Aluminum Levels Research Articles

Biomonitoring of the Paraopeba river: Cytotoxic, genotoxic and metal concentration analysis three years after the Brumadinho dam rupture - Minas Gerais, Brazil.

The rupture of Vale S.A. mining tailings dam in Brumadinho, Brazil, in January 2019 had significant environmental impacts on the Paraopeba River basin. Additionally, severe floods in early 2022 contributed to the transport of particles in the river. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of Paraopeba River water. Thus, the Allium cepa test system was applied, along with physicochemical analyses, flow cytometry, and metal concentration, comparing the results between the rainy and dry seasons three years after the dam rupture. The tests were conducted on water samples collected during three periods: January 2022, July 2022, and January 2023, at five points along the river and its tributaries. Allium cepa seeds were exposed to the collected water samples, as well as negative (water) and positive (trifluralin) controls. Cytotoxicity was evaluated using the mitotic index and flow cytometry, and genotoxicity by the chromosomal alterations index. The analysis of metals and physicochemical parameters revealed that most values complied with current regulations. However, there were exceptions, with ammonia levels exceeding the permitted limits at all points in the three collections. High levels of aluminum, iron and nitrite were found at most points, before and after the dam collapse, mainly during the rainy season. This indicates the impact of rainfall on water quality, which increases the transport of contaminating particles, probably resulting from human activities and the high concentration of nitrogen compounds released into the Paraopeba River. The results of the bioassay suggest a relatively low cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of the samples evaluated. However, this study highlights the continuous contamination of the river by unidentified anthropogenic factors, requiring continuous monitoring and analysis to track the evolution of water quality and its environmental effects.

Soil and climatic conditions determine the rhizobia in association with Phaseolus vulgaris in southern Brazil.

The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) plays a significant economic and social role in Brazil. However, the national average yield remains relatively low, largely because most bean cultivation is undertaken by small-scale farmers. In this context,biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is an effective strategy for improving crop yield. Therefore, it is important to identify novel rhizobial strains well suited to local climatic conditions. This study used Phaseolus vulgarisas a trap plant in soils from three distinct conservation areas (Ponta Grossa, Ortigueira, and Londrina) within Paraná State, Brazil. The soil chemical analysis revealed that the pH values in the Ponta Grossa and Ortigueira regions were low, whereas the Ortigueira region exhibited elevated aluminum levels. A total of 94 strains were obtained from the nodules of plants and subjected to analysis for their morphological and genetic properties. No nodules were observed in the Ortigueira region. In the Ponta Grossa region, most of the strains were identified as belonging to the genus Paraburkholderia, whereas all strains from Londrina were identified as Rhizobium. The 16S rRNA gene phylogenetic analysis revealed a high degree of genetic similarity between the Paraburkholderia and Rhizobium strains. These findings indicate that soil chemical properties (pH and aluminum level) and climate conditions may have a significant impact on the symbiotic association between rhizobia and common bean.

Changes in salivary trace element levels correlate with periodontal health state of non-smokers, smoker and reverse smokers

Aim: The present research study was undertaken to find the changes in the levels of trace elements in saliva of healthy, non-smoker periodontitis, smoker periodontitis and reverse smoker periodontitis and to check if they can be used as a biomarker for easy detection of periodontitis. Methodology: Whole unstimulated saliva samples of the individuals were collected and processed to remove cell debris and mucous. Aluminium, copper, zinc, strontium, and chromium were analysed in the samples using an Agilent Microwave - Plasma atomic emission spectrometer. Results: Significantly higher levels of aluminium and copper were observed in the reverse smoker periodontitis group when compared to healthy group. The levels of strontium and zinc significantly decreased in reverse smoker periodontitis group. An antagonistic correlation between copper and zinc was observed in periodontitis groups. Interpretation: The present work shows that the estimation of different trace elements can help in easy identification of periodontitis and assessment of the severity of disease. Key words: Periodontitis, Saliva, Smoker periodontitis, Trace elements

Alterations of gray matter volume and functional connectivity in patients with cognitive impairment induced by occupational aluminum exposure: a case-control study.

Cognitive impairment (CI) is a condition in which an individual experiences noticeable impairment in thinking abilities. Long-term exposure to aluminum (Al) can cause CI. This study aimed to determine the relationship between CI and MRI-related changes in postroom workers exposed to Al. Thirty patients with CI and 25 healthy controls were recruited. Plasma aluminum levels were measured using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and an auditory-verbal learning test (AVLT). All participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging scans. 3D T1-weighted anatomical images and resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data were acquired, and voxel-based morphometry and ROI-based FC were used for analysis. A mediation analysis was also conducted. Plasma aluminum levels were significantly higher in the CI group than in the normal control group. The gray matter (GM) volume in the left caudate and bilateral hippocampus was lower in the CI group and was positively correlated with cognitive scale scores. There was no significant difference in functional connectivity (FC) between the left caudate and the whole brain between the two groups. Significant alterations in hippocampal FC were observed in certain brain areas, mainly in the left cerebellar vermis, left middle frontal gyrus (BA9), and right superior frontal gyrus relative to the supplementary motor area (BA6). The FC coefficients were also associated with cognitive scale scores. Furthermore, plasma Al concentration was negatively correlated with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment score, bilateral hippocampal GM volume, and FC coefficient between the left hippocampus and left cerebellar vermis. Mediation analysis showed GM alteration of left caudate and bilateral hippocampus and FC alteration of left hippocampus to left cerebellar vermis could explained 19.80-32.07% of the effect of MoCA scores change related to Al exposure, besides the GM alteration of right hippocampus acted as indirect mediator (68.75%) of the association between Al and AVLT delayed recall scores. Our data indicates that alterations in the structure and function of special brain domain, especially the hippocampus, are associated with Al-induced CI. These brain regions can partly explain the effect of Al on cognitive impairment.

Assessment of aluminium level in commercial pasteurized and UHT milk in Bangladesh and their potential health risks

Aluminium (Al) contamination in the dairy industry is an emerging concern due to potential health risks. With the increasing consumption of pasteurized and UHT milk in Bangladesh, monitoring Al levels has become crucial. This study aimed to measure Al concentrations in these processed products using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and assess the associated health risks. Milk samples from 10 brands, including three different production lots, were collected from supermarkets. The instrumental precision for Al was 0.0212 mg/kg as a limit of detection (LOD) and 0.0643 mg/kg as a limit of quantification (LOQ), with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 3.2%. The multi-element standard containing Al exhibited linearity in the concentration ranged from 0-0.5 mg/kg with a correlation coefficient value of 0.9994. Among the 30 samples analyzed, 13, including both pasteurized and UHT milks, were contaminated with Al. The mean Al concentrations in the contaminated samples were 0.46±0.5, 0.71±0.6, and 0.47±0.4 mg/kg in lots 1, 2, and 3, respectively, indicating variation across production lots. The estimated daily Al intake ranged from 2.00E-03 to 3.00E-03 mg/kg body weight, contributing 1.4 to 2.1% of the provisional tolerable weekly intake. The target hazard quotient (THQ) for the contaminated samples ranged from 0.045 to 0.070 (THQ < 1), suggesting that the Al levels pose no significant health risk. Thus, the Al content in pasteurized and UHT milk may be considered safe for consumption, albeit with the limitation of a small sample size in this study.

Comparative analysis of heavy metals toxicity in drinking water of selected industrial zones in Gujranwala, Pakistan

Heavy metal contamination of drinking water, primarily driven by industrial activities, represents a critical challenge, with implications for human health and environmental safety. Gujranwala is an industrial and thickly populated city. The current study aimed to assess and compare heavy metal contamination levels in drinking water from five industrial areas and evaluate their potential impacts on human health. Total 100 water samples were collected and analysed for physicochemical parameters and heavy metals. Zonal variations in heavy metal concentrations revealed that Zone 2 had the highest mean levels of cadmium (0.331 mg/L), lead (0.573 mg/L), chromium (0.164 mg/L), arsenic (0.042 mg/L), and aluminium (0.484 mg/L), while Zone 4 showed elevated mean levels of iron (1.88 mg/L) and mercury (0.259 mg/L). Spearman correlation analysis among heavy metals revealed positive relationships among several heavy metals with As notably showing a strong correlation with Hg (0.701**). Kruskal–Wallis test revealed significant spatial variation (p < 0.05) in parameters like pH, EC, TDS, and heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Fe, Cu, Mn, Al), indicating spatial heterogeneity across zones. Spatial distribution maps also depicted heavy metal elevated concentrations of Cd, Pb, Fe, Cr, As, and Hg exceeding in Zone 2 (Engineering industries zone) and 4 (Iron and steel industries zone). The findings revealed a strong link between elevated heavy metal levels and health risks, including dermatological, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and neurological disorders. This study highlights the need for stricter wastewater management, regular monitoring of drinking water, and policies to address water toxicity in industrial premises and to protect public health.

Examining Heavy Metal Transfer from Soil to Bread

For Turkish society, bread has been an indispensable part of the kitchen and daily life throughout history. Due to its high consumption in Turkish society, it plays an important role in terms of both health and nutritional habits. Contamination from the soil where wheat is planted to the bread making process is of great importance for health. In this study, the amounts of heavy metals such as aluminum, copper, nickel, chromium, manganese, iron, lead and cadmium in the soil of an agricultural land, in flour obtained from wheat grown there and in bread made from this flour were investigated using ICP-MS. The average levels of Al, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Cd, Fe, Pb and As in soil samples were 120.46, 12.23, 44.9, 93.46, 10.83, 2.06, 196.87, 1.96 and 0.21 mg/kg, respectively. In flour samples, these levels were 17.20, 2.03, 28.93, 26.3, 3.37, 0.09, 30.93, 1.37 and 0.03 mg/kg, respectively. In bread samples, 11.27, 0.77, 8.27, 18.63, 0.4, 0.02, 12.76, 0.04 and 0.001 mg/kg, respectively. The results obtained show that high metal levels in the soil are also found in bread. This indicates that heavy metal levels in bread may pose health risks in long-term consumption. Especially levels of aluminum, nickel, chromium and cadmium metals can cause serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to reduce heavy metal contamination in agriculture and production processes and to conduct regular inspections. Compliance with maximum limits set by health authorities and regulatory agencies is also critical for public health.

Some aspects of the development of musculoskeletal pathology in children in an industrial center with a city-forming enterprise for the production of non-ferrous metal alloys

Introduction. At present, incidence of musculoskeletal diseases is growing in children, especially in areas with poor quality of the environment The purpose of the study was to identify markers of the development of musculoskeletal pathology in children to minimize the risk of health under conditions of exposure to emissions from a non-ferrous metal alloy production plant. Materials and methods. We performed clinical examination in four hundred ninety five 5 and 7 years children (54.3% boys and 45.7% girls). They lived in a large industrial center where safe standards for chemical in ambient air were violated per aluminum (up to 3.06 average daily MPL) and gaseous fluorides (up to 8.25 average daily MPL). Also, we examined 95 children (57.9% boys and 42.1% girls) who lived in an area where the foregoing chemicals were detected in ambient air in levels not exceeding 0.3–0.54 average daily MPL. The children were examined by pediatrician. Levels of aluminum and fluoride-ion were determined in urine. We examined phosphor-calcium metabolism indices and markers of bone tissue synthesis and resorption. The study also involved performing ultrasound densitometry. Results. The children form the observation group had aluminum and fluoride-ion levels in their urine up to 3.2 times a higher than their peers from the reference group. Likelihood of musculoskeletal pathology, including deforming dorsopathy, was found to be up to 1.3 times higher for the exposed children. Bone metabolism failure manifested itself in the exposed children through elevated levels of ionized calcium in blood; elevated levels of N-osteocalcin in 25.4% of the exposed children and elevated activity of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase in 59.3%. Bone marrow resorption was by 9.2 times more likely to be activated in the exposed children from a large industrial center. Impaired bone tissue remodelling was accompanied with lower bone mineral density in 54.7% of the exposed children. Limitations. The study was conducted on 5–7 years children. Conclusion. Markers of bone tissue metabolism disorders can be used to implement sanitary-epidemiological and medical-preventive measures to reduce the risk of developing osteopathic conditions in childhood.

Proximate and elemental composition of tea effluents obtained from various tea processing factories in Kenya

Tea undergoes intricate processing in factories, generating substantial effluents that pose significant environmental challenges. This study explored the proximate and elemental composition of tea effluents obtained from various factories to determine their potential benefits, especially in agriculture and health. The proximate composition analysis revealed significant (P&lt;0.05) variations in ash, crude fiber, carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids across samples from different factories. Notably, ash content in fluff samples from Mudete and Ogembo, and fly-off from Kionyo factories, is statistically comparable (P&gt;0.05) but significantly higher than other samples (P&lt;0.05). The cyclone fluff from the Kinoro factory exhibited significantly lower ash content than all other samples (P&lt;0.05). The study further examined microelement minerals (calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus) in tea samples, showcasing significant variations. The fluff sample from the Ogembo factory showed significantly higher calcium levels than others (P&lt;0.05), while the cyclone sample from Mogogosiek displays significantly lower calcium concentrations than other samples (P&lt;0.05). Regarding micronutrient/trace mineral elements, the fluff sample from the Gitambo factory has significantly higher Boron concentrations than other tea samples (P&lt;0.05). Significant differences were observed in Cobalt concentrations, with cyclone fluff samples from Chelal and Momul factories showing significantly higher levels than others (P&lt;0.05). The concentration of heavy metals (Aluminium, Chromium, Lead) in tea effluents varies significantly among samples from different factories (P&lt;0.05). The cyclone fluff samples from Boito and Chelal factories and fluff samples Mogogosiek factory showed significantly higher Aluminium concentrations than others (P&lt;0.05). The cyclone fluff sample from the Kinoro factory exhibited significantly lower Aluminium levels than others (P&lt;0.05). Therefore, future research should delve into specific processes contributing to these variations, enabling tailored strategies for sustainable waste management in the tea industry. Moreover, adopting environmentally conscious approaches, informed by a nuanced understanding of metal concentrations in tea effluents, is imperative for ensuring the long-term viability of the tea industry and safeguarding environmental health. Key words: Tea waste, micronutrients, macronutrients; heavy metals, nutritive value

Effects of different processing methods on the functional, nutritional, and physicochemical profiles of cowpea leaf powder.

Indigenous fruits and vegetables can improve food security and biodiversity. However, their use is hindered by perishability, seasonal availability, cooking losses, lack of nutritional composition data, and connections to low socioeconomic status. This study aimed to process cowpea leaves into powder and determine the effect of five home-cooking methods on their protein, functional, physicochemical, and heavy metal profiles. Cowpea leaves were boiled, blanched, steamed, sous-vide cooked, and stir-fried, at 5, 10, and 15min before dehydration at 60°C. Cowpea leaves contain protein up to 20g/100g. The leaves are rich in calcium, potassium, and zinc, providing up to 70% of the adult recommended dietary allowance for calcium and potassium per 100g of powder. Cowpea leaf powder exhibited good water/oil absorption and rehydration capacities. Sous-vide and steamed cowpea leaves provided an overall superior nutritional profile (p≤0.05). Heavy metals in the cowpea leaf powders were below the WHO permissible limits except for aluminum and high arsenic levels. This study demonstrated that cowpea leaf powders could be potentially incorporated into foods to improve functional properties and nutrient intake.

Aluminum Concentration Is Associated with Tumor Mutational Burden and the Expression of Immune Response Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancers.

Environmental pollution poses a significant risk to public health, as demonstrated by the bioaccumulation of aluminum (Al) in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aimed to investigate the potential mutagenic effect of Al bioaccumulation in CRC samples, linking it to the alteration of key mediators of cancer progression, including immune response biomarkers. Aluminum levels in 20 CRC biopsy samples were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The results indicated that Al bioaccumulation occurred in 100% of the cases. A correlation between Al levels and tumor mutation burden was observed. Furthermore, RNA sequencing revealed a significant association between Al concentration and the expression of the immune checkpoint molecule CTLA-4. Although correlations with PD-1 and PD-L1 were not statistically significant, a trend was observed. Additionally, a correlation between Al levels and both the presence of myeloid cells and IFNγ expression was detected, linking Al exposure to inflammatory responses within the tumor microenvironment. These findings suggested that Al can play a role in CRC progression by promoting both genetic mutations and immune evasion. Given the ubiquitous presence of Al in industrial and consumer products, dietary sources, and environmental pollutants, these results underscored the need for stricter regulatory measures to control Al exposure.

Association Between Serum Concentrations of (Certain) Metals and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

The findings regarding trace element concentrations in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and healthy controls are inconsistent, and therefore, we determined to gather them in the form of a review to further indicate the need for more advanced knowledge development. In our study, we reviewed articles and studies that involved the topics of micronutrient and metal associations with the occurrence and development of type 2 diabetes. We mainly included works regarding human-based studies, but with limited research results, animal-based research was also taken into account. With some newer studies, we reached for initial assumptions of previous statements. The results indicated that higher serum levels of lead, cadmium, arsenic, bromine, barium, strontium, nickel, aluminum, calcium, copper, and ferritin are positively associated with diabetic prevalence. Both too-low and too-high levels of zinc, selenium, and magnesium may be connected to the development of diabetes. Chromium has the capability of insulin response modulation, with enhanced insulin-cell binding, and thus, lower serum levels of chromium can be found in diabetic patients. There are contradictory discoveries regarding manganese. Its supplementation can possibly cease the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. On the contrary, other studies reported that there is no such connection. Our work indicates that, as micronutrients play a significant role in the pathogenesis of metabolic disorders, more research regarding their bodily homeostasis and type 2 diabetes should be conducted.

Environmental Factors Influencing Anthrax Distribution in an East African Protected Area

ABSTRACTAnthrax outbreaks caused by the soil‐borne bacterium Bacillus anthracis have been known to occur often in Africa, impacting both wildlife and livestock and occasionally infecting humans. Modelling the current distribution and predicting suitable habitats for this bacteria species is therefore critical for supporting effective planning and control measures for anthrax outbreaks. Despite its impact, the knowledge on the ecology of this pathogen is still limited. This can be due to intricate interactions between anthropogenic and environmental factors and the variety of species it affects. Therefore, detailed, site‐specific analyses are essential for contributing to the understanding of the ecology of anthrax. This study used the maximum entropy modelling algorithm (MaxEnt) method to predict suitable habitat and environmental conditions that may support anthrax distribution and spore survival in Tarangire National Park, in Tanzania. Model inputs included 14 predictors from World Climatic, Landsat satellite, and World Soil Information datasets, as well as 636 presence‐only occurrence data from park records from 2013 to 2023. The predicted suitable area favouring anthrax spores encompassed most of the savannah and open grassland in the northern part of the park, as well as narrow patches in the park's central region. The mean test AUC score was 0.91, and the predicted probability was 0.98 for anthrax presence. On average, the predicted probability of suitable conditions substantially improved with increasing levels of extractable phosphorus, exchangeable potassium, mean annual temperature, and soil pH. Furthermore, the probability of suitable habitat was highest at lower levels of fire frequency, exchangeable sodium, and extractable aluminium. The extensive track record of anthrax outbreaks in the area may be explained by the presence of these favourable soil characteristics and climate, which point to the long‐term occurrence of anthrax spores in the park. However, the existence of suitable habitat in the northern part of the park presents opportunities for mobilising resources to mitigate the situation through activities such as targeted disease surveillance and the use of controlled fire.

Assessing Environmental Contamination through Pollen Analysis of Solitary Cavity-nesting Resin Bees Around Kolhapur City

This study examines how pollen-nectar mixtures collected by solitary cavity-nesting resin bees can serve as bioindicators of environmental pollution. Researchers utilized paper straw trap nests across various locations, including agricultural (Shirgaon to Kandalgaon road in Gokul Shirgaon, Kolhapur), industrial (MIDC Shiroli, Kolhapur), urban (Dabolkar Corner, Kolhapur City), and a control area (KIT's College of Engineering, Gokul Shirgaon, Kolhapur). The nests, installed in February 2024, contained empty straws and some partially packed with larvae from the control area. These nests were designed to mimic natural habitats, allowing mature bees to build nests and create pollen-nectar mixtures for their offspring. Analysis aimed to detect environmental contaminants in these mixtures. Only one sample from the industrial area (Trap Nest Location 5 at Quality Castings, MIDC Shiroli) was recovered, showing elevated levels of iron, manganese, chromium, and nickel, consistent with industrial emissions. In contrast, the control area produced viable samples with detectable levels of magnesium, zinc, iron, aluminum, and barium. The absence of samples from urban and agricultural areas suggests adverse conditions affecting bee populations. This underscores the sensitivity of resin bees to pollution and highlights their role as bioindicators. The study emphasizes the need for effective environmental management to enhance habitat quality and protect both bees and human health.

The interaction between plasma polymetals and lifestyle on cognitive dysfunction in occupational aluminum exposed workers: A cross-sectional study in China

ObjectiveTo investigate the interaction between plasma polymetallic exposure and lifestyle factors on cognitive function abnormalities in occupational aluminum workers. The aim is to develop a new occupational health management model that integrates lifestyle behaviors with occupational activities to comprehensively protect the health of these workers. Method476 Participants were recruited from an aluminum factory in Shanxi, China. Cognitive functioning was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment Scale (MoCA). Plasma polymetallic levels were measured using ICP-MS. Logistic regression analyzed the relationship between nine plasma metals, lifestyle factors, and cognitive abnormalities. A 3D model validated the interaction between metals and analyzed the combined effects of plasma metals and lifestyle on MoCA scores. The Chi-squared Automatic Interaction Detector (CHAID) decision tree was used to identify factors influencing cognitive dysfunction. ResultsHigh blood aluminum concentration (>47.85 μg/L), high blood lithium concentration(>3.15 μg/L), as well as sleep time(≤7 h and > 8 h), smoking, alcohol consumption, and length of mobile phone use(≥2 h) were risk factors for abnormal cognitive functioning. In addition aluminum and lithium have a multiplicative interaction on cognitive function(OR=1.86,95 %CI:1.14,3.050). There was an interaction between high plasma levels of aluminum and lithium and smoking on cognitive function in workers, and an interaction between high plasma levels of aluminum and lithium and sleep duration ≤7 or >8 h on cognitive function in workers. ConclusionThe levels of blood metal elements aluminum and lithium, as well as sleep time, smoking, drinking, and length of mobile phone use, are risk factors for cognitive dysfunction in occupational aluminum workers. There are the synergetic effect to increase the risk of cognitive dysfunction between blood aluminum concentration ≥50.59μg/L and blood lithium concentration ≥3.44μg/L, sleep duration ≤7h& >8 h, smoking, drinking, mobile phone use ≥2 h.

Potential protection of resveratrol-tempeh against nephrotoxic and hepatotoxic histological damage in mice induced by aluminum

Aluminum is a widely distributed metal that, while generally safe at low levels, can become toxic when accumulated in the body. Its exposure is daily through various sources, including food, water, and medications. High levels of aluminum have been shown to adversely affect the kidneys and liver, leading to significant organ damage. Resveratrol-tempeh is a safe protective agent against organ damage caused by aluminum. Here, we investigated the impact of resveratrol on liver and kidney toxicity and Al-induced levels of catalase and malondialdehyde. The mice group was the control group, Al-group, Al+REST5-group, and Al+REST10-group. Aluminum and resveratrol were administered intraperitoneally to mice for four weeks, but resveratrol was administered one hour after exposure to aluminum. Mice were killed by cervical dislocation; the liver and kidney were isolated for slide, and the level of an antioxidant enzyme of catalase and oxidant of malondialdehyde was measured. The results showed that administration of aluminum at a dose of 200 mg/kg body weight caused glomerular shrinkage and proximal tubule degeneration in the kidneys. In addition, it also caused liver tissue damage, with hepatocytes undergoing degeneration, sinusoids dilating, and decreased body weight in the mice. Administration of resveratrol-tempeh tended to decrease malondialdehyde levels and increase catalase activity, although the changes were not significant. It seems that resveratrol-tempeh can repair liver and kidney damage and restore them to normal conditions. Conclusion: Aluminum at 200 mg/kg is toxic to mice. Resveratrol-tempeh can be considered a potential candidate to protect kidney and liver damage caused by aluminum chloride toxicity.

Sustainable recycling of pure aluminum from waste chips under supergravity-enhanced separation: A cleaning process

Large quantities of chips containing high levels of aluminum are always inevitably produced during machining process of aluminum products, which is a valuable renewable resource. In this paper, an environmental-friendly method for direct and continuous recovery of same-level recycled Al from waste chips under supergravity-induced was proposed. The oxide film covering the surface of the molten Al-chips was easily disrupted under super-gravity, and subsequently almost all of Al melt detached from the oxide film and flowed rapidly through the microporous ceramic foam filter, with a yield ratio of more than 97 %. During this process, all fine broken oxide-film particles and large amounts of primary iron-rich particles in the melt were captured in the complex channels of the filter, resulting in clean 1xxx series recycled Al with free inclusions and impurity iron content of less than 0.28 wt%. In addition, a sustainable process and a continuous centrifugal unit for recycling aluminum chips were designed, the economic and environmental advantages of which demonstrate the feasibility of sustainable regeneration of aluminum chip resources on an industrial scale via supergravity technique.

Investigation of the Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Antioxidant System and Serum Aluminum, Zinc, and Iron Levels in Acute Aluminum Toxicity.

Aluminum (Al), one of the three most prevalent metals in the Earth's crust, adversely impacts all metabolic systems of living organisms due to its extensive utilization by humans. It is known that omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FA) protect the organism against diseases and have positive effects on the immune system. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of ω-3FA on 8-OH-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), glutathione (GSH) levels and adenosine deaminase (ADA), paraoxonase (PON), and catalase (CAT) activities in rats with acute aluminum toxicity. The study also aimed to investigate the antioxidant system, as well as Al, zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) levels. Forty Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 40) were used in the study and the rats were divided into four equal groups (n = 10). In group I, 0.5mL of 0.9% saline solution (NaCI) was injected intraperitoneally. Group II was injected with 34mg/kg aluminum chloride (AlCI3) intraperitoneally. Group III received 400mg/kg ω-3FA for 7days and group IV received both AlCI3 and 400mg/kg ω-3FA for 7days. At the end of the study, blood samples were obtained by cardiac puncture. The findings showed that Al exposure increased serum 8-OHdG and total oxidant status (TOS) levels, as well as ADA activity, which are markers associated with oxidative damage. Conversely, PON and CAT activities, GSH, and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels decreased compared to the control group. Furthermore, Zn and Fe levels decreased as Al levels increased. In conclusion, Al has the capacity to induce oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation, while ω-3 fatty acids may mitigate this damage through a regulatory mechanism. Moreover, ω-3-FA could be used as a therapeutic agent that reduces Al toxicity.

Sub-acute Inhalation Exposure to Aluminum Oxide Nanoparticles and its Effects on Wistar Rats as Opposed to the Micro-sized Chemical Analog.

Aluminum oxide nanoparticles (Al2O3 NPs) are widely used in various productions. Simultaneously, many research works report the toxic effects of this nanomaterial. Given that, there is a growing risk of negative effects produced by Al2O3 NPs on public health. This study aims to investigate the toxic effects of Al2O3 NPs as opposed to the micro-sized chemical analogue under sub-acute inhalation exposure. We identified the physical properties of Al2O3 NPs as opposed to the micro- sized chemical analogue, including size, specific surface area, and total pore volume. Inhalation exposure to Al2O3 NPs was simulated on Wistar rats in a chamber for whole-body. The animals were exposed for 4 hours each day for 28 days. NPs and MPs concentrations in the chamber were kept at ~ 1/4000 from LC50. Rats' behavior was examined prior to the exposure period and after it; after the last daily exposure, we examined biochemical and hematological blood indicators, NPs and MPs bioaccumulation, and pathomorphological changes in organ tissues. The tested Al2O3 sample is a nanomaterial according to its analyzed physical properties. Rats' behavior changed more apparently under exposure to NPs compared to MPs. Aluminum levels, which were 1.62-55.20 times higher than the control, were identified in the lungs, liver, brain, and blood under exposure to NPs. These levels were also 1.55-7.65 times higher than the control under exposure to MPs. Biochemical indicators of rats' blood also changed under exposure to NPs against the control. We identified more active ALT, AST, ALP, and LDH, elevated levels of GABA, MDA, and conjugated bilirubin, and a lower level of Glu. As opposed to exposure to MPs, ALT, AST, and ALP were more active; GABA and MDA levels were higher; Glu level was lower. Under exposure to NPs, the number of platelets grew, whereas no similar effect occurred under exposure to MPs. We established pathomorphological changes in tissues of the lungs, brain, heart, and liver under exposure to Al2O3 NPs; similar changes occurred only in the lungs under exposure to MPs. Exposure to NPs induced changes in tissue structures in a wider range of various organs, and these changes were more apparent than under exposure to MPs. Greater toxicity of Al2O3 NPs as opposed to MPs is evidenced by a wider range of organs where their bioaccumulation occurs, more apparent pathomorphological and pathological functional changes. Established peculiarities of toxic effects produced by the analyzed nanomaterial should be considered when developing hygienic recommendations aimed at preventing and mitigating adverse impacts of Al2O3 NPs on human health under inhalation exposure.

Silica Sand, Activated Carbon, and Manganese Zeolite for Clean Water Filtration

The General Background Water is essential for human life, but many rural areas still lack access to clean drinking water that meets health standards. In Sumbergedang Village, Pandaan, local water sources are often contaminated by dissolved metals and bacteria, posing risks to community health. Current filtration methods in the area are insufficient, and limited studies explore the combined use of silica sand, activated carbon, manganese zeolite, and UV sterilization for improving rural water quality. This study aims to evaluate the performance of these filtration materials and UV sterilization in producing safe drinking water for the village. The results show that the filtration system increased the pH of the water from 7.94 to 7.98, within acceptable drinking water standards. The novelty of this research lies in the integration of filtration materials with UV sterilization to address both chemical and microbial contaminants, offering a comprehensive solution for water purification. The findings suggest that, while the system effectively improves most water quality parameters, additional treatments may be required to reduce aluminum levels to meet national drinking water standards. These results have important implications for water management in rural areas facing similar challenges. Highlihts: The study combines mangan zeolite, silica sand, and activated carbon with UV sterilization for effective water purification. Filtration and UV treatment significantly reduced turbidity, odors, and bacterial contamination in spring water. Aluminum levels exceeded permissible limits, indicating the need for further modifications to the filtration system. Keywords: Water quality, filtration, UV sterilization, rural communities, aluminum levels