Pb Levels Research Articles

Comprehensive Multidimensional Analysis of Metal(loid)-Containing Dust in Plastic Sports Facilities: Insights into the Potential Sources and Health Risks.

Dust released from widely established plastic sports courts and synthetic turf poses potential environmental and health risks. Herein, we systematically investigate the metal(loid) characteristics, potential sources, and health risks of 162 dust samples from 17 campuses in Beijing, using complementary analytical techniques. Bulk analysis revealed higher levels of Zn, Pb, Cu, Sb, Cd, and Cr than background values, suggesting excessive anthropogenic contamination. Pb and Cr in plastic basketball court and track dust and Zn and Sb in synthetic turf dust were higher than those in other sports facilities. Multielement single-particle inductively coupled plasma time-of-flight mass spectrometry (spICP-TOF-MS) revealed more Fe-, Al-, Si-, Ti-, and Pb-containing particles in the dust. At least 92% toxic Pb-containing particles were composed of multiple elements. The significant correlations between Pb and Cr contents on individual dust particles support their common potential source from inorganic pigments (crocoite, PbCrO4). Pb, Sb, As, and Cr in the dust pose higher health risks through intake. The risks were estimated to be approximately 3-5 times higher for children than for adults. Additionally, highly toxic Cr(VI) and As(III) species were observed in the sweat and gastric juice leachate of dust, highlighting severe threats of the metal(loid)s to human health.

Phytoremediation Potential of Melia azedarach and Ailanthus altissima for Pb, Zn, and Cu from Aqueous Solution

Growing concerns over metal pollution highlight the need for effective remediation strategies. This study evaluates the accumulation capacity and tolerance of Melia azedarach and Ailanthus altissima for trace elements (Pb, Zn, and Cu), aiming to assess their phytoremediation potential. Three-month-old seedlings of both species, grown from seeds collected at the Touissit mine site, were cultivated in perlite and irrigated with Hoagland nutrient solution. Plants were exposed to various concentrations of metal salts—Pb(NO3)2 (8, 40, and 80 mg.L−1), ZnSO4 (8, 40, and 80 mg.L−1), and CuSO4 (2, 10, and 20 mg.L−1)—over a 90-day period. Growth, biomass, metal accumulation, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents were measured. Results indicate that M. azedarach exhibited enhanced biomass under Pb exposure, suggesting notable tolerance and potential for phytoremediation. Conversely, A. altissima showed an initial increase in biomass at low Pb levels, followed by a significant reduction at higher concentrations. Both species demonstrated decreased biomass under Zn and Cu treatments, with varying degrees of sensitivity. Notably, A. altissima accumulated significant levels of Pb, Zn, and Cu, particularly in the roots, indicating high phytoremediation potential. While M. azedarach also accumulated metals, levels were comparatively lower. Both species maintained chlorophyll content under metal stress, indicating resilience. Overall, this hydroponic screening highlights the considerable capacities of M. azedarach and A. altissima for Pb, Zn, and Cu tolerance, with A. altissima showing particularly high potential for Pb phytostabilization.

Potential Sources and Contamination Levels of Pb and Ni in Surface Sediment of Lampung Bay, Indonesia

Potential Sources and Contamination Levels of Pb and Ni in Surface Sediment of Lampung Bay, Indonesia

INVESTIGATION OF PESTICIDE, ANTIBIOTIC, AND HEAVY METAL LEVELS IN HONEY PRODUCED IN BAYBURT AND THE UPPER ÇORUH VALLEY

This study investigates pesticide, antibiotic, and heavy metal levels in Bayburt and the Upper Çoruh Valley honey. Thirteen honey samples were collected from different apiaries managed by stationary and migratory beekeepers. These samples were analysed for heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb), antibiotics, pesticides, and chemical residues such as naphthalene. The results revealed that lead (Pb) levels exceeded international food safety standards in 2 honey samples, while pesticide residues were detected in 5 samples. Additionally, antibiotic residues were found in 6 samples, including sulfamethazine, tetracycline, and streptomycin. However, no naphthalene was detected in any of the samples. These findings highlight the importance of stricter regulations and monitoring systems to control chemical use in beekeeping practices. Enhancing awareness among beekeepers regarding the risks associated with pesticide and antibiotic use is crucial for improving honey quality and ensuring the health of beekeepers and consumers. The adoption of safer practices and adherence to guidelines are necessary to mitigate these health hazards.

Sustainable Microbial Lead Removal Using an Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket Reactor: Advancing Eco-Friendly Solutions for Heavy Metal Remediation

This study investigates the use of a UASB (Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket) reactor operating under continuous anoxic conditions to remediate Pb(II) contamination in aqueous environments. Two experimental runs were conducted to evaluate the microbiome’s performance in removing Pb(II) at varying concentrations, ranging from 80 to 2000 ppm, while monitoring nitrate and Pb(II) levels. Metabarcoding of the 16S rRNA gene was done to understand the detoxification mechanisms utilised by the microbial community in Pb(II) removal. The system demonstrated high robustness, achieving up to 99% Pb(II) removal efficiency with sufficient nutrient availability, particularly at 15 g/L yeast extract (YE), compared to lower nutrient levels of 5 g/L YE. Denitrification was identified as the dominant mechanism of detoxification, supported by additional processes such as biosorption, sulfur-reducing bacterial activity, bioprecipitation, and bioremoval. Analysis of the precipitate recovered from the reactor indicated the presence of elemental lead, PbS, and PbO, highlighting the potential for lead recovery. These findings suggest that the system not only effectively removes Pb(II) from contaminated environments but also offers a sustainable pathway for lead recovery through smelting, making it a promising circular bioremediation strategy. The results indicate that this biological approach is a viable solution for lead pollution and recovery in industrial applications.

Maternal hair lead and cytokine pro-inflammatory effects in preterm birth

This case-control study analyzed the lead (Pb), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) levels in pregnant women with preterm birth (PTB) in Central Java, Indonesia. Hair samples from 72 pregnant women were collected non-invasively. The prenatal exposure to Pb was determined with the total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) method. Serum IL-6 and TNF-α were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). The Pb concentration in hair was slightly higher in women with PTB than those without PTB; however, this difference was not statistically significant. An elevated hair Pb level was not associated with increased PTB risk (OR 24.69, 95% CI 0.93–653.82, p>0.05). A serum TNF-α level ≥27 pg/ml, a serum IL-6 level ≥9 pg/ml, and the spouse’s smoking frequency were significantly associated with increased PTB risk (TNF-α OR 42.25, 95% CI 5.26–339.61; IL-6 OR 22.33, 95% CI 3.12–158.54; spouse’s smoking frequency OR 1.28, 95% CI 1.09–1.5), while the maternal hemoglobin concentration significantly decreased PTB risk (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.2–0.927). This study demonstrates that maternal hair Pb concentration has no significant relationship with PTB. Serum TNF-α, IL-6, and the spouse’s smoking frequency potentially increased PTB risk, while the maternal hemoglobin level is a protective factor.

Health risk assessment of lead and cadmium in milk-based products of Iran

The primary objective of this study is to assess the health risks associated with lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) contamination in dairy products consumed in Iran. To conduct the research, 132 samples of cow milk, yogurt, cream, and doogh (a traditional Iranian beverage) were collected from both traditional and industrial livestock farms in Zanjan, Iran. The samples were microwave-digested, and an atomic absorption spectrophotometer equipped with a graphite furnace was used to determine toxic metals contents. The findings of the study revealed that the average concentrations of Pb in milk and dairy product exceeded the permitted limits. The mean ± se levels of Pb and Cd in milk, yogurt, doogh, and cream were 92.64 ± 8.73, 52.19 ± 8.42, 78.80 ± 12.89, 106.07 ± 8.94 μg/kg and 2.34 ± 0.22, 1.21 ± 0.20, 2.59 ± 0.57, 5.61 ± 0.63 μg/kg, respectively. For the purpose of exposure assessment, the chronic daily intake (CDI) was utilized, while the Hazard Quotient (HQ) and Total Hazard Quotient (THQ) were employed for non-carcinogenic risk assessment. Additionally, the Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) was utilized for carcinogenic risk assessment. The results revealed that the highest exposure to Pb and Cd in the P 95th of CDI were observed in milk, followed by yogurt, doogh, and cream. According to our finding, the HQ and THQ values for potentially toxic elements (PTEs) related to the consumption of dairy products in the P 95th of cumulative probability were below 1. The results indicate that the ILCR of Cd (P 95th) due to the consumption of dairy products falls within the acceptable risk range (10−4 to 10−6). While our findings indicate levels of Cd in dairy products, it is important to note that there are currently no established standards for permissible Cd concentrations in Iran. Therefore, further research and regulatory frameworks are needed to ensure public safety.

Pattern Recognition of Trace Element vs Heavy Elements in Patients with Membranous Nephropathy.

The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of trace elements and heavy elements in the pattern recognition in patients with membranous nephropathy. Elements such as V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Sr, Cd, Cs, Ba, Pb, and Hg were quantified by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry in blood and urine of 14 patients with membranous nephropathy, 14 patients with IgA nephropathy, and 13 normal controls. The blood levels of Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Cd, and Ba and the urine levels of Co, Ni, Cu, and Zn in patients with membranous nephropathy were significantly lower than those in normal controls (P < 0.05), while the blood levels of Se, Pb, and Hg and the urine level of Hg were higher (P < 0.05). The blood levels of V, Cr, Co, Cu, As, Sr, Cd, and Ba and the urine levels of Sr and Ba in the patients with membranous nephropathy were significantly lower than those in the IgA nephropathy group (P < 0.05), while the blood and the urine levels of Pb and Hg were higher (P < 0.05). Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) were used to analyze the results of elements. The results showed that Co, Zn, Hg, and Ba in the blood and Co and Ni in urine significantly contributed to the discriminant model of membranous nephropathy and normal controls; Sr in the blood and Pb and Sr in urine significantly contributed to the discriminant model of membranous nephropathy and IgA nephropathy.

Pb-Cd in Maternal Blood and Affecting Factors

The exposure to Pb-Cd during pregnancy has negative effects on both the mother and the baby. Karabuk province, which is the center of the iron and steel industry, is a region with a high risk of Pb-Cd exposure. This study was designed to determine the levels of lead and cadmium in maternal blood samples and the factors influencing them. After the ethical committee approval from Karabük Training and Research Hospital Ethical Committee, descriptive and analytical analyses were started on the blood samples collected from 100 pregnant women in their third trimester with the childbirth between 01.09.2018-01.09.2019 in Karabük Training and Research Hospital Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic. The study, conducted in a descriptive and analytical manner, utilized a 32-question survey form prepared by the researchers and venous blood samples collected simultaneously. For the Pb-Cd analysis, a 3 ml venous blood sample was obtained from pregnant women using a sterile syringe into hemogram tubes with purple caps containing Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). The collected samples were preserved in a -20°C refrigerator immediately after labeling and were kept until they were taken for analysis. Maternal blood samples were analyzed using the Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) Graphite System method. According to the analysis results, the mean maternal blood Pb levels of pregnant women with an average age of 28.3±5.37 were found to be 0.89±0.22 μg/dl, and Cd levels were 0.26±0.07 μg/dl. Maternal blood Pb-Cd levels were compared each other according to five parameters which are socio-demographic aspect, obstetrical variables, location characteristics, dietary history, and cosmetic use. Based on these parameters any statistically significant results were obtained. However, blood lead levels were significantly different in pregnant women who smoked (p=0.001) and were exposed to secondhand smoke (p&amp;lt;0.05) compared to non-smokers and those not exposed to secondhand smoke. On the other hand, there was no significant difference in blood Cd levels with respect to exposure to secondhand smoke (p&amp;gt;0.05). Since exposure to Pb-Cd is not a short-term exposure, but rather long-term exposure to low concentrations in daily life, and because their half-lives are long-term. These results obtained from this study can shed light on future studies which aimed to determine the effect of long- term exposure of heavy metals on pregnant women and infants.

Peculiarities of Plant Mineral Composition in Semi-Desert Conditions

Plant–soil interactions in semi-desert conditions elicit the development of plant-specific adaptation strategies, including selective accumulation of macro- and microelements. Using an ICP-MS analysis of 12 plant species belonging to Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Poaceae, Ephedraceae, Amarantaceae, and Lamiaceae families of the Baskunchak Nature Reserve, remarkable species differences in accumulation of 22 macro- and microelements were recorded. The most common Artemisia species and Poaceae representatives belong to two different groups of plants with high content of Na, K, Zn, Cu, V and high antioxidant status and low Si typical for the former group and the opposite characteristics for the latter one. The mentioned phenomenon indicates two diverse powerful adaptation mechanisms based on the antioxidant defense and Si protection, respectively. The high frequency of remarkable levels of Se in plants with BCF exceeding 1 (Glycyrrhiza aspera, Phlomis pungens, Tanacetum nullifolium, Helichrysum nogaicum, and Jurinea ewersmannii), Zn in all species except Poa angustifolia, and Cu in the Asteraceae plants Phlomis pungens and Krascheninnikovia ceratoides suggests the significance of these elements in plant tolerance to environmental stresses. Plant–soil positive correlations were recorded for Sr (r = 0.866; p &lt; 0.001); plant Sr, Fe, Co, Pb levels and soil salinity (r = 0.763, p &lt; 0.001; r = 0.606, p &lt; 0.03; r = 0.627, p &lt; 0.02; r = 0.548, p &lt; 0.05, respectively); and Cr only for Asteraceae species (r = 0.986, p &lt; 0.001). The results obtained in this research may be used in plant adaptability evaluation in conditions of environmental stress.

Heavy metal mitigation in soil and plants using organic and inorganic amendments alone and in combination

The use of organic and inorganic amendments like stilbite-zeolite (SZ) and nano-biochar (NBC) in phytoremediation holds immense promise, long-term stability, and its effectiveness necessitate comprehensive research. This study aimed to evaluate their potential in mitigating heavy metal contamination in soil and plants. Our results shows that SZ and NBC treatments significantly impacted heavy metal levels, notably reducing arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg) accumulation in plant tissues. The treatments exhibited varying degrees of effectiveness in reducing heavy metal levels. Notably, SZ2 treatment decreased As and Pb levels by 33.33% and 20%, respectively, while NBC3 achieved even greater reductions, lowering As by 53.33% and Pb by 30%. Moreover, SZ2, SZ5, and NBC3 treatments halved Cd levels, showcasing their potential in mitigating heavy metal contamination in rice. However Hg levels remained largely unaffected, except for NBC1, which unexpectedly doubled its concentration. In soil, SZ2 treatment significantly reduced metal concentrations, particularly Cd (66.8% reduction) and Hg (70.7% reduction). Conversely, SZ3 and SZ7 treatments increased metal concentrations, suggesting that certain zeolite applications might enhance metal bioavailability. NBC treatments showed varying effectiveness, with NBC3 being the most effective, substantially reducing As, Pb, and Cd levels.

Lead (Pb) Exposure on Hemoglobin Levels and Decreasing Lung Function of Fuel Station Workers Banjarmasin

Introdution:Exposure to airborne pollutants such as lead (Pb) can cause health problems. Fuel stations are one of the places with a high risk of Pb exposure sourced from fuel or motor vehicle exhaust emissions. This research aims to know the effect of Pb exposure on hemoglobin levels and lung function in fuel station workers. Methods: This study was observational, analytical, and cross-sectional on 40 fuel station workers in South Banjarmasin District. Urinary Pb measurement was carried out by spectrophotometry, then the relationship to peripheral blood hemoglobin (Hb) levels and lung function was analyzed based on FEV1 (%), FVC (%), and FEV1/FVC ratio with a simple linear regression test. The data met the classical assumptions of normality, heteroscedasticity, and with no autocorrelation. If abnormal distribution was found, data transformation was carried out. Results: Study obtained urinary Pb levels below the normal threshold of 0.0356±0.0074 ppm. Respectively, urinary Pb levels did not have a significant effect on Hb levels (mean±SD:14.39±1.41, adjusted R2:6.2%, p=0.067), FEV1 (94.15±6.93, 5.8%, p=0.074) and FVC (89.68±6.24, 0.5%, p=0.380). However, urinary Pb significantly correlated with decreasing the FEV1/FVC ratio (90.87±3.36, 10%, p=0.026) with the equation y=96.550159.454x even without any obstruction value. Conclusion: This study showed that urinary Pb levels were normal. An increase in urinary Pb levels has a significant effect on decreasing the FEV1/FVC ratio. Prevention to reduce the health impacts of Pb needs to be taken. More research on at-risk populations with longer years of service needs to be done

Health Effects of Heavy Metal Exposure Among E-waste Workers and Community-dwelling Adults in Thailand: A Cross-sectional Study.

Global concern is increasing about the health effects of electronic waste (e-waste). This study examines the health impacts of heavy metal (HM) exposure among e-waste workers (EWWs) and community-dwelling adults (CDAs) in Northeastern Thailand and identifies factors associated with adverse health outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted of 164 EWWs and 164 CDAs. A survey was employed to collect data on participant characteristics, symptoms, anxiety, depression, and sleep quality. Urine samples were analyzed for lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) levels using atomic absorption spectrometry. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors impacting health. Across all participants, urinary Pb and Cd levels ranged from 5.30 to 29.50 µg/g creatinine and from 0.60 to 4.00 µg/g creatinine, respectively. The most frequently reported health issues pertained to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) at 38.70%, central nervous system (CNS) issues at 36.60%, and skin disorders at 31.10%. Multivariable analysis indicated that the presence of MSDs was significantly associated with exposure to Pb and Cd. Poor sleep quality (PSQ) was significantly linked to CNS problems, while body mass index was significantly related to skin disorders. Factors including primary education level or below, smoking, cleaning the house more than 3 times weekly, and PSQ were significantly linked to depression. Anxiety was significantly associated with PSQ. Environmental exposure to Pb and Cd can have adverse health impacts in the form of MSDs. Depression and anxiety are common conditions among CDAs. Public health officials should monitor HM exposure and mental health within the community.

Effects of heavy metals on bioremediation of diesel by Antarctic microalga Tritostichococcus sp.

Hydrocarbon spillage has long been a concern in Antarctica as it can result in detrimental effects on Antarctic biota and ecosystems. Bioremediation, using microorganisms such as microalgae, represents one of the most effective and least damaging methods developed to remove pollutants from the environment. However, the effectiveness of bioremediation in eliminating diesel can be influenced by co-contamination of the spill area by heavy metal ions, as is often the case. This study assessed the effects of zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and cadmium (Cd) on the bioremediation of diesel by a freshwater Antarctic microalga isolated from soil, Tritostichococcus sp. WCY_AQ5_1 (GenBank accession number: OQ225631), under laboratory conditions. Toxicity testing of heavy metals (1 to 16 ppm) on Tritostichococcus sp. showed that microalgal specific growth rates and pigment ratios remained constant up till 8 ppm for all four heavy metals, an implication of toxicity at 16 ppm. In subsequent experiments, where diesel was introduced, sub-lethal Zn and Cd ion concentrations (2 to 10 ppm) did not significantly affect the biodegradation ability of Tritostichococcus sp. In contrast, sub-lethal Pb and Cu levels led to reduced diesel biodegradation at higher concentrations (8 to 10 ppm) by approximately 33% and 55%, respectively. Intriguingly, patterns of microalgal growth were not correlated with those of biodegradation efficiency as a prominent increase in growth of Zn-exposed cultures was observed at 8 and 10 ppm, and growth of Cu-exposed cultures peaked at 6 ppm. On the other hand, microalgal growth in Pb and Cd-exposed cultures (2 to 10 ppm) generally remained the same as control (0 ppm).

Evaluation of a Method for the Quantification of Cadmium, Lead, and Zinc in Craft Beers Manufactured in Quito, Ecuador.

The brewing process of craft beer can introduce contamination by heavy metals such as Cd, Pb, and Zn from various sources. Cadmium and lead metals are particularly worrisome because of their harmful effects on human health. This study aimed to evaluate a method for quantifying the levels of Cd, Pb, and Zn in craft beer brands sold in the northern region of the Metropolitan District of Quito, Ecuador, using atomic absorption spectroscopy. For confidentiality, the brands were anonymized as Brands A to I. Standard addition curves were employed for metal quantification, with repeatability assessed via the coefficient of variation (CV%) and accuracy determined by recovery (R%). The Cd content in Brands B-G and I was below the threshold established by the Mercosur Resolution Nº 12/11. Additionally, Brands A and D-H complied with the Ecuadorian INEN 2262 standard for maximum Pb concentration in beer. All samples showed Zn levels substantially below the maximum levels permitted by Ecuadorian regulations. Brands A, B, C, and H exhibited the highest concentrations of Cd and Pb.

Quantification of toxic metals contamination and health risk assessment in processed and raw dairy products in Abbottabad city

Toxic metal contamination (such as Cd, Cr and Pb) in processed and raw dairy products is an important environmental and public health concern. The accumulation of these metals in dairy products causes health threats to consumers. Various anthropogenic and natural activities discharge metals into the soil, where they are consumed by plants and become a part of the food chain. In addition, there is a considerable risk of metal contamination in dairy products during various business processes. The present study was carried out to determine the quantities of toxic metals found in dairy product samples. These dairy products have been classified into two groups: raw dairy products, which were self-extracted from cows and buffaloes employing adequate hygiene, and processed dairy products, which were bought from the Abbottabad market. These samples were generated using a double acid digestion approach, and toxic metals were quantified using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). For health risk assessment, the Health Risk Index (HRI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), and the Target Cancer Risk (TCR) indices were used. The relative levels of toxic metals in processed dairy product samples were as follows: Cd levels were highest in cheese (0.106±0.006 mg/kg), followed by butter and desi ghee (0.089±0.066 and 0.074±0.043 mg/kg, respectively). Cr concentrations were maximum in flavored milk (0.471± 0.290 mg/kg) and desi ghee (0.371± 0.01 mg/kg). Pb levels found in cheese were higher (1.753±0.194 mg/kg), then desi ghee and butter (1.025±0.01 and 0.652±0.397 mg/kg, respectively). Toxic metals in raw dairy products were measured in cow samples in the order of Cr ≥ Pb ≥ Cd. In a similar manner for buffalo samples, toxic metals followed the same trend as in cow samples. Though the concentrations of targeted metals in both raw and processed dairy product samples exceeded the threshold levels, the estimated levels of THQ and TCR were within the permissible range. However, our findings suggest that these metals in dairy products should be assessed on a continuous basis, as anthropogenic activities are contributing substantially to metal contamination.

Evaluating the Effects of Heavy Metals on Seminal Fluid Anti Oxidants Status and Semen Parameters among Males with Infertility at Tertiary Health Centre in Nigeria

Abstract Introduction: There are evidences of a reduction in male fertility potential globally. This, coupled with the limitation of the gold standard investigative tool of male infertility, has become necessary that focus should be on elucidating the aetiopathogenic causes of male fertility. This includes the impact of environmental toxic products such as levels of heavy metals that have been proposed to impact both the sperm quality and seminal antioxidant status. The study assessed how the seminal concentrations of specific heavy metals such as cadmium, lead and Iron affect the seminal fluid analysis (SFA) parameters and seminal antioxidant status of males exhibiting abnormal parameters of sperm, analysing infertile male patients consecutively in a cross-sectional manner, with at least one abnormal SFA parameter, at a tertiary health centre. Materials and Methods: One hundred and thirty consenting males who have one or several anomalies with sperm characteristics were selected as subjects. Semen samples were collected, processed and centrifuged. The supernatants were analysed for the heavy metals using Buck Scientific 210/211VGP Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometers 220GF Graphite Furnace and 220AS Autosampler and seminal Vitamins C and E, using spectrophotometric method and glutathione peroxidase, whereas catalase was analysed using ELISA method. Results: Subjects’ seminal levels of Cd, Fe and Pb were notably greater than those of controls, respectively. In addition, individuals’ levels of seminal antioxidants were noticeably lower than controls. Seminal antioxidant status and Seminal Cd, Fe and Pb were positive and negative significantly correlated with sperm count and active motility, respectively. Conclusion: Laboratory quantification of the seminal concentrations of these heavy metals in the evaluation of males with infertility, especially those still regarded as idiopathic, because of limitations of investigative tools and biomarkers, will be of clinical utility, in both the management and prevention of sperm quality deterioration.

Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Trace Element Deposition in Urban Thessaloniki: A Syntrichia Moss Biomonitoring Study

Urban air pollution, especially from heavy metal (HM) contamination, poses significant risks to human health and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the spatial and temporal distribution of HM contamination in Thessaloniki, Greece, using Syntrichia moss as a bioindicator to inform urban environmental management strategies. Moss samples were collected from 16 locations representing diverse urban activity zones (motorway, industrial, city center, airport) in March, May, and July 2024. The concentrations of 12 HMs (Al, Sb, As, Ba, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Ni, V, and Zn) were analyzed using ICP-MS, and the contamination factors were calculated relative to controlled moss samples. The results revealed significant spatial variation, with elevated levels of As, Cd, Cr, Pb, and Zn, particularly in high-traffic and industrial zones, exceeding the background levels by up to severe and extreme contamination categories. Temporal trends showed decreases in Al, Ba, and Ni from March to July 2024, while Cr and Cu increased, suggesting seasonally varying sources. Multivariate analyses further distinguished the contamination patterns, implicating traffic and industrial activities as key contributors. Syntrichia effectively captures HM contamination variability, demonstrating its value as a cost-effective bioindicator. These findings provide critical data that can guide urban planners in developing targeted pollution mitigation strategies, ensuring compliance with the European Green Deal’s Zero Pollution Action Plan.

Characterization of the Elemental Composition of Aerosols Emitted in the Dry Season of the Pantanal Wetland, Brazil

The Brazilian Pantanal region experiences intense biomass burning during the dry season, releasing large quantities of gasses and particles into the atmosphere, which have serious implications on both the climate system and public health. Understanding the dynamics of these emissions is crucial for mitigating the impact on the ecosystem, its functioning, and potential anthropogenic disturbances. This study focused on analyzing emissions in the northern Pantanal during the 2022 drought. Concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5), black carbon (BC), and 25 chemical elements were measured using gravimetry, reflectance analysis, and X-Ray fluorescence, respectively, from samples collected between August and October 2022. The average concentrations of PM2.5 and BC increased approximately 4-fold and 2.5-fold, respectively, compared to averages from a decade ago. Significant increases were also observed in elements such as sulfur (S), potassium (K), iron (Fe), and silicon (Si). The maximum concentrations were comparable to values typical of the southern Amazon, a region known for high deforestation rates and land use changes. Elemental analysis revealed substantial shifts in concentrations, primarily associated with biomass burning (BB) and soil suspension. Additionally, enrichment factor (Ef) analysis showed that lead (Pb) levels, correlated with human activities, were 200 times higher than those found under clean atmospheric conditions.

Health risks of potentially toxic elements in Cyprinus carpio in the karst plateau lake, China.

Elevated potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in aquatic products could threaten the health of ordinary consumers. Levels of chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg) in Cyprinus carpio in karst plateau freshwater Lake, Caohai Lake, China were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and evaluated using a risk method with Monte Carlo simulation. Levelsof Cr, As, Pb, and Hg in muscle tissue were substantially lower than those in viscera. The maximum concentration of muscle-bound Cr, As, Pb, and Hg were less than the standard references set by Chinese Food Codex (GB 2762-2022). The levels of Cr, As, Pb, and Hg in muscle tissue were independent of fish weight and length. The hazard index of all investigated elements in muscle tissue wereless than one for adults and children, whereas the target hazard quotients of muscle-bound PTEs for children were higher than those for adults. Results indicated that exposure duration was the largest contributor to the hazard quotient of Cr, As, and Hg, whereas the concentration of Pb in muscle was the most sensitive factor affecting the variation in hazard quotient of Pb. There is no risk related to the normal intake of muscle-bound Cr, Pb, As and Hg with the consumption of Cyprinus carpio. A better definition of the probability distribution for exposure duration and PTEs concentration could result in a more accurate hazard quotient. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.