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BackgroundA growing body of literature investigated childhood exposure to environmental chemicals in association with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms, but limited studies considered urinary mixtures of multiple chemical classes. This study examined associations of concurrent exposure to non-persistent chemicals with ADHD symptoms in children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), developmental delay (DD), and typical development (TD).MethodsA total of 549 children aged 2-5 years from the Childhood Autism Risks from Genetics and Environment (CHARGE) case-control study were administered the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC). This study focused on the ADHD/noncompliance subscale and its two subdomains (hyperactivity/impulsivity, inattention). Sixty-two chemicals from four classes (phenols/parabens, phthalates, organophosphate pesticides, trace elements) were quantified in child urine samples, and 43 chemicals detected in > 70% samples were used to investigate their associations with ADHD symptoms. Negative binomial regression was used for single-chemical analysis, and weighted quantile sum regression with repeated holdout validation was applied for mixture analysis for each chemical class and all chemicals. The mixture analyses were further stratified by diagnostic group.ResultsA phthalate metabolite mixture was associated with higher ADHD/noncompliance scores (median count ratio [CR] = 1.10; 2.5th, 97.5th percentile: 1.00, 1.21), especially hyperactivity/impulsivity (median CR = 1.09; 2.5th, 97.5th percentile: 1.00, 1.25). The possible contributors to these mixture effects were di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) metabolites and mono-2-heptyl phthalate (MHPP). These associations were likely driven by children with ASD as these were observed among children with ASD, but not among TD or those with DD. Additionally, among children with ASD, a mixture of all chemicals was associated with ADHD/noncompliance and hyperactivity/impulsivity, and possible contributors were 3,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid, DEHP metabolites, MHPP, mono-n-butyl phthalate, and cadmium.ConclusionsEarly childhood exposure to a phthalate mixture was associated with ADHD symptoms, particularly among children with ASD. While the diverse diagnostic profiles limited generalizability, our findings suggest a potential link between phthalate exposure and the comorbidity of ASD and ADHD.

Boron- B is an essential element for the growth and development of plants. Its deficiency in hot, dry areas with calcareous soils can significantly reduce agricultural crop production. To study the impact of B fertilization, an experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with seven treatments, including control, foliar spray (0.5, 1, and 2 g L−1 boric acid), and fertigation (0.5, 1, and 2 g L−1 boric acid). The experiment, with three replicates, was carried out in greenhouse conditions on pepper plants (Capsicum annuum cv. Lorca). The highest fruit yield was achieved with foliar spray at a concentration of 0.5 g L−1 and fertigation at 1 g L−1. Overall, the use of B fertilizer increased the concentration of macronutrients such as potassium-K (up to 27.79%), phosphorus-P (up to 59%), calcium-Ca (up to 49.61%), and magnesium-Mg (up to 158%), as well as micronutrients like iron-Fe (up to 59.55%), manganese-Mn (up to 29.03%), zinc-Zn (up to 81.81%), copper-Cu (up to 49.33%), B (up to 180%), and sodium-Na (up to 85.19%). It also decreased the concentration of nitrogen-N (up to 15%), sulfur-S (up to 21.36%), and chlorine-Cl (up to 48.02%) in the leaf tissue of pepper plants compared to the control treatment. These changes were influenced by the B concentration and type of fertilization. The results indicate that in calcareous soils with high pH, both fertigation and foliar spray methods can effectively address B deficiency in pepper plants by enhancing element absorption and increasing yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop more sustainable purification and recovery processes, it is critical to accurately determine inorganic impurities of natural graphite (NG) and valuable elements present in low concentrations in steelmaking slag. This study applied three microwave-assisted acid digestion methods for basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag, NG, and NG ash. Nitric acid (HNO3), hydrochloric acid (HCl), and hydrogen fluoride (HF) were used in method 1. In method 2, method 1 was followed by microwave-assisted boric acid (H3BO3) digestion. In method 3, acids (HNO3, HCl, HF, and H3BO3) were added simultaneously. Concentrations were measured using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry. Analytical performance was evaluated using spiking recovery tests (NG) and certified reference (slag) material (CRM). Spiking recoveries for Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, and Si were between 5% and 116% (method 1) and 94%–116% (methods 2 and 3). CRM recoveries for Al, Ca, Fe, Mg, Mn, P, Si, Ti, and V were between 2% and 102% (method 1) and 92%–103% (methods 2 and 3). The unsuitability of method 1 was evident due to the low recoveries. Methods 2 and 3 digested Ca- and Si-containing BOF slag completely without visible residue. The sufficient recoveries verified the adequacy of the methods. The suitability of method 3 probably depended on the phases of samples, as quartz was not completely digested from the NG. Method 2 completely digested the inorganic material of NG, and the spiking test showed no loss of volatile silicon compounds. These methods have not been published for NG or NG ash and validated for slag before. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accurate measurement of metal concentrations in soil and water is vital for healthy crop production and decision making for environmental surveys. While there are a multitude of laboratory‐based soil analysis methods, such as inductively coupled plasma‐optical emission spectroscopy (ICP‐OES), flame emission spectrometry, and atomic absorption spectroscopy, most are time and resource intensive. Additionally, there is a lack of information for rapid analysis of elements for aqueous soil extractions. The goal of this research is to establish elemental correlations between portable X‐ray fluorescence (pXRF) measurements of Mehlich III soil extractions and traditional elemental measurements via ICP‐OES. We hypothesize that certain metals can be accurately measured in aqueous soil extraction solutions by pXRF to the same degree as they are measured by ICP‐OES. To test this hypothesis, Mehlich III and 2% nitric acid solutions with known elemental concentrations were analyzed via ICP‐OES and pXRF. Soil samples extracted using Mehlich III were compared between ICP‐OES and pXRF to verify correlations. High correlations were found for As, Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn in both the Mehlich III and 2% nitric acid solutions at concentrations between 5 and 85 mg L−1. P, S, and Si did not show high correlations at concentrations <100 mg L−1. These results indicate that between 5 and 85 mg L−1, pXRF analysis of aqueous solutions and soil extractions is a reliable technique; however, at low concentrations (i.e., <5 mg L−1 for metals and <100 mg L−1 for P and S), pXRF is not well suited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By means of salt‐bath austempering treatment, microstructure observation, X‐Ray diffraction analysis, microhardness measurement, and friction and wear performance tests for 8Cr4Mo4V steels with standard composition and with trace addition of 0.005% boron, the effect of boron on the phase composition and mechanical properties of the steel is studied. The results show that trace element boron greatly increases the content of needle‐like lower bainite in the quenched microstructure, promotes the dissolution of undissolved carbides, reduces the content of M/A island, but coarsens grains. After tempering, trace element B increases the amount of bainite generation, refines the lath martensite, and significantly promotes the precipitation of carbides, whose size is finer, and the distribution is more dispersed. In terms of mechanical properties, trace element B improves the hardness by promoting the precipitation of the second phase and refining the lath martensite, and the increase in the bainite content changes the wear mechanism and enhances the wear resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a special type of seep carbonate, the many details concerning the formation mode and mechanism of tubular seep carbonates are rarely reported. Here, new geochemical and mineralogical data regarding tubular seep carbonate (SQW-65) are reported. Sample SQW-65 had anomalously negative d13C values and positive d18Ovalues, which suggested the dissociation of gas hydrate. Additionally, almost all the sub-samples showed no Ce anomaly (Ce/Ce*average = 0.93), with obvious U enrichment (21.3< UEF <240.3), which indicates that the studied tubular seep carbonate was formed in an anoxic environment. Subsequently, the formation process of the studied tubular seep carbonate is further discussed according to the variability of mineralogical and geochemical characteristics from the rim to the core of the tubular formation. In the early stage of the studied tubular seep carbonate (periphery), owing to the influence of terrigenous components, the quartz and Ti content and Y/Ho ratio were high. However, with the formation of the periphery, the influence of terrigenous components was gradually weakened. In addition, from the rim to the core, the carbon and oxygen isotope values showed a "covariation" coupling relationship, an enrichment of U, and a reduction in total rare earth element content. This is because as the outer wall thickens and the internal fluid channel narrows, the intensity of the sulphatedriven anaerobic oxidation of methane and the associated precipitation rate of carbonate also increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary The instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) technology represents a highly efficient and eco‐friendly process that enhances the texture of food matrices. In this study, oleaster flour (OF) was subjected to DIC treatment at varying pressures (200 and 500 kPa) and processing times (30, 60, and 120 s) for the purpose of analysing its techno‐functional, chemical, concentration of bioactive components, and structural properties. The results demonstrated statistically significant differences between the untreated and DIC‐treated OF samples (P < 0.05). The application of DIC treatment resulted in a notable enhancement in the water activity, fat, ash, SDF, bound phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of the OF (P < 0.05). The mineral content and structural properties were analysed in two samples of OF (DIC‐treated at 200 and 500 kPa for 60 s), which were selected for their superior bioactive components in comparison to the untreated OF. The 200 and 500‐kPa 60‐s DIC treatment also enhanced the mineral (Cu, Na, Mn, Mg, P, Ca, Fe, and K) and structural properties of OF, thereby rendering it a more functional flour. The utilisation of the DIC method enhances the overall quality of the end product, resulting in a visually acceptable appearance, an extended shelf life and heightened nutritional content, thereby rendering the product more practical and convenient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the composition, distribution, and origins of rare, Noble, and fissionable elements for the first time in black sand deposits from the Northern Delta coastal region. The findings showed that among the elements under investigation, Fe, Ti, Mn, and Sn had the greatest mean levels, while Hf, Cd, and As had the lowest mean amounts. According to the study's elemental composition, black sand is thought to have economic worth for Ti, Zr, Hf, Sn, Ag, and W. The Zr, Co, Cd, Cu, Hf, V, W, and Zn correlation points to the same source origin. It is clear that the accessory mineral composition in the sediments under study especially the heavy ones controls the geochemical patterns of trace elements. The trace element concentrations of interest show a pattern of element variability related to the mineralogy of the sands, as indicated by the principal component analysis and cluster analysis. To explore and exploit heavy minerals in the research region, the study's findings are important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the existence of various elements in the universe has been extensive, but their role in the human body is not fully understood. About 98% of the human body mass consists of nine non-metallic elements, categorized into abundant and non-abundant/trace elements. Micronutrients, including trace elements, vitamins, and antioxidants, play a vital role in regenerative processes, coping with oxidative stress, and providing immunity against pathogens. Dental health is also dependent on these nutrients, which help in the production and development of oral mucosa, teeth, and surrounding tissues. The recommended intake of these nutrients remains variable due to factors such as geography, altitude, age, weight, physiological needs, pathological backlogs, and other recognizable/unrecognizable factors. Essential trace elements are broadly categorized into macro-elements, micro-elements or trace elements, probably essential elements, and potentially toxic elements. The current review focuses on the role of essential trace elements in maintaining oral health and their implications in various oral diseases and disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace elements released into the atmosphere by human activities, such as fossil fuel combustion, flow into forest ecosystems via wet and dry deposition and can flow out via mountainous stream water. The Kajikawa catchment site in Niigata Prefecture, located on the Sea of Japan side in central Japan, suffers from large amounts of acidic substance deposition due to its geographical conditions and meteorological seasonality and is affected by transboundary air pollution originating from the Asian continent due to northwesterly seasonal winds in winter. This study determined the concentrations of trace elements dissolved in precipitation and stream water to comprehensively evaluate the effects of transboundary air pollution on forest ecosystems. The results showed that the concentrations of trace elements and major inorganic ions in precipitation tended to be high in winter and low in summer. The fluxes of many trace elements also increased in winter, reflecting high precipitation amount. Except for Sr, the enrichment factors of the highly enriched trace elements did not show clear seasonality. Therefore, they were continuously influenced by anthropogenic activities. Furthermore, the stable Pb isotope ratio changed significantly during the observation period; however, this was not explained by seasonal changes. This study revealed that trace elements are transported to the Sea of Japan side in central Japan, especially in winter; however, their quantity and content change in response to changes in local and transboundary air pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

INTRODUCTION: Chromium is a vital trace mineral that appears to play a significant role in the modulation of insulin function and its impact on the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids. It is a crucial element for enhancing the efficacy of insulin. Research indicates that individuals with type 2 diabetes tend to have lower serum chromium levels compared to those without the condition. Insulin resistance serves as a common factor among various cardiovascular disease risk elements. Evidence suggests that chromium can diminish insulin resistance and potentially lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To study the impact of chromium supplementation of blood sugar levels, insulin levels and lipid profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. METHODS: This study is a randomized controlled trial involving 60 participants diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, who were divided into two groups: one receiving chromium supplementation and the other receiving a placebo. Fasting blood glucose levels, postprandial blood glucose levels, and lipid profiles were assessed at both the commencement and conclusion of the study. Participants were advised to maintain their usual dietary habits, lifestyle, and medication regimen. No significant alterations were noted in weight, body mass index, fasting blood glucose, or postprandial blood glucose levels in either group. RESULTS: The findings of this study indicate that chromium supplementation did not produce significant changes in blood glucose levels. Nevertheless, there were modest positive effects observed regarding insulin resistance and lipid profiles associated with chromium supplementation. CONCLUSION: Supplementation with chromium may assist patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in ameliorating the lipid profile disturbances and insulin resistance linked to the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apatite is an accessory phase in all the units of the internally zoned Berry-Havey complex pegmatite. This body presents a highly fractionated core zone, enriched in Li, F, B, Be, and P, which hosts three different types of pockets, some of them often containing tens to hundreds of gemmy euhedral Li-rich tourmaline crystals, together with other mineral phases such as lepidolite. Processes involved in the complex internal evolution of pegmatitic melts that give rise to zoned bodies containing pockets are not completely understood. To shed light on these processes, apatite from all the different units of the Berry-Havey pegmatite (wall zone, intermediate zone, core margin, and core zone pods) and from the three pocket types (Li-poor, Li-rich, and apatite seams) has been characterized petrographically and later analyzed for major (electronic microprobe) and trace elements (LA-ICP-MS). Results indicate that apatite chemistry changed significantly during the crystallization of the Berry-Havey pegmatite, reflecting the conditions at each stage and mainly depending on the fractionation degree, fO2, and paragenetic association. Fluorapatite is found in all the units except the core margin, the Li-poor pockets, and the seams, where Mn-bearing fluorapatite is present. A gradual increase of the Mn content in apatite from the pegmatite border (wall zone) inward, up to the formation of subrounded masses of Mn-Fe phosphate in the core zone pods, parallels the increasing fractionation of the melt. Phosphate crystallization would deplete the residual melt in Mn, probably causing the significant Mn-decrease observed in apatite from the core zone pods and Li-rich pockets. The late depletion of Mn could also be related to an increase of fO2 in the melt during the later stages of its evolution. Main trace element variations in apatite at both pegmatite and crystal scales correspond to REE, Y, and Sr. Yttrium and REE behave in a very similar way, decreasing inward, i.e., with fractionation of the pegmatitic melt (ΣREE from 1796 ppm in the apatite from the wall zone to 0 ppm in the core zone; and Y from 1503 ppm in the apatite from the wall zone to 0 ppm in the core zone); which could be due to early crystallization of REE-bearing phosphates such as monazite and xenotime. Strontium shows a more complex trend, with an initial depletion in apatite from the wall zone (52 ppm) to the intermediate zone (3 ppm) and a pronounced increase from the core margin (23–87 ppm) up to the core zone and pockets (up to 2.87 wt%). This increase of Sr at the latest fractionation stages of the pegmatite is interpreted to be associated with a late, incompatible character of this element in highly fractionated melts, related to the composition of feldspars from the core margin (mainly pure albite). The lack of Ca in feldspars would decrease affinity for Sr incorporation into their structure and, consequently, Sr would go preferentially to apatite in the core zone pods and, more markedly, in the pockets. Apatite also records changes in the redox conditions during crystallization, with the highest fO2 at the end of the crystallization, mainly reflected in the Eu and Ce anomalies. The chemistry of apatite also reflects the evolution of the pegmatitic melt during crystallization regarding the fluids saturation and pockets generation. Accordingly, at least two exsolution events took place during the Berry-Havey crystallization history: (1) at the beginning of the core zone crystallization, giving rise to the Li-poor pockets, and (2) after the crystallization of the Li-rich pods of the core zone, resulting in the Li-rich pockets. The apatite-rich seams may have crystallized between these two exsolution events or later, at a subsolidus stage, after a Na-autometasomatism episode. This study shows how a detailed petrographic and chemical characterization of apatite associated with different units of a highly fractionated, internally zoned pegmatite may help understand the crystallization history of pegmatitic melts. It is also evidenced that during the internal evolution of pegmatites, apatite chemistry records variations in the fO2, elemental fractionation, interaction with competing mineral phases, fluids activity and exsolution events. In addition, it is shown how apatite chemistry may be useful as an exploration tool for pegmatites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, laser ablation–multicollector–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–MC–ICP–MS) of apatites and LA–ICP–MS of zircons are used to collect U–Pb geochronological data, Rb–Sr isotope chronology is used to analyze alkaline feldspar and plagioclase, and archival apatite geochemistry data for the exposed Naitoushan basalt and Heishigou dike in the Changbaishan Tianchi volcano (CTV) are accessed to examine the petrogenesis and determine the origin of basaltic magmatism in the CTV. The Naitoushan basalt and Heishigou dike formed at 22.2–18.7 and 0.230–0.218 Ma, respectively. In situ oxides, volatiles, trace element geochemistry and Sr–Nd isotopes of apatite are reported for two samples. Most apatites are in the early crystallization phase and form inclusions in plagioclase that are euhedral or subhedral. They have higher MgO and K2O/Na2O concentrations; lower F and Cl concentrations; Ba, Sr, Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, K, and Ti depletion; and Th, U, Ce, Pb, P, and Nd enrichment. All apatite samples are enriched in light rare earth elements (REEs) relative to heavy REEs and have relatively homogeneous Th/U, Zr/Hf, La/Sm, and Nd/Tb ratios and Sr–Nd isotopic compositions; thus, their host magmas potentially have the same magmatic origin as oceanic island basalt. The apatite La, Yb, and U contents, Eu/Eu* and La/Yb values, and high REE contents show a weak crystallization sequence in the mafic magma. This study demonstrates that the pre-shield and post-shield mafic magmas in the CTV were likely derived from an enriched mantle source with an I-type signature related to the rollback of the Pacific plate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microelemental composition and isotope ratios Pb/U, Pb/Th, and Pb/Pb in apatite were determined by inductively coupled plasma and laser ablation mass spectrometry with on a NexION 300S spectrometer with an NWR 213 laser ablation (LA) attachment; the procedure for processing the experimental data was described. The optimal operation parameters of the mass spectrometer and the LA attachment were determined, also in determining the trace element composition and U/Pb dating from one crater of a size of 50 μm or more. In determining the microelemental composition of apatite, standard synthetic glasses NIST SRM-612, -610 were used; in measuring isotope ratios, reference samples (RS) were used—Durango, Mun Mad, and Mud Tank apatites, analyzed in laboratories in different countries. Using scanning electron microscopy data, the shape of laser ablation craters in RS apatite grains was analyzed; a significant heterogeneity of grains in the matrix and impurity elements was shown. The performance characteristics of the procedures for the measurement period 2021−2023 are presented. The repeatability of measuring the isotope ratios 206Pb/238U and 208Pb/232Th is 0.54 and 0.72, 7.5 and 14.3, 1.5 and 4.4% for Mun Mad, Durango, Mud Tank, respectively. Variations in the REE content of the reference samples (RSD) are 11−24, 5−13, 0.3−7% for Mun Mad, Durango, Mud Tank, respectively. The dating of the RS of apatite, within the limits of uncertainty, corresponds to those obtained in world laboratories. The methods were tested in the analysis of a number of apatite samples from Ural sites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize the calcium phosphates modified by different amount of Na+, Cu2+, Zn2+ and CO32−, and to investigate their activity in model solution (at pH = 7.45 and 37 °C) and antibacterial properties against Streptococcus pyogenes. According to XRD and FTIR spectroscopy data the apatite-related phases with partial substitution РО43− → СО32− (B-type) have been prepared. Presence of sodium and carbonate ions led to increase of solubility in model solution during the first 48 h, while modification with both Cu2+ and Zn2+ cations (up to 0.6 wt%) significantly improved antimicrobial properties against Streptococcus pyogenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the seven-step extraction procedure (SSEP) proposed by our laboratory team was modified to reduce the number of fractions from seven to five (FSEP) without affecting its effectiveness. By this way, the modified SSEP was investigated by comparing the quantity of trace (Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Ni, Zn) and major (Ca, Fe, Mn) elements leached from two sediments (TH2 and T16). Compared to the SSEP, the shortened sequential test allows to reach the same results in terms of reproductibility. Results confirm that the water-soluble step is negligeable and can be omitted for the sediments. The percentage of the total leached elements Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn were 23%, 13%, 58%, 55%, 92%, 63%, 81%, 65% and 80%, respectively, for both procedures SSEP and FSEP. However, merging the reducible fractions revealed for some elements a little reduction of the leached quantities in comparison to the original SSEP. Over reducible fraction, the leached Fe element in T16, achieves 4% for SSEP and 3% for FSEP. This was explained by the partial dissolution of the amorphous and crystalline irons. Based on the reduced number of fractions, the used extraction filters (28 Vs 20) and the extraction time (18 h Vs 13.5 h), FSEP appeared to be easier for manipulation without loss of its effectiveness. However, the choice of the FSEP must be deduced from the physicochemical properties of the sample and the aim of the envisaged study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have different biological mechanisms to alleviate stressful conditions in heavy metals (HMs) polluted soil. These mechanisms were widely assessed under controlled/greenhouse conditions, but scarcely studied at pilot or territory scale. The aim of this study was to evaluate the response of two Rhizophagus intraradices strains isolated from soils with different histories of pollution, in association with Senecio bonariensis plants, growing in an engineering vegetal depuration module filled with artificially HMs polluted substrate. Plants inoculated with GC3 strain uptook low amounts of HMs and translocated them to shoot biomass. Heavy metals (Mg, Zn, Mn, Cr, Cu and Ni) and macronutrients (Ca, K, S and P) were accumulated in roots of S. bonariensis when inoculated with GB8 strain, limiting their translocation to the shoot. Uninoculated plants showed high translocation of all studied elements to shoot tissues. Concluding, tested R. intraradices strains have exhibited different phytoprotection mechanisms under extremely toxic concentrations of HMs. Moreover, the development of the assay at such a high Technological Readiness Level represents a novel contribution in this field of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the results showed that the soil radioactivity concentrations of 232Th and 40K were higher than the reference values given by UNSCEAR, but still within radiologically safe limits. Heavy metal concentrations were within allowable limit according to Vietnamese standards. Radioactivity and metal concentrations in the topsoil did not increase compared with the 30 cm depth after a period of operation. After one year of operation, the gamma dose rates of the area around the plant showed no difference according to the one-way ANOVA test (p = 0.944). The results indicated that after a period of operation, the coal-fired thermal power plant did not shown any significant impact of radioactivity and metals from the fly ash on the surrounding environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is widely known that sex differences have a significant impact on patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). This study aims to evaluate the sex-related connection between serum trace elements and changes in neurometabolism in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of MDD patients. 109 untreated MDD patients and 59 healthy controls underwent proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) under resting conditions. We measured metabolic ratios in the ACC from both sides. Additionally, venous blood samples were taken from all participants to detect calcium (Ca), phosphorus, magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), ceruloplasmin (CER), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) levels. We performed association and interaction analyses to explore the connections between the disease and gender. In individuals with MDD, the Cu/Zn ratio increased, while the levels of Mg, CER, Zn and Fe decreased. Male MDD patients had lower Cu levels, while female patients had an increased Cu/Zn ratio. We observed significant gender differences in Cu, CER and the Cu/Zn ratio in MDD. Male patients showed a reduced N -acetyl aspartate (NAA)/phosphocreatine + creatine (PCr + Cr) ratio in the left ACC. The NAA/PCr + Cr ratio decreased in the right ACC in patients with MDD. In the left ACC of male MDD patients, the Cu/Zn ratio was inversely related to the NAA/PCr + Cr ratio, and Fe levels were negatively associated with the GPC + PC/PCr + Cr ratio. Our findings highlight gender-specific changes in Cu homeostasis among male MDD patients. The Cu/Zn ratio and Fe levels in male MDD patients were significantly linked to neurometabolic alterations in the ACC. • Serum levels of Cu and CER decreased in men with MDD, while the Cu/Zn ratio increased in women with MDD. • In males with MDD, a gender-specific decrease in the NAA/PCr + Cr ratio was noted in the left ACC. • The Cu/Zn ratio and Fe levels in male MDD patients are associated with changes in neurometabolism in the ACC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Te–Bi bearing minerals are commonly present in many hydrothermal gold deposits and can provide important physicochemical constraints on their mineralization. The gold mineralization in the Xiejiagou gold deposit is hosted in the Mesozoic Linglong granite and consists of auriferous quartz veins and subordinate disseminated ores in the vein-proximal alteration zone. Three types of pyrite were identified that formed in stage I, II, and III. Gold occurs mostly as native gold and electrum (Ag > 20 wt.%) inclusions in or filling microfractures in pyrite. The abundant auriferous pyrite-quartz veins contain an assemblage of tsumoite and hessite. The tsumoite occurs as irregular inclusions in the Py1 and is intergrown with the chalcopyrite. The hessite occurs as irregular inclusions or along the margins of the Py2, and it coexists with the gold and galena. The tellurium fugacity continually decreased from stage I (log fTe2 = −8.8 to −10.7) to stage III (log fTe2 = −13.8 to −17.0). The sulfur fugacity increased from stage I (log fS2 = −8.6 to −11.4) to stage II (log fS2 = −7.2 to −11.4), and then, it decreased from stage II to stage III (log fS2 = −9.8 to −13.0). These data indicate the conditions of the gold precipitation during the ore formation process. A detailed study of gold distribution in texturally different pyrite and the paragenetic association of tellurides provide valuable information on the distribution pattern of gold and in understanding the processes of gold deposition and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reviews recent advancements in X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry, focusing on improvements in 3D chemical imaging and the development of specialized instruments. Topics include the progress in XRF spectrometry computed tomography, advancements in confocal XRF techniques, and the expanding applications of these methods in material science and cultural heritage.

In situ microanalysis of the sulfur (S) isotope composition and elemental distribution in sphalerite is important in geochemistry. A matrix-matched reference material is still lacking in situ microanalysis. In this study, a hydrothermal synthesis method combined with hot-press sintering processes was used to synthesize a sphalerite material Sph-LD. A large number of in situ microanalyses, including trace element concentrations and S isotope compositions, were performed on Sph-LD by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and laser ablation multi-collector inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-MC-ICP-MS) to assess the homogeneity. The LA-MC-ICP-MS results are highly consistent and yield a mean δ34S value of +17.11 ± 0.20‰ (2 SD, n = 560), which is analogous with that measured by IRMS. Microanalysis of element concentrations generally agrees with the data of ICP-MS within 10% for trace elements (relative standard deviation < 10%). These results indicate that Sph-LD is suitable to be a matrix-matched reference material available for quantitative analysis of element concentrations and S isotope measurement of sphalerite using LA-ICP-MS and LA-MC-ICP-MS. Meanwhile, the synthetic method introduces a novel concept for the development of standard materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current work proposes developing the wavefront-enhanced laser-induced-breakdown spectroscopy (WELIBS) approach using a crystalline quartz slide instead of the crystalline silicon wafer. Such substitution widens the application of WELIBS in the UV, visible, and IR laser wavelength ranges, not only the IR, as in the case of the silicon wafer. A Shack--Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWFS) has been used to prove the capability of the crystalline quartz slide to convert the wavefront shape from quasi-Gaussian to a flat-top one in different ranges of wavelengths. The analytical performance of the novel WELIBS arrangement with the crystalline quartz slide has been studied using a pure zinc target, which showed a pronounced enhancement in the intensity of the spectral lines (two to sixfold) compared to the conventional LIBS technique for the three laser wavelengths the IR (1064 nm), the green (532 nm), and the UV (355 nm). Furthermore, seven certified bronze alloy samples have been used to study the achieved analytical improvement of the novel WELIBS analytical performance by testing its capability of estimating the limit of detection (LOD) of different minor elements. From the WELIBS and LIBS spectra of the bronze alloys, calibration lines of Zn, Sn, and Pb have been plotted to estimate the limit of detection for each element. The LOD for WELIBS was half that of LIBS. WELIBS with the quartz slide for beam shaping is superior to WELIBS with the Si wafer since it can be used with different laser wavelengths and not only the IR and provides similar, or better, analytical enhancement than the conventional LIBS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tangshan is known as a typical heavy industrial city with serious atmospheric pollution. It suffers the most serious atmospheric pollution during the winter heating period. This study aims to explore the level and spatial distribution of atmospheric element deposition in the study area and validate the suitability of Ramalina sinensis (RSI) as an active biomonitor in North China cities. RSI was transplanted to Tangshan in winter (Dec. 2016- Mar. 2017) and exposed for 17 weeks. The concentration of 51 elements was tested using an ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer). The results showed that the exposure concentration of all elements but Ag was significantly higher than the background value. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that K, P, and Rb were separated into the group G5, and these nutrients have a lower level of bioaccumulation than other groups. The remaining 47 elements were classified into groups G1 (Al, Be, Co, Cr, Cs, Ge, Li, Nb, Ni, Si, Th, Ti, U, V, and 16 rare earth elements La, Ce, Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, Yb, Lu, Y, and Sc) of crustal origin, G2 (Ca, Cd, Cu, Mg, Mn, Mo, S, Sb, Sr, and Zn) and G3 (Bi, Pb, and Sn) of atmospheric origin, and G4 (As, Fe, Se, and Tl) of crustal-atmospheric origin. The overall bioaccumulation in Tangshan is moderate (PLIzone = 2.010 for the combined groups G1-4), with the highest bioaccumulation level (high to severe) for the atmospheric group G2. The most concerned elements are Ca and S, which are of high bioaccumulation at the regional scale. All element groups show a similar spatial pattern characterized by decreasing atmospheric deposition from east to west and from rural to urban areas. These results indicate that RSI is a good active biomonitor for most elements, barring some nutrients. The importance of G2 elements should be emphasized as an indicator of anthropogenic emissions in lichen-active biomonitoring techniques in North China cities. The study area experienced a certain degree of atmospheric pollution, contributed mainly by the frequent industrial and agricultural activities and coal combustion for heating in the east of the city and the rural areas around. This study is the first to monitor atmospheric deposition in industrial cities in North China using the active lichen biomonitoring method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, three major tea production areas (Guiding County, Duyun City, and Meitan County) in Guizhou Province were used as research objects to investigate the characteristics and influencing factors of the differences in the contents of trace elements and tea quality indexes in tea. The results showed that Meitan County had the highest content of trace elements in tea leaves of different origins, and there was no significant difference in the content of tea polyphenols, caffeine, free amino acids, and water leachate in tea leaves of different origins. The content of active ingredients (tea polyphenols, caffeine, free amino acids, and water leachate) was higher in young tea leaves. The results of random forest analysis showed that the importance of some trace elements in tea leaves on the content of tea polyphenols, caffeine, and free amino acids was significant at the levels of 0.05 and 0.01. This result suggests that the content of trace elements in tea leaves has an extremely important influence on the content of tea quality index components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the most important staple food crops, and its sustained production and nutritional security have attracted much attention. Cadmium, a heavy metal toxic to plants and humans, can enter wheat in various ways. Foliar fertilization can reduce the cadmium content in plants, but how different fertilizers reduce the cadmium toxicity of plants is still unclear. In this study, the effects of foliar application of fertilizers on spring wheat yield, cadmium accumulation, and trace element contents were studied by applying three kinds of fertilizers (multi-element compound fertilizer, manganese-zinc micro fertilizer, and foliar silicon fertilizer) to spring wheat planted in mildly and moderately cadmium polluted areas. The results showed that the yield of wheat when fertilized with multi-element compound fertilizer, manganese-zinc micro fertilizer, and silicon fertilizer increased by 17.1%, 15.7%, and 16.9%, respectively, compared with the control. In addition, all three foliar fertilizers reduced the cadmium content in wheat grains to below the standard value of food pollutants (≤0.1mg/kg), and significantly reduced the transport of cadmium from glume to grain, among which manganesezinc micro fertilizer had the best effect, with a cadmium reduction rate of 41.7%. At the same time, manganese-zinc micro fertilizer significantly increased the absorption of trace elements in wheat organs. These results indicated that the foliar application of manganese-zinc micro fertilizer could be an effective way to increase wheat yield, inhibit cadmium accumulation, and increase nutrient absorption in mildly to moderately cadmium-polluted areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying the elemental composition of aerosol particles on a single particle level is of importance when determining the internal and external mixing state of the aerosol population. We present a field-deployable platform for the elemental analysis of ambient single particles using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). The platform utilizes a wideband spectrometer for simultaneous multi-element detection and size-amplification-aided aerosol charging (SAAC) for efficient particle focusing via a linear electrodynamic quadrupole (LEQ). Carefully designed emission collection system allows minimization of the plasma background emission, which allows us to use short gate delays for increased yield of analyte emission. Performance evaluation with a set of well-defined salt aerosols show excellent capability in determining the relative mass percentage and absolute mass of elements spanning multiple orders of magnitude on a single particle level. Limits of detection for Mg, Na and K were determined to be approximately 2 fg, 40 fg, and 70 fg, respectively. An outdoor aerosol sample was analyzed in the size range of 1–3 µm in diameter, and the particles were classified into distinct categories based on their elemental composition. The maximum analysis speed is about 20 particles per minute and the minimum detectable particle size is, depending on the constituent elements, about 300–800 nm. Emission signals of Al, B, C, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Na, Si, and Ti were detected during the measurements of generated or outdoor aerosols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early Paleozoic A-type granites in South China are rare, and their petrogenesis is still highly debated. This study focuses on the controversial Epo pluton in the Wuyi-Yunkai Orogen and conducts petrological and petrogeochemical research to discuss its origin. The Epo granites were emplaced at approximately 414 Ma and exhibit petrological and geochemical features of A-type granites. They contain only one ferromagnesian mineral, ferrum biotite. The granites mostly have high alkalis contents (Na2O + K2O = 6.48–8.85 wt.%), high field strength element (HFSE) contents (Zr + Nb + Ce + Y = 353–461 ppm), and high Ga/Al (104×Ga/Al = 2.50–3.72) and FeOT/(FeOT + MgO) (0.74–0.85) ratios. Besides, they formed under high-temperature (>850°C) and low-pressure (≤5 kbar) conditions. Their high A/CNK (average 1.20) and Eu/Eu* (average 0.46) values as well as Sr (average 128 ppm) and Ba (average 628 ppm) contents but relatively low Zr contents (approximately 200 ppm) further suggest a strongly peraluminous A-type affinity, a distinctive subtype of A-type granites. The Epo granites display enriched Sr-Nd-Hf isotope compositions with a whole-rock87Sr/86Sri average ratio of 0.712, whole-rock εNd(t) values ranging from − 8.9 to − 7.6, and zircon εHf(t) values clustering at − 8. Their two-stage Nd and Hf isotope model ages are 1.7 Ga to 2.0 Ga, suggesting ancient crustal sources. Furthermore, Nb/U (average 7.46), Ce/Pb (average 4.06) and other trace element ratios indicate negligible contributions from juvenile mantle materials. Our data on the Epo pluton, coupled with other contemporary A-type granites in South China, suggest that the high-temperature melting of metasedimentary basements generated strongly peraluminous A-type granites, while the involvement of metaigneous rocks or mantle-derived magmas resulted in metaluminous to weakly peraluminous A-type granites. Source diversity leads to different aluminium saturations. The heat required to produce high-temperature A-type magmas was supplied by upwelling mantle-derived magma in a postcollisional extensional setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element associated with both beneficial and detrimental health effects; deficiency and uncontrolled self-supplementation are both issues of concern. Secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial and observational studies indicate that Se is a potential risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). The association between Se and diabetes may be sex specific, with potentially increased risk in men and an inverse association in women, particularly for gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy. Recent observational evidence suggests that high Se status favorably affects all-cause mortality risk in patients with manifest diabetes and reduces macrovascular T2D. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element, which is inserted as selenocysteine (Sec) into selenoproteins during biosynthesis, orchestrating their expression and activity. Se is associated with both beneficial and detrimental health effects; deficient supply or uncontrolled supplementation raises concerns. In particular, Se was associated with an increased incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial (RCT). In this review, we discuss the intricate relationship between Se and diabetes and the limitations of the available clinical and experimental studies. Recent evidence points to sexual dimorphism and an association of Se deficiency with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). We highlight the emerging evidence linking high Se status with improved prognosis in patients with T2D and lower risk of macrovascular complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]