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Sewage water, valued for its nutrient content, has become a common irrigation source for farming communities near urban areas. However, its utilization poses challenges due to diverse pollutants, especially toxic heavy metals like Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, and Ni. This study investigates the physicochemical properties of canal, mixed, and sewage water used in irrigation, assessing their impact on soil, spinach productivity, nutrient and heavy metal accumulation, and potential health risks linked to harvested crops. Metal-resistant bacteria, including Bacillus megaterium (N8), Bacillus safensis (N11), Bacillus sp. (N18), and Bacillus megaterium (N29), were examined for their role in mitigating heavy metal effects on soil and crops. Water quality analysis shows safe pH levels, but elevated electrical conductivity (EC) and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) in mixed and sewage water raise concerns about their suitability for irrigation. Micronutrient levels are notably high in sewage and mixed water, emphasizing their significance for irrigation. Heavy metal analysis reveals toxic level of Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni concentrations in sewage water, highlighting contamination risks. Inoculation with metal -resistant bacteria (N11) proves promising in improving soil nutrients (Fe - 20.7 mg kg-1, Zn - 13.7 mg kg-1, N - 0.32%, P - 17.3 mg kg-1 and K - 173 mg kg-1), reducing heavy metal accumulation i.e., Pb (-11%), Cd (-12%), Cr (-8%), Ni (-5%), Cu (-6%) and Mn (-6%), and enhancing spinach growth such as plant height (26%), shoot fresh biomass (23%) and shoot dry biomass (25 %). The investigation described the elevated nutrient and heavy metal concentrations in spinach irrigated with sewage and mixed water. However, inoculation with metal -resistant bacteria emerges as a sustainable solution, maintaining bioaccumulation and health risk index (HRI) within permissible limits, positioning them as a reliable inoculum source for vegetable cultivation using sewage water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Effective management of urban solid waste in the Metropolitan Region of Belém, State of Pará, Brazil is essential for conserving ecosystems and public health in eight cities, emphasizing the municipality of Marituba. Considering the vulnerability of underground water resources in Marituba to pollution due to the possible impact of leachate percolation from the landfill, this study evaluates the quality of groundwater captured in tubular wells from different adjacent locations potentially used for human consumption. For this purpose, the systematic methodologies of the groundwater quality index and human health risk assessment analysis: non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk to human health were used based on chronic daily intake of heavy metals by consumption and dermal adsorption of groundwater, measured through risk quotients, risk index, and incremental lifetime cancer risk. To evaluate the interrelationships of pollutants, analysis of variance, hierarchical cluster analysis, and principal component analysis were used based on the spatio-temporal quantification of pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, As, Al, Ba, Co, Cd, Cu, Cr, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, U, and Zn. Residents of the study area are not at potential risk, as the results demonstrate that groundwater is within the potability standards of Brazilian legislation, except for aluminum concentrations, which ranged from 53.12 to 378.01 μg L−1 and 3.82 to 339.5 μg L−1 in the dry and rainy seasons, respectively, exceeding the established limit of 200.0 μg L−1. The quality index for groundwater and the heavy metal pollution index demonstrated that groundwater has good drinking quality with low metal contamination. The risk was considered low at all sampling sites in the non-carcinogenic risk assessment. Principal component analysis indicated that the sources of metal pollution are natural origins and anthropogeny. In this sense, they become worried because aluminum is a recognized neurotoxicant that can interfere with the central nervous system's critical physiological and biochemical processes. Furthermore, despite complying with potability standards, trace concentrations of highly toxic metals such as As, Pb, Cd, and Ni may indicate initial contamination by landfill leachate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global advancement of solar energy and its emerging technologies are good indicators to assess the general response of energy users to clean energy as enshrined in the sustainable development goal (SDG) 7. However, the reality that solar panels and other components would become electronic waste someday and ultimately contribute to chemical hazards in the environment is a source of concern. This study aimed to evaluate the amounts of heavy metals in solar photovoltaic (PV) modules using atomic absorption spectroscopy and estimate the health risks associated with these heavy metals. Six samples of solar PV were collected and evaluated for Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Arsenic (As). Using the health risk index (HRI) and the target hazard quotient (THQ), the human dangers presented by the presence of heavy metals were evaluated. The heavy metal content ranged as follows: Pb (6.00–6.25 mg/kg); Cd (0.10–1.25 mg/kg); Cr (8.00–12.00 mg/kg); and As (0.60–1.25 mg/kg). An estimate of the average weight for children and adults was used to calculate the health risk index. The result showed that health risks for children and adults are high with heavy metal concentrations escalating in the order Pb > Cd > Cr > Ar. The THQ in all metals was < 1 in all the solar PV samples, which indicates they do not pose serious health risk concerns in a single panel. However, considering the large number of waste panels, the risk would be significant. Also, it was found that there were naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) in the PV modules and their effects are more in the short term. Hence, heavy metals are envisaged as long-term hazards, and NORM in PV modules are envisaged as short-term hazards. Using the EPA dose compliance concentrations (DCC) (EPA-DCC), the radioactive exposures from the selected photovoltaics were proven to be directly dependent on the number of PVs in use and their distance from the PV installations. Several recommendations were made to curb death in the process of pursuing cleaner energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fish are consumed worldwide due to their nutritional and health benefits; however, heavy metal pollution is compromising their safety. This study aimed to determine heavy metal safety in water and fish, specifically tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and catfish (Clarias gariepinus), collected from Bunza River in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Methods: Water and fish samples underwent analysis for zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) using atomic absorption spectroscopy. The obtained values were then utilized to assess the associated health risks. Results: The atomic absorption spectroscopy of fish revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) between heavy metal concentrations in the fish organs and FAO/WHO standards. It indicated non-tolerable concentrations of copper (1.77-5.24 mg kg-1) and lead (1.85-4.53 mg kg-1). The estimated daily intake (EDI) of Pb and Cd through fish consumption was above the recommended daily intake (RDI). However, the hazard quotient (HQ) and health risk index (HI) of all the heavy metals were within tolerable limits ( < 1). On water samples, non-tolerable levels of the heavy metals and significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed when compared with the standards. The water samples had average concentrations of Cu (4.64 ± 0.62 mg kg-1), Pb (1.78 ± 0.70 mg kg-1), Cd (0.50 ± 0.02 mg kg-1), and Zn (18.90 ± 3.08 mg kg-1). The average daily ingestion (ADI) and HQ of the heavy metals through the consumption of the water were above the recommended limits. Conclusion: Based on the results, the fish and water samples could cause heavy metal-related toxicity. There is a need for policies aimed at decontaminating the river.

Municipal waste is a cost-effective and valuable source of organic matter for agricultural soils. In recent years, MSW compost has been widely used in agriculture as a soil conditioner and fertilizer. However, the excessive use of organic and mineral fertilizers in the production of greenhouse crops leads to the accumulation of heavy metals in the soil and health risks for humans. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of the municipal waste and manure application on heavy metals in the soil. Also, the health risks for humans were evaluated through the consumption of cucumber cultivated in these soil. In this study, the concentration of heavy metals Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn in soil, mobility of metals, bioavailability, fractionation of metals, effects of pollution in the greenhouse soil and uptake of these metals by cucumber plant following 3 cultivation years of application of municipal waste compost and manure were studied in a randomized complete block design with three replicates in a greenhouse located in the south of Theran province. Also, environmental pollution risks were evaluated. The results showed that the application of municipal waste compost and manure increased both the total and available concentration of heavy metals in the soil. However, the concentration of the measured metals was at the permissible limit of the concentrations of heavy metals in Iranian soils. Copper and Zn were detected as the most mobile metals in control and treated soils with municipal waste compost and manure, respectively. The amount of Pb (2.26 mg kg-1) and Cd (0.06 mg kg-1) in cucumber in treated soil with municipal waste exceeded the limit value for edible vegetables. Based on the results obtained from the health risk index, Pb and Cu represented a high potential risk for the health of adults and children by consuming cucumbers in compost-treated soils. The results of this study showed that despite the three-year application of municipal waste compost and manure, the concentration of heavy metals measured was not higher than the allowed guideline level. However, considering the high bioavailability of heavy metals, repeated application of municipal waste compost would carry a risk of gradual accumulation in the soil over time. Therefore, measuring the total and extractable concentration of heavy metals and metal mobility when assessing likely effects on plant yields and metal uptakes and setting soil quality criteria is important.

This work assessed the alleviating effects of bacteria (Bacillus subtilis) and phosphorus as environmentally friendly materials on the cultivation of pepper plants in polluted soil with lead (Pb) in forms of PbSO4, and Pb(NO3)2 at rates of 0, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg Pb/g soil. Pot experiments were conducted to study the growth parameters, some physiological factors, biochemical constituents, and yield attributes, as well as the tolerance index (TI), translocation factor (TF), bioconcentration factor (BCF), and health effects [daily intake of heavy metals (DIM), health risk index (HRI), and carcinogenic risk (CR)]. Increasing the Pb concentration of all Pb salt used in soil severely affected the plant vegetative growth parameters. In comparison with other Pb salt forms, Pb(NO3)2 salt had a strong inhibitory impact. Additionally, the photosynthetic pigments in leaves were negatively impacted by all Pb salt forms. The application of Pb in all salt forms led to changes in the leaf water deficit (LWD), osmotic pressure, and membrane integrity and decreased the total water content, relative water content (RWC), transpiration rate, and leaf succulence. Pollution with Pb salts considerably decreased the yield constituents and various chemical properties of pepper, more so in the presence of Pb nitrate than in the presence of Pb sulfate type. A comparison of the concentration of Pb presence of Pb nitrate was greatly increased than the Pb sulfate in the whole plants. The safe limit of 0.3 mg/kg was exceeded by the Pb concentration in pepper fruits (6.3 and 4.3 mg/kg) cultivated in Pb-contaminated soil [with Pb(NO3)2 and PbSO4, respectively]. Additionally, Pb sulfate had a greater detrimental effect on Pb uptake in several plant organs than other Pb salt forms. The TI of pepper plants treated with salt types was >60% with PbSO4 (75.6%), whereas it was <60% with Pb(NO3)2 (35.2%). The BCF values of pepper plants in the polluted Pb soils varied from 0.10 to 0.41, indicating a moderate accumulator plant. At every level of Pb contamination with all Pb salt types, the sequence of Pb TF values was as follows: roots (TFr) > shoots (TFsh) > fruits (TFf), with TF values < 1. When compared with TFr and TFsh, TFs for shoot to fruits (TFf) had the lowest values (range, 0.07–0.22). The DIM, HRI, and CR values of pepper plants revealed that the Pb of fruit of stressed pepper plants is within safe limits. In addition to reducing the detrimental effects of intolerable Pb levels (2000 and 3000 mg Pb/g soil) on the majority of the aforementioned characters, adding Bacillus bacteria as a bio-agent and phosphorus as a chemo-agent to Pb-polluted soils also stimulated growth, increased yield, controlled plant water relations, protected photosynthetic pigments, and sharply decreased the Pb accumulation in plant organs. The Bacillus bacteria application resulted in some superior characteristics, such as root length, leaf number, leaf length, leaf area, leaf area index, fresh biomass, dry biomass, photosynthetic pigments, quantity yield attributes, reduction Pb accumulation in all plant organs, TI, TFr, TFf, BCF, in health effects trials, whereas phosphorus application improved plant height, leaf width, RWC, LWD, osmotic pressure, total soluble solids, acidity, total carbohydrates, total protein, and TFsh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The effectiveness of microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE) and Soxhlet extraction (SE) was compared for the determination of herbicides (atrazine, 2.4 dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, mesotrione, and glyphosate) in soil and maize crop followed by gas chromatography with flame ionization detector. The recoveries of herbicides in maize and soil were 62%–80% and 70%–81%, respectively, for SE, whereas they were 80%–98% and 85%–101%, respectively, for MAE. The analysis repeatability, represented as relative standard deviations were

In this study, the concentration of heavy metals in water and sediments in four stations of Chabahar Lagoon was investigated. Ecological risk index (RI), pollution load index (PLI), and land accumulation index (Igeo) were used to evaluate the ecological risk of heavy metals in the sediment environment. To evaluate the risk of these metals to human health, the hazard index (HI) for two age groups, adults and children was used. The results showed that the highest value of the ecological risk index occurred in station 4 with a value of 38.73 and the lowest value occurred in station 1 with a value of 21.36. The calculated RI values for all stations were less than 150, indicating that they are in the low-risk range. The highest value of the pollution load index also occurred in station 4 with a value of 0.59, which shows that the sediments of all four stations were not polluted. However, Igeo values were less than zero, which indicates that the studied sediments are in the non-polluted range. Only station 4 had a value greater than zero and less than 1 for chromium, which is in the range of pollution, not polluted to moderate with this metal. Also, risk index values for minors and adults were calculated at each station. The highest value for minors and adults occurred at station 4 with values of 0.89 and 0.59, respectively. Although HI values are less than 1, minors are more exposed to these metals than adults. These results are very worrying for minors who are a vulnerable group in society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to determine heavy metals and metalloids in twenty-eight chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller) samples consumed in Turkey by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and evaluate health risks for humans through the consumption of chestnut samples. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, Ni and Zn analyzed in chestnut samples varied from 537 to 635, 608 to 5333, 347 to 972, 207 to 8619, 12,739 to 86,310, 278 to 7549, 8676 to 67,622, 1068 to 18,661 and 3625 to 12,876 µg/kg (dry weight), respectively. The concentrations of Cd and Pb were above the maximum limits determined by the Turkish Food Codex. Healthy risks caused by the heavy metals in the consumed chestnut samples were evaluated by estimating the average daily intake of metal, health risk index (HRI), and total HRI. These results revealed that there is no possible health risk to consumers due to the intake of chestnut samples studied under the current consumption rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace elements known as micronutrients which are essential for metabolic pathways, physiological and chemical reactions of human and other living organisms. However, these elements can cause potential health risk in high concentrations, especially of toxic elements. Increase of pollution sources is the main cause of accumulation of trace elements in plants. The aim of this study is to determine of some trace elements in celery, dill, parsley, and cress samples collected from two different areas of Iraq. The obtained results revealed that Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Cd concentrations in either leaves or stalks of most samples were lower than the permissible limits set by WHO/FAO and Eu. The total mean values (leaves plus stalks) of Cu, Zn, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Cd were 3, 8, 5, 2, 2 and 0.4 mg/Kg respectively. According to total mean values, both of Cu, Zn, Mn, and Ni were lower than the permissible limits. While, Cd and Pb concentrations were appeared to be higher than permissible limits. These results also show that samples collected from Al-Amirea district (in Baghdad) was more polluted than other collected from Fallujah (in Anbar). However the high levels of Pb and Cd in studied samples, calculated human risk index did not show a serious threats for consumers health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water, forages, and soil contamination with potentially toxic metals (PTMs) through anthropogenic activities has become a significant environmental concern. It is crucial to find out the level of PTMs in water, soil, and forages near industrial areas. The PTMs enter the body of living organisms through these sources and have become a potential risk for humans and animals. Therefore, the present study aims at the health risk assessment of PTMs and their accumulation in soil, water, and forages of three tehsils (Kallar Kahar, Choa Saidan Shah, and Chakwal) in district Chakwal. Samples of wastewater, soil, and forages were collected from various sites of district Chakwal. PTMs detected in the present study were cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), and nickel (Ni), and their levels were measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAs GF95 graphite furnace auto sampler). Pollution load index (PLI), bio concentration factor (BCF), soil enrichment factors (EF), daily intake value (DIM), and health risk index (HRI) in sheep, cow, and buffalo were also analyzed. The results revealed that the mean concentration (mg/L) of Cd (0.72–0.91 mg/L), Cr (1.84–2.23 mg/L), Pb (0.95–3.22 mg/L), Co (0.74–2.93 mg/L), Cu (0.84–1.96 mg/L), and Ni (1.39–4.39 mg/L) in wastewater samples was higher than permissible limits set by WHO, NEQS, WWF, USEPA, and Pakistan in all three tehsils of district Chakwal. Similarly, in soil samples, concentrations of Cd (1.21–1.95 mg/kg), Cr (38.1–56.4 mg/kg), and Ni (28.3–55.9 mg/kg) were higher than their respective threshold values. The mean concentration of PTMs in forage samples (Parthenium hysterophorus, Mentha spicata, Justicia adhatoda, Calotropis procera, Xanthium strumarium, Amaranthaceae sp.) showed that maximum values of Cd (5.35–7.55 mg/kg), Cr (5.47–7.51 mg/kg), Pb (30–36 mg/kg), and Ni (12.6–57.5 mg/kg) were beyond their safe limit set for forages. PLI, BCF, and EF were > 1.0 for almost all the PTMs. The DIM and HRI for sheep were less than < 1.0 but for cows and buffalo were > 1.0. The current study showed that soil, water, and forages near coal mines area are contaminated with PTMs which enter the food chain and pose significant harm to humans and animals. In order to prevent their dangerous concentration in the food chain, regular assessment of PTMs present in soil, forages, irrigating water, and food is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of heavy metals (HM) and trace elements (TE) in soil and rice can be either beneficial or harmful. Hence, assessment of the HM and TE present in them is of prime importance for proper health risk management. As a first-hand report, an assessment of the TE and HM in paddy fields and rice grains was undertaken to evaluate health-related issues after consuming local rice grains from Champhai, North Vanlaiphai, and Kolasib of Mizoram, India. The concentrations of TE and HM in paddy fields could be ranked in the order Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu > Ni > As, and no trace amounts of Cd and Pb were found. In soils and rice, all the elements were determined to be below permitted limits. A significant difference (p < 0.05) was found when the concentration of HM and TE in the soil and rice were compared. The Health Risk Index (HRI) value of rice consumers for all the study sites was less than 1 in all cases except for Ni from Champhai rice (1.6) suggesting cultivars from Champhai might pose some negative impacts on health and sought for better management system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morels (Morchella spp.) are wild edible mushrooms and are globally known for their high nutritional value. The current study aims at probing the heavy metal content in early emerging autumn-type Morchella galilaea that occurs exclusively in the irrigated plains of Charsadda, Pakistan. The identification of samples was conducted through morphology and internal transcribed spacer sequence (ITS) data. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was employed to analyze the soil and M. galilaea samples for heavy metals including Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Cu. The heavy metal content in soil samples was within the permissible limits of SEPA China and WHO, USA with few exceptions. The hymenophore (H) and fruiting bodies (FB) were also analyzed revealing these metals within the permissible limits set by WHO and SEPA. Further analysis indicated that heavy metal concentration in the fruiting body (FB) was higher compared to those in the hymenophore (H). The toxicological assessment revealed that the transfer factor (TF) was less than 1 with a significant difference (p < 0.05) among samples. The daily intake of metals and health risk index values for all samples were <1. Hence, the daily intake of M. galilaea harvested from the wild has no toxicological hazards to human health, especially in the heavy metal concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed physiochemical and biological properties of sachet waters. In general, sachet waters were within standards for all parameters except lead in batch A & B, iron in batch E, and E. coli in all water brands. Human health risk showed the order of THI as NO3- > Pb > F- > Fe for batch A & B samples and NO3- > F- > Pb > Fe for batch C, D & E. This showed nitrate constituting over 50% of the THI while batch B water samples showed THI above the acceptable limit for all age groups. The THI for infants suggests moderate risk. This indicates infants are more likely to be impacted even though water parameters were within standards. Hence, there is a need to monitor sachet water companies to protect public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cobalt (Co) bioaccumulation, contamination, and toxicity in the soil environment, plant growth, and cattles' health are becoming a severe matter that can cause unembellished consequences in environmental safety and human health. The present research was conducted for the assurance of cobalt (Co) amassing in three forage plant species (Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, Trifolium alaxandrium), from four ecological sites, and sewage water and in buffaloes blood was investigated. The analysis of variance showed significant differences for Co concentration in the soil and sewage water collected from all ecological sites. Meanwhile, summer and winter seasons and forage ecotypes significantly influenced the quantity of Co. The forage pastures also vary significantly in the concentration of Co in the above-ground parts. The highest Co level was present in Trifolium alaxandrium at ecological site-5. Cobalt taken from wastewater had a higher concentration in Trifolium alaxandrium during the winter. The samples which are collected from site-V and site-IV have the maximum concentration of Co because these areas receive highly contaminated water for irrigation. Cobalt tends to be bioaccumulated in the food chain and can cause serious problems in humans and animals. Bioaccumulation of cobalt in collected samples could be accredited to anthropogenic activities. Pollution load index values for all samples fell in the range below 1. The health risk index indicated the probability of health damage caused by the ingestion of contaminated fodder. An increase of Co concentration in soil, fodder, and blood owing to wastewater irrigation to crops was indicated as an outcome of this investigation. The results indicate that the Co toxicity in forage crops is attributed to Co bioaccumulation, transfer, and pollution load in the soil–water-cattle triangle. Efforts should be extended to avoid contamination of the food chain via Co-rich sewage water. Other nonconventional water resources should be used for forage irrigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imprudent use of pesticides in agriculture has resulted in increased concentrations of pesticides in food. Consumption of pesticide-contaminated vegetables can cause many chronic and acute health problems for consumers. Vegetables are an important part of the human diet as they are a source of vitamins and minerals. Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) is a frequently consumed vegetable in India and has high nutritional value. In the present study, cauliflower was scanned for organochlorines, organophosphates, synthetic pyrethroids and some other classes of pesticides. The pesticides were extracted from the vegetable using quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe extraction techniques, and the extracts were analysed on Gas Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). All samples were contaminated with pesticide residues. The pesticides detected in the samples were aldrin (0.018 mg/kg), chlorpyrifos (0.02 - 0.04 mg/kg), cypermethrin (0.03 mg/kg), deltamethrin (0.018 - 0.04 mg/kg), malathion (0.02 mg/kg), o,p-dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (0.02mg/kg), and phorate (0.02 - 0.03 mg/kg). Cauliflower samples collected from Manesar showed the presence of chlorpyrifos and cypermethrin. Concentrations of chlorpyrifos were above the maximum residue limits recommended by the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act, 2004. The health risk index was highest for aldrin (0.08) and lowest for malathion (2.67·10-5).

Heavy metal (HM) pollution remains a pressing global concern, affecting soil regarding food safety, and negatively influencing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We investigated the efficacy of untreated cypress biochar (UCB) and Ca-modified cypress biochar (MCB) in mitigating HM contamination and enhancing growth across native and contaminated soils (40 mg/kg) in carrot pot experiments. Both biochar types were pyrolyzed at 900 °C and applied at rates of 3 %, 6 %, and 9 %. We found that carrot growth parameters significantly improved, particularly with 6 % UCB also for the contaminated soil. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis showed that both UCB and MCB reduced HM concentrations in the edible part of carrots grown in native and contaminated soils. Pb concentration declined from 1.3 mg/kg to below the detection limit (< 0.3 mg/kg), Zn concentrations decreased from 50.3 mg/kg to 39.8 mg/kg (9 % UCB) and to 36.8 mg/kg (9 % MCB), while Cu concentrations reduced from 35.3 mg/kg to 25.9 mg/kg (9 % UCB) and to 22.6 mg/kg (9 % MCB). MCB, characterized by high pH (9.7) and active nano-sized CaCO 3 particles, demonstrated superior HM immobilization compared to UCB. Statistical analysis supported the superior efficacy of MCB in reducing HM bioavailability and uptake. Understanding the specific responses of different plant species to biochar amendments is essential for recommending broader applications of MCB for soil remediation and sustainable agriculture. [Display omitted] • Ca-impregnated cypress biochar (MCB) was used to immobilize Pb, Zn, and Cu in contaminated soil. • XRF analyzer was used to determine heavy metals in soil, biochar and carrot parts. • MCB enhanced immobilization through elevated pH and highly active nano sized CaCO 3 particles. • MCB decline the BF, TF and HRI values associated with HM exposure. • Statistical analysis revealed MCB showed superior performance compared to UCB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Need for irrigated agriculture is rising daily, but quality water for irrigation is on the decline, necessitating the use of urban wastewater as alternative source, particularly in low or middle income countries. This study assessed the effect of urban wastewater irrigation on the quality of groundwater, soil and vegetables in farms around Faisalabad, Pakistan. Human health risks of heavy metals were investigated through consumption of wastewater irrigated vegetables. Samples of soil, vegetables and water were obtained and analyzed for heavy metal concentrations (cadmium, Cd; lead, Pb; manganese, Mn; nickel, Ni; cobalt, Co; and zinc, Zn). The groundwater could be declared safe for consumption in the present state, as concentration of heavy metals standards. But wastewater-irrigated vegetables had higher Pb, Cd and Mn than the permissible limits. In wastewater-irrigated vegetables, highest HRI-Pb was recorded in mustard leaf and cabbage and was >1. EF for Zn and Mn in all vegetable plants, Ni in potato and cauliflower, Pb in mustard leaf and cabbage were >1.5, suggesting that the metals were generated by anthropogenic processes (such as wastewater irrigation). Long-term irrigation of farmlands with the wastewater will result to heavy metal contamination of groundwater, soil and vegetables in the study area. Therefore, strategies to save the groundwater from future contamination are necessary.

Road surfaces and vehicular traffic contribute to heavy metals (HM) contamination of soil and plants, which poses various health risks to humans by entering the food chain. It is imperative to evaluate the status of contamination with HM and associated health risks in soils and plants, especially food crops. In this regard, five crop species, i.e., strawberry (Fragaria ananassa), wheat (Triticum aestivum), tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum), sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum), and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), were evaluated at 0–10, 10–50, and 50–100 m distance from the highway near the urban area (Takht Bhai) of Mardan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) accumulation, phenolics, carotenoids, chlorophyll, and proline contents in plant parts were assessed. Pb and Cd in plants decreased with an increase in distance. Pb was above the critical limit in all plants except wheat, Cd exceeded the permissible level of the World Health Organization in all plants except wheat and tomato. Pb and Cd were higher in strawberries. Tomato and strawberry fruits, tobacco leaves, and sugarcane stems showed higher Pb contents at a 0–10 m distance. Phenolic contents in leaves were higher than in roots. The target hazard quotient (THQ) in edible parts of most crops has been greater than one, which presents a threat to human health upon consumption. To the best of our knowledge, this study presents the first holistic approach to assess metal contamination in the selected area, its accumulation in field-grown edible crops, and associated health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article focuses on the toxic element chromium (Cr) in wastewater, its incorporation into soil plant systems, and its relevant toxicity in the food chain as assessed by a health risk assessment from dietary intake. The Nili Ravi buffalo is an important cattle inhabiting Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan, and forage crops grown on soils contaminated with Cr might cause toxicity in the food chain by local inhabitants eating meat. The soil, forage and animal blood samples were collected from five different locations in Tehsil Sahiwal (Chak Dhool, Bagabalocha, Chandia, Dhool Bala and Kakrani) twice at six-month intervals. A total of 30 samples from each ecological zone were collected from the soil and forage crops (Zea mays, Sorghum bicolor, Trifolium alexandrinum). The samples from zone-V and zone-IV showed the maximum concentration of Cr because these areas receive highly contaminated water for irrigation. The Cr was greater than the permissible limits. Environmental indices for all samples ranged below 1. The bioaccumulation and pollution load of Cr in soil and forage crops due to wastewater irrigation can contaminate the whole food chain via the soil, forages and animals. The health risk index (HRI) and a high value of enrichment factor were found for Cr in some sites. The Cr concentration was higher during the summer season than winter. Fodder crops with different concentrations and an elevated level of Cr were observed in maize. Attention should be paid when wastewater is used for fodder crop irrigation and its potential risks to human health following dairy product (milk, meat) entry into the food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was carried out to evaluate heavy metals concentration and their human health risk in some selected crops grown on – farm at close proximity (seven meters away) to Lapite dumpsite in Ibadan. Soil samples: of 0 – 15 and 15 – 30 cm depths were randomly collected, while Xanthosoma sagititolium (cocoyam), Zea mays (maize) and Musa paradisiaca (plantain) grown on-farm were collected at harvest. Soil and crop samples were packed separately, laid out in a completely randomized design and replicated three times. Samples were dried separately, digested and analyzed for heavy metals (Cu, Co and Pb) using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry with standard procedures. Transfer factor (TF) associated with heavy metals concentration and Health Risk Index (HRI) were also determined. Data collected were analyzed using ANOVA at p < 0.05. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the heavy metal concentrations in the soil and crop samples. In soil their levels followed this trend: Pb>Cu>Co with values ranging from 11.53-49.0 mg/kg which were within the permissible limit. The concentrations in crop samples were: Cu>Co>Pb for plantain, Cu>Pb>Co for maize and Cu>Pb>Co for cocoyam. Heavy metals in plantain ranged from 1.83-5.37 mg/kg, maize 0.62-2.50 mg/kg and 0.82-6.82 mg/kg for cocoyam, which were higher than the permissible limit. The highest TF was in Cu (0.3) >0.05, while lowest value was from Pb (0.03) <0.05 in cocoyam, respectively. The HRI of heavy metals in the crop samples followed this trend: Pb>Cu>Co with their values ranging from 0.001- 0.224 which were all <1. This study revealed that heavy metals in both soil depths were within the permissible levels, while Cu and Pb levels in Xanthosoma sagititolium, Zea mays and Musa paradisiaca were above the safe limit level with the exception of Co. However, Transfer Factor (except Cu >0.05) and Health Risk Index showed that all crops were < 0.05 and 1.00, respectively. This indicated that the populace that consumes the crops are not at risk, although ill-health could occur over time through bioaccumulation. Therefore, Lapite dumpsite and crops grown around should be properly monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oreochromis noliticus (Tilapia fish) is one of the major sources of protein and its readily available in all the markets, Agboyi river is one of the major outlet of Tilapia fish in the southwest Nigeria this was the motivation for this study. Pb, Cr, Mn, Cd, Zn and Ni were identified from Oreochromis noliticus (Tilapia fish). Objectives: This study aimed to quantify the level of heavy metals and determine the health risk index (HRI) level using estimated daily intake (EDI) of Oreochromis noliticus in samples collected. Methodology: Oreochromis noliticus samples were collected (samples D1 to D3) from Agboyi river a fresh water river, and dried then the edible tissues were separated from the other parts of the fish, this was then digested for a Perkin-Elmer model 306 Atomic Absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) for the analysis to ascertain the levels of concentration of the metals identified in the samples. Results: From the samples D1 to D8, for Pb concentrations is the highest in sample D8 with the value of 7:32±0:65 mg/kg and lowest in the sample D6 with the value of 0:02± 0:33 mg/kg. The Ni concentration is highest in sample D5 with value 2:72 ± 0:03 mg/kg, lowest in sample D6, D8 and not detectable (ND) in sample D1. Zn concentration is highest in sample D3 with the mean concentration of 62:99 ± 0:05 mg/kg and lowest in sample D6 with a value of 0:74 ± 0:14 mg/kg. Cr mean concentration in D3 and D6 are 8:51±0:54 mg/kg and 0:02±0:63 mg/kg respectively the highest and the lowest in all the samples. Whereas, Mn mean concentration are 9:51 ± 0:42 mg/kg and 0:73 ± 0:07 mg/kg in sample D4 and D7 respectively and this implies that sample D4 has the highest while sample D7 has the lowest values of Mn. Cd has the highest mean concentration values in D1 and the lowest in D6 with values of 5:76±0:66 mg/kg and 0:01±0:68 mg/kg respectively. These values where used to compute the EDI for both children and adults using each sample per heavy metal identified. The EDI for the children is within the range of 0.012-0.638 mg/kgBw/day and for the adults within the range of 0.002-0.193 mg/kgBw/day. The health risk index (HRI) greater than unity in samples D1 and D3, whereas in other samples is less than unity. The targeted cancer risk (TCR) was estimated in Pb and Ni obtained results were less than USEPA 2010 recommended values. Conclusion: From the obtained results, the HRI obtained from the samples collected did not exceed the standard guideline values, so therefore; the estimated hazard index (HI) suggests that it safe to consume fish from Agboyi River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND In recent years, with the improvement of people's quality of life, people pay more and more attention to health, and thus endemic fluorosis attracts more and more attention. While paying attention to the analysis of the fluorine pollution source and research on exposure pathways, it is also necessary to carry out health risk evaluations of fluorine exposure pathways. According to the survey, the fluorine content in the surface soil of Pengbao Town, Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City is higher than the local background value. OBJECTIVES To investigate the effect of fluorine on human health. METHODS The health risk assessment model recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency was used to assess the human health risk. According to the actual situation of endemic diseases caused by excessive fluorine, the samples of surface soil, stratum rocks, crops and groundwater in Pengbao Town, Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City were collected. The related elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry and other analytical methods to study the influence of excessive fluorine on human health in Pengbao Town of Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City. RESULTS The evaluation results showed that the health risk index (HQ) of fluorine exposure pathways in cereals and vegetables was less than 1, and there was no non-carcinogenic risk. The main way of exposure risk of local fluorine was drinking groundwater, and the related health risk index (HQ) was more than 1, which indicated that drinking groundwater with excessive fluorine may have potential non-carcinogenic risk. The annual total health risk was 1.69×10-8, which was lower than the maximum acceptable annual health risk level of 5.0×10-5 recommended by the International Commission for Radiological Protection (ICRP). CONCLUSIONS Based on the results of the fluorine health risk assessment, it is proposed that the safety of drinking water in this area needs more attention.

Lead (Pb) from different sources accumulate in the irrigation water, irrigated soil and in different parts of plants. Reports show contradictory findings and high variability of lead accumulation and associated public health risks. We hypothesized that lead accumulation in irrigation water, soil and edible plants is high enough to be a public health risk. By using the standard procedures for meta-analysis, 24 studies were qualified. The studies included in the meta-analysis are concentrated in few countries with strong authors' key words co-occurrence relationship. The mean concentration of Pb in the irrigation wastewater ranged from 0.0196 ± 0.01 mg/l to 52.4 ± 0.02 mg/l in wastewater and about 50% of the values are beyond the limits for irrigation water standard. The study also showed that the concentration of Pb in the irrigated soil vary significantly from a minimum of 0.04 ± 2.3 mg/l in Ethiopia to a maximum of 441 ± 19.8 mg/l in Iran (P < 0.01). Based on effect size analysis, the weight of the studies ranged from 0.1 to 5.4% indicating that the studies' contribution to the overall effect is barely different. The heterogeneity test statistics also indicates considerable variability between the studies (I2 = 98%, P-value < 0.001). The subgroup analysis showed large between-studies heterogeneity in both groups (Tau2 = 28.64; T2 = 98%). A total of 44 crops were studied, of which 38 were leafy and non-leafy vegetables. Most popular crops including spinach, cabbage and lettuce are most frequently studied crops. In all crops, the Pb level in crops produced by using untreated wastewater are beyond the WHO limit for edibility. In all of the studies, the pollution load index (PLI) and soil accumulation factor (SAF) is much higher indicating that there is a buildup of Pb concentration in wastewater irrigated soil. The plant concentration factor (PCF) calculated shows the high Pb accumulation potential of the edible parts of the crops. The health risk index (HRI) calculated shows that in all of the studied crops from India, Iraq, Morocco and Egypt are much higher than one indicating the high health risk of consumption.

Physiological, agricultural and toxicological impact of an excess of Zn in the soil is an important issue, as Zn is a heavy metal and impairs many processes of plants and animals. The novelty of this work is that it is a comprehensive approach to facilitate visualization not only of the condition of cabbage plants under Zn stress, but also prediction of the toxicity associated with consumption of such cabbages. We treated plants of two cabbage cultivars, differing in their earliness, with 50 and 200 mg Zn kg−1 soil (Zn50 and Zn200, respectively) above the natural Zn levels of 118.13 mg kg−1 soil (Zn0). Leaf cell membrane integrity, condition of the photosynthetic apparatus (reflected by relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) and Fv/Fm parameter of chlorophyll a fluorescence), head biomass, and Zn bioaccumulation in the heads were analyzed. Toxicological risk was also assessed by Daily Intake of Metal (DIM) and Health Risk Index (HRI) indicators. The data revealed that plants of the late cultivar were more sensitive to soil Zn than those of the early one. Detrimental effects of Zn (especially at the higher dose, Zn200) were manifested in the seedlings just after three weeks of treatment, and then reflected in the yield. We assume that, due to their fast and prolonged response to Zn, the seedlings of the late cultivar can be used as biomarkers of Zn toxicity. Although Zn plants did not indicate toxicological risk, based on DIM and HRI, Zn concentration in the soil should be taken into account prior to cabbage planting, because plants which do not reveal symptoms of injury can accumulate Zn above the permissible level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring of heavy metals in agricultural soils and the crops grown in them is essential to design mitigation strategies to reduce toxic heavy metals in diet and food chains. We determined chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) concentrations in the soil–plant system from agricultural fields of Siran Valley, Mansehra, Pakistan, to assess their potential health risk. Although the concentrations of the heavy metals in soils were within the permissible limits for agricultural soils, heavy metal concentrations in many of the vegetables exceeded the recommended safe values. Among the six leafy vegetables tested, all had greater than safe limits for As, four also for Cr and two also for Cd. As level was greater than safe limits in all five fruit and flower vegetables, two had Cr, and one had Pb also at unsafe levels. Among the five tuber, bulb, and root vegetables, As was higher than safe limits in all and Cd in one. The transfer factor in all three categories of vegetables followed the descending order Cd > As > Cr > Pb. Daily intake of metals were within limit set by USEPA for all heavy metals except As. The health risk indices for Cr, As, Cd, and Pb indicated that values greater than 1 for As suggest that the vegetables studied here pose a risk of chronic arsenic poisoning, but other heavy metals do not pose such a risk. Our study reinforces the need for mitigation strategies to reduce unsafe levels of heavy metals in vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination in water, soil and crops has become an increasing health problem. The present study aimed to investigate potential health risks to public health by evaluating the mean metal concentrations in water, soil and Cucurbita maxima (pumpkin) samples collected from three different irrigation areas using canal water (CWI), groundwater (GWI) and municipal wastewater (MWI). Concentrations of copper (Cu), lead (Pb), iron (Fe), cobalt (Co), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni) in collected soil and vegetable samples were estimated through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Molybdenum (Mo) level in the specimens was analysed by graphite furnace and the flow injection hydride generation AAS was employed for arsenic (As) and the fluorometric method was used for determination of selenium (Se) contents. The metal concentrations in pumpkin samples were ranged from 7.75 to 9.01, 2.82 to 4.03, 0.43 to 0.74, 34.41 to 41.60, 16.76 to 20.15, 29.87 to 34.15, 6.86 to 8.99, 5.99 to 7.86, 3.55 to 3.91 and 0.13 to 0.16 mg/kg for Mo, As, Se, Fe, Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb, Cd and Co, respectively. Likewise, the concentrations of Pb, Mo and Cd in the pumpkin at all irrigation sites were estimated to be above the respective maximum permissible levels. Arsenic, at the MWI site, posed the highest risk threat (HRI = 77. 34) for public health. The highest pollution load index (PLI) was estimated for Ni (4.21) at the GWI site indicating soil contamination. According to the findings of this study, the amount of potentially toxic metals in all sample waters, especially municipal wastewater, is at a level that may pose a risk to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluation of groundwater quality and related health hazards is a prerequisite for taking preventive measures. The rural region of Telangana, India, has been selected for the present study to assess the sources and origins of inferior groundwater quality and to understand the human health risk zones for adults and children due to the consumption of nitrate ( NO 3 - )- and fluoride (F−)-contaminated groundwater for drinking purposes. Groundwater samples collected from the study region were determined for various chemical parameters. Groundwater quality was dominated by Na+ and HCO 3 - ions. Piper's diagram and bivariate plots indicated the carbonate water type and silicate weathering as a main factor and man-made contamination as a secondary factor controlling groundwater chemistry; hence, the groundwater quality in the study region is low. According to the Groundwater Quality Index (GQI) classification, 48.3% and 51.7% of the total study region are excellent (GQI: < 50) and good (GQI: 50 to 100) water quality types, respectively, for drinking purposes. However, NO 3 - ranged from 0.04 to 585 mg/L, exceeding the drinking water quality limit of 45 mg/L in 34% of the groundwater samples due to the effects of nitrogen fertilizers. This was supported by the relationship of NO 3 - with TDS, Na+, and Cl−. The F− content was from 0.22 to 5.41 mg/L, which exceeds the standard drinking water quality limit of 1.5 mg/L in 25% of the groundwater samples. The relationship of F− with pH, Ca2+, Na+, and HCO 3 - supports the weathering and dissolution of fluoride-rich minerals for high F− content in groundwater. They were further supported by a principal component analysis. The Health Risk Index (HRI) values ranged from 0.20 to 20.10 and 0.36 to 30.90 with a mean of 2.82 and 4.34 for adults and children, respectively. The mean intensity of HRI (> 1.0) was 1.37 times higher in children (5.70) than in adults (4.16) due to the differences in weight size and exposure time. With an acceptable limit of more than 1.0, the study divided the region into Northern Safe Health Zone (33.3% for adults and 28.1% for children) and Southern Unsafe Health Zone (66.7% for adults and 71.9% for children) based on the intensity of agricultural activity. Therefore, effective strategic measures such as safe drinking water, denitrification, defluoridation, rainwater harvesting techniques, sanitary facilities, and chemical fertilizer restrictions are recommended to improve human health and protect groundwater resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of pesticide residues in agricultural products is posing serious health concerns for consumers. This study monitored the concentrations of pesticide residues in some selected fruit and vegetables, and their potential health risks were also assessed. Organochlorine (OCPs) and organophosphate (OPPs) residues were extracted and quantified with a gas chromatography-pulsed flame photometric detector. A total of 38 pesticide residues were identified and the results showed mean concentration (mg/kg fresh weight) of (OCPs) residues ranging from 0.02 to 0.37 and (OPPs) residues ranging from 0.01 to 0.33. The concentrations (mg/kg) of isodrin, heptachlor, dicofol, prothiophos, profenofos and dichlorvos were above the maximum residue limit. The non-carcinogenic health risk estimates revealed a possible potential health risk from consumption of the fruits and vegetables in adults and children for most of the pesticide residues. The cancer risk assessment estimates gave values below 10−6 which suggests no probable cancer risk. As a result of the increasing trend in pesticide use in Nigeria, routine monitoring of pesticide residues in agricultural produce is a necessity to ensure the safety of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Rice is the most important agricultural crop and the main food in Gilan and Mazandaran Provinces in northern Iran where organophosphorus pesticides, especially diazinon, are used. The excessive use of this insecticide in the paddy fields of Rasht County is a serious threat to people’s health.Methods: In this study, 30 rice samples were collected from five zones in the paddy fields of Rasht in summer. The samples were analyzed when rice is sold to assess the health risk caused by diazinon residues in rice. Following the digestion process, the samples were injected into a High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) instrument. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and one-sample t-test were respectively used for analyzing data and the Health Risk Index (HRI) for assessing the risk of rice consumption. Results: According to the results, the mean residual diazinon concentration in the rice crops of the five studied zones at the time of consumption (three months after harvest) was 0.4±0.43 mg/kg-1. This was higher than the Iranian standard for permissible diazinon concentration in rice. The results of the health risk assessment for rice consumption indicated an HRI value of 0.13 for rice consumption, which did not constitute a serious risk for people who consume rice regularly. Conclusion: Although the results of this study showed that there are no potential health risks for consumers, with increasing the use of chemical pesticides for crops, to achieve food safety, regular monitoring of pesticide residues in crops is recommended.

Metal pollution is a significant environmental and health problem in aquatic ecosystems worldwide, particularly in coastal systems impacted by emissions from thermoelectric plants, as is the case of the Tampamachoco lagoon. To evaluate the seasonal contamination levels of Cd, Pb, Cr, and Cu in species of commercial interest in the Tampamachoco lagoon and estimate the health risk associated with their consumption, a total of 180 fish, 90 oysters (Crassostrea virginica), 27 crabs (Callinectes sapidus), and 24 shrimp (Litopenaeus setiferus) were sampled. Metal concentrations in the species analyzed were Cu > Pb > Cr > Cd. According to the Target Hazard Quotient and the health risk index, consumption of the marine species examined should be considered safe for human health, as both values are <1. However, Carcinogenic risk values for Pb and Cr indicated that consumers may be at risk of cancer (10−3), due to exposure from the thermoelectric emissions. [Display omitted] • The study established the baseline for health risk factors in the Gulf of Mexico. • Benthic species of the estuarine lagoon ecosystem exceeded the Pb and Cd MPL. • Non-carcinogenic assessment revealed low risk for consumer's health. • Young adults showed higher risk of carcinogenic effects; above the threshold of 10−3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal contamination poses a significant threat to soil quality, plant growth, and food safety, and directly affects multiple UN SDGs. Addressing this issue and offering a remediation solution are vital for human health. One effective approach for immobilizing heavy metals involves impregnating cypress chips with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH) 2) to enhance the chemical adsorption capacity of the resulting woody charcoal. In the present study, un-treated cypress biochar (UCBC) and calcium-treated cypress biochar (TCBC), were introduced into pristine and contaminated soil, at rates of 3, 6, and 9% (w/w). Both BCs were alkaline (UCBC pH: 8.9, TCBC pH: 9.7) with high specific surface area, which improved the soil properties (pH, EC, and OM). Radish (Raphanus sativus) cultivated in pots revealed that both UCBC and TCBC demonstrated significant improvements in growth attributes and heavy metal immobilization compared to the control, with TCBC exhibiting superior effects. The TCBC surface showed highly active nanosized precipitated calcium carbonate particles that were active in immobilizing heavy metals. The application of TCBC at a rate of 9% resulted in a substantial reduction in Zn and Cu uptake by radish roots and shoots. In contaminated soil, Zn uptake by radish roots decreased by 55% (68.3–31.0 mg kg−1), and shoots by 37% (49.3–31.0 mg kg−1); Cu uptake decreased by 40% (38.6–23.2 mg kg−1) in roots and 39% (58.2–35.2 mg kg−1) in shoots. Uptake of Pb was undetectable after TCBC application. Principal component analysis (PCA) highlighted the potential of TCBC over UCBC in reducing heavy metal concentrations and promoting radish growth. Future research should consider the long-term effects and microbial interactions of TCBC application. [Display omitted] • To immobilize Zn, Cu, and Pb in soil, a novel biochar (TCBC) was prepared. • TCBC improved soil properties and radish growth attributes. • TCBC resulted in a substantial reduction in Zn, Cu, and Pb in radish roots and shoots. • Highly active nano-sized CaCO 3 particles in TCBC-immobilized heavy metals. • TCBC consistently outperformed UCBC in terms of immobilization properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals load in fish environment and fish products had been an issue of public concern. The burden of some heavy metals in fresh tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), frozen Herring (Clupea harengus), smoked herring, and associated risk to man was investigated. Atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine metal concentrations. Standard risk measurement indices [daily metal intake (DMI), hazard quotient (HQ), and health risk index (HRI)] were used. Levels of Mn and Fe were significantly different (p<0.05) among the fish species, while the burden of other metals was low to not detected in the samples. The level of Cu (0.11±0.04), Zn (2.51±0.82), and Fe (8.72±4.41) were recorded in the bones of smoked herrings, while the highest levels of Mg were recorded in fresh tilapia. Gills recorded significantly (p<0.05) high levels of Mg (1.16±0.02), Fe (14.92±0.53), Cu (0.10±0.00), and Zn (1.35±0.04). The muscle of the frozen herring records the highest burden of these metals. Mn, Fe, Cu, and Cd revealed the highest HRI in all fish samples and age categories, especially for nine years old and below children. In conclusion, health fish indicators revealed that Mn, Fe, Cu, and Cd pose a risk to the populace and, with long time consumption, can do more damage to consumers, especially frozen herring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salicornia species are halophyte plants that are an important source for food, pharmacy, and bioenergy. They can be consumed as a leafy vegetable, but they can accumulate heavy metals that carry a health risk when knowledge of how each species behaves in different types of soil is lacking. This present work aimed to determine to what extent S. ramosissima can be cultivated as food in estuaries contaminated by heavy metals and to what extent it can be used in phytoremediation works, by studying its behavior in populations that grow naturally in contaminated soils. We analyzed accumulation and translocation in different parts of the plant for 14 heavy metals and calculated the Health Risk Index value associated with their consumption as a leafy vegetable. The results obtained mean that the S. ramosissima plants that grow in most of the soils of this estuary are unfit for human consumption in some of the populations studied. In conclusion, Salicornia ramosissima J. Woods can accumulate Cd, As, and Pb—among other metals—in its leaves so its consumption should be limited to plants that grow in soils free of these metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals load in fish environment and fish products had been an issue of public concern. The burden of some heavy metals in fresh tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), frozen Herring (Clupea harengus), smoked herring, and associated risk to man was investigated. Atomic absorption spectrometry was used to determine metal concentrations. Standard risk measurement indices [daily metal intake (DMI), hazard quotient (HQ), and health risk index (HRI)] were used. Levels of Mn and Fe were significantly different (p<0.05) among the fish species, while the burden of other metals was low to not detected in the samples. The level of Cu (0.11±0.04), Zn (2.51±0.82), and Fe (8.72±4.41) were recorded in the bones of smoked herrings, while the highest levels of Mg were recorded in fresh tilapia. Gills recorded significantly (p<0.05) high levels of Mg (1.16±0.02), Fe (14.92±0.53), Cu (0.10±0.00), and Zn (1.35±0.04). The muscle of the frozen herring records the highest burden of these metals. Mn, Fe, Cu, and Cd revealed the highest HRI in all fish samples and age categories, especially for nine years old and below children. In conclusion, health fish indicators revealed that Mn, Fe, Cu, and Cd pose a risk to the populace and, with long time consumption, can do more damage to consumers, especially frozen herring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The problem of high content of heavy metals in food has spread broadly over the world. The presented study suggests the minimization of heavy metal content in processed food due to different applied techniques such as the frying, boiling, steaming and sous-vide. Three main food products were chosen for investigation – Daucus carota subsp. Sativus (carrot), Solanum tuberosum (potato) and Allium cepa (onion). The concentration of heavy metals (Zn, Pb, Mn, Cd, Cu) was determined in samples investigated by atomic-absorption spectrometer. The health risk index (HRI) was calculated based on obtained data. In all investigated samples, high concentration of lead was identified among the heavy metals. The highest concentration of zinc, lead and manganese was determined in boiled Daucus carota subsp. Sativus, cadmium – in sous - vide Daucus carota subsp. Sativus, copper – in steamed Daucus carota subsp. Sativus. HRI values of cadmium for Solanum tuberosum samples were ranged from 6.8 to 7.1 and for lead are ranged between 3.4 and 4.9. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar production via pyrolysis is a promising option for treating sewage sludge (SS). Here we investigated the uptake of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) from SS and its biochar (450 °C) into cherry tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) plants and their fruits in pot experiments (2, 5 and 10%), to assess the health risks associated with fruit consumption. We further studied the ability of the PTE-rich amendments to immobilize PTEs already present in soil through spiking of soil (pH 7.4) with Cd, Cu and Zn. Our findings suggest that tomato consumption is not a human health risk when grown in soil amended with SS and its biochar; in most treatments PTE uptake into fruits was similar to the control. Vegetative plant growth was highest in SS-amended soils. Yet 5 and 10% biochar-amended soils significantly increased tomato fruit yield relative to untreated SS application (400–500% higher than 10% SS-amended soil) and significantly decreased fruit uptake of Cu and Zn. Importantly, biochar also significantly immobilized PTEs present in contaminated (spiked) soil. As expected, available (DTPA-extractable) PTE contents were typically lower in biochar-amended soil and sequential extraction indicated that the PTEs were predominantly bound in more recalcitrant soil fractions (organic matter associated and Fe–Mn oxides-bound). We conclude that pyrolysis can be a key technology for treatment of PTE-rich SS and subsequent use of the produced biochar in urban, and potentially even PTE-contaminated, horticultural sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wastewater contains a surplus amount of trace metals that contaminate the soil and crops. A pot trial was performed to determine the impact of wastewater on the zinc accumulation in forages and their associated health risk. Forages both of summer (Zea mays, Echinochloa colona, Pennisetum typhoideum, Sorghum vulgare, Sorghum bicolor, Sesbania rostrata, and Cyamopsis tetragonoloba) and winter (Trifolium alexandrinum, Medicago sativa, Brassica campestris, Trifolium resupinatum, Brassica juncea, and Brassica napus) were grown with sewage water and tap water treatment. The experiment was laid down in a completely randomized design with five replicates. The concentration of zinc in water, root and forage samples were analysed by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. In tap water, the zinc value was 0.498 mg/L and in wastewater 0.509 mg/L, respectively. The maximum level of zinc in the forages leaves was 3.582 mg/kg found in Brassica napus grown in the winter season. The maximum observed value for zinc bioconcentration factor in Brassica juncea was (2.88) grown in winter. The values of pollution load index for zinc were found less than 1. The values of daily intake of metal and health risk index for zinc in all forages were less than 1 indicated that consumption of these forages was free of risk.

Abstract An integrated study of health risk assessment, pollution indices and cluster analysis has been carried out to assess the pollution and heavy metal sources in the groundwater. Certain elements analyzed exceed the prescribed limits of WHO standard. Health risk index reveals risk of toxicity through oral pathways is less, as almost all trace elements are

The aim of this study was to investigate the uptake and accumulation of heavy metals including cadmium, chromium, iron, nickel, and lead in 8 food crops irrigated with industrial wastewater and correlate the levels with potential human health risks. The concentrations of these metals in the food crops irrigated with wastewater decreased in the order iron (Fe) ˃ chromium (Cr) ˃ cadmium (Cd) ˃ nickel (Ni) ˃ lead (Pb). In all cases, the metallic contents in the vegetables exceeded the safe limits recommended by FAO/WHO. The highest bioaccumulation factor was recorded for cadmium. Further, the health risk indices of cadmium and lead were greater than 1 in seven food crops. For nickel, health risk was exceeded only for Pisum sativum and Solanum tuberosum. The indices for various food crops were in decreasing order: Cd > Pb > Ni > Cr > Fe. Out of 8 food crops, only Cantiquorum antiquorum showed risk indices lower than 1 for all 5 metals. Data demonstrated that food crops irrigated with wastewater in this study area are highly metal contaminated and may constitute a serious health risk to the local human and animal populations.

Morels (Morchella spp.) are wild edible mushrooms and are globally known for their high nutritional value. The current study aims at probing the heavy metal content in early emerging autumn-type Morchella galilaea that occurs exclusively in the irrigated plains of Charsadda, Pakistan. The identification of samples was conducted through morphology and internal transcribed spacer sequence (ITS) data. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer was employed to analyze the soil and M. galilaea samples for heavy metals including Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Cu. The heavy metal content in soil samples was within the permissible limits of SEPA China and WHO, USA with few exceptions. The hymenophore (H) and fruiting bodies (FB) were also analyzed revealing these metals within the permissible limits set by WHO and SEPA. Further analysis indicated that heavy metal concentration in the fruiting body (FB) was higher compared to those in the hymenophore (H). The toxicological assessment revealed that the transfer factor (TF) was less than 1 with a significant difference (p < 0.05) among samples. The daily intake of metals and health risk index values for all samples were M. galilaea harvested from the wild has no toxicological hazards to human health, especially in the heavy metal concentration.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, with the improvement of people' s quality of life, people pay more and more attention to health, and thus endemic fluorosis attracts more and more attention. While paying attention to the analysis of the fluorine pollution source and research on exposure pathways, it is also necessary to carry out health risk evaluations of fluorine exposure pathways. According to the survey, the fluorine content in the surface soil of Pengbao Town, Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City is higher than the local background value . OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effect of fluorine on human health. METHODS: The health risk assessment model recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency was used to assess the human health risk. According to the actual situation of endemic diseases caused by excessive fluorine, the samples of surface soil, stratum rocks, crops and groundwater in Pengbao Town, Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City were collected. The related elements were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma - optical emission spectrometry, atomic fluorescence spectrometry and other analytical methods to study the influence of excessive fluorine on human health in Pengbao Town of Yuanzhou District, and Guyuan City. RESULTS: The evaluation results showed that the health risk index (HQ) of fluorine exposure pathways in cereals and vegetables was less than 1, and there was no non - carcinogenic risk. The main way of exposure risk of local fluorine was drinking groundwater, and the related health risk index ( HQ) was more than 1, which indicated that drinking groundwater with excessive fluorine may have potential non - carcinogenic risk. The annual total health risk was 1.69 x 108, which was lower than the maximum acceptable annual health risk level of 5.0 x 105 recommended by the International Commission for Radiological Protection ( ICRP ) . CONCLUSIONS: Based on the results of the fluorine health risk assessment, it is proposed that the safety of drinking water in this area needs more attention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the element content of wild edible and inedible mushroom species (Agaricus campestris, Armillaria ostoyae, Boletus reticulatus, Bondarzewia mesenterica, Bovistella utriformis, Cantharellus cibarius, Marasmius oreades, Megacollybia platyphylla, Meripilus giganteus, Neoboletus erythropus, Panellus stipticus, Phaeotremella foliacea, Pleurotus ostreatus, Podoscypha multizonata, Russula aurea, R. chloroides, R. virescens, T. versicolor, Trametes gibbose, and Trichaptum biforme) collected from the Belgrad Forests and the Ilgaz Mountain National Park. Based on the results of elemental analyses, daily metal intake (DMI) and health risk index (HRI) values of edible mushrooms collected from both localities were also calculated. As, Cd, Cr, Se, P, Hg, Cu, Mn, Fe, Zn, Al, Ca, Mg, and K contents of mushrooms were in the ranges of 0.16–3.45, 0.09–2.4, 0.15–2.34, 0.3–8.13, 0.28–11.44, 14.03–37.81, 3.87–108.57, 6.18–149.77, 11.9–776.1, 5.4–317.4, 7.4–355.2, 15.4–3517.3, 266.0–2500.0, and 628.0–24083.0 mg/kg dry weight, respectively. As a result of the DMI and HRI analyses, Cu concentration of B. utriformis (DMI: 46.53 μg/kg body weight/serving, HRI: 1.16) and Cd concentrations of A. campestris (DMI: 0.49 μg/kg body weight/serving, HRI: 1.36), A. ostoyae (DMI: 1.03 μg/kg body weight/serving, HRI: 2.86), B. utriformis (DMI: 0.52 μg/kg body weight/serving, HRI: 1.44), and P. ostreatus (DMI: 0.45 μg/kg body weight/serving, HRI: 1.24) were found to exceed the legal limits determined by authorities. It was concluded that the species collected from the regions in question should be consumed in a controlled manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Farmers use wastewater for irrigation in many developing countries, for example Bangladesh, India, China, Sri Lanka and Vietnam because they have limited access to clean water. This study explored cadmium (Cd) bioaccumulation in two spring wheat cultivars (cv. Mustang and Lancer), which were grown in different concentrations of Cd (0,1, 2, 4, and 8 mg kg−1) in agricultural soils. The half maximum inhibitory concentration (IC50) values were 4.21 ± 0.29 and 4.02 ± 0.95, respectively, whereas the maximum health risk index (HRI) was 3.85 ± 0.049 and 5.33 ± 0.271, respectively, for Mustang and Lancer. In other words, the malondialdehyde content increased significantly in Mustang (around five-fold) and Lancer (around four-fold) compared with the control treatment. Results revealed that Cd content was well above the acceptable limit (HRI >1) in the two cultivars when exposed to different levels of Cd stress. The tolerant cultivar (Mustang) has potential to chelate Cd in the nonedible parts of plants in variable fractions and can be used efficiently to improve growth and macro- and micro-nutrients content while reducing Cd concentration in plants in Cd-contaminated soil. It can also diminish the HRI, which may help to protect humans from Cd risks. The two cultivars’ nutrient availability and sorption capacity significantly shape their survival and adaptability under Cd stress. Based on what is documented in the current study, we can conclude that Mustang is more tolerant and poses fewer health hazards to people than Lancer because of its capacity to maintain grain macro- and micro-nutrients under Cd stress.

This study examined the levels of heavy metals in soil, water, and vegetables (amaranthus, hibiscussabdariffa, and allium cepa leaves) around the industrial area Bauchi, Northeastern Nigeria. The composite samples of soil, water, and vegetables were collected and determine the level of heavy metals (Mn, Zn, Cd, Pb, and As) using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The level of the heavy metals decreased in the order of Mn > Zn > Pb > Cd, Pb > Zn > Mn > Cd, and Mn > Zn > Mn > Cd in the soil, water, and vegetables respectively. Among the vegetables, amaranthus had the highest heavy metals level followed by allium cepa leaves and hibiscus sabdariffa. The levels of heavy metals obtained were below the tolerance level recommended by the world health organization (WHO). The bio-concentration factors of the heavy metals for the studied samples were below one except Zn in amaranthus. The daily intake of metals for Mn was found to be the highest in amaranthus for children and estimated to be 1.149 mg/person/day. Health risk index of Zn for amaranthus and allium cepa leaves for children and Pb for amaranthus, hibiscus sabdariffa and allium cepa leaves for both children and adults were above 1, except in hibiscus sabdariffa for adults, signifying provable of health risks for the consumption of the vegetables in the study area. Therefore, the consumption of these vegetables as food could pose a health hazard, and regular monitoring is recommended to prevent metal accumulation with their associated health implications in the consuming public. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild edible mushrooms are very popular for both their flavors and nutritional values. However, some mushroom species can be harmful to human health as they accumulate some elements in excessive amounts. The aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of Al, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, Se, and Zn of some wild edible (Agaricus arvensis, A. bitorquis, A. sylvaticus, Amanita vaginata, Armillaria mellea, Clavariadelphus pistillaris, Clitocybe nebularis, Clitopilus prunulus, Hygrophorus marzuolus, H. russula, Lactarius volemus, Lycoperdon molle, and Macrolepiota mastoidea) and non-edible mushroom species (A. citrina, Auricularia mesenterica, Chanterellus melanoxeros, Chondrostereum purpureum, Clathrus ruber, L. controversus, L. helvus, and L. zonarius) collected from Belgrad forest (Istanbul, Turkey). Daily intakes of element (DIE) and health risk index (HRI) values of the edible mushroom species were also calculated. The concentrations of the elements in question were determined to be in the ranges of 9.7–556.8, 2.5–2226.7, 0.06–2.52, 0.03–13.17, 3.74–100.19, 13.3–507.4, 2635.0–28614.0, 493.0–2412.0, 6.97–3150.73, 0.29–13.26, 0.38–3.67, and 9.1–293.8 mg/kg, respectively. The Cd concentration of H. russula (DIE: 1.08, HRI: 1.08), Cr concentration of C. nebularis (DIE: 5.64, HRI: 1.88), and the Cu concentration of M. mastoidea (DIE: 42.94, HRI: 1.07) were above the reference values. The results showed that the long-term consumption of H. russula, C. nebularis, and M. mastoidea collected from Belgrad forest can have a negative impact on human health. Therefore, it was concluded that the element concentrations of edible wild mushrooms in this region should be examined periodically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to assess the effects of green synthesized nanoparticles (GNPs) of Zn and Fe oxides on plant growth traits, photosynthetic capacity and nutritional quality of red radish (cv. Champion), two open field experiments were organised based on RCBD with four replicates. Treatments included: chicken manure, foliar application of ZnO + FeO (GNPs at a rate of 60 and 50 ppm, respectively), chicken manure plus ZnO + FeO (GNPs). This study revealed that growth and yield of radish plants significantly increased by ZnO + FeO nanoparticles application. The maximum vegetative growth, leaf pigments and root quality (diameter and weight) were recorded in plants treated with ZnO + FeO (GNPs) alone or in combination with chicken manure. Furthermore, the combined application of chicken manure with ZnO and FeO significantly improved the concentration of anthocyanins, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, crude protein and carbohydrates contents in radish root than single treatment. Similar trends were noted in photosynthesis rate, water use efficiency and values of Zn and Fe contents. In addition, health risk index for Zn and Fe were less than 1, which indicated to red radish plants supplied with ZnO and FeO GNPs were free of risks on human health. It was concluded that combination between chicken manure and ZnO + FeO GNPs can be considered as appropriate strategy for improving yield and nutritional status of red radish.