Heavy Metals Cd Research Articles

Adsorption of Pb(II) and Cd(II) by functionalized graphene oxide (GO-MBT): Mechanisms, antibacterial activity, and DFT studies

Contamination of natural water with heavy metals is an ongoing environmental challenge and warrants the advancement of purification technologies. The present research deals with the synthesis and fabrication of graphite from coconut shell and subsequently to graphene oxide (GO) and thiol-functionalized GO-MBT adsorbents for the removal of heavy metals from aqueous medium. The synthesized GO and GO-MBT were characterized by employing HR-TEM, XPS, EDX, FTIR, FE-SEM, TGA, AAS and XRD. The adsorption kinetics followed the pseudo-second-order model with regression coefficients close to 1(0.99) for both Pb(II) and Cd(II). Thiol-functionalized GO-MBT showed the adsorption capacity of GO-MBT for Pb(II) and Cd(II) with a value of 116.959 mg/g at pH 6 and 112.99 mg/g at pH 7 respectively. The GO-MBT exhibited impressive adsorption efficiency towards heavy metal ions Pb(II) and Cd(II) owing to the presence of high density of oxygen and sulfur-containing groups. DFT calculations provide valuable insights into the structural and energy properties of GO and GO-MBT, supporting their stability and reactivity. Besides, the antibacterial activities of developed adsorbents were determined using the agar well diffusion method and broth dilution method. The developed GO-MBT could be used as an effective adsorbent for the removal of Pb(II) and Cd(II) and bacterial species from contaminated water.

Analysis of The Heavy Metal Cd Content in Ricefield Eel from Rawa Taliwang Lake, West Sumbawa Regency

It is important to carry out research on heavy metal in fish body. The specific aims and targets of this research are: Want to know the metal content of Cadmium (Cd) in Ricefield eels (Monopterus albus) which comes from Rawa Taliwang Lake. The specific benefit is to protect consumers who consume fish from heavy metal contamination. The research was carried out at Rawa Taliwang Lake, namely in an area that is submerged in water. There are 2 research stations, namely in the eastern and western parts of the lake. Data collection method was carried out using traps (Bubu). Four Ricefield eel samples were taken at each station. Next, the rice eel samples were put into a plastic bag and then stored in a sample box. The research samples were then analyzed at the Mataram Uviversity analytical laboratory and at Environmental Laboratory of the Environmental and forestry services West Nusa Tenggara Province. The data analysis method is carried out by taking the tissues from the Ricefield eel muscles, and then analyzed for Cd heavy metal content by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Measurement of heavy metals in Ricefield eel tissue was carried out by adding concentrated HNO3 and HClO4 , heated at a temperature of 60-70ºC for 2-3 hours until the solution was clear. Samples are ready to be measured with AAS using an air-acetylene flame. The conclusion of this research is that the content of Cd heavy metal in Ricefield Eels (Monopterus albus) originating from Rawa Taliwang Lake ranges from 2.55 - 4.01 mg/kg (ppm).

Construction of hyperbranched imprinted nanomaterials for selective adsorption of cadmium (II).

A hyperbranched ion-imprinted polymer (IIP) material containing multiple selective adsorption sites was synthesized using halloysite nanotubes, methyl acrylate, and ethylenediamine in the presence of a template ion [i.e. Cd (II) heavy metal]. The successful preparation of the Cd-IIP composition was confirmed by FT-IR, XRD, TEM, TGA, and elemental analysis. The polymers exhibited good adsorption of Cd (II) with a maximum adsorption capacity of 64.37 mg·g-1. The imprinting factor (α) for Cd (II) was 2.62 and the selection factor (β) was 1.78, indicating a specific adsorption of Cd (II) ion. The selection coefficients of Cd-IIP for Cd (II)/Pb (II), Cd (II)/Cu (II), Cd (II)/Ni (II), Cd (II)/Cr (III), and Cd (II)/Na (I) also indicated an excellent selectivity of the hyperbranched polymers for Cd (II) in the presence of competitive ions. The removal efficiency remained more than 75% after five cycles of desorption/adsorption. We envision that the HNTs based Cd-IIP has promising applications in the removal of Cd (II) from wastewater.

Transcriptomic and physiological analyses of Symphytum officinale L. in response to multiple heavy metal stress

Soil heavy metal contamination has become a global environmental issue, which threaten soil quality, food security and human health. Symphytum officinale L. have exhibited high tolerance and restoration capacity to heavy metals (HMs) stress. However, little is known about the mechanisms of HMs in S. officinale. In this study, transcriptomic and physiological changes of S. officinale response to different HMs (Pb, Cd and Zn) were analyzed and investigated the key genes and pathways involved in HMs uptake patterns. The results showed that phenotypic effects are not significant, and antioxidant enzyme activities were all upregulated. Transcriptome analysis indicated that 1247 differential genes were up-regulated, and 1963 differential genes were down-regulated under Cd stress, while 3752 differential genes were up-regulated, and 7197 differential genes were down-regulated under Pb stress; and 527 differential genes were up-regulated; and 722 differential genes were down-regulated under Zn stress. Based on their expression, we preliminarily speculate that different HMs resistance of S. officinale may be regulated by the differential expression of key genes. These results provide a theoretical basis for determining the exact expression of genes in plants under different heavy metal stress, the processes involved molecular pathways, and how they can be efficiently utilized to improve plant tolerance to toxic metals and improve phytoremediation efficiency.

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

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

Impact of recurring irrigation with treated domestic wastewater on heavy metal accumulation in the soil

Water reuse for irrigation is a common practice globally, serving as an alternative to clean water. Wastewater contains traces of heavy metals that accumulate in the soil and food chain, posing an environmental and public risk. This study investigated the effect of irrigation with treated domestic wastewater (TDW) emanating from a homogenous community on heavy metal accumulation in the soil irrigated for three recurring farming cycles, namely R1, R2, and R3. A greenhouse experiment was conducted involving plots irrigated with TDW (PTw) and plots irrigated with fresh water (PFw) in triplicate. Soil samples were collected at depths of 0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 cm. Results revealed that heavy metals Pb, Cu, Cr, Zn, Cd, and Ni remained within the WHO permissible limits in the PTw and PFw, except Cd at 40–60 cm after the R3 in the TPw. Irrigation with TDW caused a decrease in Pb and Cd with respect to the baseline levels by 86–91% and 88–96% respectively. Other heavy metals increased in the soil in the order of Cr>Cu>Ni>Zn at 0–20 cm, Cr>Cu>Zn>Ni at 20–40 cm, and Cr>Cu>Ni>Zn at 40–60 cm. Variations in heavy metal concentrations were inconsistent with farming cycles except for Cu, which increased in the order of 3.2±0.75, 4.4±0.66, and 4.8±1.23 mg/kg at 0–20 cm for R1, R2, and R3, respectively, and 3.4±0.66, 3.7±0.62, and 6.0±0.44 mg/kg at 20–40 cm in the same order. Pollution index values revealed that irrigation with TDW for three recurring farming cycles caused slight soil contamination (1≤PI<2) with Zn and Ni, moderate soil contamination (2≤PI<3) with Cu, and high soil contamination (3<PI) with Cr at depths of 0–20 and 40–60 cm. The pollution load index indicated moderate soil pollution (1<PLI≤2) with heavy metals after the R3 at 40–60 cm. The findings suggest that irrigation with TDW proceed for at least three recurring farming cycles without causing significant soil heavy metal accumulation.

Trophodynamics and health risk assessment of heavy metals in seafood from a tropical estuary in the gulf of Guinea

Seafood is an essential protein source for coastal communities. However, they can accumulate heavy metals from human activities which could pose a potential health risk to consumers. In this study, we investigated the distribution, bioaccumulation, trophic transfer and potential human health risk of heavy metals in sediments, shell and fin fish collected from the Escravos Estuary in southern Nigeria. Heavy metals (Ni, Cd, V, Pb and Cu) in sediments, periwinkles and tongue soles from the two study sites were lower than the permissible limits for fishery products. The metal distribution in fish tissues was in the decreasing order of liver > gills > muscles > gonads > rest of the fish. Moderate to high BSAF (>1) was reported for Cd, Pb and Cu. All the studied metals, except Pb, showed evidence of biomagnification from periwinkle to tongue sole. The estimated daily intake (EDI) and hazard ratio (HR) for metals in periwinkles from both study sites were lower or within the USEPA reference doses (RfD) for the respective daily intake and HR value < 1, except for Cd, V and Pb for children. In contrast, EDI values in the muscle of tongue soles were higher than the RfD values for heavy metals except for Ni and Pb, whereas HR values > 1 except for Ni, Cd and V. In the whole fish, EDI and HR values were disproportionately high in both study sites with higher values reported for children. This study provides the first insights on the trophic transfer and risk assessment of heavy metals from petroleum and gas operations impacting the Escravos Estuary and the implications to public health.

Health and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in water and sediments within a data scarce urban catchment in Tanzania – A case of Ngerengere River, Morogoro Municipality

Low-, middle- and high-income countries, exhibit indications of risks associated with water quality. The study investigated heavy metal concentrations in surface water and sediments within the Ngerengere River and its tributaries (Kikundi, Bigwa, and Morogoro) drain within in the Morogoro Municipality of Tanzania, an Urban Catchment Area (UCA) with limited available data mainly because of inadequate monitoring and reporting capabilities. Analysis of health and ecological risks associated with heavy metal pollution was also carried out using health risk assessments models, pollution indices, and multivariate analysis techniques. Between the dry and wet seasons of 2023, water and sediment samples from (13) sampling stations strategically established along the Ngerengere river and its tributaries were analyzed for six heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Ni, Cd, Cu and Zn) using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer Model Perking Elmer 850 Graphite Furnace and Perking Elmer AS 800 Auto-sampler coupled with a computer interface for operational, displaying and reading the results. The calculated degree of water contamination (Cd) values in river water in both dry and wet seasons ranged from 0 to 6.803 indicating low and high degrees of contamination respectively. Heavy metal concentration in sediment decreases in the order of Zn&gt;Ni&gt;Cr&gt;Cu&gt;Cd&gt;Pb. The non-cancer risk index (HI) via ingestion and dermal pathways in dry and wet seasons for both children and adult groups was &lt;1 hence no non-cancer risk, However, cumulative dermal and ingestion exposure in both children and adults indicated potential cancer risk in dry and wet season. The analysis of ecological risks associated with heavy metal enrichment in the sediment indicated high enrichment of sediments with Cd, Ni and Zn. Conclusively, in wet months, risk indices tend to be low, while in dry months, they typically remain high.

Electrochemical Detection of Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+ and Hg2+ with Sensors Based on Carbonaceous Nanomaterials and Fe3O4 Nanoparticles.

Two electrochemical sensors were developed in this study, with their preparations using two nanomaterials with remarkable properties, namely, carbon nanofibers (CNF) modified with Fe3O4 nanoparticles and multilayer carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) modified with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. The modified screen-printed electrodes (SPE) were thus named SPE/Fe3O4-CNF and SPE/Fe3O4-MWCNT and were used for the simultaneous detection of heavy metals (Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+ and Hg2+). The sensors have been spectrometrically and electrochemically characterized. The limits of detection of the SPE/Fe3O4-CNF sensor were 0.0615 μM, 0.0154 μM, 0.0320 μM and 0.0148 μM for Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+ and Hg2+, respectively, and 0.2719 μM, 0.3187 μM, 1.0436 μM and 0.9076 μM in the case of the SPE/ Fe3O4-MWCNT sensor (following optimization of the working parameters). Due to the modifying material, the results showed superior performance for the SPE/Fe3O4-CNF sensor, with extended linearity ranges and detection limits in the nanomolar range, compared to those of the SPE/Fe3O4-MWCNT sensor. For the quantification of heavy metal ions Cd2+, Pb2+, Cu2+ and Hg2+ with the SPE/Fe3O4-CNF sensor from real samples, the standard addition method was used because the values obtained for the recovery tests were good. The analysis of surface water samples from the Danube River has shown that the obtained values are significantly lower than the maximum limits allowed according to the quality standards specified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and those of the World Health Organization (WHO). This research provides a complementary method based on electrochemical sensors for in situ monitoring of surface water quality, representing a useful tool in environmental studies.

Assessment of bioremediation potential of Calotropis procera and Nerium oleander for sustainable management of vehicular released metals in roadside soils

Land transportation is a major source of heavy metal contamination along the roadside, posing significant risks to human health through inhalation, oral ingestion, and dermal contact. Therefore, this study has been designed to determine the concentrations of vehicular released heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cu) in roadside soil and leaves of two commonly growing native plant species (Calotropis procera and Nerium oleander).Two busy roads i.e., Lahore-Okara road (N-5) and Okara-Faisalabad roads (OFR) in Punjab, Pakistan, were selected for the study. The data were collected from five sites along each road during four seasons. Control samples were collected ~ 50 m away from road. The metal content i.e. lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu) were determined in the plant leaves and soil by using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Significantly high amount of all studied heavy metals were observed in soil and plant leaves along both roads in contrast to control ones. The mean concentration of metals in soil ranged as Cd (2.20–6.83 mg/kg), Pb (4.53–15.29 mg/kg), Ni (29.78–101.26 mg/kg), and Cu (61.68–138.46 mg/kg) and in plant leaves Cd (0.093–0.53 mg/kg), Pb (4.31–16.34 mg/kg), Ni (4.13–16.34 mg/kg) and Cu (2.98–32.74 mg/kg). Among roads, higher metal contamination was noted along N-5 road. Significant temporal variations were also noted in metal contamination along both roads. The order of metal contamination in soil and plant leaves in different seasons was summer > autumn > spring > winter. Furthermore, the metal accumulation potential of Calotropis procera was higher than that of Nerium oleander. Therefore, for sustainable management of metal contamination, the plantation of Calotropis procera is recommended along roadsides.

Spatial distribution characteristics and pollution evaluation of soil heavy metals in Wulongdong National Forest Park

To scrutinize the spatial distribution attributes of soil heavy metal content and discern its pollution status within the expanse of Wulongdong National Forest Park, a meticulous investigation is imperative. Three altitude gradients of 900, 1000, and 1069 m were selected on the shady and sunny slopes of Wulongdong National Forest Park, and a total of 300 soil sample points were collected. Soil samples were collected in layers, and the contents of seven soil heavy metal elements, Cr, Cd, Hg, Ni, Se, As, and Pb, were measured. With regard to the national soil element background values, the single factor index method, Nemerow index method, and pollution load index were employed to undertake a thorough assessment of soil heavy metal pollution. (1) The contents of heavy metal elements Cr, Se, As, and Pb in the 0–20 cm soil layer of Wulongdong National Forest Park are lower than the national soil element background value and the Henan soil element background value; the Cd and Hg contents exceed the national soil element background value. The value and Henan soil element background value are 2.2 times and 2.92 times the national soil element background value, and 2.75 times and 9.5 times the Henan soil element background value respectively; Ni content is lower than the Henan soil element background value, but higher than the national soil element background value. The background value is 1.03 times its content. The coefficients of variation of the contents of seven heavy metal elements are all greater than 50%, among which Hg shows extreme variation, and the remaining six are highly variable. (2) In the same soil layer, the Cr and As contents are lower on sunny slopes than on shady slopes, and the contents of Pb, Ni, and Hg are generally higher on sunny slopes than on shady slopes. On sunny slopes, the contents of As, Cd, and Hg decrease with increasing altitude, and the Se content increases with increasing altitude; while on shady slopes, the contents of Cr, Se, and As decrease with increasing altitude, and Pb and Hg content increase with the increase of altitude; the content of heavy metal element As increases with the deepening of the soil layer on shady slopes, and the Hg content decreases with the deepening of the soil layer on sunny slopes. The contents of other heavy metal elements have no obvious regularity among different slope directions, altitudes and soil layers. (3) The single factor index evaluation results show that in the 0 ~ 20c soil layer and on the sunny slope, Hg is heavily polluted, Cd is moderately polluted, Ni is lightly polluted, and Cr, Se, As, and Pb are all non-polluted; On the shady slope, Cd and Hg are moderately polluted, and the other five heavy metal elements are in a non-polluting state. (4) The Nemerow index method evaluation results show that in the 0 ~ 20 cm soil layer, the soil on sunny slopes is significantly more polluted by heavy metals than on shady slopes, and the main pollutants are Ni, Cd and Hg. (5) In the 0 ~ 20 cm soil layer of Wulongdong National Forest Park, the three heavy metal elements Ni, Cd and Hg have reached pollution levels, of which Ni is slightly polluted, Cd and Hg are moderately or above polluted; the sunny slope soil is slightly polluted. Heavy metal pollution, no heavy metal pollution on shady slopes.

Analysis of heavy metals in barley dust and health risk assessment in Malt Factory, Ethiopia

ABSTRACT The recent rapid industrialisation in Ethiopia has become a critical concern from pollution of the environment, including contamination by heavy metals. The purpose of this study was to determine heavy metals in barley dust and evaluate the health risks associated with workers in Gondar Malt Factory, Ethiopia. For this, the concentrations of some potentially toxic heavy metals (Cu, Ni, Cd, Cr, Pb, Zn and Fe) were determined in samples from four different production lines (barley receiving, aspiration, grading, and final product dispatch lines). Prior to metal analysis by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, a 1 g barley dust was subjected to an optimised wet digestion procedure using 8 mL HNO3, 4 mL HClO4 heated for 4 h at 250°C. The average concentration (mg/kg) of the metals was found to be in the range of 3.3‒4.8 Cu, 4.7‒9 Cd, 9.5‒11.5 Pb, 3063‒3463 Fe, 17.7‒24.7 Ni and 148‒180 Zn. Chromium was below the detection limit of the method in all the samples. The results showed that the barley dust contained significant concentration of the heavy metals. However, the study has found the absence of non-carcinogenic risk, from the analysed heavy metals in the barley dust, through both dermal contact and inhalation routes of exposure. Similarly, no carcinogenic risk was associated with the analysed heavy metals in the barley dust, except for Pb. Hence, proper management control system needs to be implemented to minimise chronic health risks from exposure to Pb.

Constructing ZnTe Spherical Quantum Well for Efficient Light Emission.

ZnTe colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals (NCs) have shown promise for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and displays, because they are free from toxic heavy metals (Cd). However, so far, their low photoluminescence (PL) efficiency (∼30%) has hindered their applications. Herein, we devised a novel structure of ZnTe NCs with the configuration of ZnSe (core)/ZnTe (spherical quantum well, SQW)/ZnSe (shell). The inner layer ZnTe was grown at the surface of ZnSe core with avoiding using highly active and high-risk Zn sources. Due to the formation of coherently strained heterostructure which reduced the lattice mismatch, and the thermodynamic growth of ZnTe, the surface or interface defects were suppressed. A high PL efficiency of >60% was obtained for the green light-emitting ZnSe/ZnTe/ZnSe SQWs after ZnS outer layer passivation, which is the highest value for colloidal ZnTe-based NCs. This work paves the way for the development of novel semiconductor NCs for luminescent and display applications.

Geospatial evaluation and bio-remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soils in arid zones

Introduction: Soil pollution directly impacts food quality and the lives of both humans and animals. The concentration of heavy metals in Egypt’s drain-side soils is rising, which is detrimental to the quality of the soil and crops. The key to reducing the detrimental effects on the ecosystem is having accurate maps of the spatial distribution of heavy metals and the subsequent use of environmentally sustainable remediation approaches. The objective of this work is to assess soil contamination utilizing spatial mapping of heavy metals, determine contamination levels using Principal Component Analysis (PCA), and calculate both the contamination severity and the potential for bioremediation in the soils surrounding the main drain of Bahr El-Baqar. Furthermore, evaluating the capacity of microorganisms (bacteria, fungi, and “Actinomycetes) to degrade heavy elements in the soil.Methodology: 146 soil sample locations were randomly selected near the Bahr El-Baqar drain to examine the degree of soil pollution Ordinary Kriging (OK), method was used to map and analyze the spatial distribution of soil contamination by seven heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Zn, Cd, Pb, As, and Ni). Modified contamination degree (mCd) and PCA were used to assess the research area’s soil pollution levels. The process involved isolating, identifying, and classifying the microorganisms present in the soil of the study area. The study findings showed that variography suggested the Stable model effectively matched pH, SOM, and Cd values. Furthermore, the exponential model proved suitable for predicting Fe, Pb and Ni, while the spherical model was appropriate for Ni, Cr, and Zn.Results: The study revealed three levels of contamination, with an extremely high degree (EHDC) affecting approximately 97.49% of the area. The EHDC exhibited average concentrations of heavy metals: 79.23 ± 17.81 for Cr, 20,014.08 ± 4545.91 for Fe, 201.31 ± 112.97 for Zn, 1.33 ± 1.37 for Cd, 40.96 ± 26.36 for Pb, 211.47 ± 13.96 for As, and 46.15 ± 9.72 for Ni. Isolation and identification of microorganisms showed a significant influence on the breakdown of both organic and inorganic pollutants in the environment. The study demonstrated exceptionally high removal efficiency for As and Cr, with a removal efficiency reached 100%, achieved by Rhizopus oryzae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Bacillus thuringiensis.Conclusion: This study has designated management zones for soil contamination by mapping soil pollutants, geo-identified them, and found potential microorganisms that could significantly reduce soil pollution levels.

Establishment and characterization of a golden pompano (Trachinotus blochii) fin cell line for applications in marine fish pathogen immunology

Pompano fishes have been widely farmed worldwide. As a representative commercial marine species of the Carangidae family, the golden pompano (Trachinotus blochii) has gained significant popularity in China and worldwide. However, because of rapid growth and high-density aquaculture, the golden pompano has become seriously threatened by various diseases. Cell lines are the most cost-effective resource for in vitro studies and are widely used for physiological and pathological research owing to their accessibility and convenience. In this study, we established a novel immortal cell line, GPF (Golden pompano fin cells). GPF has been passaged over 69 generations for 10 months. The morphology, adhesion and extension processes of GPF were evaluated using light and electron microscopy. GPF cells were passaged every 3 days with L-15 containing 20 % fetal bovine serum (FBS) at 1:3. The optimum conditions for GPF growth were 28 °C and a 20 % FBS concentration. DNA sequencing of 18S rRNA and mitochondrial 16S rRNA confirmed that GPF was derived from the golden pompano. Chromosomal analysis revealed that the number pattern of GPF was 48 chromosomes. Transfection experiments demonstrated that GPF could be utilized to express foreign genes. Furthermore, heavy metals (Cd, Cu, and Fe) exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against GPF. After polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) treatment, transcription of the retinoic acid-inducible gene I-like receptor (RLR) pathway genes, including mda5, mita, tbk1, irf3, and irf7 increased, inducing the expression of interferon (IFN) and anti-viral proteins in GPF cells. In addition, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation up-regulated the expression of inflammation-related factors, including myd88, irak1, nfκb, il1β, il6, and cxcl10 expression. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study on the immune response signaling pathways of the golden pompano using an established fin cell line. In this study, we describe a preliminary investigation of the GPF cell line immune response to poly I:C and LPS, and provide a more rapid and efficient experimental material for research on marine fish immunology.

Embryo growth alteration and oxidative stress responses in germinating Cucurbita pepo seeds exposed to cadmium and copper toxicity

This study investigated the influence of cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) heavy metals on germination, metabolism, and growth of zucchini seedlings (Cucurbita pepo L.). Zucchini seeds were subjected to two concentrations (100 and 200 μM) of CdCl2 and CuCl2. Germination parameters, biochemical and phytochemical attributes of embryonic axes were assessed. Results revealed that germination rate remained unaffected by heavy metals (Cd, Cu). However, seed vigor index (SVI) notably decreased under Cd and Cu exposure. Embryonic axis length and dry weight exhibited significant reductions, with variations depending on the type of metal used. Malondialdehyde and H2O2 content, as well as catalase activity, did not show a significant increase at the tested Cd and Cu concentrations. Superoxide dismutase activity decreased in embryonic axis tissues. Glutathione S-transferase activity significantly rose with 200 μM CdCl2, while glutathione content declined with increasing Cd and Cu concentrations. Total phenol content and antioxidant activity increased at 200 μM CuCl2. In conclusion, Cd and Cu heavy metals impede zucchini seed germination efficiency and trigger metabolic shifts in embryonic tissue cells. Response to metal stress is metal-specific and concentration-dependent. These findings contribute to understanding the intricate interactions between heavy metals and plant physiology, aiding strategies for mitigating their detrimental effects on plants.

Effect of bioremediation or organic treatments of soil contaminated with some heavy metals on the biological and L- glutaminase activity

For the purpose of identify the ability of bioremediation or organic treatments of soil to reduce the harmful effect of heavy metals including Zn, pb and cd on the biological activity such as soil respiration, the total number of fungi and the activity of the L-glutaminase enzyme have been studied. A laboratory incubation experiment was applied in the Soil Microbiology Laboratory in the Department of Soil Sciences and Water Resources in the College of Agriculture– Basrah University. The soil of the surface layer (0-30 cm) from Qurna district, north of Basrah province was contaminated with the critical levels of the heavy metals cd, Pb, Zn and were placed in an incubator at 30°C for 14 days. The biological and organic treatments process was applied by inoculating soil contaminated with Aspergillus niger or humic acid (40 L ha-1) or sterilized cow manure (4%), incubated at 25°C for 30 days, then some biological parameters were estimated at the periods of 10, 20 and 30 days. Results have been showed that an inhibitory effect of the studied heavy metals on the biological parameters, and the Cd has been recorded the highest percentage of inhibition of total number of fungi (30.67%), the amount of CO2 released (13.93%) and the activity of the L-glutaminase enzyme (45.33%) compared to the control treatment. The ability of the treatments materials to remove heavy metals were (89.02%) for A. niger compared to humic acid (63.48%) and cow manure (48.71%). It was reflected in an increase in the number of fungi, which recorded 152, 167.75, 174.5 cfu g-1 when treated with A. niger, cow manure and humic acid, respectively compared to the control treatment which was (65.92 cfu g-1). The biological and organic treatments also increased the level of liberated CO2 from the polluted soil to 268.62, 253.86, 303.59 mg CO2 g-1, respectively compared to the control treatment. The activity of the L-glutaminase enzyme has increased due to application of treatments. It was 57.02, 48.97, 70.41 µg NH4+ g-1 2hr.-1 for inoculated with A. niger or treated with cow manure and humic acid, respectively, while the control treatment was 37.19 µg NH4+ g-12hr.-1.

Occurrence, distribution, and ecological risk assessment of heavy metals in Chao Phraya River, Thailand

Understanding heavy metals in rivers is crucial, as their presence and distribution impact water quality, ecosystem health, and human well-being. This study examined the presence and levels of nine heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in 16 surface water samples along the Chao Phraya River, identifying Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cr as predominant metals. Although average concentrations in both rainy and dry seasons generally adhered to WHO guidelines, Mn exceeded these limits yet remained within Thailand’s acceptable standards. Seasonal variations were observed in the Chao Phraya River, and Spearman’s correlation coefficient analysis established significant associations between season and concentrations of heavy metals. The water quality index (WQI) demonstrated varied water quality statuses at each sampling point along the Chao Phraya River, indicating poor conditions during the rainy season, further deteriorating to very poor conditions in the dry season. The hazard potential index (HPI) was employed to assess heavy metal contamination, revealing that during the dry season in the estuary area, the HPI value exceeded the critical threshold index, indicating the presence of heavy metal pollution in the water and unsuitable for consumption. Using the species sensitivity distribution model, an ecological risk assessment ranked the heavy metals’ HC5 values as Pb > Zn > Cr > Cu > Hg > Cd > Ni, identifying nickel as the most detrimental and lead as the least toxic. Despite Cr and Zn showing a moderate risk, and Cu and Ni posing a high risk to aquatic organisms, the main contributors to ecological risk were identified as Cu, Ni, and Zn, suggesting a significant potential ecological risk in the Chao Phraya River’s surface water. The results of this study provide fundamental insights that can direct future actions in preventing and managing heavy metal pollution in the river ecosystem.

DNA damage in inhabitants exposed to heavy metals near Hudiara drain, Lahore, Pakistan

The current study was conducted on the inhabitants living in the area adjacent to the Hudiara drain using bore water and vegetables adjacent to the Hudiara drain. Toxic heavy metals badly affect human health because of industrial environmental contamination. Particularly hundreds of millions of individuals globally have faced the consequences of consuming water and food tainted with pollutants. Concentrations of heavy metals in human blood were elevated in Hudiara drainings in Lahore city, Pakistan, due to highly polluted industrial effluents. The study determined the health effects of high levels of heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Zn, Fe, Pb, Ni, Hg, Cr) on residents of the Hudiara draining area, including serum MDA, 8-Isoprostane, 8-hydroxyguanosine, and creatinine levels. An absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine heavy metals in wate water, drinking water, soil, plants and human beings blood sampleas and ELISA kits were used to assess the level of 8-hydroxyguanosine, MDA, 8-Isoprostane in plasma serum creatinine level. Waste water samples, irrigation water samples, drinking water samples, Soil samples, Plants samples and blood specimens of adult of different weights and ages were collected from the polluted area of the Hudiara drain (Laloo and Mohanwal), and control samples were obtained from the unpolluted site Sheiikhpura, 60 km away from the site. Toxic heavy metals in blood damage the cell membrane and DNA structures, increasing the 8-hydroxyguanosine, MDA, creatinine, and 8-Isoprostane. Toxic metals contaminated bore water and vegetables, resulting in increased levels of creatinine, MDA, Isoprostane, and 8-hydroxy-2-guanosine in the blood of inhabitants from the adjacent area Hudiara drain compared to the control group. In addition,. This study also investigated heavy metal concentrations in meat and milk samples from buffaloes, cows, and goats. In meat, cow samples showed the highest Cd, Cu, Fe and Mn concentrations. In milk also, cows exhibited elevated Cu and Fe levels compared to goats. The results highlight species-specific variations in heavy metal accumulation, emphasizing the need for targeted monitoring to address potential health risks. The significant difference between the two groups i.e., the control group and the affected group, in all traits of the respondents (weight, age, heavy metal values MDA, 8-Isoprostane, 8-hydroxyguaniosine, and serum creatinine level). Pearson’s correlation coefficient was calculated. The study has shown that the level of serum MDA, 8-Isoprostane, 8-hydroxyguaniosine, or creatinine has not significantly correlated with age, so it is independent of age. This study has proved that in Pakistan, the selected area of Lahore in the villages of Laloo and Mohanwal, excess of heavy metals in the human body damages the DNA and increases the level of 8-Isoprostane, MDA, creatinine, and 8-hydroxyguaniosine. As a result, National and international cooperation must take major steps to control exposure to heavy metals.

Particle-size correlation and prediction models of atmospheric heavy metals

The infinitely variable size of atmospheric particulate matter raises a huge challenge for accurately assessing the health risks of pollutants of different particle sizes. Currently, the majority of studies have concentrated on PM2.5-bound heavy metals (PM2.5-HMs) and their associated health risks, greatly ignoring the risks caused by heavy metals in other particle sizes such as PM10 and total suspended particulate (TSP). In this study, Pearson correlation analysis was used for the first time to explore the concentration correlation of 10 heavy metals (HMs) (Cd, Cr, As, Pb, Zn, Cu, V, Mn, Ni, Co) in PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and TSP, utilizing 91876 PM samples from China from 2000 to 2022. The results of the Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the correlation coefficients between PM2.5-HM and PM10-HM, PM10-HM and TSP-HM, and PM2.5-HM and TSP-HM were all above 0.82, with statistical significance (P < 0.001). Due to the sample size limitation of PM1-HM (n < 15), the Pearson correlation coefficients of PM1-HM with other particle-size HM may not be robust enough. Then generalized linear models (GLM) and generalized additive models (GAM) were used to exclude the interference of covariates (sampling time and sampling city), and 16 univariate inter-prediction models which are not affected by temporal and spatial factors for PM2.5, PM10, and TSP binding HM concentration were further constructed. The regression diagnostics of these prediction models indicate normally distributed data and strong linear trends, and the influential points in the modeled data were all within acceptable limits (n ≤ 1). The R2s of the prediction models were almost greater than 0.8, indicating that the prediction models were effective and robust. This study reveals for the first time the particle-size correlation of PM2.5-HM, PM10-HM, and TSP-HM, offering a novel approach for the prediction of heavy metal concentration and health risk assessment of atmospheric particle-size fractionated heavy metal.