Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry Research Articles

Copper supplementation alleviates hypoxia‑induced ferroptosis and oxidative stress in neuronal cells.

Hypoxic ischemia is the primary cause of brain damage in newborns. Notably, copper supplementation has potential benefits in ischemic brain damage; however, the precise mechanisms underlying this protective effect remain unclear. In the present study, a hypoxic HT22 cell model was developed to examine the mechanism by which copper mitigates hypoxia‑induced oxidative stress. Cell viability was assessed using the Cell Counting Kit‑8 assay, mitochondrial structure was examined with a transmission electron microscope, intracellular ferrous ions and lipid reactive oxygen species levels in HT22 cells were measured using FerroOrange and BODIPY 581/591 C11 staining, copper content was determined using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy, and gene and protein expression were analyzed by reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. The present findings indicated that hypoxic exposure may lead to reduced cell viability, along with the upregulation of various markers associated with ferroptosis. Furthermore, hypoxia elevated the levels of reactive oxygen species, hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde, and decreased the activity of superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) in HT22 cells. In addition, the intracellular copper concentration exhibited a notable decrease, while supplementation with an appropriate dose of copper effectively shielded neurons from hypoxia‑induced oxidative stress and ferroptosis, and elevated cell viability in hypoxia‑exposed HT22 cells through the copper chaperone for superoxide dismutase/SOD1/glutathione peroxidase 4 axis. In conclusion, the present study identified a novel function of copper in protecting neurons from oxidative stress and ferroptosis under hypoxic conditions, providing fresh insights into the therapeutic potential of copper in mitigating hypoxia‑induced neuronal injury.

Contaminants in the Soil and Typical Crops of the Pannonian Region of Slovenia

Soil contamination and the uptake of pollutants by food crops are widespread issues that vary greatly by region and are influenced by the mineral composition of the soil and local human activities. The Pannonian region, where agriculture has played a key role since Roman times, has been particularly impacted by the long-standing agricultural and industrial practices. While soil contamination with heavy metals is monitored by the Slovenian government, microplastic contamination and the uptake of pollutants into food crops have yet to become a regular component of monitoring efforts. In this study, we conducted a preliminary investigation into soil and crop contamination across the Pannonian region, focusing on identifying harmful contaminants and their potential uptake into food crops. Both soil and crop samples were analyzed for the presence of heavy metals with proven methods such as atomic absorption spectrometry (FASS), graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), and inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) was found to be a potentially faster method of obtaining data on soil composition. Special attention was also given to the potential presence of microplastics in the region’s soils.

Development of a novel method based on extraction mediated by a semipermeable membrane to determine Cd and Cr in sugar by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry

This work proposes a novel method to determine the Cd(II) and Cr(III) content in commercial sugar samples. It is based on the extraction of the analytes (as ammonium pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate complexes) into a semipermeable membrane device (SPMD) filled with CHCl3. After extraction, the SPMD was deployed and opened, and the analytes were recovered from the organic phase by back extraction with a 4.2 mol L−1 HNO3 solution. The analytes present in the acid extract were measured with graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Under optimized conditions, the limit of quantification of the method was 1.2 and 3.1 ng g−1 for Cd(II) and Cr(III), respectively. Twelve samples of different types of sugar were analyzed. In addition, a recovery test was performed to evaluate the accuracy of the method. The recovery percentage was 90 %–102 % for Cd(II) and 85.2 %–103 % for Cr(III).

Development of CadR-based cadmium whole cell biosensor for visual detection of environmental Cd2+

BackgroundAs a threat to human health and public health, cadmium (Cd) pollution has received widespread social concern. Our previously constructed CadR-based bacterial whole cell biosensor (WCB) epCadR5 showed high sensitivity and specificity in cadmium detection. However, the application of the sensor is still hindered by the need for laboratory equipment to read the fluorescence signal output. In this study, we aimed to optimizing the sensor to make it available for visual detection of environmental cadmium and simplify the detection process to advance practical application of the sensor. ResultsBy replacing the constitutive promoter with J110, the fluorescence signal output of the sensor was significantly increased and the fluorescence leakage was decreased. In addition, the fluorescence signal output of green fluorescence protein (GFP) was enhanced by the addition of a 5′ untranslated region (5′-UTR) mlcR10. The fluorescence signal output of the WCB is sufficiently robust to be visible and distinguishable to the naked eye, which is of paramount importance for visual detection. The sensor readout can be conveniently recorded by mobile phone camera and quantified. For ease of on-site application, the WCB's visual detection procedures and conditions were further optimized and simplified. The WCB demonstrated good linearity and detection limit (1.81 μg/L) for visual detection of Cd2+ without the assistance of bulky laboratory equipment. For the detection of real environmental samples, the WCB visual detection results were close to those of WCB-flow cytometry (FACS) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS). SignificanceIn this work, we developed an easy-to-use, on-site and visual detection biosensor for monitoring environmental Cd2+. It will advance the utilization of cadmium WCBs in practical settings. The optimization and simplification strategy in the study also provide new insights into the visualization of other bacterial biosensors, and will advance the practical application of WCBs.

Determination of Trace Cobalt in Water Samples by Ionic Liquid-Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Determination of Trace Cobalt in Water Samples by Ionic Liquid-Dispersive Liquid–Liquid Microextraction and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

Identification of Major Interfering Substances for Heavy Metal Determination in Northern Sea Areas of Sri Lanka

This study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of seawater from five locations along the northern Sri Lankan coast, encompassing areas with varying degrees of anthropogenic activity. The analysis revealed significant variations in several parameters, potentially influenced by human influences. The results reveal significant variations in several parameters. For instance, turbidity levels varied from 1.88 NTU in Thalaiyadi to 13.3 NTU in Pannai, with Pannai, Myliddy, and Kakkaithivu exceeding the recommended limit of 5 NTU. Total suspended solids (TSS) ranged from 3 mg/L in Thalaiyadi to 83 mg/L in Pannai, surpassing the recommended limit of 30 mg/L. Electrical conductivity (EC) ranged from 45,700 µS/cm in Nainathivu to 49,500 µS/cm in Pannai, exceeding the typical seawater range. Nitrate levels ranged from 10.4 mg/L in Thalaiyadi to 19.1 mg/L in Myliddy. Major cations such as calcium (361 mg/L to 417 mg/L), magnesium (1,222 mg/L to 1,327 mg/L), and sodium (10,140 mg/L to 10,530 mg/L) also showed significant differences across locations. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and effective management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of anthropogenic activities on these coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, the complex seawater matrix presents challenges for heavy metal determination using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (GFAAS) due to spectral interferences from major cations, non-specific matrix effects, and interferences from organic matter, turbidity, and suspended solids. Careful consideration of these factors through background correction techniques, matrix modifiers, sample pre-treatment, and optimization of analysis parameters is crucial for accurate heavy metal determination in these environments. This study contributes to a better understanding of the environmental conditions and emphasizes the need for further research on heavy metal contamination and the development of robust analytical methods tailored to address the challenges posed by the complex seawater matrix in northern Sri Lanka.

Effects of Processing on Nickel Content and its Relationship with Proximate Composition in dead fresh and canned tuna fish in Iran

Background: The presence of toxic metals in food can be a risk to food safety and public health. Methods: The Iranian canned tuna was analyzed for nickel level after wet digestion with acids using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Results: The average concentration of nickel in canned and dead fresh fish found 4.20 ppb and 1.64 ppb. A significant difference in nickel level was observed between canned and dead fresh fish samples in this study. Although the concentration of nickel per g in the fillet after processing was relatively low, but the total amount of nickel in the sample shown change (256.01%). The results in present study showed the protein content in the canned fish increased to 13.17%. The moisture content in the processed fish decreased to 8.80%. The fat content in the canned fish increased to 12.86%. Conclusion: Although the protein and moisture contents significantly increased and decreased respectively after processing, but none of these factors were related to the change in nickel concentration. It may be recommended to regularly monitor the concentration of nickel metal in aquatic food products, so that human health was not at risk.

Cadmium Exposure and Noncommunicable Diseases in Environmentally Exposed Brazilian Population: Cross-Sectional Study without Association of GSTP1 Polymorphism.

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal which is harmful to humans and the environment. Cd levels and adverse effects may be associated with genetic polymorphisms in genes involved in its toxicokinetics. This study investigated Cd levels in 198 residents of a condominium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, built on industrial steel slag waste and the influence of glutathione S-transferase pi isoform 1 (GSTP1) rs1695 A>G polymorphism. Polymorphism was genotyped using a validated TaqMan assay; Cd levels were measured in blood (BCd) and urine (UCd) by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. Associations were evaluated by multiple logistic regression, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The mean Cd levels were 0.70 ± 0.20 µg L-1 (BCd), 0.58 ± 0.57 µg L-1 (UCd), and 0.61 ± 0.65 µg g-1 in urine corrected by creatinine (UcCd), and the Cd results were above tolerable levels (BCd > 0.5 µg L-1) in 87.4% of subjects. Higher blood Cd levels (>0.69 µg L-1) were associated with respiratory disease (OR = 2.4; 95%CI = 1.2-5.0), as almost 30% of people with respiratory diseases had higher Cd levels. The GSTP1 rs1695AA genotype frequency was 38.1%, and there were no significant differences between the SNP and Cd levels. High Cd levels and a high prevalence of diseases highlight the importance of implementing public policies and the continuous monitoring of this at-risk population.

Engineering Novel Amphiphilic Platinum(IV) Complexes to Co-Deliver Cisplatin and Doxorubicin.

In this study, we report a novel platinum-doxorubicin conjugate that demonstrates superior therapeutic indices to cisplatin, doxorubicin, or their combination, which are commonly used in cancer treatment. This new molecular structure (1) was formed by conjugating an amphiphilic Pt(IV) prodrug of cisplatin with doxorubicin. Due to its amphiphilic nature, the Pt(IV)-doxorubicin conjugate effectively penetrates cell membranes, delivering both cisplatin and doxorubicin payloads intracellularly. The intracellular accumulation of these payloads was assessed using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and fluorescence imaging. Since the therapeutic effects of cisplatin and doxorubicin stem from their ability to target nuclear DNA, we hypothesized that the amphiphilic Pt(IV)-doxorubicin conjugate (1) would effectively induce nuclear DNA damage toward killing cancer cells. To test this hypothesis, we used flow the cytometric analysis of phosphorylated H2AX (γH2AX), a biomarker of nuclear DNA damage. The Pt(IV)-doxorubicin conjugate (1) markedly induced γH2AX in treated MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells, showing higher levels than cells treated with either cisplatin or doxorubicin alone. Furthermore, MTT cell viability assays revealed that the enhanced DNA-damaging capability of complex 1 resulted in superior cytotoxicity and selectivity against human cancer cells compared to cisplatin, doxorubicin, or their combination. Overall, the development of this amphiphilic Pt(IV)-doxorubicin conjugate represents a new form of combination therapy with improved therapeutic efficacy.

Quantification of Pb2+ using thiourea functionalised metal-organic frameworks in the MEPS method followed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy analysis

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop a novel method for extracting trace amounts of Pb2+ in water samples using thiourea-functionalised MOF-199 in microextraction by packed sorbent (MEPS). The primary objectives were synthesising and characterising the sorbent, optimising extraction parameters, and evaluating the method’s performance in real-world applications. The prepared sorbent was characterised using FTIR, FESEM, and EDX. Various extraction efficiency parameters were optimised, including sample pH, sorbent amount, loading cycles, eluent cycles, sample volume, and eluent type and volume. Under optimal conditions, the proposed method demonstrated excellent analytical performance with a low limit of detection (0.005 µg L−1), limit of quantification (0.058 µg L−1), high extraction efficiency (93.8%), good linearity (0.06–40 µg L−1), and satisfactory precision (RSD = 0.41%, n = 10, CPb = 20 µg L−1). Notably, thiourea-functionalised MOF-199 exhibited significantly enhanced Pb2+ extraction ability compared to untreated MOF-199, with a saturated adsorption capacity of 99.58 mg g−1 at pH = 6. The method’s applicability was successfully demonstrated by extracting Pb2+ from three fish species’ river water, vegetables, and muscle tissues, achieving satisfactory recoveries of 99.42–100.4%. The novelty of this work lies in developing a highly efficient and sensitive MEPS method using thiourea-functionalised MOF-199 for Pb2+ extraction. Thiourea preferentially coordinates with the central Cu of the MOF-199 through its C=S functional group, leaving the nitrogen atoms free to interact with Pb2+ ions. This innovative approach offers a promising solution for trace Pb2+ analysis in complex environmental and biological matrices.

Trace Metal Bioaccumulation in Feral Pigeons (Columba livia f. domestica) and Rooks (Corvus frugilegus) Residing in the Urban Environment of Iasi City, Romania.

Nowadays, trace metal contamination within urban atmospheres is a significant and concerning global issue. In the present study, two synanthropic bird species, namely, the feral pigeon (Columba livia f. domestica) and the rook (Corvus frugilegus), were employed as bioindicators to assess the atmospheric trace metal pollution in Iasi City, Romania. The concentrations of Ni, Pb, Cd, Co, Cr, and Cu were determined through high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GF-AAS) of various tissues, including the liver, kidney, lung, heart, muscle, and bone, of feral pigeons and rooks collected in Iasi City. The order of trace metal concentrations in the tissues of feral pigeons and rooks in Iasi City was similar: Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd > Cr > Co. However, trace element values in most tissues were higher in the rook samples than in feral pigeon ones, except for Co, which had elevated levels in feral pigeon renal and cardiac tissues, and Cu, which registered the highest concentrations in feral pigeon liver and kidney tissues. While not statistically significant, Pb concentration values in the PM10 fraction of atmospheric particles positively correlated with Pb concentrations in rook kidney samples (p = 0.05). The concentration levels of Cd, Pb, and Ni in the PM10 fraction of air particles showed a positive correlation with Cd levels in the samples of pigeon heart and rook liver, kidney, and heart, Pb levels in the samples of pigeon kidney, heart, and muscle and rook liver and bone, and Ni levels in the samples of pigeon liver, kidney, and bone and rook liver, muscle, and bone, respectively.

Copper, lead, and cadmium monitoring via the small-spotted catshark (Scyliorhinus canicula; Linnaeus, 1758): space-time driven variability in Western Mediterranean populations.

The philopatric and sedentary nature of female S. canicula, its high abundance as a bycatch and resilience to regular exploitation by bottom trawl fisheries and its widespread distribution, makes it a potentially good candidate as a biomonitor species. To evaluate this potential, microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) were used to analyse Pb, Cd, and Cu in muscle tissue of individuals captured in the Western Mediterranean (Alicante, Spain). A monthly assessment of the concentration of these three analytes was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 with 300 individuals. Results showed the existence of slightly higher mean concentrations during warmer seasons for Pb and Cd with mean concentrations for Pb and Cu peaking in Autumn 2019 and during Spring 2020 in the case of Cd. Significant differences in analyte concentrations found between non-consecutive months suggested gradual variability in time. Although space-wise, time-persistent concentration hotspots were observed throughout the sample area, the magnitude of these appeared to be variable in time and should be evaluated in future studies.

Heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Ni) in insect-based products for human consumption sold by e-commerce in the EU market: Occurrence and potential health risk associated with dietary exposure

Ensuring the safety of insect-based products (IBPs) is essential considering their potential as food source in the future. Among food contaminants, heavy metals represent a concern for food safety. In this study, the concentrations of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and nickel (Ni) in 52 IBPs marketed on European e-commerce were assessed. The analyses were conducted with Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry. The impact of consuming IBPs on the toxicological reference values for each analyzed heavy metal was also assessed, to characterize the potential human health risks. Results showed a statistically significant higher concentration of Pb in products containing a percentage greater than 50% of insects compared to those with lower percentage of inclusion. Specifically, 70% of samples containing 100% insect powder exceeded the Pb levels established by regulation, while 10% exceeded the Cd limits. The Ni values, higher respect to other studies, were compared with the mean values reported by the EFSA monitoring plan on foodstuff, showing that our data mainly fell between grain and other vegetables products, which have a greater nickel content respect to products of animal origin. According to EFSA, the health risk assessment conducted suggests that consuming products containing A. diaperinus, A. domesticus, L. migratoria, and T. molitor as proposed does not significantly contribute to overall dietary exposure to heavy metals. However, 4.24% of the Margins of Exposure for Pb were above 1 but below 10, suggesting a very low health risk, while 12.30% of the Margins of Exposure for Ni were lower than 30, indicating potential health risks for sensitized individuals. The importance of rigorous monitoring of heavy metal contamination to ensure the safety of IBPs and the need for continued research to mitigate potential health risks associated with their consumption were highlighted.

Ionic Liquid-Based Solidified Floating Organic Drop Micro-Extraction Followed by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for the Determination of Mercury in Water Samples

Ionic Liquid-Based Solidified Floating Organic Drop Micro-Extraction Followed by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry for the Determination of Mercury in Water Samples

Correlation Between Severity of Schizophrenia with Certain Trace Elements and TNF-α Gene Expression and Its Circulatory Level in the Population of Western India.

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess serum trace element (TE) concentrations, TNF-α gene expression, protein levels in schizophrenia (SZ) patients, and their correlation with disease severity measured by Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) scores. Forty SZ cases and 40 healthy controls aged 18-60 were recruited. Forty (n = 40) cases who meet ICD-10 criteria for SZ and 40 (n = 40) healthy individuals (controls) between 18 and 60years of age were recruited in the study. Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and RT-qPCR (quantitative real-time PCR) were used to estimate pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α protein and gene expression. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS) were used to assess serum levels of trace elements (TEs): Fe, Zn, Cu, Mg, and Se. Compared to healthy controls, cases had significantly higher levels of TNF-α protein, as well as Fe, Cu, and Se (p < 0.05). Cu correlated positively with TNF-α protein level (rho = 0.234; p = 0.048) and gene expression (rho = 0.333; p = 0.041) and with PANSS negative (rho = 0.531), general (rho = 0.643), and total (rho = 0.541) scores. Additionally, Zn negatively correlated with serum Mg (rho = - 0.426, p < 0.01) and positively with serum Se (rho = 0.343, p < 0.05). In conclusion, elevated Cu levels could potentially contribute to the development of SZ. Elevated Cu levels in cases and their correlation with the TNF-α gene and protein and PANSS score indicate Cu's potential role in exacerbating SZ severity through inflammatory cytokines. This suggests the involvement of metals and cytokines in the pathophysiology of SZ.

Feasibility of matrix solid-phase dispersion combined with HR-CS FAAS for determination of copper in milk-based infant foods

This study proposes, for the first time, the development of an analytical method using the matrix solid-phase dispersion (MSPD) for extraction of copper from infant formulas and milk-based foods for further determination using high resolution-continuum source flame atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS FAAS). MSPD parameters were investigated, and by employing a 0.25 g sample, 0.25 g of diatomaceous earth as a solid support, 1 mol/L HNO3 as the extraction solution, and 1 min of blending, higher agreements with reference values were obtained. The limit of detection of the method was 0.35 µg/g. Accuracy was assessed by comparing the results using the following methods: i) proposed method (MSPD/HR-CS FAAS); and ii) decomposition of samples by microwave-assisted digestion (MAD) and quantification by high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GFAAS). The MSPD extracts were also quantified using HR-CS GFAAS. No significant difference was found between the results. The agreements ranged from 95 to 103 %, and no significant difference was observed between the results. Copper concentrations ranged from 0.40 to 3.8 μg g−1 using the proposed method, with relative standard deviations lower than 10 %. The proposed method proved to be efficient for the determination of copper in infant formulas and milk powder, offering advantages such quickness, simplicity, low cost, low energy consumption, reduced waste generation (due to the use of an aqueous extraction solution), utilization of materials from renewable sources (diatomaceous earth as a solid support), and minimized analyst exposure when compared to conventional sample preparation methods. These attributes align with the principles of Green Analytical Chemistry.

Development of liquid phase microextraction-based deep eutectic solvent for the extraction and determination of toxic metal ions in herbal medicines

Herein, an eco-friendly, simple, and inexpensive procedure was developed using vortex-assisted combined with deep eutectic solvent-based liquid phase microextraction (VA-LPME-DES) followed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. In the present procedure, DES was first synthesized from the combination of l-menthol and (1S)-(+)-camphor-10-sulfonic acid (CSA) in a molar ratio of 5:1, and then it was used as a green and safe extractant instead of common toxic organic solvents. The ability of the presented method was applied for the separation and preconcentration of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and arsenic (As) in herbal medicines. After optimizing all the parameters of the experiment, the linear ranges were 0.10–200 µg kg−1 with coefficient of determination (r 2) better than 0.985. The limits of detection were in the ranges of 0.03–0.15 µg kg−1. Relative standard deviation values for intra-day and inter-day of the method based on 7 replicate measurements were in the range of 1.8%–3.6% and 3.1%–7.3%, respectively. The relative recoveries of herbal medicines which have been spiked with different concentrations of metal ions were 91.5%–109.8%. The method was successfully used to analyze the heavy and toxic metals in herbal medicine samples.

Biomonitoring of urban industrial pollution using total reflection X‐ray fluorescence

AbstractEnvironmental pollution as a result of industrial activity is widespread in many urban areas including Chicago. In an effort to evaluate the heavy metal fraction originating from industrial activities, plant samples of Daucus Carota or wild carrot were collected at or adjacent to six sites located in two of Chicago's designated industrial corridors. Plants, especially herbaceous species, have been deemed suitable as environmental pollution monitors as they are able to provide information about the heavy metal fraction accessible to biota. The leaves of Daucus Carota were acid digested and analyzed with total reflection X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry TXRF. The results showed elevated heavy metal mass fractions for at least one collection site which is close to an operational railyard. Other studies investigating heavy metals in proximity to railroad operations found elevated mass fractions for several elements, but specifically manganese as well. This suggests that abrasion from shunting and breaking releases certain pollutants into the local environment. The data were compared with studies executed in Rome, Italy, and Pakistan, which used Daucus Carota to evaluate heavy metal pollution. It was found that the heavy metal mass fractions obtained for Chicago were higher for some elements indicating an increased pollutant burden for these elements. The same samples were also analyzed by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry GFAAS for the elements copper and lead and the data compared. Those two elements were chosen as they were present at each location and GFAAS has proven to be highly sensitive for them. It was found that the two methods provided comparable results for copper, whereas for lead, TXRF overestimated the mass fractions most likely due to limitations of the spectra evaluation software. The analysis of a certified reference material ‘BCR 679 white cabbage’ showed that most data obtained by TXRF were in good agreement with the certified values, with the exception of lead, which was not certified. However, since GFAAS has high sensitivity toward lead and is considered reference method for that element by regulatory agencies, a comparison between GFAAS and TXRF data for lead in the same sample can serve as good indicator for TXRF performance.

Assessment of essential and toxic trace element levels in erythrocytes of hemodialysis patients with end-stage renal disease

BackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem, resulting in end-stage kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and premature death. AimThe aim of the study was to determine the profile of essential and toxic trace elements in erythrocytes of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) and their relationship with selected anthropometric and biochemical parameters. MethodsThe present study compared the profiles of trace elements, including toxic sub-stances, in the erythrocytes of 80 hemodialysis patients with CKD with 40 healthy subjects. All patients had stage 5 CKD. The levels of Cd and Pb were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry and levels of Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu Cr, Ni, and Li by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. ResultsThe ESRD patients demonstrated significantly lower Fe and Zn concentrations and significantly higher Mn and Li and toxic Pb and Cd concentrations in erythrocytes compared to those of the healthy controls. Negative correlations were observed, among others, between the concentrations of Cu, Li, and creatinine; Cu and phosphates; Mn, Pb, and transferrin saturation while positive correlations were noted between Cu, Cr, and transferrin and Pb, Cr, and the normalized protein catabolism rate. ConclusionsThe higher concentrations of toxic elements present in the erythrocytes of CKD patients might have resulted from the reduced ability of the kidneys to excrete them. Moreover, differences in the concentrations of essential elements (Fe, Mn, Zn) between the two groups indicated that their resorption in the kidneys of CKD patients was impaired. Patients with CKD might benefit from interventions intended to reduce high, toxic concentrations of Pb and Cd and Li and Mn as an alternative supportive treatment. Iron and zinc supplementation should be a component for the treatment of anemia in CKD patients.

Exploring Blood Lead Level Determinants in Refinery Workers: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Occupational lead exposure poses a significant risk to workers in industrial settings, especially in petroleum refineries. The study aimed to examine the prevalence and determinants of high blood lead concentrations among refinery workers in Kirkuk, Iraq. It has also been aimed to provide evidence-based approaches to identify associated risk factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 187 workers from three departments (transportation, storage, and production) in a petroleum refinery from August 2023 to April 2024. Blood lead levels (BLLs) were measured using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy (GFAAS)(Agilent, Santa Clara, CA). The elevated BLLs were defined as lead levels in blood samples greater than 10 µg/dL. Data on demographic characteristics, such as occupations, smoking habits, and drinking milk, were collected using a researcher-developed information sheet. Statistical analyses included the Kruskal-Wallis test and Pearson Chi-Square test, and logistic regression was used to address the determinants of elevated BLLs. The corresponding associations were reported using odds ratios (OR) and adjusted OR(AOR) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Eighty-five percent of the workers had high BLLs, with a median BLL of 17.11 µg/dL. The findings revealed that workers employed in outdoor settings had 4.25 times higher AOR(95% CI: 1.24-14.48) of experiencing high BLLs compared to those working indoors, after adjusting for other factors. This was especially true for workers who spent nine to 16 hours outdoors. Additionally, age and smoking were also found to be associated with an increased risk of high BLLs. On the other hand, the analysis indicated that drinking milk had a protective effect against high BLLs. The high prevalence of elevated BLLs among refinery workers in Kirkuk underscores the urgency for immediate interventions. Regular monitoring of BLLs, improved training, dietary adjustments (e.g., consuming calcium and phosphate-rich milk, which can help lower BLLs), and smoking cessation programs are recommended to reduce lead exposure and safeguard workers' health. Furthermore, the results suggest that drinking milk could potentially reduce BLLs among petroleum refinery workers. Additional research is necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions and to continue monitoring exposure levels.