Trace Metals Zinc Research Articles

Trophic stoichiometry of macroelements and metals in a terrestrial food web

In order to understand the transfer of macroelements and toxic metals in the terrestrial food web, barn swallows, terrestrial frogs, and insects were collected from farmlands in the Leizhou Peninsula, and analyzed for macroelements carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and sulfur (S) and trace metals nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and mercury (Hg). The multi-element ecological stoichiometry was discussed to trace the food web flow of nutrients and toxicants. The percentage contents of C, N, P, and S were 35.43–59.91%, 6.89–12.11%, 0.49–4.66%, and 0.44–2.19%, respectively. The concentrations of Ni, Zn, Se, Cu, Cr, Cd, Pb, and Hg were 0.163–116 mg/kg, 38.7–227 mg/kg, 0.0453–3.82 mg/kg, 3.11–141 mg/kg, not detected—79.6 mg/kg, 0.0203–0.358 mg/kg, 0.148–4.57 mg/kg, and 0.00159–1.46 mg/kg, respectively. Organisms at high trophic levels had higher contents of N, P, and S, and lower contents of C. Significant correlations were observed between δ15N and ratios of C: N, C: P, C: S, N: P, N: S, and S: P, indicating selective transfer of biogenic elements for predators in the terrestrial food web. Most metals including Ni, Zn, Se, Cu, Cr, Pb, and Hg had biomagnification factors and trophic magnification factors higher than 1, because the whole body of organisms rather than tissues were used. The negative correlations between the detoxification ratios of Se: X (each toxic metal) and metal concentrations suggest potential adverse effect of metals on terrestrial organisms.

Occurrence and toxicological relevance of pesticides and trace metals in agricultural soils, sediments, and water of the Sogamoso River basin, Colombia

Historical pesticide use in agriculture and trace metal accumulation have long term impact on soil, sediment, and water quality. This research quantifies legacy and current-use pesticides and trace metals, assessing their occurrence and toxicological implications on a watershed scale in the Sogamoso River basin, tributary of the Magdalena River in Colombia. Organochlorine pesticides (22), organophosphates (7), and azole fungicides (5), as well as trace metals cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were analyzed in croplands and along the river. Toxic units (TU) and hazard quotients (HQ) were calculated to assess the mixture toxicity. Organochlorines were detected in 84% of soils, 100% of sediments, and 80% of water samples. Organophosphates were found in 100% of soil and sediment samples, as well as in 70% of water samples. Azole fungicides were present in 79% of soils, 60% of sediments, and in 10% of water samples. Total pesticide concentrations ranged from 214.2 to 8497.7 μg/kg in soils, 569.6–12768.2 μg/kg in sediments, and 0.2–4.1 μg/L in water. In addition, the use of partition coefficient (Kd) and organic carbon fraction (foc) allowed the distribution analysis for most of the pesticides in sediments, suspended particulate matter (SPM), and water systems, but not for soils. Concentrations of trace metals Cu, Zn, Pb, and Zn exceeded international quality guidelines for agricultural soils in 16% of the samples. Furthermore, Cu and Zn concentrations exceeded sediment quality guidelines in 50 and 90% of the samples, respectively. These findings demonstrate the broad distribution of complex mixtures of trace metals, legacy organochlorines, and current-use pesticides across the basin, indicating that conventional agriculture is a significant source of diffuse pollution. Sustainable agricultural practices are needed to mitigate adverse impacts on ecosystems and human health.

Oxidative response to accumulation of trace metals in tissue of two bivalves, the Asian green mussel Perna viridis and the blood cockle Tegillarca granosa, living in Pattani Bay, Thailand.

Using bivalves to indicate aquatic pollutants was favorable for discerning the negative effects of high levels of metal accumulation in tissue. We investigated the correlation between trace metal accumulation and the tissue oxidative response of two bivalves. The Asian green mussel Perna viridis and the blood cockle Tegillarca granosa were sampled along with seawater and sediments from three locations around Pattani Bay, Thailand. Accumulation of nine trace metals (cadmium, cobalt, copper, chromium, nickel, manganese, iron, zinc, and lead) in seawater, sediments, and tissue and the oxidative tissue response were evaluated. Metal bioaccumulation factor, biota-sediment accumulation factor, and histopathology were also indicated. The present study found that P. viridis and T. granosa were macroconcentrators and bioaccumulative of cadmium, and their tissue accumulation of cadmium was strongly related to lipid peroxidation activation. Perna viridis exhibited a higher oxidative response than T. granosa, as indicated by malondialdehyde, catalase, and reduced glutathione levels. The present study indicated that P. viridis and T. granosa were macroconcentrators and bioaccumulative of cadmium, and their tissue accumulation of cadmium was strongly related to lipid peroxidation activation. Research has shown discernible negative effects of a high level of metal accumulation in tissue, and deformed and damaged tissues were present in the gills, digestive glands, intestines, and feet of P. viridis and T. granosa.

Assessment of trace metal bioaccumulation in Mytilus galloprovincialis of the central Atlantic ocean after installation of treatment sewage facilities

Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) are vital to Morocco's artisanal fishermen both nutritionally and economically. This study probed the bioaccumulation of trace metals zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) in mussels from three sites north of Agadir: Anza, Aourir, and Imouran. Analyzed using atomic absorption techniques across different seasons, findings indicated variable metal concentrations, with Imouran notably presenting the highest, potentially due to influences from the new wastewater plants of Anza and Aourir. While lead was not detected, cadmium, albeit in lower concentrations, posed potential health concerns upon regular consumption. Individual Mean Bioaccumulation Index (IMBI) demonstrated fluctuations, majorly influenced by Zn, Cd, and Cu levels. These trends in IMBI between 2017 and 2018 for Aourir and Imouran hinted at similar environmental impacts or exposure levels. Despite site differences, Metal Pollution Index (MPI) values consistently pointing to analogous potential toxicity due to metal combinations. Intricate relationships between trace metals and their environmental parameters were evident, with multiple linear regression analysis (MLRA) showcasing differing correlations between variables. These results highlight the nuanced interactions between trace metals and bioaccumulation indices, such as MPI and IMBI. In conclusion, the findings accentuate the imperative of regular coastal water quality checks and effective management strategies to curtail pollutant discharges.

Determination of physicochemical parameters and assessment of trace metals bioaccumulation in the Lagos lagoon and edible tissues of the southern pink shrimp (Farfantepenaeus notialis - Pérez-Farfante, 1967)

Abstract. Bio-inorganic chemistry is found as an endearing aspect to research in today’s epoch. It deals with chemical reactions between the metals with natural resources, such as air, soil, water and byproducts (foods). To assess the decline in the quality of southern pink shrimps and water quality on samples from the Lagos lagoon, the morphometric assessment of the crustacean (Farfantepenaeus notialis – F. notialis), physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, salinity, conductivity, total hardness, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, dissolved oxygen, sulphates, nitrate and phosphate) and levels of six (6) trace metals (Cadmium, Chromium, Zinc, Iron, Manganese and Copper) were collected from three sampling points with renowned anthropogenic activities along the stretch of the Lagos Lagoon using standard analytical procedures and the results were compared with standard acceptable limits. The crustaceans used had total length (4.0 – 14.4 cm), carapace length (1.6 – 6.4 cm), total weight (1.1 – 20.8 g) and carapace weight (0.9 – 11.5 g). The results obtained in the physicochemical analysis revealed that a few parameters such as biochemical oxygen demand and total suspended solids were beyond acceptable limits, while the trace metals were present in the samples at different levels but still within the maximum residual levels in the edible tissues of the pink shrimps. The obtained results showed that the crustacean and water from the lagoon contained metals but did not exceed both local and international standards of limit and thus, they are still safe for consumption and domestic uses.

Environmental Trace Metal Concentrations in the Okrika Stretch: A Comprehensive Study on Pollution Indicators

The Okrika Stretch of Bonny River, Nigeria, has long been a vital ecological and economic resource for the surrounding communities. However, increasing industrialization and anthropogenic activities have raised concerns about the potential pollution of this precious aquatic ecosystem. This study delves into the assessment of environmental trace metal concentrations, specifically Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe), as pollution indicators in various components of the Okrika Stretch. The research scrutinizes water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle samples, utilizing cutting-edge analytical techniques to measure trace metal levels. Sampling was carried out at five distinct locations, including a control site situated outside the presumed affected area, for both dry and wet seasons throughout the year. Following collection, the samples of water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle underwent digestion and subsequent analysis using the Bulk Scientific Model 200A Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Our findings reveal a complex interplay of trace metal concentrations across different environmental components. The water samples exhibit varying levels of these metals, reflecting the dynamic nature of riverine systems. Sediment analysis identifies hotspots of metal accumulation, potentially posing risks to aquatic life. Oysters and periwinkles, as vital components of the food web, accumulate trace metals at different rates, providing insights into potential human health implications. This research not only sheds light on the current state of pollution within the Okrika Stretch but also underscores the importance of continued monitoring and mitigation efforts. The results call for a comprehensive environmental management strategy to safeguard the ecological and economic sustainability of the Bonny River region. By addressing the complexities of trace metal pollution, this study contributes to the broader discourse on safeguarding our invaluable aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

Trace metal optimization in CHO cell culture through statistical design of experiments.

A majority of the biotherapeutics industry today relies on the manufacturing of monoclonal antibodies from Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, yet challenges remain with maintaining consistent product quality from high-producing cell lines. Previous studies report the impact of individual trace metal supplemental on CHO cells, and thus, the combinatorial effects of these metals could be leveraged to improve bioprocesses further. A three-level factorial experimental design was performed in fed-batch shake flasks to evaluate the impact of time wise addition of individual or combined trace metals (zinc and copper) on CHO cell culture performance. Correlations among each factor (experimental parameters) and response variables (changes in cell culture performance) were examined based on their significance and goodness of fit to a partial least square's regression model. The model indicated that zinc concentration and time of addition counter-influence peak viable cell density and antibody production. Meanwhile, early copper supplementation influenced late-stage ROS activity in a dose-dependent manner likely by alleviating cellular oxidative stress. Regression coefficients indicated that combined metal addition had less significant impact on titer and specific productivity compared to zinc addition alone, although titer increased the most under combined metal addition. Glycan analysis showed that combined metal addition reduced galactosylation to a greater extent than single metals when supplemented during the early growth phase. A validation experiment was performed to confirm the validity of the regression model by testing an optimized setpoint of metal supplement time and concentration to improve protein productivity.

Zinc enrichment and isotopic fractionation in a marine habitat of the c. 2.1 Ga Francevillian Group: A signature of zinc utilization by eukaryotes?

Constraining the timing of eukaryogenesis and the divergence of eukaryotic clades is a major challenge in evolutionary biology. Here, we present trace metal concentration and zinc isotope data for c. 2.1 billion-year-old Francevillian Group pyritized structures, previously described as putative remnants of the first colonial multicellular organisms, and their host black shales. Relative to the host rocks, pyritized structures are strongly enriched in zinc, cobalt and nickel, by at least one order of magnitude, with markedly lighter zinc isotope compositions. A metabolic demand for high concentrations of aqueous zinc, cobalt, and nickel combined with preferential uptake of lighter zinc isotopes may indicate metalloenzyme utilization by eukaryotes in marine habitats c. 2.1 billion years ago. Once confirmed, this would provide a critical calibration point for eukaryogenesis, suggesting that this major evolutionary innovation may have happened contemporaneously with elevated atmospheric oxygen levels during the latter part of the Great Oxidation Event, some 400 million years earlier than is currently widely accepted.

A Case of Acute Intravascular Hemolysis During Dialysis: A Quiz

A Case of Acute Intravascular Hemolysis During Dialysis: A Quiz

Maximizing agricultural reuse of recycled nutrients: A spatially explicit assessment of environmental consequences and costs

Recovering nutrients from organic materials to reduce artificial fertilizer inputs requires the implementation of processing technologies and can involve considerable logistics and transportation costs. Reducing such costs by directly applying organic materials to agricultural land can contribute to pollution due to potential contaminants and unbalanced nutrient ratios. Assessing the cost of increased recycling requires a spatially explicit approach because availability of organic materials, nutrient demand and agro-ecosystem properties vary spatially. A multi-objective model was developed to estimate the trade-offs between costs of nutrient recovery and improvements in nutrient distribution for a case study area in The Netherlands. The evaluated recovery processes included solid-liquid separation followed by reverse osmosis to recover nutrients from pig manure which was compared to a conventional process via hygienisation and export. Results indicate that, even in a nutrient saturated area, replacement potential of artificial nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizers through locally reclaimed nutrients is limited to about 17% N and 55% P. A cost optimum was found when about 48% of the initial pig manure quantities were processed via nutrient recovery and directed to land. Increasing manure processing for nutrient recovery led to a redistribution of nutrients and trace metals (zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu)), resulting in more localized concentration. Zn and Cu were enriched by about 8% and 2%, respectively, when maximizing nutrient recovery. Our generic model offers a methodology to assess the trade-offs between increased recycling and associated spatial effects to facilitate sustainable recycling infrastructures for achieving more circular agriculture.

The biogeochemistry of zinc and cadmium in the Amundsen Sea, coastal Antarctica

The trace metals zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) are both involved in the metabolic processes of marine phytoplankton, and as such, both metals play important roles in ocean biogeochemical cycles. In Antarctica, the Amundsen Sea (AS) experiences rapid ice shelf melting, and the Amundsen Sea polynya (ASP) hosts seasonal phytoplankton blooms in austral summer, with important implications for atmospheric carbon dioxide drawdown. However, the effects of ice melting and phytoplankton blooms on the biogeochemistry and distributions of Zn and Cd in the ASP remain poorly studied. Here, we present the first combined dataset of dissolved and particulate Zn and Cd in the AS (including the inflow and outflow to and from the Dotson and Getz ice shelves) collected as part of the GEOTRACES process study GPpr12. We use this dataset to assess the sources of both elements to the AS region and characterize the particle composition in the ASP. We find that the main source of both dissolved Zn and Cd in the AS is Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW), with an additional small flux of both metals from shelf sediments. By contrast, aerosol deposition, ice shelf melt, and sea ice melt are all deemed insignificant sources for either Zn or Cd in the AS. Labile particulate Zn and Cd dominate the total particulate pool in the surface layer, indicating that biological uptake is a predominant process for the cycling of both metals in the ASP, whereas sediment resuspension and ice shelf melt do not supply a significant amount of either particulate Zn or Cd. Additionally, we use two commonly used approaches to estimate biogenic and lithogenic particulate concentrations. We find high biogenic particulate concentrations at the surface, decreasing with depth, indicating remineralization plays an important role in the cycling of particulate metals. In contrast, lithogenic particulate metal concentrations remain low throughout the water column. We also show that the estimated uptake ratios of Zn and Cd relative to phosphate in the surface layer are lower than reported for the open Southern Ocean, likely related to the spatial and temporal variability of Fe in the AS. Overall, these new observations provide insight into the biogeochemistry of both Zn and Cd in the AS, a region that is subject to the influence of rapid climate change, which may have implications for the larger-scale cycling of trace metals in the Southern Ocean. Specifically, the amount of Zn and Cd supplied to the surface ASP will increase, given that the volume of CDW that flows towards the Dotson Ice Shelf is predicted to increase.

River water influenced by shale gas wastewater discharge for paddy irrigation has limited effects on soil properties and microbial communities

The processes of hydraulic fracturing to extract shale gas generate a large amount of wastewater, and the potential impacts of wastewater discharge after treatment are concerning. In this field study, we investigated the effects of the irrigation of paddy fields for 2 consecutive years by river water that has been influenced by shale gas wastewater discharge on soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and function, and rice grain quality. The results showed that conductivity, chloride and sulfate ions in paddy soils downstream of the outfall showed an accumulative trend after two years of irrigation, but these changes occurred on a small scale (<500 m). Two-year irrigation did not cause the accumulation of trace metals (barium, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, strontium, zinc, nickel, and uranium) in soil and rice grains. Among all soil parameters, the accumulation of chloride ions was the most pronounced, with concentrations in the paddy soil at the discharge site 13.3 times higher than at the upstream control site. The use of influenced river water for paddy irrigation positively increased the soil microbial diversity, but these changes occurred after two years of irrigation and did not occur after one year of irrigation. Overall, the use of river water affected by shale gas wastewater discharge for agricultural irrigation has limited effects on agroecosystems over a short period. Nevertheless, the possible negative effects of contaminant accumulation in soil and rice caused by longer-term irrigation should be seriously considered.

COMPARISON AND RISK ASSESSMENT OF TRACE METAL CONTENT IN FACTORY-FARMED BROILER AND FREE-RANGE CHICKEN MEAT SOLD IN LAGUNA, PHILIPPINES

Chicken meat consumption remains high in the Philippines, and consequently, annual chicken production has risen steadily over the years. Although most of the chicken meat available in the market are sourced from factory farms, there has been growing popularity of free-range chicken production, largely driven by its perceived health benefits and sanitation concerns in factory farms, among others. In this work, we aimed at comparing the trace metal (copper, iron, lead, manganese, and zinc) content of free-range and factory-farmed broiler chicken meat that are being sold in Laguna, Philippines. The samples were subjected to acid digestion and analysis was done using atomic absorption spectrometry. Results showed an average concentration between 0.17 – 0.24 mg/kg, 2.22 – 2.34 mg/kg, 0.12 – 0.15 mg/kg, 0.95 – 1.32 mg/kg, and 1.81 – 1.96 mg/kg for copper, iron, lead, manganese, and zinc, respectively. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and Tukey multiple comparison test (p &lt; 0.05) showed no significant differences in the trace metal content of free-range and factory-farmed chicken meats, suggesting that in terms of the levels of these trace metals, not much differentiates the two varieties. Analysis of the health hazards, reported as target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazardous index (HI), associated with the consumption of the said chicken breast meat indicated no potential health risks.

Sources, pathways and concentrations of potentially toxic trace metals in home environments

Despite ongoing concerns about trace metal and metalloid (trace metals) exposure risks from indoor dust, there has been limited research examining their sources and relationship to outdoor soils. Here we determine the concentrations and sources for potentially toxic trace metals arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) and their pathways into homes in Sydney, Australia, using home-matched indoor dust (n = 166), garden soil (n = 166), and road dust samples (n = 51). All trace metals were more elevated indoors versus their matched garden soil counterparts. Indoor Cu and Zn dust concentrations were significantly more enriched than outdoor dusts and soils, indicating indoor sources were more relevant for these elements. By contrast, even though Pb was elevated in indoor dust, garden soil concentrations were correspondingly high, indicating that it remains an important source and pathway for indoor contamination. Elevated concentrations of As, Pb and Zn in garden soil and indoor dust were associated with home age (>50 years), construction materials, recent renovations and deteriorating interior paint. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) between road dust and garden soil Cu concentrations, and those of As and Zn in soil and indoor dust, and Pb across all three media suggest common sources. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis of indoor dust samples (n = 6) showed that 57% of particles were derived from outdoor sources. Lead isotopic compositions of soil (n = 21) and indoor dust (n = 21) were moderately correlated, confirming the relevance of outdoor contaminants to indoor environments. This study illustrates the source, relationship and fate of trace metals between outdoor and indoor environments. The findings provide insight into understanding and responding to potentially toxic trace metal exposures in the home environment.

Dietary metal intake and the prevalence of erectile dysfunction in US men: Results from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2004.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) mainly affects men over 40 years of age and is a common clinical condition. In addition to hypertension and diabetes, environment, and lifestyle are also significantly associated with erectile dysfunction. The relationship between dietary trace metal intake and ED has not been studied. Data on participants were obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for this study, and those with incomplete information on clinical variables were excluded. Dose-response curve analysis was used to investigate the relationship between dietary trace metal intake and ED prevalence. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to adjust for confounders to further investigate the relationship between dietary trace metal intake and ED prevalence. 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to adjust for differences between clinical variables for data reanalysis to confirm the reliability of the results. A total of 3,745 individuals were included in the study, including 1096 ED patients and 2,649 participants without ED. Dietary intake of trace metals (Mg, Zn, Cu, and Se) was significantly higher in participants without ED than in ED patients (all P < 0.001). Dose-response curve analysis showed a significant negative association between these dietary metal intakes and ED prevalence (all P < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for confounders (age, education, BMI, annual household income, hypertension, diabetes, marital status, race, and current health status) revealed that increased dietary metal intake reduced the odds ratio of ED. 1:1 PSM reanalysis further confirmed the validity of the results. Increasing dietary intake of trace metals (magnesium, zinc, copper, and selenium) within the upper limit is beneficial in reducing the prevalence of ED.

Investigation of heavy metal exposure and trace element levels in acute exacerbatıon of COPD

ObjectivesThe study aims to evaluate the levels of trace and heavy metals among chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with acute exacerbation and their impact on the severity and mortality of the disease. Methods100 healthy volunteers and 114 patients with acute exacerbation participated in this work. According to Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) classification, COPD patients are divided into 4 groups. Analysis of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, arsenic, cobalt, nickel, mercury, aluminum, calcium, and manganese) and trace metals (copper, chromium, and zinc) was performed using a plasma mass spectrometer. ResultsBody mass index was lower in COPD exacerbation patients (p < 0.05) in comparison to the control. In comparison with the control group, the levels of heavy metals were greater in COPD cases (p < 0.001). Al, Ca, Co, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, and Hg levels of GOLD group 4 were found to be higher compared to GOLD Group 1 (p < 0.001). Likewise, the Mn level was found higher in GOLD Group 1 (p < 0.05). However, the level of Zn was lower in GOLD group 4 in comparison with GOLD 1 cases (p < 0.001). The factors for the prediction of the disease in the COPD patient group were determined using multivariate regression analysis. Al, Ca, Mn, Co, As, and Hg was determined to be independent risk factors in predicting COPD exacerbations (p < 0.05). Al, Co, Pb, Ni, Hg, and Cd levels were higher in COPD exacerbations that resulted in mortality (p < 0.05). Co, Cd, Hg, and Pb were determined to be independent risk factors for mortality in COPD exacerbation cases (p < 0.05). ConclusionsOur study showed that serum heavy metal levels are linked with the harshness and mortality of acute COPD attacks. These findings may indicate that changes in serum heavy metal levels can be used to determine the severity of a COPD exacerbation.

Trace metals distribution between the surface waters of the Gulf of Cadiz and the Alboran Sea

This study was conducted to address the changes in the surface distribution of trace metals (cobalt, copper, iron, cadmium, nickel, zinc, lead and molybdenum) as they are advected from the Gulf of Cadiz to the Alboran Sea, through the Strait of Gibraltar (south Iberian Peninsula), regions of great ecosystemic importance. Trace metals concentrations were measured in samples collected during two oceanographic cruises, together with the main factors affecting their spatial distribution and temporal variability (i.e., wind and surface currents). Several rivers, the main source of trace metals in this region, flow into the Gulf of Cadiz which is connected with the Alboran Sea through the Strait of Gibraltar by the general circulation pattern. The surface circulation pattern leads to an offshore-eastward gradient that is highly influenced by wind variability. An increase in vertical turbulence induced by the winds or the tidal cycle causes the dilution of trace metals' concentration by mixing rich-metal superficial waters with poor-metal subsurface waters. Additionally, along the eastward displacement of surface waters, several water retention zones have been described (Trafalgar, Camarinal, the Coastal Cyclonic Gyre) that imply an increase in trace metals concentration close to the coast. In addition, our results suggest that the coastal edges of the Strait of Gibraltar also act as a source of certain metals to the Alboran Sea, probably due to the industries in the proximity areas.

Trace metal speciation within sediment from the Arabian Gulf

Geochemical fraction of the trace metal species arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn), collected from varying water depths sediments of Qatar Marine Zone from different locations (N= north, C= central, and S=south) of the Arabian sea were determined using five-stages sequential extraction technique. The total concentration of trace elements trend was as following: Fe (35034.55μg/g) > Mn (757.47μg/g) > Ni (111.65μg/g) > Cr (109.35μg/g) > Zn (81.84μg/g) > As (64.28μg/g) > Cu (61.30μg/g) > Co (18.52μg/g) > Pb (13.82μg/g) > Cd (0.38μg/g). The trace elements were extracted in the following order: exchangeable (EXC), bound to carbonate (CA), Fe-Mn oxide bound (FMO), organic matter bound (OM), and residue (RES), to study the mobility and bioavailability of each metal, as these indicate the potential for metal release to the surrounding environment. Data indicate that 23.40% of Pb concentration was extracted in EXC phase, 58% of Cd concentration was concentrated in the CA phase, an elevated amount of Cr was scavenged by Fe-Mn oxide in the FMO phase, OM phase held a wide variety of non-lithogenic source elements following FMO, and about 84% of the Fe was found in the RES fraction. This phase dominated the fractionation profile of the trace elements except for Cd and Mn.

Innovative geocomposite for dredged sediments depollution

In France, sediments from river dredging are considered as waste. Without any special treatment, they must be stored in landfills. The dredged sediments of our area of study (North of France) are polluted with trace metals (antimony and zinc are above the French regulation threshold). The main objective of this study is to develop a new method of active depollution and dewatering treatment in order to enable the reuse of treated sediments. This treatment is carried out through ponds equipped with innovative geocomposite. This innovative geocomposite has two typical passive functions (filtration and drainage). In addition, it is functionalized by an innovative electrokinetic technology to confer it active roles (depollution and dewatering). Electrokinetic consists in applying a difference of electrical potential to a porous medium. We present here the results of a preliminary laboratory study that simulates this new method on a short-term (3 weeks) experiment. The results show that the electrokinetic treatment has an impact on the chemical and physical properties of sediments. The treatment reduces by 50% the concentration of zinc in the leachate after lixiviation.

Bioaccumulation of Cu, Fe and Zn in Wild Ruminants in Middle Gemer Region

The aim of this study was to monitor trace metals (copper, iron and zinc) concentrations in parenchymatous organs and muscle tissue of red deer (n=23) and roe deer (n=25) that were hunted down in the middle Gemer region in south central Slovakia. Being expressed in mg kg–1 in all cases, these concentrations assumed the following values: mean renal copper concentration in red deer was 4.36, hepatic 19.65, muscle 1.96; renal iron concentration was 72.5, hepatic 131.9, muscle 45.09; mean zinc concentration in kidney was 27.77, in liver 30.22 and in muscle 29.58 , respectively. In roe deer, mean level of copper in kidney was 4.83, in the liver 26.4, in muscle tissue 2.1; mean concentration of iron in kidney was 66.69, in liver 122.83, in muscle tissue 49.07; mean concentration of zinc in kidney was 27.34, in liver 29.76, and in muscle tissue 24.37, respectively. Concentration of metals under study in different age groups showed that the values rose proportionally with age except for zinc concentration, where the highest Zn concentrations were detected in muscle of young animals. In other trace metal levels no significant differences were detected between age groups, males or females. Based on the given results, the Revuca district does not show itself as the most polluted region considering surveyed heavy metals, but nevertheless the presented results document that the presence of heavy metals in the tissues of game is still an interesting object for the next studies.