Elemental Anomalies Research Articles

Glioblastoma multiforme influence on the elemental homeostasis of the distant organs: the results of inter-comparison study carried out with TXRF method

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a fast-growing and aggressive brain tumor which invades the nearby brain tissue but generally does not spread to the distant organs. Nonetheless, if untreated, GBM can result in patient death in time even less than few months from the diagnosis. The influence of the tumor progress on organs other than brain is obvious but still not well described. Therefore, we examined the elemental abnormalities appearing in selected body organs (kidney, heart, spleen, lung) in two rat models of GBM. The animals used for the study were subjected to the implantation of human GBM cell lines (U87MG and T98G) characterized by different levels of invasiveness. The elemental analysis of digested organ samples was carried out using the total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) method, independently, in three European laboratories utilizing various commercially available TXRF spectrometers. The comparison of the data obtained for animals subjected to T98G and U87MG cells implantation showed a number of elemental anomalies in the examined organs. What is more, the abnormalities were found for rats even if neoplastic tumor did not develop in their brains. The most of alterations for both experimental groups were noted in the spleen and lungs, with the direction of the found element changes in these organs being the opposite. The observed disorders of element homeostasis may result from many processes occurring in the animal body as a result of implantation of cancer cells or the development of GBM, including inflammation, anemia of chronic disease or changes in iron metabolism. Tumor induced changes in organ elemental composition detected in cooperating laboratories were usually in a good agreement. In case of elements with higher atomic numbers (Fe, Cu, Zn and Se), 88% of the results were classified as fully compliant. Some discrepancies between the laboratories were found for lighter elements (P, S, K and Ca). However, also in this case, the obtained results fulfilled the requirements of full (the results from three laboratories were in agreement) or partial agreement (the results from two laboratories were in agreement).

The search for plausible economic mineral deposits in the central parts of Tanzania; insight from stream sediment geochemistry, multivariate statistics and geostatistics

Exploration success relies heavily on the data obtained, but, significantly on the type of analytical methods deployed and the interpretation reached. A poorly analyzed data may obscure the true reflectivity of the data, and thus, compromised the decision made. A combined data processing approach of descriptive statistics, enrichment-depletion data normalization, geospatial elemental distribution, and stacked overlayed comparison of elements have been used in this study. The prime purpose was to demonstrate potential elemental anomalies, and predict areas of higher degree of confidence for subsequent exploration and mineral resource evaluation. One-hundred and sixty-six stream sediment samples from the Dodoma Region of the Tanzania Craton have been examined; to reveal potential elements or mineral commodity that warrant further exploration. Forty-three elements of target were examined, as this craton is globally known for its rich earth mineral commodity. Our result indicates an enrichment of transition metals (TMs) (Cu, Ni, Co, Cr, Mn and Zn), High Field Strength Elements (Y, Th, U, Zr, Nb, Hf, Ta and Pb), Large Ion Lithophile Elements (Ba and Rb) and Rare-Earth Elements (La and Ce), Platinum Group Element (Pd and Pt) and other metals (Au, As, Bi, W, Mo and Li).Obtained results point to a likely poly-metallic sources and processes; as the underlain geology is marked largely by pegmatite and migmatites, and moderate proportion of fine clastic sedimentary rocks, and minor volcanic rocks mostly to the northern domain. Theoretically, the Large Ion Lithophile Elements (LILEs), Rare-Earth Elements (REEs) and Platinum Group Elements (PGEs) are associated with felsic rocks or variable stages of plutonic granitization. Although, the TMs are often associated with mafic-ultramafic rocks, the linkage of such metals with organic-rich shales been reported elsewhere. These rocks may equally contribute to the occurrence of other metals as stated in this paper. Its intriguing to note a strong positive correlation of Li with TMs, possibility of Li control by mafic minerals in pegmatite bodies. This work proposes a polymetallic enrichment controlled by the area geology. To suggest an alluvial mining potential of the above elements in the area, resource evaluation is a requirement. The geospatial maps reveal areas worth focusing for subsequent exploration. The adopted geostatistical methods and other approach utilized in this research are effective, indicative of handling bulk exploration data for decision and subsequent exploration.

Coral-based rare earth element proxy for hydrothermal fluid on the Yongxing Island, South China Sea

Coral reefs play an important role in the high-resolution paleoclimate and paleoenvironment records. In particular, the contents, distribution patterns and elemental anomalies of the rare earth elements can reflect the paleoceanic conditions and sedimentary environments. In this study, we focus on the SSZK1 core in the Coral Reef of Yongxing Island, South China Sea (SCS). The sediments of this core can be divided into two stages: P1 (18.00–24.95 m) and P2 (24.95–55.92 m), based on the dating results. The results show that the coral reefs of P1 and P2 stages have slightly different REE contents, but similar REE + Y patterns. In general, the REE + Y patterns of both P1 and P2 stages are similar to those of normal marine carbonates (rocks), showing LREE depletion, negative Ce anomaly and high Y/Ho ratios. This indicates that the REEs of coral preserved their pristine geochemical features although they have experienced the diagenetic alteration to some degree. However, the samples, such as the YX-2300 coral bone formed at 114 ka, have obvious positive Eu anomalies except the similar REE + Y characteristics as the normal marine carbonates (rocks). The positive Eu anomalies indicate that some hydrothermal fluids may be input into the surrounding water at the time of coral bone formation. Based on the model calculations, at least 0.1% of hydrothermal fluids were added to the surrounding seawater during the growth of YX-2300 coral bone. By comparing the data and ages, it is suggested that these hydrothermal fluids could be associated with volcanic activities on Gaojishi Island or Hainan Island. This evidence is important to trace the occurrence of modern worldwide volcanism or deep faults activity in the deep-sea.

Vibrational spectroscopy methods for investigation of the animal models of glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and devastating primary brain tumor among adults. It is highly lethal disease, as only 25% of patients survive longer than 1 year and only 5% more than 5 years from the diagnosis. To search for the new, more effective methods of treatment, the understanding of mechanisms underlying the process of tumorigenesis is needed.The new light on this problem may be shed by the analysis of biochemical anomalies of tissues affected by tumor growth. Therefore, in the present work, we applied the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and Raman microspectroscopy to evaluate changes in the distribution and structure of biomolecules appearing in the rat brain as a result of glioblastoma development. In turn, synchrotron X-ray fluorescence microscopy was utilized to determine the elemental anomalies appearing in the nervous tissue. To achieve the assumed goals of the study animal models of GBM were used. The rats were subjected to the intracranial implantation of glioma cells with different degree of invasiveness. For spectroscopic investigation brain slices taken from the area of cancer cells administration were used.The obtained results revealed, among others, the decrease content of lipids and compounds containing carbonyl groups, compositional and structural changes of proteins as well as abnormalities in the distribution of low atomic number elements within the region of tumor.

Central Java regional geochemistry: influence of environmental geology and mineral occurrences

Stream sediments geochemical surveys were undertaken in Central Java, Indonesia as a part of the Geological Agency’s geochemical mapping project with support from several universities. A total of 1583 stream sediment samples were collected from Central Java and analyzed using X-Ray Fluoresces for 29 elements. Geochemical maps were processed by the GIS software. Based on the overlay between geological and geochemical maps, there are several elemental anomalies, for example, the ultramafic formation from Kebumen showing distinctive Chromium (Cr), Cobalt (Co), and Magnesium (Mg) anomalies. Meanwhile, the potassic igneous rocks from Muria Mountain have Cerium (Ce), Lanthanum (La), and Zirconium (Zr) anomalies. Elemental anomalies related to mineral resources and mining areas such as Arsenic (As), Copper (Cu), and Lead (Pb) are found in Trenggalek, Pacitan, and Kebumen; while Barium (Ba), Iron (Fe), and Manganese (Mn) are scattered along the southern coast of Central Java. Anthropogenic elements (Chlorine (Cl), Ce, and As) spread along the north coast of Central Java probably because of pollution by industrial, farming, and urban areas. Heavy metals pollutions that were identified previously in the Bengawan Solo River flow can be seen on this geochemical map which can convincingly delineate elements anomalies due to geological and environmental conditions.

Altered Elemental Distribution in Male Rat Brain Tissue as a Predictor of Glioblastoma Multiforme Growth-Studies Using SR-XRF Microscopy.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a particularly malignant primary brain tumor. Despite enormous advances in the surgical treatment of cancer, radio- and chemotherapy, the average survival of patients suffering from this cancer does not usually exceed several months. For obvious ethical reasons, the search and testing of the new drugs and therapies of GBM cannot be carried out on humans, and for this purpose, animal models of the disease are most often used. However, to assess the efficacy and safety of the therapy basing on these models, a deep knowledge of the pathological changes associated with tumor development in the animal brain is necessary. Therefore, as part of our study, the synchrotron radiation-based X-ray fluorescence microscopy was applied for multi-elemental micro-imaging of the rat brain in which glioblastoma develops. Elemental changes occurring in animals after the implantation of two human glioma cell lines as well as the cells taken directly from a patient suffering from GBM were compared. Both the extent and intensity of elemental changes strongly correlated with the regions of glioma growth. The obtained results showed that the observation of elemental anomalies accompanying tumor development within an animal’s brain might facilitate our understanding of the pathogenesis and progress of GBM and also determine potential biomarkers of its extension. The tumors appearing in a rat’s brain were characterized by an increased accumulation of Fe and Se, whilst the tissue directly surrounding the tumor presented a higher accumulation of Cu. Furthermore, the results of the study allow us to consider Se as a potential elemental marker of GBM progression.

A review of retrieving pristine rare earth element signatures from carbonates

Rare earth element and yttrium (REY) concentrations of carbonates can be used as potential proxies to trace the geochemistry of precipitating waters and physico-chemical environments. However, it is difficult to retrieve pristine REY signatures of carbonates because they can be contaminated by non-carbonate phases and modified by post-depositional processes. In this paper, we review the controlling factors of the REY signatures, such as the total REE concentrations, REY patterns, as well as elemental anomalies (mainly La, Ce, Eu and Gd), and Y/Ho ratios from published information. The non-carbonate phases, including clastic detritus, Fe-Mn(oxyhydr)oxides and phosphates, and post-depositional modification are the important factors that contaminate pristine REY signatures. The useful proxies and relationships among element concentrations, anomalies, and ratios can be used to evaluate the non-carbonate contamination or post-depositional modification. The selection of suitable normalization standards is also critical in certain cases. We evaluate the appropriate analytical methods, dissolution processes and pre-leaches to minimize the influence of non-carbonate contamination and post-depositional modification. We conclude that partial dissolution with acetic acid may be a robust approach to retrieve pristine REY signatures from the bulk carbonates, whereas LA-ICP-MS technique is appropriate for in-situ analyses of pure carbonate microfacies. • Influencing factors of REY signatures of carbonates are reviewed. • Pristine REY signatures can be contaminated by non-carbonate phases and post-depositional modification. • Appropriate normalization standards should be selected in certain cases. • Approaches to retrieve pristine REY signatures are proposed.

A Hybrid Mechanism for Enhanced Core‐Mantle Boundary Chemical Interaction

AbstractDetection of chemical signatures from the core‐mantle boundary (CMB) could provide an unprecedented glimpse into our planet's deep interior and ancient past. Several isotopic and elemental anomalies in ocean island basalts (OIBs) have been proposed as core tracers. However, the process(es) by which particular chemical signatures from the core are conveyed into the mantle remain uncertain. Here, we propose a hybrid mechanism that results from a collaborative feedback between dynamic topography, porous infiltration of liquid metal into submerged rock, gravitational collapse of weakened metal‐silicate mush, and draw‐down of additional rocks from above in the induced small‐scale mantle circulation. Using a mantle convection model coupled to gravitational spreading of a thin layer, we show that induced mantle circulation due to the gravitational collapse of the layer becomes comparable to buoyancy‐driven mantle flow when the viscosity of the mushy layer is reduced to values ∼105 times smaller than the overlying mantle.

The thermodynamics of rare earth element liberation, mobilization and supergene enrichment during groundwater-regolith interaction

Rare earth elements (REEs) mobilize, fractionate, and are re-distributed during supergene processes, and thus provide a powerful tool with which to quantitatively reconstruct the effects of chemical weathering. Moreover, under certain conditions, the REEs can concentrate to levels in the regolith sufficient to form giant regolith-hosted REE deposits, that are now responsible for much of the World’s production of heavy REEs (HREEs). Understanding the supergene behavior of the REEs is an important first step towards applying the REEs as a geochemical tool and meeting the growing global demand of the REEs.Thermodynamic calculations predict that dissolution of the main REE minerals in REE-rich protoliths, namely synchysite-(Y), gadolinite-(Y), hingganite-(Y), yttrialite-(Y), allanite-(Ce), eudialyte, chevkinite-(Ce), britholite, euxenite and loparite-(Ce), should occur spontaneously during weathering. It therefore follows that a high abundance of these minerals in the protolith implies high mobility of the REEs during weathering and consequently a high potential for the discovery of economic REE resources. Dissolution of apatite is promoted by metamictization or structural distortion and could be also important at low pH. In contrast, some LREE-fluorocarbonate minerals, notably bastnäsite-(Ce) and parisite-(Ce), and monazite-(Ce) are likely thermodynamically stable in acidic environments. Thus, they would be preserved in the regolith. Zircon, titanite, aeschynite, fergusonite, and xenotime-(Y) are resistant to acidic dissolution, consistent with their common occurrence as residual minerals.In the cases of the world-class regolith-hosted REE deposits in South China, the groundwater is mildly acidic to circumneutral and carbonate-rich. The REEs are consequently transported dominantly as hydrated cations and carbonate complexes, depending on the pH. The general inheritance of the REE pattern of the regolith groundwater in the clay-sorbed fraction in the regolith indicates that the REEs in regolith are scavenged from the regolith groundwater. Elemental anomalies of specific REEs in the clay-sorbed fraction are very likely caused by an anomalously high REECO3+ fraction in the corresponding regolith groundwater, suggesting a preferential uptake of the REECO3+ complexes by the clay minerals, feasibly by halloysite through intercalation as interlayer complexes. This reaction is expected to be particularly important for the sorption and enrichment of the HREEs in the regolith. Depending on the pH and carbonate concentration of the water, surface complexation on clay minerals or interlayer intercalation particularly in halloysite control the pattern of REE enrichment. Mixing of the regolith groundwater with the alkaline and carbonate-rich aquifer groundwater increases the pH and carbonate concentration and, in turn, affects the ability of the mixed water to transport the HREEs. Interplay of aqueous complexation with the regolith mineralogy significantly affects the REE fractionation and re-distribution during groundwater-regolith interaction.

Comparison of Elemental Anomalies Following Implantation of Different Cell Lines of Glioblastoma Multiforme in the Rat Brain: A Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy Study.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a primary brain tumor with a very high degree of malignancy and is classified by WHO as a glioma IV. At present, the treatment of patients suffering from GBM is based on surgical resection of the tumor with maximal protection of surrounding tissues followed by radio- and pharmacological therapy using temozolomide as the most frequently recommended drug. This strategy, however, does not guarantee success and has devastating consequences. Testing of new substances or therapies having potential in the treatment of GBM as well as detection of their side effects cannot be done on humans. Animal models of the disease are usually used for these purposes, and one possibility is the implantation of human tumor cells into rodent brains. Such a solution was used in the present study the purpose of which was comparison of elemental anomalies appearing in the brain as a result of implantation of different glioblastoma cell lines. These were two commercially available cell lines (U87MG and T98G), as well as tumor cells taken directly from a patient diagnosed with GBM. Using total reflection X-ray fluorescence we determined the contents of P, S, K, Ca, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Se in implanted-left and intact-right brain hemispheres. The number of elemental anomalies registered for both hemispheres was positively correlated with the invasiveness of GBM cells and was the highest for animals subjected to U87MG cell implantation, which presented significant decrease of P, K, and Cu levels and an increase of Se concentration within the left hemisphere. The abnormality common for all three groups of animals subjected to glioma cell implantation was increased Fe level in the brain, which may result from higher blood supply or the presence of hemorrhaging regions. In the case of the intact hemisphere, elevated Fe concentration may also indicate higher neuronal activity caused by taking over some functions of the left hemisphere impaired as a result of tumor growth.

Intravenously administered d-mannitol-coated maghemite nanoparticles cause elemental anomalies in selected rat organs.

In this study novel d-mannitol coated maghemite nanoparticles (MIONPs) are presented in terms of their influence on elemental homeostasis of living organisms and for this purpose highly sensitive total reflection X-ray fluorescence was used. Because of the biological indifference of d-mannitol and presumed lower toxicity of maghemite, compared to the most commonly used magnetite in nanomedicine, such nanoparticles seem to be promising candidates for biomedical applications. The examined dose of MIONPs was comparable with one of the lowest doses used in medical diagnostics. However, it should be emphasized that the amount of iron injected in this form is still significant compared to its total content in organs, especially in kidneys or the heart, and may easily disrupt their elemental homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the elemental changes occurring in selected rat organs after injecting a low dose of MIONPs. The results were compared with those obtained for previously examined PEG-coated nanoparticles with magnetite cores. In the light of our findings the elemental changes observed after exposure to MIONPs were less extensive than those following PEG-coated magnetite nanoparticle administration.

Using regional geochemical survey data to trace anomalous samples through geochemical genes: The Tieshanlong tungsten deposit area (Southeastern China) case study

In order to determine and trace geochemical anomalies in soils, a tungsten (W) metallogene was constructed according to the idea of the gold (Au) metallogene previously developed. Based on the outcomes obtained for the Tieshanlong tungsten deposit area in southeast China from both three weathered profiles and a subset of data extracted from a regional geochemical survey database, a value of 40% of similarity between a W metallogene and an ideal ore was set as a criterion to individuate samples with potential W mineralization. Based on their W or Au metallogenes, a value of 70% of similarity was also chosen as the threshold criterion to locate samples with similar genes relative to a parent rocks or its weathered products. Based on the regional geochemical survey data available for the Tieshanlong tungsten deposit area, single elemental anomalies were determined and classified by means of the “seven levels' classification” method. Integrated anomalies were also determined and classified by using similarities (relative to their ideal ore) on W and Au metallogenes. Results indicate that the determined anomaly regions are well spatially consistent with the known deposits and that the metallogenes can be used to trace mineralized soil samples. Furthermore, the location of mineralized samples sourced by (altered) magmatic rock could be well pinpointed on geochemical genes, as well.It was also observed that a value of 80% similarity for a lithogene (a geochemical gene based on a sequence of eleven immobile elements) which, similarly to metallogene, allow to compares samples to a specific parent rock and its weathered products, may be too stringent in the case of sedimentary rocks (even if metamorphosed) due to their relevant geochemical heterogeneity.

Formation of the Ce-Nd mantle array: Crustal extraction vs. recycling by subduction

We present new measurements of 138Ce/142Ce and 143Nd/144Nd isotopic ratios in terrestrial and extra-terrestrial samples. The mean value obtained from nine chondrites defines the 138Ce/142Ce ratio of the chondritic uniform reservoir (CHUR) as 0.02256577±66 (2sd). MORBs and OIBs define the mantle array in the εNd vs. εCe diagram to be εNd=−7.3(±0.5)×εCe+0.4(±0.3). From MORB measurements, we derive the isotopic composition of the depleted MORB mantle (DMM) to be εCe=−1.1±0.6 (2sd). Both CHUR and a modelled early-depleted mantle reservoir plot on the mantle array. Thus, the precise determination of the mantle array does not further constrain the La/Ce and Sm/Nd ratios of the bulk silicate Earth (BSE; i.e., primitive mantle). The composition of 1.8 Ga upper continental crust obtained from aeolian sediments is εCe=1.8±0.3 (2sd; εNd=−11.2), and that of its 2.2 Ga equivalent is εCe=2.3±0.3 (2sd; εNd=−17). Binary mixing models between depleted (DMM) and enriched (upper crust or mafic crust composition) components do not reproduce the linear Ce-Nd mantle array but plots close to the island arc basalt data. When the bulk Ce isotopic composition of the continental crust is calculated from the range of accepted Nd isotope values and a mass-balance budget of the BSE, the mixing curves are closer to the mantle array. However the calculated Ce isotopic composition for the bulk crust is always less radiogenic than measurements. Adjusting the Ce-Nd isotopic composition or the Ce/Nd ratio of the end-members to fully linearise the mixing curve leads to unrealistic values never measured in terrestrial samples. We propose a recycling model to reconstruct the mantle array with the participation of both oceanic crust and sediments in the mantle through time. Cerium is a redox sensitive element, making the La-Ce and Sm-Nd systematics an ideal combination to investigate sediment recycling through time. In this recycling model, the most extreme EM-like signatures require the involvement of oceanic sediments that formed under reduced conditions before the Great Oxygenation Event at 2.4 Ga, and which are devoid of Ce elemental anomalies.

High‐resolution reconstruction of 8.2‐ka BP event documented in Père Noël cave, southern Belgium

ABSTRACTA distinct shift in δ18O, δ13C and trace element contents of the Père Noël (PN) stalagmite from southern Belgium revealed an abrupt climatic anomaly at 8.13 ± 0.03 ka BP (before present = before 1950 AD). This anomaly is characterized by a maximum drop in the δ18O (−1.4‰ compared the mean) between 8.13 and 8.10 ka BP (±0.03). This drop of δ18O coincides with a decrease in δ13C and trace element (Sr, Ba and Mg) concentrations suggesting drier conditions. Our precise chronology provides the timing of the outburst of proglacial lakes Agassiz and Ojibway that caused the δ18O, δ13C and trace elemental anomalies at 8.13–8.10 ± 0.03 ka BP, which corresponds to the 8.2‐ka BP event. The PN stalagmite bears δ18O values in fluid inclusions that covary with the δ18O values in calcite, suggesting that the speleothem calcite δ18O primarily reflects variations in the rainfall δ18O. Comparison of the PN record with different marine and terrestrial archives during the 8.2‐ka BP event shows a good agreement in timing and duration, suggesting that the PN speleothem can be regarded as a valuable proxy to better understand the 8.2‐ka BP event.

Enhanced terrestrial input into Paleoproterozoic to Mesoproterozoic carbonates in the southwestern South China Block during the fragmentation of the Columbia supercontinent

Bulk rock elemental, C, O and Sr isotopic data for carbonates of the Palaeoproterozoic to Mesoproterozoic Luoxue and Luzhijiang formations from the southwestern margin of the South China Block are studied to infer aspects of the provenance and depositional environment. Elemental tracers demonstrate that the upper Luoxue and Luzhijiang carbonates were not significantly affected by crustal contamination and diagenetic/metamorphic overprinting, thus preserving their primary chemical signature, which is also consistent with the preservation of primary sedimentary structures and textures. In contrast, C, O and Sr isotopes of the lower Luoxue carbonates appear to have been variably altered by ore-forming fluids. All the Luoxue carbonates lack enrichment of Y, corresponding to chondritic Y/Ho ratios of 25–31, in contrast to modern seawater and marine carbonates. Shale-normalized REE + Y patterns for the Luoxue carbonates show pronounced enrichment in middle REE, but lack strong elemental anomalies (La, Gd, Y). Based on petrographic and sedimentological characteristics, the Luoxue Formation was probably formed in a shallow water, epicontinental basin with restricted but variable exchange to the open ocean, and dominant terrigenous input. The Luzhijiang carbonates, on the other hand, are pure chemical sediments devoid of detrital material, and shale (PAAS) normalized REE + Y distributions exhibit positive La, Gd, and Y (Y/Ho: 39–47) anomalies, which are typical features of marine waters throughout the Archean and Proterozoic periods. 87Sr/86Sr values in both the upper Luoxue and Luzhijiang carbonates are significantly higher than coeval seawater, indicative of enhanced contribution from weathered continental sources. This increased influx from terrestrial sources very likely corresponds to the break-up of the hypothesized Columbia/Nuna supercontinent, as the Luoxue and Luzhijiang carbonates were deposited in a rift-related basin associated with supercontinental fragmentation.

Exploratory analysis of multi-element geochemical patterns in soil from the Sarno River Basin (Campania region, southern Italy) through compositional data analysis (CODA)

The Sarno River Basin (south-west Italy), nestled between the Somma–Vesuvius volcanic complex and the limestone formations of the Campania–Apennine Chain, is one of the most polluted river basins in Europe due to widespread industrialization and intensive agriculture. Water from the Sarno River, which is heavily contaminated by the discharge of human and industrial wastes, is partially used for irrigation on the agricultural fields surrounding it. We apply compositional data analysis to 319 soil samples, collected during two field campaigns along the river course and throughout the basin, to determine the concentration and possible origin (anthropogenic and/or geogenic) of the elemental anomalies, including potentially toxic elements (PTEs).The concentrations of 53 elements were determined using ICP-MS and, subsequently, log-transformed. Using hierarchical clustering, clr-biplot and a principal factor analysis, the variability and the correlations between a subset of extracted variables (26 elements) were identified. Factor score interpolated maps were then generated using both lognormal data (NDR) and clr-transformed data to better visualize the distribution and potential sources of the patterns in the Sarno Basin.The underlying geology substrata appear to be associated with raised levels of Na, K, P, Rb, Ba, V, Co, B, Zr, and Li, due to the presence of pyroclastic rocks from Mt. Somma–Vesuvius. Similarly, elevated Pb, Zn, Cd, and Hg concentrations are most likely related to the geological and anthropogenic sources, the underlying volcanic rocks, and contamination from fossil fuel combustion associated with nearby urban centers. Interpolated factor score maps and the clr-biplot show a clear correlation between Ni and Cr in samples taken along the Sarno River, and Ca and Mg near the Solofra district. After considering nearby anthropogenic sources, the Ni and Cr are PTEs most likely originating from the Solofra tannery industry, while Ca and Mg correlate to the underlying limestone-rich soils of the area.This study shows the applicability of the log-ratio transformations to these studies, as they clearly show relationships and dependencies between elements which can be lost when univariate and classical multivariate analyses are employed on raw and lognormal data.

The elemental changes occurring in the rat liver after exposure to PEG-coated iron oxide nanoparticles: total reflection x-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectroscopy study

The main goal of this study was to evaluate in vivo effects of low dose of PEG-coated magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) on the rat liver. The IONPs was intravenously injected into rats at a dose equaled to 0.03 mg of Fe per 1 kg of an animal body weight. The elemental composition of liver tissue in rats subjected to IONPs action and controls were compared. Moreover, in order to determine the dynamics of nanoparticles (NPs) induced elemental changes, the tissues taken from animals 2 hours, 24 hours, and 7 days from IONPs injection were examined. The analysis of subtle elemental anomalies occurring as a result of IONPs action required application of highly sensitive analytical method. The total reflection X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy perfectly meets such requirements and therefore it was used in this study. The obtained results showed increasing trend of Fe level within liver occurring 2 hours from IONPs injection. One day after NPs administration, the liver Fe content presented the baseline level what suggests only the short-term accumulation of nanoparticles in the organ. The Ca, Cu, and Zn levels changed significantly as a result of NPs action. Moreover, the anomalies in their accumulation were still observed 7 days after IONPs injection. The level of Cu decreased while those of Ca and Zn increased in the liver of NPs-treated animals. The reduced liver Cu, followed by elevated serum level of this element, might be related in triggering the mechanisms responsible for Fe metabolism in the organism.

Dispersion of gold and other metals by trees, gravels and soils near Boddington Gold Deposit, Western Australia

South west Western Australia is host to some of the world's largest mineral deposits including bauxite, Ta and Au. The giant Boddington Gold Mine exploits one such deposit and is located in forested areas south east of Perth. Exploration for Au in this area has concentrated on sampling surficial Fe-rich lateritic residuum and its degradation products and was how Boddington was originally discovered; it has a multi-element signature. Despite its location in forest there has been little biogeochemistry undertaken in this area or consideration of whether trees (including eucalypts) are agents of dispersion of metals in this terrain. Eucalyptus trees have been shown to be responsible for forming anomalies above gold deposits in semi-arid areas of Australia and the location of Boddington in a humid environment provided an important comparison in which to investigate this possibility.The Golden Triangle Au prospect near Boddington Gold Deposit is located on the flank of a small lateritic hill. Limited shallow drilling has identified sub-economic mineralisation with some metre composite cuttings grading >1ppm Au. A selection of different trees and shrubs, organic soil and ferruginous pisoliths were collected over a surface traverse of 800m at 50m intervals from across the prospect. Samples were analysed for major elements, Au and several pathfinder metals. Additional foliage samples were collected from the same trees over mineralisation and background to test for sample heterogeneity.Golden Triangle vegetation samples were generally anomalous in Au and pathfinder elements (e.g. Ag, Bi, W and Sn). For example, Banksia and Macrozamia had elemental anomalies in Bi and Ag located directly above or down slope of mineralisation although for Eucalyptus the anomaly over mineralisation itself was poorly defined. Topsoil containing organic matter overlying the ferruginous pisoliths was particularly anomalous in Au (mean of 47ppb against of background of <5ppb). Pathfinder element anomalies were present in all sample media (soil, vegetation and pisoliths) although the specific elements and tenor of the anomaly varied between sample media.The results demonstrate a biotic (plant) influence on the dispersion of metallic elements at Golden Triangle prospect. This process of dispersion may serve to not only disperse and dilute metals in the regolith but potentially create a larger exploration target to detect the presence of the mineralisation. The anomalous metal content of the pisoliths themselves may be due to an earlier biotic mechanism of metal mobilisation from the deeper regolith or be solely a result of inorganic processes as previously thought. The sampling of deep-rooted trees and soil beneath them may assist in the discovery of mineral deposits in areas where there is transported material or leached regolith.

Various ketogenic diets can differently support brain resistance against experimentally evoked seizures and seizure-induced elemental anomalies of hippocampal formation

In this paper the influence of two different ketogenic diets (KDs) on the seizure-evoked elemental anomalies of hippocampal formation was examined. To achieve this purpose normal and pilocarpine treated rats previously fed with one of the two high fat and carbohydrate restricted diets were compared with animals on standard laboratory diet. The ketogenic ratios of the examined KDs were equal to 5:1 (KD1) and 9:1 (KD2).KD1 and standard diet fed animals presented similar patterns of seizure-evoked elemental changes in hippocampal formation. Also the analysis of behavioral data recorded after pilocarpine injection did not show any significant differences in intensity and duration of seizures between KD1 and standard diet fed animals.Higher ketogenic ratio KD2 introduced in the normal hippocampal formation prolonged changes in the accumulation of P, K, Zn and Ca. Despite this, both the intensity and duration of seizures were significantly reduced in rats fed with KD2 which suggests that its saving action on the nerve tissue may protect brain from seizure propagation. Also seizure-evoked elemental anomalies in KD2 animals were different than those observed for rats both on KD1 and standard diets. The comparison of seizure experiencing and normal rats on KD2, did not show any statistically significant differences in elemental composition of CA1 and H hippocampal areas whilst in CA3 area only Zn level changed as a result of seizures. DG was the area mostly affected by seizures in KD2 fed rats but areal densities of all examined elements increased in this hippocampal region.

The multi-attribute anomaly structure model: An exploration tool for the Zhaojikou epithermal Pb-Zn deposit, China

Traditionally, a geochemical exploration index is based mainly on elemental concentration, and focusses on positive anomalies rather than negative anomalies. This results in two problems: firstly, it ignores depleted elements, negative anomalies, and immobile elements, and secondly, elemental concentration does not directly reveal the degree of elemental mobility. To discover information on element mobility and utilize negative anomalies, the Isocon method was employed to calculate mass-transfer, and study anomalous elemental characteristics in the Zhaojikou epithermal Pb-Zn deposit, SE China. Subsequently, the concept of a multi-attribute anomaly structure is proposed, which refers to enrichment and depletion zones of multiple elements co-existing in an ore deposit. This includes major elements, mineralizing agents, and ore-forming and associated elements.Results show that there are system mass-transfer (μ), Na2O, and S anomalies, correlations between S-FeO-Pb+Zn, and Pb, Zn, Cu, Ag, As, and Sb anomalies in the multi-attribute anomaly structure model of the Zhaojikou Pb-Zn ore deposit. The presence of the μ anomaly indicates there was at least one mass-exchange geological event, with the extent of the anomaly representing the impact area of the event(s). The extent of the negative Na2O anomaly represents the fluid-rock interaction zones. The positive S anomaly suggests the presence of sulphides. The correlations between S-FeO-Pb+Zn reveal there are numerous other economic metal sulphides (i.e., excluding noneconomic Fe-rich sulphides like pyrite). Ore-forming and associated elemental anomalies indicate the potential presence of polymetallic sulphides. μ>0.3, ΔCNa2OO-A<−7kg, and μNa2O<−50% can act as evaluation indices for ore prospecting. There are two anomalous centres in the Zhaojikou Pb-Zn ore deposit. The shallower and larger one corresponds solely to the presence of the known orebodies. However, the deeper and smaller one is not currently known, and suggests ores may be present at depth. In summary, the Zhaojikou district has great potential for additional ore deposits at depth. We suggest directing further work deeper, mainly along NE–SW Dongzhi Fault.