Levels Of Nickel Research Articles

Concentration and non-carcinogenic risk assessment of heavy metals in leafy vegetables among different farming practices

ABSTRACT Accumulation of heavy metals in vegetables grown using different farming methods, particularly when these metals poses significant health risks. This study investigates the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni) and antimony (Sb), in leafy vegetables (coriander, fenugreek, and mint) grown using three different farming methods, i.e. conventional, organic, and hydroponic farming methods. Non-carcinogenic health risks were assessed using the estimated metal daily intake (MDI) and target hazard quotient (HQ) for each metal. The cumulative non-carcinogenic hazard posed by exposure to these heavy metals was further evaluated by determining the health risk index (HI). The heavy metal concentrations in conventionally, organically and hydroponically grown vegetables ranged from 0.01 to 4.49 mg per kg, 0.01 to 1.95 mg per kg, and 0.01 to 3.56 mg per kg respectively, which revealed that leafy vegetables grown conventionally and hydroponically contain significantly higher concentrations of these heavy metals compared to those grown organically grown leafy vegetables. The HI value of coriander, fenugreek and mint leaves for all the studied metals range from 0.17 to 0.35 in organic, 0.94 to 1.96 in conventional and 0.73 to 1.49 in hydroponic leafy vegetables respectively, which suggested that the intake of conventionally and hydroponically grown can expose adults and children to adverse non-carcinogenic health effects. The results emphasise the importance of stringent monitoring of agricultural inputs and water quality across all farming methods to mitigate heavy metal contamination and ensure food safety.

Quantification and characterization of municipal solid waste at aler dumpsite, Lira City, Uganda: Assessing pollution levels and health risks

Managing municipal solid waste (MSW) in urban areas of developing countries is a significant challenge due to rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure. This study aims to quantify the MSW at Aler dumpsite in Lira City, Uganda, and assess the associated environmental and health risks. Our findings revealed a daily dumping rate of 7.38 tons, predominantly organic waste. Leachate from the site exceeded WHO limits for nutrients and heavy metals, with exceptionally high amounts of cadmium (Cd) found in soil (4.8 mg/kg) and vegetables. The water quality in nearby streams was poor, rendering it unfit for consumption due to elevated ion and nutrient levels. Health risk assessments indicated significant non-carcinogenic risks from heavy metal ingestion, with a hazard index (HI) of 4.6 for adults and 9.6 for children. While dermal exposure risks were generally low, children were at risk from stream 1 (HQderm = 1.165). Vegetable analysis revealed levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) above safe doses, posing significant non-carcinogenic risks. To address these issues, we recommend increasing public awareness to avoid consuming water and vegetables from areas around the dump site. Additionally, we suggest that the responsible authorities improve MSW management by constructing sanitary landfills to minimize water, soil, and plant pollution from landfill leachate.

Identification of Catabolic Genes Involved in the Degradation of Used Engine Lubricant- Contaminated Soil by Lysinibacillus odysseyi and Bacillus sp. (in: firmicutes)

This study aimed to identify selected catabolic genes in two indigenous hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria involved in the biodegradation of used engine lubricant-contaminated soil. Used engine lubricant-contaminated and uncontaminated soil samples were collected, and their physicochemical characteristics were evaluated. The results indicated that water holding capacity, potassium, nitrogen, and phosphate were higher in used lubricant-uncontaminated soil than in used lubricant-contaminated soil but vice versa for pH, total carbon, cation exchange, organic carbon, nickel, and lead levels. Culturable heterotrophic and hydrocarbon-utilizing bacterial counts were carried out on both Nutrient agar and Mineral Salt Medium (MSM) amended with used engine lubricant. The counts for heterotrophic bacteria (3.8×108±0.21 cfu/gm) were higher than that of hydrocarbon-utilizing bacteria (2.2×108±0.15 cfu/gm). All isolated bacteria (16) underwent screening for hydrocarbon degradation potential. Lysinibacillus odysseyi and Bacillus sp (in: firmicutes) emerged as the best oil degraders. Further screening of the chromosomal and plasmid DNA of the two bacteria was done to determine the presence and location of some selected catabolic genes (NidA, AlkB, NahH, NahAC, and Alma). The presence of Alkane monooxygenase (AlkB) and Naphthalene dioxygenase (NahAC) genes was confirmed in both isolates, while Pyrene dioxygenase (NidA) was confirmed in Bacillus sp. (in: firmicutes) only. The location of AlkB was confirmed to be both plasmid and chromosome, while NidA and NahAC genes were confirmed to be the plasmid. In conclusion, the soil contaminated with used engine lubricant contained indigenous bacteria, Lysinibacillus odysseyi, and Bacillus sp. (in: firmicutes), the two bacteria with the highest degradation potential, contained catabolic genes, monooxygenase (AlkB), NidA, and dioxygenase (NahAC). Therefore, they are effectively used as engine lubricant degraders, and the possibility of horizontal gene transfer can be used in important industrial applications and is recommended for the bioremediation of petroleum compounds.

The characteristics of V, Sc, Cr and Ni within the Cambrian terrigenous-carbonate deposits found in the Syuldyukar kimberlite field (Western Yakutia)

The investigation of the Syuldyukar kimberlite field, located within the Yakut diamond-bearing province, involved approximately 4,000 X-ray fluorescence (XFA) analyses and 150 inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP AES) analyses on the host sedimentary rocks of the Upper Cambrian Holomolokha formation in proximity to the kimberlite bodies. The results indicated a disruption in the correlation ratios when compared to background concentrations, while subclark levels of vanadium (V), scandium (Sc), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and other elements remained consistent. The elements were divided into three categories: typomorphic elements for kimberlites (Cr, Ni, Co), elements associated with carbonatites (barium (Ba), strontium (Sr), neodymium (Nd), zirconium (Zr)), and elements characteristic of basalts (V, Sc, zinc (Zn)). High positive correlation coefficients were established for the specified elements in the background concentrations. However, ICP analyses indicated significant decreases in the correlation between elements from different groups in the near-kimberlite space at the Syuldyukar site. X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies showed that in the compression areas, the correlation ratios of various elements were inconsistent when compared to the stretching areas. The analysis of the XRF and ICP data reveled that the average elemental concentrations in the background and near-tube space were nearly identical, except for some unusual hurricane values, with variations showing only slight changes. The positive correlation of several elements likely reflects background geological processes, including sedimentation in a marine basin and subsequent transformations such as hypergenesis, diagenesis, and catagenesis. The significant decrease in correlation coefficients, even with background concentrations remaining stable, is likely due to the redistribution of elements in the fluid resulting from phreatomagmatic explosions linked to the intrusion of kimberlites. Aqueous chloride fluids were observed to most actively redistribute elements in areas experiencing local tectonic compression. The identified changes in the correlation ratios of background elemental concentrations in sedimentary rocks containing kimberlite could act as a new indicator for locating hidden diamond-bearing kimberlites.

A circular economy approach for utilization of tannery fleshing hydrolysate and kitchen wastes into organic fertilizer through enzymatic decomposition

This study presents a sustainable method for converting tannery fleshing waste (FH) into organic fertilizer using enzymatic decomposition with crude protease. After extracting fat from the enzymatic hydrolysis, the enzyme-rich residue was mixed with dried kitchen waste (KW) and allowed to decompose for 45 days, producing nutrient-rich fertilizer. FT-IR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of important functional groups, including hydroxyl, aliphatic hydrocarbons, esters, and amide-I linkages. The organic fertilizers had higher nutrient content, with nitrogen (1.08-1.67%), phosphorus (0.78–0.98 %), potassium (0.1–0.76 %), and magnesium (239–259.5 ppm) which is higher than commercial fertilizers. FESEM-EDX analysis revealed a dense, porous structure with a high surface concentration of calcium, which enhances nutrient release in the soil. Dissolution tests showed that nutrients from the organic fertilizer were released gradually over 36 hours, whereas commercial NPK fertilizers released nutrients within 150 minutes in simulated soil-water conditions. Field trials with a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) demonstrated improved growth in Malabar spinach, particularly with fertilizer sample S-5, which had an optimal flesh to kitchen waste (FH to KW) ratio of 1:10. Although S-5 had a lower nitrogen content (1.08 %), it contained higher levels of phosphorus (0.98 %), potassium (0.765 %), and magnesium (259.5 ppm), contributing to enhanced plant growth. The organic fertilizer resulted in a shoot length of 38.8 ± 2.0 cm, root length of 16.33 cm, 31 ± 3 leaves, and 95.12 % dry matter of the plant. Heavy metal analysis of the plant confirmed that levels of chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) were within WHO safety limits. Phytotoxicity tests of the fertilizer also showed no negative impact on Malabar spinach seed germination.

Association Between Nickel Exposure and Metabolic Syndrome: Data from NHANES 2017-2018.

Previous studies have found a possible association between nickel and metabolic syndrome (MetS), but with conflicting results. No studies have determined whether nickel exposure increases the prevalence of MetS in the general U.S. population. Therefore, we used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to assess the association between urinary nickel and MetS. Since urinary nickel levels were presented as a skewed distribution, they were normalized using a logarithmic transformation. Weighted multivariate logistic models, restricted cubic spline, threshold effect analysis, and subgroup analyses were used to examine the association between urinary nickel concentration and the risk of MetS and its components. Based on data from 1577 participants, individuals in the second, third, and fourth quartiles of urinary nickel had an adjusted OR for MetS of 1.42 (95% CI: 0.88, 2.28), 2.00 (95% CI: 1.22, 3.28), and 1.68 (95% CI: 1.05, 2.70), respectively, representing an inverted "L"-shaped nonlinear dose-response relationship with an inflection point at 0.2141ng/L. Patients over the age of 40, males, less educated, and smokers are more susceptible to nickel exposure. In addition, there were significant associations between nickel and most components of the MetS, with the strongest to weakest correlations being high fasting glucose, reduced high-density lipoprotein, abdominal obesity, and elevated blood pressure; however, there was no significant correlation between nickel and hyperlipidemia. In conclusion, environmental nickel exposure increases the prevalence of MetS in U.S. adults, particularly in males over 40years of age, those with less education, and smokers.

Assessment of Essential Trace Elements Cu, Zn, Mn, and Ni in Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) from the Algerian Coast.

The aim of this study was to determine the levels of essential trace elements copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel in two size groups of mussels, Mytilus galloprovincialis, sampled from three sites along the Algerian coast with different levels of pollution. The results of this work are very interesting for determining the effect of mussel size on the variation of contaminant levels in environmental monitoring studies. Thirty individuals from 2 size groups, less than 4-cm and more than 4-cm shell length, were collected over 4 seasons at each site studied. The samples were dissected, and copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel were measured in the whole soft tissues by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The maximum concentrations of copper, zinc, manganese, and nickel expressed in mg/kg dry weight at the three sites were 54.01, 146.25, 20.69, and 8.85, respectively. A clear distribution pattern of the studied elements was observed in the two size classes. In fact, significantly higher concentrations (P < 0.05) were found in individuals with a shell length of less than 4 cm. Significantly, higher concentrations (P < 0.05) were found in individuals with a shell length of less than 4 cm due to their high filtration and low excretion activities compared to long individuals. In addition, metal pollution index (MPI) values were higher in small bivalve individuals. The trace element contents found in the mussel samples of the present study showed large spatial and temporal variations among the different sites studied, highlighting the typical exposure of marine sites to different marine pollutants. Notably, elevated concentrations of copper were observed in the port of Zemmouri, likely due to port activities. Conversely, the highest levels of manganese and nickel were recorded at Boudouaou El Bahri, potentially attributable to the use of fertilisers by agricultural activities. Some shellfish samples had exceeded the permissible concentration levels of copper and manganese, thereby posing a danger to bivalve consumers.

Associations between multiple metals exposure and cognitive function in the middle-aged and older adults from China: A cross-sectional study

The rapidly rising risk of cognitive decline is a serious challenge for the elderly. As the wide-distributed environmental chemicals, the effects of metals exposure on cognitive function have attracted much attention, but the results remain inclusive. This study aimed to investigate the roles of multiple metals co-exposure on cognition. We included a total of 6112 middle-aged and older participants, detected their plasma levels of 23 metals by using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and assessed their cognitive function by using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The results showed that increased plasma levels of iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) were positively associated with MMSE score, but the increased levels of nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb) were associated with decreased MMSE score (all FDR < 0.05). Subjects exposed to both high levels of Ni and Pb showed the lowest MMSE score [β (95% CI) = −0.310 (−0.519, −0.100)], suggesting that Ni and Pb had a synergistic toxic effect on cognitive function. In addition, the hazardous roles of Ni and Pb were mainly found among subjects with low plasma level of Zn, but were not significant among those with high-Zn level [Ni: β (95% CI) = −0.281 (−0.546, −0.015) vs. −0.146 (−0.351, 0.058); Pb: β (95% CI) = −0.410 (−0.651, −0.169) vs. −0.060 (−0.275, 0.155)], which suggested that Zn could attenuate the adverse effects of Pb and Ni on cognitive function. The cognitive function was gradually decreased among subjects with increased number of adverse exposures to the above four metals (Ptrend < 0.001). In conclusion, our findings revealed the individual, interactive, and combined effects of Fe, Ni, Pb, and Zn on cognitive function, which may provide new perspectives on cognitive protection, but further prospective cohort studies and biological researches are needed to validate these findings.

Accelerated Longitudinal Glycemic Changes in Relation to Urinary Toxic/Essential Metals and Metal Mixtures Among Mexican Americans Living in Starr County, Texas.

Metal and metalloid exposures (hereafter "metals") are associated with adverse health outcomes, including type 2 diabetes; however, previous studies were largely cross-sectional or underpowered. Furthermore, underserved racial and ethnic groups are underrepresented in environmental health research despite having higher rates of type 2 diabetes and a greater risk of metal exposures. Consequently, we evaluated continuous glycemic traits in relation to baseline urinary toxic metal, essential metal, and metal mixtures in a cohort of Mexican American adults. A total of 510 participants were selected based upon self-reported diabetes status and followed over 3 years. Urinary metals were assessed at baseline. Linear mixed-effects models were used to estimate per-month changes in hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, and postload glucose in relation to urinary metal levels. Multiple statistical approaches were used to assess the associations between glycemic traits and metal mixtures. After adjustment, higher urinary levels of arsenic, selenium, copper, molybdenum, nickel, and tin were associated with faster increases in measures of glycemia. The toxic metal mixture composed of arsenic, lead, cadmium, nickel, and tin was associated with faster increases in postload glucose. Using postload glucose criteria, highest versus lowest arsenic was predicted to accelerate conversion of normoglycemia to prediabetes and diabetes by 23 and 65 months, respectively. In this underrepresented, high-risk Mexican American population, exposure to toxic metals and alterations in essential metal homeostasis were associated with faster increases in glycemia over time that may accelerate type 2 diabetes development.

Analytical Investigation of Phthalates and Heavy Metals in Edible Ice from Vending Machines Connected to the Italian Water Supply.

Edible ice is often produced by special machines that can represent a source of significant chemical and microbiological contamination. In this work, the presence of phthalic acid esters (phthalates, PAEs) and heavy metals in ice cubes distributed by 77 vending machines installed in two different zones in southern Italy and fed by water from the public water supply was investigated. Solid-phase microextraction coupled to gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (SPME-GC/MS) was used to evaluate contamination with four PAEs, which were selected because they are commonly used in the production of food-contact plastics, while inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP/MS) was used to quantify the heavy metals. It was found that ice samples, especially those from one of the two considered zones (zone 2), exceeded the dibutyl phthalate (DBP) threshold limit value; some ice cubes from the other zone (zone 1) instead showed levels of both lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni) up to one order of magnitude higher than those observed in samples collected in zone 2 and higher than the maximum permitted values (European Directive n. 2184/2020). Since the water source connected to the ice vending machines was found to be free from significant levels of all considered target compounds and metals, the high levels of DBP, Ni, and Pb in ice cubes could be attributed to the components and/or to the state of repair of the ice vending machines themselves.

Trace element concentrations and associated human health risk assessment in canned tuna, city of Neyshabur, Iran

Seafood is considered a healthy and nutritious food, but the presence of toxic substances in such foods is a serious problem. The present study aimed to analyze the concentration of some toxic metals in seafood and evaluate their noncarcinogenic risks to consumers. Samples were digested according to the Association of Official Agricultural Chemists (AOAC) standard. The heavy metals concentration of Cd, Ni, Hg, Pb, and Sn in 30 canned tuna samples were determined using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The mean concentrations of Cd, Ni, Sn, Pb, and Hg were 0.7, 0.49, 1.03, 0.31, and 0.12 µg g− 1, respectively. Based on these results, the concentrations of Cd, Sn, and Hg in samples met the required standards. However, the concentrations of Ni and Pb in some samples were higher than the permissible limits. The mean values of Sn, Ni, Pb, Hg, and Cd in samples followed a decreasing order. Since the values of the health risk index for these samples were lower than the HI and HRI risk threshold (<1), they can be consumed without any problems arising. Highlights The metal concentration was measured in the four most popular brands of canned fish sold in Neyshabur City, Iran. Some samples exceeded the maximum permissible level of nickel (Ni) and lead (Pb). A significant correlation was observed between Ni concentration with Pb and Hg concentrations and Pb concentration with Cd concentration. The values of the health risk index (HRI) for noncarcinogenic health risks were lower than 1. The calculated Hazard index (HI) for adult and child consumers was less than 1. The HI values were greater for children than for adults.

The Evaluation of Selected Trace Elements in Blood, Serum and Blood Cells of Type 2 Diabetes Patients with and without Renal Disorder.

An appropriate diet is the basis for the treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). However, there are no strict recommendations regarding the content of micronutrients and their modifications in the presence of chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, we decided to investigate whether T2DM patients, including those with CKD, have different levels of chromium, nickel, cobalt, magnesium, and zinc in various blood elements compared to healthy individuals. We divided our subjects into three groups: the control group (individuals without T2DM and proper renal function), those with T2DM and proper renal function, and those with T2DM and GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2. We observed higher levels of chromium in all materials examined in patients with T2DM and impaired renal function. Both study groups found higher levels of nickel in samples of whole blood and red blood cells. Patients with T2DM and proper renal function had higher levels of serum manganese. Both study groups had lower levels of serum zinc. We observed higher levels of chromium in all materials examined in patients with T2DM and impaired renal function. Both study groups found higher levels of nickel in samples of whole blood and red blood cells. Patients with T2DM and proper renal function had higher levels of serum manganese. Both study groups had lower levels of serum zinc. In order to ensure effective care for patients with T2DM, it is necessary to improve the standard diet, including the content of micronutrients and their modification in patients with concomitant CKD.

Associations between blood nickel and lung function in young Chinese: An observational study combining epidemiology and metabolomics

Prior research has explored the relationship between occupational exposure to nickel and lung function. Nonetheless, there is limited research examining the correlation between blood nickel levels and lung function among young adults in the general population. The metabolomic changes associated with nickel exposure have not been well elucidated. On August 23, 2019, we enrolled 257 undergraduate participants from the Chinese Undergraduates Cohort to undergo measurements of blood nickel levels and lung function. The follow-up study was conducted in May 2021. A linear mixed-effects model was employed to assess the relationship between blood nickel levels and lung function. We also conducted stratified analyses by home address. In addition, in order to explore the biological mechanism of lung function damage caused by nickel exposure, we performed metabolomic analyses of baseline serum samples (N = 251). Both analysis of variance and mixed linear effect models were utilized to assess the impact of blood nickel exposure on metabolism. Our findings from cross-sectional and cohort analyses revealed a significant association between blood nickel levels and decreased forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) among young adults in the general population. Furthermore, we found stronger associations in urban areas. In metabolomics analysis, a total of nine metabolites were significantly changed under blood nickel exposure. The changed metabolites were mainly enriched in six pathways including carbohydrate, amino acid, and cofactor vitamin metabolism. These metabolic pathways involve inflammation and oxidative stress, indicating that high concentrations of nickel exposure can cause inflammation and oxidative stress by disrupting the above metabolism of the body.

Interplay of toxic metal levels and endoplasmic reticulum stress gene profile in type 2 diabetes mellitus

The increasing global prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) necessitates investigating its complex etiology. This study aimed to explore the relationship between exposure to toxic metals, expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress response (ERSR) genes, and various biochemical parameters, including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)/sensitivity (QUICKI), lipid profile, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in T2DM patients. T2DM patients and control subjects were matched for age, gender, and lifestyle factors. Biochemical parameters, toxic metal levels, and ERSR gene expression were analyzed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR), respectively. T2DM patients exhibit dysregulated lipid profiles and significantly higher fasting blood sugar (FBS), HbA1c, and insulin levels (all p < 0.0001). The insulin sensitivity was lower in T2DM patients (0.32 ± 0.09) than in the control group (0.35 ± 0.02, p = 0.02). Insulin resistance was significantly higher in the T2DM group (5.38 ± 3.15) than in the control group (1.98 ± 0.86, p = 0.0001). Nickel (4.75 ± 2.45 ppb, p < 0.0001) and arsenic (1.85 ± 1.78 ppb, p < 0.0001) levels were significantly elevated in T2DM patients. There was significant upregulation of ER stress genes: GRP78, CHOP, IRE1, ATF4, ATF6, and XBP1 (all p < 0.0001), while PERK was significantly down regulated (0.68-fold, p < 0.0001). Nickel levels were positively correlated with HOMA-IR (r = 0.49, p < 0.0001) and HbA1c (r = 0.35, p = 0.002). Arsenic levels were correlated with insulin (r = 0.34, p < 0.0001), insulin resistance (r = 0.51,p < 0.0001), HbA1c (r = 0.53, p < 0.0001), Arsenic levels (β = 0.37, p < 0.001), XBP1 (β = 0.36, p < 0.0001) independently associated with HbA1c.This study has revealed a significant association between arsenic exposure and the upregulation of XBP1 at the onset of T2DM. The overexpression of XBP1 and high levels of arsenic were independently associated with HbA1c and insulin resistance.

Effects of Processing on Nickel Content and its Relationship with Proximate Composition in dead fresh and canned tuna fish in Iran

Background: The presence of toxic metals in food can be a risk to food safety and public health. Methods: The Iranian canned tuna was analyzed for nickel level after wet digestion with acids using Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (GFAAS). Results: The average concentration of nickel in canned and dead fresh fish found 4.20 ppb and 1.64 ppb. A significant difference in nickel level was observed between canned and dead fresh fish samples in this study. Although the concentration of nickel per g in the fillet after processing was relatively low, but the total amount of nickel in the sample shown change (256.01%). The results in present study showed the protein content in the canned fish increased to 13.17%. The moisture content in the processed fish decreased to 8.80%. The fat content in the canned fish increased to 12.86%. Conclusion: Although the protein and moisture contents significantly increased and decreased respectively after processing, but none of these factors were related to the change in nickel concentration. It may be recommended to regularly monitor the concentration of nickel metal in aquatic food products, so that human health was not at risk.

A Systematic Review on Phytoremediation of Cadmium-Contaminated Soils: Identifying Hyperaccumulator Plants, Assessing Soil Quality, Analyzing Contamination Sources and Determining Health Risks

Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal found in soils due to various anthropogenic and natural sources, posing significant environmental and health risks. This systematic review aimed to identify plant species that can effectively accumulate cadmium, assess soil quality and contamination sources in cadmium- affected areas, and evaluate potential health risks within affected communities. Relevant studies and articles were methodically selected from databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, Research Gate, and Zendy, following Prisma Guidelines. The reviewed studies, both local and international, were published after 2000. The review found that several plant species can accumulate high levels of cadmium, with Athyrium wardii (Hook.) (Makino) achieving a 55% removal rate, Linum usitatissimum L. (Flax) achieving 32-49% removal, and T. caerulescens (Alpine Pennycress) achieving 19-36% removal. These plants showed the highest cadmium concentrations in their roots, followed by stems and leaves. Anthropogenic sources of cadmium in farm soil include agricultural activities and emissions from fuel combustion, with petrochemical industries significantly contributing through oil and gas flares, leading to elevated levels of nickel and cadmium. The review highlighted that higher cadmium accumulation poses substantial health risks, with risk concentrations higher in agricultural lands than in urban areas, implying a higher carcinogenic risk for people in these regions.

Evaluation of polypropylene CSF low-bind collection tubes for trace metal contamination.

Due to the ability of metal ions to cross the blood-brain barrier, there has been interest in analyzing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for trace element concentrations to investigate possible correlations with neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, Sarstedt polypropylene CSF collection tubes were analyzed to determine the contamination levels of aluminum, titanium, chromium, manganese, cobalt, nickel, molybdenum, gadolinium, vanadium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead, thallium, selenium, copper, zinc, and iron. Sarstedt polypropylene CSF collection tubes from 2 separate lots (n = 10 per lot) were filled with a 2 mL aliquot of a CSF pool with known element concentrations. After 24 hours of leaching at room temperature, all 18 elements were analyzed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results were subtracted from the initial pool concentration to determine contamination levels. No detectable contamination above the assay limit of detection was found in 11 analytes. Molybdenum and selenium contamination was measured in all tubes, and aluminum, titanium, manganese, thallium, and zinc had minimal levels of sporadic detectable contamination in 25% or fewer of the tubes tested. Sarstedt polypropylene CSF tubes are an acceptable collection tube for the analysis of most assessed metals in CSF.

Metals link to diabetes: Insights from a national cross‐sectional investigation

Diabetes and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) are significant global health concerns. However, the potential effects of mixed heavy metal exposure on these conditions remain underexplored. This study aims to investigate the combined effects of multiple metals on diabetes risk and explore the mediating role of Body Mass Index (BMI) in rural China. A cross-sectional analysis involved 2313 adults from 12 provinces in rural China. Urinary levels of zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were measured with an automatic biochemical analyzer. Logistic regression models and the Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) model were used to examine associations and interactions. Mediation analysis was performed to assess the role of BMI. The results of our study indicate that there is a significant association between urinary Zn (OR = 2.38, 95 % CI: 1.57, 3.60), Cr (OR = 1.24, 95 % CI: 1.31, 1.61), and Ni (OR = 1.51, 95 % CI: 1.05, 2.18) and the diabetes risk. The study revealed that exposure to Ni amplified the associations between Zn, Cr and diabetes/IFG risk. Additionally, BMI was identified as a significant mediator in the relationship between metal exposure, particularly Cr/Cd, and diabetes risk. These findings reveal a complex link between multiple metals, such as Zn, Cr, and Ni, and diabetes risk, and emphasize the potential opposite mediating effects of BMI in different metal-induced diabetes mechanisms. Further investigation of these mechanisms is warranted.

Challenges in using Electrocoagulation Process in Removal of Nickel Metal in Wastewater: a Literature Review

In recent years, the surge in nickel production, driven by the growing demand for electric vehicle batteries, has raised concerns regarding environmental consequences. The nickel mining and processing industries contribute to increased nickel levels in wastewater, presenting a serious threat to aquatic ecosystems and human health. This article emphasizes the urgency of developing effective technologies for treating nickel-contaminated wastewater. Electrocoagulation emerges as a promising method, providing high efficiency, minimal sludge production, and cost-effectiveness. The article critically and systematically reviews the potential of the electrocoagulation process in nickel removal from wastewater. In the review, we identify and analyze nearly 32 studies published from 2013 to 2023. We discuss contaminant removal mechanisms and analyze trends in the use of operational parameters. This article identifies the most commonly applied conditions: aluminum electrodes, inter-electrode spacing ≥ 1 cm, current density ≤ 10 mA/cm², initial pH 6 ≤ pH &lt; 11, electrolysis time &lt; 60 min, batch operation, and initial nickel concentration &gt; 50 mg/L. This comprehensive review serves as a foundational resource for advancing electrocoagulation technology in the removal of heavy metals from nickel wastewater.

Cumulative characteristics and ecological risk source analysis of soil potentially toxic elements in the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau.

To understand the soil toxic and hazardous elements content, pollution level, and ecological risk status in the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, we collected and analyzed 8273 sets of surface soil samples. Evaluations were conducted using the single-factor pollution index, geo-accumulation, pollution load, and potential ecological risk indices, and source identification correlation and principal component analysis. The results revealed that, compared with the background levels in China, the accumulation of soil arsenic, cadmium, nickel, and chromium was greater in the surface soil of the study area. Additionally, in comparison with Qinghai Province, more mercury accumulated in the surface soil of the study area and owing to the influence of anthropogenic activities. Benchmarking against soil environmental quality standards, the study area exhibited pollution control zones primarily dominated by arsenic and cadmium (3.9%). The spatial distribution revealed distinct zones: a ridge mountain type characterized by arsenic-cadmium-chromium-nickel, a Daban mountain type with solely cadmium presence, and a Longyangxia-Jianzha South type dominated by arsenic. Compared with the Qinghai Province soil background values, evaluations using the Pollution loading index, Geological Cumulative Index, and Potential Ecological Risk Index methods revealed varying degrees of potentially toxic element content exceedance. From an ecological risk perspective, the individual element with the highest potential ecological risk coefficients were mercury, followed by cadmium and arsenic; however, the region's overall ecological risk index was classified as low. Three distinct sources were identified: natural sources leading to high background levels of chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, and mercury; mixed natural and industrial/agricultural sources contributing to elevated cadmium levels; and human activity-related mercury enrichment. Based on the evaluation results, synergistic monitoring of soil and biota in naturally occurring risk zones is recommended to ensure the safety of agricultural and pastoral products. Additionally, ecological impact assessments and pollution source mitigation studies should be conducted in regions influenced by human activities to curb the further degradation of soil ecological quality.