Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Research Articles

Nickel toxicology testing in alternative specimen from farm ruminants in a urban polluted environment

The impact of nickel (Ni) metal toxicity, on public health was assessed analyzing forage samples (Acacia nilotica, Zea mays, Pennisetum glaucum, Capparis decidua and Medicago sativa), soils and blood samples of cow, buffalo and sheep (blood plasma, fecal, and hair) collected from three different agro-ecological zones and analyzed through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results showed that nickel values differed in soil samples ranging from 4.49 to 9 to 25 mg/kg, in forages from 3.78 to 9.53 mg/kg and in animal samples from 0.65 to 2.42 mg/kg. Nickel concentration, in soil and forage samples, was below the permitted limits. Soil with the minimum nickel level was found under C. decidua while the maximum concentration was reached under the A. nilotica. Among the animals, nickel was maximum in buffaloes that grazed on the Z. mays fodder. Ni was more accumulated in feces than other body tissues. The sheep and buffaloes showed high vulnerability to Ni pollution due to the highest contamination levels at site II and III. Bioconcentration factor, pollution load index and enrichment factor were found to be higher in buffaloes than cows, respectively. The daily intake and health risk index ranged from 0.0056 to 0.0184 mg/kg/day and 0.186–0.614 mg/kg/day respectively. In short, the results of this study evidenced that Nickel-containing fertilizers should never not be used to grow forage species. Government should to lessen the toxic metal accessibility to animals. Although general values were lower than the admitted limit, nickel can be accumulated and the consume of food containing nickel can increase health risks. General monitoring of soil and vegetation pollution load, as well as the use of other non-conventional water like canal water for forage irrigation could be a sustainable solution to decrease the access of nickel in the food chain.

Heavy Metal Content in the Soil of Baiji Refinery and Surrounding Area, Controlling its Distribution Factors

This study was conducted to analyze the presence of heavy metals within the soil inside and around Baiji Oil Refinery and their factors that control the spatial distribution of metals in soils existed as (organic matter (OM), iron-manganese, pH, clay minerals). In this study, geochemical analysis of Baiji Oil Refinery soil and nearby areas was conducted by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Twenty two samples were analysed in which the results showed heavy metal as (Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu) concentrations that most of these metals were found to be higher than their global limits in the soil, except (Fe, Mn and Zn) found to be within those limits. Controlling factors were conducted for six samples, three of highest concentrations and three of lowest one. The results reveal that the mean concentration of OM in the highest concentrations was 1.64% while the lowest concentrations was 1.59%, the mean concentration of Fe-Mn was in the highest concentrations 23380-359 ppm and in the lowest samples was 11304-114 ppm, respectively. The mean concentration for the pH in the highest concentrations was 8.5 and for the samples within the lowest concentrations was 7.9. However, the mean clay for the samples within the highest concentration were 1.04%, whereas the samples within the lowest concentration were 1.48%. The results showed that the controlling factors did not affect the soil heavy metal distribution of Baiji Oil Refinery and their nearby areas. Therefore, such results indicate the role of industrial processes (oil industries) in increasing the concentration of heavy metals in the soils in addition to the elements inherited from the parent rocks.

Assessment of Heavy Metal (Zinc, Copper, Lead and Cadmium) Contamination in Common Edible Shellfish Species of the Hooghly River and Sunderbans, India

The content of four heavy metals (Zinc, Copper, Lead and Cadmium) in muscles of three shell fish species - prawns -Penaeus monodon and Penaeus indicus and crabs-Scylla serrata, the most prime shellfish food resources of human in the domestic and international market were studied at four stations in the estuarine belt near Bay-of-Bengal which receives wastes of various types from industries and various anthropogenic activities. The samples were digested by acid digestion. The metal contents were quantified using an AAS (Atomic absorption spectrophotometer). The distribution of trace metals accumulated in the muscle tissues of the above mentioned species was in the order- Zn > Cu> Pb> Cd. In the present study, levels of Zinc in the shell fishes ranged from 07.44±0.65 to 128.10 ±2.96 ; Cu ranged from 5 ±0.15 to 99.14 ±1.31; Pb varied from 1.67± 0.14 to 23.99 ± 0.79 and Cd ranged from 1.29± 0.35 to 7.09 ± 0.80.The concentration of the four metals exhibited spatial variation as station 1 >station 2 > station 3 > station 4, which could be a reflection of different bioavailability of metal concentrations in the water body at different stations. The results obtained showed that the metal concentrations in most of the cases were above the threshold value recommended by WHO. Metals such as Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd, can affect various aquatic organisms as well as human being either directly or indirectly as they can enter into the food chain and may be biomagnified at higher trophic levels which is one of the top concerns for human health. Essential heavy metals such as Zinc and Copper are relatively less harmful at low concentration while non-essential metals such as Cd and Pb are highly toxic even at low concentrations.

Genetic Variability and Correlation Studies in Red Rice (Oryza sativa L.) for Yield Related Traits and Grain Zinc, Iron and Protein Content

Aims: Nutrient deficiencies, particularly zinc (Zn), iron (Fe) and protein, pose severe health risks especially in children and lactating women. Red rice is significantly rich in iron, zinc and protein compared to white rice. The present investigation was undertaken in this context to elucidate information on variability and character association in red rice genotypes to identify effective selection criteria for grain yield and quality improvement of red rice genotypes. Study Design: Randomized complete block design with two replications. Place and Duration of Study: Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Brahmavar, Udupi during Kharif 2023. Methodology: A total of 108 red rice genotypes were used in the study and observations were recorded for ten characters. Protein was estimated by Kjeldhal method, zinc and iron content by Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) method. The data collected was subjected to statistical procedures using R software. Results: Analysis of variance revealed significant variation among the genotypes for all the characters studied. Grain Zn (11.4-44.7ppm), Fe (13.11-37.12ppm) and protein (5.0-11.43%) showed wide range of variability. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for Zn, number of productive tillers per plant, Fe, grain yield per plant, number of grains per panicle and plant height. Correlation studies revealed that grain yield per plant exhibited significant positive association with yield component traits. Protein and Fe content had negative association with grain yield. Conclusion: The traits that have high PCV, GCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent mean are controlled by additive gene action which is very valuable for selection. The traits that are positively correlated with grain yield can be used for indirect selection which aids crop improvement. Karthika, Bilihallga and Shahara genotypes have high protein, iron and zinc respectively, which can be used in the further breeding program to develop nutritionally rich varieties.

Evaluation and risk assessment of heavy metals in wetland soil in the University of Lagos

A study was conducted to evaluate the concentration of heavy metals, and the physicochemical and microbiological properties of wetland soils at the University of Lagos. Soil samples were randomly collected from the Faculty of Science (FSC), Lagoon Front, and Distance Learning Institute areas at depths of 5 cm, 10 cm, 15 cm, and 20 cm using a soil auger. The samples were stored in sterile nylon bags, appropriately labelled, and transported to the University of Lagos Central Research Laboratory for chemical analysis. The physicochemical characteristics measured included soil pH, determined using a pH meter, and moisture content, assessed through the oven-drying method. Heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Microbial population diversity was examined using the disc diffusion method. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 20, and mean values were evaluated using Tukey’s multiple comparison test at a probability level of P < 0.05. The results revealed that soil pH ranged from 7.20 to 8.81, with the highest value (8.81) recorded near the Faculty of Science (FSC-3). Eight heavy metals, including Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, Fe, Cu, Mn, and Zn, were analyzed. Lead concentrations ranged from 0.02 to 0.29 ppm, followed by nickel, which ranged from 0.01 to 0.13 ppm. Chromium ranged from 0.0 to 0.25 ppm, cadmium from 0.03 to 0.08 ppm, iron from 1.02 to 2.96 ppm, copper from 3.31 to 4.60 ppm, manganese from 3.31 to 5.16 ppm, and zinc from 1.67 to 9.17 ppm. Lead and zinc concentrations were found to be below the permissible limit at all locations, while chromium and cadmium were within permissible limits. However, Zn, Mn, Cu, Fe, and Ni exceeded the permissible limits. Correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation (P < 0.05) between Pb and Zn, likely due to effluents from human waste and seepage from nearby dumpsites into the lagoon, streams, or beaches. The isolated microbial flora included three bacterial genera, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus spp, and Enterobacter spp, as well as four fungal genera, Aspergillus, Penicillium, Aspergillus flavus, and Fusarium. Bacterial counts were lower than fungal counts in polluted soils, likely due to the nutrient status of the soil. The isolates were found to be tolerant to slightly alkaline pH and heavy metal pollutants, with microbial variation attributed to the impact of pH and heavy metals on the microbial population.

Comparative analysis of the physicochemical properties and trace metal content of palm oil, from selected markets in Jos south and Jos north LGA, Plateau state, Nigeria

The quality of palm oil samples collected from three different markets in Jos South and Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State were analyzed and evaluated using standard analytical laboratory procedures. The relative ranges of the physicochemical values obtained were as follows; Moisture Content (MC): 0.56 - 1.89, Iodine value (IV); 51.88 - 55.57 g I2/100g, Peroxide Value (PV): 0.98 - 4.16 mEq02/kg, Saponification Values (SV): 198.46 - 201.54 mgKOH/g, Acid Value (AV): 9.93 - 57.65, and Refractive Index (RI), 1.4576 - 1.4580. The moisture content, iodin value, pH values and acid values were found to exceed the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) permissible limits of moisture content (0.29 mgKOH/g), iodine value (45 - 53 mg I2/100g), pH (5 - 7 mg/L), and acid value (0.7 max mg/L) for edible oils respectively while the refractive index, saponification values, peroxide values falls within the SON allowable limits of refractive index (1.4612-1.4707 mg/L), saponification value (195-205 mgKOH/g) and peroxide value (10 mEq02/kg) respectively . The amounts of trace metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd) determined in the palm oil using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer ranged from Cu(0.34 - 0.52 mg/l), Zn(1.58 - 2.33 mg/l), Fe(19.18 - 26.74 mg/l), Pb(2.87 - 4.06 mg/l) and Cd(1.58 - 2.24 mg/l). However, the levels of Zn, Fe, Pb and Cd exceeded the WHO/FAO recommended values of (1.50, 1.00, 0.05 and 0.02 mg/L) respectively while only Cu concentration was below the WHO/FAO limits of 2.00 mg/L for trace metals in edible palm oil. Consequently, the results of this study shows that the palm oil consumed from these selected markets does not meet the standard quality specification for edible palm oils and hence can post significant health threat to consumers. Therefore, food regulatory agencies should strengthen their surveillance to promote food and health safety of the populace.

Toxic Effect of Heavy Metal Poisoning on Living Organisms in Water and Health Risk: A Central India Study

The main causes of this environmental catastrophe are pollutants such as iron, zinc, lead, nickel, and chromium that have entered the water system as a result of uncontrolled industrial effluent discharge in the area. This study finds resistant bacteria and shows the toxicity of heavy metals in industrial effluent near the steel industry. Five separate locations were used for water sampling, and 16s RNA sequencing of the microorganisms that were found was done along with physicochemical parameter analysis and atomic absorption spectrophotometer use. Different water samples’ conductivity, TDS, salinity, DO, turbidity, and pH levels indicate changes in the quality of the water. In addition to having higher values for each of these characteristics, Sample D3’s water samples had greater concentrations of heavy metals, suggesting contamination. Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus terreus were identified in all samples. Both Gram-negative and Gram-positive Bacilli’s resistance to heavy metals has been found to be a sign of microbial adaptation to exposure to heavy metals. 16s rRNA sequencing of microorganisms revealed their roles in heavy metal bioremediation processes. The delicate balance between the flora and fauna in the affected water bodies has been upset by the devastating losses in aquatic life. In this study, we presented the biological methods for eliminating heavy metals, which comprised both metabolically dependent and independent techniques.

Occupational exposure assessment of heavy metals in human scalp hair among tannery workers in Bahir Dar, Ethiopia: Indication of pollution

Ethiopia, is one of the African countries, has immense potential for skins and hides for the leather industries, which will play a crucial role in converting nations into manufacturing-driven economies through industrialization. The chemicals applied in the tanning process are a serious concern for employees and the community if proper safety measures are not taken. The pollution status of employees working in Anbessa and Bahir Dar tannery factories was evaluated by collecting hair samples. After the hair samples washed with acetone, and deionized water, the hair samples were digested with 4 mL of HNO3 and 2 mL of HClO4 for 1:30 h at 250 °C. The levels of metals (Cr, Pb, Zn, Cu, Ni, and Cd) were subsequently analyzed using a Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). The mean concentrations of Cu, Ni, Zn, Pb, and Cr in the Anbessa tannery factory workers were 17.34–22.75, 16.38–35.03, 235.4–369.2, 30.46–67.31, and 97.56–189.18, respectively, in the various working departments of the factory. Similarly, the concentrations of Cu, Ni, Zn, Cd, Pb, and Cr in the hair of Bahir Dar tannery workers were 30.1–105.9, 17.88–62.20, 216.9–762.1, 0.35–5.21, 33.42–91.42, and 118.5–305.7, respectively. Chromium was found to be the most accumulated metal next to Zn with in both tannery workers that highlighted significant occupational health risks. The principal component analysis (PCA) analysis provide an insights into the interactions between occupational factors and metal exposure. In conclusion, the results of hair analysis from the employees of tannery factories indicates alarming levels of metal exposure, especially for zinc and chromium, which might pose health problems in long time exposure. Thus, it's critical to monitor occupational activities that can harm human health and the environment.

Toxic heavy metals content in different agrochemicals available in markets of Bangladesh and their loads to the agricultural lands.

A study was conducted to determine the concentration of toxic heavy metals in various agrochemicals available in Bangladesh and to assess the burden of these metals on agricultural soils. An atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) was used to measure the content of 4 toxic metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni) in the aqueous extract of various agrochemicals. There were significant differences in the amounts of Cd, Pb, Cr, and Ni in different brands of insecticides (mean < 0.01, 3.16, 17.32, and 47.33 µgg-1), fungicides (mean 12.42, 10.19, 9.63, and 243.34 µgg-1), phosphatic fertilizers (mean 25.43, < 0.01, 206.33, and 210.69 µgg-1), micronutrient fertilizers (mean 0.68, < 0.01, 43.43, and 65.79 µgg-1), and plant hormones (mean < 0.01, < 0.01, 9.90, and 43.08 µgg-1). The concentrations of Cd and Ni were on anaverage higher in phosphatic fertilizers, which exceeded the maximum acceptable limit of fertilizers in Bangladesh by 2.5 and 4.2 times, respectively. The study also revealed that the burden of toxic heavy metals from agrochemicals on farm soils was in the following order: phosphatic fertilizers > fungicides > micronutrient fertilizers > plant hormones > insecticides. Among the toxic heavy metals, Ni posed the highest burden on Bangladeshi farm soils due to a single application of different agrochemicals in a year. The average total burden of each metal in the soils of Bangladesh showed a decreasing trend in the order of Ni > Cr > Cd > Pb, resulting in a total metal burden of 22.88gyear-1ha-1. Finally, the study recommended that certification about the content of metals be made mandatory for agrochemical manufacturing firms to ensure that their products entering in Bangladeshi markets are free from toxic metals.

Heavy metals toxicity in edible bivalves and risk exposure to humans through its consumption from Adyar Estuary, Tamilnadu, India – A baseline study

The Adyar estuary, situated at the heart of Chennai city, India, has been subjected to significant anthropogenic pollution over the past decade due to rapid urbanization and industrialization.This study endeavored to explore the bioaccumulation patterns of heavy metals within bivalve species including Perna viridis, Mercenaria mercenaria, and Lamellidens marginalis. Additionally, it aimed to assess the concentrations of heavy metals present in water samples obtained from ten discrete stations within the Adyar estuary across different seasonal periods. To better understand the dynamics of contamination, metal pollutants including Cd, B, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn were analyzed in the soft tissues (Gill, Kidney, and Muscle) of the bivalves using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) (ELICO's SL- 176). The study also investigated the seasonal changes in biochemical constituents affecting the nutritional quality of these edible bivalves following conventional methods, and estimated the risk (both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic) to consumers. Results showed that the biochemical constituents of Perna viridis and Mercenaria mercenaria were comparatively lower than those of the freshwater bivalve Lamellidens Marginalis (p > 0.05). Heavy metal accumulation in the mussels followed the order Mn > Zn > Cu > Pb > Fe > Cd > B. The highest uptake of metals by the bivalves occurred during the post-monsoon season, while the least uptake was observed during the monsoon season. The overall metal burden for the studied species followed the descending order M. mercenaria >P. viridis >L. marginalis. The study indicated that both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks to humans from consuming these mussels were higher due to the excessive accumulation of metals Zn and Mn in all three studied bivalves.

Bioaccumulation and health risks of chromium and cadmium in &lt;em&gt;Basella alba&lt;/em&gt; with emphasis on Urea, muriate of potash and triple super phosphate mixtures

Basella alba is a commonly consumed green leafy vegetable in South Asian countries and it is considered as an economical source of essential vitamins and dietary fibers. Urea, muriate of potash (MOP) and triple super phosphate (TSP) mixture is the most commonly used inexpensive fertilizer mixture in the commercial cultivation of B. alba. This study was conducted to assess the effect of using a mixture of Urea-MOP-TSP on the bioaccumulation potential of cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) by the leaves of B. alba. Pots treated with the Urea-MOP-TSP mixture and compost were maintained in a greenhouse with controlled light and temperature settings. The concentrations of Cd and Cr in the root zone soil, roots and leaves of B. alba were analyzed using an Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer after acid digestion. The health risk of consuming B. alba was evaluated using the daily intake of metals, health risk index and cancer risk index. The results showed that Cd and Cr can bioaccumulate in the leaves of B. alba. The bioaccumulation potential of Cr was higher than that of Cd. Although the daily intake of Cd and Cr from B. alba were below the maximum values stipulated by the WHO, the cancer risk index indicated potential cancer risks based on Cd intake due to consumption of B. alba cultivated using the Urea-MOP-TSP mixture. Furthermore, the health risks associated with the hyper-accumulation of Cd and Cr in the edible parts of B. alba cultivated using compost were significantly less compared to that of the plants treated with the Urea-MOP-TSP mixture. Therefore, if B. alba is cultivated using chemical fertilizer, it is recommended to regularly monitor the concentrations of Cd and Cr in the cultivation soil, chemical fertilizer and in the edible parts of B. alba to prevent the excessive buildup of Cd and Cr along the food chain. In addition, it is recommended to identify the potential microbial assemblages that can be inoculated to the cultivation soil to reduce the bioavailability of Cd and Cr.

Evaluation of nutrient composition of selected small indigenous fish species in Bangladesh and potential contribution to nutrient intakes

Small indigenous fish (SIF) are recognized as easily available, and abundant source of macronutrients and micronutrients in Bangladesh. The current investigation was undertaken to assess the existing heavy metal, mineral, vitamin, and others nutrient content of small indigenous freshwater fish in Bangladesh. Eight indigenous fish (Mola, Tengra, Baim, Punti, Chanda, Guchi, Koi, and Taki) were selected for this study. The AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer), ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry), and the Association of Official Analytical Chemists methods outlined were used to determine the proximate compositional analysis of fish. The highest fat content was found in koi fish. Protein was highest in both baim and taki fish. Iron, zinc, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 content were highest in mola fish. Highest calcium and phosphorus were found in the chanda and taki fish. The study concludes that small indigenous fish are valuable sources of fat, protein, ash, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12, which are important for maintaining good health. Our findings suggest that small indigenous fish could serve as a viable option for addressing the nutritional needs for the children (6–23 m age), and Pregnant and lactating women in Bangladesh as a tool to fight malnutrition.

Human health risk assessment of potentially toxic metals in fish (Cynoglossus sp.) commonly consumed in Nigeria

In order to determine the concentrations of certain metals that may be hazardous in widely consumed fish species (Cynoglossus sp.) in Nigeria, atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used. The main objectives were to determine the most likely sources of these metals and assess the potential health concerns connected with consuming fish. Fish samples were collected from Sabo market, Ile-Ife, Osun state. They were digested using HNO3 and H2O2 and subjected to elemental analysis (Fe, Zn, Mn, Pb, Cu, Cd, Co, and Cr) using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that Lead (Pb) had the lowest mean concentration of 0.56 ± 0.01 mg/kg, while Zinc (Zn) had the highest average concentration of 12.88 ± 0.18 mg/kg. Strong and substantial correlations between the studied metals were shown by the analysis of the correlation matrix and cluster patterns. The study also evaluated a number of health risk parameters, including target hazard quotient, estimated daily intake, and cancer risk, which together suggested that consuming these fish samples posed health concerns for both adults and children. According to relative risk, seafood consumption raises the most alarm about Cd levels. The study came to the conclusion that due to the propensity for these potentially hazardous metals to bioaccumulate, only a moderate amount of these fish samples should be consumed. Additionally, it is strongly advised to discourage the disposal of domestic and industrial wastes into water bodies.

Health Risk of Heavy Metal and Genotoxicity of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Extra-Virgin Olive Oils (EVOO) Available in PortHarcourt Metropolis, Nigeria

This research aims at determining the loading of contamination of some popular brands of extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO) in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, with genotoxic PAHs and Heavy Metals to ascertain its safety for consumption. The health risk associated with these heavy metals will be calculated and assessed. Extra virgin olive oil has experienced a surge in its consumption all around the world owing to its high nutritional content. Contamination with genotoxic PAHs and Heavy Metals can cause severe health defects if consumed regularly. PAHs and heavy metals are two distinct groups of ubiquitous contaminants with grave health consequences such as Tumorigenesis, carcinogenesis, organ failures etc. Samples of EVOO were analysed with Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrophotometer and Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS) for PAHs and heavy metals respectively. After extraction with Dichloromethane and digestion with aqua regia (HCl/HNO3; 3:1) respectively, the results showed the presence of few genotoxic PAHs such as benzo[a]pyrene, PAH4 and PAH8 with concentrations above regulatory limits of 0.002µg/g, 0.01µg/g and 0.01µg/g respectively. Among the heavy metals, Pb and Cd showed the most alarming levels of contamination of the heavy metals, above regulatory limits of 0.1µg/g and 0.05µg/g, however, analysis with Health Risk Index of consumption showed all samples were safe for consumption.

Evaluating metal levels and potential health risks of nail polish brands on the Ghanaian market

ABSTRACT Research has shown possible existence of heavy metals in cosmetic products, as they are known to impact colour. Assessments have been carried out on selected brands of nail polishes on Ghanaian markets in the Ashanti Region, for levels of six metals, i.e., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), aluminium (Al), chromium (Cr), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu). A total of twenty (20) nail polish samples were analysed using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer model nova 400P. The highest concentrations determined were Al (77.50 mg/L), Cu (2.126 mg/L), and Cr (25.66 mg/L). The levels of Pb, Cd, and Mn were all below detection limit. All samples analysed were below the WHO permissible limits, making them safe for use. Health risks associated with intake of these metals via dermal route, inhalation, and ingestion are evaluated, Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Hazard Index (HI) are below unity, suggesting no potential health risks associated with their use.

Ecological and health risk assessment of heavy metals in interior dust from college campus.

Contamination of college campus dust with heavy metals and the calculation of their ecological and health risks to the students and staff did not receive much attention except in recent years. This study aims to assess the ecological and human health risks of Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn in interior dust of College of Science/University campus. An atomic absorption spectrophotometer was utilized to estimate the samples that were collected from 46 locations of the college campus including: classrooms, offices, and laboratories. The Pb, Cu, Cr and Zn metals in the interior dust of the College of Science pose low potential ecological risk, whereas Cd generates medium potential ecological risk. The gained results showed that the student and staff of the College are exposed to low non-cancerous health risks (HI < 1) caused by Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn in interior dust. The total lifetime carcinogenic risks (TLCR) of Cd, Cr, and Pb are within the acceptable safe limit (10-6-10-4). The low non-carcinogenic health risks of Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn and that the carcinogenic health risks of Cd, Cr and Pb fall within acceptable safe limits, measured in the interior dust of the campus of the College of Science, does not mean neglecting the continuous assessment of those risks.

Enhancing cadmium phytoremediation in contaminated soil using sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) with EDTA and vermicompost amendments

The study hypothesis posits that EDTA, an effective chelating agent, can effectively mobilize cadmium from soil, augmenting the sunflower's natural ability to absorb and sequester heavy metals. Concurrently, vermicompost, rich in organic matter and beneficial microorganisms, enhances soil health and supports plant growth, thereby fortifying the sunflower's phytoremediative potential. The pot experiment was carried out as an overall completely randomized design (CRD) at the Sheila Dhar Institute (SDI) experimental farm, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj, in the Kharif season during the years 2023-2024. Plants were cultivated in pots with soil (5 kg) that contained varying concentrations of Cd (0, 15, 30, and 50 mg/kg), vermicompost (0 and 10 g/kg), and EDTA (0 and 2.5 mmol/kg). Plants were also cultivated in containers with clean soil (T1) as control treatment. For analyzed heavy metal (Cd) in plants with a tri-acid mixture (15 ml) containing concentrations of HNO3, H2SO4, and HClO4 in 5:1:2 ratios, use the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The result showed that the combined Treatment (T3) pot of application of Cd 0+ EDTA (2.5 mmol/kg) and vermicompost (10 g/kg) was the maximum dry biomass (14.43 g/pot) of the sunflower plant. While the maximum dose combined treatment (T12) application of Cd 50 mg/kg+ EDTA 2.5 mmol/kg and vermicompost 10 g/kg is greater than before, the maximum accumulation of Cd in the shoot and root of Helianthus annuus L. by shoot 37.16% and root 31.16%, respectively as compared to the control treatment pot Cd-50. The results indicate that the combined application of EDTA and vermicompost significantly increased cadmium uptake by sunflowers compared to untreated controls, demonstrating their synergistic effect in improving phytoremediation efficiency.

Accumulation of Cd and Pb in soils irrigated with sewage and non-sewage water in Prayagraj, India

Unmanaged agricultural fields and the extended usage of sewage irrigation water can raise the concentration of heavy metals (Cd and Pb) in the soil, turning it into barren soil. The study was conducted during 2022-23 at four sewage and non-sewage irrigated sites in Prayagraj namely Naini, Baxibandh, Rasulabad and Draupadi Ghat. The representative soil samples were taken at depths of 0-15, 15-30, 30-45 and 45-60 cm. Di-acid mixture method was used for the estimation of heavy metals (Cd and Pb) in the soil sample by AAS (Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer) (AAnalyst600, Perkin Elmer Inc., MA, USA). Contamination factor (CF) and enrichment factor % (EF) of different sites showed various results which fulfill the basic criteria of present and future prospective of research. The highest concentration of Cd and Pb was found in the surface layer (0-15 cm) of sewage and non-sewage irrigated sites at Naini i.e., Cd (4.46±0.42 and 1.05±0.08 mg/kg) and Pb (6.53±0.62 and 1.18±0.12 mg/kg) respectively. The lowest concentration of Cd and Pb was found in the sub-surface layer (45-60 cm) of sewage and non-sewage irrigated sites at Draupadi Ghat i.e., Cd (1.02±0.09 and 0.16±0.01 mg/kg) and Pb (1.68±0.12 and 0.18±0.01 mg/kg) respectively. The concentration of heavy metals cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) declined with soil profile depth in both sewage and non-sewage irrigated soils. The long-term persistence of heavy metal contamination in soil can lead to severe issues; therefore, regular monitoring of sewage-irrigated soils is necessary to minimize heavy metal pollution.

Evaluation and Health Risk Assessment of Some Heavy Metals in Pork and Beef Sold in Okpuno, Awka South, Anambra State, Nigeria

The study was undertaken to evaluate some heavy metals in beef and pork sold at Okpuno and assess their health risks. Six samples of pork and beef were bought and analysed for three months for heavy metals viz. cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) with the use of atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The results generated from the analysed heavy metals were utilised in computing the potential human health risk associated with consuming both types of meat by consumers. The result showed that in pork, Fe, Zn and Pb were highest within the three months with the following mean concentrations 0.22 ± 0.22, 0.16 ± 0.15, and 0.09 ± 0.07mg/kg respectively. Also, Fe (0.30 ± 0.25 mg/kg) and Zn (0.21 ± 0.20 mg/kg) recorded higher concentrations in beef. The estimated daily intakes of all five heavy metals were found to be low when compared to the recommended daily dietary intake. Concerning health risk, the target hazard quotient of the analysed heavy metals ranged from 0.003566 to 0.00000179 and followed the increasing order of Cd &gt; Pb &gt; Cu &gt; Fe &gt; Zn. The target hazard quotient of the five metals poses little threat to human health (THQ&lt;1). The computed carcinogenic risk for Cd (0.0000112) and Pb (0.0000000152) were within the tolerable limit (1 × 10−6 &lt; CR &lt; 1 × 10−4). However, the carcinogenic risk value for Cd in this study indicates that serious health concerns associated with cadmium toxicity may occur over time from the consumption of these meats. Findings from this study revealed that some of the heavy metals were within safety limits for human consumption, hence, intake of these meats (pork and beef) poses no threat to consumers.

Microplastic and heavy metal contamination in sediments of the high-altitude Nundkol Lake of northwestern Himalayas-Kashmir

This study investigates heavy metal and microplastic contamination in the sediment of Nundkol Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake in the northwestern Himalayas. Sediment analysis revealed heavy metal concentrations significantly exceeding background levels, with average concentrations of cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and chromium (Cr) recorded at 40.991 ppm, 54.434 ppm, 87,843.59 ppm, 1544.566 ppm, 83.288 ppm, 16.312 ppm, 104.571 ppm, and 106.514 ppm, respectively. Notably, the highest levels of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Pb were observed in sample GL2, indicating potential local geochemical anomalies. The trace elements were quantified using a Graphite Furnace - Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (Perkin Elmer-PinAAcle 900AA) for high precision.Microplastic analysis revealed an average abundance of 76±12.08 items/kg dry weight, predominantly fibers. The microplastics were mostly red (55.26 %), blue (36.84 %), orange (5.26 %), and green (2.63 %). Raman spectroscopy identified Polyamides (PA) as the predominant type (86.5 %), with the remainder being Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP). The results suggest tourism, fishing, and trekking activities as major contributors to microplastic presence. This study uniquely combines the assessment of heavy metal and microplastic contamination in a high-altitude lake, providing a comprehensive view of pollutant dynamics. The findings highlight the need for tailored mitigation strategies and comprehensive monitoring programs to protect this fragile region. Applications include informing environmental policy, guiding pollution mitigation efforts, and promoting sustainable tourism practices. This study offers valuable insights into the environmental health of high-altitude lakes and underscores the need for efforts to mitigate anthropogenic impacts.