Heavy Metal Concentrations Research Articles

Differential effects of urbanization-induced heavy metal pollution on soil microbial communities under evergreen and deciduous trees

Urbanization has significantly increased heavy metal contamination in urban soils, adversely affecting soil microorganisms, which are vital indicators of soil quality. However, the effects of urbanization-induced metal pollution on soil microbial communities remains largely underestimated. This study examines soil microbial communities and properties beneath the canopy of three deciduous and three evergreen trees in urban parks, situated at varying distances from the city center. The results demonstrated that urbanization consistently alters soil physicochemical properties, including pH, soil moisture, and specific heavy metal contents (e.g., Zn, Mn, Cr). The α-diversity of soil bacterial community was significantly influenced by pH and specific heavy metals (e.g., Cr, Cd), whereas the α-diversity of fungal community was affected by pH, independent of heavy metal concentrations. The response of heavy metal content to urbanization exhibited a consistent pattern across both deciduous and evergreen trees, although the effect differed between these tree types. Furthermore, urbanization impacts the diversity, structure, composition and network of soil microbial communities. Notably, the Shannon index of soil fungal communities under deciduous species shows an initial increase, followed by a decline as urbanization intensifies. In contrast, the Simpson index of soil bacteria under evergreen tree species decreases with increased urbanization. Moreover, urbanization alters soil bacterial networks, with higher network density observed in less urbanized areas. It may also affect microbial functions, such as xenobiotic and lipid metabolism. This study provided a theoretical basis for urban park soil management, which is crucial for enhancing urban soil ecosystem services and mitigating the adverse effects of urbanization.

Analysis and Detection of Heavy Metals Content in Some Selected Packaged Fruit Juices of Kathmandu City by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy

The determination of level of heavy metals in packaged fruit juices is crucial, as extended exposure to even small quantities of these toxic element can cause severe health issues and chronic poisoning. Hence, it is essential to gather comprehensive data on the presence of heavy metals in packaged fruit juice samples. The objective of this research work is to determine heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb) in four different types of packaged fruit juice samples viz Apple, Mango, Orange and Lychee of four different popular brands bought from retail market of Kathmandu city by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy and compare with acceptable limit set by WHO/FAO. Wet acid digestion method was used for digestion process of packaged fruit juice samples. The concentration of Iron were ranged from 0.572-0.762mg/L in Orange juices; 0.362-0.624mg/L in Mango juices; 0.277-3.649mg/L in Apple juices; 0.279-1.770mg/L in Lychee juices respectively. Copper concentration were ranged from not detected (ND)-0.574mg/L in Orange juices; ND for all selected samples in Mango juices; ND- 0.023mg/L in Apple juices; ND-0.041mg/L in Lyclee juices. Similarly Zinc concentration were ranged from 0.0511-0.2026mg/L in Orange juices; ND-0.0700mg/L in Mango juices; ND for all selected samples in Apple juices; ND-0.0287mg/L in Lychee juices. The concentration of hazardous element Lead was found below detection limit in all selected packaged fruit juice samples. The heavy metals concentration in selected brand of packaged fruit juice samples was in following order: Fe>Zn>Cu> Pb. Int. J. Appl. Sci. Biotechnol. Vol 12(3): 158-165.

Antibiotic resistance and pathogen spreading in a wastewater treatment plant designed for wastewater reuse

Climate change significantly contributes to water scarcity in various regions worldwide. While wastewater reuse is a crucial strategy for mitigating water scarcity, it also carries potential risks for human health due to the presence of pathogenic and antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB). Antibiotic resistance represents a Public Health concern and, according to the global action plan on antimicrobial resistance, wastewater role in selecting and spreading ARB must be monitored.Our aim was to assess the occurrence of ARB, antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and potential pathogenic bacteria throughout a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) designed for water reuse. Furthermore, we aimed to evaluate potential association between ARB and ARGs with antibiotics and heavy metals.The results obtained revealed the presence of ARB, ARGs and pathogenic bacteria at every stage of the WWTP. Notably, the most prevalent ARB and ARG were sulfamethoxazole-resistant bacteria (up to 7.20 log CFU mL−1) and sulII gene (up to 5.91 log gene copies mL−1), respectively. The dominant pathogenic bacteria included Arcobacter, Flavobacterium and Aeromonas. Although the abundance of these elements significantly decreased during treatment (influent vs. effluent, p < 0.05), they were still present in the effluent designated for reuse. Additionally, significant correlations were observed between heavy metal concentrations (copper, nickel and selenium) and antibiotic resistance elements (ampicillin-resistant bacteria, tetracycline-resistant bacteria, ARB total abundance and sulII) (p < 0.05).These results underscore the importance of monitoring the role of WWTP in spreading antibiotic resistance, in line with the One Health approach. Additionally, our findings suggest the need of interventions to reduce human health risks associated with the reuse of wastewater for agricultural purposes.

The Effects of PON1 (Q192R, rs662) Gene Polymorphism, Heavy metals and Oxidative Stress on Risk of Recurrent Spontaneous Abortion in Samples of Iraqi Women

Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as the occurrence of two or more spontaneous pregnancy losses before reaching the midpoint of gestation. Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of RSA, serving as a key factor in its underlying causes. This research aims to investigate the connection between the Q192R polymorphisms identified in the PON1 gene, responsible for encoding an antioxidant enzyme and the vulnerability to RSA. Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is a critical enzyme in the body's antioxidant defence system, safeguarding cells against damage caused by reactive oxygen species and heavy metal concentrations that affect pregnancy. The most prevalent PON1 polymorphism is Q192R (rs662), known to influence the antioxidant activity and power of the PON1 enzyme. In this research, blood samples were collected from two groups: 50 women with RSA and 50 women who were apparently in good health. Following DNA extraction, high-resolution melting (HRM) analysis was used to identify the studied SNP; Elisa was used to determine DNA damage and MDA concentrations in serum and heavy metals were determined by a Graphite Furnace-Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (GFAAS). The results of this study showed significantly higher levels of 8-OHdG, MDA, arsenic and lead in serum in RSA patients than in apparently healthy women. The genotype findings indicated that the prevalence of the QR (AG) genotype in women experiencing recurrent spontaneous abortion was notably greater than that in seemingly healthy women (74% compared to 16%, respectively, with an odds ratio of 27.2). The values of allele frequency for the A allele were 0.76 and 0.51 for apparently healthy women and women with recurrent spontaneous abortion respectively. The G allele frequency was 0.24 and 0.49 for apparently healthy women and women with recurrent spontaneous abortion respectively. The heterozygous QR genotype is related to the risk of RSA and the minor allele (G allele) is increased in women with RSA.

The effect of Hookah Smoking on Levels of Lipid Profiles and Some Heavy Metal Concentrations

The current study aimed to identify the effect of hookah smoking on the health of smokers of this type of smoking, as this phenomenon has spread widely in the recent period among all segments of society, especially among young men and women. Samples for the current study were collected from people who used this type of smoking from the month of December. 2023 until February 2024, with 95 samples⸲, where some physiological variables were measured, which included (blood pressure, lipid profile and heavy metals ) and it was compared with (30) blood samples collected from healthy people and non-smokers. As a control group. The results of the current study showed clear variations in the numbers, values, and concentrations of these variables studied under the current study. ⸲ Blood pressure among those who smoked this type of smoking increased by (52.63%). In terms of lipid profile, most of them showed an increase in their levels in the serum of these smokers, and also according to the type of flavor and the number of flavors. The highest increase in the level of total cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum of these smokers was (209.75) and (250.50), and in the mixed flavor, as for the number of flavors, it was Their highest levels were (241) and (290), respectively, when the number of traces was (more than 7) traces in the serum of hookah smokers. While the level of low-density lipoproteins showed its highest level of (119.95) in the serum of people smoking the mixed flavor in When it reached its highest level, it was (140) and in the serum of people who had a number of ages (more than 7) ⸲ while the level of very low-density lipoproteins showed its highest level, which was (51.70), in the serum of people who smoked the flavor of the mixture, while it reached its highest level. It is (62) and in the serum of people who have a number of ages (more than 7). While concentrations of lead and cadmium showed a bioaccumulation in the blood serum of these people who smoked hookah compared to the control group.provide insights into how effective each model is in identifying vulnerabilities.

Assessment of heavy metal contamination in the groundwater of Gujarat, India using the Heavy Metal Pollution Index

Groundwater serves as a vital water source for a significant population in the Gujarat region of India. However, substantial contamination from heavy metals, pose a serious threat to human health through various pathways, including drinking water. The rapid industrial and agricultural growth in recent years has exacerbated heavy metal pollution in the state. This study focuses on assessing the heavy metal contamination in the groundwater of Gujarat using the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI). The research covers the entire state, considering its diverse physical, climatic, topographical, and geographical conditions. The HPI scores obtained from individual studies highlight the extent of pollution caused by heavy metals. The overall findings underscore the severe problem of heavy metal contamination in Gujarat's groundwater and the associated health risks. Various other pollution indicators, including the Heavy Metal Evaluation Index, Degree of Contamination, Metal Index, and Water Pollution Index are discussed as tools to assess contamination levels. These indices compare concentrations of different heavy metals with established limits to determine the pollution level. The goal is to provide valuable insights for investors and policymakers in formulating strategies to manage and reduce heavy metal contamination across the state. Additionally, the paper explores effective, environmentally friendly, and economically viable treatment techniques to remove heavy metals from aquatic systems, safeguarding the environment. By employing pollution indicators and remedial actions, this study aims to guide efforts in mitigating the impact of heavy metal contamination in the groundwater of Gujarat.

Spatial interaction and risk zoning of compound pollutants in farmland soils: Insights from heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in Hezhang County, China

The accurate identification and assessment of comprehensive risks associated with compound pollution in agricultural ecosystems remain significant challenges due to the complexity of pollution sources, soil heterogeneity, and spatial variability. In this study, bivariate local indicators of spatial association (LISA) were applied to analyze the spatial interaction between heavy metals (HMs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in farmland soils in Hezhang County. The results revealed distinct clusters with elevated concentrations of both HMs and PAHs, predominantly in areas affected by long-standing lead-zinc mining and smelting activities. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) was utilized to identify mining and smelting activities, and associated coal consumption as common sources of both pollutants, contributing 53 % and 28 %, respectively. Ecological health risk assessment results indicated that the combined pollution in this area has led to particularly severe ecological and cancer risks, with the pollution coefficient (Pc) exceeding 3.0, and risk values for both adults and children surpassing the threshold of 10−4. Through the integration of advanced bivariate LISA mapping and thorough risk assessment, this study precisely delineated ecological risk zones (33.1 %) and more refined health risk zones (40.1 %) associated with combined pollution. The southwest of Hezhang was identified as a critical hotspot for combined pollution risks, primarily due to intensive mining and smelting activities in the region. Overall, this study underscores the utility of bivariate LISA as a robust approach for delineating spatial clustering patterns caused by combined pollutants. It provides crucial insights for identifying regions with heightened human health and ecological risks in rural settings.

Comparison of DeNOx additives in SNCR fluidized bed boiler system

Due to decreasing BAT emission limits of NOx the owners of heating plant are looking for DeNOx solution, especially by solid fuel firing boilers. Fluidized-bed boil-ers combustion temperature is generally lower, and some primary precautions were sufficient. Nowadays lots of plants install secondary precautions (especially SNCR) into their boilers due to increasing periods of exceeding emission NOx limits. The article is about comparison of water solution of urea (41 % wt.), ammonium sulfate (33 % wt.) and am-monia (22 % wt.) and their utilization in SNCR technol-ogy. Laboratory determination specified exact content of functional substance and content of redox nitrogen. Also, significant content of heavy metals was not detected. Operational tests were realized in CFB coal-biomass boiler (steam parameters: 140 t·h-1, 525 °C, 12.5 MPa). Dosing of DeNOx additives were only during boiler per-formance higher than 92 %, for lower performance pri-mary precautions were sufficient. There was higher tem-perature through the combustion chamber during active SNCR dosing (877 °C, standard temperature 850 °C), alt-hough the amount of combustion air was increased. Com-plication connected with high emission of NH3 was not detected. Lower emission of CO was also detected. All three additives are suitable for application in SNCR technology. To reach emission limits were needed 3.7 l·h-1 of ammonia solution, 5.04 l·h-1 of urea solution and 5.74 l·h-1 of ammonium sulfate solution. After recal-culation it means 0.65 kg·h-1 (ammonia), 1.1 kg·h-1 (urea) and 0,38 kg·h-1 (ammonium sulfate) of redox nitrogen content.

Synthesis of Copper-Doped Metal Nanoferrites for Efficient Removal of Pharmaceutical Wastewater Pollutants in Membrane Bioreactor System

Pharmaceuticals present in the aquatic environment can poison aquatic species and humans through drinking water and cause harmful bacteria to become resistant. The role of transition metal doped metal nanoferrites for the enhanced efficiency of degradation process is widely achieved. In this work, copper doped magnesium ferrite (Cu-MgFe2O4) and copper doped zinc ferrite (Cu-ZnFe2O4) nanoparticles were synthesized using a sol-gel method. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the formation of the spinel structure for both samples, with crystal sizes of 16.72 nm and 59.05 nm, respectively. The magnetic properties of the samples were studied using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), which revealed that the addition of Cu2+ ions has a significant impact on the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles. The saturation magnetisation (Ms), retentivity (Mr) and coercivity value (Hc) for the Cu-MgFe2O4 sample were found to be 0.18453 emu, 39.584 × 10-3 emu and 139.61 Oe, respectively, while for the Cu-ZnFe2O4 sample, the values were 0.21271 emu, 71.022 × 10-3 emu and 285.91 Oe, respectively. The impact of copper doped nanoferrites on pollutant removal from pharmaceutical wastewater using the membrane Bioreactor (MBR) system has also been accomplished. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of ferrites in reducing concentrations of heavy metals, including lead and cadmium, within acceptable ranges for inland surface water and public sewers. Furthermore, the MBR system with ferrites exhibited efficient removal of fluoride, sulphide and radioactivity, ensuring compliance with the specified standards. Although the study exhibited the potential of ferrites in pollutants removal, further optimization is necessary to achieve complete compliance with water quality standards.

Impact of petroleum contamination on soil properties in Absheron Peninsula, Azerbaijan

This study aims to assess the extent of hydrocarbon and heavy metal contamination in soils from specific areas on Azerbaijan's Absheron Peninsula, including Absheron, Suraxanı, and Baku, and to evaluate the impact of this contamination on soil properties. Soil samples were analyzed for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons (TPH) and heavy metals, including aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and iron, alongside assessments of soil physical, chemical and biological properties. The results revealed significant contamination across all studied areas, particularly in Suraxanı, where TPH levels reached 190 ± 20 mg/kg, exceeding the environmental standard of 100 mg/kg. Similarly, Suraxanı soils exhibited alarmingly high concentrations of heavy metals, with aluminum at 30,128 ± 1,500 mg/kg, arsenic at 50.94 ± 2.5 mg/kg, and cadmium at 0.153 ± 0.01 mg/kg, all surpassing acceptable limits. These contaminants severely degraded soil health, evidenced by increased bulk density (1.7 g/cm³ in Suraxanı) and reduced soil porosity. Microbial activity, a key indicator of soil fertility, was also markedly lower in contaminated regions, with the total bacterial count in Suraxanı being less than half that of the uncontaminated area. The findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive soil management practices and stricter environmental regulations to mitigate contamination's adverse effects and protect both ecosystems and public health in Azerbaijan’s petroleum contaminated areas.

PERFORMANCE OF MEDICAL WASTE ASH AS A PAVING BLOCK: IMPACTS TO AIR QUALITY AND HEAVY METALS IN PRODUCT

In compliance with regulation of the Republic of Indonesia 22 of 2021, hazardous and toxic waste (B3) producers are obligated to use B3 waste. The purpose of this research is to assess the influence of using ash from incinerated medical waste on air quality and to identify the concentration of heavy metals in paving block products such that its use is ecologically and environmentally benign. Air quality is measured as dust present in it using the Gravimetry technique while noise was measured using a Sound Level Meter. The Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) was used to determine the level of lead Pb, nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), and cadmium (Cd) compounds in the product. The usage of medical waste ash had an influence on the environment with respect to air quality in the form of dust with a value that exceeds the prescribed quality standard threshold, but noise values on the environment and health can be tolerated. Ash from the burning of medical waste has the potential to be used as paving blocks with a soaking period of between seven and 14 days, with metal levels of Ni, Cu, and Cd well below the quality limits imposed by the government. Unlike the heavy metal compound Pb, above the TCLP B (0.5 mg/l). Medical waste ash has the potential to be used as paving blocks with the addition of a pozzolanic composition so that it can bind the maximum amount to heavy metals.

The Content Of Heavy Metal In Turmeric (Curcuma Domestica Val.) In The Volcanic Rocks Oligocene-Miocene Volcano, Biting Wonogiri, Central Java, Indonesia

The Biting Wonogiri area is an area composed of Oligocene-Miocene volcanic deposits and volcanic deposits from Lawu Volcano. The rocks in this area consist of pyroclastic rocks, volcanic breccia, and dacite intrusions. Residents in this area more commonly grow herbal plants such as turmeric. Turmeric plants are mostly planted on old volcanic rocks, namely the Oligocene-Miocene age. By studying the planting patterns of residents, an analysis was carried out regarding the heavy metal chemical elements contained in turmeric. The research methodology was carried out using geological mapping to determine the distribution of the rocks that make up the research area and AAS analysis (Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy). This AAS method is used to determine heavy metal content. The heavy metal elements analyzed in turmeric were Hg, Pb, As, Fe, Al, and Mn. From the analysis results it was found that the heavy metal elements Hg, Pb, and As had very low levels, namely around 0.005-0.400 mg/Kg. Meanwhile, the elements Al, Fe, and Mg have high contents. Turmeric grown on dacite and volcanic breccia has higher Al (622.3-1362.76 mg/Kg) and Fe (271.32-806.27 mg/Kg) content compared to turmeric planted on sedimentary rock. Meanwhile, the metal element Mn varies around 6.85-122.01 mg/Kg. By knowing the content of these Western metal elements, it is hoped that turmeric, which contains heavy metal elements, can be used as a superior herbal herbal medicine. These metal elements, which are very important nutrients, come from old volcanic rocks.

Analysis of heavy metals content in domestic and imported poultry meat

Analysis of heavy metals content in domestic and imported poultry meat

The role of zeolite and mineral fertilizers in enhancing Table Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) productivity in dark chestnut soils of Southeast Kazakhstan

This study evaluated the effectiveness of zeolite, both alone and in combination with mineral fertilizers, in improving the yield and quality of table beets (Beta vulgaris L.) grown in dark chestnut soils of southeast Kazakhstan. The research was conducted at the Kazakh Research Institute of Horticulture during the 2022-2023 growing seasons using a randomized complete block design with six treatments: control (no fertilizers), zeolite 2 t/ha, N45P45K45 (single dose of mineral fertilizers), N90P90K90 (double dose of mineral fertilizers), zeolite 2 t/ha + N45P45K45, and zeolite 2 t/ha + N90P90K90, replicated three times. The application of zeolite significantly improved soil physical properties, such as water permeability and soil density, enhancing root development and water retention. Nutrient availability, particularly nitrate nitrogen and mobile phosphorus, increased significantly in zeolite-treated plots. The combination of zeolite and mineral fertilizers resulted in the highest improvements, with nitrate nitrogen content reaching 40.5 mg/kg and mobile phosphorus 89.2 mg/kg. Moreover, zeolite reduced heavy metal concentrations, particularly cadmium, by 50% compared to the control. Table beet yield significantly increased with zeolite application, with the highest yield of 62.7 t/ha achieved with 2 t/ha zeolite combined with double dose N90P90K90 fertilizers, compared to 42.8 t/ha in the control. Marketable yield also improved, indicating better crop quality. Nutrient composition of the beets improved, with increased dry matter content (21.9%) and reduced nitrate content (240 mg/kg) in zeolite-treated variants. In conclusion, zeolite, especially when combined with mineral fertilizers, effectively enhances soil health, nutrient availability, and table beet yield and quality.

Use of Scalp Hair as a Biomarker to Determine Airborne Heavy Metal Concentrations for the Academic Laboratory Employees

Academic chemical laboratories (ACL) are considered public places the employees come in contact with a variety of pollutants. The aim of the current study was to detect heavy metals levels in the indoor air of ACL in two universities in Baghdad city and assess their levels in the academic employees’ scalp hair as biomarkers. Air samples inside ACL were collected to detect Fe, Cd, Zn, Pb and Cu. Scalp hair samples were collected from 40 adult chemical laboratory employees aged 30-60 years, who worked 5 days/week for 6 hours a day. Personal information relating to employees such as age, duration of exposure, smoking habit and sex, was collected as a questionnaire. The results of this study concluded that academic laboratory employees were exposed to high levels of heavy metals which was proven through the use of scalp hair; old ages, prolonged working periods, smoking habit have significant effects in increasing the levels of heavy metals in scalp hair, while the employees’ gender variation did not have a significant effect.

Using Nuclear Methods in X-ray Fluorescence Spectroscopy to Quantify Heavy Metals in Senegalese Powdered Milk: Improving Milk Safety

Applying X-ray fluorescence (XRF), this study investigated the elemental analysis and heavy metal contents in five Senegalese powdered milk samples (V1, L1, H1, G1, and D1). The primary focus was on Aluminum (Al), Calcium (Ca), Potassium (K), Phosphorous (P), and Chlorine (Cl), with special attention given to the compliance of these elements with safety standards. The analysis revealed that Aluminum was either absent or present in minimal quantities across all samples, suggesting that the powdered milk is largely free from this element. Calcium levels were found to be consistently higher than the Acceptable Maximum Level (AML) across all samples, with the H1 sample significantly exceeding the AML by approximately 11.1 times, with a concentration of 27,745.06 ± 310.16 ppm. This indicates a potential risk of excessive calcium intake from this sample. Potassium concentrations varied significantly; while the V1 sample remained within acceptable limits, the G1 sample exhibited potassium levels substantially above the AML, reaching 51,058.15 ± 456.13 ppm, which could pose health concerns if consumed in large quantities. Chlorine concentrations generally met the AML, except for the G1 sample, which slightly surpassed the limit at 3631.04 ± 31.23 ppm. The phosphorus content in the H1 sample was notably high, though further details are needed to fully assess its implications. The study underscores the necessity for continuous monitoring of heavy metal and elemental levels in powdered milk to ensure consumer safety.

Ecological Assessment of Soil Samples Around Refuse Dump Sites Within the Metropolis of Enugu State, Nigeria

This study looked at assessing the impact of solid wastes within Enugu metropolis on heavy metal concentrations and otherphysicochemical properties of soil samples from the site locations. Physicochemical analysis of the soil from the respectiverefusedump sites showed pH of 4.24, 6.3 and 5.87 respectively in the presence of the control experiment which maintained atpH of 7.6 throughout the experiment. Soil conductivity of the respective refuses ites within Enugu municipal showed a progressive increase of soil conductivity. Mineral contents were found in the following order: Cl&amp;gt;Ca&amp;gt;Mg&amp;gt;K&amp;gt;PO&amp;lt;sub&amp;gt;3&amp;lt;/sub&amp;gt;. Heavy metals of Hg, As and Cd were found at below detectable limit range (BDL) in both the sampled soils from the respective refuse dumpsite andcontrol experiment. Cu, and Pb were significantly high in all the sampled soil from the dumpsites however, Cd was only detected in the soil sample from refuse dump III. Fe showed a progressive decrease across the dumpsites oil samples.

Ameliorating effects of natural herbal supplements against water-borne induced toxicity of heavy metals on Nile tilapia, (Oreochromis niloticus)

The efficacy of herbal supplements in mitigating heavy metals (HMs) toxicity was investigated using a widely grown fish, the Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). The experiment was conducted over two phases: during the stress phase, the experimental fishes were exposed to sub-lethal concentrations of HMs, including lead, cadmium, zinc, and copper for 15 days; following which during the feeding phase, herbal supplements were given for 70 days to ameliorate their effects. Seven groups were established: the control negative group (CON−ve), control positive group (CON+ve, without any treatment), and five groups with supplementation of 1% turmeric (TUR), cinnamon (CIN), ginger (GIN), garlic (GAR), and their mixture (MIX), respectively. A total of 315 fishes were distributed evenly in experimental tanks (15 fishes per tank, in triplicates). The results revealed that exposure to HMs led to significant (p < 0.05) alterations in all the tested parameters, i.e., liver damage and growth reduction. The herbal supplements, especially the MIX groups, ameliorated the harmful effects of HMs and restored fish growth, digestibility, carcass composition, and liver health. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that the herbal supplements were effective in reducing the HMs-linked toxicity in Nile tilapia. Future studies pertaining to the mechanisms facilitated by the various herbal bioactive substances-linked tolerance to HMs in fishes are warranted.

Impact of industrial effluents on buringanga river and its tributaries

Many rivers throughout Bangladesh are now under threat due to both human-made and natural causes. In this context, we describe the Buriganga river system, its uses of the river, its level of pollution, and its sources of pollution. The present condition of the Buriganga water and its surrounding areas soils and plants might not be suitable for fisheries and irrigation; it has been observed that sampling points of 9,10,11 were highly polluted, with sampling point 7 with the highest water pH value (7.19), in sampling point 11 EC value was found (799 μS/cm) with other physicochemical parameters and Fe, Cd, Cr and Zn content in plant and soil samples were comparatively high at sampling point 9 and 11. In the studied area, the correlation coefficient of heavy metal content among soil and water, the Cr concentration (0.0289mg/l), was highly significant; it has been indicated that heavy metals were uptake by soil. Bangladesh J. Bot. 53(3): 589-596, 2024 (September)

Model multifactor analysis of soil heavy metal pollution on plant germination in Southeast Chengdu, China: Based on redundancy analysis, factor detector, and XGBoost-SHAP

This study assessed the levels of soil heavy metal pollution in agricultural land in southeastern Chengdu and its effects on the germination stage of higher plants. Through extensive soil sampling and laboratory analyses, 15 soil environmental factors were measured, including soil density, porosity, pH, field moisture capacity (FMC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), and heavy metals such as arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd). Acute toxicity tests were performed on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) and Brassica napus (Brassica napus var. napus). The results of the geo-accumulation index (Igeo) and enrichment factor (EF) analyses indicate a higher risk of pollution and enrichment of As and Cd in the study area, with relatively lower risks for other heavy metals. Additionally, the current soil heavy metal concentrations inhibited the growth of sorghum and Brassica napus shoots and roots during the germination stage. Redundancy analysis (RDA), factor detector, and XGBoost-SHAP models identified the As, Cd, FMC, and CaCO3 contents, soil density, and porosity as the primary factors influencing plant growth. Among these factors, FMC, porosity, and Cd were found to promote plant growth, whereas soil density and As demonstrated inhibitory effects. CaCO3 had a dual effect, initially promoting growth but later inhibiting it as its concentration increased. Further analysis revealed that Brassica napus is more sensitive to soil environmental factors than sorghum, particularly to Cd and As, while sorghum has greater tolerance. Moreover, roots were found to be more sensitive than shoots to soil environmental factors, with roots being influenced primarily by physical factors such as FMC and soil density, whereas shoots were affected primarily by chemical factors such as As and Cd.This study addresses the significant lack of data regarding the impact of soil heavy metal concentrations on plant growth in southeastern Chengdu, providing a scientific basis for regional environmental monitoring, soil remediation, and plant cultivation optimization.