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BACKGROUND: The pathogenesis of Crohns disease involves genetic and environmental factors, with the gut microbiome playing a crucial role. The Crohns disease-associated variant rs13107325 in the SLC39A8 gene results in an A391T substitution in the ZIP8 metal ion transporter and has previously been linked to alterations in the colonic microbiome in variant carriers. We hypothesized that the A391T substitution alters metal ion homeostasis in the colonic mucosal-luminal interface, thereby inducing dysbiosis which may promote intestinal inflammation. METHODS: To evaluate this hypothesis, we generated a SLC39A8 A393T mouse model (matching human A391T). We first examined trace element abundance in the colonic mucosal epithelium and lumen of homozygous A393T and wild-type (WT) mice to determine if the variant affected metal distribution. We also performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing on colon samples at 2 months, 3-4 months, and 12 months of age, and conducted histological scoring of colon tissue collected from 5-month and 10-month old mice. RESULTS: Consistent with an effect of the variant on ZIP8 function, homozygous A393T mice exhibited increased cobalt in the colonic mucosa, but reduced iron, zinc, manganese, cobalt, copper, and cadmium in the colonic lumen. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of colon samples revealed variant-linked effects on microbiome beta diversity in 2-month-, 3-4-month-, and 12-month-old mice. Histological scoring showed spontaneous intestinal inflammation in 10-month but not in 5-month-old mice. Lastly, predicted pathway analysis of the microbiome samples revealed differential enrichment of iron-, zinc-, and cobalt-dependent pathways in A393T mice compared to wild-type controls. CONCLUSION: These results suggest that the variant in SLC39A8 primarily restricts metal availability to the microbiota, resulting in compositions that can adapt to the environment and that A393T-linked dysbiosis occurs prior to the onset of inflammation. This study paves the way for future studies investigating risk variants as microbiome-disease modifiers.

Lead (Pb) is one the 10 chemicals of major public health concern listed by the World Health Organization. One reason for Pb occurrence in food is agricultural practices. In this context, organic production systems are highlighted for not using pesticides, which may result in less chemical contamination in food. Considering that, this systematic review (SR) and meta-analysis was conducted aiming to investigate if there are differences in Pb levels in organic (OLV) and conventional leafy vegetables (CLV). This SR and its protocol (PROSPERO CRD42022306048) were based on PRISMA. Only analytical, cross-sectional studies which reported data on the analysis of Pb in OLV and CLV were included. Searches were conducted in 12 electronic databases besides manual searches in articles, directory, and archives of thesis and dissertations. No restrictions regarding language or publication period were applied. After the selection stages, 24 studies were included, of which 22 (91.67%) presented low risk of bias, while two (8.33%) presented medium risk. Significant difference (p = 0.008) was observed in the meta-analysis considering results in fresh weight (mean difference = 0.01 mg/kg), indicating an inferior concentration of Pb in OLV, being classified as evidence of 'moderate certainty', which answers our research question. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Arab region is located in an arid environment and suffers from water scarcity and poor water quality which are expected to become more severe in coming years due to global warming. In this study, the groundwater quality of 205 wells in Qatar was investigated. The physical parameters of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, inorganic carbon (IC), and organic carbon (OC) were determined. The study characterized the concentrations of major anions of Cl, F, Br, NO3, PO4, and SO4, and major cations of Ca, K, Mg, and Na. Importantly, metals and metalloids including V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Mo, Cd, Ba, Pb, and U were determined. The results revealed that the groundwater of all wells is not drinkable due to high salinity (average TDS 4598 mg/L and salinity 0.4%, respectively). Additionally, average concentrations of major anions Cl, SO4, and F were 1472, 1064, and 1.9 mg/L, respectively, and all exceed the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for drinking water. However, NO3 concentration in 11 out of 205 wells was above the WHO guidelines of 50 mg/L due to intensive agriculture and fertilizer applications. Major cations of Ca, K, Mg, and Na were higher than WHO guidelines with average concentrations of 345, 63, 127, and 923 mg/L, respectively. All trace metals were much lower than the WHO guidelines for drinking water; however, the vanadium (V) average concentration in groundwater of all wells was 31 μg/L, which is five times higher than the Dutch guidelines (whereas the WHO has no guidelines for V). The groundwater of Qatar is dominated by Ca and Mg sulfates in Sabkha environments and dominated by NaCl in the coastal zones from evaporate environments consisting of coastal salt flats, salt pans, estuaries, and lagoons supersaturated by salts and the influence of sea water intrusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For proper functioning of the human body, several metals are required in different concentrations but if their concentration slightly elevates, because of any metal-contaminated environment or of other food sources, which leads to high toxicity and different chronic health issues. Different analytical techniques like atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray fluorescence, inductively coupled plasma- mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS) and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy are used for metals analysis present in different samples in different fields but nowadays neutron activation analysis (NAA) is preferred over other analytical techniques because it is an efficient, multi-elemental, nondestructive analytical technique having an ultralow minimum detection limit, therefore it can detect heavy metals (HMs) even if at a very trace level parts per billion (ppb) with a quite simple sample preparation technique. This technique is known as "referee technique" because of its accuracy and trustworthiness. There is a widespread use of this technique in biomedical science like in Alzheimer's disease, cancer, arthritis, metabolism study, brain tumor and in many more conditions where metals are actively present. For its typical sample sizes and due to a multitude of additional benefits, it also helps in mapping of pathophysiology of the disease. Besides all, mainly in biomedical science the biological samples can easily be analyzed irrespective of any form. In recent years NAA is preferred over other analytical techniques in several research fields, so this article focuses on the analytical technique, its general principle and recent applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) is a non-essential and toxic metal for plants. Current study was planned to assess Pb-induced toxicity with and without NaCl in a halophyte Arthrocaulon macrostachyum. Three month old seedlings (after germination) were grown in pots containing quartz sand and sub-irrigated with 300 mM NaCl and different Pb(NO 3) 2 concentrations (0, 0.75, 3, 6 and 12 mM) in plastic trays where 0 mM NaCl and Pb(NO 3) 2 were taken as control for monitoring growth, physiological and biochemical characteristics. Plant growth (height and biomass) was optimized in 300 mM NaCl while progressive increases in fresh weights up to 3 mM Pb(NO 3) 2 may be related to better shoot turgor, succulence and more plant pigments. Growth was substantially reduced in 6 and 12 mM Pb(NO 3) 2 both with and without NaCl. Plant shoots accumulated higher levels of Pb and Na+ of up to 3 mM Pb;while root Pb increased in > 6 mM Pb(NO 3) 2 treatments. Decreased pigments, potential quantum yield (F v /F m) and yield of photosystem II (ɸ PSII) enhanced the accumulation of H 2 O 2 , electrolyte leakage and consequently reactive oxygen species (ROS) in 12 mM Pb(NO 3) 2. The scavenging of ROS was manifested with the increased in vitro activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) of up to 6 mM Pb(NO 3) 2 ; whereas higher Guaiacol peroxidase (GPx) may be related to cell wall hardening and poor growth. The increases in SOD, marginal changes in catalase (CAT) and unchanged APX of up to 6 mM Pb(NO 3) 2 demonstrated the activation of stress-responsive metabolism in Arthrocaulon machrostachyum ; and Pb accumulation of up to 200 mg kg-1 making this species a useful candidate for Pb phytoremediation. [Display omitted] • Arthrocaulon macrostachyum plants were able to tolerate up to 6 mM while 12 mM Pb (NO 3) 2 concentration was highly inhibitory to growth. • Arthrocaulon macrostachyum plants accumulated up to 200 mg kg−1 Pb under saline conditions. • The dual stress tolerance to Pb and salts in Arthrocaulon macrostachyum was associated with optimised regulation of water balances, ion fluxes and antioxidant feedback. [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]

Serpentine ecosystems are characterised by multiple environmental stressors: high levels of trace metals such as nickel (Ni), low availability of macronutrients and low water retention. These harsh environmental conditions exert a strong selective force on the vegetation, but their effect on community assembly processes and the functional trait composition remains unknown. In 26 plots on four serpentine sites on Lesbos Island (Greece), we measured six leaf functional traits related to resource acquisition and stress resistance on the 20 most abundant plant species. We quantified the proportion of variance explained by inter‐ and intraspecific trait differences and tested if individual species showed changes in trait values explained by soil Ni content. We investigated the adaptive value and the community level changes for each trait along the natural soil Ni gradient using a mixed model approach and functional diversity analyses. We tested the role of the abundant serpentine endemic and Ni‐hyperaccumulating species Odontarrhena lesbiaca in driving these patterns. Intraspecific variation explained by soil Ni content is smaller than 4%, and most of the variance is explained by interspecific differences in trait values. Most species do not show significant changes in trait values in response to soil Ni. At the community level, low specific leaf areas, small and thick leaves are selected on high Ni soils. Functional diversity analyses suggest a shift towards a stress tolerance syndrome (thick and small leaves with low SLA values) and an increase in functional diversity on Ni‐rich soils. However, these patterns are driven by the increasing abundance of O. lesbiaca. The endemic Ni hyperaccumulator has a stress tolerance strategy with small thick leaves and low SLA, while the community of broadly distributed species show an increase in trait values related to dominance and fast growth. Synthesis. Intraspecific variation in leaf trait responds little to soil metal toxicity. Endemic species harbour unique trait values compared to species with broad distribution which should justify their conservation as a priority. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Granite-related W-Sn ore systems are commonly associated with coeval Pb-Zn mineralization. It remains unclear whether these metals are derived from the same sources or not. Mercury (Hg) is a common minor component in such systems. Hg isotopes undergo unique mass-independent fractionation (expressed as Δ199Hg values), which is mainly generated during Hg photochemical reactions on Earth's surface and not affected by magmatic-hydrothermal processes, offering an excellent opportunity to trace metal sources in hydrothermal systems. We observed near-zero Δ199Hg values in wolframite (−0.10‰ to 0.08‰, n=11), and in skarn- (−0.17‰ to 0.12‰, n=48) and greisen-type (−0.12‰ to 0.10‰, n=11) bulk tin-tungsten ore from eight major ore deposits in South China. These values are identical to those of coeval highly evolved granites (−0.13‰ to 0.12‰, n=49), supporting that Hg in W-Sn ores were sourced from granite. However, sulfides (e.g., pyrite, chalcopyrite, arsenopyrite, galena, and sphalerite) in these deposits exhibit negative to near-zero Δ199Hg values (−0.42‰ to 0.09‰, n=124), which indicates a contribution of Hg and by inference other metals from both Precambrian basement rocks (Δ199Hg<0) and ore-related granites. The study demonstrates that multiple sources of metals were involved in the formation of the polymetallic W-Sn deposits, and further highlights that extraction of metals from basement rocks may be a critical control on the formation of economically important mineralization of base metal sulfides (e.g., Pb, Zn) in granite-related magmatic-hydrothermal systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The large amounts of iodine in brown seaweeds may contribute towards an adequate iodine intake, but also pose a food safety risk. In the current work we estimate the maximum amount of the cultivated brown seaweeds Saccharina latissima and Alaria esculenta (blanched and non‐blanched) that can be added to white loaf‐type wheat‐bread so European consumers are protected against excessive chronic intakes. We use data for high‐level consumers of bread with special ingredients added from the EFSA comprehensive European food consumption database to construct a conservative risk management model. We bake prototype seaweed bread and use the output from the model to assess exposure to iodine and trace metals. We also assess some bread quality parameters such as sensory characteristics, crumb firmness and specific volume. RESULTS: The maximum level of iodine in bread that would mitigate the European consumer from excess intakes was 857 μg I kg−1 bread. Assuming a typical 60% wheat flour per kilogram of bread, a maximum amount of 11.3 g of dried blanched A. esculenta (115 mg I kg−1 dry weight) could be incorporated per kilogram of wheat flour into the bread recipe whilst for non‐blanched S. latissima, which contained 3500 mg I kg−1 dry weight, only a minuscule 350 mg of seaweed was the limit. For prototype breads, seaweed addition had no significant impact on the specific volume and crumb firmness. Levels of cadmium and arsenic in the bread were also of low toxicological concern. CONCLUSION: A maximum 1–2% brown seaweed of total flour weight could be added to bread to contribute towards European consumers' adequate iodine intake without overexposure. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to assess sediment trace metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Ni and Zn) contamination using a systematic approach by collecting sediment samples from 8 transects along the Dubai coastline, each 10 km long, and each transect included its nearshore sediment sampling station. Additionally, 10 sediment samples were collected from the Dubai creek and other potential sources of metal pollution. The sediment samples were collected in December and again in August. However, no significant difference in sediment metal concentration was found between the two sampling campaigns. The sediment trace metal concentrations (0.92–1.31 mg Cd/kg, 2.82–176.6 mg Cr/kg, 2.27–621.67 mg Cu/kg, 0.88–23.6 mg Pb/kg, 1.92–192.2 mg Ni/kg and 9.1–391.05 mg Zn/kg) showed considerable variability, except for Cd (1.08 ± 0.06 mg/kg, 5.55% variability). Despite this, no significant differences in sediment metal concentrations were found between the sampled transects. However, significant variations in Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn were evident between distances from the shoreline to offshore stations along the Dubai coast, and the nearshore locations presented clear evidence of elevated/maximum sediment metal concentrations. Most of the sediment trace metal concentrations, however, were found well within the sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) for nearshore sediments. Trace metal contamination hotspots, nonetheless, were identified at some nearshore stations as determined by metal level exceedance over the SQGs, background levels and the pollution load index, with limited potential ecological risk. Overall, the findings suggest that sediments in the Dubai coastal environment are mainly influenced by anthropogenic activities in stations located in the proximity of ship maintenance, ports, and industrial areas such as Dry Dock, Jaddaf, Jebel Ali Port, Wharfage, Hamriya and DUBAL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intact rock glaciers (RG) are considered valuable water storage because containing permafrost ice volumes. The hydrological relevance of RG is forecasted to increase with respect to glaciers under climate change scenarios, as well as RG's role as water resources in alpine basins for multiple uses. Besides the assessment of water amount stored in intact rock glaciers, the evaluation of water quality is of primary importance. Here, we present the results of a chemical survey performed on five outflows from intact RG in 2020–2023 in the Piedmont region, Western Alps, Italy, along a latitudinal gradient and in different geological settings. The survey aimed to assess the water quality of RG outflows based on chemical indicators (major ions, nutrients, trace metals). Sampling and analyses were performed according to standard methods for freshwater samples, paying specific attention to the analytical quality and consistency of the data. We considered seasonal and interannual variability of the main chemical variables and the possible effects of RG outflows on the chemistry of lakes and ponds located in proximity to the RG. All the investigated sites were characterized by low to moderate ion content, low nutrients, and trace metals close to or below the detection limit, indicating a good water quality status. Results suggested lithology as the main factor affecting the chemical composition of RG outflows. The results of this study indicate it is advisable to develop shared protocols and joint monitoring programs for data collecting at RG outflow sites all over the Alps, possibly integrating chemical and biological indicators, with the final aim of monitoring the water quality of these valuable resources and its temporal evolution under climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Owing to increasing levels of potentially toxic metals in road dust, air pollutants suspended in the air, pose significant health risks due to rapid, unplanned urbanization and industrialization. This study investigated the pollution status and health risks of trace metals (i.e., Cr, Cd, Ni, Cu, and Pb) in road dust collected from 16 locations across six land-use categories in Eskişehir, Türkiye, including residential, roadside, traffic, tram stations, and car industrial areas. The analysis of trace metals revealed distinct types of urban pollution based on these functional areas. In areas with heavy traffic, high concentrations of the elements, especially Zn, Cr, and Ni, would indicate significant toxic metal pollution. The overall contamination was evaluated using three indices: enrichment factor (EF 0.45–65.75), geo-accumulation index (Igeo − 2.50–4.18), and pollution index (PI 0.27–27.22). Human health risks of potentially toxic trace metals in urban road dust were evaluated for children and adult groups based on hazardous index (HI) and total cancer risk (TCR). The health risk assessments revealed that children (mean HIchildren 8.62E − 01; TCRchildren 6.99E + 04) are more vulnerable to toxic metal exposure than adults (mean HIadults 1.01E − 01; TCRadults 3.01E + 04), with ingestion being the primary exposure route over dermal contact and inhalation. In conclusion, we have captured the interaction between road dust and health risks, especially for children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper is a trace element in plants and animals whose importance can be understood due to its role in different essential metabolic processes. Anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and mining are potential sources of pollution due to the emission of copper into the environment. Brazilian legislation ties soil quality to guideline values, among which the Prevention Value indicates the critical environmental limit for trace elements. The aim of this study was to obtain PVs for copper for two subtropical soils (Cambisol and Nitisol), given that the pedological richness was not considered when deriving the PVs contained in the federal normative. Reproduction assays followed ISO guidelines with the earthworm species Eisenia andrei and Perionyx excavatus, the enchytraeids Enchytraeus crypticus and Enchytraeus bigeminus and the springtails Folsomia candida and Proisotoma minuta. Results showed that the sensitivity of the organisms was greater in Cambisol. The most sensitive species were the earthworms, especially Perionyx excavatus (EC50 = 67.83 in Cambisol; EC50 = 264.96 in Nitisol). The springtails, on the other hand, were the least sensitive to contamination. These findings reinforce the need to include organisms from different ecological groups in ecotoxicological assessments. It was also observed that the PV adopted in federal legislation (= 60 mg kg−1) is in fact protective for the species and soils we evaluated, since the PVs we obtained based on the EC50 were 346.74 mg kg−1 in Nitisol and 134.05 mg kg−1 in Cambisol. It is important to note that our results do not exclude the need for evaluations with other subtropical soils, given the influence of their properties on the toxicity and bioavailability of copper to soil organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The international GEOTRACES program has been instrumental in demonstrating how marine sediments are a critical source of dissolved Fe to the world's oceans. Here, we present dissolved iron (dFe) from the GEOTRACES North Pacific GP15 section, which, alongside other sediment‐source tracers (including dissolved δ56Fe, Mn, 228Ra, and particulate Fe), allows for identification of the dFe provenance of three distinct dFe depth maxima at the Alaskan margin. Two of these (shelf and abyssal depths) are of local Alaskan sedimentary origin. The third, a mid‐depth dFe maximum with an absence of 228Ra, is an advected signal that, based on tracer data from Western Pacific GEOTRACES transects and circulation models, must be advected from sedimentary sources on the Asian margin, ∼5,000 km away. This study illustrates the importance of measuring diagnostic sedimentary tracers like radium when assigning local margins as sedimentary sources of marine trace metal budgets. Plain Language Summary: Iron is an essential, yet limiting, micronutrient for marine primary producers, and thus influences patterns of global oceanic primary productivity and carbon exchange. In recent years, the International GEOTRACES program has highlighted that marine sediments, hydrothermal vents, and atmospheric dust all supply dissolved iron to the oceans. Here, we investigated the sources of dissolved iron to the Eastern North Pacific Ocean, using samples collected on the U.S. GEOTRACES GP15 Pacific Meridional Cruise that sailed from Alaska to Tahiti in 2018. We identified three elevated dissolved iron features close to the Alaskan continental margin, with two originating from local sedimentary sources (shelf and abyss). The third, an intermediate depth dissolved iron plume that extends south into the gyre, is not of local sedimentary origin, but instead results from long‐distance transport of dissolved iron from Asian marginal sediment sources. A critical aspect of this study is the use of multiple chemical tracers such as radium, iron, and manganese, coupled with ocean circulation models, to correctly attribute the sources of trace metals to the ocean. Key Points: Three distinct dFe maxima were identified close to the Alaskan margin at different depths. Two are of local origin (shelf and abyssal)An intermediate depth dFe plume with an absence of Mn and Ra, is a distal advected signal from Asian margin sedimentary sources (5,000 km away)A multiple tracer approach of Fe, Mn, and Ra was necessary to rule out what appeared to be a local margin source [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination is a serious global issue that threatens both environmental and human health. This study investigated the levels of 12 heavy metals in sediments, roots, stems, and leaves of Phragmites australis (common reed) from a river in Iran, using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer (ICP-OES). The sediment metal concentration order was: Aluminum (Al) > Iron (Fe) > Manganese (Mn) > Zinc (Zn) > Magnesium (Mg) > Nickel (Ni) > Chromium (Cr) > Lead (Pb) > Copper (Cu) > Arsenic (As) > Vanadium (V) with Cadmium (Cd) below detection limit. Concentrations of As, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the sediments exceeded background values. According to sediment quality guidelines (SQGs), metal concentrations were between the threshold effect level (TEL) and the probable effect level (PEL), remaining below the severe effect level (SEL), except for Ni. Average metal concentrations in plant tissues were lower than in sediment samples, with roots showing higher levels of Cd, V, Cu, Pb, Zn, As, Al, Mg, and Fe than in the shoots, while leaves had higher Ni, Cr, and Mn. The bioaccumulation factor of less than 1 (except for V) indicates limited bioavailibility of these metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vermiculite is extensively utilized for several applications, including as a hydroponic substrate, for soil conditioning, oil cleansing, and addressing trace metal pollution. In this study, the expansion of natural vermiculite was easily achieved by utilizing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with the aid of microwave technology. The characterization of expanded vermiculite involved the use of X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), nitrogen adsorption isotherm (BET), and energy dissipation X‐rays (EDX). The vermiculite has been enlarged to have a structure resembling flakes, and its surface area measures 73.9 m2/g. The adsorption of Alizarin Red S onto expanded vermiculite was investigated under varying conditions, such as pH, starting concentration, adsorbent content, and duration of exposure. The enlarged vermiculite achieved a maximum adsorption capacity of 182.5 mg/g for Alizarin Red S. Out of the three adsorption isotherm models, both the Freundlich and Temkin models accurately describe the adsorption of Alizarin Red S onto expanded vermiculite. When studying adsorption kinetics, the second‐order adsorption kinetic model is more appropriate than the first‐order adsorption kinetic model, as indicated by an R2 value of 0.8964. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to evaluate the health risks faced by inhabitants living in the slum areas of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The levels of PM2.5 and PM10 and elemental composition of the PM10 were measured in indoors (in the kitchen and living room) and outdoors (at the roadside). A total of 75 sampling locations (45 indoor and 30 outdoor) were selected for the study. The levels of PM2.5 and PM10 were determined using an AROCET531S instrument, while an universal air pump was used for the sampling of PM10 for the determination of trace elements by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‒OES). The health impacts of PMs on the inhabitants of twelve microenvironments (MEs), where they spend much of their daily time, were estimated. The total amounts of PM2.5 and PM10, and trace metals in PM10 found in the nine or twelve MEs ranged from 10.6–119, 128–185, and 0.007–0.197 μg m-3, respectively. According to the United States Environment Protection Agency (USEPA) guidelines, ten of the twelve MEs can cause significant health problems for inhabitants (HI > 1) due to PM2.5 and PM10. Thus, special attention should be given by stakeholders/inhabitants to minimize the health impacts on long-term exposure. This study assessed the risk of levels of trace elements on the inhabitants who spend most of their daily lives. The study revealed that the lifetime cancer risk values for the individual and cumulative trace elements were within the tolerable range set by the USEPA guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Methods Results Conclusion Composts made from food waste will soon become more widespread on the market thanks to the upcoming enforcement of the legal obligation to sort biowaste. Our experiment aims at improving knowledge on the short‐term effects of these composts on soils’ physicochemical properties and vegetable crops.Three composts with contrasting characteristics were tested: a 100% v/v green waste compost (C1), and two composts composed of 50% v/v food waste and 50% v/v green waste, one prepared directly on the soil (C2) and the other from a competing producer who have the French NFU 44‐051 (AFNOR NF U 44‐051, 2006) certification for an organic amendment (C3). They were applied at a rate of 100 t ha−1 (dry matter) on two cropped soils with contrasting textures. Soil‐and‐compost mixes and compost‐free soil were planted with lettuce, radish, and potato.Seventy‐four days after planting, composts improved some soil physicochemical properties. The compost‐amended soils had better saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks, 1 10−3–2.5 10−3 cm s−1) than the compost‐free soil (0.5 10−3 cm s−1), and water‐stable aggregates were higher than the initial value in C3 soil, equal to it in C2 soil, and lower in C1 soil. pH, total nitrogen, and organic carbon increased in all compost‐amended soils. Food waste compost stimulated crop production. The yields (dry matter) of all three crops were two to three times higher in the two soils amended with food waste compost compared to unamended soil, whereas they decreased almost two times in the soil amended with green waste compost due to nitrogen immobilization. Trace metals (particularly Pb and Cd) added by the composts, although present in edible parts of the plants, did not exceed the European rules for trace metals.Thus, food waste composts have positive effects on soils and vegetable crops, and the higher their organic matter content, the higher these positive effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The environmental impact of trace metal contamination is a concern for Lake Small Abaya, Ethiopia, because of nearby agricultural and industrial activities. This study assessed the levels of trace metals (Pb, Zn, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Cr) in water, sediment, and fish samples, as well as the physicochemical parameters of the water. Samples were collected from five sites and analyzed via graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS). The mean concentrations in the water were Zn: 0.6971 mg/l, Fe: 0.5628 mg/l, Cu: 0.1168 mg/l, Mn: 0.2129 mg/l, Pb: 0.0057 mg/l, Cr: 0.0021 mg/l, and Cd: 0.0014 mg/l. In the sediments, the mean concentrations were as follows: Fe, 33.066 mg/kg; Zn, 18.263 mg/kg; Mn, 22.777 mg/kg; Cu, 7.5663 mg/kg; Pb, 0.0751 mg/kg; Cr, 0.0233 mg/kg; and Cd, 0.0183 mg/kg. The fish samples presented mean concentrations of Fe: 21.855 mg/kg, Zn: 12.686 mg/kg, Cu: 0.3185 mg/kg, Mn: 0.9181 mg/kg, Pb: 0.0089 mg/kg, Cd: 0.0075 mg/kg, and Cr: 0.0015 mg/kg. All the metal concentrations were generally below the World Health Organization (WHO) regulatory limits. The physicochemical parameters indicated slightly alkaline to neutral conditions, with electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids within acceptable ranges. These findings suggest that current agricultural and industrial activities do not significantly contribute to trace metal pollution. However, continued monitoring and pollution control measures are recommended to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of the lake. This study highlights the importance of effective environmental management strategies to safeguard this crucial aquatic resource. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The editorial "Metals in cancer: from intracellular signaling to therapy" explores the evolving role of metals in biology, particularly in cancer research. It discusses the mechanisms of ferroptosis and cuproptosis as iron and copper-dependent cell death pathways, respectively, and their potential therapeutic applications. The editorial also highlights the implications of heavy metal accumulation in tumorigenesis and neurodegenerative disorders, emphasizing the need for targeted therapies to minimize adverse effects. Overall, the research underscores the dual role of metals in cancer as both drivers of tumorigenesis and potential therapeutic agents, offering new avenues for cancer treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Spices enhance food's colour, aroma and palatability. The main objective of this study was to assess the levels of heavy metals in the most common spices used in Ghanaian and worldwide cuisines. Ninety samples were obtained directly from local marketplaces in the Accra Metropolis (Madina, Kaneshie and Makola). After microwave digestion, the samples' levels of arsenic, iron, lead, cadmium and zinc were measured using an inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometer (ICP‐MS). Iron, zinc, arsenic, cadmium and lead levels in specified natural spices varied from 0.022 mg/kg to 5.814 mg/kg, 0.056 mg/kg to 0.895 mg/kg, not detected to 14.012 mg/kg, 0.02 mg/kg to 0.45 mg/kg and not detected to 3.583 mg/kg, respectively. The toxic metals arsenic and lead in turmeric powder, whole rosemary and garlic, as well as lead in ginger, were slightly above the Codex, but below the FAO/WHO permissible level. All spices in this study had THQ and HI values of less than one, indicating that consumers will experience no potential health hazards from consuming specific metals through spices. However, continual scrutiny should be maintained over time due to bioaccumulation in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the goals of sustainable agricultural production is to avoid soil contamination by elements defined as trace metals (TMs). The aim of this study was to assess the long-term impact of the use of pig slurry (PS) and NPK mineral fertilizers on the soil content of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn). In a 9-year crop rotation, PS was used three times only before root crops. The same four levels of NPK doses (N0P0K0, N1P1K1, N3P2K2, N4P2K2) were applied to both plots with and without PS. Soil samples were collected in early spring from topsoil (0–0.3 m) and subsoil (0.3–0.6 m). Three forms of TMs were determined in the soil: pseudo-total (Aqua regia); bioavailable (Mehlich 3 method) and readily bioavailable (mobile) forms (1 M NH4NO3). The tested factors did not have a significant impact on the Cd, Cu and Pb content, regardless of the form analyzed and the soil depth. PS application significantly increased the content of bioavailable forms of Zn regardless of the year, and the content of pseudo-total Zn only in the sugar beet year, i.e. after manure application. Increasing NPK doses increased the content of mobile Zn in the topsoil, especially in PS plots. A tendency to accumulate mobile forms of Cd and Pb was also observed on NPK-fertilized plots. Thus, long-term application of high NPK doses may increase the risk of contamination of the food chain with these metals. The content of mobile Cd and Zn was positively related to the content of total nitrogen in the soil and negatively related to pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive accumulation of heavy metals has adverse effects on the human body. Here, magnetic iron oxide‐impregnated carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin was synthesized. The synthesized material was employed as a magnetic solid‐phase extracting adsorbent for specific heavy metals like lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and cobalt (Co). Characterization was performed by X‐ray diffraction, energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The analytical merits, like detection limits (Pb: 1.38 ng/mL, Ni: 0.5 ng/mL, Co: 0.14 ng/mL, and Cu: 0.55 ng/mL) and quantification limits (Pb: 4.14 ng/mL, Ni: 1.62 ng/mL, Co: 1.85 ng/mL, and Cu: 1.82 ng/mL) were calculated. Similarly, the preconcentration and enhancement factors (15) and relative standard deviation (Pb: 3.5, Ni: 0.92, Co: 2.7, and Cu: 1.5) were also calculated. The interfering study shows that the method is highly selective. For validation, it was applied to certified reference materials such as the Institute of Nuclear Chemistry and Technology ornamental Basma tobacco leaves and trace metal double addition 63.4 environmental water with good percent recovery values (92%–99%). Real water and food samples were also used with satisfactory (90%–99%) recovery results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding fish movement in river systems is essential in identifying habitats which are important for species to perpetuate. Water chemistry, paired with fish otoliths, can be used to trace movements among different habitats, although a detailed understanding of spatial variation in water chemistry is first required. To obtain this knowledge, we analysed surface water collected from 59 sites throughout the Clarence River Basin, a coastal river basin in northern New South Wales, Australia. The primary objective was to quantify the spatial variation of trace metals and strontium isotope ratios (87Sr:86Sr) for future and paired use with otolith microchemistry to track fish movement. Using ICP-OES, we identified that some trace metals, particularly strontium and barium as well as 87Sr:86Sr ratios, varied spatially when analysing all water samples and revealed three distinct regions centring around the estuary, interior and outer regions. These differences were driven by variation in the underlying surface geology between the Clarence–Moreton Basin and the New England Block. Tidal influence also affected trace metals and 87Sr:86Sr ratios throughout the estuarine area. We suggest that the level of differentiation identified in the current study has the potential to discriminate broad-scale fish movements among regions/habitats using otolith analysis, with fine scale movements best elucidated using complementary techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Navigation channels provide a vital link in the supply chain of inland transport. Excavation of sediment from the river bed and fluvial islands is necessary to make the large braided river navigable for transportation. Present research work investigates the feasibility of dredging operations in the mid-sand bars of the Brahmaputra River (Assam, India) for navigation purposes. Pernicious metal (Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, Co, Cr, Pb, Cd) concentrations were assessed at 42 sampling locations, covering a reach length of approx. 600 km (reaches 1 and 2). Vertical samples were obtained from 0 cm, 50 cm, and 100 cm of the mid-sand bar. Various indices were evaluated to quantify the contamination level in the mid-sand bars. Based on the enrichment factor (EF), reach 2 was highly enriched with toxic metal-limiting dredging operation. Conversely, reach 1 was found suitable for dredging operations, owing to the low EF value. Various anthropogenic activities are likely to be the causative factor for the heavy metal enrichment in reach 2, including effluents from pharmaceutical industries, oil refineries, and industrial and domestic runoff. Statistical analysis also endorsed those heavy metals possess similar anthropogenic origins. Overall, the dredging can be feasible for reach 1 and at localized zones for reach 2 across the Brahmaputra River. Further, the study tries to present a suitable mitigation measure to carry out dredging operations and manage contaminated dredged sediment for reach 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the urgency of resource utilization and environmental protection, the geochemistry of anomalous trace transition metal elements in coal formed in terrestrial environments has been studied using methods such as inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry analysis, electron probe micro-area analysis, sequential chemical extraction procedures, and correlation analysis. The results indicate that minerals in the coal samples included pyrite, kaolinite, quartz, dolomite, calcite, and celestite. Furthermore, compared with the average values of coals in China and the upper continental crust, the coal samples were rich in transition metal trace elements such as Ni, Cr, and Sr and were deficient in Be, Cd, Cu, Co, Ga, Mo, Sb, Tl, V, Zn, and Ti. We found that Ni preferentially occurred in the organic matter over minerals, while Cr primarily bonded with sulfide minerals and to a lesser extent with the iron-manganese oxide minerals. Sr had a low correlation with organic matter but adhered to clay minerals and celestite. Ni enrichment in coal samples was the result of terrigenous input, while the Cr enrichment was related to intrusion of magmatic hydrothermal fluids. Sr enrichment was caused by the presence of SO42- in the terrigenous debris and the influence of Sr-rich water underground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the lubricating performance of various base oils in a hydrogen-enriched environment. Experiments were conducted wherein base oils were emulsified with meticulously calibrated hydrogen concentrations, followed by a series of friction and wear measurements. Elemental analysis was performed on the worn surfaces, providing further insight into the wear mechanism. The findings of this study highlight the pronounced effect of hydrogen on the lubrication of pure water emulsions of Class IV 4 base oils, with the Class V 5-1 base oils showing optimal lubricating performance in hydrogen-enriched conditions. SEM images at high magnification scanning revealed the presence of a protective friction film on the surfaces of the wear scars in each sample. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) identified traces of metal sulfide within the friction film, which may play a role in reducing friction. The formation of this friction film is likely a contributing factor to the enhanced lubricating performance of the base oil. These findings contribute a substantial foundation for the development of standards for evaluating the performance of hydrogen internal combustion engine oils. [Display omitted] • Study on water emulsification of oil in hydrogen internal combustion engine. • The participation of hydrogen plays an anti-wear and anti-friction effect. • The lubrication effect of hydrogen on class IV emulsion is significantly improved. • The lubrication effect of class V emulsion is the best in hydrogen environment. • The participation of hydrogen contributes to the formation of metal sulfide films. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to observe changes in the diet of crab Eriphia gonagra due to the oil spill that occurred in 2019 on two beaches on the Pernambuco coast (Gaibu and Carneiros Beach) Northeastern, Brazil. Changes in the species feeding were investigated considering the periods before, during, and after of the spill and correlated with the analysis of sediment contamination Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Trace Metals (TM). 160 specimens were analysed. 24 food items were found, with a prevalence of Mollusca (fragment) and Macroalgae in the diet. There was no detection of oil fragments in the stomachs of animals, however, different patterns were observed in the feeding of the species studied in the BEF, DUR, and AFT periods of the spill. A generalist habit, it was possible to observe changes in captured items, thus we observed a diet with low nutritional levels caused mainly in impacted environments. Two factors may be prevalent in explaining the impacts caused by the feeding of E. gonagra in Carneiros Beach. The first was the decrease in prey that died after the arrival of the oil, the second was the lasting effects of contaminants on the predation capacity of the species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury, a trace metal, is a persistent environmental pollutant that can be detected even in remote regions, including high-mountain lakes. This study examined mercury concentrations in the sediment of two lakes in the French Pyrenees, the Legunabens and Labant lakes. Sediment samples were collected using a Hon-Kajak Sediment Corer, and mercury concentrations were measured following the EPA 7473 method with a direct mercury analyzer (DMA-80). Mercury levels reached up to 283 ng g−1 in the Legunabens lake and up to 110 ng g−1 in the Labant lake, possibly linked to the mining history of the Ariège department and atmospheric deposition from distant sources. These findings indicate significant contamination, ranging from an 8% to 42% probability of generating adverse biological effects according to Canadian standards, and approximately 90% higher concentrations compared to average mercury concentrations in other Pyrenean lakes. Such contamination poses potential risks to aquatic life and the environment due to mercury's toxicity and bioaccumulation in microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper is an essential micronutrient and the ability to scavenge tightly bound or trace levels of copper ions at the host–pathogen interface is vital for fungal proliferation in animal hosts. Recent studies suggest that trace metal ion acquisition is critical for the establishment and propagation of Pseudogymnoascus destructans, the fungal pathogen responsible for white-nose syndrome (WNS), on their bat host. However, little is known about these metal acquisition pathways in P. destructans. In this study, we report the characterization of the P. destructans high-affinity copper transporter VC83_00191 (PdCTR1a), which is implicated as a virulence factor associated with the WNS disease state. Using Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a recombinant expression host, we find that PdCTR1a can efficiently traffic Cu ions into the yeast cytoplasm. Complementary studies in the native P. destructans fungus provide evidence that PdCTR1a transcripts and protein levels are dictated by Cu-bioavailability in the growth media. Our study demonstrates that PdCTR1a is a functional high-affinity copper transporter and is relevant to Cu homeostasis pathways in P. destructans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution is the most important environmental problem in urban areas related to vehicular traffic and industrial activities. The widespread presence of common urban trees, such as Salix humboldtiana, and their ability to tolerate diverse environmental conditions make this species an especially promising candidate for assessing environmental metal contamination. Therefore, biomonitoring with vascular plants has been widely used to assess air pollution, especially the accumulation of trace metal concentrations. Therefore, for the first time, we analyzed the concentration of trace metals using Salix humboldtiana in twelve areas with different levels of pollution in a city in Southern Ecuador. For this purpose, samples were taken from each site to assess the accumulation of trace metals such as Zn, Mn, Fe, Cd, Cr, Pb, Cu, Al, and Ni. The results obtained showed significant differences in the concentrations of Zn, Mn, Fe, and Cd between the urban areas and the control area, indicating that the central areas were the most polluted by vehicular traffic. However, these findings suggest that Salix humboldtiana may not be a particularly effective tool for quantifying levels of environmental metal contamination such as Cu and Ni, at least in urban areas in the city of Loja. This study has demonstrated that Salix humboldtiana leaves can effectively monitor trace metals associated with road traffic emissions in areas with varying levels of vehicular activity, indicating that vascular plants can be utilized for this purpose in tropical cities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace metals are required as cofactors in metalloproteins that are essential in microbial metabolism and growth. The microbial requirements of diverse metals and the capabilities of prokaryotic taxa to acquire these metals remain poorly understood. We present here results from metagenomic observations over an entire productive season in the region off Kerguelen Island (Indian Sector of the Southern Ocean). We observed seasonal patterns in the abundance of prokaryotic transporters of seven trace elements (zinc [Zn], manganese [Mn], nickel [Ni], molybdenum [Mo], tungsten [W], copper [Cu] and cobalt [Co]) and the consecutive spring and summer phytoplankton blooms were strong drivers of these temporal trends. Taxonomic affiliation of the functional genes revealed that Rhodobacteraceae had a broad repertoire of trace metal transporters (Mn, Zn, Ni, W and Mo) and a more restricted set was observed for other prokaryotic groups, such as Flavobacteriaceae (Zn), Nitrincolaceae (Ni and W) and Thioglobaceae (Mo). The prevalence of trace metal transporters within a prokaryotic group, as determined on the family level, was overall confirmed in representative metagenome‐assembled genomes. We discuss the potential involvement of prokaryotic groups in processes related to organic matter utilisation that require these metals and the consequences on carbon and trace metal cycling in surface waters of the Southern Ocean. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In fish, the gill plays a vital role in regulating the absorption of trace metals and is also highly susceptible to metal toxicity. Trace metals such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), and manganese (Mn) are involved in various catalytic activities and molecular binding within the gill, thereby supporting a range of physiological processes in this organ. While beneficial at normal levels, these metals can become toxic when present in excess. Conversely, nonessential metals like cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) can gain entry into gill cells through similar metal transport pathways, potentially interfering with various cellular processes. The transepithelial transport of these metals across the gill epithelium is governed by a variety of metal transport and metal binding proteins. These include the Cu transporter 1 (CTR1), divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), and members of the Zrt-/Irt-like protein (ZIP) and zinc transport (ZnT) families. Additionally, some of these metals can compete with major ions (e.g., calcium, sodium) for absorption sites in the gill. This complex crosstalk suggests an interdependent mechanism that balances metal uptake to meet physiological needs while preventing excessive accumulation. In this article, I review the roles of trace metals in proteins/enzymes that support the different functions in the gill of teleost fish. I also discuss current understanding of the pathways involved in regulating the branchial uptake of metals and their influence on ionic regulation, and the potential detoxification mechanisms in the gill. Finally, I summarize knowledge gaps and potential areas for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital light processing (DLP) 3DP, commercial acrylate-based photocurable resins, and thermally expandable microspheres-incorporated flexible photocurable resins were employed to fabricate an SPE column with a thermally expanded monolithic foam for extracting Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb ions prior to the determination using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. After optimization of the thermally activated foaming, the design and fabrication of the SPE column, and the automatic analytical system, the DLP 3D-printed SPE column with the thermally expanded monolithic foam extracted the metal ions with up to 14.8-fold enhancement (relative to that without incorporating the microspheres), with absolute extraction efficiencies all higher than 95.6%, and method detection limits in the range from 0.5 to 5.2 ng L–1. We validated the reliability and applicability of this method by determination of the metal ions in several reference materials (CASS-4, SLRS-5, 1643f, and Seronorm Trace Elements Urine L-2) and spiked seawater, river water, ground water, and human urine samples. The results illustrated that to incorporate the thermally expandable microspheres into the photocurable resins with a post-printing heating treatment enabled the DLP 3D-printed thermally expanded monolithic foam to substantially improve the extraction of the metal ions, thereby extending the applicability of SPE devices fabricated by vat photopolymerization 3DP techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the years, prostate cancer (PCa) research has been of great interest, and trace metals have attracted a lot of attention due to their association with prostate cancer development and progression. PCa has a complex etiology, with genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors being implicated. Trace metals such as zinc (Zn), mercury (Hg), selenium (Se), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), manganese (Mn), arsenic (As), and nickel (Ni) have garnered much attention in recent years, suspected of having direct links to the modulation of cancer risk and progression through their impacts on prostate cancer omics (genomics, epigenetics, proteomics, and transcriptomics). This has led to them being the subject of extensive research in this regard. In this review, we explored the influence of trace metals and offered a comprehensive analysis of the current knowledge on how trace metals affect the biology of prostate cancer at a molecular level by integrating findings from the recent literature to help suggest possible directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper is a vital trace element in oxidized and reduced forms. It plays crucial roles in numerous biological events such as redox chemistry, enzymatic reactions, mitochondrial respiration, iron metabolism, autophagy, and immune modulation. Maintaining the balance of copper in the body is essential because its deficiency and excess can be harmful. Abnormal copper metabolism has a two-fold impact on the development of tumors and cancer treatment. Cuproptosis is a form of cell death that occurs when there is excessive copper in the body, leading to proteotoxic stress and the activation of a specific pathway in the mitochondria. Research has been conducted on the advantageous role of copper ionophores and chelators in cancer management. This review presents recent progress in understanding copper metabolism, cuproptosis, and the molecular mechanisms involved in using copper for targeted therapy in cervical cancer. Integrating trace metals and minerals into nanoparticulate systems is a promising approach for controlling invasive tumors. Therefore, we have also included a concise overview of copper nanoformulations targeting cervical cancer cells. This review offers comprehensive insights into the correlation between cuproptosis-related genes and immune infiltration, as well as the prognosis of cervical cancer. These findings can be valuable for developing advanced clinical tools to enhance the detection and treatment of cervical cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel method was developed for the rapid detection of heavy metals in firework solutions with high sensitivity and minimal pretreatment by enriching them with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) reagent and analyzing them using microwave plasma torch mass spectrometry (MPT‐MS). Quantitative results showed that the limits of detection and quantification for heavy metals (Pb, Ba, Sr, and Ag) ranged from 0.05 to 0.25 and 0.38 to 0.71 μg·L−1, respectively. The linear dynamic ranges covered at least two orders of magnitude, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.99. Fireworks from five regions in China were also analyzed quantitatively, detecting heavy metals including Pb, Ba, Sr, and Ag, with recovery rates ranging from 87.9% to 107.5%. Good separation between the firework samples from different regions was achieved by using element ratios and principal component analysis (PCA). These results from the preliminary study showed that the EDTA‐assisted MPT‐MS combined with PCA is a powerful tool for characterizing firework samples and tracing them back to their sources, which is valuable to effectively regulate and manage banned fireworks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient water treatment ideally combines ion exchange for the removal of hardness elements and toxic trace metals as well as ultrafiltration for the removal of particulate matter. Although promising for adsorption, many high‐surface‐area polymer materials cannot be easily processed into freestanding membranes or packed bed columns, due to poor solution processability and high back pressures, respectively. The preparation of hybrid membranes comprising sulfonated hypercrosslinked polymers entrapped in nanocellulose papers is described. The hybrid membranes are effective for simultaneous ultrafiltration and ion exchange. Increasing the polymer loading of the hybrid membrane produces synergy by increasing the permeance of the membranes while enhancing the ion adsorption capacity to values exceeding those of bulk hypercrosslinked polymers. The maximum ion adsorption capacity for copper is determined to be ≈100 mg g−1 outperforming that of pure polymer (71 mg g−1) and commercially available ion exchange resins. Competitive adsorption is tested in samples containing water hardness elements and trace toxic metal ions showing high ion‐exchange capacities. Even when fully loaded with water hardness elements, Ba2+ and Sr2+ are still removed from solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two novel hydrophobic deep eutectic solvents (HDESs), composed of alkyl (=Hexyl, Nonan) ethylenediaminium and menthol (Men), namely Hexen/Men and Nonen/Men, were synthesized. Hexen and Nonen primarily act as hydrogen bond acceptors, with Men serving as the principal hydrogen bond donor. After the formation of HDES, the IR absorption peaks of Hexen, Nonen's–NH2, and Men–OH fused into a wider peak, the 1H-NMR spectra of Men–OH, shifted to a lower field. Furthermore, a significant redshift approximately 300 cm−1 was detected in the vibrational frequency of the Men–OH functional group when performing density functional theory (DFT) calculations for the HDESs. These results support the development of stronger O–H···N bonds between Hexen/Nonen–NH2 and Men–OH, and the calculated sum of hydrogen bonding energy was approximately 56 mol·kg–1, categorizing it as an intermediate-strength hydrogen bond. Both HDESs have ethylenediamine polar heads in their hydrogen bond acceptors, which have chelating characteristics that help them coordinate with transition metal ions. Metal ions such as Cu(II), Co(II), and Ni(II) were successfully extracted from aqueous solutions at a concentration of 10 mmol·L–1using HDESs. The Cu(II) and Ni(II) extraction efficiencies exceeded 90%, indicating their effectiveness. Notably, even at higher metal ion concentrations (100 mmol·L–1), the extraction efficiencies of all three metal ions remained consistently below 80%. This indicates that the HDESs can suitably collect trace metal ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to contribute to understanding the processes influencing the spatial distributions of trace metal elements in surface sediments of Brenne’s ponds (France) and assess potential pollution levels in the area. It was motivated by the lack of knowledge regarding the hydrogeochemical dynamics of limnic entities, which are ponds. To achieve this, 25 sediment samples were collected from Pond Thomas, considered as a ‘sentinel pond’, and underwent analysis for grain size, total organic carbon (TOC) concentrations, and trace metal elements (TMEs) (specifically Cu, Ni, Pb, As, Zn, Cr, and Cd). The results revealed that trace metal elements are primarily concentrated in two areas: the northwest section and the upstream region in the southern part of the pond. Applying various pollution indicators such as the enrichment factor (EF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), and potential ecological risk index (RI), it was found that Pb and As are the most enriched elements, with respective EFs of 3.5 and 4.9. Their average concentrations exceed geochemical background values by 4 and 5.68 times in certain samples. The sediments in the southern part of the pond showed moderate contamination levels for As and Pb, with moderate to severe pollution (2 < Igeo < 3), reaching a maximum Igeo of 2.26 for As. Although the RI values across the pond are relatively low, Cd and As still pose moderate potential ecological risks. Additionally, principal component analysis and Pearson correlation analysis indicated two sources of TMEs in the area: Zn, As, Ni, Cd, Pb, and Cr are primarily from natural sources, while Cu appears to have a local anthropogenic origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Human activities have inadvertently led to the release of harmful substances, including trace metals, into aquatic environments, with consequential impacts on aquatic organisms and potential health risks for consumers. This research assessed the presence, origins, and health implications of trace elements within the muscles of Clarias batrachus and Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus from the Bomadi and Gbotebo rivers and their surroundings in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Methods: Thirty samples from each fish species were collected and analyzed to conduct the study. Through the use of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer, the researchers determined the concentrations of trace metals, including iron, copper, zinc, lead, nickel, cadmium, and cobalt, in the fish tissues. Results and discussion: The concentrations of the metals within the two fish species varied, with notable differences in zinc and cadmium levels. Utilizing statistical analyses like Pearson correlation, principal component analysis (PCA), and hierarchical cluster analysis (CA), it was established that the trace metals originated from diverse sources. The study then evaluated health risks associated with these trace elements, considering both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic hazards for different age groups. The results indicated that children's total target hazard quotient fell below 1 for both fish species, implying a limited tendency toward non-carcinogenic risks through lifelong fish consumption. However, in some adult fish samples, the quotient exceeded 1, indicating a higher potential for non-carcinogenic risks. Regarding carcinogenic hazards, the mean risks were generally lower than the accepted threshold, except for lead in both fish species among adults and children. Stricter values highlighted that only lead concentrations in fish from both categories were deemed acceptable. Consequently, this study highlights the importance of raising awareness among consumers who buy fish from the studied region. Moreover, consistent monitoring of potentially harmful trace elements in water, sediments, and fish is recommended to safeguard consumer health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anemia significantly contributes to the global disease burden, with its incidence potentially influenced by the trace metal content within the body. Objective: This study aims to examine the associations between trace metals and anemia risk, with a particular focus on investigating the potential mediating roles of iron status and inflammation in these associations. Methods: Five trace metals (Ni, Co, Mn, Se, and Mo) were examined in 1274 US adults, utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2020. The individual and combined effects of these metals on anemia were assessed using logistic regression, quantile g-computation (QGC), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR). A sex-stratified analysis was conducted to discern any gender-specific susceptibilities. Additionally, mediation analysis was employed to explore the potential mediating roles of iron status and inflammation in the associations between these metals and anemia. Results: Increased risks of anemia were positively associated with Co and Ni levels but negatively correlated with Se and Mn levels (all with p < 0.05). The trace metal mixture was negatively associated with anemia, with the highest weights of Co and Se in different directions in both the QGC and BKMR models. In the sex-specific analysis, we observed less pronounced protective effects from trace metals in females. Moreover, the mediating proportion of the iron status and inflammation in these relationships ranged from 10.29% to 58.18%. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the trace element mixture was associated with decreased anemia risk, among which Se was a protective factor while Co was a risk factor, and females were more susceptible. The effects of these trace metals on anemia may be mediated by the iron status and inflammation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For millennia, springs have provided water for drinking, domestic use, balneological treatment, liminality rites as well as tourist attractions. Amidst these uses, anthropogenic activities, especially urbanization and agriculture, continue to impair the functionality of springs. With the looming decadal climate change, freshwater springs could be a sustainable source of clean water for the realisation of Sustainable Development Goal 6. This paper presents the results of the sanitary inspection and assessment of limnochemical characteristics and quality of water samples (n = 64) from four freshwater springs (coded SPR1, SPR2, SPR3, and SPR4) in Kansanga, a flash flood-prone area in the African Great Lakes region of Uganda. Each sample was analysed for 17 parameters (temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, turbidity, fluorides, sulphates, chlorides, nitrates, orthophosphates, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, total alkalinity, potassium, sodium, total, magnesium and calcium hardness) following the standard methods. Water quality index (WQI) was calculated to establish the quality of the water samples based on the physicochemical parameters measured. Based on the sanitary risk assessment results, the springs had medium- to high-risk scores, but most water parameters were within the WHO guidelines for potable water, except for nitrates (in SPR1 and SPR2), hardness levels (in SPR2), and dissolved oxygen (in all the samples). Sampling season and location had significant effects on the limnochemistry of the freshwater springs (p < 0.05). The water quality indices calculated indicated that the water from the springs was of good quality (WQI = 50–57), but there was a reduction in water quality during the wet season. The best water quality was recorded in samples from SPR4, followed by those for SPR3, SPR1, and SPR2. These results provide insights into the contribution of floods and poor sanitation facilities to the deterioration of spring water quality in Kansanga, and the need to leverage additional conservation strategies to support vulnerable communities in the area. Further studies are required to establish the risk posed by trace metals and microbes that may contaminate freshwater in the studied springs, especially following flood events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bangladesh, body soaps are very popular among consumers due to their flavors and low alkali content. The current study assesses the contamination of several trace metals (TMs) such as iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in some of the body soaps most commonly used in Bangladesh. The concentrations of Fe, Cu, Zn, Cr, and Mn were found within the acceptable limits stipulated by the World Health Organization (WHO); however, in contrast, the concentrations of Ni, Cd, and Pb remained below the detection limit. Notably, the concentration of Cr in two soap samples (S-2, S-3) out of twenty-one soap samples exceeded the permissible limit stipulated by the WHO. Health risks associated with the TM intake via dermal routes were evaluated in terms of chronic daily intake (CDI) and hazard quotient (HQ). The results indicated that no non-carcinogenic risks (NCR) are likely to occur owing to the use of those body soaps. The carcinogenic risk (CR) estimated for Cr revealed no possibility of probable carcinogenic diseases. Though the NCR and CR are unlikely to occur resulting from the long-term uses of these soaps, the present study provides baseline information on the possible contaminations of TMs in the beauty soaps that do not seem to have been reported so far in Bangladesh. In light of the above information, it can be concluded that the presence of TMs in the body soaps could be a warning for people in general thereby suggesting continuous monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photosynthesis by phytoplankton reduces partial pressure CO2 of at the surface of the ocean and is therefore a potential means of action for a marine CO2 removal technology. Here we study how glacial rock flour may influence photosynthesis in the open ocean. Glacial rock flour is a fine-grained silicate mineral from the bedrock grinded by the Greenland Ice Sheet and enters the ocean via fjords and coastal waters. It is therefore a natural source of nutrients and trace metals to the ocean. It is easily accessible in large quantities and could be a suitable source for large-scale CO2 removal. The impact of suspended glacial rock flour was analyzed through 14 incubation experiments with natural phytoplankton communities sampled in the subtropical Atlantic. A significant increase in photosynthesis was found in 12 experiments where variable fluorescence Fv/Fm increased 12% and the average concentration of chlorophyll a increased significantly in comparison with control treatments during a 6-day period. Incubations with glacial rock flour showed a significant uptake of phosphorus whereas the average concentrations of silicate and dissolved inorganic nitrogen increased. Nutrient changes could be explained by increasing phytoplankton and microbial biomass, remineralization of organic matter, and weathering (mobilization) of glacial rock flour. These short time experiments indicated that trace metals from glacial rock flour stimulated phytoplankton growth. Thus, glacial rock flour has the potential to increase photosynthesis and phytoplankton growth, and therefore may be a potential means of action for marine CO2 removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The isotopic composition of barium ^[sup 138]Ba) has emerged as a powerful tracer of deep-ocean circulation, water mass provenance, and the oceanic Ba cycle. Although the δ[sup 138]Ba of water masses is primarily controlled by the balance between pelagic barite precipitation and Ba resupply from ocean circulation, questions remain regarding the isotopic offset associated with pelagic barite formation and how the resultant Ba isotope compositions are transmitted through the water column to marine sediments. To address these questions, we conducted a time series study of dissolved, particulate, and sedimentary Ba chemistry in the Gulf of Aqaba (GOA), in the northern Red Sea, from January 2015 to April 2016. These data span significant seasonal changes in hydrography, primary productivity, and aerosol deposition, revealing three principal findings. First, the dissolved Ba chemistry of the GOA is vertically uniform across the time series, largely reflecting water mass advection from the Red Sea, with mean dissolved Ba concentrations of 47.9 ± 4.7 nmol kg[sup -1] and mean δ[sup 13ί]^ = +0.55%" ± 0.07%" (±2 SD, n = 18). Second, despite significant variations in particulate matter composition and flux, the δ[sup 138]Ba of sinking particulate Ba maintained a consistent isotope composition across different depths and over time at +0.09% ± 0.06% (n = 26). Consequently, these data imply a consistent Ba isotope offset of -0.46% ± 0.10% (±2 SD) between sinking particulates and seawater. This offset is similar to those determined in previous studies and indicates that it applies to particulates formed across diverse environmental conditions. Third, barite-containing sediment samples deposited in the GOA exhibit δ[sup 13ί]^ = +0.34% ± 0.03%, which is offset by approximately +0.2% relative to sinking particles. While the specific mechanism driving this offset remains unresolved, our results highlight the importance of performing site-specific proxy validations and exercising careful site selection when applying novel paleoceanographic proxies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are considered pollutants of emerging concern. In rivers, MPs (=5 mm) are transported by currents and deposited in lakes, reservoirs, estuaries, and oceans. In Mexico, MPs in freshwater ecosystems have been scarcely studied. This work aimed to determine the presence of MPs in rivers of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve (SGBR). Samples of surface water and sediment collected from the Escanela, Jalpan, Ayutla, and Santa María rivers were processed. MPs in water were extracted by direct filtration using nitrocellulose filters with a 1.2 µm pore size; MPs in sediments were extracted by density suspension using a ZnCl2 solution (p ≈ 1.5 g/cm3). The surface of MPs was examined using SEM-EDX, and spectra of trace elements deposited on the MPs were obtained; additionally, MP polymers were characterized with FTIR. Fibers were the most abundant MP forms in both matrices. Up to 110.87 items L-1 were detected in water and 175 items kg-1 (dry weight) in sediments. Surface wear of MPs was observed, and trace elements were detected, including Al, Fe, Cr, Si, and Zn, among others. The polymers identified in MP samples were polyethylene terephthalate, polyester, polypropylene, high-density polyethylene, polyamide, and polystyrene. The test results revealed the presence of MPs with trace metals on their surface in the freshwater ecosystems of the SGBR, which may be related to mining operations in the study area, changes in land use, wastewater discharges, atmospheric transport, and dry and wet deposition. These findings demonstrated the ubiquity of these pollutants and their presence even in areas intended for conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The disposal of coal fly ash (CFA) generated from coal-fired power stations has serious impact on the ecosystem, by converting large pieces of land to barren ash dams with the potential to contaminate groundwater, surface water, air and soil. The aim of this study was to clarify the potential of phytoremediation using Helichrysum splendidum (Thunb.) Less. in areas polluted by CFA through conduction of pot trial experiments for 14 weeks. Plants of the same age were cultivated in CFA to assess their growth, photosynthetic rate and tolerance towards metal toxicity. This study revealed that the CFA was moderately polluted with heavy metals, and a lower photosynthetic rate was recorded for the CFA plants in comparison to the controls (plants grown in soil). Although the CO2 assimilation rate was lower for the CFA plants, increased growth was recorded for all the plants tested. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to quantify the amount of trace elements in samples and parameters including translocation factor (TF) and bioconcentration factor (BCF) were used to evaluate the phytoremediation potential of H. splendidum (Thunb.) Less. The results revealed that higher concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn and Pb were accumulated in the roots, while As, Ni and Zn were found in the shoots. Elements including As, Cr and Zn reported TF values above 1, indicating the plants' phytoextraction potential. The BCF values for As, Cu and Zn were 1.22, 1.19 and 1.03, indicating effectiveness in the phytostabilization processes. A removal rate efficiency ranging from 18.0 to 56.7% was recorded confirming that, H. splendidum (Thunb.) Less. can be employed for restoration of CFA dams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the chemical fractions (CFs) of trace metal (TMs) and multiple magnetic parameters were analysed in the sedimentary column from the centre of Lake Taihu. The sedimentary column, measuring 53 cm in length, was dated using 210Pb and 137Cs to be 124 years old. Surface layers of the column were found to contain significantly higher concentrations of Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, Sb, Ti, and Zn than the middle and bottom layers. The sedimentary core contained a substantial amount of ferrimagnetic minerals. Most of the TMs were present in the residual state, except for Mn and Pb. The chemical fractions of Cd exhibited the most significant variation with depth. The pollution load index (PLI) indicated moderate TMs pollution levels in the region, whereas the risk assessment code (RAC) classified Mn as being heavily polluted. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and XGBoost (1.7.7.1) machine learning models were used to simulate the RAC and total concentration of TMs, using physical and chemical indicators and magnetic parameters of the sediments as input variables. The MLR model outperformed RF, SVM, and XGBoost in simulating the CFs and total concentrations of most TMs in the sedimentary column, with R2 up to 0.668 and 0.87. The SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method reveals that χarm/χ is the dominant factor influencing the RAC of As in the XGBoost models. For the RAC of Co and Cu in RF models, C% and N% exhibit greater contributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]