Search

This study evaluated how the variation in different sorption conditions of beryllium (Be) in soil-water systems (electrolytes; ionic strengths; competing, counter, and co-existing ions; concentrations of Be and soil; and temperature) affected Be's environmental behaviour. For this reason, potentially contaminated soil was collected from a legacy waste site near Sydney, Australia. The sorption-desorption plateau for Be was found at12.5 g L

Factors influencing the desorption, distribution, and vertical migration behavior of Be in contaminated soils are not fully understood. This study examined the desorption and migration of Be in a soil profile from a legacy radioactive waste disposal site using different batch leaching [monofilled waste extraction procedure (MWEP); synthetic precipitation leaching procedure (SPLP); simulated acid rain solution (SARS); and toxicity characteristic leaching procedure] and sequential leaching [community bureau of reference (BCR)] methods for insights relevant to the application of risk-based management. The results showed that Be desorption was higher in the presence of organic than the inorganic leachate composition (MWEP < SPLP < SARS < TCLP < BCR first-step). The desorption followed three diffusion control mechanisms, which resulted in three desorption rate constant estimates of 157, 87.1, and 40.4 Be/kg.h0.5, and the estimated desorption maximum was 556 μg/kg. The desorption process was, spontaneous (ΔG > 0), enthalpically and entropically influenced. Increasing the incubation period and heat treatment resulted in a decrease of Be desorption and migration. The soil clay content and pH were the primary factors influencing Be desorption, and the results suggested that Be was desorbed from metal oxyhydroxides and surfaces of silicates (e.g., reactive surfaces of clay minerals), organic matters, and soil pores. Because of high Kd values, the mobility of Be was limited, and no exceedances of ecological or human health risk index or guidelines were determined for the current contamination levels at the site. However, Be released from the waste trenches has the ongoing potential to increase Be concentration in the soil.

Antimony (Sb) is increasingly being recognized as an important contaminant due to its various industrial applications and mining operations. Environmental remediation approaches for Sb are still lacking, as is the understanding of Sb environmental chemistry. In this study, biosolid biochar (BSBC) was produced and utilized to remove antimonate (Sb(V)) from aqueous solution. Zirconium (Zr), Zirconium-iron (Zr–Fe) and Fe–O coated BSBC were synthesized for enhancing Sb(V) sorption capacities of BSBC. The combined results of specific surface area, FTIR, SEM–EDS, TEM–EDS, and XPS confirmed that Zr and/or Zr–Fe were successfully coated onto BSBC. The effects of reaction time, pH, initial Sb(V) concentration, adsorbate doses, ionic strength, temperature, and the influence of major competitive co-existing anions and cations on the adsorption of Sb(V) were investigated. The maximum sorption capacity of Zr–O, Zr–Fe, Zr–FeCl3, Fe–O, and FeCl3 coated BSBC were 66.67, 98.04, 85.47, 39.68, and 31.54 mg/g respectively under acidic conditions. The XPS results revealed redox transformation of Sb(V) species to Sb(III) occurred under oxic conditions, demonstrating the biochar’s ability to behave as an electron shuttle during sorption. The sorption study suggests that Zr–O and Zr–O–Fe coated BSBC could perform as favourable adsorbents for mitigating Sb(V) contaminated waters.

Composting is very robust and efficient for the biodegradation of organic waste; however secondary pollutants, namely greenhouse gases (GHGs) and odorous emissions, are environmental concerns during this process. Biochar addition to compost has attracted the interest of scientists with a lot of publication in recent years because it has addressed this matter and enhanced the quality of compost mixture. This review aims to evaluate the role of biochar during organic waste composting and identify the gaps of knowledge in this field. Moreover, the research direction to fill knowledge gaps was proposed and highlighted. Results demonstrated the commonly referenced conditions during composting mixed biochar should be reached such as pH (6.5-7.5), moisture (50-60%), initial C/N ratio (20-25:1), biochar doses (1-20% w/w), improved oxygen content availability, enhanced the performance and humification, accelerating organic matter decomposition through faster microbial growth. Biochar significantly decreased GHGs and odorous emissions by adding a 5-10% dosage range due to its larger surface area and porosity. On the other hand, with high exchange capacity and interaction with organic matters, biochar enhanced the composting performance humification (e.g., formation humic and fulvic acid). Biochar could extend the thermophilic phase of composting, reduce the pH value, NH

Arsenic (As) is a dangerous contaminant in drinking water which displays cogent health risks to humans. Effective clean-up approaches must be developed. However, the knowledge of adsorption–desorption behavior of As on modified biochars is limited. In this study, the adsorption–desorption behavior of arsenate (AsV) by single iron (Fe) and binary zirconium–iron (Zr–Fe)-modified biosolid biochars (BSBC) was investigated. For this purpose, BSBC was modified using Fe-chips (FeBSBC), Fe-salt (FeCl3BSBC), and Zr–Fe-salt (Zr–FeCl3BSBC) to determine the adsorption–desorption behavior of AsV using a range of techniques. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results revealed the partial reduction of pentavalent AsV to the more toxic trivalent AsIII form by FeCl3BSBC and Zr–FeCl3BSBC, which was not observed with FeBSBC. The Langmuir maximum AsV adsorption capacities were achieved as 27.4, 29.77, and 67.28 mg/g when treated with FeBSBC (at pH 5), FeCl3BSBC (at pH 5), and Zr–FeCl3BSBC (at pH 6), respectively, using 2 g/L biochar density and 22 ± 0.5 °C. Co-existing anions reduced the AsV removal efficiency in the order PO43– > CO32– > SO42– > Cl– > NO3–, although no significant inhibitory effects were observed with cations like Na+, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, and Al3+. The positive correlation of AsV adsorption capacity with temperature demonstrated that the endothermic process and the negative value of Gibbs free energy increased (−14.95 to −12.47 kJ/mol) with increasing temperature (277 to 313 K), indicating spontaneous reactions. Desorption and regeneration showed that recycled Fe-chips, Fe-salt, and Zr–Fe-salt-coated biochars can be utilized for the effective removal of AsV up to six-repeated cycles.

This paper summarises a study of the application of the synthetic chelate ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and the natural chelates ethylenediamine-N,N-disuccinic acid (EDDS) and nitrilotriacetate (NTA) to enhance ryegrass uptake of the heavy metal(oid)s (HMs) (As, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn) from contaminated soils in mining sites. The study compares the effects of these chelates (EDTA, EDDS and NTA) on the phytoavailability of HMs (As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn) using ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) through the single addition and sequential addition methods. The results show that application of EDTA, EDDS and NTA significantly increases ryegrass’s (Lolium multiflorum) shoot uptake of some HMs when compared with no EDTA, EDDS or NTA application, particularly through sequential chelate treatment (EDTA 0.5:1 + 0.5:1; NTA 0.5:1 + 0.5:1; EDDS 0.5:1 + 0.5:1). EDTA 0.5:1 + 0.5:1 was more effective at increasing the concentration of Pb in shoots than were the other chelates (EDDS and NTA) and controls. Moreover, the concentrations of Zn in the shoots of ryegrass in LH significantly increased with the application of split dose (0.5:1 + 0.5:1). The plants displayed symptoms of toxicity including yellow and necrotic leaves at the end of the experiment. The selected chelates (EDTA, EDDS and NTA) led to a significant decrease in plant biomass (yield) 28 days after transfer with a maximum decrease in EDTA treatment (0.5:1 + 0.5:1) soils. This decrease was 3.43-fold in HT, 3-fold in LH and 1.59-fold, respectively, relative to the control. HM concentration and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in pore water, provided an explanation for why fresh weight was significantly reduced with application of chelates in sequential dose (EDTA 0.5:1 + 0.5:1 and NTA 0.5:1 + 0.5:1).

In this study, we examined factors influencing the environmental behaviour of Be, specifically considering soils collected from a legacy radioactive waste disposal site near Sydney (Australia). The precipitation study showed the formation of Be(OH)

This paper summarises a study of the application of the synthetic chelate ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), and the natural chelates ethylenediamine-N,N'-disuccinic acid (EDDS) and nitrilotriacetate (NTA) to enhance ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) uptake of the heavy metal(oid)s (HMs) (As, Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn) from contaminated soils in mining sites. The study compares the effects of these chelates (EDTA, EDDS and NTA) on the phytoavailability of HMs (As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn) using ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) through the single addition and sequential addition methods. The results show that application of EDTA, EDDS and NTA significantly increases ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.)'s shoot uptake of some HMs when compared with no EDTA, EDDS or NTA application, particularly through sequential chelate treatment (EDTA 0.5:1+0.5:1; NTA 0.5:1+0.5:1; EDDS 0.5:1+0.5:1). EDTA 0.5:1+0.5:1 was more effective at increasing the concentration of Pb in shoots than were the other chelates (EDDS and NTA) and controls. Moreover, the concentrations of Zn in the shoots of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) in Hich Village significantly increased with the application of split dose (0.5:1+0.5:1). The plants displayed symptoms of toxicity including yellow and necrotic leaves at the end of the experiment. The selected chelates (EDTA, EDDS and NTA) led to a significant decrease in plant biomass (yield) 28 days after transfer with a maximum decrease in EDTA treatment (0.5:1+0.5:1) soils. This decrease was 3.43-fold in Ha Thuong, 3-fold in Hich Village and 1.59-fold in Trai Cau, respectively, relative to the control. HM concentration and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in pore water provided an explanation for why fresh weight was significantly reduced with application of chelates in sequential dose (EDTA 0.5:1+0.5:1 and NTA 0.5:1+0.5:1).

Understanding the transport behaviour of arsenic (As) from soils to humans is critical when undertaking human health risk assessment and contamination control. This research examined As bioaccessibility in different As fractions and particle size fractions of As-enriched mine soils using different extractions. Bioaccessibility of As ranged from 0.24% to 32% for Solubility Bioaccessibility Research Consortium (SBRC) and Physiologically Based Extraction Test (PBET) methods, with extractable As (using 0.43 M HNO3) being 1.3–24.9%. The highest As bioaccessibility (19–32%) was consistently observed in the fine particle size fraction (

This study examined the influence of soil physicochemical properties on the sorption, desorption and kinetics of beryllium (Be) uptake and release on soils from a legacy waste site in Australia. This information is needed to help explain the current distribution of Be at the site and evaluate potential future environmental risks. Sorption was determined by a batch study and key soil properties were assessed to explain Be retention. The soil was favourable for sorption of Be (up to 99%) due to organic content, negative surface charge, soil oxyhydroxides (Fe/Al/Mn–O/OH) and the porosity of the soil structure. Lesser sorption was observed in the presence of a background electrolyte (NaNO3). Sorption closely followed pseudo second order kinetics and was best described by the Langmuir model. FTIR analysis suggested that chemisorption was the predominant mechanism of Be sorption. Desorption was very low and best described by the Freundlich model. The low desorption reflected the high Kd (up to 6624 L/kg), and the presence of hysteresis suggested partially irreversible binding of Be with active surfaces of the soil matrix (minerals, SOM, oxyhydroxides of Fe/Al/Mn etc.). Intra-particle diffusion of Be and entrapment in the pores contribute to the irreversible binding. The sorption behaviour of Be helped to explain the relative immobility of Be at the site despite the significant quantities of Be disposed. Soil physicochemical properties were significant for Be sorption, through influencing both the uptake and desorption, and this demonstrates the implications of these measurements for evaluating potential future risks to the environment.

IntroductionOlder patients undergoing cancer surgery are at increased risk of post-operative complications, prolonged hospital stay, and mortality. Identification of frailty can help predict patients at high risk of peri-operative complications and allow a collaborative, multidisciplinary team approach to their care. A survey was conducted to assess the confidence and knowledge of trainees in obstetrics and gynecology regarding identification and management of peri-operative issues encountered in frail gynecological oncology patients.MethodsA web-based survey was distributed via the Audit and Research in Gynaecological Oncology (ARGO) collaborative and UK Audit and Research Collaborative in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (UKARCOG) . The survey on the management of frail peri-operative patients was disseminated to doctors-in-training (trainees) working in obstetrics and gynecology in the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland. Specialty (ST1–7), subspecialty, and general practice trainees, non-training grade doctors, and foundation year doctors currently working in obstetrics and gynecology were eligible. Consultants were excluded. Study data were collected using REDCAP software hosted at the University of Manchester. Responses were collected over a 6-week period between January and February 2020.ResultsOf the 666 trainees who participated, 67% (425/666) reported inadequate training in peri-operative management of frail patients. Validated frailty assessment tools were used by only 9% (59/638) of trainees and less than 1% (4/613) were able to correctly identify all the diagnostic features of frailty. Common misconceptions included the use of chronological age and gender in frailty assessments. The majority of trainees (76.5%, 448/586) correctly answered a series of questions relating to mental capacity; however, only 6% (36/606) were able to correctly identify all three diagnostic features of delirium. A total of 87% (495/571) of trainees supported closer collaboration with geriatricians and a multidisciplinary approach.ConclusionsObstetrics and gynecology trainees reported inadequate training in the peri-operative care of frail gynecological oncology patients, and overwhelmingly favored input from geriatricians. Routine use of validated frailty assessment tools may aid diagnosis of frailty in the peri-operative setting. There is an unmet need for formal education in the management of frail surgical patients within the UK and Irish obstetrics and gynecology curriculum.

Pollution of shooting range soils by lead from bullets represents a widespread and potentially significant concern for impact on the environment. High concentrations of lead in particular are reported in bullet impact berms and shot fall zones. The other components of bullets used in shooting including antimony, copper and zinc may also be present at elevated concentrations. Antimony is a concern due to its mobility in the environment. It has been recognised that the status of contamination is important for the risk presented by shooting ranges. Lead bullets are subject to weathering in the soil, forming secondary minerals, which may be solubilised and may release lead and co-contaminants into the soil. The mobility and availability of contaminants in the soil affect their potential for spreading in the environment and for uptake and toxicity in organisms. Soil physicochemical properties affect bullet weathering and availability of contaminants in the soil. A number of strategies have been researched for management of shooting range pollution such as chemical stabilisation, phytoremediation and soil washing. This review considers the current state of knowledge and research of contamination and management of shooting ranges from recent literature (2014–2017) reflecting on new knowledge and novel management strategies for shooting range soil management. Ultimately, management of pollution in shooting range soils should seek to remove bullets from soil, reduce the weathering of bullets and reduce the mobility and bioavailability of contaminants. Adopted management practices should be based an understanding of site-specific condition, to achieve the most optimal outcome.

A novel biochar metal oxide composite was synthesized for effective removal of arsenate (As(V)) from aqueous solution. The materials synthesized for As(V) removal was based on a biosolid-derived biochar (BSBC) impregnated with zirconium (Zr) and zirconium-iron (Zr-Fe). The synthesized materials were comprehensively characterized with a range of techniques including Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET-N2) surface area, zeta potential, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results confirmed that loading of Zr and Zr-Fe onto the biochar surface was successful. The influence of pH, biochar density, ionic strength, As(V) dose rate, major anions and cations on As(V) removal was also investigated. Under all pH and reaction conditions the Zr-Fe composite biochar removed the greatest As(V) from solution of the materials tested. The maximum sorption capacity reached 15.2 mg/g for pristine BSBC (pH 4.0), while modified Zr-BSBC and Zr-FeBSBC composites achieved 33.1 and 62.5 mg/g (pH 6), respectively. The thermodynamic parameters (Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy) suggested that the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic. The ZrBSBC and Zr-FeBSBC showed excellent reusability and stability over four cycles. Unmodified biochar resulted in partial reduction of As(V) under oxic conditions, whilst modified biochars did not influence the oxidation state of As. All results demonstrated that the Zr and Zr-Fe BSBC composites could perform as promising adsorbents for efficient arsenate removal from natural waters.

Purpose: A risk-based approach commonly applied for Pb-contaminated soil is stabilisation by phosphate amendment. However, the proportion of Pb present in a form that is readily immobilised by phosphate addition is often limited. Chelates were examined as a means to mobilise Pb prior to immobilisation to increase the proportion of Pb that could react with phosphate. Four contrasting shooting range soils from around Australia (Murray Bridge (MB), Townsville (TV), Darwin (DA) and Perth (PE)) were used for the study. Materials and methods: Chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) are able to extract Pb from existing species in the soil, forming complexes. By lowering soil pH or adding Fe3+ for the displacement of Pb from the complex, a greater proportion of Pb may be available for reaction with phosphate. The use of biodegradable ethylenediamine-N,N′-disuccinic acid (EDDS) minimises residual effects of chelate treatment in the soil. Results and discussion: EDTA was not found to be suitable due to the stability of the chelate-Pb complex. The addition of EDDS had variable effect between the four shooting range soils. In the strongly weathered oxidic TV and DA soils, applying EDDS prior to phosphate amendment produced greater reduction in bioaccessible Pb, but in the less weathered MB and PE soil, bioaccessible Pb was increased. Water-extractable (WE) Pb increased in the soils by EDDS application, but this could be offset by lime application in DA soil, without negatively affecting Pb bioaccessibility; WE Pb also decreased over time when ammonium nitrate was added to the soil. Conclusions: Application of EDDS may be able to increase the proportion of Pb that reacts with phosphate in the soil, providing greater reduction in bioaccessible Pb than phosphate-only treatments. Additional treatability studies are needed to test amendments that could manage the water-extractable portion of Pb and to optimise application of EDDS for the best outcome. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

In this study, the predominant Pb minerals prior to and after Pb relative bioavailability (Pb-RBA) and Pb bioaccessibility (Pb-BAc) tests were identified using SEM (scanning electron microscopy), XANES (X-ray absorption near edge structure) and XRD (X-ray diffraction). The correlations between in vitro Pb-BAc (using the UBM (Unified BARGE Method) and RBALP (Relative BioAccessibility Leaching Procedure) models) and in vivo Pb-RBA (using endpoints of kidney and liver in an mice model) were determined. The results demonstrated that both RBALP and UBM (gastric phase) reliably indicate Pb-RBA (Pb-RBA). However, raising the solid:liquid ratio of the gastric phase of UBM is necessary to determine Pb-BAc if the soils contain total Pb >10,000 mg/kg. The comparison of Pb minerals prior to and after in vitro extractions demonstrated that the relatively soluble forms of Pb (PbSO4, PbO2 and MgO Pb) start to dissolve than other forms of Pb minerals, suggesting there was no difference in Pb2+ release between chemical-based (RBALP) and physiologically-based (UBM) models. The identification of the Pb minerals of Pb5(PO4)3Cl and organically-complexed Pb in mice excreta demonstrated that a portion of Pb2+ combined with food and humic acid to generate organically-complexed Pb in mice excreta, and that Pb5(PO4)3Cl is not bioavailable.

A study was conducted to evaluate a waste rock powder collected from the Seaham quarry in New South Wales, Australia, as a source of potassium (K) in soil. The K supplying capacity of different size fractions of the mineral powder was evaluated by employing five chemical extractants as well as growing maize and holy basil in sand culture experiments. The K release by chemical extractants increased with decreasing particle size of the mineral powder. The amount of K released by different extractants followed the order: water < 0.01 M calcium chloride < 0.01 M citric acid < 1 N ammonium acetate < 1 N boiling nitric acid. The cumulative K release from the mineral powder in successive extraction procedure was recorded higher with organic and mineral acids, which suggested that the material was a slow release K source. A significant positive correlation was observed between K release by different chemical extractants and the biomass yield (r = 0.93; p < 0.05) and K uptake (r = 0.96; p < 0.05) by plants. Among the different chemical extractants, 1 N ammonium acetate and 1 N boiling HNO 3 showed higher correlations (r = 0.91 and 0.96, respectively) with plant K uptake values. Both the chemical and biological methods were able to extract only a portion (12–20%) of total K present in the mineral powder. The results indicated that the mineral powder could be used as a slow release K fertilizer in soils. Further studies in long term applications with exhaustive crops under field conditions are needed to assess its feasibility as a source of K in agriculture. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Development of standardized CO2 Life Cycle and Techno-economic Assessment Guidelines was commissioned by CO2 Sciences, Inc., with the support of 3M, EIT Climate-KIC, CO2 Value Europe, Emissions Reduction Alberta, Grantham Foundation for the Protection of the Environment, R. K. Mellon Foundation, Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation, National Institute of Clean and Low Carbon Energy, Praxair, Inc., XPRIZE and generous individuals who are committed to action to address climate change.

Three Australian shooting range soils were treated with phosphate and magnesium oxide, or a combination of both to chemically stabilize Pb. Lead speciation was determined after 1 month ageing by X-ray absorption spectroscopy combined with linear combination fitting in control and treated soils. The predominant Pb species in untreated soils were iron oxide bound Pb, humic acid bound Pb and the mineral litharge. Treatment with phosphate resulted in substantial pyromorphite formation in two of the soils (TV and PE), accounting for up to 38% of Pb species present, despite the addition of excess phosphate. In MgO treated soils only, up to 43% of Pb was associated with MgO. Litharge and Pb hydroxide also formed as a result of MgO addition in the soils. Application of MgO after P treatment increased hydroxypyromorphite/pyromorphite formation relative to soils teated with phosphate only. X-ray diffraction and Scanning electron microscopy revealed PbO precipitate on the surface of MgO. Soil pH, (5.3-9.3) was an important parameter, as was the solubility of existing Pb species. The use of direct means of determination of the stabilisation of metals such as by X-ray absorption spectroscopy is desirable, particularly in relation to understanding long term stability of the immobilised contaminants. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

Between 60" and 80" of the cumulative channel length in mountainous areas, such as eastern Kentucky, comprises headwater streams. Surface mining, and in particular mountaintop mining with its associated valley fills, poses a significant environmental risk to aquatic and terrestrial life through the direct conversion of headwater streams to uplands and the associated degradation of downstream receiving waters. In light of the importance of headwater streams, development of practical stream restoration techniques for mined lands is crucial in order to restore impacted headwater stream systems. Stream restoration efforts are predominately focused on waterways in agricultural and urban settings with a relatively limited number of projects on mined lands. Often employing natural channel design (NCD) techniques, stream restoration practitioners utilize reference reaches to design new channels with the appropriate dimensions, patterns, and profiles. The ability to successfully restore or recreate streams on mined lands is linked to the restoration of the streams' watershed, including uplands and riparian areas, and stream channel.

Shooting range soils contain mixed heavy metal contaminants including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and zinc (Zn). Phosphate (P) compounds have been used to immobilize these metals, particularly Pb, thereby reducing their bioavailability. However, research on immobilization of Pb's co-contaminants showed the relative importance of soluble and insoluble P compounds, which is critical in evaluating the overall success of in situ stabilization practice in the sustainable remediation of mixed heavy metal contaminated soils. Soluble synthetic P fertilizer (diammonium phosphate; DAP) and reactive (Sechura; SPR) and unreactive (Christmas Island; CPR) natural phosphate rocks (PR) were tested for Cd, Pb and Zn immobilization and later their mobility and bioavailability in a shooting range soil. The addition of P compounds resulted in the immobilization of Cd, Pb and Zn by 1.56-76.2%, 3.21-83.56%, and 2.31-74.6%, respectively. The reactive SPR significantly reduced Cd, Pb and Zn leaching while soluble DAP increased their leachate concentrations. The SPR reduced the bioaccumulation of Cd, Pb and Zn in earthworms by 7.13-23.4% and 14.3-54.6% in comparison with earthworms in the DAP and control treatment, respectively. Bioaccessible Cd, Pb and Zn concentrations as determined using a simplified bioaccessibility extraction test showed higher long-term stability of P-immobilized Pb and Zn than Cd. The differential effect of P-induced immobilization between P compounds and metals is due to the variation in the solubility characteristics of P compounds and nature of metal phosphate compounds formed. Therefore, Pb and Zn immobilization by P compounds is an effective long-term remediation strategy for mixed heavy metal contaminated soils.

Soil needs simultaneous replenishment of various nutrients to maintain its inherent fertility status under extensive cropping systems. Replenishing soil nutrients with commercial fertilizer is costly. Among various fertilizers, deposits of potassium (K) ore suitable for the production of commercial K fertilizer (KCl) are distributed in few northern hemisphere countries (Canada, Russia, Belarus, and Germany) which control more than 70% of the world's potash market. Naturally occurring minerals, particularly silicate minerals, could be used as a source of K, but not as satisfactorily as commercial K fertilizers. In this context, bio-intervention (in combination with microorganisms and/or composting) of silicate minerals has been found quite promising to improve plant K availability and assimilation. This is an energy efficient and environmentally friendly approach. Here we present a critical review of existing literature on direct application of silicate minerals as a source of K for plant nutrition as well as soil fertility enhancement by underpinning the bio-intervention strategies and related K solubilization mechanisms. An advancement of knowledge in this field will not only contribute to a better understanding of the complex natural processes of soil K fertility, but also help to develop a new approach to utilize natural mineral resources for sustainable and environmental friendly agricultural practices.

A heavy particle concentrator (HPC), which can separate heavy metal particles from soil based on density, was examined for remediation of shooting range soil contaminated with lead (Pb) from a military training area. Concentrations of Pb in the stockpiles ranged between 1403 and 4300 mg/kg. The soils had high clay and silt content and were found to have relatively high exchangeable Pb, between 238 and 1480 mg/kg. After initial treatment by HPC, total Pb in the soil was reduced by 28%–56%. The fine soil fraction ( 250 μ m ) was found to still have relatively high Pb after HPC treatment. A greater removal efficiency was achieved by passing contaminated soil through the HPC a second time. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of the treated stockpile indicated Pb present in the soil sorbed on soil particles or as very fine discrete particles ( 20 μ m ) after initial HPC treatment. The addition of a chemical washing agent, ethylenediamine-N, N’-disuccinic acid (EDDS) was effective for removal of 68% of residual Pb after a single HPC treatment and may be considered for high clay soils.

The distribution coefficient, kd, of a soil plays a vital role in controlling its interaction with contaminant(s). Studies conducted by earlier researchers, demonstrate that kd is quite sensitive to various attributes of the soil-contaminant system viz, ratio of the contaminant in the liquid form to the solid (soil) form, pH, the cation-exchange capacity; mineralogy and redox potential of the soil, temperature, types of ionic species, and concentration of the contaminant. Hence, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to identify the parameters that have most significant influence on the kd. Such an exercise would be helpful in minimizing the number of batch tests to be conducted for determining the kd of a soil-contaminant system, which otherwise is a very cumbersome task. To achieve this objective, application of the Taguchi method, which primarily helps in designing experiments, appears to be a panacea. With this in view and to demonstrate the potential of this methodology for identification of the dominating factor(s) to which kd is highly sensitive, the Taguchi method was employed (both static and dynamic analyses) for designing batch tests. Subsequently, five parameters-cation-exchange capacity of the soil, contaminant type (ionic species of contaminant), pH of soil-contaminant system, liquid to solid ratio and concentration of the contaminant-were selected and temperature was maintained as a noise parameter. In this paper, kd is demonstrated to be highly sensitive to the concentration of the contaminant, cation-exchange capacity of the soil, and ionic species of the contaminant, in a decreasing order. Refereed/Peer-reviewed

The UK Food Standards Agency convened a workshop on 13 May 2009 to discuss recently completed research on diet and immune function. The objective of the workshop was to review this research and to establish priorities for future research. Several of the trials presented at the workshop showed some effect of nutritional interventions (e.g. vitamin D, Zn, Se) on immune parameters. One trial found that increased fruit and vegetable intake may improve the antibody response to pneumococcal vaccination in older people. The workshop highlighted the need to further clarify the potential public health relevance of observed nutrition-related changes in immune function, e.g. susceptibility to infections and infectious morbidity.

The beneficial effects of proper temperature management include reduced decay, improved firmness and skin color, greener stems, and reduced pitting. Improper handling temperature rapidly reduces shelf life. Modified atmosphere packaging has lengthened the postharvest life of cherry fruit by reducing the rate of growth of decay organisms, retarding softening and retaining stem color. Modified atmosphere films can provide beneficial effects whether they are heat sealed or sealed by turning the bag and closing with tape. Cherries held at 32 oF do not benefit from modified atmosphere as much as fruit held at slightly warmer temperatures (32 vs. 45 oF). Cherries held at 32 oF are superior to those held at 45 oF after 14 days. Thus modified atmosphere is not a substitute for cold temperature in extending postharvest life.

The UK Food Standards Agency convened a group of expert scientists to review current research investigating whether n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) from plant oils (α-linolenic acid; ALA) were as beneficial to cardiovascular health as the n-3 PUFA from the marine oils, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). The workshop also aimed to establish priorities for future research. Dietary intake of ALA has been associated with a beneficial effect on CHD; however, the results from studies investigating the effects of ALA supplementation on CHD risk factors have proved equivocal. The studies presented as part of the present workshop suggested little, if any, benefit of ALA, relative to linoleic acid, on risk factors for cardiovascular disease; the effects observed with fish-oil supplementation were not replicated by ALA supplementation. There is a need, therefore, to first prove the efficacy of ALA supplementation on cardiovascular disease, before further investigating effects on cardiovascular risk factors. The workshop considered that a beneficial effect of ALA on the secondary prevention of CHD still needed to be established, and there was no reason to look further at existing CHD risk factors in relation to ALA supplementation. The workshop also highlighted the possibility of feeding livestock ALA-rich oils to provide a means of increasing the dietary intake in human consumers of EPA and DHA.

The UK Food Standards Agency convened a group of expert scientists to review current research investigating the optimal dietary intake forn-9cis-monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). The aim was to review the mechanisms underlying the reported beneficial effects of MUFA on CHD risk, and to establish priorities for future research. The issue of optimal MUFA intake is contingent upon optimal total fat intake; however, there is no consensus of opinion on what the optimal total fat intake should be. Thus, it was recommended that a large multi-centre study should look at the effects on CHD risk of MUFA replacement of saturated fatty acids in relation to varying total fat intakes; this study should be of sufficient size to take account of genetic variation, sex, physical activity and stage of life factors, as well as being of sufficient duration to account for adaptation to diets. Recommendations for studies investigating the mechanistic effects of MUFA were also made. Methods of manipulating the food chain to increase MUFA at the expense of saturated fatty acids were also discussed.

Outcome following whiplash injury of the cervical spine is variable, and the pathology of those with prolonged symptoms is uncertain. We undertook a prospective study in 25 patients to identify whether those with prolonged symptoms following whiplash injury exhibit a rise in serum creatine kinase consistent with significant muscle damage at the time of injury. Transient rise in creatine kinase level was seen in only 2 of 25 patients, neither of whom complained of prolonged symptoms. Of the 8 patients who developed chronic symptoms following whiplash injury, none demonstrated a serum creatine kinase rise. Prolonged symptoms following whiplash injury cannot be explained by biochemically measurable muscle damage.

[(3)H]-Arachidonic acid-labelled rat T lymphocytes released radioactivity extracellularly when stimulated by the calcium ionophore A23187 or by monoclonal antibodies to some cell surface structures (CD2, CD5, CD11a, CD18, CD54, T-cell receptor) but not to others (CD49d, CD62L); release was greater with the calcium ionophore. Almost all of the radioactivity released from anti-CD2-stimulated lymphocytes was recovered in the free fatty acid fraction, whereas only about 50 per cent of that released after A23187 stimulation was recovered in this fraction. A23187 stimulation resulted in release of arachidonic acid from a variety of phospholipids (phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylcholine and perhaps phosphatidylethanolamine), while the monoclonal antibody stimulation released arachidonic acid from phosphatidylinositol and perhaps phosphatidylcholine. Unstimulated lymphocytes released a range of fatty acids extracellularly, with palmitic acid accounting for 35-40 per cent and arachidonic acid for 5 per cent of released fatty acid. Stimulation of lymphocytes with either anti-CD2 or A23187 increased total fatty acid release 1.5- to 1.8-fold. In both cases palmitic acid remained the most predominant fatty acid released but the contribution of arachidonic acid increased. The type of lipid fed to the rats significantly influenced the amount and type of fatty acid released. Fish oil feeding significantly reduced extracellular fatty acid release by stimulated lymphocytes.

Fish oil is rich in the long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA); typically these fatty acids constitute 20 to 25 g 100 g total fatty acids in fish oil. Feeding rodents diets rich in fish oil has been shown to decrease lymphocyte proliferation and natural killer cell activity. It is not known what level of EPA + DHA is required in the diet to exert these effects. This question was addressed in the current study. Weanling rats were fed on high fat (178 g kg ) diets which contained 4.4 g α-linolenic acid (control) or 4.4 g EPA + DHA (4.4 EPA + DHA) or 6.6 g EPA + DHA ( 6.6 EPA + DHA ) 100 g total fatty acids. The n-6 to n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ratio was maintained at approximately 7. The fatty acid compositions of the serum and of spleen leukocytes were markedly influenced by that of the diet. Spleen lymphocyte proliferation in response to concanavalin A, spleen natural killer cell activity and PGE 2 production by spleen leukocytes were reduced by feeding the EPA + DHA diets compared with feeding the control diet; the 4.4 and 6.6 EPA + DHA diets caused very similar reductions. The 4.4 EPA + DHA diet reduced popliteal lymph node weight following a localised graft versus host response; this response was not investigated in rats fed the 6.6 EPA + DHA diet. The reductions in lymphocyte functions and in the in vivo graft versus host response caused by the EPA + DHA diets were similar to those previously reported following the feeding of diets rich in fish oil. Thus, this study shows that diets containing relatively low levels of EPA + DHA (20 to 25% of the level found in fish oil) exert immunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, this study suggests that the maximal effect of EPA + DHA is exerted when these fatty acids constitute a level of less than or equal to 4.4 g 100 g total dietary fatty acids.