Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry Research Articles

Pozzolanic metakaolin reactivity: Time-dependent influence of calcium hydroxide, alkali hydroxides, and sulfates

In the quest for environmentally sustainable binders within the construction industry, metakaolin (MK) has emerged as a highly promising material. Its reactivity and hardening performance encompass a wide range of applications, spanning from lime to cement-based materials. This performance is primarily underpinned by the pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide (CH), leading to the formation of various calcium aluminate silicate hydrates. The intricacies of the hydration kinetics and resultant reaction products hinge on several factors woven into the specifics of the binder type. This study investigates the influence of CH availability, explored through initially mixed MK/CH weight ratios of 0.33 and 1.0. Furthermore, the study examines the impact of introducing alkali hydroxides (KOH and NaOH) and/or sulfates (K2SO4 and Na2SO4) on the pozzolanic reactions. Short-term analysis employed inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and pH measurements for pore solution as well as isothermal calorimetry, and in-situ X-ray diffraction (XRD) on paste samples. Long-term investigations extended to 245 days at 40 °C, incorporating XRD, thermogravimetric (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDX). Results provide insights into the kinetics of phase assemblage and compositions of C-A-S-H gels, highlighting the transformation of metastable C2ASH8 and C4AH13 to stable Si-rich hydrogarnet phases, incorporating sulfate, under excess CH conditions. Higher MK/CH enriches Si/Ca, Al/Ca, enhancing C-A-S-H gels, while KOH addition further boosts Al/Ca ratios.

The use of a portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer for measuring nickel in plants: sample preparation and validation.

X-ray fluorescence is a fast, cost-effective, and eco-friendly method for elemental analyses. Portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometers (pXRF) have proven instrumental in detecting metals across diverse matrices, including plants. However, sample preparation and measurement procedures need to be standardized for each instrument. This study examined sample preparation methods and predictive capabilities for nickel (Ni) concentrations in various plants using pXRF, employing empirical calibration based on inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) Ni data. The evaluation involved 300 plant samples of 14 species with variable of Ni accumulation. Various dwell times (30, 60, 90, 120, 300s) and sample masses (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0g) were tested. Calibration models were developed through empirical and correction factor approaches. The results showed that the use of 1.0g of sample (0.14gcm-2) and a dwell time of 60s for the study conditions were appropriate for detection by pXRF. Ni concentrations determined by ICP-OES were highly correlated (R2 = 0.94) with those measured by the pXRF instrument. Therefore, pXRF can provide reliable detection of Ni in plant samples, avoiding the digestion of samples and reducing the decision-making time in environmental management.

Microelements, Fatty Acid Profile, and Selected Biomarkers in Grass Carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) Muscle Tissue: Seasonal Variations and Health Risk Assessment

AbstractThe study assesses associations between microelement levels, fatty acid composition, and oxidative stress markers in grass carp muscle in the summer and autumn seasons. Additionally, various factors were considered, including the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total THQ (TTHQ), and metal pollution index (MPI), to evaluate potential health risks for consumers. The microelements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Li, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, and Zn) were determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and total mercury was determined using cold-vapor atomic absorption spectroscopy (CV-AAS). Fatty acid profiling was realized using gas chromatography (GC) detection with a flame ionization detector (FID). The overall tendency of microelement levels was as follows: Fe > Zn > Al > Sr > Ba > Ni > Se > Cr> Cu > Mn > Pb > As > Li > Hg; <LOQ (below limit of quantification): Cd, and Co. The correlation analysis between concentrations of trace elements (Al, Ba, Cr, Cu, Mn, Li, Sr, Zn, and Hg) and the fatty acids (C16:0, C16:1, C18:1n9c, C18:2n6c, C20:4n6c, EPA, and DHA), as well as between Al, Ba, Fe, or Hg and oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase—SOD, glutathione peroxidase—GPx, or total antioxidant status—TAS), revealed statistically significant interactions in different seasons. THQ values were lower than 1; TTHQ values ranged from 0.27 to 0.76. The main toxic elements forming TTHQ were Hg and Ni (49%). The calculated health risk assessment indices indicate a low concentration of observed elements and low risks associated with the consumption of grass carp muscle from the tested location, although concentrations and THQ of mercury and nickel may be of slight concern.

The Waelz Slag from Electric Arc Furnace Dust Processing: Characterization and Magnetic Separation Studies

The Waelz slag generated during electric arc furnace dust processing is an iron-rich product with significant amounts of iron, zinc and copper. About 600–800 kg of the Waelz slag is generated per ton of the dust processed. The Waelz slag samples from two different plants were thoroughly characterized using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), chemical phase analysis, Mössbauer spectroscopy and other supporting methods. The phase distribution of iron, zinc and copper was determined in the Waelz slag samples. Low-intensity wet magnetic separation was tested for the iron recovery from the Waelz slag samples. It was found that the Waelz slag samples have complex chemical and mineralogical compositions, which can impede the selective recovery of valuable elements. The obtained results indicate that the chemical and mineralogical composition of the Waelz slag samples has a considerable effect on the magnetic separation indexes. The experiments showed that the iron concentrates with Fe contents of 73% and 46.8% with the metallization degrees of 87.2% and 57.5% and the iron recovery degree of 54.8% and 52.9% were obtained at optimal conditions for two different samples, respectively, without selective segregation of Cu and Zn in the magnetic or non-magnetic fraction.

Evaluation of in vitro antioxidant activities, total phenolic and elemental contents of common herbs and spices (Moringa oleifera leaves, Allium sativum (Garlic) and Momordica charantia (ejinrin) leaves) in South-West Nigeria

Abstract Natural remedies are being widely utilized in some disease’s conditions including cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, atherosclerosis hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases. The therapeutic intervention of medicinal plants and spices cannot be overemphasized in the management and control of diseases but the exact modes of action of these herbs and plants have not been fully elucidated. This research work was designed to study the expression of selected elements, zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), selenium (Se), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd); the phytochemical and the in vitro antioxidant properties of ethanolic extracts of Moringa oleifera leaves, Allium sativum (Garlic) and Momordica charantia (ejinrin) leaves for their potential involvement in the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases and cancer through different chemical methods. In vitro antioxidant properties were assayed by investigating 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) free radicals scavenging potentials and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential (FRAP); total phenolic content was determined by using Folin-Ciocalteu assay and the elemental contents of these extracts was investigated through the use of Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). All tests were run in triplicates and analysed. Our results revealed that the ethanolic extracts of M. oleifera leaves, A. sativum (Garlic) and M. charantia (ejinrin) leaves possess significant antioxidant activities and express important and beneficial elements (in marginal and trace amounts) and phytochemicals. These results suggest that the medicinal attributes of these plants may be linked to the radical scavenging abilities, beneficial elements and phytochemicals expression of their ethanolic extracts which may likely be a good direction in the area of drug discovery and development.

HSPiP and QbD oriented optimized green nanoemulsion to treat chloramphenicol contaminated water

Nanoemulsion is an isotropic and kinetically stable system used for multiple purposes. Exhaustive flow of chloramphenicol (CAMP) in the water systems raised global thereat to aquatic and human lives. Innate cohesive energy of the material is the basis of predictive HSPiP program. We aimed to prepare biocompatible nanoemulsion employing eugenol oil, lecithin, tween 80, and propylene glycol) for the contaminated water treatment. Furthermore, experimental design oriented robust nanoemulsion (OCEN1) investigated the impact of composition, CTime (exposure time), and nanoemulsion characteristics on percent removal efficiency (%RE). Thermodynamic stability study was conducted at different temperatures. Finally, the presence of CAMP in the treated water was negated by ICP-OES (inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy). HSP (Hansen solubility parameters) and experimental solubility data were the basis of excipient selection. A blend of tween-80 and lecithin served as surfactant mixture (Smix) to stabilize nanoemulsion. OCEN1 was associated with high desirability (D = 0.93), low size (43 nm), low PDI (0.19), high %RE (90.72 % over period of 17 min of exposure time), optimal viscosity (1.12 cP), and high zeta potential (−25 mV). Experimental design identified significant impact of composition, exposure time (CTime), and nanoemulsion characteristics on %RE as prime factors to consider before wastewater treatment plant installation. Thus, the approach is simple, rapid, ecofriendly, and scalable to treat CAMP contaminated water with high selectivity and efficiency.

Insight into natural ageing of historic baltic amber objects by untargeted metabolomics approach

Cherished amber relics have undergone long-period burial environments carrying several ageing deterioration characteristics, such as crazing, discolouration, and decreased hardness, which makes amber artefacts fragile. Ageing is inevitable for amber exposed to air, emphasising the need for a suitable preservation environment based on the ageing mechanism. However, related research, specifically on the transformed compositions and structures of archaeological amber, has been limited due to complexities in deciphering the intricate components. In this research, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and pyrolysis–gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) were applied on geological and archaeological Baltic amber to find the ageing pathways. An untargeted metabolomics analysis developed for the linear modelling of molecular features data was utilised in combination with Py-GC/MS results, and statistically significant variations provided ten increased and ten decreased ageing markers. We propose an ageing mechanism for the succinite molecular structure, which involves oxidation of the polylabdanoid and hydrolysis of the esterification cross-link structure between succinic acid and labdanoid. Simultaneously, monoterpenes were released from the amber structure. Our untargeted Py-GC/MS metabolomics approach offers a groundbreaking and more systematic method for investigating the ageing mechanism of multi-component organic polymers in archaeological artefacts.

Bioactivity of radiopaque 45S5 bioactive glass with progressive additions of Bi2O3: A dissolution study under static conditions

The integration of bioactive glasses (BGs) into hard tissues in in-vivo models can be evaluated through X-ray radiographs. The image contrast plays an important role and should be enhanced to improve accurate minimal invasive diagnostics of the performance of BGs containing implants after surgery. The present work shows the effect of the progressive addition of Bi2O3 (up to 12.2 wt%) on the structure, thermal properties, radiopacity, and bioactivity of 45S5-like BG obtained by quenching of the melt prepared from oxide precursors. The BG chemical composition, phase composition, structure, chemical state, thermal properties, and radiopacity were respectively investigated by X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and radiopacity analysis according to the ISO13116:2014 norm. The bioactivity of the glasses was monitored by immersing them in a simulated body fluid (SBF) under static conditions. The apatite formation ability and ion concentration in SBF after 3, 7, 14, and 21 days were investigated by XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), and ICP mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). All samples were found to be X-ray amorphous. Simultaneous formation of [BiO3] and [BiO6] units is noted in the BG. The glass radiopacity increased up to 1.8 and 4.2 times compared to the reference glasses without Bi2O3. Bi2O3 additions in the glass slow down the formation of apatite-like structures as a result of the network forming role of [BiO3] and [BiO6] units in the BG. Nevertheless, the BGs with the 12.2 wt % Bi2O3 still shows the ability to form apatite deposits after 7 days of immersion in simulated body fluid (SBF).

Unique hepatic maternal transfer pattern of trace metals and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a bluntnose sixgill shark (Hexanchus griseus)

The fate and distribution of environmental contaminants includes bioaccumulation within marine organisms. A deceased 4-m long adult female bluntnose sixgill shark, pregnant with 72 pups, was recovered from Coles Bay on Vancouver Island, BC, Canada in 2019. This specimen provided a unique opportunity to examine maternal transfer of contaminants in a yolk-sac viviparous shark species. Liver subsamples of the adult and offspring were analyzed for 18 targeted inorganic elements by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) and 21 targeted perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-Orbitrap MS). The maternal-offspring transfer efficiencies in liver tissue were subsequently examined for both contaminant classes. Concentrations of all detectable metals apart from calcium and magnesium were found to be higher in the mother compared to the offspring, including substantial levels of toxic cadmium (6 ± 2 mg kg-1 dw) and lead (7 ± 3 mg kg-1 dw). Conversely, high maternal transfer efficiencies were observed for PFAS (i.e., ΣPFAS = 71 ± 9 ng g-1 ww in offspring compared to 13 ± 9 ng g-1 ww in the mother). This study highlighted the unique maternal transfer characteristics of PFAS in bluntnose sixgill sharks depending on the structure of the polar head group, with greater liver-to-liver transfer efficiencies observed for perfluorocarboxylic acids (PFCAs) than perfluorosulfonic acids (PFSAs) of the same fluorocarbon chain length.

Supramolecular deep eutectic solvent: a powerful tool for pre-concentration of trace metals in edible oil.

The utilization of supramolecular deep eutectic solvent eddy-assisted liquid-liquid microextraction utilizing 2-hydroxypropyl β-cyclodextrin (SUPRADES) has been identified as a successful method for pre-enriching Cu, Zn, and Mn in vegetable oil samples. Determination of each element was conducted by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) after digestion of metal-enriched phases. Various parameters were examined, including the composition of SUPRADES species [2HP-β-CD: DL-lactic acid], a cyclodextrin mass ratio of 20wt%, a water bath temperature of 75 °C, an extractor volume of 800 μL, a dispersant volume of 50μL, and an eddy current time of 5min. Optimal conditions resulted in extraction rates of 99.6% for Cu, 105.2% for Zn, and 101.5% for Mn. The method exhibits a broad linear range spanning from 10 to 20,000μg L-1, with determination coefficients exceeding 0.99 for all analytes. Enrichment coefficients of 24, 21, and 35 were observed. Limits of detection ranged from 0.89 to 1.30μg L-1, while limits of quantification ranged from 3.23 to 4.29 μg L-1. The unique structural characteristics of the method enablethe successful determination of trace elements in a variety of edible vegetable oils.

Biofabrication of Silver Nanoparticles Using Green Seaweed: Characterisation and Antibacterial Evaluation

This study investigates the Chaetomorpha antennina (CA) seaweed-mediated biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). The synthesis process of silver nanoparticles was monitored over time with the help of an Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer and further characterisation studies were also performed. Differential Light Scattering (DLS) measurements revealed a mean particle size of approximately 103.5nm and a mean zeta potential value of -57.5mV for AgNPs. The spherical shape and size of the AgNPs were confirmed through High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) imaging, while Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDAX) analysis provided insights into the elemental composition. The concentration of AgNPs was estimated using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). The antibacterial potential of AgNPs was evaluated against both gram-positive (Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and gram-negative bacterial strains (Klebsiella pneumoniae, Escherichia coli, Shigella dysentriae, Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus mirabilis) using the agar well diffusion method. From the results, AgNPs exhibited significant antibacterial activity against B. subtilis and S. typhi among all the tested concentration levels (25, 50, 75 and 100μl).

Analysis of Trace Impurities in Lithium Carbonate.

Lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) is a critical raw material in cathode material production, a core of Li-ion battery manufacturing. The quality of this material significantly influences its market value, with impurities potentially affecting Li-ion battery performance and longevity. While the importance of impurity analysis is acknowledged by suppliers and manufacturers of battery materials, reports on elemental analysis of trace impurities in Li2CO3 salt are scarce. This study aims to establish and validate an analytical methodology for detecting and quantifying trace impurities in Li2CO3 salt. Various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), were employed to analyze synthetic and processed lithium salt. X-ray diffraction patterns of Li2CO3 were collected via step-scanning mode in the 5-80° 2θ range. SEM-EDX was utilized for particle morphology and quantitative impurity analysis, with samples localized on copper tape. XPS equipped with a hemispherical electron analyzer was employed to analyze the surface composition of the salt. For ICP-OES analysis, a known amount of lithium salt was subjected to acid digestion and dilution with ultrapure water. Multielemental standard solutions were prepared, including elements such as Al, Cd, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Si, Zn, Ca, K, Mg, Na, and S. Results confirmed the presence of the zabuyelite phase in XRD analysis, corresponding to the natural form of lithium carbonate. SEM-EDX mapping revealed impurities of Si and Al, with low relative quantification values of 0.12% and 0.14%, respectively. XPS identified eight potential impurity elements, including S, Cr, Fe, Cl, F, Zn, Mg, and Na, alongside Li, O, and C. Regarding ICP-OES analysis, performance parameters such as linearity, limit of detection (LOD), and quantification (LOQ), variance, and recovery were evaluated for analytical validation. ICP-OES results demonstrated high linearity (>0.99), with LOD and LOQ values ranging from 0.001 to 0.800 ppm and 0.003 to 1.1 ppm, respectively, for different elements. The recovery rate exceeded 90%. In conclusion, the precision of the new ICP-OES methodology renders it suitable for identifying and characterizing Li2CO3 impurities. It can effectively complement solid-state techniques such as XRD, SEM-EDX, and XPS.

Health risk assessment of occupational exposure to heavy metals among green space workers in Iran.

Exposure to heavy metals can result in various adverse health effects. Tehran is rated as one of the world's most polluted cities. Green space workers are continuously exposed to such pollutants in this city. Thus, this study aimed to estimate the health risks caused by exposure to heavy metals among green space workers. Eighty-eight workers and office personnel in two regions with different air quality levels were chosen for sampling. Air samples were collected using the NIOSH-7300 method and analyzed using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) instrument. The hazard quotient (HQ) and the lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) were calculated to assess carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk levels. The results revealed that the rank order of heavy metals was determined as Zn, Pb, Mn, Ni, Co, and Cd. Workers were subjected to higher concentrations of Ni, Pb, Zn, and Co than office personnel. Furthermore, the Cd, Co, and Zn exposure levels stood significantly higher in region 6 than in region 14. Non-carcinogenic risk levels for all participants fell within the acceptable range. Moreover, no employee had a carcinogenic risk level within the acceptable range when exposed to Cd. Also, 2.3% of individuals demonstrated Ni's acceptable carcinogenic risk level. Owing unacceptable risk levels, proper interventions are required to minimize occupational exposure to heavy metals. These interventions include optimizing shift schedules, using personal protective equipment, and conducting regular health assessments.

Commercially available mouthguards: Unearthing trace elements for the first time

The use of mouthguards is advocated by the American Dental Association for orofacial injury prevention and teeth protection. However, the chemical environment in the mouth may cause harmful substances within the mouthguard's polymer material to leach out and be absorbed by the user. Considering this, the present study for the first time analyzed commercially available mouthguards and disclosed the presence of trace elements. Specifically, an analytical method was developed based on closed-vessel microwave-assisted digestion and plasma-based atomic spectrometry for determining toxic trace elements in mouthguard samples. Initially, 75 elements were assessed and, thereafter, quantified cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu) and lead (Pb) in each sample by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Method validation was carried out by analyzing a certified reference material of Low-Density Polyethylene, and by addition and recovery experiments. Results for copper were further validated by ICP optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). While most samples exhibited elemental levels beneath the method's limit of quantification, Cd, Cu and Pb were detected in four samples. Remarkably, one sample had Cu levels exceeding safe limits by 109 times, highlighting potential toxicity risks. This initial research underscores the need for stricter contamination control in mouthguard materials to minimize potentially health hazards.

Assessment of groundwater quality and alkaline earth metals from the Al Masaraat basin at Al Dhahirah Governorate, Sultanate of Oman

ABSTRACT Comprehending the physicochemical properties of water is vital for efficient groundwater management in the research area. Groundwater often sees an increase in chemical element concentrations as it moves underground due to water-rock interaction. Water quality is assessed by comparing various parameter levels with drinking water standards. The primary goal of this study is to assess the groundwater quality from Al Dhahirah Governorate by analysing the physicochemical characteristics (pH, EC, TDS, TH, and T) and evaluating the concentrations of alkali and alkaline earth metals. It involved collecting groundwater samples from 11 different sites in the area and using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) to analyse various elements, such as Ca, Na, Mg, and Sr. The study’s results reveal that the quality parameters of drinking water sources are within the Omani and World Health Organization (WHO) standards, except for Na, Mg, Sr, and TH level. The average concentrations of Na and Mg were 527.64 and 87.93 mg/L, respectively, while the average TH measured 658.86 mg/L, which is classified as very hard. The analysis of correlations among groundwater quality parameters indicates that physicochemical parameters influence the chemical properties of groundwater. To ensure safe drinking water, it is advisable to treat contaminated water before use and regularly monitor its quality. The findings contribute to the understanding of water quality in this region, providing valuable insights for environmental and public health considerations.

Cyrene- and water-based exfoliation of black phosphorus for potential nanolayer-mediated disaggregation of insulin fibrils

Liquid suspensions of phosphorene nanolayers (2D-bP) obtained through liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) of elemental black phosphorus (bP) have been prepared and extensively characterized. The exfoliating ability of deionized water (DI water), dihydrolevoglucosenone, (Cyrene), and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) has been investigated and compared along with the differences in the structure, concentration, and stability of the collected nanoflakes. Water was chosen as an exfoliating medium due to its harmlessness and cost-effectiveness and because it is the safest solvent for further potential biomedical applications. Cyrene is a new bio-based solvent still under study. NMP, which is among the most widely used solvents for the exfoliation of 2D systems including bP, has been employed for comparison. The obtained suspensions have been characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES), Phosphorus 31 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (31P NMR), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), Ultraviolet -Visible (UV–Vis), and Raman spectroscopies. The stability of 2D-bP suspensions over time and their photoactivity, i.e., their ability to generate singlet oxygen species as a photosensitizer, have been investigated. The collected results evidenced that the exfoliation of bP in different solvents, including DI water, resulted in satisfactory and comparable nanoflake structures and features. The singlet oxygen generation through irradiation of 2D-bP in DI water suspensions, advantageously obtained directly from LPE, showed promising potential for use in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Preliminary data on the potential biomedical application of 2D-bP to inhibit the insulin self-assembly into amyloid aggregates as well as to cause fibrils disassembling through simple incubation or photoactivity, are also discussed.

A new strategy to improve the anticorrosion performance of waterborne polyurethane coating on AA7075

In this study, Ce3+ functionalised halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) were prepared, and their impact on the anticorrosion properties of waterborne polyurethane (WPU) coating on 7075 aluminium alloy (AA7075) was investigated. HNTs were grafted by 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to enhance Ce3+ loading, which was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum. The release behaviour of Ce3+ from HNTs was tested by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and the inhibition effect of Ce3+-loaded HNTs for AA7075 was tested by polarization plots. The anticorrosion property of WPU doped with Ce3+-loaded HNTs was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and pull-off adhesion test. The results showed that APTES modification improved the Ce3+ loading amount on HNTs, and Ce3+ acts as an effective cathodic inhibitor for AA7075. After soaking for 40 days, the |Z|0.01Hz of Ce-HNTs/WPU was two orders of magnitude higher than that of pure WPU, while wet put-off adhesion was higher than pure WPU.

Heavy metals and radionuclides in Islamabad's industrial area: A comprehensive analysis of soil and water pollution, source apportionment and health effects using statistical and geospatial tools

IntroductionHeavy metal pollution in industrial areas around the world is a significant problem that is worsening day by day. Heavy and toxic metals are detrimental to human health and ecology in a region. Hence, determining their level and potential is critical to form effective pollution control strategies for reducing the risks associated with them. Study areaIslamabad is the capital city of Pakistan with a dedicated industrial zone. PurposeThis study evaluated the heavy metal pollution levels in the soil and water of Islamabad's industrial area and radionuclides activity in the soil using statistical, geospatial tools as well as their subsequent health and ecological hazards. Materials and methodsElemental analysis in this study was performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The radionuclides activity in the soil was quantified using High Purity Germanium Detector (HPGe). ResultsThe soil of Islamabad's industrial area is highly polluted with heavy and toxic metals. The risk posed by heavy metals to the eco-system was calculated using Ecological risk factor and was found to be above recommended level. Principal component analysis (PCA), Pearson's correlation and inverse distance weighting interpolation (IDW) revealed that the soil near the steel mills, landfill and marble processing plants is extremely polluted with heavy metals. Health hazards from heavy metal exposure through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact were also calculated. Cr posed a carcinogenic risk to children via the three exposure pathways with the value being 4 × 10−4. Natural radioactivity levels for Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 were found to be 25.96±12.50, 15.84±2.59, 469.48±52.38 Bqkg−1, respectively. Elemental analysis of water samples coupled with geospatial analysis showed that water samples collected near the industrial complexes have elevated levels of Sb. The water quality for irrigation was assessed and the water from Islamabad's industrial area was found to be suitable for irrigation. ConclusionIn conclusion, the soil of Islamabad's industrial area is highly polluted with heavy metals and has lower levels of natural radioactivity. The water near the industries also has elevated levels of some heavy metals.

Copper Deficiency Associated with Glycemic Control in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.

Adequate copper (Cu) status has been associated with improved glycemic control, partly because of its role in reducing oxidative stress through superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. Thus, the aim was to investigate the relationship between plasma Cu concentration and markers associated with glycemic control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). This observational and cross-sectional study was conducted in individuals with T2DM of both sexes, aged between 19 and 59years. Plasma Cu levels were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Fasting glucose and insulin concentrations, C-peptide levels, SOD activity, and glycated hemoglobin (%HbA1c) were measured. Homeostatic model assessments (HOMA%B, HOMA%S, and HOMA-IR) were also performed. Additionally, %body fat and waist circumference were measured, and body mass index was calculated. Participants were categorized based on their plasma Cu concentrations (< 70µg/dL and ≥ 70µg/dL). The associations between variables were analyzed using chi-squared or Fisher's test and binary logistic regression models. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05. Of the 97 participants (74.2% women), 85.5% had Cu deficiency. Cu-deficient individuals showed elevated C-peptide concentrations and HOMA%B values compared to those with adequate Cu levels (2.8ng/mL vs. 1.8ng/mL, P = 0.011; and 71.4 vs. 31.0, P = 0.003), respectively. Cu deficiency was associated with insulin resistance (P = 0.044) and decreased likelihood of exceeding the target serum glucose level (OR = 0.147, P = 0.013). However, no significant association was found between SOD activity and plasma Cu concentration. Consequently, Cu deficiency was linked to improved glycemic control, although it was not associated with the other markers.

Microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES)—A useful tool for the determination of silicon contents in plant samples?

The accurate quantification of silicon (Si) contents in plant materials represents a fundamental prerequisite for agricultural plant-soil system or terrestrial ecosystem studies. Si contents in plants are usually calculated from Si concentrations determined spectroscopically in corresponding plant extracts. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) is widely used in environmental sciences for Si measurements, because this technique is characterized by relatively high sensitivity and low expenditure of human labor. However, as an ICP-OES instrument is also characterized by relatively high acquisition and running costs, it is not readily available to most laboratories. Microwave plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (MP-AES) might represent a cost-effective alternative to ICP-OES. In our study we compared the results obtained from ICP-OES and MP-AES measurements of Si concentrations in Tiron extracts of husk and straw samples of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum) to evaluate the capability of the MP-AES technique for the determination of Si contents in plant materials. Moreover, we correlated these results with data on plant available Si concentrations in corresponding soil samples as well as phytolith contents in the husk and straw samples to evaluate the performance of MP-AES in biogeochemical Si plant-soil studies. Based on our results we found MP-AES to represent a suitable technique for the reliable determination of Si concentrations in Tiron extracts with negligible matrix effects. Our results clearly indicate that MP-AES represents a promising alternative for all researchers with a focus on biogeochemical Si cycling in general.