Cr Levels Research Articles

Plastics and plastic-bound toxic metals in municipal solid waste compost from Sri Lanka.

This study examined plastics and toxic metals in municipal solid waste compost from various regions in Sri Lanka. Plastics were extracted using density separation, digested using wet peroxidation, and identified using Fourier Transform Infra-Red Spectroscopy in Attenuated Total Reflection mode. Compost and plastics were acid-digested to quantify total Cd, Cu, Co, Cr, Pb, and Zn concentrations and analyzed for the bioavailable fraction using 0.01M CaCl2. Notably, plastics were highly abundant in most compost samples. The main plastic types detected were polyethylene, polypropylene, and cellophane. However, the average Cd, Cu, Co, Cr, Pb, and Zn levels were 0.727, 60.78, 3.670, 25.44, 18.95, and 130.7mg/kg, respectively, which are well below the recommended levels. Zn was the most bioavailable (2.476mg/kg), and Cd was the least bioavailable (0.053mg/kg) metal associated with compost. The Contamination factor data show that there is considerable enhancement of Cd and Cu, however, Cr, Cu, Co, and Pb are at low contamination levels. Mean geo accumulation index values were 1.39, 1.07, - 1.06, - 0.84, - 0.32, and 0.08 for Cd, Cu, Co, Cr, Pb, and Zn. Therefore, the contamination level of compost samples with Cd and Cu ranges from uncontaminated to contaminated levels, whereas Co, Cr, Pb, and Zn are at uncontaminated levels. Despite no direct metal-plastic correlation, plastics in compost could harm plants, animals, and humans due to ingestion. Hence, reducing plastic and metal contamination in compost is crucial.

Baseline study of biomarkers of exposure to metal and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon in wild Mugil cephalus from the coastal waters of Fiji

The indirect exposure and effects of marine pollutants such as metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, present significant health concerns for human coastal communities that rely on fish consumption as a regular nutritional source. This study verified Mugil cephalus (“mullet”) as an adequate sentinel species for biomonitoring environmental health and conducting risk assessments using biomarkers in Fiji. A non-parametric Kruskall Wallis Test was employed at a 5 % significant difference level to test sample group differences. Sampling was performed over five months in two Fijian study areas, i.e., Laucala Bay and the Ba River Delta by local fishers based on Fiji’s wet season (Nov-Mar). The K factor and hepatosomatic index (HSI) were relatively lower in mullet from Laucala Bay compared to the Ba River Delta, with HSI having a significant difference (χ2= 3.64, d.f. = 1, p-value = 0.057). No significant differences were observed for metals (Pb and Cr) at an instrumental limit of detection of 0.05 mg kg−1, but an important finding was that the levels of Cr in edible tissues of mullet from both study sites exceeded the permissible limits for human consumption set by the World Health Organisation (0.05–0.15 mg kg−1) by approximately 2-fold in Laucala Bay and 3-fold in Ba River Delta. The levels of Hg and Cd in the two sample groups were determined to be below the instrumental limit of detection of 0.1 mg kg−1. Total biliary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were significantly higher in mullet from the Ba River Delta (χ2 = 21.14, d.f. = 1, p-value < 0.001), particularly for phenanthrene (χ2 = 24.678, d.f. = 1, p-value < 0.001). No statistical variations were observed in phase I biotransformation (ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase); however, phase II biotransformation activity (glutathione S-transferase) was found to be significantly higher in mullet from the Ba River Delta compared to Laucala Ba (χ2 = 35.85, d.f. = 1, p-value < 0.001). Similarly, no remarkable variations were observed in glutathione peroxidase activity, but glutathione reductase activity was significantly higher in mullet (χ2 = 5.05, d.f. = 1, p-value = 0.025) from Laucala Bay compared to Ba River Delta. Considering biological damages from oxidative stress, levels of lipid peroxidation were significantly higher (χ2= 4.10, d.f. = 1, p-value = 0.043) in mullet from Ba River Delta, including higher occurrences of micronuclei (χ2= 12.66, d.f. = 1, p-value = <0.001) and other abnormal erythrocyte nuclei (χ2= 26.67, d.f. = 2, p-value < 0.001), suggesting genotoxic damage. These findings 1) support the use of mullet as a suitable reference species for future ecotoxicology studies in Fiji, 2) are essential to take informed health and safety considerations regarding mullet consumption, 3) provide a baseline to compare future monitoring results and, 4) underscore the importance of incorporating biomonitoring practices in future environmental risk assessments.

Distribution of trace metals and metalloids in tissues of Eurasian Woodcock (Scolopax rusticola) from Southern Italy

Heavy metals and metalloids in the environment are recognised as a threat to the health of organism. Terrestrial birds are ideal subjects for the examination of these pollutants because of their high mobility and high intra- and interspecific variation in trophic levels. We examined the contents of 6 trace metals (Cd, Pb, Cr, Sb and V) and metalloids (As) in the liver, kidney, muscle, and feathers of woodcocks (Scolopax rusticola) from Southern Italy by a validated ICP-MS method. Significant differences in trace elements were found in all the tissues examined (p < 0.05). The highest Sb and Cr levels were found in feathers samples with mean values of 0.019 mg/Kg and 0.085 mg/Kg, respectively. High Pb levels were found in muscle, with 23 % of the samples exceeding the limits set by the European Union. Cd was predominantly found in the kidney samples (0.76 mg/Kg). Vanadium was the less abundant trace metal, showing the highest concentrations in the liver (0.028 ± 0.011 mg/Kg). Higher As levels were found in muscle (0.02 ± 0.015 mg/Kg). No significant differences between sex and age classes (juveniles vs. adults) were found, nor were there correlations between morphometric parameters and trace metal/metalloid contents. Principal Component Analysis determined differences in metal accumulation between tissues. Feathers were confirmed as useful indicators of metal contamination. The results of this work confirmed that the accumulation of toxic elements in the tissues of woodcocks is primarily influenced by ecological traits such as feeding habits and migration status. Statistical analysis of the tissues would seem to exclude important accumulation phenomena of Pb. The high levels found in the muscle could be due to lead ammunition. This work provides the first data on the accumulation of As, Cr, Sb, and V in woodcocks tissue, providing a more comprehensive insight into the potential impact of these pollutants on birds.

Upcycling process of mill scale waste into high-value ceramic products

Ceramic industry consumes large amounts of raw materials, including costly and environmental impact iron based-pigments. Steel rolling (SR) and wire drawing (WD) waste, rich in iron (>67 wt %), present a viable alternative. This study aims to develop high value stoneware pastes for tableware products by substituting commercial pigments with SR and WD. The influence of incorporation content (3, 5 and 10 wt %) and pre-treatments (sieving at 250, 150 and 63 μm, and grinding followed by sieving at 63 μm) on the samples properties was assessed including weight loss, firing shrinkage, apparent density, flexural resistance, and water absorption. The laboratory scale results revealed that darker hues, ranging from grey to reddish, were obtained when SR and WD were incorporated in the stoneware paste (beige colour). The smaller the particle size, more homogeneous is the developed colour, which is intensified as higher is the incorporation level.The prototypes (plates) were characterized in terms of thermal shock, edge impact, cracking and microwaves resistance, water absorption, and leaching behaviour, demonstrating that they met the industrial requirements. Thermal shock resistance was enhanced and the levels of leached Fe, Pb, Cd, Ni, Cr, Mo, V, Zn, and Cu, were below permissible limits (EU Ceramic Directive 84/500/EEC, Decree-Law n°152/2017, Decree-Law n°236/98 and WHO Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality) confirming their effective immobilization. Concluding, this work shows the viability of using mill scale waste as a valuable secondary raw material in stoneware pastes acting as a chromophore agent. Dark colours are obtained while preserving the product technical characteristics, promoting sustainable production and reducing landfilled waste.

Effectiveness of setarud (IMOD™) in attenuating gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in male rats

BackgroundGentamicin (GEN) can have serious adverse effects including nephrotoxicity. Setarud (IMOD™) is a new herbal drug with beneficial immune effects, obtained by mixing Tanacetum vulgare (tansy), Rosa canina and Urtica dioica (nettle) extracts as well as selenium, flavonoids and carotenes. This novel study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Setarud (IMOD™) in attenuating GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in male rats. Twenty-eight adult male Sprague Dawley rats (weighing 180–200 g) were randomly divided into four groups (7 rats in each group): Control, IMOD treated (20 mg/kg body weight), GEN treated (100 mg/kg body weight), and GEN + IMOD co-treated. Injections were done intraperitoneally for 12 days. Serum urea, creatinine (Cr), Cr clearance, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) level, and activities of antioxidant enzymes Peroxidase (POD), Catalase (CAT), and Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were measured by the colorimetric method. Volume density of proximal convoluted tubule (PCT), tubular necrosis, tubular cast formation, and leukocytic infiltration were evaluated histopathologically.ResultsIn the GEN group, there were significantly higher serum urea, Cr, and MDA levels with lower Cr clearance, GSH levels, POD, GPx and CAT activities, and PCT volume density with presence of tubular necrosis compared to the control and IMOD groups (P < 0.05). Treatment with IMOD significantly reduced the levels of urea, Cr and MDA, and increased Cr clearance and the activities of POD and CAT enzymes (P < 0.05). No significant differences in the activity of GSH and GPx were reported in the GEN + IMOD co-treated group compared to the GEN group. Moreover, IMOD significantly ameliorated PCT volume density and renal lesions caused by GEN.ConclusionIMOD (20 mg/kg body weight) can attenuate GEN-induced nephrotoxicity in rats by inhibition of oxidative stress or increasing the normal activity of antioxidant enzymes. Further studies are recommended on the effects of different doses of IMOD.

Spatial distribution and health risks assessment of heavy metals in e-waste dumping sites from Pakistan.

The present study focused on to determine the concentration and health risk of heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Zn, Cd, Hg, Cr) in e-waste contaminated soils collected from different provinces of Pakistan. Further, the impact of heavy metals on soil enzyme activities and microbial community was also investigated. The concentration (mg/kg) of Hg, Zn, Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, and Cr ranged between 0-0.258, 2.284-6.587, 3.005-40.72, 8.67-36.88, 12.05-35.03, 1.03-2.43, and33.13-60.05, respectively. The results revealed that Lahore site of Punjab province indicated more concentration of heavy metals as compared to other sites. The level of Cr at all sites whereas Hg at only two sites exceeds the World Health Organization standards (WHO) for soil. Soil enzyme activity exhibited dynamic trend among the sites. Maximum enzyme activity was observed for urease followed by phosphatase and catalase. Contamination factor (Cf), Pollution load index (PLI), and geo-accumulation index (Igeo) results showed that all the sites are highly contaminated with Cu, Cd, and Pb. Hazard index (HI) was less than 1 for children and adults suggesting non-carcinogenic health risk. Principle component analysis results depicted relation among Cr, Fr, catalase, and actinomycetes; Cd, OM, urease, and bacteria, and Pb, Cu, Zn, Hg, and phosphatase, suggesting soil enzymes and microbial community profiles were influenced by e-waste pollution. Therefore, there is a dire need to introduce sustainable e-waste recycling techniques as well as to make stringent e-waste management policies to reduce further environmental contamination.

Heavy Metal Concentrations in Water, Sediment, and Fish Species in Chashma Barrage, Indus River: A Comprehensive Health Risk Assessment.

The increasing levels of heavy metals in aquatic environments, driven by human activities, pose a critical threat to ecosystems' overall health and sustainability. This study investigates the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Cr, and Cd) in water, sediment, and three fish species (Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Cirrhinus mrigala) of different feeding zones within Chashma Barrage, located in the Mianwali district of Punjab, Pakistan, on the Indus River. A comprehensive analysis, including an assessment of associated human health risks, was conducted. Thirty samples from all three sites for each fish species, with an average body weight of 160 ± 32g, were collected from Chashma Barrage. Water quality parameters indicated suitability for fish growth and health. Heavy metal concentrations were determined using an atomic absorption spectrometer. Results indicated elevated levels of Cd, Cr, and Cu in sediment and Pb and Cd in water, surpassing WHO standard limits. Among the fish species, bottom feeder (C. mrigala) exhibited significantly (P < 0.05) higher heavy metal levels in its tissues (gills, liver, and muscle) compared to column feeder (L. rohita) and surface feeder (C. catla). Liver tissues across all species showed higher heavy metal bioaccumulation, followed by gills. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed strong correlations among heavy metals in sediment, gills, muscle, and water in every fish species. However, the vector direction suggests that Cr was not correlated with other heavy metals in the system, indicating a different source. The human health risk analysis revealed lower EDI, THQ, and HI values (< 1) for the fish species, indicating no adverse health effects for the exposed population. The study emphasizes the bioaccumulation differences among fish species, underscoring the higher heavy metal concentrations in bottom feeder fish within Chashma Barrage.

Assessment of heavy metal contamination in leafy vegetables: implications for public health and regulatory measures.

Heavy metal contamination in leafy vegetables poses significant health risks, highlighting the urgent need for stringent monitoring and intervention measures to ensure food safety and mitigate potential adverse effects on public health. This study investigates the levels of heavy metals, including cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu), in locally grown and commercially available leafy vegetables, comparing them to the safety limits established by WHO/FAO. The results revealed that levels of Cd, Cr, Ni, and Pb in the vegetables exceeded WHO/FAO limits, while Zn and Cu remained within permissible bounds. Marketed vegetables exhibited higher metal concentrations than those from nearby farms. For Cu (0.114-0.289 mg/kg) and Zn (0.005-0.574 mg/kg), the daily intake of metals (DIM) was below the dietary intake (DI) and upper limit (UL). Cd's DIM (0.031-0.062 mg/kg) remained below the UL but exceeded the DI. Marketed kale and mint surpassed both DI and UL limits for Ni, while local produce only exceeded the DI. All vegetables had DIM below the DI, except for mint and kale. For Pb, every vegetable exceeded DI limits, with market samples contributing significantly. Cr's DIM ranged from 0.028 to 1.335 mg/kg, for which no set maximum daily intake exists. The health risk index (HRI) values for Zn, Cd, Cu, Ni, and Pb suggested potential health risks associated with leafy greens, while Cr's HRI was below 1. The study underscores the need for stringent monitoring and intervention measures to mitigate the health risks posed by heavy metal contamination in leafy vegetables. These findings suggest that consuming these leafy greens may put consumers at considerable risk for health problems related to Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn exposure.

Exploration of leech therapy in treating gouty rats and its uric acid lowering mechanism

BackgroundGout is a hyperuricemia (HUA)-related inflammatory reaction in the joints. Leech therapy has been effective in the gout, but the exact mechanism is unclear. Objectives: In this study, an exploration of the therapeutic mechanism of leech therapy in HUA and gouty arthritis (GA) rats was done. Material and methodsHUA and GA construction utilizing sodium urate crystal, the potassium form of oxygen oxazine acid, and adenine. Serum and tissues were collected to measure uric acid (UA), creatinine (Cr), and urea nitrogen (UN). Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was executed to evaluate the levels of xanthine oxidase (XOD), interleukin-6 (IL-6)and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). The expression of glucose transporter 9 (GLUT9), organic anion transporter 3 (OAT3), adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-binding cassette efflux transporter G2 (ABCG2) and the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Toll-like Receptor 2 (TLR2) were assessed by Western blot and visualized in immunohistochemistry staining. ResultsLeech therapy reduces the levels of UA, Cr, and UN as well as the liver and serum levels of XOD activity, increasing the expressions of GLUT9, ABCG2, and OAT3 in the kidney. Meanwhile, it reduces joint swelling and lowers the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, TLR2, and NF-kB. ConclusionsLeech therapy regulates the metabolism of uric acid and treats gouty arthritis with an anti-inflammatory effect.

Bioaccumulation and Health Risk Assessment of Potentially Toxic Metals in Citrus Limetta & Citrus Sinensis Irrigated by Wastewater.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different irrigation sources on the levels of potentially toxic metals (Cd, Cr, Fe and Mn) in the edibles of citrus fruits (Citrus sinensis and Citrus limetta). The samples of fruit, soil and water were collected from two locations (fresh water irrigated-FW I and sewage water irrigated-SW II) within the city of Sargodha. The samples utilized in the study for metal analysis were prepared utilizing the wet acid digestion method. Metal determination was performed using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS). The potentially toxic metal values in the citrus samples ranged from 0.010 to 0.063, 0.015 to 0.293, 6.691 to 11.342 and 0.366 to 0.667mg/kg for Cd, Cr, Fe and Mn, respectively. Analysis of Citrus limetta and Citrus sinensis indicated that the highest concentration of Cr, Fe and Mn is observed at the sewage water irrigation site (SW-II), whilst the minimum levels of Cr, Fe and Mn were observed at the fresh water irrigation site (FW-I). The results show that the levels of these metals in soil and fruit samples meet the acceptable guidelines outlined by USEPA and WHO. It was found that the metal pollution constitutes a potential threat to human health due to the HRI values for Cd, Cr, and Fe being above 1, despite the DIM values being below 1. Regular monitoring of vegetables irrigated with wastewater is highly recommended in order to minimise health risks to individuals.

Serum Creatinine to Cystatin C as a Marker for Assessing Sarcopenia in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease – A Single-Center, Prospective, Observational Study

Abstract Background: Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can develop systemic complications that include skeletal muscle dysfunction among others. Reduction in muscle mass and function is called as sarcopenia. Diagnosing sarcopenia requires the measurement of walking speed, handgrip strength (HGS), and muscular mass. This is cumbersome to both the patient and the examiner. It requires the use of instruments such as the bio-impedance assay (BIA) and hand dynamometer. Serum cystatin-C (Cys C) and creatinine (Cr) are employed as determinants for kidney function. Cr levels decrease in accordance with low muscle mass, while Cys C remains unchanged. It is due to this relationship among creatinine, cystatin C and muscle mass, serum Cr/Cys C is being tested as a determinant for sarcopenia. Objective: The objective of this study is to study the correlation between Cr-to-Cys C ratio and markers for sarcopenia – appendicular skeletal muscle index (ASMI), handgrip strength, gait speed (GS), and severity of COPD. Materials and Methods: This prospective, observational study was carried out at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Southern India and included patients admitted to the departments of medicine and pulmonology. Patients diagnosed to have COPD were classified according to the GOLD guidelines. Serum Cr and Cys C were measured. Sarcopenia was assessed using BIA for the calculation of ASMI, hand dynamometer for HGS, and 6-m walk test for GS. Results: The results from our study are as follows. The mean for Cr/Cys C was 0.71. Cr/Cys C correlated significantly to ASMI, HGS, GS, and severity of COPD. Conclusion: Serum Cr-to-Cys C ratio can be effectively used for the measurement of sarcopenia in individuals with COPD.

FORECASTING THE MICRONUTRIENT CONTENTS IN FETUSES OF DOWN CALVERS

It is believed that the level of nutrition and maternal tissue depots determine the intrauterine supply of micronutrients necessary for the normal formation and development of fetuses in large cattle. Disturbances in micronutrient nutrition negatively affect the fetus's health and, after birth, limit its growth and predispose it to a range of somatic diseases. Therefore, forecasting and timely correction of micronutrient deficiencies in the fetuses of large cattle is important in veterinary science. In this study, the authors attempted for the first time to forecast the accumulation levels of Se, Cu, Zn, Fe, Cr, Sr, Mo, Co, Ni, As, and Mn in a fetus's body based on these micronutrient contents in the mother's hair 60 days before the expected calving. Thirty-five clinically healthy Simmental cows with singleton pregnancies were examined, and calves were obtained from them (18 males and 17 females). Hair samples obtained from the calves shortly after birth were analyzed for a retrospective assessment of the fetal micronutrient status. Micronutrients (Se, Cu, Zn, Fe, Cr, Sr, Mo, Co, Ni, As, and Mn) were quantitatively deter-mined in the hair samples using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (Nexion 300D, Perkin Elmer, USA). The distribution patterns of micronutrients in the "mother–fetus" system in large cattle were not related to the newborn’s gender. Dependencies be-tween the micronutrient contents in the mother's hair and in the newborn were described by first-order (for Sr), second-order (for Co and Mn), and third-order (for Se, Cu, Zn, Fe, and As) polynomials. For four micronutrients (Se, Cu, Fe, and Co), graphs and analytical expressions were prepared, allowing the prediction of their contents in the fetus's body based on maternal indicators with a level of statistical significance of P = 0.05. For the other four micronutrients (Zn, Sr, As, and Mn), this was achieved with a level of P = 0.10–0.15. No statistically significant dependencies were found between the contents in the mother's hair and the newborn for Mo, Cr, and Ni. Based on the predictions, optimal content ranges were determined for 8 of 11 investigated micronutrients (Se, Cu, Fe, Co, Zn, Sr, As, and Mn) in the cow's hair 60 days before the expected calving, ensuring an optimal level of their accumulation in the fetus's body.

Elucidating the Environmental and Health Risks of Trace Element Pollution in Red Sea Fish from Nuweiba City, Aqaba Gulf, Egypt.

Trace element bioaccumulation in marine organisms is a rising international issue due to possible health concerns for humans. Thirteen trace elements were analyzed in the sediment, water, and muscular tissue of Red Sea fish. Additionally, the average daily intake (EDI), the cancer risk (CR), the hazard index (HI), and the target hazard quotient (THQ) of those elements have been taken into consideration when evaluating any possible health concerns related to their consumption. All species presented quantifiable values in muscle for all the analyzed elements (arsenic (As), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), aluminum (Al), boron (B), iron (Fe), barium (Ba), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn), and mercury (Hg), except for Cd and Hg, being Fe and Zn the most accumulated elements in all species. Conversely, in water samples, most elements were undeleted except for aluminum, boron, iron, and zinc. All Red Sea fish, however, had concentrations of Zn, Ni, Fe, Cu, and Mn below the upper limit allowed, although most species had higher levels of As, Cr, and Pb (0.48 ± 0.83-5.10 ± 0.79, 1.97 ± 0.46-5.25 ± 0.67 and 2.12 ± 1.01-6.83 ± 0.93 µg/g, respectively).The studied Red Sea fish showed contamination degrees (CD) of Mn, Cu, Fe, Ni, Zn, and Pb were ≤ 1, indicating minimal contamination, with As and Cr showing higher contamination degrees. However, the pollution index values (MPI-elements) can be represented according to ascending order: Lethrinus ramak < Cephalopholis hemistiktos < Pagellus affinis < Trachurus japonicus < Cheilinus lunulatus < Siganus luridus < Parupeneus forsskali < Caesio suevica. The study found that edible tissues are safe for human consumption, with HI values for children and adults less than ten, indicating negligible non-cancer hazards. However, fish consumption presents health risks due to chromium, lead, and arsenic, with THQ values several times greater than 1, and CR-Ni, CR-Cr, and CR-As values exceeding the acceptable 10-4 value in all studied species. This study provides critical insights into trace element contamination in marine fish species, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and proactive measures to ensure safe marine fish consumption in the Aqaba Gulf.

The Effect of L-Carnitine on Critical Illnesses Such as Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Acute Kidney Injury (AKI), and Hyperammonemia (HA).

L-carnitine (LC) through diet is highly beneficial for critical patients. Studies have found that acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) can reduce cerebral edema and neurological complications in TBI patients. It significantly improves their neurobehavioral and neurocognitive functions. ALC has also been shown to have a neuroprotective effect in cases of global and focal cerebral ischemia. Moreover, it is an effective agent in reducing nephrotoxicity by suppressing downstream mitochondrial fragmentation. LC can reduce the severity of renal ischemia-reperfusion injury, renal cast formation, tubular necrosis, iron accumulation in the tubular epithelium, CK activity, urea levels, Cr levels, and MDA levels and restore the function of enzymes such as SOD, catalase, and GPx. LC can also be administered to patients with hyperammonemia (HA), as it can suppress ammonia levels. It is important to note, however, that LC levels are dysregulated in various conditions such as aging, cirrhosis, cardiomyopathy, malnutrition, sepsis, endocrine disorders, diabetes, trauma, starvation, obesity, and medication interactions. There is limited research on the effects of LC supplementation in critical illnesses such as TBI, AKI, and HA. This scarcity of studies highlights the need for further research in this area.

Heavy metal and trace element alterations in patients during a migraine attack.

The aim of the study was to determine the heavy metal and trace element (HMTE) profile in patients with migraine (PwM) and to compare it to that of healthy individuals without migraine. Migraine is a universal disease that affects more than 10% of the world's population; however, its pathophysiology is still obscure. A total of 100 participants were included in this prospective matched case-control study (50 PwM during acute attack and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls). The study was conducted in the university hospital in Yozgat, Turkey, where the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry system was used to measure the HMTE profile. The calibration curve was created with 11 points for heavy metals (arsenic [As], cadmium [Cd], cobalt [Co], lead [Pb], mercury [Hg], nickel [Ni], and tin [Sn]) and trace elements (antimony [Sb], chromium [Cr], copper [Cu], iron [Fe], magnesium [Mg], manganese [Mn], molybdenum [Mo], and zinc [Zn]). The median age was 27 (23-37) years, and the female/male ratio was 37/13 for both groups. The PwM group had significantly higher As, Co, Pb, and Ni levels among the heavy metals (p = 0.033, 0.017, 0.022, and 0.021, respectively). Also, PwM had significantly lower Cr, Mg, and Zn levels among the trace elements (p = 0.007, 0.024, and < 0.001, respectively). The only trace element that was elevated in the PwM group was Mn (p = 0.001). The PwM and control groups did not differ in terms of Cd, Sn, Sb, Cu, Fe, and Mo (p = 0.165, 0.997, 0.195, 0.408, 0.440, and 0.252, respectively). Some HMTE parameters are altered in PwM, which may provide additional insight into understanding migraine etiology.

Comparison of the corrosion behaviour of 10Cr and 17Cr Al added ODS steel in simulated reprocessing nitric acid medium

It is imperative to comprehend the corrosion behavior of different Cr containing Al-added ODS steel reactor clad materials in nuclear reprocessing simulating conditions, as high dissolution of clad material is not desirable. In this present work, the effect of varying HNO3 concentrations (3, 6, 11.5 M HNO3) and with oxidizing (Cr6+, Ce3+) and non-oxidizing (Fe3+) ions in 6 M HNO3 on 10Cr (10Cr-5Al-0.5Ti-0.5Y2O3-Fe) and 17Cr (16.78Cr-4.46Al-0.5Ti-0.45Y2O3-Fe) Al-ODS steels are investigated. The potentiodynamic anodic polarization studies revealed an ennoblement of corrosion potential by elevated cathodic current resulting from increased oxidizing conditions in HNO3 by concentration and oxidizing ions. Through various electrochemical techniques like open circuit potential (OCP), potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), the 17Cr Al-ODS steel exhibited improved corrosion resistance with lower Ecorr, increased passivation range (Epass range), lower corrosion current density (icorr) and increased charge transfer resistance (Rct). The SEM studies revealed variation in corrosion morphology as shallow corrosion cavities and deeper corrosion pits in 17Cr Al-ODS and 10Cr Al-ODS steel, respectively, at high oxidizing environment. The enhanced corrosion resistance of 17Cr Al-ODS is associated to the improved passivation with the high Cr level in the steel compared to 10Cr-ODS steel, which is corroborated by XPS analysis. New knowledge on nitric acid corrosion mechanism on the Cr in Al-ODS steels and the influences of oxidizing ions in reprocessing environments are described.

Integrating ICP-MS and Chemometrics for Profiling Inorganic Elements in Lianhua Qingwen Capsules and Evaluating Health Risk.

Lianhua Qingwen capsule (LHQWC) is composed of 13 traditional Chinese herbs. In this study, we employed inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) to quantify the concentrations of 26 inorganic elements (Na, Mg, Al, K, Ca, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Ag, Cd, Cs, Ba, Hg, Tl, Pb, U) across 22 batches of LHQWC. These results were complemented with Chemometrics analysis and health risk assessment of selected hazardous elements. Chemometric analysis revealed significant quality variations among the 22 batches of LHQWC, identifying U, Cs, Tl, Rb, Mn, As, Mg, and Al as characteristic elements influencing formulation consistency. Moreover, the health risk assessment indicated that while levels of Cu, As, Cd, Pb, Cr, and Hg in LHQWC were within acceptable limits, concerns arose regarding vanadium levels in certain batches. These findings underscore the necessity of comprehensive elemental analysis and health risk assessment to ensure the safety and quality of LHQWC. Our study provides valuable insights for both quality evaluation and regulatory considerations in the production of LHQWC and similar herbal formulations.

Surgical Treatment of a Perinephric Pseudocyst in a Five-Month-Old Female Cat

Introduction: A perinephric pseudocyst is characterized by the accumulation of fluid within fibrous sacs surrounding one or both kidneys, typically located in the sub-capsular or extracapsular areas. Histologically, these cysts lack an epithelial lining, thus earning the term "pseudocyst." This condition is uncommon in cats and is often associated with chronic kidney disease, particularly in older animals. Diagnosis relies heavily on imaging modalities, and prognosis varies based on the severity of renal impairment. The present case report aimed to detail the diagnosis and treatment of a rare perinephric pseudocyst in a 5-month-old female domestic short-haired cat. Case report: A left perinephric pseudocyst was diagnosed in a 5-month-old female domestic short-haired cat weighing 4.7 kg, presented to Guilan Pet Hospital, Guilan, Iran in January 2021 with a history of abdominal distention and anorexia. Physical examination revealed distension on the left side of the abdomen without any other significant findings. Complete blood count was within normal limits, while the biochemical profile showed elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and serum creatinine (Cr) levels at the upper limits of the reference range, along with elevated glucose and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels above the reference range. Plain radiography revealed a large mass on the left side of the abdomen, and ultrasonography confirmed the presence of anechoic fluid surrounding the left kidney. Subsequently, a unilateral nephrectomy was performed. Following surgery, the cat owner reported satisfaction with the outcome, and the cat showed no signs of illness during follow-up examinations over the next six months. Both complete blood count and biochemical profiles remained within normal ranges. Conclusion: While perinephric pseudocyst is rare in young cats, it should be considered in cases of abdominal distention and renomegaly. Utilizing imaging is crucial for diagnosis, and nephrectomy proves to be a reliable treatment, ensuring both owner satisfaction and positive results for the cat's health.

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

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

Quantification of SCC mechanisms in austenitic alloys under PWR primary water conditions

Abstract In order to achieve a full mechanistic understanding of stress corrosion cracking (SCC), the key operating mechanisms need to be identified but also quantified. In this study, we summarize and rationalize key findings from the last 15 years of high-resolution characterization of SCC in our group. A comprehensive characterization of a set of austenitic alloys with different Ni content and constant Cr level, tested under simulated pressurized water reactor (PWR) primary water conditions at various temperatures, has revealed evidence for at least two operating mechanisms: one diffusion-related and the other deformation-related. For their relevance to the nuclear industry, two additional alloys with increased Cr content were also studied (A800 and A690). Key precursors for SCC initiation and propagation are identified and their effect on alloy degradation discussed. A list of key materials’ properties that ensure low SCC susceptibility is proposed.