Toxic Constituents Research Articles

EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT OF HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL WASTE IN RURAL AREAS OF PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY

The proper management and safe disposal of increasing amount of solid wastes has been recognized as a global problem of the recent age. Toxic and hazardous constituents present in the solid wastes, make this problem even more critical and challenging. Exposure of such solid waste, when not managed properly significantly effects the local environment and public health. For example, bio-hazardous wastes generated from hospital and other clinical settings possess heterogeneous constituents with potentially infectious properties imposing a significant threat to the public health as well as the natural environment. This becomes more curious in case of epidemic diseases treatment and cure procedures. There are several techniques used to treat the infectious wastes, however, adoption of either technique depends upon the type of material and available resources. Thermal treatment or incineration has been found as one of the common and efficient methods for toxic waste management in which waste materials are ignited and burnt under controlled conditions destroying the toxic constitutes of the hazardous materials. The present study has been taken up in order to study the toxic waste management with emphasis on hospital waste. The case of basic health unit has been taken in order to assess and quantify toxic waste potential and its management. The study has also come up with a proposed design of small-scale fixed bed incinerator for hospital waste.

Impact of Filter on the Estimation of Quantitative Mixture Risk Caused by Some Chemical Constituents Generated from Popular Cigarette Brands in Iran.

BackgroundThis study was conducted to evaluate the impact of filter on the eventual carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks caused by the main toxic constituents of popular cigarette brands in Iran.MethodsAt this laboratory study, the concentration of benzene, formaldehyde, arsenic, and cadmium in the mainstream smoke of 11 popular cigarette brands in Iran, on the without and with-filter modes was determined based on an established method. The hazard quotient (HQ), incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR), and mixture quantitative risk assessments (QRAs) were performed based on the QRA method recommended by United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).FindingsThe mean of HQ due to benzene, formaldehyde, arsenic, and cadmium in without-filter cigarette smoke was from 3.96 to 3505. The findings indicated that the HQs related to benzene, formaldehyde, arsenic, and cadmium in cigarette smoke were decreased with filter by 48.3%, 25.3%, 37.6%, and 49.1%, respectively. The filter of cigarette decreased ILCR of benzene, formaldehyde, arsenic, and cadmium in cigarette smoke by 53.02%, 25.31%, 37.70%, and 61.01%, respectively. The mixture of non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic estimated risks due to inhalation of studied cigarettes smoke was very high and unacceptable.ConclusionThe cigarette filter plays an essential role in reducing inhalation exposure to hazardous compounds in mainstream cigarette smoke; nevertheless, the average of overall mixture HQs and ILCRs estimated caused by studied compounds was higher than the acceptable value. It is recommended that future empirical studies investigate the impact of the type of fiber used in cigarette filter on reducing carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks caused by cigarette smoke.

Thiol-trapping natural products under the lens of the cysteamine assay: friends, foes, or simply alternatively reversible ligands?

The literature on thia-Michael acceptors is vast and can be cherry-picked to show either that these compounds pollute chemical libraries displaying unselective binding and propensity to toxicity, or, alternatively, that the thiol-trapping reaction is highly selective and critical for bioactivity. Since the energy of the carbon–sulfur bond (ca 60 kcal/mole) is similar to the one of the π-component of a carbon–carbon double bond, all thia-Michael additions are, in principle, reversible, and basically thermodynamically driven by the difference in energy between an S–H and a C–H bond. However, the rate of the backward reaction can vary dramatically, depending on mesomeric effects, strain, and steric considerations that can substantially lower the kinetic barrier to the forward and backward reactions, while the position of the equilibrium is strongly affected by steric effects. As a result, a pulsed, transient binding reminiscent of a non-covalent interaction can take place. We describe how an NMR assay to identify transient Michael acceptors was serendipitously discovered during an investigation on the migraine-inducing toxic constituents of the headache tree [Umbellularia californica (Hook. & Arn.) Nutt.], and summarize how the assay can also be used to locate thia-Michael acceptor sites in complex natural products, to comparatively evaluate thiol affinity in multi-electrophilic compounds, and to rate mixtures of acceptors according to their reactivity with thiol groups.

Effects of tobacco cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and waterpipe smoking on endothelial function and clinical outcomes.

Tobacco smoking is a leading cause of non-communicable disease globally and is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and lung disease. Importantly, recent data by the World Health Organizations (WHO) indicate that in the last two decades global tobacco use has significantly dropped, which was largely driven by decreased numbers of female smokers. Despite such advances, the use of e-cigarettes and waterpipes (shisha, hookah, narghile) is an emerging trend, especially among younger generations. There is growing body of evidence that e-cigarettes are not a harm-free alternative to tobacco cigarettes and there is considerable debate as to whether e-cigarettes are saving smokers or generating new addicts. Here, we provide an updated overview of the impact of tobacco/waterpipe (shisha) smoking and e-cigarette vaping on endothelial function, a biomarker for early, subclinical, atherosclerosis from human and animal studies. Also their emerging adverse effects on the proteome, transcriptome, epigenome, microbiome, and the circadian clock are summarized. We briefly discuss heat-not-burn tobacco products and their cardiovascular health effects. We discuss the impact of the toxic constituents of these products on endothelial function and subsequent CVD and we also provide an update on current recommendations, regulation and advertising with focus on the USA and Europe. As outlined by the WHO, tobacco cigarette, waterpipe, and e-cigarette smoking/vaping may contribute to an increased burden of symptoms due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and to severe health consequences.

Shining a new light on radiation's dark dide: Cold War era archives and chemical tinkering are helping researchers to better understand how radiation kills and how to protect against it. In this article, the first of a 2-part series, we examine the complicated interplay between radiation and cancer.

Shining a new light on radiation's dark dide: Cold War era archives and chemical tinkering are helping researchers to better understand how radiation kills and how to protect against it. In this article, the first of a 2-part series, we examine the complicated interplay between radiation and cancer.

Evaluation of two aqueous plant extracts in protection of wheat against phytopathogen fungus, Helminthosporium rostratum

In the field and greenhouses, chemical fungicides is the most commonly tool used for controlling fungal disease. Although chemical usage has been very effective in controlling fungal plant diseases, some major problems threaten to limit the continued use of fungicides. In the present research, extracts of Ziziphus and Rumex plants were chosen based on both traditional usages suggestive of antifungal activity. In addition, toxic fungal constituents of higher plants are generally thermo-labile, therefore, an aqueous extract was preferred for prevention any adverse effects. Phytochemicals of both plant extracts were detected by using HPLC, various phenolic and flavonoids compounds were detected. Ziziphus and Rumex extract concentrations that inhibited 50% of fungal growth (IC50) were 25 and 50 mg/ml, respectively. In vivo, results of morphological parameters of plant growth revealed that aqueous of tested plant extracts had allelopathy effects on seed germination. Increasing of plant roots length was appeared in the case of Ziziphus coated seed (either uninfected or infected). Both Ziziphus and Rumex aqueous extracts had positive synergistic effect where shoot lengths significantly increased. Dry weight of wheat spike significantly increased in Ziziphus and Rumex extracts treatments. Total proteins content of wheat plant were higher in all treatments than infected wheat plant with H. rostratum, on contrary, proline content. The results serve and support the new trend in biological control, where the aqueous extracts of Rumex and Ziziphus plants clearly reduced the effectiveness of fungal infection and improved all growth parameters of wheat seedlings (especially in the case of tri-treatments).

Is arsenic responsible for the toxicity of the hyperaccumulating mushroom Sarcosphaera coronaria?

The Violet Crown Cup, Sarcosphaera coronaria, is a rather inconspicuous mushroom, but with an interesting and unresolved mystery. In earlier days, the mushroom was considered edible, but several poisonings were reported in the early 20th century. The reason for the seemingly sporadic toxicity of S. coronaria is still unknown. One possible explanation is arsenic, since Crown Cups can take up high amounts of this element. We investigated the arsenic concentration and arsenic speciation in S. coronaria with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICPMS) and HPLC coupled to ICPMS and found up to incredible 0.9% As (dry mass). Most of it was present as methylarsonic acid (MA), a less toxic form of this element. However, low concentrations of the highly toxic methylarsonous acid [MA (III)] were also detected. The amounts were too low to pose an acute risk for consumers, but the concentration of MA (III) significantly increased during simulated gastric digestion. We could not unambiguously identify arsenic as the toxic constituent of S. coronaria, but we demonstrated that the extremely toxic MA (III) can be formed under certain circumstances, which should be carefully investigated in future.

In-vitro Antioxidant Capacity, Phytochemical Characterisation, Toxic and Functional Properties of African Yam Bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) Seed-Enriched Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Product (Pupuru)

Aims: This study aimed at determining the In-vitro antioxidant capacity, characterise phytochemical constituents, assess toxic and functional properties of African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) seed-enriched Cassava product (Pupuru) flour blends using standard methods.
 Methodology: Pupuru flour blends were produced from spontaneously-fermented cassava tubers substituted with African yam bean (Sphenostylis stenocarpa) seed (AYBS) (5% (EP5), 10% (EP10) and 15% (EP15), before toasting, cooling, milling, sieving and packaging. A commercial sample (CP) with 100% cassava and another produced in this study, were used as controls.
 Results: In-vitro 2,2-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging abilities, total flavonoid content (TFC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total phenol content (TPC) increased significantly (P = .05) as AYBS enrichment levels increased. The commercial and laboratory control samples showed no significant difference (P = .05) in all the antioxidants analysed except DPPH: ABTS (7.61- 12.27%); DPPH (26.34-48.26%); TFC (0.10-0.25 mg CAE/g); FRAP (0.81-2.36 (mg/g) and TPC (15.74- 24.15 mg GAE/g). All the phytochemicals except tannins increased significantly (P = .05) as levels of enrichment with AYBS increased. Tannins, phytates, saponins, alkaloids and oxalates were 1.46 -2.87 (mg/g); 0.85-1.40 mg/100 g; 4.18-13.27 mg/g; 24.89-29.05 mg/g and 1.71-3.23 mg/g, respectively. The toxic constituent revealed that all the samples contained significantly different (P = .05) cyanide ranging from 0.87-2.51 mg/kg which reduced as AYBS level of inclusion increased. The functional properties of the samples were significantly (P = .05) enhanced with AYBS enrichment.
 Conclusion: Utilisation of AYBS to enrich Pupuru increased its In-vitro antioxidant capacity and phytochemical constituents, reduced the toxic cyanide content enhanced the functional properties, hence, its suitability as a nutraceutical to delay the ageing process and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Integrated geophysical investigation techniques for mapping cassava effluent leachate contamination plume, at a dumpsite in Ilero, southwestern Nigeria

The subsurface illuminating strength of integrating Electrical Resistivity (ER) and Frequency Domain Electromagnetic (FDEM) geophysical investigation techniques to evaluate the level of subsurface leachate contamination plume generated by indiscriminate dumping of cassava product processing effluents and wastes around a dumpsite near cassava processing mill at Ilero southwestern Nigeria, has been demonstrated in this study. The lateral spread as well as depth extent of the cassava waste effluent leachate plume was determined from the subsurface resistivity and conductivity models generated from combined ER and FDEM geophysical surveys carried out through eight (8) Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), eight (8) FDEM and (2) Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) measurement profiles and stations purposively established across the dumpsite.Quality checked, inverted and depth matched ER and FDEM data generated 1D, 2D, and 3D resistivity and conductivity distribution in the form of subsurface logs, sections, constant depth maps and earth model employed to characterize the study area. Electrical resistivity result presents resistivity distribution that range in value between 21 Ωm to 213 Ωm from the topsoil to depths beyond 7.5 m. The FDEM sections and depth maps show conductivity distribution range between 4 mS/m – 286 mS/m across the dump site and provided information up to a depth of 60 m. The VES results generally delineate three (3) georesistivity layers, which include topsoil, weathered and fractured basement layers, occurring at depth between 0.4 – 10.0 m with characteristic resistivity values from 33.5 Ωm – 37.9 Ωm. The 3D resistivity and conductivity models generated by integrating the various results indicate anomalously low resistivity and relatively high conductivity (21 – 30 Ωm; 11 mS/m – 40 mS/m) zone which defines contamination plume in the central part of the cassava effluents and waste dumpsite.This study has through integrated electrical resistivity and frequency domain electromagnetic geophysical methods of investigation highlighted the subsurface contaminating potential of indiscriminating dumping of agricultural processing effluent and wastes, especially of cassava effluent, which has toxic cyanogenicglucosides constituent that is deleterious to the environment.

Determination of toosendanin and trans‐anethole in Fructus Meliae Toosendan and Fructus Foeniculi by HPLC–MS/MS and GC–MS/MS in rat plasma and their potential herb–herb interactions

The objective of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) combination theory is to "reduce toxicity and increase efficiency", especially to solve the liver toxicity of many TCMs. Fructus Meliae Toosendan (CLZ)-Fructus Foeniculi (XHX) is a typical traditional Chinese herb pair that decreases the toxicity and increases the efficiency of the herbs. Fructus Meliae Toosendan (CLZ, cold-natured) has significant liver toxicity. However, it has been widely used in combination with Fructus Foeniculi (XHX, hot-natured) for thousands of years in TCM, in which form it shows no hepatotoxicity, indicating that the combined use of XHX and CLZ can reduce the hepatotoxicity of CLZ. Herb-herb interactions could affect herb pharmacokinetics and in vivo efficacy. The herb-herb interactions between CLZ and XHX are still unknown. This study used liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to establish methods for detecting toosendanin and trans-anethole, the main active substances of CLZ and XHX, respectively. Additionally, we investigated their herb-herb interactions via pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies. The results indicate that the established analytical methods are suitable for detecting toosendanin and trans-anethole, and the methodology meets the requirements of biological sample testing methods. Compared with the CLZ group, the pharmacokinetic parameters Cmax , AUC(0-t) , AUC(0-∞) , MRT(0-t) and MRT(0-∞) of toosendanin in the CLZ-XHX group notably decreased and the values of Vz/F remarkably increased. Compared with the XHX group, the pharmacokinetic parameters Cmax , AUC0-t , AUC0-∞, Tmax and t1/2z of trans-anethole notably increased in the CLZ-XHX group, and the values of CLz/F and Vz/F obviously decreased. The pharmacokinetic results indicate that XHX can significantly decrease the absorption and bioavailability and accelerate the elimination process of toosendanin in CLZ. XHX could decrease the risk of in vivo accumulation of the toxic constituent of CLZ, toosendanin, thus decreasing its toxicity. It has also been shown that CLZ can significantly increase absorption and bioavailability and attenuate the elimination process of trans-anethole in XHX, thus enhancing its efficacy. Hepatotoxicity studies indicate that CLZ has significant hepatotoxicity, and its combined use with XHX can decrease its liver-damaging properties.

Investigating the toxicity of naphthenic acid fraction components from oil sands process-affected water to developing fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)

The extraction of bitumen from Alberta’s oil sands region generates large volumes of oil sands process-affected water (OSPW) that is stored in tailings ponds. Toxic constituents present in OSPW such as naphthenic acid fraction components (NAFCs) can cause adverse effects to aquatic life. Recent research has focused on the toxicity of NAFCs to highly vulnerable early life stages of fish. Here we examined the embryotoxicity of NAFCs (0-54 mg/L) extracted from OSPW to native fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas) from 1-day post-fertilization to hatch in a semi-natural setting at Queen’s University’s Biological Station. Embryo heart rate, mortality, prevalence and severity of malformations at hatch, post-hatch mass, and basal activity at hatch was examined. Embryo heart rates declined with increasing NAFC concentration, preceding pronounced exposure-response patterns of mortality and non-viable hatches. Visible malformations included cardiovascular (pericardial edema; present in 81.51% of non-viable hatches), craniofacial (reduced jaw and head size; 68.96%), myoskeletal (spinal curvatures; 60.90%), and peritoneal (yolk sac edema; 26.44%) malformations, that significantly increased in severity with increasing NAFC concentration. Fish that survived lethal concentrations displayed evidence of nervous system impairment including elevated patterns of erratic twitching. Post-hatch mass generally increased with increasing NAFC exposure, potentially as a compensatory-like response. Results of this work are the first to be reported in a semi-natural exposure setting and provide important toxicological information that will aid future policy directives for the management of OSPW in Alberta, Canada.

Brucine: A Review of Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Toxicology.

Brucine, a weak alkaline indole alkaloid, is one of the main bioactive and toxic constituents of Nux-vomica. Modern pharmacology studies and clinical practice demonstrate that brucine possesses wide pharmacological activities, such as anti-tumor, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and the effects on cardiovascular system and nervous system, etc. However, its central nervous system toxicity severely limits its clinical application. Herein, the physicochemical properties, pharmacological activities, and toxicity of brucine were reviewed, and the novel strategies to address the toxicity issues were discussed, aiming to bring new insights into further research and application of this active component.

HGF induces protective effects in α-naphthylisothiocyanate-induced intrahepatic cholestasis by counteracting oxidative stress

Cholestasis is a clinical syndrome common to a large number of hepatopathies, in which either bile production or its transit through the biliary tract is impaired due to functional or obstructive causes; the consequent intracellular retention of toxic biliary constituents generates parenchyma damage, largely via oxidative stress-mediated mechanisms. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) and its receptor c-Met represent one of the main systems for liver repair damage and defense against hepatotoxic factors, leading to an antioxidant and repair response. In this study, we evaluated the capability of HGF to counteract the damage caused by the model cholestatic agent, α-naphthyl isothiocyanate (ANIT). HGF had clear anti-cholestatic effects, as apparent from the improvement in both bile flow and liver function test. Histology examination revealed a significant reduction of injured areas. HGF also preserved the tight-junctional structure. These anticholestatic effects were associated with the induction of basolateral efflux ABC transporters, which facilitates extrusion of toxic biliary compounds and its further alternative depuration via urine. The biliary epithelium seems to have been also preserved, as suggested by normalization in serum GGT levels, CFTR expression and cholangyocyte primary cilium structure our results clearly show for the first time that HGF protects the liver from a cholestatic injury.

Assessment of carcinogenic and toxic substances in ‘Insunko’ herb

There has emerged a herb in Zambia called ‘insunko’ which has unknown chemical composition. The use of ‘insunko’ herb with unknown chemical composition has brought mixed feelings among many Zambians. This study, therefore, aimed to assess the toxic and carcinogenic substances in‘insunko’ herb. ‘Insunko’ herb was purchased from Chipata, Lusaka, Mpika, Mwense, Kitwe, and Solwezi. 5 samples were collected from each of these districts and were thoroughly mixed to give 6 consolidated samples (n = 6). Nicotine and, nitrosamines were analysed using UV spectrometer lambda 35 Perkin Elmer while trace metals were analysed using ICP-MS Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectroscopy (Agilent Technologies, Santa Clara, CA, USA). Nicotine, nitrosamines, and trace metals were detected in high concentrations. The concentrations ranged from 3.87 to 9.83 mg/kg for nitrosamines and 10.94–34.01 mg/kg for nicotine. Hazard Indexes for arsenic, cadmium, chromium, manganese, and copper were greater than one (HI > 1). ‘Insunko’ herb is a potentially toxic and carcinogenic substance because it contains toxic and carcinogenic constituents in high concentrations. These toxic and carcinogenic constituents have been confirmed to cause gastrointestinal disorders, cancers, degenerative, cardiovascular, hematopoietic, neurologic and cognitive problems as well as male infertility.

Advanced treatment of coal chemical reverse osmosis concentrate with three-stage MABR.

The issue of reverse osmosis concentrate (ROC) has attracted significant attention due to its complex and toxic constituents under high salinity conditions. In this work, a three-stage membrane-aerated biofilm reactor (MABR) system was constructed to treat such wastewater without an external carbon source. The effects of operating conditions including aeration pressure, reflux ratio, temperature and hydraulic retention time on the removal performance of the integrated system were evaluated and optimized. Under the optimal operating parameters, the removal efficiencies of COD, NH4+–N, NO3−–N, and TN reached 69.36%, 80.95%, 54.55%, and 54.36%, respectively. Three-dimensional fluorescence analysis indicated that humic acid was mostly removed from raw water. Moreover, microbial diversity analysis indicated that the microbial community structure of each reactor could be individually modulated to exert different functions and enhance the system performance. The integrated MABR system exhibits great feasibility and potential for the advanced treatment of coal chemical ROC.

Can the toxicity of naphthenic acids in oil sands process-affected water be mitigated by a green photocatalytic method?

Our study evaluates the efficacy of a “green” (i.e., sustainable, recyclable, and reusable) technology to treat waste waters produced by Canada’s oil sands industry. We examined the ability of a novel advanced oxidative method—ultra-violet photocatalysis over titanium dioxide (TiO2)-coated microparticles—to reduce the toxicity of naphthenic acid fraction components (NAFC) to early life stages of the fathead minnow ( Pimephales promelas). Lengthening the duration of photocatalysis resulted in greater removal of NAFC from bioassay exposure waters; low- and high-intensity treatments reduced NAFC concentrations to about 20 and 3 mg/L (by Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy, FTIR), respectively. Treatments reduced the acute lethality of NAFC to fathead minnows by over half after low-intensity treatment and three-fold after high-intensity treatment. However, incomplete degradation in low-intensity treatments increased the incidence of chronic toxicity relative to untreated NAFC solutions and cardiovascular abnormalities were common even with >80% of NAFC degraded. Our findings demonstrate that photocatalysis over TiO2 microparticles is a promising method for mitigating the toxicity of oil sands process-affected water-derived NAFC to fish native to the oil sands region, but the intensity of the photocatalytic treatment needs to be considered carefully to ensure adequate mineralization of toxic constituents.

Comparing the Biodegradability of Petroleum-based Plastic with a Novel, Sustainable Bio-plastic Alternative

The convenience and affordability of single-use plastic products makes them an attractive option for consumers. The toxic constituents of these traditional plastics, however, are known to cause a variety of health issues in thousands of species. These environmental hazards, along with the issue of white plastic and microplastic pollution, causes increased interest in biodegradable alternatives to petroleum-based hydrocarbons. In this research, a novel bioplastic inclusive of bamboo tannins and chitosan is selected from more than 60 trial formula variations based on resulting strength, fatigue, and transparency attributes. The biodegradability of the finalized bioplastic is compared to that of conventional polyethylene, in addition to investigating its solubility and water absorbance. Biodegradation rates of the bio-based plastic exceeded that of the petroleum-based formula, as determined with Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIRATR) analysis. The behavior of the experimental product in water deviated from the initial hypothesis, with substantial weight increase of approximately 193% after 60 minutes. A cost analysis displayed a difference of $0.0016 between the two products, with the natural additives of the experimental being more expensive. This research displays the potential of a legitimate, fully biodegradable plastic alternative to current marketplace bioplastics.

Assessment of spring water quality and associated health risks in a high-level natural radiation area, North Iran.

In this study, the spring water quality of a high natural background radiation region in North Iran was evaluated by measuring hydrochemical characteristics and concentration of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and activity concentration of radioactive elements. The carcinogenicity potential from exposure to PTEs and radioactive elements was also investigated using probabilistic approach. The hydrochemical properties of water samples revealed that there were two different water types in the study area: (1) non-thermal Ca-HCO3 type and (2) thermal Na-Cl type. The concentrations of Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Mo, Ni, Sb, Zn, and 40K were within the recommended water quality standard set by the World Health Organization (WHO). Elevated concentrations of As, Mn, Hg, 226Ra, and 232Th occur in Na-Cl water type while elevated concentrations of Fe occur in Ca-HCO3 water type. Also, health complications of dermal contact (via balneology or bathing) are within the safe limits. The major concern regarding the contaminated springs is the possibility of soil and groundwater contamination through uncontrolled runoff and spa effluents. Preventing the spread of toxic constituents in the study area via high-risk spring water requires periodic monitoring, and applying control measures where necessary.

Simultaneous quantification of atractyloside and carboxyatractyloside in rat plasma by LC-MS/MS: Application to a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of Xanthii Fructus extract.

Xanthii Fructus is extensively used as an herbal medicine. Ingestion of this herb is associated with severe hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity. Atractyloside and carboxyatractyloside are two dominative toxic constituents in Xanthii Fructus. However, their pharmacokinetic study is lacking. In this study, a novel high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method was developed to simultaneously quantify the rat plasma concentrations of atractyloside and carboxyatractyloside. After protein precipitation, the analytes were chromatographic separated on a ZORBAX Eclipse Plus column (2.1 × 150mm id, 5 µm) under gradient elute. In the negative electrospray ionization mode, the transitions at m/z 725.3→645.4 for atractyloside, m/z 769.3→689.4 for carboxyatractyloside, and m/z 479.2→121.1 for paeoniflorin (the internal standard) were acquired by multiple reaction monitoring. This analytical method showed good linearity over 1-500ng/mL for atractyloside and 2-500ng/mL for carboxyatractyloside with acceptable precision and accuracy. No matrix effect, instability and carryover occurred in the analysis procedure. The extraction recoveries were greater than 85.0%. This method was applied to a preliminary pharmacokinetic study by orally administering Xanthii Fructus extract (9g/kg) to rats, which was useful to evaluate the role of these two compounds in Xanthii Fructus-induced toxicity.

Prediction of arsenic vulnerable zones in the groundwater environment of a rapidly urbanizing setup, Guwahati, India

The present study, through a multi model assessment approach emphasizes the relevance of prior urban settlement planning with respect to the changing land use pattern. A coupled approach integrating satellite data products of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) change along with chemical evaluation of As toxicity were modelled to evaluate the groundwater vulnerability. Change detection analysis was incorporated using the satellite images of 2013 and 2016 which shows 10 % increase in the buildings as compared to the total area of the study in given period. The LULC class that has been most compromised in this expansion and got reduced were the vegetation (∼6 %) and the barren areas (∼4 %) and the total surface water sources (0.5 %), all contributing in increased urban sprawl. As per the origin of As contamination in the area it seems that high sediment deposition along the braided Brahmaputra River stretch leads to As contamination which was associated with Fe-(oxy)-hydroxide dissolution. The vulnerability assessment using Artificial Neural Network technique in this region shows that As is present relatively in lesser concentration in the east direction. The continuous expansion of the urban habitation towards the greater As concentration zone will further make the situation critical for the people dependent on groundwater. The study suggests that prior settlement planning must be carried out in accordance to the presence of any toxic constituent in drinking water source to avoid future crisis for potable water.