Background Values Research Articles

Accessing the Past: A Sediment Core Revealing Anthropogenic Impacts of Technology-Critical Elements on the Marine Environment.

One group of elements attracting more and more attention are so-called technology-critical elements (TCEs). In comparison with legacy pollutants, the anthropogenic impact of TCEs on the environment might still be minor, but variousapplications introduce them to the most remote places in the world including the marine environment. One area prone to pollution is the Baltic Sea, partly due to the lack of water exchange with the North Sea. In this study, a sediment core from the German Baltic Sea was used to analyze a total of 42 elemental mass fractions. Based on radiometric dating of 210Pb and 137Cs, results were classified in a recent (2020-2000) and a past period (< 1920), calculating background concentrations based on the Median + 2 Median Absolute Deviation (M2MAD) and the Tukey Inner Fence (TIF). Six legacy pollutants (Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb) and six TCEs (Ga, Ge, Nb, La, Gd, Ta) are discussed in detail. Anthropogenic impacts of both groups were assessed, and local enrichment factors were calculated showing an increase for the legacy pollutants (past period (≤ 0.8); recent period (≥ 1.2)), but also a minor increase for Ga, Ge and Nb (past period (0.9); recent period (1.1)). Values ≥ 1.5, indicating anthropogenic impact, were found for Cu, Zn, Cd and Pb, but also for Ge. Proposed background values may be considered as baseline for future studies.

In Situ Characterization of Dust Storms and Their Snow‐Darkening Effect Over Himalayas

AbstractIn this study, we used satellite observations to identify 10 typical dust‐loading events over the Indian Himalayas. Next, the aerosol microphysical and optical properties during these identified dust storms are characterized using cotemporal in situ measurements over Mukteshwar, a representative site in Indian Himalayas. Relative to the background values, the mass of coarse particles (size range between 2.5 and 10 μm) and the extinction coefficient were found to be enhanced by 400% (from 24 ± 15 to 98 ± 40 μg/m3) and 175% (from 89 ± 57 Mm−1 to 156 ± 79 Mm−1), respectively, during these premonsoonal dust‐loading events. Moreover, based on the air mass trajectory, these dust storms can be categorized into two categories: (a) mineral dust events (MDEs), which involve long‐range transported dust plumes traversing through the lower troposphere to reach the Himalayas and (b) polluted dust events (PDEs), which involve short‐range transported dust plumes originating from the arid western regions of the Indian subcontinent and traveling within the heavily polluted boundary layer of the Gangetic plains before reaching the Himalayas. Interestingly, compared to the background, the SSA and AAE decrease during PDEs but increase during MDEs. More importantly, we observe a twofold increase in black carbon concentrations and the aerosol absorption coefficient (relative to the background values) during the PDEs with negligible changes during MDEs. Consequently, the aerosol‐induced snow albedo reduction (SAR) also doubles during MDEs and PDEs relative to background conditions. Thus, our findings provide robust observational evidence of substantial dust‐induced snow and glacier melting over the Himalayas.

Long-Term Trends and Ecological Risks of Heavy Metal Accumulation in Cultivated Land of Songnen Plain, China

Heavy metal pollution in agricultural soils poses a serious threat to food security. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct risk assessments and issue early warnings about high levels of metal contamination for the sustained prosperity of agriculture. To assess the risks, identify the sources, quantify the amounts, and determine the extent of pollution from seven heavy metals, as well as to provide early warnings, 78 soil samples were collected from farmed lands in the Songnen Plain of Jilin Province. The average concentrations of Zn, Cu, Mn, Pb, Cd, Ni, and As were found to be 2.05, 1.5, 0.2, 1.09, 2.68, 1.53, and 1.17 times higher than the background values of Chinese soils, respectively. Source analysis indicated that toxic Pb originates from vehicle exhaust emission, while Cd, Cu, and Ni are attributed to industrial activities. Zn and As are likely associated with agricultural practices, and Mn predominantly stems from natural environmental sources. The geo-accumulation index suggests relatively high, accumulation levels for Zn, Cu, Mn, and Pb. Meanwhile, the single-factor pollution index indicates elevated pollution levels of Zn, Cu, and Cd. Potential ecological risk assessment reveals that certain areas within Changchun and Baicheng cities exhibit higher ecological risks. Notably, Cd has the highest potential ecological risk index (RI) of the seven heavy metals and warrants special attention. By analyzing annual pollutant accumulations, predictions can be made about the heavy metal content in four cities within the Songnen Plain, enabling the issuance of early warnings regarding soil heavy metal risks. The findings suggest that without proactive measures to mitigate heavy metal accumulation in soils, Changchun and Songyuan will reach severe pollution levels by 2031 and 2029, respectively.

Pollution Assessment of Heavy Metals As, Cu, Pb and Zn in the Sirba Greenstone Belt Soils (Liptako, Niger)

The Sirba greenstone belt was Niger's main gold province. Soil geochemical data from the Sirba gold prospecting campaign carried out from 1989 to 1994 by the Japanese International Cooperation, prior to the advent of gold mining in the region were used in this work. The aim of this work was to establish geochemical background and to assess soil pollution for As, Cu, Pb and Zn. Geochemical data from 16,696 soil samples (analyzed by AAS) had been used to define geochemical background. The median method to calculate the threshold value on log-transformed data was used. Geochemical background data were used to assess the pollution of each element using the Contamination Factor, and multi-element pollution using the Pollution Load Index. The geochemical background values obtained were: As (27 mg/Kg), Cu (151.99 mg/Kg), Pb (12.50 mg/Kg) and Zn (145 mg/Kg). Soil Contamination Factor values for As (Min = 0.02, Mean = 0.99, Max = 442.07), Cu (Min = 0, Mean = 0.31, Max = 8.95), Pb (Min = 0.04, Mean = 0.29, Max = 43.12) and Zn (Min = 0, Mean = 0.39, Max = 8.58), and Pollution Load Index values (Min = 0.01, Mean = 0.28, Max = 3.86) show higher arsenic contamination and some samples with high global pollution (PLI &gt; 1). The pollution and gold mining areas were mainly developed in the soils with high arsenic Contamination Factor values. The arsenic in the soils of the Sirba was therefore thought to have originated from gold mineralization.

Residual heavy metals and antibiotic pollution in abandoned breeding areas along the northeast coast of Hainan Island, China.

To assess the environmental status of an abandoned aquaculture and breeding area in the northeast coast of the Hainan Island, surface and well water, sediment and surface soils were sampled and analyzed for conventional physicochemical properties, heavy metals and antibiotics. Metagenome tests were also conducted to determine the composition and diversity of the microbial community in typical habitats. Affected by the discharge of wastewater from higher-place pond aquaculture, coastal freshwater rivers have undergone significant salinization, Cl- and Na+ were as high as 4.51×103 and 1.42×103mg/L. The 3 hand-pumped wells surveyed were also suffered from varying degrees of salinization and heavy metal pollution, especially the threat of arsenic pollution. Compared with the local background values, significantly higher valves of Cu, Zn, As and Cd were observed in the surface soil and sediment, and the average concentrations for Cu, Zn, As and Cd are 5.71, 17.6, 15.4 and 0.09mg/kg respectively. For As，the Nemerow index ranges from 7 to 16 and the geoaccumulation index is between 2 and 4, indicating moderate to severe pollution levels in surface soil. 14 antibiotics were detected in the soil and sediment samples, and the highest total amount was 73μg/kg, with tetracycline being the dominant antibiotic. Sediment and forest soil showed different microbial community and the genetic diversity index of sediment was lower than that of the forest soils. For typical vegetation soil, the genetic diversity followed the order as P. elliottii × P. caribaea>Eucalyptus > C. equisetifolia. Among the soil and sediment samples, the highest abundances of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) were associated with elfamycin, peptide, rifamycin, and the most common antibiotic resistance mechanisms were antibiotic target alteration (54.5%), antibiotic efflux (27.6%) and antibiotic target replacement (12.1%). The metal resistance genes (MRGs) for Cu, Fe, and Zn resistance were the main MRGs in the samples. This study identified the potential ecological environment risk factors in the abandoned coastal breeding areas, and suggested continuous monitoring and assessment of the residual pollutant abatement processes in the future.

Characteristics, Risk Assessment of Microplastics, and Heavy Metal Pollution in Farmland Soils in the Upper Hanjiang River

To investigate the pollution of microplastics and heavy metals from farmland soils in the upper Han River, the pollution status and distribution characteristics of pollutants were systematically analyzed. The risk level of pollutants was evaluated using methods such as the potential ecological risk index （RI）. Source apportionment was identified using correlation analysis and cluster analysis. The results showed that ① The abundance of microplastics in farmland soils in the upper Hanjiang River ranged from 360 to 6 300 n·kg-1, with an average abundance of 2 300.73 n·kg-1； the shapes were mainly films （50.00%）； and the majority of the particle sizes were less than 0.5 mm （64.31%）. Polymers of microplastics were PP, PE, PA, PET, and PS. SEM analysis revealed that the surface of microplastics was characterized as rough, porous, cracked, and torn. ② Within the ten heavy metals （V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb） that were measured, the average concentrations of heavy metals Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were higher than the background values by 1.28, 1.15, 1.91, and 1.34 times, respectively, while the other metals were lower than the background values, and none of the heavy metals exceeded the screening values for pollution risks in the soil environmental quality standard. ③ The study area had moderate microplastic pollution, with a risk level of Ⅱ, and low ecological risk from heavy metal pollution. The compound effect of microplastics and heavy metals needs to be assessed. ④ A significant correlation was observed between microplastics and the content of heavy metals Cr, Ni, As, Cd, and Pb in farmland soils. The sources of pollutants were agricultural-traffic sources, natural-agricultural sources, and natural-industrial sources.

Characteristics, Health Risks, and Source Analysis of Heavy Metal Pollution in Surface Soil in Shanxian County

Soil heavy metal （HM） pollution is a prominent global environmental problem. Understanding the risk characteristics and quantitative analysis of potential sources of soil HM pollution is of great significance for accurate prevention and control, scientific management, and safe utilization of soil resources. In the surface soil of Shanxian County, the contents of eight HMs, such as As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn, were collected and identified in 330 surface soil samples. The HM pollution degree was evaluated using the accumulation index and enrichment index. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of HMs were evaluated using the health risk model designated by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment. The sources of HMs in topsoil were analyzed using correlation analysis, principal component analysis, cluster analysis, absolute principal component score-multiple linear regression （APCS-MLR）, and other qualitative and quantitative methods. The results showed that all eight HM elements in the surface soil samples were lower than the background values and the screening values of agricultural land soil pollution risk in Heze City. According to Igeo and EF evaluation, only approximately 5% of Hg samples were slightly polluted, and the other seven HMs were non-polluted or slightly polluted. The carcinogenic risk and non-carcinogenic risk of As for adults and children in surface soil were at tolerable levels, and the carcinogenic risk and non-carcinogenic risk of the other seven HMs for adults and children could be ignored. The main sources of Cd, Cu, Zn, Ni, and As in the surface soil were natural background sources； the main sources of Cr and Hg were agricultural breeding sources and industrial coal sources, respectively； and the main pollution sources of Pb included other unknown sources and natural background sources. The average contribution rates of natural background sources, agricultural breeding sources, industrial coal sources, and other unknown sources were 51.69%, 27.18%, 6.83%, and 14.31%, respectively, indicating that the main sources of heavy metals in the surface soil of Shanxian County were natural background sources, followed by agricultural breeding sources.

Distribution and Source-specific Ecological Risk Analysis of Soil Heavy Metals in South Hunan Province

To identify the spatial distribution patterns and assess the ecological risks associated with soil heavy metal pollution in the southern region of Hunan Province, a total of 362 surface soil samples were collected from the studied area. This study employed multivariate statistics and geographic information systems （GIS） to investigate the spatial distribution pattern of soil metals （Cd, Hg, As, Pb, Zn, Ni, Mn, Tl, and Sb）. Furthermore, the pollution sources and source-specific ecological risk of heavy metals were quantified by combining the positive matrix factorization （PMF） model and the comprehensive ecological risk index model. The results suggested that the mean concentration of soil metals in the study area exceeded the mean background values. Specifically, Cd, Hg, Pb, and Sb showed significant pollution levels and substantial spatial variability, with their concentrations reaching the background values by factors of 8.31, 9.12, 5.09, and 2.79, respectively. The spatial distribution of these heavy metals exhibited discernible patterns, with a higher concentration observed in western Chenzhou and a noticeable trend of increasing concentrations from the central region towards the periphery. The clusters with high concentrations of heavy metals were predominantly situated near industrial zones engaged in black metal smelting and processing and nonferrous metal mining and processing enterprises. Source apportionment indicated that the primary sources of soil heavy metals in the area were industrial activities associated with black metal mining and metallurgy （29.06%）, atmospheric deposition （22.05%）, nonferrous metal mining and processing （20.65%）, a combination of industrial and transportation sources （14.73%）, and natural sources （13.50%）. Moreover, the source-ecological risk assessment model specifically identified Cd and Hg as crucial elements requiring prioritized control measures to mitigate soil ecological risks. Industrial activities, including black metal smelting and processing and atmospheric deposition sources, were identified as the priority sources for health risks in the study region. These results provide an important theoretical basis for the development of effective strategies aimed at managing and diminishing the risks associated with heavy metal contamination in the southern region of Hunan Province.

Characteristics of Nitrogen Cycle-related Bacterial Community and Its Response to Soil in the Main Lead-zinc Mine Reclamation Area of Lanping

The nitrogen cycle has an important impact on the element cycle of the soil ecosystem. Moreover, it is important to clarify the key environmental factors of nitrogen cycle microorganisms for ecological restoration in mining areas. The functional flora can regulate the growth of vegetation by participating in the biogeochemical cycle of soil elements in the mining area, which is beneficial to the reclamation of the mining area. The Lanping lead-zinc mine is the largest open-pit lead-zinc mining area in Asia. The content of Cd in the soil of the mining area was 95.6-388.7 times the background value of heavy metal content in Yunnan Province, and it is urgent to carry out ecological restoration in the mining area. To explore the response of nitrogen cycling bacteria to the soil in a lead-zinc mine reclamation area, soil samples from the Lanping lead-zinc mine reclamation area were considered as the research object, and the effects of different nutrient gradients on nitrogen cycling functional microbial groups in the Lanping lead-zinc mine reclamation area were revealed using 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology, collinear network analysis, PCoA, Mantel test, and random forest. The results showed that the dominant bacteria were all from the unmarked species of Nitrosomonadaceae. The effect of lead and zinc on nitrogen cycling functional microorganisms in the lead-zinc mining area was limited, and the effects of organic matter and pH were greater. Ammonium nitrogen （NH4+-N）, nitrate nitrogen （NO3--N）, and pH were the key physical and chemical factors affecting nitrification, denitrification, and nitrogen-fixing microorganisms, respectively.

Characteristics and Comprehensive Quality Assessment of Heavy Metals in Soil-crop System of High Geological Background Area

Heavy metals （HMs） pollution in agricultural soil-rice systems has attracted worldwide attention as it directly threatens regional ecological security and human health. To understand the heavy metal pollution of agriculture soil and rice in the high geological background areas, a total of 200 paddy soil and rice samples were collected in southeast Chongqing. The concentrations of arsenic （As）, cadmium （Cd）, chromium （Cr）, copper （Cu）, mercury （Hg）, nickel （Ni）, lead （Pb）, and zinc （Zn） in paddy soil and rice were analyzed. The comprehensive impact index （IICQ） was used to evaluate the quality of heavy metals in soil-rice. The results showed that the mean concentrations of As, Cd, Cr, Hg, and Pb in soil were higher than their corresponding background values of Chongqing soil and the average values of Chinese surface soil, indicating the accumulation of HMs enrichment of these metals in the paddy soils. Compared with China's soil environmental quality standard of agricultural land （GB 15618-2018）, only 20.5% of rice samples containing Cd exceeded the national food safety standard （GB 2762-2022）, though the Cd and Hg sample contamination rates of the sampling sites were 82% and 22.5%, respectively. The evaluation results of heavy metal pollution, such as Cd in soil and crops, were quite different. With the increase in soil pH value, the average content of Cd in the soil gradually increased, but the average content of Cd in rice seeds decreased by 0.245 mg·kg-1, and the excess rate of rice seeds decreased by 42.14%. The Cd content in rice seeds was significantly correlated with the Cd ion exchange state and water-soluble state in the soil. The higher the soil pH value, the lower the proportion of bioactive components in the soil, and the pH of the soil was the main factor affecting the safety of rice in the study area. The comprehensive quality evaluation results showed that moderate and severe pollution were the main pollution levels in the study area, but most of the rice seeds were in a clean state, a few were slightly polluted, and none showed mild or above pollution. The basic safety of rice was in the alkaline area with a pH&gt;7.5. In strongly acidic soil with pH&lt;5.5 and below, the excess rate of rice seeds could reach 45%. Moreover, it is recommended to apply quicklime or calcareous soil conditioner to improve soil acidification, reduce the activity of Cd bioactive components, and improve the safety of rice and other agricultural products.

A proposed methodology for the definition of background and reference values for trace elements in fluvial sediments.

The Water Framework Directive (WFD, 2000/60/EC) mandates member states to consider trace element background values when establishing environmental quality standards (EQS) for sediments. This study proposes defining the "background" value as the trace element concentration that is consistently present in the unaltered natural environment, and the "reference" value as an upper limit of variation of naturally occurring concentrations, suggestive of anthropogenic enrichment if exceeded. We argue that background and reference values can be computed as the upper limits of the one-sided 95 % confidence interval for the median and for the 90th percentile, respectively. This proposition has been tested in two European river basins with different historical anthropogenic impacts: the Nalón (impacted by mining activities) and the Esva (mostly unpolluted) basins. For 110 bottom sediment samples collected from both pristine (background) and potentially impacted (non-background) locations, 19 elements were analyzed by ICP-MS/ICP-AES. The proposed background and reference values, calculated using the Bootstrap method, demonstrated consistency despite geological differences between the basins. The methodology proved particularly effective in datasets with a limited sample size and highly skewed data distributions. In the Nalón basin, with higher anthropogenic activity, the percentage of samples exceeding reference values was higher than in the Esva basin (e.g., 29 % vs 7 % for As and 11 % vs 0 % for Pb), suggesting the utility of these values in discerning potential impacts of historic mining activities. In the Esva basin, background and reference values were either near or below generic thresholds for good ecological status (LEL, TEL) unlike the Nalón basin, in which reference values for all elements, except three, exceeded these thresholds.

Dynamic estimation of the soil environmental carrying capacity for Benzo(a)pyrene in an industrial city, China: Insight from both duration and rate of regional emission.

An in-depth investigation of the maximum environmental load is crucial for soil security and pollution prevention. This research focused on soil environmental carrying capacity (SECC) for different risk receptors in a Chinese industrial city. By determining risk threshold for various land use types, we integrated mass balance and iterative models to capture dynamic net input fluxes with spatial heterogeneity. This enabled quantitative characterization of Benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) SECC through top-down and bottom-up approaches (corresponding to duration (D) and rate of regional emission, respectively). The thresholds were in the order of agricultural land<residential land<forest<industrial land<park. The top-down analysis showed D increased ∼1.5x with a 5% input flux decline until 2031. The bottom-up analysis suggested industrial emissions decreased by approximately 10% as the pollution control period was extended from 20 to 50 years. Both methods showed that at maximum background values (C0), D was ∼4x and the industrial emission rate was ∼10% higher than at minimum C0. SECC values near industrial areas significantly decreased, even reaching negative values, signifying complete carrying capacity loss. This study provided an approach to the dynamics of SECC under diverse scenarios, aiding informed decision-making for sustainable land management.

Modelling indoor radical chemistry during the HOMEChem campaign.

In the indoor environment, occupants are exposed to air pollutants originating from continuous indoor sources and exchange with the outdoor air, with the highest concentration episodes dominated by activities performed indoors such as cooking and cleaning. Here we use the INdoor CHEMical model in Python (INCHEM-Py) constrained by measurements from the House Observations of Microbial and Environmental Chemistry (HOMEChem) campaign, to investigate the impact of a bleach cleaning event and cooking on indoor air chemistry. Measurements of the concentrations of longer-lived organic and inorganic compounds, as well as measured photolysis rates, have been used as input for the model, and the modelled hydroxyl (OH) radicals, hydroperoxyl radicals, and nitrous acid (HONO) concentrations compared to the measured values. The peak modelled OH, , and HONO concentrations during cooking and cleaning activities are about 30%, 10%, and 30% higher than the observations, respectively, within experimental uncertainties. We have determined rates for the rapid loss of HONO formed through cooking activities onto a wet surface during the cleaning events and also for the subsequent slow release of HONO from the cleaned surface back into the gas-phase. Using INCHEM-Py we have also predicted peak concentrations of chlorine (Cl) atoms, (0.75-2.3) × 105 atom per cm3 at the time of cleaning. Model predictions of the Cl atom and OH radical reactivities were also explored, showing high Cl atom reactivity throughout the day, peaking around 5000-9000 s-1. The OH reactivity was found to increase from a background value close to urban outdoor levels of 20-40 s-1, to levels exceeding observations in outdoor polluted areas following cooking and cleaning activities (up to 160 s-1). This underlines the high oxidation capacity of the indoor atmospheric environment through determining the abundance of volatile organic compounds.

Assessment of regional background values of bottom deposits at water bodies as their monitoring basis

Microelements Hg, Cd, Zn, Pb, Cu, Cr, Co, Ni, Fe, Mn, As are the most hazardous contaminants for water bodies. The study of bottom deposits in water reservoirs permits the authors us to reveal the endangered sites and determine the contamination sources. The estimation of the bottom sediment contamination by the above-listed microelements is given for a number of the Upper Volga regions, from the Upper Volga lakes to the Ivan’kovskoe water reservoir on the basis of comparing them with the background values for the deposits in the Upper Volga lakes. The results of bottom deposit contamination study have been assessed according to igeo-classes, i. e., the sorbing fraction (0.020 mm) contamination. The comparative analysis of the background microelement values is performed for the Upper Volga water bodies and the values adopted in Europe. The changes of these background values for the latest 20 years are assessed. As a result, it has been found out that for each major water system and for each geographical region, it is necessary to determine the regional background values of their own and to update data recurrently according to a common procedure. The results obtained permit the authors to conclude that despite numerous contamination sources, the technogenic load at the studied objects cannot be considered hazardous.

A novel conformable fractional-order accumulation grey model and its applications in forecasting energy consumption of China

Accurate forecasting of energy consumption demand is crucial to optimize resources and achieve sustainable development goals. However, the energy system is affected by many factors, which are complex and highly uncertain. Therefore, a novel grey model (IBCFGMP (1,1,N)) is proposed, integrating multiple optimization techniques such as background value optimization, initial condition optimization, fractional-order accumulation optimization, and grey action quantity optimization. First, this paper deduces the time response function of the optimization model. The relevant parameters of the model can be found using the particle swarm optimization algorithm. Then, the properties of the model are studied, and it is found that the optimized model have stronger universality and stability. Finally, the model is applied to predict and analyze the energy consumption of China. The prediction results indicate that China’s consumption of hydroelectricity, nuclear energy, and coal will be 12.693 exajoules, 5.550 exajoules, and 98.850 exajoules in 2026, respectively. The research results will provide a scientific basis for rationally optimizing resource allocation and realizing the sustainable development of clean energy.

The Performance of Teachers Perceptions in Interpersonal Communication in Elementary School Students in Medan City

Perception plays a crucial role in interpersonal communication, acting as the foundation for how individuals interpret and understand the messages they receive from others. Accurate perception enables clear communication, fostering mutual understanding and strengthening relationships, as it allows individuals to respond appropriately to the messages conveyed. On the contrary, inaccurate perceptions can result in misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and conflicts, often undermining the quality of communication. Various factors, such as personal experiences, cultural background, social context, and individual values, significantly influence how we perceive others and the situations we encounter. These influences can shape our attitudes and interpretations, sometimes leading to biased or distorted perceptions. For instance, our past experiences may lead us to make assumptions about others based on limited information, while cultural differences can affect how we interpret non-verbal cues or tone of voice. Thus, it is essential to develop self-awareness, which involves recognizing and reflecting on our own biases and perspectives. Active listening, which involves paying close attention to verbal and non-verbal cues and asking clarifying questions when needed, is also key in ensuring that we accurately perceive the messages others are trying to convey. Additionally, respecting and appreciating different points of view helps promote empathy and openness in communication, enabling individuals to understand and engage with others more effectively. By honing these skills, individuals can improve the accuracy of their perceptions, ultimately enhancing the quality of their interpersonal communication and fostering more positive and productive relationships.

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

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

SEISMICITY of the TERRITORY of BELARUS in 2020

A review of seismicity in the territory of Belarus within 2020 based on the data of 17 digital stations is presented. 65 seismic events with Kd=5.3–8.5 were recorded in 2020. All the earthquakes are confined to the southern part of the monitored zone, the Soligorsk mining region included. A comparison of the parameters NΣ and ΣE for 2020 with the long-term average annual estimates showed that the level of the seismic energy released in 2020 remained rather low, while the number of events recorded in the period under consideration was higher than the background values. No any stable correlation between the energy released and the number of seismic events was observed during the long-term period of 1983–2020.

Assessment of boreal forest pollution under the influence of aluminum smelter emissions in Irkutsk region of Russia

ABSTRACT The chemical element concentrations of Scots pine needles were used in this study to evaluate the contamination of the boreal forest by emissions from three aluminum smelters (AS) with different production technologies in the Irkutsk region (Russia). The test sites were located at varying distances and directions from aluminum smelters. The total area of the surveyed forests was approximately 10,000 km2. The concentration of 26 element-pollutants in the needles (fluorine, sulfur, heavy and light metals, and metalloids) was measured to classify the tree-stands according to their level of pollution. Based on the results of cluster analysis, four levels of tree contamination have been identified: low, moderate, high, and critical. The content of fluorine in needles at the critical level of tree-stands pollution was higher than background values by 35–62 times, aluminum by 6.9–10.5 times, sulfur by 2.5–3.2 times, and heavy metals and metalloids by 4.4–15.2 times. The level of tree crown defoliation reached 70–80%, needle life expectancy decreased up to 2–3 years. All morphological parameters were below the background level, especially the weight of the shoot and needles (by 4.3–6.3 times). A map-scheme showing the distribution of polluted trees was created. Generally, the largest volume of emissions, long period of operation, and aggressive technologies of Bratsk AS have the greatest negative impact on the state of forest ecosystems compared to Irkutk AS. In the area affected by Taishet AS emissions (a new high-tech enterprise) most of the surrounding tree-stands are in satisfactory condition.

Identification and Assessment of Toxic Substances in Environmental Justice Cases.

This study assessed heavy metal contamination in industrial solid waste (S1, S2, S3, and S4) from the Yangtze River Delta region, employing nine risk assessment methods including total content indices (e.g., Igeo, CF) and speciation indices (e.g., ICF, GCF). Four types of industrial solid waste not classified as hazardous but containing heavy metals were analyzed. Key findings revealed significant variability in risk assessments based on chemical speciation versus total content. For example, while S1, S3, and S4 exceeded background levels, S4 showed higher mobility of Pb, Cr (VI), Cu, Ni, and As despite lower overall content. Elements like Cd and Cr (VI) exhibited discrepancies between total content and speciation-based assessments due to low background values and high toxicity. Multi-element indices (DC, RI) indicated higher pollution degrees compared to speciation indices (GCF, GRI). These results underscore the need for integrating multiple assessment methods to accurately evaluate environmental risks in judicial practices.