Graphite Furnace Research Articles

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

Risks and benefits associated with the consumption of three species of fish native to the Brazilian Amazon

In the Brazilian Amazon, fish is part of the diet and culture of the native population. With industrialization and the pollution of rivers, the number of cases of people contaminated by toxic pollutants present in fish has grown. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze three species of fish from the Amazon, the curimatã, pescada-gó, and piramutaba, to investigate the risks and benefits associated with the consumption of their muscles and livers in different seasonal periods. The amino acid and fatty acid profiles were investigated by liquid and gas chromatography, respectively. The essential elements (Cu, Fe, Mg, Na, and Zn) were quantified by flame atomic emission spectrometry, and the contaminants lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) by flame atomic emission spectrometry and graphite furnace. Significant amounts of unsaturated fatty acids were found in muscle and liver. The polyunsaturated acids were more present in the pescada-gó and the monounsaturated in the curimatã. Contaminants (Pb and Hg) were found at levels higher than the limit allowed by Brazilian legislation. The curimatã species contributed more than 131.79% of the Hg, exceeding the tolerable weekly limit, and is considered unfit for consumption. The study demonstrated that constant biomonitoring of species traded in the region is necessary to ensure food security.

The Assessment of Selenium, Aluminum, and Zinc in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

ASD is a complex condition defined by many causes, one of them being excessive concentrations of necessary and harmful chemicals in children. The serum, hair, and nails of children with ASD have lower levels of critical trace elements, according to studies. It is quite obvious that bio elements are involved in physiology and pathophysiology. Thus, this study examined trace element contents in serum samples from children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), specifically zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al), and selenium (Se). The study also looked for links between trace element levels and autistic severity. The study included 47 children with autism spectrum disorder, and the Gilliam's Scale was used for severity. The study also included 53 healthy kids with age and gender-matched with those of ASD. For serum trace element analysis, graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used. The study found significant decreases in selenium and zinc concentration (OR, 5.25; CI, 1.96 ~ 14.08; p < 0.001) and increases in aluminum level (OR, 39.34; CI, 8.20 ~ 89.45; p < 0.001) in children with ASD compared to the control group. The area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.85 for Se, 0.98 for Al, and 0.7 for Zn showed high sensitivity and specificity for all parameters. Results indicate a strong positive connection between ASD and their levels of selenium (Se) and zinc (Zn) (β, 0.48; CI, 0.280 ~ 0.679; p < 0.001 and β, 0.31; CI, 0.10 ~ 0.52; p = 0.005). There is a negative correlation between ASD and aluminum (Al) (β 0.83; CI, 0.71 ~ 0.95; p < 0.001). This element may be a biomarker for autism in youngsters. High odds ratio (OR) values indicate trace element risk in autistic children.

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.

Bismuth Film along with dsDNA-Modified Electrode Surfaces as Promising (bio)Sensors in the Analysis of Heavy Metals in Soils.

Heavy metals constitute pollutants that are particularly common in air, water, and soil. They are present in both urban and rural environments, on land, and in marine ecosystems, where they cause serious environmental problems since they do not degrade easily, remain almost unchanged for long periods, and bioaccumulate. The detection and especially the quantification of metals require a systematic process. Regular monitoring is necessary because of seasonal variations in metal levels. Consequently, there is a significant need for rapid and low-cost metal determination methods. In this study, we compare and analytically validate absorption spectrometry with a sensitive voltammetric method, which uses a bismuth film-plated electrode surface and applies stripping voltammetry. Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) represents a well-established analytical technique, while the applicability of anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) in complicated sample matrices such as soil samples is currently unknown. This sample-handling challenge is investigated in the present study. The results show that the AAS and ASV methods were satisfactorily correlated and showed that the metal concentration in soils was lower than the limit values but with an increasing trend. Therefore, continuous monitoring of metal levels in the urban complex of a city is necessary and a matter of great importance. The limits of detection of cadmium (Cd) were lower when using the stripping voltammetry (SWASV) graphite furnace technique compared with those obtained with AAS when using the graphite furnace. However, when using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy (flame-AAS), the measurements tended to overestimate the concentration of Cd compared with the values found using SWASV. This highlights the differences in sensitivity and accuracy between these analytical methods for detecting Cd. The SWASV method has the advantage of being cheaper and faster, enabling the simultaneous determination of heavy elements across the range of concentrations that these elements can occur in Mediterranean soils. Additionally, a dsDNA biosensor is suggested for the discrimination of Cu(I) along with Cu(II) based on the oxidation peak of guanine, and adenine residues can be applied in the redox speciation analysis of copper in soil, which represents an issue of great importance.

Assessment of lead contamination in soil and tap water in daycare facilities in Addis Ababa: implications for children's health

ABSTRACT In recent years, lead poisoning has been recognized as a serious environmental health problem throughout the world, particularly, for children in developing countries. The objective of the study was to investigate the lead level in the water and soil of daycare facilities in Addis Ababa. Graphite furnaces atomic absorption spectrometry was used to analyze the concentration of lead in soil and tap water of 28 daycare centers. The result indicated that the mean levels of lead in soil and water were 0.00237 mg/g and 8.26 μg/L, respectively, which are below the permissible values of 0.1 mg/g and 10 μg/L according to WHO standards. The blood lead levels and exposure to lead in children were calculated using the integrated exposure uptake biokinetic model as per United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guidelines. The mean blood lead level was 1.78 μg/dL, and the model also predicted that 6.497% of the children in the city may have blood lead levels above the Center for Disease Control recommended reference value of 3.5 μg/dL. Even if the values were below the reference, there is no safe blood lead level since even a small amount can have adverse effects on children.

Rapid determination of germanium in lignite coal and coal-related solid byproducts by graphite furnace digestion inductively coupled plasma emission spectroscopy

This study developed a rapid and efficient graphite furnace digestion combined with inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) method, enabling precise quantification of germanium (Ge) in coal and various coal-derived metallurgical byproducts across a broad concentration level (∼ppm-n%). The graphite furnace digestion conditions were examined intensively as a function of the acid amounts of HNO3 and HF (5–10 mL), temperature (80–180 °C), time (1–5 h), and acid drive methods (H3BO3 neutralization versus heating). Coal references including SARM 19, SARM 20, NIST SRM 1632e, and fly ash standard NIST SRM 2689 were tested. The optimum recovery of germanium was obtained when the HNO3 dosage, HF dosage, solid sample mass, temperature, and duration time were 10 mL, 5 mL, 0.1 g, 80 °C and 1 h. Agreement of 95.15–96.54 % between the measured and certified value was obtained under the optimum conditions. The spiked recovery was 103.23–103.54 %, indicating the matrix-analytes interactions were negligible. Boric acid neutralization reduced the recovery rates to 47.2–49.3 % and was not be appropriate for driving HF. The optimal spectral line for determining Ge is at a wavelength of 265.117 nm, at which the limit of detect and the limit of quantification were 0.46 μg L−1 and 1.53 μg L−1, respectively. The applicability of the method was validated by quantifying Ge in Ge-rich lignite, fly ashes (FA), and chlorinated distillation residue (CR) samples. The concentration of Ge in coals was 44.75–225.41 μg g−1, the content in FA was 0.68%–2.3 %, and the content in CR was 0.18 %, with the uncertainty of the method obtained being less than 0.5 %. X-ray fluorescence spectrometer (XRF) was used to verify the results. The difference between XRF data and ICP-OES data was less than 5 %, confirming the accuracy and reproductivity of the analytical method.

Quantifying heavy metal and radionuclide contamination in fish and water proximal to a uranium tailings facility: A Linshui River basin investigation, China

BackgroundThe objective of this study is to evaluate the concentrations of heavy metals and radionuclides in water and fish samples collected from six designated sampling stations along the Linshui River, in close proximity to a Uranium Tailing Pond situated in China. Additionally, it seeks to estimate the bioaccumulation of heavy metals and conduct risk assessments, both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic, for consumers. MethodsWater and fish samples (yellowhead catfish and common carp) were systematically collected from six stations along the river from January to June 2023, adhering to ethical standards and standard protocols for assessing water quality. Samples underwent chemical preparation and analysis for heavy metals using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry and Cold Vapor Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy, and for radionuclides using gamma spectrometry, with all methods validated for accuracy. ResultsThe water samples showed metal and radionuclide concentrations within acceptable limits, except for higher levels of U and Th compared to background values. Heavy metal concentrations were higher in common carp compared to yellowhead catfish, with both species exhibiting a similar trend. While non-carcinogenic health risk, as indicated by target hazard quotients, was low for consumers, the health risk data emphasized the carcinogenic threats posed by U238 and Th234. ConclusionsThe study highlights the importance of implementing comprehensive river restoration measures. Additionally, the bioconcentration factor values indicate minimal accumulation of heavy metals in the muscle tissue of fish.

Determination of Fluorine by Ion-Selective Electrode and High-Resolution Continuum Source Graphite Furnace Molecular Absorption Spectrometry with Respect to Animal Feed Safety.

Fluorine, depending on its concentration and chemical form, is essential or toxic to humans and animals. Therefore, it is crucial to be able to determine it reliably. In this study, fluorine was determined in animal feed after extraction with HCl (gastric juice simulation). The standard potentiometric method with a fluoride-selective electrode (ISE) and newly developed high-resolution continuum source graphite furnace molecular absorption spectrometry (HR-CS GFMAS) method was applied. Feed samples turned out to be a challenge for HR-CS GFMAS. Chemical interferences (formation of competing molecules, CaF, GaCl, and GaP, instead of the target GaF molecule) and spectral effects (including a phosphorous molecule spectrum and atomic lines) were identified. An additional difficulty was caused by reagent contamination with F and memory effects. Difficulties were eliminated/reduced. The quality of ISE analysis was multi-directionally verified (including comprehensive proficiency testing). A risk of inaccuracy at low F concentration, where the calibration relationship is nonlinear, was investigated. The results of both methods were consistent, which confirms the accuracy of the methods and informs that the extracted fluorine is in fluoride form. The results of extensive ISE tests conducted in Poland in 2021-2023 have shown that, in most cases, the fluoride content is significantly lower than the threshold values.

Arsenic modifies the effect of folic acid in spina bifida prevention, a large hospital-based case-control study in Bangladesh

BackgroundSpina bifida, a developmental malformation of the spinal cord, is associated with high rates of mortality and disability. Although folic acid-based preventive strategies have been successful in reducing rates of spina bifida, some areas continue to be at higher risk because of chemical exposures. Bangladesh has high arsenic exposures through contaminated drinking water and high rates of spina bifida. This study examines the relationships between mother’s arsenic exposure, folic acid, and spina bifida risk in Bangladesh.MethodsWe conducted a hospital-based case-control study at the National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS&H) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, between December 2016 and December 2022. Cases were infants under age one year with spina bifida and further classified by a neurosurgeon and imaging. Controls were drawn from children seen at NINS&H and nearby Dhaka Shishu Hospital. Mothers reported folic acid use during pregnancy, and we assessed folate status with serum assays. Arsenic exposure was estimated in drinking water using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry (GF-AAS) and in toenails using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). We used logistic regression to examine the associations between arsenic and spina bifida. We used stratified models to examine the associations between folic acid and spina bifida at different levels of arsenic exposure.ResultsWe evaluated data from 294 cases of spina bifida and 163 controls. We did not find a main effect of mother’s arsenic exposure on spina bifida risk. However, in stratified analyses, folic acid use was associated with lower odds of spina bifida (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.50, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25-1.00, p = 0.05) among women with toenail arsenic concentrations below the median value of 0.46 µg/g, and no association was seen among mothers with toenail arsenic concentrations higher than 0.46 µg/g (adjusted OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.52–2.29, p = 0.82).ConclusionsMother’s arsenic exposure modified the protective association of folic acid with spina bifida. Increased surveillance and additional preventive strategies, such as folic acid fortification and reduction of arsenic, are needed in areas of high arsenic exposure.

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.

Toxicity and magnetometry evaluation of the uptake of core-shell maghemite-silica nanoparticles by neuroblastoma cells.

Nanoparticle uptake by cells is a key parameter in their performance in biomedical applications. However, the use of quantitative, non-destructive techniques to obtain the amount of nanoparticles internalized by cells is still uncommon. We have studied the cellular uptake and the toxicity of core-shell maghemite-silica magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), with a core diameter of 9 nm and a shell thickness of 3 nm. The internalization of the nanoparticles by mouse neuroblastoma 2a cells was evaluated by sensitive and non-destructive Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) magnetometry and corroborated by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectroscopy. We were thus able to study the toxicity of the nanoparticles for well-quantified MNP uptake in terms of nanoparticle density within the cell. No significant variation in cell viability or growth rate was detected for any tested exposure. Yet, an increase in both the amount of mitochondrial superoxide and in the lysosomal activity was detected for the highest concentration (100 μg ml-1) and incubation time (24 h), suggesting the onset of a disruption in ROS homeostasis, which may lead to an impairment in antioxidant responses. Our results validate SQUID magnetometry as a sensitive technique to quantify MNP uptake and demonstrate the non-toxic nature of these core-shell MNPs under our culture conditions.

Effectiveness of soil remediation intervention in abandoned used lead acid battery (ULAB) recycling sites to reduce lead exposure among the children

Lead (Pb) is a neurotoxin, and children are vulnerable due to their evolving physiology and high-risk behaviours. Soil remediation interventions have proven effective in reducing Pb exposure. The primary objective is to measure the effectiveness of soil remediation at abandoned used lead acid battery (ULAB) recycling sites, nearby household cleaning, and community awareness in reducing blood lead levels (BLLs) in children. Additionally, this study aims to examine associations of Pb exposure with hematological, cardiovascular, renal, immunological, and endocrinological parameters in children aged 0–12 years. This study employs a quasi-experimental design, with abandoned ULAB sites as intervention sites and two control sites in Bangladesh. The intervention includes soil remediation coupled with community education. Data will be collected prior to the intervention and at a 12-month follow-up, including a comprehensive Pb exposure survey and collect environmental, turmeric samples, and blood from the child. Pb concentrations in environmental samples and turmeric samples will be determined using XRF analyser. Child BLL will be measured using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GF-AAS) and proposed biochemical parameters will be analysed using routine laboratory methods. This study could provide valuable insights for designing targeted interventions in similar settings and mitigating exposure to Pb.

Monitoring and Health Risk Assessment of Lead and Cadmium in Date Palm Fruit Cultivars Growing in Morocco.

The present study aimed to investigate the levels of two toxic trace elements (lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd)) in 84 date fruit samples of four varieties (Mejhoul, Bouittob, Aziza and Boufegouss) produced in four Moroccan areas, using graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry, and to assess their risk to the consumer health. Results showed that out of the total samples, Pb was detected in 39 date fruit samples (46.43%) in the range of 0.0001-0.118mg/kg, with an average level of 0.016 ± 0.0005mg/kg. For Cd levels, a total of 40 samples (47.62%) were found to be contaminated with Cd levels ranging from 0.0004 to 0.752mg/kg, with a mean value of 0.079 ± 0.003mg/kg. Cadmium levels exceeded the European maximum regulatory limit (MRL) of 0.020mg/kg in 17 date samples, which represents 20.24%. However, only one sample (1.19%) was above the MRL for Pb (0.10mg/kg) set by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC). The hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) values were found to be below 1. Furthermore, cancer risk (CR) levels exceeded the acceptable ranges. As a result, the non-carcinogenic risk assessments have concluded that consuming date fruits is safe and unlikely to harm harmful effects to the consumers. However, the date consumption may pose a significant lifetime carcinogenic risk to consumers from date-growing regions.

Arsenic, Cadmium, and Lead Levels in School Meals and Their Risk Assessment in Municipalities in Bahia, Brazil.

School meals represent a significant supply of nutrients for children in Brazil, especially those in conditions of social vulnerability. This study aimed to assess the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in meals served in public elementary schools in four municipalities in the state of Bahia, Brazil, and assess the risk posed to children's health. Ninety-six samples were collected from 16 schools, freeze-dried, and subjected to microwave-assisted digestion. The As, Cd, and Pb levels were determined by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The risk assessment was based on calculating each element's hazard quotient (HQ). None of the samples reached or exceeded the tolerable levels for the elements analyzed. Pb was the metal that obtained the most significant result, reaching maximum levels of 39-157 µg·kg-1. No element exceeded the PTWI proposed by JECFA; thus, the toxic metal content in school meals poses a negligible risk to children's health.