Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry Research Articles

Mercury in four common fishes sold in Algeria and associated humans risk.

This study aimed to analyse the concentrations of mercury in fish samples available in the Algerian market and evaluate the potential health risks associated with their consumption. A total of 135 fish samples, representing the species Sardina pilchardus, Merluccius merluccius, Sparus aurata and Auxis rochie, were collected and analysed. Mercury levels were determined using thermal decomposition amalgamation Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry. Health risks were evaluated by calculating hazard quotients. The overall mean concentration was 0.19 ± 0.11 mg/kg across all species. Individual species concentrations were recorded as 0.17 ± 0.08 mg/kg for Sardina pilchardus, 0.26 ± 0.19 mg/kg for Merluccius merluccius, 0.27 ± 0.18 mg/kg for Sparus aurata and 0.23 ± 0.13 mg/kg for Auxis rochei. Hazard quotients were below 1, indicating low health risk for fish consumers. Nevertheless, it is recommended to conduct periodic monitoring of heavy metal levels in fish, coupled with ongoing risk assessments, to ensure continued consumer protection.

Seasonal Variation of Groundwater Quality in Bonny Island, Rivers State Nigeria

This study investigated the seasonal variations in physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and petroleum hydrocarbons in groundwater samples collected in nine locations in Bonny Island, Rivers State Nigeria. The water samples for the dry season were collected in December and January while for the wet season, water samples were collected in July and October. A quantitative approach was employed, involving the collection of quantitative data through field sampling and laboratory analysis. Physicochemical parameters, including pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels, were measured using standard analytical techniques. Heavy metal concentrations (Fe, Cd, etc.) were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, while petroleum hydrocarbons (total hydrocarbons and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) were analyzed through solvent extraction and gas chromatography techniques. The study revealed significant seasonal variations in several parameters, with notable significant decreases in phosphate during the wet season and significant increases in chromium and cadmium levels during the dry season (p-value < 0.05). Petroleum hydrocarbon concentrations also exhibited seasonal fluctuations, potentially influenced by precipitation patterns, oil and gas activities, and accidental spills or leaks which were observed during the dry season.

Hydrogeological assessment and contaminant transport modelling of Enyimba landfill site in Aba, Nigeria

ABSTRACT Commercial and industrial growth in cities generates hazardous waste, often disposed of in open dump sites, contaminating groundwater. Understanding pollutant movement and numerical models are crucial for effective water resource management. This study assessed hydrogeological dynamics and pollutant transfer in the Enyimba landfill site, Nigeria, using field surveys and contaminant modelling to understand groundwater quality and arsenic contamination spread. The research technique included field and laboratory experiments, as well as water sampling during both dry and wet seasons, to evaluate groundwater quality. The geochemical examination of groundwater samples revealed the amounts of several metals using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The study used contaminant transport modelling with Visual MODFLOW Flex 6.1 and MT3DMS software to simulate groundwater flow and solute transport within the aquifer layers. Predictive simulations over a 20-year timeframe demonstrated the progressive spread of arsenic pollution from the landfill, resulting in an ellipsoid-shaped plume stretching from its source. Arsenic levels have gradually increased, posing a serious threat to groundwater quality and human health. The research highlights the need for remedial measures to reduce groundwater pollution, including waste recovery and recycling facilities and geo-membrane use. It emphasizes proactive actions to protect groundwater supplies and promote environmental sustainability in the Enyimba landfill site.

Preparation and investigation of green and cheap deep eutectic solvents for determination of essential and toxic metal ions at trace levels in different coffee products

In this research, a vortex-assisted hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent-based dispersive liquid phase microextraction (VA-HDES-DLPME) method was developed to extract some essential (Fe, Mn and Zn) and toxic (Cd and Pb) metal ions from coffee products. After the VA-HDES-DLPME method, the amounts of the metal ions in the HDES-phase were determined by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). For selective extraction of metal ions, five HDESs (as extraction solvent) were prepared and tested according to the ultrasonic-assisted procedure. Some dispersive solvents were investigated to ensure the dispersion of HDES in the sample solution. In the VA-HDES-DLPME method, heating and centrifugation steps were not required to separate the HDES-phase from the sample solution. Key factors were investigated and optimized to achieve selective and rapid extraction of metal ions. Under optimized conditions, the working range of the VA-HDES-DLPME method for metal ions ranged from 0.03 to 280 μg kg−1. The detection limits of Fe(II), Mn(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II) ions were 0.01, 0.27, 0.02, 0.015, and 0.18 μg kg−1, respectively. Relative standard deviation and extraction recovery for five replicate runs of 5 μg kg−1 of metal ions were in the range of 1.3%–1.9% and 94 ± 4%-98 ± 2%, respectively. Validation of the VA-HDES-DLPME method was tested by studies on three reference materials. In the final step, the VA-HDES-DLPME method was successfully applied to microwave digestion of coffee samples using a standard addition method. The obtained quantitative recoveries showed the good accuracy of the method.

Effect of iron saturation of bovine lactoferrin on the inhibition of hepatitis B virus in vitro.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a major public health problem worldwide. Bovine lactoferrin (bLf) is a natural product that can inhibit HBV, but the effect of iron saturation on its resistance to HBV is unknown. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of iron saturation of bLf against HBV. HepG2 cells were cultured in DMEM high glucose containing 10% inactivated fetal calf serum, at 37°C, in 5% CO2. MTT method was used to detect the cytotoxicity of bLf to HepG2 cells. Apo-bLf and holo-bLf were prepared from bLf. Iron saturation of these proteins was determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Non-cytotoxic concentrations of candidate proteins were used in anti-HBV tests. Fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to detect HBV-DNA. The TC50 and TC0of bLf were 54.570mg/ml and 1.997 mg/ml, respectively. The iron saturation of bLf, apo-bLf and holo-bLf were 10.29%, 8.42% and 85.32%, respectively. In this study, four non-cytotoxic concentrations of candidate proteins (1.5, 1.0, 0.5, and 0.1 mg/ml, respectively) were used to inhibit HBV in HepG2 cells. The results showed that 1.5 mg/ml bLf and 0.1 mg/ml holo-bLf effectively impaired the HBV-DNA amplification in HBV-infected HepG2 cells (P < 0.05). However, apo-bLf, and Fe3+ did not show the anti-HBV effects. A total of 1.5 mg/ml bLf and 0.1 mg/ml holo-bLf could inhibit HBV-DNA in HepG2 cells. Complete bLf structure, appropriate concentration and iron saturation of bLf are necessary conditions for anti-HBV effects.

Significance of the apiary location for the content of copper and zinc in the bee pollen

Bee pollen is one of the most valuable direct products of honey bees. Bees as well as humans use pollen in their nutrition as a high-quality supplement. Therefore, information about the mineral content of pollen is valuable. The aim of this study was to determine the amounts of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in the bee pollen collected from the three locations (Kozarska Dubica, Petrovo, and Srbac). Quantification of copper and zinc was done by atomic absorption spectrophotometry after acid digestion (HNO3+HClO4) of pollen. The highest contents of both elements were found in the bee pollen from Kozarska Dubica (8.41 mg Cu/kg, 29.52 mg Zn/kg). The lowest Cu content was found in the samples from Petrovo (6.19 mg/kg), while the lowest Zn content was determined in the pollen from Srbac (22.06 mg/kg). Additionally, there were statistically significant differences in the content of both elements between pollen originating from different locations. As the location of the apiary was mainly determined by its proximity to potential sources of metal contamination, botanical origin of pollen and technology of pollen collection, it is important to investigate their impact in more detail on the elemental content of pollen in the future.

Assessment of the Spatial Distribution of Water Quality for Surface and Groundwater at Bonny Island, Nigeria

The aim of the study was to assess the spatial distribution of water quality for surface and ground water at Bonny Island in Rivers State, Nigeria. Surface and Groundwater samples were collected from 9 sampling locations and analyzed for physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and petroleum hydrocarbons. The contaminants in the surface and groundwater were measured using a variety of methods. Heavy metals in the water were measured using gas chromatography, PAHs were measured using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (ASS) while THC were measured using HACH DR/890 colorimeter. The water quality index (WQI) was calculated using the Weighted Arithmetic Index Method while Principal Component Analysis was used to understand the distribution of the physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and petroleum hydrocarbons. The results showed that the WQI for both surface and groundwater samples ranged from 55.22 – 125.39, indicating poor to unfit water quality for consumption. In contrast, a control location away from the industrial activities had good water quality with WQI between 35.19 and 45.77. Principal component analysis revealed that the surface water in the industrial area were contaminated with lead, Poly Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs), Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon which indicate oil and gas activities. High chloride, nitrate and sulphate levels were also observed in surface water close to the NLNG plant. Limiting further contamination of the surface and groundwater can be achieved by constant effluent and plume stack monitoring by regulatory agencies. Industrial stakeholder should set up subsidized clinics to provide treatment for any gastrointestinal illnesses or renal damage suffered by residents.

Heavy metal content in dumpsite soils and vegetables: A case study of Ondo Town, Nigeria

The investigation scrutinized the levels and distribution of five heavy metals (iron, cadmium, copper, lead, and nickel) at two dumpsites (Site A and Site B) and a control zone in Ondo Town, Nigeria. Moreover, the examination assessed the presence of these heavy metals in vegetable plants (Talinum triangulare and Chromolaena odorata) commonly encountered in these areas, employing atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Buck AAS 210 VGP). Conventional methodologies were utilized to evaluate specific soil physicochemical characteristics. In the control region, minimal levels of each metal were identified, with the exception of nickel. The quantities of metals varied, with lead at 0.02 mg/kg in the control area and iron at 3.54 mg/kg in Site A. The metal levels in both soil and vegetables investigated generally remained below the maximum thresholds established by the World Health Organization (WHO) for soil and vegetables, except for cadmium in Site A. The dumpsites and the associated vegetables displayed elevated levels of the heavy metals in comparison to the control area, suggesting a gradual accumulation of these metals in the vegetable flora. Hence, the consumption of vegetables cultivated near the examined sites and the use of these areas for agricultural activities should be discouraged.

A GIS-based analysis of heavy metals around Otukpo rice mill in Benue state

Heavy metals are primarily sourced from natural pedo-geochemical backgrounds and anthropogenic occurrences like composting, sewage sludge, aerosol deposition, and waste animal manure. The study aims to determine the heavy metals within the rice mill in Otukpo to understand the spatial distribution with the objectives to examine the heavy metals within the identified activity areas in the Otukpo rice mill, to determine the spatial distribution of heavy metals within the study area and to compare heavy metal values with the acceptable limits. Soil samples were collected from ten locations at Otukpo Rice Mill to analyze heavy metal concentrations. The samples were collected using sterile bottles and a stainless trowel, and the soil samples were analyzed for the concentrations of Cadmium, Copper, Lead, Nickel, Zinc, Mercury, Iron, Arsenic, and Chromium using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry method. The result was analyzed using interpolation to see the variation of the Heavy metals within the various activity areas. The result of the study reveals that Iron has the highest concentration at the Entrance point and lowest at the Generator house with a range value of 3.92 – 1.12mg/kg respectively. The highest concentration of Zinc was recorded at the Mechanic workshop while the lowest is at the Drying point with a range value of 0.135 – 0.872mg/kg respectively. The Husk dumpsite recorded the highest concentration of Copper (0.666mg/kg) with the Drying point recording the least (0.088 mg/kg). The study reveals uneven concentrations and highlights the effectiveness of the Geographic Information System in mapping heavy metal concentrations.

Lead Levels in the Most Consumed Mexican Foods: First Monitoring Effort

Globally, there is growing concern over the presence of lead (Pb) in foods because it is a heavy metal with several toxic effects on human health. However, monitoring studies have not been conducted in Mexico. In this study, we estimated the concentrations of Pb in the most consumed foods and identified those that exceeded the maximum limits (MLs) for Pb in foods established by the International Standards. Based on the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey, 103 foods and beverages were selected and purchased in Mexico City retail stores and markets. Samples were analyzed twice using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Values above the limit of quantification (0.0025 mg/kg) were considered to be detected. The percentage of detected values was 18%. The highest concentration was found in infant rice cereal (1.005 mg/kg), whole wheat bread (0.447 mg/kg), pre-cooked rice (0.276 mg/kg), black pepper (0.239 mg/kg), and turmeric (0.176 mg/kg). Among the foods with detected Pb, the levels in infant rice cereal, whole wheat bread, pre-cooked rice, and soy infant formula exceeded the MLs. The food groups with the highest percentages of exceeded MLs were baby foods (18%) and cereals (11%). Monitoring the concentration of contaminants in foods is essential for implementing food safety policies and protecting consumer health.

Isolation and molecular characterization of heavy metal tolerant bacteria from Kofar Ruwa scrap metal dump site in Kano Metropolis

This study aimed at molecular detection of heavy metal tolerant bacteria from Kano, Kofar Ruwa scrap metal dump site, as heavy metals are one of the major setbacks to many forms of lives and their presence in the ecosystem is rapidly increasing due to anthropogenic activities, rampant scrap metal waste disposal and other industrial wastes. Bacteria were found to be among many microorganisms that are able to tolerate many heavy metals and can reduce their toxicity or even convert them to useful resources. The heavy metal content of some soil samples analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Standard methods of enrichment culture and colony count were used to isolate a total of 12 bacterial species. Using 16S rRNA gene sequence based on molecular system, the 12 isolates were identified and grouped into one genus (Bacillus). It was also observed and reported from the results that the concentration of heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Cu, Cd, and Cr) found to be high above the WHO permissible limits (Copper-2.0, Zinc-3.0, Lead-0.4, Chromium-0.05 and Cadmium-0.03). Therefore, the bacterial isolates capable of surviving at such levels of heavy metals could have potential application in the bioremediation, bioleaching, human carcinogens substances and soil infertility of heavy metal contaminants . It is therefore, recommended that further research on these bacterial species should be carried out to address their significance for the public health interest and humanity in general.

Effect of blanching time–temperature on potassium and vitamin retention/loss in kale and spinach

AbstractHyperkalemia is common among patients with end stage kidney disease. Management involves diet modification. Hot water blanching is recommended to leach potassium in vegetables which results in losses of water‐soluble and heat labile vitamins. Evidence on the effect of blanching in reducing potassium level of locally consumed vegetables in Kenya is limited. This study sought to establish effect of hot water blanching time‐temperature on level of potassium, vitamin B1, B3 and C in kales (Brassica oleracea var. acephala) and spinach (Spinach oleracea) on potassium and vitamins B1, B3 and C retention/loss. The study adopted a full factorial experimental design. Vitamins were determined using high performance liquid chromatography. Potassium was quantified using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. To compare nutrient content between samples, independent t‐test and Analysis of Variance were used at 95% confidence level. Nutrient content of fresh kales and spinach were potassium (102 mg/100 g and 615 mg/100 g), vitamin B1 (124 μg/100 g and 51 μg/100 g), vitamin B3 (1165 μg/100 g and 812 μg/100 g) and vitamin C (102 mg/100 g and 116 mg/100 g) respectively. In kales, blanching for 20 min at 1000°C resulted to retention of 86.9%, 55.6%, 27.6% and 12.9% of vitamin B1, B3, C and potassium respectively. In spinach, blanching for 20 min at 1000°C resulted in retention of 79.9%, 88.6%, 12.2% and 40.6% retention of vitamin B1, B3, C and potassium respectively. Vitamin C and Potassium were the most sensitive to heat and leaching. Time had a greater effect than temperature in this study. This study recommends blanching of kale at 15.2 min at 800°C, spinach at 17.7 min at 840°C. Further research on optimal blanching time‐temperature for potassium and vitamin retention/loss is recommended.

Detection of Heavy Metals in Some Edible Grains Obtained from Two Markets in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria

This study investigated the level of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb and Zn) in grains sold in Central and Muda Lawal markets in Bauchi.  Our objectives include assessing heavy metal concentrations in the grains and evaluating associated health risks. We utilized Atomic  Absorption Spectrophotometry following acid digestion of grains to determine heavy metal concentrations. In Central market-sourced crops, the mean concentrations of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn were 0.06, 0.49, 0.21, 1.16, 0.15, and 0.17mg/kg respectively. Meanwhile,  crops from Muda Lawal market exhibited mean concentrations of 0.06, 0.58, 0.17, 1.62, 0.1, and 0.22 mg/kg for Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn,  respectively. Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn levels were below the permissible limits. However, Fe exceeded permissible limits in small beans, Syria  maize, and white guinea corn from Central market, as well as in Syria maize, Pearl millet II, and white guinea corn from Muda Lawal  market. The daily intake of Cd, Cu, and Pb from most studied crops exceeded the oral reference dose, posing potential health risks.  Conversely, Cr, Fe, and Zn intake levels were within acceptable limits, posing minimal health risks. Hazard quotient and hazard index  values were below 1, suggesting that crop consumption is unlikely to pose health risks. 

Rapid preconcentration and determination of Co (II) ions in aqueous medium using ultrasound assisted cloud point extraction method

A flame atomic absorption spectrophotometric technique was studied for the preconcentration and determination of of Co2+ ions in trace amounts after ultrasound enhanced enrichment of its 1-(2-pyridylazo)-2-naphthol (PAN) complexes by cloud point extraction. The Co2+ ions were firstly complexed with PAN molecules at pH 4 and the complex transferred to a surfactant (Tergitol NP-7) rich phase with a very small volume under ultrasound waves. The surfactant rich phase was separated and dissolved by 1 mL, 1.0 M HNO3 in ethanol prior to determination of Co2+ concentration by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The optimization steps of ultrasound interaction time, solution pH and surfactant volumes were achieved by response surface methodology (RSM) which is a combination of statistical approaches. Sample volume, PAN concentration and and possible interfering ions were optimized conventionally. The Co2+ ions were extracted only in 150 s at pH 4 quantitatively under optimum conditions (˃95%). The accuracy and validity of developed UA-CPE was granted by employing a certified reference material wastewater UME CRM 1204. The technique was applied to wastewater and natural water with satisfactory results.

Systematic review and meta-analysis of arsenic concentration in drinking water sources of Iran.

Recent studies have found arsenic contamination of drinking water in some parts of Iran, as in many other countries. Thus, a comprehensive systematic review is necessary to assess the distribution and concentration of arsenic in drinking water sources. For this purpose, articles published from the first identification until December 2023, were retrieved from various national and international databases. Of all the studies examined (11,726), 137 articles were selected for review based on their conceptual relationship to this survey. A review of the extracted studies presented that ICP methods (ICP-MS, ICP-OES, 56%) and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS, 34.1%) were the two most commonly used techniques for the analysis of arsenic in water samples. The order of arsenic content in the defined study areas is descending, as follows: northwest ˃ southeast ˃ southwest ˃ northeast. A review of studies performed in Iran depicted that provinces such as Kurdistan, Azerbaijan, and Kerman have the highest arsenic concentrations in water resources. Accordingly, the maximum concentration of arsenic was reported in Rayen, Kerman, and ranged from < 0.5-25,000µg/L. The primary cause of elevated arsenic levels in water resources appears to be geologic structure, including volcanic activity, biogeochemical processes, sulfur-bearing volcanic rocks, Jurassic shale, the spatial coincidence of arsenic anomalies in tube wells and springs, and, to some extent, mining activities. The findings of the presented survey indicate that it is essential to take serious measures at the national level to minimize the health risks of arsenic contamination from drinking water consumption.

Quality of edible bird’s nest treated by keratinolytic enzymes-based cleaning solution

Edible bird's nest (EBN) is one of the luxury foods that is widely used as a healthy food due to its nutritional value and therapeutic benefits. The traditional EBN washing process causes a reduction in weight and nutrient content and an increase in pollutants due to the use of hydrogen peroxide. An exploratory observation method was used to examine the quality of EBN from Collocalia fuciphaga before and after washing using a washing solution based on keratinolytic enzymes. There are four stages of EBN cleaning i.e. cleaning by tap water, ethanol solution, enzyme solution at room temperature and 50oC and drying at 40oC for 42 hrs. A total of 60 EBN (unclean, n = 30) and clean, n = 30) were analyzed using the AOAC method. The mineral content of Ca, Fe, K and Mg using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) except that P was measured by spectrophotometer. A carbohydrate estimation kit was used to measure glycoprotein content and the amino acid content was determined using the HPLC method. Evaluation of the cleanliness was carried out using a scoring system by semi-trained panelists. The results obtained showed that the clean EBNs were slightly yellowish-white in color, and the cleanliness of EBN before and after cleaning increased from 2.35 to 3.84. Clean EBN protein content decreased by 7.2% while total amino acids decreased from 38.51% to 32.71%. Clean EBN contains eight essential amino acids of 17.93% with high levels of leucine, valine, arginine, and threonine (2.42-2.96%). EBN's clean ash content increased from 3.7% to 7.8%. Carbohydrate content and iron in clean EBN were 39.19±0.76% and 14.35 mg/100 g dry matter, respectively. The high levels of carbohydrates and iron appear to be good sources of glycoprotein to support health and have the potential as an alternative source of iron for people with anemia. The stepwise EBN washing method using tapwater, ethanol and a washing solution based on keratinolytic enzymes can be applied to reduce weight loss and improve the quality of EBN.

Maternal blood lead level and its impact on cord blood hematological parameters

Introduction. More than 13 annual million deaths are caused by environmental pollutants worldwide. Urbanization, population growth, industrialization and globalization affect our lives both positively and negatively. Women can become lead exposed through occupational and environmental sources. Once lead enters the body, it is mainly deposited in diverse organs: brain, kidneys, liver and bones. The body stores lead mainly in the bones, where it accumulates over time that may be further released into the bloodstream during pregnancy, thus posing a threat to growing fetus.Aim: to examine a lead impact on newborn hematological parameters during perinatal period.Materials and Methods. A retrospective cohort study with 306 pregnant women and paired newborns was carried out. Peripheral blood lead level (BLL) in pregnant and postpartum women was analyzed by using the atomic-absorption spectrophotometry method. Blood specimens were collected for analysis in the third trimester of pregnancy.Results. We have detected a statistically significant decrease in the mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) in babies born to mothers with BLL &gt; 0.24 µmol/L vs. BLL &lt; 0.24 µmol/L. This difference may indicate a decline in hemoglobin fetal production caused by lead intoxication.Conclusion. Study corroborates an idea that pregnant women with occupational or environmental lead exposure should be monitored for BLL, which should not exceed 0.24 µmol/L during pregnancy.

Heavy metal contamination and environmental risk assessment: a case study of surface water in the Bahr Mouse stream, East Nile Delta, Egypt

Water, as an indispensable constituent of life, serves as the primary source of sustenance for all living things on Earth. The contamination of surface water with heavy metals poses a significant global health risk to humans, animals, and plants. Sharkiya Governorate, situated in the East Nile Delta region of Egypt, is particularly susceptible to surface water pollution due to various industrial, agricultural, and urban activities. The Bahr Mouse Stream, crucial for providing potable water and supporting irrigation activities in Sharkiya Governorate, caters to a population of approximately 7.7 million inhabitants. Unfortunately, this vital water source is exposed to many illegal encroachments that may cause pollution and deteriorate the water resource quality. In a comprehensive study conducted over two consecutive seasons (2019–2020), a total of 38 surface water samples were taken to assess the quantity of heavy metals in surface water destined for human consumption and other applications, supported by indices and statistics. The assessment utilized flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry to determine the concentration of key heavy metals including iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and chromium (Cr). The calculated mean value of the Water Quality Index (WQI) was found to be 39.1 during the winter season and 28.05 during the summer season. This value suggests that the surface water maintains good quality and is suitable for drinking purposes. Furthermore, the analysis indicated that the concentrations of heavy metals in the study area were below the recommended limits set by the World Health Organization and fell within the safe threshold prescribed by Egyptian legislation. Despite the identification of localized instances of illegal activities in certain areas, such as unauthorized discharges, the findings affirm that the Bahr Mouse stream is devoid of heavy metal pollution. This underscores the importance of continued vigilance and regulatory enforcement to preserve the integrity of these vital water resources.

Arsenic and mercury exposure in different insect trophic guilds from mercury mining areas in Mexico.

The exposure to arsenic and mercury in various insect trophic guilds from two mercury mining sites in Mexico was assessed. The two study sites were La Laja (LL) and La Soledad (LS) mines. Additionally, a reference site (LSR) was evaluated for LS. The terrestrial ecosystem was studied at LL, whereas both the terrestrial ecosystem and a stream called El Cedral (EC) were assessed at LS. The study sites are situated in the Biosphere Reserve Sierra Gorda (BRSG). Mercury vapor concentrations were measured with a portable analyzer, and concentrations of arsenic and mercury in environmental and biological samples were determined through atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Both pollutants were detected in all terrestrial ecosystem components (soil, air, leaves, flowers, and insects) from the two mines. The insect trophic guilds exposed included pollinivores, rhizophages, predators, coprophages, and necrophages. In LS, insects accumulated arsenic at levels 29 to 80 times higher than those found in specimens from LSR, and 10 to 46 times higher than those from LL. Similarly, mercury exposure in LS was 13 to 62 times higher than LSR, and 15 to 54 times higher than in LL. The analysis of insect exposure routes indicated potential exposure through air, soil, leaves, flowers, animal prey, carrion, and excrement. Water and sediment from EC exhibited high levels of arsenic and mercury compared to reference values, and predatory aquatic insects were exposed to both pollutants. In conclusion, insects from mercury mining sites in the BRSG are at risk.

A case-control study on asthma and obese patients: Influence of lifestyle patterns, serum trace elements, heavy metals, and total antioxidants

Background and aimAsthma is a chronic airway hyperresponsiveness disorder and Obese people have greater rates of asthma incidence and prevalence. Obesity, a complex condition, can cause nutritional metabolic problems that change trace elements and minerals. Trace element and antioxidant levels affect asthma aetiology. In this study, we aim to determine the serum levels of trace elements Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, Co, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Cr, total antioxidants (TAS), and lifestyle that determine specific clinical conditions in asthma and obesity patients from Vellore City (Tamil Nadu, India). MethodsA case-control study to determine the level of the serum trace elements with 838 subjects (n = 242 asthma patients, n = 140 asthmatic obese, n = 185 obese patients, and n = 271 controls) between the ages of 20 and 60 years was carried out. Asthma was diagnosed based on the clinical examination and pulmonary function tests. Trace element levels were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) in serum, and a DPPH-free radical scavenging assay was used to determine the total antioxidant capacity level in serum. ResultIn asthma male patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb, Cd, and Cr significantly higher, whereas in female asthma patients, serum levels of Zn, Fe, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower and Pb significantly higher. In asthmatic obese male patients, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower, and Pb, Cd, and Co were significantly higher; in asthmatic obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower, and Ni was significantly higher. In obese male patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, and TAS were significantly lower and Cd was significantly higher, and in obese female patients, Zn, Fe, Cu, Mg, and TAS were significantly lower. ConclusionThe influence of the level of trace elements, heavy metal, total antioxidant, and the lifestyle patterns, may increase the risk of asthma and obesity.