of heavy metals. To uncover the underlying mechanism, we reclassified heavy metals into three categories based on their biological transformation pathways, namely, metals that can be chelated, reduced or oxidized, and methylated. Firstly, we comprehensively characterized the difference in transmembrane pathways between heavy metal cations and anions. Further, biotransformation based on chelation by low-molecular-weight organic complexes is thoroughly discussed. Moreover, the progress and knowledge gaps in the microbial redox and (de)methylation mechanisms are discussed to establish a connection linking theoretical advancements with solutions to the heavy metal contamination problem. Finally, several efficient bioremediation strategies for heavy metals and the limitations of bioremediation are proposed. This review presents a solid contribution to the design of efficient microbial remediation strategies applied in the real environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a detrimental heavy metal propagated from soil to the food chain via plants, posing a great risk to human health upon consumption. Despite the understanding of Cd tolerance mechanisms in plants, whether and how plants actively respond to Cd and in turn restrict its uptake and accumulation remain elusive. Here, we identify a cell wall-associated receptor-like kinase 4 (WAKL4) involved in specific tolerance to Cd stress. We show that Cd rapidly and exclusively induces WAKL4 accumulation by promoting WAKL4 transcription and blocking its vacuole-dependent proteolysis in roots. The accumulated WAKL4 next interacts with and phosphorylates the Cd transporter NRAMP1 at Tyr488, leading to the enhanced ubiquitination and vacuole-dependent degradation of NRAMP1, and consequently reducing Cd uptake. Our findings therefore uncover a mechanism conferred by the WAKL4-NRAMP1 module that enables plants to actively respond to Cd and limit its uptake, informing the future molecular breeding of low Cd accumulated crops or vegetables. This study demonstrates a WAKL4 receptor-like kinase that is rapidly and specifically induced by Cadmium. It reveals a unique mechanism conferred by the WAKL4-NRAMP1 module that enables plants to actively respond to Cadmium and limit its uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is crucial for life, and although groundwater is considered safe, it can degrade due to inadequate source protection and inefficient resource management. The aim of the study was to assess the impact of landfill operations on water quality from selected landfill sites. Spectrometry analytical techniques were used to assess the physicochemical parameters of the samples. The study found that while Salmonella was absent in most samples, E. coli and total coliforms were present, making the water unsafe for domestic use. Although turbidity, pH, temperature and other parameters were within acceptable GSA/WHO levels, total coliform and E. coli raise concerns about faecal contamination and potential health risks. Cadmium was absent in all samples, but chromium, lead, arsenic and mercury were detected. These heavy metals could pose health hazards to consumers. The samples showed no risk of noncarcinogenic and carcinogenic risk to consumers, but then there is a potential health risk to consumers over time due to bioaccumulation. Regular monitoring and periodic assessments are recommended to ensure water safety. Proper waste management practices in landfill areas can minimize potential impacts on water quality, highlighting the need for continuous monitoring and assessment. The municipal authorities can inform residents of the situation and put in policies to protect human health. The results could help residents know the level of contamination of water from their boreholes and the necessary precautions to take to reduce their health impact. A treatment system can be developed in detail to their peculiar need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a multifaceted disease characterized by the gradual accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations within cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and invasive behavior. The intricate interplay between environmental factors, such as exposure to carcinogens, and the molecular cascades governing cell growth, differentiation, and survival contributes to cancer's development and progression. This review offers a comprehensive overview of key molecular targets and their roles in cancer development. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors are implicated in various cancers due to their role in regulating lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cell proliferation. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 protects cells from oxidative damage but can also promote tumor cell survival. Cytochrome P450 1B1 metabolizes exogenous and endogenous substances, and its increased expression is observed in several cancers. The constitutive androstane receptor regulates gene expression, and its dysregulation can lead to liver cancer. Transforming growth factor-beta 2 is involved in the development and progression of various cancers by dysregulating cell proliferation, differentiation, and migration. Chelation treatment has been investigated for removing heavy metals, while genetically altered immune cells show promise in treating specific cancers. Metal–organic frameworks and fibronectin targeting represent new directions in cancer treatment. While some heavy metals, such as arsenic, chromium, nickel, and cadmium, are known to have carcinogenic properties, others, like zinc, Copper, gold, bismuth, and silver, have many uses that highlight their potential as effective cancer control tactics. There are a variety of heavy metal-based technologies that show potential for improving cancer treatment methods, including targeted drug delivery, improved radiation, and diagnostic tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, heavy metals have become major threats to human health. Over the past decades, many traditional methods have been used to remove these pollutants from water, including ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, ion exchange, solvent extraction, and chemical precipitation. However, these methods have disadvantages such as high cost. In this study, aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Calendula officinalis L. were introduced to remove heavy metals from polluted river water as a new environmental sustainability. Five heavy metals (Fe, Ba, As, Mn, and Sr) were monitored, and their concentrations in river water were tested using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) spectrometry. The results showed that the alcoholic and aqueous extracts of Calendula officinalis L. were highly effective in removing 100% Fe, 96% Ba, 100% As and Mn, and 92% Sr. The best removal rates were recorded at pH 8, removal time 30min, and extract concentration of 0.3g/ L of contaminated water. C. officinalis extract has been shown to be effective in removing heavy elements and is considered a promising future alternative in the field of water treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Induced heavy metals (HMs) phytoextraction from heavily contaminated soils is challenging, as high HM bioavailability causes phytotoxicity and leaching. This study introduces a novel approach for HM immobilization with biochar (BC) and lignin (LN), and later their controlled mobilization with citric acid (CA) in soil. Conocarpus erectus was grown for 120 days in shooting-range soil (SS) polluted with Pb, Cr, Cd, Ni, and Cu. HM concentrations in parts of the plants, their percentage removal, and leaching from SS were measured. Moreover, plant biochemical parameters such as the contents of chlorophyll a (Chl-a), chlorophyll b (Chl-b), protein, ascorbic acid (AsA), amino acids, and total phenolics, along with biophysical parameters such as relative water content (RWC) and water uptake capacity (WUC), were also inspected. Adding BC, LN, and BC+LN to SS improved biomass, as well as the biophysical and biochemical parameters of plants, while efficiently reducing HM concentrations in plant parts, DTPA extract, and leachates compared to the control (CK). However, the greatest amplifications in plant height (82%), dry weight of root (RDW) (109%), and dry weight of shoot (SDW) (87%), plant health, and soil enzymes were noted with the BC+LN+CA treatment, compared with the CK. Moreover, this treatment resulted in Pb, Cr, Cd, Ni, and Cu removal by 68, 30, 69, 59, and 76% from the SS compared to the CK. Surprisingly, each HM concentration in the leachates with BC+LN+CA was below the critical limits for safer water reuse and agricultural purposes. Initial HM immobilization in HM-polluted soils, followed by their secured mobilization during enhanced phytoextraction, can enhance HM removal and reduce their leaching without compromising plant and soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike municipal solid waste bottom ash (MSWBA), fly ash (MSWFA) is landfilled due to its toxicity. However, MSWFA may also be a source of elements. Ash samples collected from a Portuguese MSW incinerator from different locations and over six months were analyzed. Their geochemical composition was normalized to the upper continental crust (UCC) and compared since metal enrichment may be used as an indicator for potential recovery. The potential recovery economic viability was also assessed for metals K, Sb, Cu, Pb, and Zn, considering the ore cut-off grade and minimum industrial grade (MIG) from Chinese geological and mineral industry standards. Compared to the global samples, only the Baghouse 1 FA size fraction's coarse fraction showed a slight enrichment (1- to 5-fold) in Bi, Nb, and Zr. After wet sieving, most trace elements were enriched in all fractions, but Sb, Bi, Pb, Zn, Ag, As, Cd, Sn, Se, and Hg were depleted in the coarse fractions and enriched in the fine ones. For Baghouse 1 samples collected over 6 months, the normalization to the UCC showed enrichment of Zn and Pb between 10× and 50×, Zr, Cu, In, and Se between 50× and 100×, and Ag, Mn, Cd, Sb, and Bi at more than 100×. Over six months, the Baghouse 1 FA soluble fraction ranged between 21 wt.% and 30 wt.%, and its precipitates comprised 27% CaO, 6% Na2O, and 9% K2O. The K concentration in the MSWFA was above the cut-off and the MIG, and K could be concentrated in precipitates via simple washing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norwegian spring spawning (NVG) herring milt is a raw material with high nutritional and functional values. However, its incorporation into food presents physicochemical and sensory challenges. Its high DNA content, the presence of TMA/TMAO and possibly heavy metal and/or environmental pollutants, and its bitter taste due to amino acids or peptides requires a careful approach to food development. Hydrolysis with food-grade enzymes enable an improvement in both the functional and sensory properties of the substrate and the increased stability of the raw materials and end products. HLPC, GC-MS, and in vitro protocols were used for the characterisation of manually extracted material (sample code: HMC) and milt from a fish-filleting line from early spring/late autumn catches. Three different food-grade protein hydrolysates were prepared from these raw materials (sample codes: H1, H2, and H3) as a means to estimate their functional food development potential. Combinations of three commercial enzymatic preparations were applied, targeting specific sensory properties. Parameters related to consumer safety (e.g., the presence of heavy metals and TMA/TMAO); beneficial health effects, such as antioxidant or antihypertensive bioactivities (measured using in vitro TAC, ORAC, DPPH, and ACE I inhibitory activity assays); the presence of beneficial fatty acids and micronutrients; and the protein quality were studied. On the basis of their total amino acid compositions, freeze-dried herring milt and hydrolysates could provide high-quality protein with most of the essential amino acids and taurine. Powdered milt has a particularly high fatty acid profile of bioavailable omega-3 fatty acids (2024.06 mg/100 g docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) and 884 mg/100 g eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3)). The experimentally measured levels of arsenic (3.9 ± 1.2 mg/kg) and cadmium (0.15 ± 0.05 mg/kg) were higher than the levels of the other two heavy metals (mercury and lead). The bioactivity is concentration-dependent. Overall, this work presents complementary information for the future utilisation of C. harengus powdered milt (possibly obtained directly from a fish-filleting line) and some of its protein hydrolysates as food ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban air pollution, especially from heavy metal (HM) contamination, poses significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the spatial and temporal distribution of HM contamination in Thessaloniki, Greece, using Syntrichia moss as a bioindicator to inform urban environmental management strategies. Moss samples were collected from 16 locations representing diverse urban activity zones (motorway, industrial, city center, airport) in March, May, and July 2024. The concentrations of 12 HMs (Al, Sb, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Ni, V, and Zn) were analyzed using ICP-MS, and the contamination factors were calculated relative to controlled moss samples. The results revealed significant spatial variation, with elevated levels of As, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Zn, particularly in high-traffic and industrial zones, exceeding the background levels by up to severe and extreme contamination categories. Temporal trends showed decreases in Al, Ba, and Ni from March to July 2024, while Cr and Cu increased, suggesting seasonally varying sources. Multivariate analyses further distinguished the contamination patterns, implicating traffic and industrial activities as key contributors. Syntrichia effectively captures HM contamination variability, demonstrating its value as a cost-effective bioindicator. These findings provide critical data that can guide urban planners in developing targeted pollution mitigation strategies, ensuring compliance with the European Green Deal's Zero Pollution Action Plan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Instrumental neutron activation analysis in combination with the method of moss biomonitoring for the assessment of atmospheric deposition of heavy metals and other elements was applied for the first time in the Ryazan Region in Russia. Concentrations of 42 macro, micro and trace elements in 63 moss samples (Hylocomium splendens and Pleurozium schreberi, as well as Hypnum cupressiforme, Sciuro-hypnum sp., Plagiothecium sp. and Ptilium sp.), collected on a relatively uniform grid in the study area, were determined. On the basis of analytical results using GIS technologies, maps of the spatial distribution of heavy metals and other toxic elements were constructed for the Ryazan region. The method of multivariate statistical analysis (factor analysis) was used to identify the main sources of pollution—large industrial facilities located in this region. The obtained results were included in the Atlas of Atmospheric Deposition of Heavy Metals, which is published by the UN Commission on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution (UNECE ICP Vegetation). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secondary, substitute habitats are becoming more important for the survival of many valuable plant species, including medicinal plants—for example, bearberry Arctostaphylos uva-ursi. The aim of the conducted research is to compare the ability of A. uva-ursi to accumulate heavy metals in leaves from railways (anthropogenic substitute habitat) and the natural habitats (pine forests). We measured the concentration of five heavy metals (Cd, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in plant material and in the soil. The bioaccumulation factor was also calculated. Moreover, we measured biotic factors including A. uva-ursi height and abundance, along with the plant diversity indices, in the investigated plots. The presented results reveal that (1) none of the parameters concerning the content of the selected heavy metals described in the currently applicable legal acts were exceeded, (2) A. uva-ursi does not show the potential for heavy metal accumulation, except for zinc and partially mercury, (3) its individuals in the natural habitats are lower, (4) the abundance (percentage cover) of A. uva-ursi is the lowest in the natural habitat, and (5) the value of the Shannon–Wiener diversity index is the highest in the vegetation patches with A. uva-ursi developed in natural habitats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To explore the association between mixed exposure to low concentrations of heavy metals (cadmium, lead, mercury) and bone density, as well as the mediating effects of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP), parathyroid hormone (PT), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted based on NHANES survey data*, including a total of 1 465 participants. Polynomial logistic regression was used to analyze related risk factors, and Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) was employed to assess the impact of mixed exposure to cadmium, lead, and mercury on bone density. The mediation effects of ALP, BAP, PT, Ca, and P in the relationship between exposure to cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and bone density were analyzed using the Mediation package in R software (Bootstrap method). Results The results of polynomial logistic regression indicated that the risk of bone loss increased at the third quartile (T3) of Cd concentration (02=1.56, 95%CI: 1,08-2.26); the risk also increased at the second quartile (T2) of Pb concentration (O=1.49, 95%CI: 1.06-2.08). Conversely, the risk of osteoporosis decreased at T3 of Hg concentration (OR=0.38, 95%CI: 0.15-0.94). BKMR model analysis revealed that increased concentrations of cadmium, lead, and mercury were associated with a decrease in bone density scores (T-score), with posterior inclusion probabilities for Cd, Pb, and Hg being 1, 1, and 0,47, respectively. Mediation analysis showed that Cd influenced bone density through the mediating effects of ALP and Ca, with mediation proportions of -323% and -64.9%, respectively, Hg affected bone density through the mediating effects of ALP and BAP, with mediation proportions of 73% and 61,8%. Pb influenced bone density through the mediating effects of ALP, BAP, and PT, with mediation proportions of 38.9%, 97.6%, and 1.5%, respectively. Conclusion There is a negative correlation between low concentrations of mixed exposure of cadmium, lead, and mercuiy and T-score, and the mediating effects of ALP, BAP, PT, and Ca are statistically significant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial expansion and inadequate environmental safety measures are major contributors to environmental contamination, with heavy metals (HMs) and pharmaceutical waste playing crucial roles. Their negative effects are most noticeable in aquatic species and vegetation, where they accumulate in tissues and cause harmful results. Interactions between HMs and pharmaceutical molecules result in the production of metal-drug complexes (MDCs), which have the potential to disturb diverse ecosystems and their interdependence. However, present studies frequently focus on individual pollutants and their effects on specific environmental parameters, leaving out the cumulative effects of pollutants and their processes across several environmental domains. To address this gap, this review emphasizes the environmental sources of HMs, elucidates their emission pathways during anthropogenic activities, investigates the interactions between HMs and pharmaceutical substances, and defines the mechanisms underlying the formation of MDCs across various ecosystems. Furthermore, this review underscores the simultaneous occurrence of HMs and pharmaceutical waste across diverse ecosystems, including the atmosphere, soil, and water resources, and their incorporation into biotic organisms across trophic levels. It is important to note that these complex compounds represent a higher risk than individual contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public health and environmental well-being have become increasingly threatened by the contamination of pharmaceuticals and heavy metal ions. This study focuses on addressing this critical issue by developing a novel electrochemical sensor for the dual-functional detection of acetaminophen (AP) and Cu2+. Utilizing willow catkins as a biomass template, a hollow tubular NiS@NSC composite was prepared by simple nickel salt impregnation combined with calcination and sulfurization. A highly sensitive dual-functional electrochemical sensor was thus constructed that can detect both acetaminophen (AP) and Cu2+. By examining its electrochemical properties, the sensor achieves an impressive detection limit of 1.33 pM for AP, with a linear range of 4.00 pM ~ 0.15 mM. The sensor can also detect Cu2+, with a detection limit of 1.04 µM, and a linear range of 3.13 µM ~ 0.66 mM. The sensor also exhibits strong resistance to interference, and good repeatability and stability. In addition, the sensor has demonstrated good performance in actual sample analysis, including the detection of AP in serum and Cu2+ in wastewater. This excellent electrochemical sensing performance is mainly attributed to the synergistic effect of its unique tubular structure and highly conductive N, S co-doped carbon. This results in the sensor exhibiting minimal charge transfer resistance, an extensive electrochemically active surface area, and a high density of active sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: The heavy metal ions are the typical carcinogenic agents. Up to now, the interaction mechanism of toxic metal ions with the biomolecules such as carbohyrate have not been elucidated and reported in the detail. In this research work, the adjacent dissociation Gibbs energy (EAB) of M3+(H2O)5(R-OH) complexes depended significantly on the molecular volume of primary alcohols and the inductive effects of substituent R in primary alcohols (R = CH3, CH3CH2, CH3CH2CH2, CH3CH2CH2CH2, Cl-CH2, F-CH2) as well as the length of linear cellulose. The affinity of M3+(H2O)5 ions with the sixth water molecule in gas phase reduced in the order as follows: Fe3+ > Ru3+ > Os3+, which were determined by the EAB values and bond lengths of M–O. The water solvent made the EAB values of Fe3+(H2O)6 ions and Fe3+(H2O)5(CH3OH) ions changed completely in the case of the polarizable continuum model, while the Onsager model gave the good agreement with the gas phase model. Methods: The nature of interaction between hydrated Fe3+(H2O)5 ion and the hydroxy groups of primary alcohols were investigated using density functional theory method at the B3LYP/6–311 + G** level, the PBEPBE/6–311 + G** level. The influence of water solvent was evaluated using the Onsager model and the polarizable continuum model. The two-layer ONIOM approach and the local softness analysis were employed for the hydroxy groups of linear cellulose at the B3LYP/6–311 + G**:HF/6-31G* level. The affinity of M3+(H2O)5 ions (M = Fe, Ru, and Os) with the sixth water molecule were probed at the B3LYP/QZVPP/6–311 + G** level (QZVPP basis set for the metal atoms). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil and wastewater samples contaminated by petroleum-related industries were collected from various locations in Saudi Arabia, a country known for its vast oil reserves. The samples were analyzed for their physicochemical properties, including the presence of metals, petroleum hydrocarbons, and aromatic compounds. A total of 264 fungal isolates were analyzed and categorized into eight groups of Aspergillus (194 isolates) and four groups of Penicillium (70 isolates). The potential of these fungal groups to grow in oil or its derivatives was investigated. Two isolates, Aspergillus tubingensis FA-KSU5 and A. niger FU-KSU69, were utilized in two remediation experiments—one targeting wastewater and the other focusing on polluted soil. The FA-KSU5 strain demonstrated complete removal of Fe3+, As3+, Cr6+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Cu2+ and Cd2+, with bioremediation efficiency for petroleum hydrocarbons in the wastewater from these sites ranging between 90.80 and 98.58%. Additionally, the FU-KSU69 strain achieved up to 100% reduction of Co2+, Ba2+, B3+, V+, Ni2+, Pb2+ and Hg2+, with removal efficiency ranging from 93.17 to 96.02% for aromatic hydrocarbons after 180 min of wastewater treatment. After 21 days of soil incubation with Aspergillus tubingensis FA-KSU5, there was a 93.15% to 98.48% reduction in total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) and an 88.11% to 97.31% decrease in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This strain exhibited the highest removal rates for Cd2+ and As3+ followed by Fe3+, Zn2+, Cr6+, Se4+ and Cu2+. Aspergillus niger FU-KSU69 achieved a 90.37% to 94.90% reduction in TPHs and a 95.13% to 98.15% decrease in PAHs, with significant removal of Ni2+, Pb2+ and Hg2+, followed by Co2+, V+, Ba2+ and B3+. The enzymatic activity in the treated soils increased by 1.54- to 3.57-fold compared to the polluted soil. Although the mixture of wastewater and polluted soil exhibited high cytotoxicity against normal human cell lines, following mycoremediation, all treated soils and effluents with the dead fungal biomass showed no toxicity against normal human cell lines at concentrations up to 500 µL/mL, with IC50 values ≥ 1000 µL/mL. SEM and IR analysis revealed morphological and biochemical alterations in the biomass of A. tubingensis FA-KSU5 and A. niger FA-KSU69 when exposed to petroleum effluents. This study successfully introduces non-toxigenic and environmentally friendly fungal strains play a crucial role in the bioremediation of contaminated environments. Both strains serve as low-cost and effective adsorbents for bio-remediating petroleum wastewater and oil-contaminated soil. Heavy metals and hydrocarbons, the primary pollutants, were either completely removed or reduced to permissible levels according to international guidelines using the dead biomass of FA-KSU5 and FA-KSU69 fungi. Consequently, the environments associated with this globally significant industry are rendered biologically safe, particularly for humans, as evidenced by the absence of cytotoxicity in samples treated with A. tubingensis FA-KSU5 and A. niger FA-KSU69 on various human cell types. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study aimed to assess the heavy metal concentrations in water from different sampling sites of the Halda River, the only natural breeding ground of Indian major carps. Objectives: We have analysed the contamination level and seasonal variations of heavy metals (viz. Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr, Cd and Pb). The favourability of the breeding environment was assessed by different contamination indices. Methods: Samples were collected from six sampling sites for four different seasons, and the metal concentrations were determined for water samples using Flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results: The obtained order of mean concentrations of heavy metals for four seasons was winter > spring > monsoon > pre‐monsoon, and the assessed mean concentrations (mg/L) of heavy metals follow the trend: Fe (9.129) > Pb (0.033) > Zn (0.024) > Cr (0.017) > Cu (0.012) > Cd (0.002). The concentration of Fe was found above the permissible limit set by the World Health Organization (WHO) (Guidelines for Water Quality) and ECR (1997), and the concentrations for Pb were found above the USEPA (2006) limit in all four seasons. Contamination indices (heavy metal pollution Index [HPI] and metal index [MI]) indicate that during winter and monsoon, the river water metal condition is critical (HPI > 100) and the sites are moderately as well as slightly (1< MI <2) affected by the studied heavy metals. Contamination indices, such as contamination factors (Cf), degree of contamination (Cdeg) and the pollution load index (PLI), demonstrate the fact that Fe and Pb remarkably contaminated the studied sampling sites. The Pearson correlation matrix and the principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the studied metals are connected by their sources, which can be geological or anthropogenic. Conclusion: Urgent initiatives need to be taken, and effective strategies must be implemented to control the different sources responsible for the entry of heavy metals into the Halda River water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesized compound, 1-(2-ethoxyethyl)-4-(pent-1-yn-1-yl)piperidin-4-yl propionate (EPPP), and its 1:1 complex with β-cyclodextrin (EPPPβCD) have been characterized for the first time through a comprehensive suite of analytical methods. This study explores the therapeutic potential of EPPPβCD in modulating immune responses and accelerating the resolution of septic inflammation induced by chromium and vanadium ions in outbred male rats. The research highlights the significant impact of EPPPβCD on the dynamics of regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs), notably causing a reduction in the CD4+CD25+ fractions at the onset of inflammation. This effect is attributed to the inhibition of Treg proliferation, which is crucial in hastening the resolution of inflammation. These findings underscore the potential of EPPPβCD as a promising therapeutic agent in controlling and mitigating inflammation mediated by heavy metal exposure, thereby offering a new avenue for the development of anti-inflammatory treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-derived carbon dots (P-CDs) are gaining attention in environmental remediation due to their cost-effectiveness, availability, and lower toxicity compared with chemically synthesized carbon dots. This review comprehensively examines the recent advancements in the synthesis and application of P-CDs, with a particular emphasis on their efficacy in the sensing of heavy metals, which are among the most pervasive environmental contaminants. A detailed comparative analysis is presented by evaluating the performance of P-CDs against their chemically synthesized counterparts based on key parameters, such as optimal operating conditions and detection limits. Furthermore, sensing the potential of P-CDs towards every heavy metal ion has been discussed with in-depth mechanistic insights. Additionally, this review explores the industrial applications and future directions of P-CDs. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of -P-CDs for heavy metal sensing, aiming to enhance their sensitivity and selectivity toward heavy metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead are harmful pollutants that can change how our genes are regulated without altering the DNA sequence, specifically through a process called DNA methylation (DNAm) at 5-methylcytosine, an epigenetic mark that we will focus on in this review. These changes in DNAm are most sensitive during pregnancy, a critical time for development when these modifications can affect how traits are expressed. Historically, most research on these environmental effects has focused on adults, but now there is more emphasis on studying the impacts during early development and childhood. The placenta acts as a protective barrier between the mother and the baby, and by examining it, scientists can identify changes in key genes that might affect long-term health. This review looks at how exposure to heavy metals during pregnancy can cause changes in the gene regulation by DNAm in newborns, as seen in their umbilical cord blood. These changes reflect the baby's genetic state during pregnancy and can be influenced by the mother's environment and genetics, as well as the baby's own genetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based adsorbents like graphene and its derivatives, carbon nanotubes, activated carbon, and biochar are commonly used for removing heavy metals from water solutions. The changeable exterior functional groups of efficient carbon adsorbents for HMs are one of their key features. Detailed documentation of the synthesis and interactions of functionalized carbon adsorbents with metals in an aqueous solution is crucial for advancing the utilization of these materials in HM exclusion. This paper reviews the carbon-based adsorbent for material removal. It examines several carbon adsorbents' exterior functional groups to better understand how they eliminate HMs from aqueous solutions. First, the controlling mechanisms for the deletion of aqueous HMs by carbon adsorbents are described, with a particular emphasis on the functions of exterior functional groups. The following section lists and organises the numerous synthetic techniques that are frequently employed to add heteroatoms to carbon surfaces, particularly oxygen, nitrogen, and sulphur, to increase their exterior properties and their sorptive capabilities towards HMs in aqueous solutions. Following that, the impact of dissimilar functional groups on the adsorption characteristics of HMs on carbon adsorbents is examined. While the adsorption capacity and metal removal efficiency of the changed carbonaceous materials are high, the alteration operation is complicated, particularly chemical modification. This review analyses the shortcomings that are now present and offers ideas for future research while emphasising the removal of inorganic and organic components utilising carbon-based materials as adsorbents. In summary, there is room for additional study on the efficacy of functional carbon adsorbents for the removal of heavy metals and their potential uses in various fields. This includes the development of new materials and techniques to enhance adsorption efficiency and selectivity for specific heavy metals, along with the investigation of additional functionalities for these carbon adsorbents in various industrial processes. There is a need for continued innovation and collaboration in this field to address the growing concerns regarding heavy metal pollution and to explore the full capabilities of functional carbon adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weak polyelectrolyte chains are versatile polymeric materials due to the large number of functional groups that can be used in different environmental applications. Herein, one weak polycation (polyethyleneimine, PEI) and two polyanions (poly(acrylic acid), PAA, and poly(sodium methacrylate), PMAA) were directly deposited through precipitation of an inter-polyelectrolyte coacervate onto the silica surface (IS), followed by glutaraldehyde (GA) crosslinking and extraction of polyanions chains. Four core–shell composites based on silica were synthesized and tested for adsorption of lead (Pb2+) and nickel (Ni2+) as model pollutants in batch sorption experiments on the laboratory scale. The sorbed/desorbed amounts depended on the crosslinking degree of the composite shell, as well as on the type of anionic polyelectrolyte. After multiple loading/release cycles of the heavy metal ions, the maximum sorption capacities were situated between 5–10 mg Pb2+/g composite and 1–6 mg Ni2+/g composite. The strong crosslinked composites (r = 1.0) exhibited higher amounts of heavy metal ions (Me2+) sorbed than the less crosslinked ones, with less PEI on the surface but with more flexible chains being more efficient than more PEI with less flexible chains. Core–shell composites based on silica and weak polyelectrolytes could act as sorbent materials, which may be used in water or wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the properties of modified cementitious composites including water purification from heavy metal—zinc. A new method for characterizing the immobilization properties of tested modifiers was established. Several additions had their properties investigated: biochar (BC), active carbon (AC), nanoparticulate silica (NS), copper slag (CS), iron slag (EAFIS), crushed hazelnut shells (CHS), and lightweight sintered fly ash aggregate (LSFAA). The impact of modifiers on the mechanical and rheological properties of cementitious composites was also studied. It was found that considered additions had a significantly different influence over the investigated properties. The addition of crushed hazelnut shells, although determined as an effective immobilization modifier, significantly deteriorated the mechanical performance of the composite as well as its rheological properties. Modification by iron slag allowed for a significant increase in immobilization properties (five-fold compared to the reference series) without a substantial impact on other properties. The negative effect on immobilization efficiency was observed for nanoparticulate silica modification due to its sealing effect on the pore network of the cement matrix. The capillary pore content in the cement matrix was identified as a parameter significantly influencing the immobilization potential of most considered modifications, except biochar and active carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water pollution is caused by heavy metals, minerals, and dyes. It has become a global environmental problem. There are numerous methods for removing different types of pollutants from wastewater. Adsorption is viewed as the most promising and financially viable option. Nanostructured materials are used as effective materials for adsorption techniques to extract metal ions from wastewater. Many types of nanomaterials, such as zero-valent metals, metal oxides, carbon nanomaterials, and magnetic nanocomposites, are used as adsorbents. Magnetic nanocomposites as adsorbents have magnetic properties and abundant active functional groups, and unique nanomaterials endow them with better properties than nonmagnetic materials (classic adsorbents). Nonmagnetic materials (classic adsorbents) typically have limitations such as limited adsorption capacity, adsorbent recovery, poor selective adsorption, and secondary treatment. Magnetic nanocomposites are easy to recover, have strong selectivity and high adsorption capacity, are safe and economical, and have always been a hotspot for research. A large amount of data has been collected in this review, which is based on an extensive study of the synthesis, characterization, and adsorption capacity for the elimination of ions from wastewater and their separation from water. The effects of several experimental parameters on metal ion removal, including contact duration, temperature, adsorbent dose, pH, starting ion concentration, and ionic strength, have also been investigated. In addition, a variety of illustrations are used to describe the various adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherm models, providing insight into the adsorption process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are commonly found in a wide range of environmental settings metals, but the potential toxicity associated with heavy metal exposure represents a major threat to global public health. It is thus vital that approaches to efficiently, reliably, and effectively detecting heavy metals in a range of sample types be established. Carbon nanomaterials offer many advantageous properties that make them well-suited to the design of sensitive, selective, easy-to-operate electrochemical biosensors ideal for detecting heavy metal ions. The present review offers an overview of recent progress in the development of carbon nanomaterial-based electrochemical sensors used to detect heavy metals. In addition to providing a detailed discussion of certain carbon nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon fibers, carbon quantum dots, carbon nanospheres, mesoporous carbon, and Graphdiyne, we survey the challenges and future directions for this field. Overall, the studies discussed herein suggest that the further development of carbon nanomaterial-modified electrochemical sensors will support the integration of increasingly advanced sensor platforms to aid in detecting heavy metals in foods, environmental samples, and other settings, thereby benefitting human health and society as a whole. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study, a solid phase extraction (SPE) methodology utilizing sodium ferrite nanoparticles (Na2Fe4O7-NPs; SF-NPs) is presented for the simultaneous determination of heavy metals (HMs) via flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). SF-NPs were synthesized by an eco-friendly sol–gel auto-combustion method using Tamarindus indica fruit extract as a stabilizing agent. The characterized SF-NPs exhibited a high surface area with uniform distribution, high stability, and a negative surface charge, making it a promising material for excellent adsorption of HMs. The SF-NP-based SPE procedure involved optimizing parameters such as pH, adsorbent dosage, sample volume, eluent composition, volume, and concentration. The developed SF-NP-based SPE method demonstrated low detection limits, i.e., 0.006, 0.008, and 0.009 μg L−1 for the analysis of Cd, Cu, and Pb, respectively. The SF-NP-based SPE methodology was validated by examining certified reference material and real samples, yielding accurate results with good recoveries (>95%) with a relative standard deviation of <5.0%. The developed SF-NP-based SPE method offers a promising approach for the simultaneous determination of Cd, Cu, and Pb in water and food samples, providing an efficient and environmentally friendly analytical tool for monitoring heavy metal contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Message: Transgenic Crambe abyssinica lines overexpressing γ-ECS significantly enhance tolerance to and accumulation of toxic metal(loid)s, improving phytoremediation potential and offering an effective solution for contaminated soil management. Phytoremediation is an attractive environmental-friendly technology to remove metal(loid)s from contaminated soils and water. However, tolerance to toxic metals in plants is a critical limiting factor. Transgenic Crambe abyssinica lines were developed that overexpress the bacterial γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase (γ-ECS) gene to increase the levels of non-protein thiol peptides such as γ-glutamylcysteine (γ-EC), glutathione (GSH), and phytochelatins (PCs) that mediate metal(loid)s detoxification. The present study investigated the effect of γ-ECS overexpression on the tolerance to and accumulation of toxic As, Cd, Pb, Hg, and Cr supplied individually or as a mixture of metals. Compared to wild-type plants, γ-ECS transgenics (γ-ECS1-8 and γ-ECS16-5) exhibited a significantly higher capacity to tolerate and accumulate these elements in aboveground tissues, i.e., 76–154% As, 200–254% Cd, 37–48% Hg, 26–69% Pb, and 39–46% Cr, when supplied individually. This is attributable to enhanced production of GSH (82–159% and 75–87%) and PC2 (27–33% and 37–65%) as compared to WT plants under AsV and Cd exposure, respectively. The levels of Cys and γ-EC were also increased by 56–67% and 450–794% in the overexpression lines compared to WT plants under non-stress conditions, respectively. This likely enhanced the metabolic pathway associated with GSH biosynthesis, leading to the ultimate synthesis of PCs, which detoxify toxic metal(loid)s through chelation. These findings demonstrate that γ-ECS overexpressing Crambe lines can be used for the enhanced phytoremediation of toxic metals and metalloids from contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vesicular sequestration is a potential strategy for enhancing plant tolerance to cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As). In this study, the ectopic overexpression of yeast-derived ScSMF2 in Arabidopsis thaliana was found to enhance the accumulation and tolerance of Cd and As in transgenic plants. ScSMF2 was localized on vacuole membranes and formed puncta structures in plant cells when agro-infiltrated for transient expression. Transgenic Arabidopsis showed less retardation on root elongation and shoot weight and more accumulation of Cd, As (III) and As (V) when cultured on medium containing Cd or As. Overexpression of ScSMF2 promoted accumulation of Cd and arsenic in transgenic Arabidopsis, which were over twice higher than in WT plants when cultured in soil. This study provides insights into the mechanisms involved in the vesicular sequestration of heavy metals in plant and presents a potential strategy for enhancing the phytoremediation capacity of plants toward heavy metals. NOVELTY STATEMENT: Ectopic overexpression of the yeast Mn2+ transporter SMF2 in Arabidopsis thaliana substantially boosts the accumulation and tolerance to Cd and As in plants. This augmentation is attributed to the enhanced efficacy of intracellular vesicle sequestration, thereby bolstering the capacity of plants to sequester and detoxify these toxic heavy metals. This investigation introduces a potential approach for cultivating plants with improved phytoremediation capabilities, thereby advancing eco-friendly and sustainable remediation initiatives against heavy metal pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of residual antibiotics and the excessive accumulation of metals beyond permissible limits in milk represent significant health challenges. This study aimed to analyse the levels of heavy metals and trace elements in raw milk from Kurdistan province using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) following digestion via thermal block. Subsequently, the samples were evaluated for contamination with MRSA (methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus), taking into account the potential correlation between methicillin‐resistant strains and metal accumulation. Finally, milk safety was assessed based on the presence of toxic metals. A total of 180 milk samples were examined. Among them, 13.34% were found to be contaminated with S. aureus, and of those, 62.48% tested positive for MRSA. The metal concentrations (mg/kg) were measured as follows: arsenic 7 × 10−2 ± 6 × 10−3, cadmium 4.70 × 10−1 ± 9.70 × 10−2, lead 7 × 10−2 ± 5 × 10−3, mercury 3 × 10−2 ± 9 × 10−3 and iron 4 × 10−2 ± 9 × 10−3. Interestingly, arsenic, cadmium and iron levels were found to be correlated with the presence of MRSA. Additionally, there was an inverse relationship between toxic metals and essential ones in samples sensitive to methicillin (P < 0.001). The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) for cadmium is indicated at 9.94. Furthermore, the calculated Carcinogenic Risk (CR) parameters for cadmium and arsenic were 6.06 × 10−3 and 2.22 × 10−4, respectively, suggesting that their concentrations fall within the carcinogenic range. The coexistence of MRSA and metal contamination in raw milk highlights the potential risks linked to its consumption. Consequently, the adoption of rigorous hygiene protocols is imperative to effectively address these concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the interactions of carbon and metal pollutants in anthropogenically impacted rivers is a prerequisite for determining the relative fates of these stressors. Here, through two sets of studies, we report carbon–metal pollutant interactions choosing the CO2 emission and sediment microbial extracellular enzyme activities as major determinants. The study, conducted along a 520-km main river and along a point source trajectory, showed a TOC-dependent but metal pollution-constrained CO2 emission. We found significant relationships (p < 0.05–0.001) between CO2 emission flux and its determinants: TOC, Cmic, FDAase and β-D-glucosidase. In the point source trajectory, CO2 emission flux was closely synchronous to these determinants. These relationships, however, were significantly constrained at the sites such as Knuj, Jjmu and Rjht where the concentrations of total heavy metal (∑THM) in the sediment exceed 347.44 µg g−1 indicating that the heavy metal pollution counteracted the C processing and consequently the CO2 emission flux. The study suggests that the excessive load of metal pollutants will eventually interrupt the C-cycling in the Ganga River inviting caution in C budgeting and C transport to coastal ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potentially toxic metals in water threaten humans, animals, and the environment. The potential of Indian willow (Salix tetrasperma) leaves to biosorb copper and lead from water was examined. Utilising scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectrum analysis, the properties of Salix tetrasperma biomass (STB) was investigated. The maximum removal percentage (92.8% for copper and 89.9% for lead) was achieved at pH 5.0, a biosorbent dosage of 3.0 g/L at 25°C, and a 10 mg/L initial concentration of copper and lead. The determination of the point zero charge (pHzpc = 5.0) indicated the prevalence of a negative charge on the surface of the biosorbents. The kinetic equation utilised in the pseudo-second-order model effectively. Langmuir isotherm better described experimented data than the Freundlich model. The Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm provided a good fit for the study's equilibrium data. STB recorded an adsorption capacity, Qmax, of 43.99 mg/g for copper (II) and 39.66 mg/g for lead (II) ions at an optimum pH of 5. Thermodynamically, the biosorption of both ions on STB was spontaneous, endothermic, and feasible. The selected modified STB was found to be suitable for adsorbing copper (II) and lead (II) metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper demonstrates the characteristics of soil-like material extracted from the landfill mining activity at the Ariyamangalam dump yard, located in Tiruchirappalli city of southern India. The landfill mining waste was collected and characterised for contaminant potential, thereby its suitability for reuse applications offsite. Soil-like materials of size fractions finer than 2 mm have been assessed for their physico-chemical characteristics and compared the acceptability criterion with the drinking standard IS 10500: 2012. Total soluble solids and closely associated parameters have been determined in the water extract from soil-like materials and local soils and compared with the international regulatory standards for reuse acceptability. From the total heavy metal concentration of soil-like material and local soil, three different pollution indices, namely contamination ratio, geo-accumulation index, and enrichment factor, have been identified and categorised soil-like material as low contaminated for lead; low to moderately contaminated for chromium, nickel, and iron; moderately contaminated for manganese; and moderately to strongly contaminated for copper and zinc. The organic and moisture content of soil-like material was reported as 22 and 19.6%, whereas the local soil showed 2.4 and 1.5%, respectively. Due to its enormous organic content, soil-like materials pose as less efficient in utilising offsite applications without primary treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potential pollution risks and characteristics of heavy metal pollution in surface streams were assessed in a decommissioned uranium tailing. The results demonstrated that the concent of seven heavy metals in the tailing were comparatively high and were beyond the environmental quality standard limits of surface water. Correlation and enrichment factor studies demonstrated that mining operations were the main source of contamination. According to pollution evaluation indices, there was a high risk of contamination and notable enrichment and pollution features for Tl, Mo, Mn, U, and Al in the tailing. Ni and Cd were mildly contaminated and enriched. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

238U and 234U concentrations, 238U/234U ratios and Na, Ca, Mg, K, Al, As, Cd concentrations were measured in selected surface waters (streams, rivers and lakes), ground waters (dug wells) and underground waters (drill wells and thermal waters) in Quang Nam and Da Nang provinces, Central Vietnam. The mineralization was < 500 mg L−1 and Al, As, Cd contents were a few tenths of µg L−1. 234U and 238U activities were between 0.47–27.6 mBq L−1 and 0.6–15.0 mBq L−1 respectively, these values are lower than WHO recommended limits. Uranium contents trended as Urivers < Ustreams < Ulakes < Udig wells < Uthermal water < Udrill wells. The 234U/238U ratio ranged from 0.69 to 2.31 with 1.26 on average. For groundwaters, the ratio scattered around one. Effects of Nong Son uranium deposit located in Quang Nam region were not observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uranium is a highly hazardous heavy metal and radionuclide. The distribution of uranium in rock, soil, fruit, and water has been measured in the Balod area. Samples were collected using one square kilometer griding technique from Jhalmala Paragaon, Parsoda, Dewerbatt, Pakurbatt, and Jagarata Deur tarai. The distribution of uranium is quantified within the ranges of 0.7–3.6 (ppb) in soil, 0.5–4.4 ppb in rock, 0.2–52.6 ppb in groundwater, and 0.2–0.7 ppb in fruit.The presence and movement of uranium has been verified through a systematic statistical investigation, and its mobility in environmental components has been established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: Metal and metalloid exposures (hereafter "metals") are associated with adverse health outcomes, including type 2 diabetes; however, previous studies were largely cross-sectional or underpowered. Furthermore, underserved racial and ethnic groups are underrepresented in environmental health research despite having higher rates of type 2 diabetes and a greater risk of metal exposures. Consequently, we evaluated continuous glycemic traits in relation to baseline urinary toxic metal, essential metal, and metal mixtures in a cohort of Mexican American adults. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A total of 510 participants were selected based upon self-reported diabetes status and followed over 3 years. Urinary metals were assessed at baseline. Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate per-month changes in hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, and postload glucose in relation to urinary metal levels. Multiple statistical approaches were used to assess the associations between glycemic traits and metal mixtures. RESULTS: After adjustment, higher urinary levels of arsenic, selenium, copper, molybdenum, nickel, and tin were associated with faster increases in measures of glycemia. The toxic metal mixture composed of arsenic, lead, cadmium, nickel, and tin was associated with faster increases in postload glucose. Using postload glucose criteria, highest versus lowest arsenic was predicted to accelerate conversion of normoglycemia to prediabetes and diabetes by 23 and 65 months, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In this underrepresented, high-risk Mexican American population, exposure to toxic metals and alterations in essential metal homeostasis were associated with faster increases in glycemia over time that may accelerate type 2 diabetes development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) are the giant polymers composed of polysaccharides, proteins, nucleic and humic acid with remarkable applications. This study was aimed to evaluate the binding efficacies of two EPS extracted from cyanobacterial strains (Microsystis aeruginosa and Microsystis ichthyoblabe) with four heavy metal ions (lead, cadmium, copper, and zinc) using excitation-emission matrix (EEM) spectroscopy with the main focus on the fluorescence properties of protein present in each EPS. Characterization of EPS showed that they were composed of > 90% of organic contents with higher carbohydrates (59.54 and 60.72%) than proteins (26.49% and 30.2%) and lower humic acid contents (8.29% and 6.96%). The amino acids profile revealed tryptophan at maximum (6.28% in EPS-A and 4.26% in EPS-I) followed by tyrosine (5.05% in EPS-A and 3.47% in EPS-I), glutamic acid (4.14% in EPS-A and 2.74% in EPS-I), leucine (3.92% in EPS-A and 2.82% in EPS-I) and phenylalanine (3.14% in EPS-A and 1.97% in EPS-I). The percentages of amino acids recorded were higher in EPS-A than EPS-I. A fluorescence peak at 280/350 nm (Ex/Em) was identified in the fluorescence spectrum for each EPS using EEM spectroscopy. Quenching experiments showed gradual decrease in EPS fluorescence intensity with increased metal concentration due to EPS-metal association. The Stern–Volmer plot displayed static quenching mechanism of metals in deactivating EPS fluorophores. Pb(II) and Cd(II) displayed superior quenching at 50 mg/L whereas Zn(II) and Cu(II) indicated lower quenching at 100 mg/L. The binding potencies of EPS from cyanobacteria with metal ions is a potential green biotechnological approach for toxic metals remediation from aqueous medium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to toxic metals and metalloids is a significant public health concern and can seriously affect human health. The aim of this study was to establish the presence of toxic metals and metalloids in the urine of non‐professional sportsmen who participated in a mountain ultramarathon using a benchtop total reflection x‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) system. TXRF allows for easy and rapid sample preparation and is therefore a potential candidate for simple and cost‐effective analysis. In this work, the TXRF‐Mo system was used for multielement analysis of the urine samples of 21 non‐professional athletes who ran a 53 km mountain ultra‐marathon. Urine samples were collected at four time points, at the beginning of the race (pre‐race samples), immediately, and 12 and 24 h post‐race. Al, As, Ba, Ni, Pb, Rb, Sr, V, and Tl were detected in the collected urine samples. The accuracy and precision of the proposed methods were verified by the analysis of reference materials (Seronorm™ Trace Elements Urine Level 2). The TXRF results were in agreement with the reference values and no significant differences were observed at the 95% confidence level. The detection limits for the elements of interest were also reasonable considering their concentration ranges in real samples. Changes were observed over time with increasing average urinary metals and metalloids levels, but only two significant results, were an increase in As and Rb. The results indicate a high degree of inter‐subject variability. The results obtained show that the content of toxic metals and metalloids increases in the urine samples collected after the race, which could confirm the statement that physical activity can increase the excretion of toxic metals and metalloids from the body. The simplicity of the TXRF method as well as its fast performance make it suitable for routine analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portable X‐Ray Fluorescence (XRF) has become increasingly popular where traditional laboratory methods are either impractical, time consuming, and/or too costly. While the Limit of Detection (LOD) is generally poorer for XRF compared to laboratory‐based methods, recent advances have improved XRF LODs and increased its potential for field‐based studies. Portable XRF can be used to screen food products for toxic elements such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), manganese, (Mn), zinc (Zn), and strontium (Sr). In this study, 23 seafood samples were analyzed using portable XRF in a home setting. After XRF measurements were completed in each home, the same samples were transferred to the laboratory for re‐analysis using microwave‐assisted digestion and Inductively Coupled Plasma Tandem Mass Spectrometry (ICP‐MS/MS). Four elements (Mn, Sr, As, and Zn) were quantifiable by XRF in most samples, and those results were compared to those obtained by ICP‐MS/MS. Agreement was judged reasonable for Mn, Sr, and As, but not for Zn. Discrepancies could be due to (1) the limited time available to prepare field samples for XRF, (2) the heterogeneous nature of "real samples" analyzed by XRF, and (3) the small beam spot size (~1 mm) of the XRF analyzer. Portable XRF is a cost‐effective screening tool for public health investigations involving exposure to toxic metals. It is important for practitioners untrained in XRF spectrometry to (1) recognize the limitations of portable instrumentation, (2) include validation data for each specific analyte(s) measured, and (3) ensure personnel have some training in sample preparation techniques for field‐based XRF analyses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress of Lake Baikal organisms can be caused by pollution of nearshore with anionic surfactants or heavy metals. Some specific heavy metals are essential for aquatic organisms. At present, there are no data concerning heavy metal content caused by anthropogenic pollution or chemotaxonomic features of Baikal sponges. Here, we consider the applicability of total reflection x‐ray fluorescence (TXRF) to analyze heavy metals in Lubomirskia baikalensis to fill this gap. It was shown that TXRF method can be successfully applied to the fast and reliable quantification of Cu, Zn, Fe, and Mn in this object. Evaluation of different sample treatment procedures showed that the acid digestion by HNO3/H2O2 mixture is an optimal procedure for the preparation of sponges compared with suspension preparation. It helps to improve sensitivity, eliminate the effects of particle size and specimen heterogeneity. The total uncertainty of the TXRF results associated with the sample preparation, taking, depositing, and measuring of the specimen was 6%–18% for Mn, 3%–5% for Cu, 5%–12% for Fe, and 4%–5% for Zn. To validate the developed method, the TXRF results were compared with the data obtained by wavelength dispersive x‐ray fluorescence spectrometry. A good agreement of results was achieved. TXRF data show the dominance of essential heavy metals in L. baikalensis (n = 14) among other heavy metals. Correlations between Cu/Zn contents (R2 = 0.515) as well as between Fe/Mn contents (R2 = 0.972) can be explained by the contribution of them to L. baikalensis antioxidant system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Metal contamination in rice grains is a critical global issue, posing serious health risks and affecting food safety, especially in countries like Malaysia where rice is a staple food. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of various cooking treatments, with a focus on parboiling before absorption cooking (PBA), in reducing metal contamination in Malaysian rice. Metal levels were measured using tandem inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS/MS), and health risks were assessed following USEPA guidelines. Parboiling before absorption cooking was found to eliminate 77.9% of toxic metals and 68.4% of essential metals while keeping arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) concentrations below permissible limits. Deterministic health risk assessment indicated that PBA reduced hazard index by 84.5% and lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) from As exposure by 88.9%. Hazard quotient for nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn) remained acceptable for all age groups except for As in children, where LCR exceeded permissible limits. Monte Carlo simulations revealed that over 95% of individuals across age groups faced unacceptable non‐carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks from As exposure, regardless of cooking method. In conclusion, PBA effectively lowered metal concentrations and health risks, especially for toxic metals in rice. Future studies could enhance risk assessment accuracy by analysing metal bioavailability and speciation of metals particularly As. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The use of black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) to valorise different organic waste streams and the subsequent use of resulting larvae as a feedstock ingredient is increasing rapidly in several regions across the globe. The lack of knowledge about several safety issues including chemical contaminants (e.g. heavy metals) seems to affect the upscaling and commercialisation of this product. This study evaluates the safety of the BSFL against chemical contaminants including heavy metals and mycotoxins in both BSFL and frass samples reared with different food waste streams (e.g. soy waste, customised bread‐vegetable diet, food waste mixture, supermarket and childcare centre) from two commercial production facilities. The effect of larval instars and post‐harvest treatments (e.g. blanching and drying) on the safety of the BSFL was also investigated. The concentration of heavy metals was primarily influenced by the concentration in the food waste streams. The concentration was also higher in 6th instar compared to 5th instar larvae. The effect of blanching and drying have a varied effect on the concentration of heavy metals. Mycotoxins were found to be below the limit of quantification for all samples. The outcomes of this study indicated that BSFL grown on food waste streams and the resulting frass is safe against different heavy metals analysed. The findings of this study will assist the commercial BSFL manufacturers with the identification of relevant control points to ensure the chemical safety of their products. Therefore, encourage the use of different food waste streams as feedstock for rearing BSFL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effect assessments of metals are mostly based on single‐metal, single‐species tests, thereby ignoring metal‐mixture effects and indirect effects through species interactions. We tested the combined effects of metal and species interactions in two‐trophic algal–daphnid microcosms. Metal‐mixture effects on daphnid communities may propagate from effects on the generally more sensitive algal communities. Four different algal communities (three species each), with and without addition of the same daphnid community (three species) were exposed to single metals and one metal mixture (17:17:51 µg/L Ni:Cu:Zn). Daphnid densities were negatively affected by metals in the two‐trophic test, the magnitude of which depended on the algal community composition. Algal densities were overall positively affected by the metals in the two‐trophic test but negatively in the single‐trophic test, illustrating an indirect positive effect in the two‐trophic system due to a reduced grazing pressure. Metal effects on daphnid communities in the two‐trophic test (day 21) were correlated with metal effects on the single‐trophic–level algal communities during exponential growth (R2 = 0.55, p = 0.0011). This finding suggests that metal effects propagate across trophic levels due to a reduced food quantity. However, the indirect positive effects on algal densities, resulting in abundant food quantity, suggests that metal effects can also propagate to daphnids due to a reduced food quality (not measured directly). Metal‐mixture interactions on daphnid densities varied during exposure, but were additive or antagonistic relative to independent action when final daphnid densities were considered (day 56). This suggests stronger indirect effects of the mixture compared with the single metals. Overall, our study highlights the dynamic aspect of community‐level effects, which empirical reference models such as independent action or concentration addition cannot predict. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2350–2364. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Heavy metals (HM) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposition has been associated with health problems. Therefore, this research evaluated genotoxicity induced in male mice strain CD-1 exposed to benzo[a]anthracene (B[a]A) and benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) and their interaction with Fe, Pb, and Al. Methods: Groups of animals were exposed intraperitoneally to HM, PAHs, and mixtures of both. Peripheral blood samples were taken from 0 to 96 h at 24 h intervals; genotoxicity was determined by micronucleus tests and comet assay. Additionally, toxicity and viability were evaluated. Results: HM and PAHs individually were genotoxic. About toxicity, only Al altered polychromatic erythrocytes number and did not change leukocytes viability. Concerning mixtures, Fe + B[a]P, Fe + B[a]A, Pb + B[a]P increased genotoxicity. There were no changes with Pb + B[a]A. Finally, Al mixtures with both PAHs damage was decreased. Conclusions: Exposure to HM and PAH caused genetic damage. Fe, Al, and B[a]A, established a genotoxic potential. Every metal can interact with PAHs in different ways. Also, the micronucleus test and the comet assay demonstrated their high capacity and reliability to determine the genotoxic potential of the compounds evaluated in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, 5‐ferrocenyl‐dipyrromethane (Fc‐DPM) synthesized from the pyrrole and ferrocenecarboxaldehyde condensation was electrochemically deposited on a gold (Au) electrode and used to remove metal ions found in rural waters. The structural analysis of Fc‐DPM was recorded by means of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. The Fc‐DPM was electrochemically coated on an indium tin oxide‐polyethylene terephthalate (ITO‐PET) surface, and the resulting Fc‐DPM/ITO‐PET was characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM)–energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis. The heavy metal and mineral content of four real water samples from the same rural area were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) before and after electrochemical removal. The proposed Fc‐DPM/Au electrode was successfully applied for aluminum ion (Al3+) and barium ion (Ba2+) removal for the first time, and the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated as 0.003 and 0.217 ppb for Ba2+ and Al3+, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global environmental problems, especially those related to water contamination brought on by rapid industrialization and economic growth, are among the most dangerous threats facing humanity today. In this research work, Al3+ based metal–organic framework with 1,4‐benzenedicarboxylic acid (H2BDC) linker has been synthesized by a simple and economic coprecipitation method. The obtained Al‐BDC MOF was utilized as an adsorbent for sequestering iron from wastewater, but only 54.0% of iron concentration was eliminated after 120 min. To boost the removal efficiency, modification of the Al‐BDC MOF was carried out. MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite was prepared and applied as a nanoadsorbent for iron remediation from water. The adsorption capability of Al‐BDC MOF was greatly enhanced by facile modification. The adsorption efficiency reached 97.0% using 35.0 mg of the nanocomposite after 120 min compared to 54.0% iron removal using the un‐modified MOF. The effect of pH of the medium was then studied using MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite. The best elimination efficacy of iron was accomplished at pH ~ 2.2. The adsorption of iron on the surface of MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite attains 97.0% (120 min) using a 35.0 mg dose of adsorbent and reaches 98.7% utilizing a 50.0 mg dose of adsorbent. In contrast, at pH = 9.2, the removal efficiency drops to 90.0% (after 120 min, 35.0 mg adsorbent). The adsorption capability was examined also using a variety of iron concentrations, i.e., 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 mg/L where the adsorption efficiency dropped notably upon increasing the concentration. It dropped from 96.3% to 87.0% using 35.0 mg of MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite at 90 min. The newly developed adsorbent showed a pronounced efficiency for Fe3+ removal against real samples collected from different water sources. Ultimately, this research introduces a novel MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite, synthesized through a simple and economical coprecipitation method, to address water contamination by iron. The innovation lies in the significant enhancement of iron elimination efficiency, from 54.0% with unmodified Al‐BDC MOF to 97.0% with the MnO2@Al‐BDC nanocomposite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beup RA, Felongco SGE, Cailin SJC, Guanzon Jr NG, Fantonalgo RN, Pakingking Jr RV. 2024. Assessing the levels of heavy metals Cd, Cr, and Pb in the naturally occurring red seaweed Gracilariopsis heteroclada in Iloilo Province, Philippines, for potential mass cultivation. Nusantara Bioscience 16: 149-153. The Philippines, a leading exporter of seaweed, has incorporated strategies in its Philippine Industry Seaweed Roadmap (2022-2026) to boost seaweed production. Therefore, to achieve this, potential sites for seaweed cultivation must undergo assessment for heavy metal content. A pilot study assessed heavy metals Cd, Cr, and Pb levels in red seaweed (Gracilariopsis heteroclada) sourced from three locations in Iloilo Province, Philippines: Site 1, a fishpond in Brgy, Nabitasan, Leganes; Site 2, along Dumangas Port coastline in Brgy, Sapao, Dumangas; and Site 3, a fishpond in Brgy, Talokgangan, Banate. Flame atomic absorption spectrometry was employed to analyze heavy metal concentrations. The mean concentrations of Pb in G. heteroclada from Sites 1, 2, and 3 were 5.0129±0.0896, 5.0388±0.8749, and 3.5119±0.9262 mg/kg, respectively; for Cr, they were 3.3002±0.1436, 4.0464±0.3800, and 2.8027±0.1436 mg/kg, respectively. The mean Cd concentrations were also 0.8518±0.0349, 0.8115±0.0202, and 0.5423±0.0419 mg/kg, respectively. Although Cd levels met safety standards, Pb and Cr concentrations exceeded the maximum permissible levels set by the European Union (EU) and China Food and Drug Administration (CFDA), respectively. This suggests that the examined sites may not be suitable for large-scale cultivation due to potential health risks from Pb and Cr exposure through seaweed consumption. Continued monitoring of toxic metal levels in these areas is therefore imperative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal Cd2+ can easily be accumulated by fungi, causing significant stress, with the fungal cell membrane being one of the primary targets. However, the understanding of the mechanisms behind this stress remains limited. This study investigated the changes in membrane lipid molecules of Pleurotus ostreatus mycelia under Cd2+ stress and the antagonistic effect of Ca2+ on this stress. Cd2+ in the growth media significantly inhibited mycelial growth, with increasing intensity at higher concentrations. The addition of Ca2+ mitigated this Cd2+-induced growth inhibition. Lipidomic analysis showed that Cd2+ reduced membrane lipid content and altered lipid composition, while Ca2+ counteracted these changes. The effects of both Cd2+ and Ca2+ on lipids are dose dependent and phosphatidylethanolamine appeared most affected. Cd2+ also caused a phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylethanolamine ratio increase at high concentrations, but Ca2+ helped maintain normal levels. The acyl chain length and unsaturation of lipids remained unaffected, suggesting Cd2+ doesn't alter acyl chain structure of lipids. These findings suggest that Cd2+ may affect the growth of mycelia by inhibiting the synthesis of membrane lipids, particular the synthesis of phosphatidylethanolamine, providing novel insights into the mechanisms of Cd2+ stress in fungi and the role of Ca2+ in mitigating the stress. • Cd2+ in growth media inhibits mycelial growth, with stronger effects at higher concentrations. • Ca2+ mitigates Cd2+-induced growth inhibition in mycelium in a dose-dependent manner. • Cd2+ reduces membrane lipids and alters lipid composition, while Ca2+ counteracts the changes. • Phosphatidylethanolamine is most affected, the acyl chains of eight classes remain unaffected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study assessed the heavy metal pollution in sediment samples collected from the Noyyal River basin (river and lake sediments) during the monsoon and summer seasons. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) categorizes metals as extremely polluted during monsoon and heavily contaminated to extremely contaminated during summer. The enrichment factor (EF) of metals Mn during monsoon and Cd during summer indicates extremely severe enrichment (EF > 50) and Mo exhibited very high contamination (CF > 6) throughout the basin during monsoon. The average risk index of heavy metal in the basin followed the order Cd (164.15) > Ni (14.82) > Co (4.84) > Cr (2.55) > Cu (1.89) > Zn (1.38) > Mn (0.40) during monsoon and Cd (153.07) > Ni (7.96) > Cu (5.13) > Co (4.63) > Cr (1.89) > Zn (1.21) > Mn (0.3) during summer showing that the PERI of each element was minimal except for Cd. Adverse health-related effects are confirmed by the cumulative total hazard index (THI) for children with HQ ingestion and HI values >1 in all sample locations over both seasons. Principal component and cluster analysis show metals accumulate in sediments mainly through industrial wastewater discharge and also experience significant natural source weathering through rainfall runoff. This research emphasizes the need for enhanced wastewater treatment facilities in metropolitan areas situated along the Noyyal River to potentially reduce the release of heavy metals from both domestic and industrial sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]