Concentrations Of Various Elements Research Articles

Critical differences between typical arc magmas and giant porphyry Cu ± Au systems: Implications for exploration

Abstract Porphyry Cu, and porphyry Cu-Au deposits, are associated with arc magmatism and their ore-forming systems generally follow the magmatic evolution of typical arcs. However, most arc magmas are barren and giant economic porphyry Cu ± Au deposits are rare. In this study, we model variations in rare earth element concentrations in the evolving arc magmas and giant porphyry Cu ± Au systems to quantify the percentage of the fractionating minerals required to produce the observed changes. We find that, during the andesitic stage of fractionation, ore-forming systems in thick crusts fractionate ~35% more amphibole than an average of thick arc magma systems (the thick-crust reference suite) and that ore-forming systems in thin crusts fractionate twice as much amphibole as their equivalent thin-arc magma reference suite. Thick-crust ore-forming suites also fractionate ~50% less plagioclase, and thin-crust ore systems ~40% less plagioclase, than their associated reference suites during the same andesitic stage of fractionation. Taken together, these observations imply that ore-producing magmas are appreciably wetter than their associated barren reference suites. Our modelling also shows that 80% more amphibole is required to reproduce the andesite stage of fractionation in the thick-crust reference suite than in its thin-crust equivalent, suggesting that magmas produced under thick crusts are wetter than those produced under thin crusts. On the other hand, the chalcophile element contents of the thick- and thin-crust ore-forming systems are similar to and higher than those of the thick- and thin-crust reference suites, respectively. Therefore, we suggest that the high water content plays a critical role in the formation of giant porphyry Cu ore in thick crusts, whereas both high chalcophile contents and high water contents are required to form giant porphyry Cu-Au deposits in thin crusts. The high fraction of amphibole fractionation in giant economic porphyry suites, compared with their relevant reference suites, results in lower Y in the ore-associated suites and this difference increases with fractionation. As a consequence, plots of Y against MgO can be used to identify porphyries that have economic potential and are preferred to Sr/Y plots because they are less affected by the intense alteration associated with giant porphyry Cu ± Au deposits.

Assessment of the impact of irrigating with treated wastewater on soil and crop trace metal accumulation

ABSTRACT Water scarcity is growing quickly, especially in the arid and semi-arid regions along with the growing population. So, using treated wastewater in agricultural irrigation presents a sustainable approach, enhancing soil quality, increasing organic carbon levels, and improving crop productivity are achieved through this approach, concurrently reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Yet, escalating industrial effluent discharge raises concerns regarding trace metals in wastewater and associated health risks. Our study in the Tenth of Ramadan City focused on employing secondary treated mixed industrial and municipal wastewater for olives, mandarins, and guavas. Sampling wastewater, soil, and plant parts, we analyzed their properties and trace element concentrations, employing Visual MINTEQ for geochemical speciation. Adhering to the international guidelines, the wastewater exhibited acceptable pH and alkalinity but showed concerning trace element levels for irrigation. Differences in soil composition and trace element concentrations suggest potential contamination in soils irrigated with wastewater, raising concerns about health risks associated with elevated metal levels in plants. Variations in trace element concentrations in guavas, olives, and mandarins’ leaves and fruits were observed, with efficient translocation in olives, while mandarin and guava displayed reduced efficiency. Bioaccumulation Factor trends indicated species-specific metal uptake differences. Waste “Minimization Prioritization Tool categorized” trace element levels as of low concern. Daily Intake of Trace Metals and Health Risk Index highlighted the need for health risk assessment, especially for elevated Ni in mandarins and guavas. Regression findings emphasized soil factors influencing metal uptake in plants, highlighting the need for vigilant soil management to curb trace element contamination in agriculture, ensuring both food safety and environmental health. Therefore, water reuse adds contributes to sustainable development, which is three dimensions; Economic, Social and Environmental. It improves economics to utilize water that would be otherwise wasted, and by making water more productive. It improves the social dimension by addressing water scarcity and satisfying the increasing water demand for sustainable livelihoods. It also improves the environment by increasing wastewater treatment levels and reducing pollution.

Sources and distribution of trace elements in surface snow from coastal Zhongshan Station to Dome A (East Antarctica)

The spatial distribution and possible sources of Al, As, Cd, Fe, Mn, Pb, Sb, Ti, V, and Zn were investigated in 120 samples of surface snow collected along a ∼1260 km long traverse from coastal Zhongshan Station to the Antarctic ice sheet summit (Dome A or Dome Argus, at 4093 m a.s.l.). The chemical composition of snow samples was analyzed using microwave-assisted acid treatment with HNO3/HF to determine element concentrations, reflecting their abundance in the Earth's crust. The observed relative concentration pattern of elements in snow suggests a predominant contribution from soil and rock dust particles. The spatial distribution of total element concentrations along the traverse revealed higher values in inland areas compared to coastal areas. The annual deposition flux of elements in each sampling site indicates a significant decreasing trend in Al, Ti, Zn, Fe, Cd, As, and Pb from the coast to inland areas. Significant variations in element concentrations and fluxes observed along the Antarctic traverse suggest a notable influence of distance from the coast on snow deposition patterns. Soil dust from coastal ice-free areas and human activities in scientific stations are the primary sources of analyzed elements in coastal snow, with marine biogenic emissions playing a marginal role, likely contributing to As and Cd. The contribution of sea salt spray to surface snow element concentrations in the East Antarctic traverse is negligible. An analysis of backward trajectories confirmed that long-distance transport from the South American continent and local Antarctic research stations potentially contributes to Antarctic snow elements.

The Role of Fe, S, P, Ca, and Sr in Porous Skeletal Lesions: A Study on Non-adult Individuals Using pXRF.

Portable X-ray fluorescence is a new tool in the study of human bone. This research aims to investigate if variations in bone elemental concentrations are related with porous skeletal lesions (PSLs). One hundred well-preserved non-adult skeletons aged 0-11years were selected from the archaeological site Convent of São Domingos, Lisbon (18th-19th century). Measuring a standard reference material and calculating the technical error of measurement assured elemental data reliability. Moreover, measuring soil samples excluded possible contamination of bones with elements from the soil, except for Pb. Additionally, the Ca/P ratio indicates maintenance of bone integrity. Cribra cranii, orbitalia, humeralis, and femoralis were recorded as present/absent, and the estimated intra-/inter-observer errors were low. The multivariate analysis found higher odds of having cribra orbitalia (OR = 1.76; CI = 0.97-3.20) and cribra femoralis (OR = 1.42; CI = 0.73-2.74) in individuals with lower Fe and higher S. Furthermore, higher levels of P, Ca, and Sr increased the odds of individuals developing cribra femoralis (OR = 2.30; CI = 1.23-4.29). Age also correlated with increased odds of exhibiting cribra orbitalia (OR = 1.86; CI = 0.94-3.68), cribra femoralis (OR = 6.97; CI = 2.78-17.45), and cribra humeralis (OR = 8.32; CI = 2.71-25.60). These findings suggest a shared etiology for these three cribras, contrasting with the higher Fe levels in individuals with cribra cranii. Lower Fe and higher S levels in individuals with cribra suggest a complex etiology, possibly involving conditions like megaloblastic or chronic disease anemia(s). Age-related elemental changes support the hypothesis that age influences cribra frequencies. This study highlights PSL complexity and opens new avenues for research.

Characterization of cross-continental PM2.5: Insights into emissions and chemical composition

Atmospheric fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a critical indicator of air quality, with substantial implications for human health. Understanding the emission sources and chemical composition of PM2.5 is crucial for mitigating possible adverse health effects. This study spans five diverse cities on three continents from north and south hemisphere: Stockholm (Sweden), Kyoto (Japan), Limeira, Ribeirão Preto, and Cáceres (Brazil). Our objective was to assess PM2.5 chemical composition and regional and long-range transport influences to identify the main sources of particulate air pollution at these cities during the winter/dry seasons. All studied cities but Kyoto exhibited PM2.5 levels above World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, with the Brazilian cities experiencing the highest fine particle pollution levels, implying increased adverse health risks. We observed significant variations in concentrations of polycyclic aromatic compounds (PACs), monosaccharide anhydrides (MAs), and inorganic elements. Limeira exhibited the highest levels of total PACs (median level of 12.4 ng m−3), while Cáceres displayed high variability of PACs, most likely due to episodic regional wildfire events. MA concentrations were significantly higher in Limeira and Ribeirão Preto and together with elevated levels of retene and potassium (K) they suggested a substantial influence of biomass burning. Backward air mass trajectory analysis suggested widespread Amazon and Savanna wildfires along with local fires as main contributors for these sites. All source identification approaches highlighted differences among the cities, with Stockholm and Kyoto showing influence of sources related to traffic emissions, waste burning, and long-range transport, and Brazilian cities traffic, industrial, biogenic, and more evident biomass burning. This cross-continental study provides valuable insights into PM2.5 composition and emission sources, emphasizing the impact of different emissions on air quality. Our findings underscore the importance of local strategies to mitigate air pollution and protect public health, especially in regions where PM2.5 levels consistently exceed recommended guidelines.

Diagenetic development of rhizoliths in the Ironshore Formation (Pleistocene) of the Cayman Islands

Rhizoliths in the Ironshore Formation on the Cayman Islands, up to 12 cm in diameter and 1 m long, developed in skeletal grainstones that accumulated on sand flats above high tide level. Internally, these well-preserved rhizoliths are characterized by well-defined concentric zones, centered around the central root opening, that reflect radial variations in calcite–aragonite content, decreases in micrite content, increases in porosity, and radial variations in trace element (e.g., Ca, Ni, S, Si, and Sr) concentrations. The stable isotopes, δ13C and δ18O, which vary in accord with the internal zones are more variable than the δ13C and δ18O of the host sediments. For the rhizoliths there is a high correlation between the δ13C and δ18O values and the calcite content. The contrast between the rhizoliths and their host sediments is largely a reflection of the more intense diagenetic processes that were largely mediated by the microbial populations that were concentrated in the rhizosphere that developed around each plant root. Microbial activity, which mediated micritization of the skeletal sands and micrite precipitation in the intergranular pores, was largely responsible for development of the internal zonation in the rhizoliths. Use of the δ13C values to determine if the rhizoliths developed in association with C3 or C4 vegetation failed because the δ13C values correlate with the calcite content that developed largely as diagenetic products.

Mathematical Model of Closed Microecosystem “Algae – Heterotrophic Bacteria”

Model of closed microecosystem “algae - heterotrophic bacteria” is proposed in this paper. Mathematical model is the Cauchy problem for system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. To develop the model the Liebig’s law of the minimum is consistently used for both specific rate of biomass growth and specific death rate of algae and bacteria cells. To describe the specific rate of substrate utilization by algae and bacteria the Andrew’s model (substrate inhibition) is used. It is assumed that specific death rate of algae and bacteria cells increases with decreasing substrate concentration. It is also assumed that carbon and nitrogen are main biogenic elements, and in the system they are in the form of mineral substrate (CO2, NO2, NO3, NH4) and biological substrate (proteins, lipids and carbohydrates). Mathematical model describing time variations in concentration of elements of microecosystem is formulated under the following assumptions: 1) stoichiometric coefficients of algae and bacteria cells are constant in the development of microecosystem; 2) utilization of carbon and nitrogen by algae and bacteria occurs independently; 3) oxygen produced by algae cells during photosynthesis completely covers the demand for oxygen for algae and bacteria cells. To verify the proposed model experimental data for microecosystems «Clorella vulgaris – Pseudomonas sp.» и «Scenedesmus obliquus – Pseudomonas sp.» are used. These systems were studied in laboratory conditions, and concentrations of elements of microecosystems in stationary state were obtained. Parameters of functions describing specific rate of utilization of biogenic elements were derived from experimental data for growth kinetics of algae and bacteria. Concentration of the biomass in stationary state obtained with the use of the proposed model is in reasonable agreement with experimental data.

Spatial Variations in Element Concentrations in Saudi Arabian Red Sea Mangrove and Seagrass Ecosystems: A Comparative Analysis for Bioindicator Selection

Spatial Variations in Element Concentrations in Saudi Arabian Red Sea Mangrove and Seagrass Ecosystems: A Comparative Analysis for Bioindicator Selection

Compositional zoning of the Otowi Member of the Bandelier Tuff, Valles caldera, New Mexico, USA

Abstract The Otowi Member of the Bandelier Tuff erupted at ca. 1.60 Ma from the Valles caldera (New Mexico, USA). It consists of as much as 400 km3 (dense rock equivalent) of strongly differentiated high-silica rhyolite and shows systematic upward variations in crystallinity, mineral chemistry, and trace element concentrations through its thickness, but the major element composition is almost constant and is near the low-pressure granite minimum. Incompatible trace elements in whole pumice fragments and glasses show well-correlated linear covariations. Upward zoning to lower abundances of incompatible trace elements is accompanied by development of overgrowths on quartz and alkali feldspar, although earlier-formed interiors of quartz and feldspar have near-constant compositions throughout the tuff, modified by cation diffusion in the case of feldspar. Melt inclusions in remnant quartz cores show diverse Pb isotope ratios, pointing to a wide range of distinct protoliths that contributed rhyolitic melt to the Otowi magma. Mineral thermometers suggest a modest temperature gradient through the melt body, perhaps of 40 °C, at the time of eruption. Chemical, textural, and mineralogical variations and volume-composition relations through the tuff are consistent with an origin for zoning by melting of a high-crystallinity cumulate layer beneath cognate supernatant liquid to produce denser, remobilized liquid of accumulative composition (i.e., the “modified mush model”). Melting may have occurred in several episodes. The latest of these episodes, probably thousands of years prior to eruption, introduced new rhyolitic liquid into the system and was associated with a thermal excursion, recorded in core compositions of pyroxene, during which much of the earlier crystal mass was dissolved. This left inherited cores and interiors of accumulated quartz and feldspar mantled with new growth having less-evolved compositions (higher Ti, Sr, and Ba). Changing solubility of zircon during cumulate melting produced a reversal of Zr concentrations. There is no clear petrologic evidence of a recharge eruption trigger; nonetheless, compositional zoning resulted mainly from repeated recharge-induced remobilization of quartz-feldspar cumulate. The Otowi system was built, evolved, and modified by several events over the course of a few hundred thousand years.

Neutronic Activation of Amazon Technogenic Deposit Soil Used as Raw Material in Brick Manufacture

Considering the extraction of soil from Technogenic Deposits, may result in the risk, this article investigated whether in the brick making process, there is a possibility that chemical elements, considered linked to human illness, may have evidence of release to the environment. The adopted strategy was to subject both the soil, as well as the brick manufactured with this soil, to the Neutronic Activation test, later, through the mass balance, to verify the variations in the global concentrations of chemical elements. The results show that of the 27 elements analyzed, 25 showed a reduction in their concentrations after the burning of the soil. As the systematic literature review points out, the release of these chemical elements to the environment, is intrinsically linked to the decrease in the environmental quality of the built environment, therefore, it is an indication of possible risks for human health.

Plant functional traits mediate the response magnitude of plant-litter-soil microbial C: N: P stoichiometry to nitrogen addition in a desert steppe

Global nitrogen deposition is significantly altering the carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometry in terrestrial ecosystems, yet how N deposition simultaneously affects plant-litter-soil-soil microbial stoichiometry in arid grassland is still unclear. In a five-year experimental study conducted in a desert steppe in Northern China, we investigated the effects of N addition on the C:N:P stoichiometry of plants, litter, soil, and soil microbes. We also used structural equation modelling (SEM) exploring the direct or indirect effects of N addition, plant species diversity, functional traits and diversity, soil microbial diversity, soil pH, soil electrical conductivity (EC) and moisture on the stoichiometry in plant-soil system. The results showed that N addition increased the N, P concentrations and N:P in plants, the N concentration and N:P in litter, and the C, N concentrations, C:P and N:P in microbes. Conversely, it decreased the C:N and C:P in plants, and litter C:N. Functional traits, functional dispersion (FDis), soil pH and EC accounted for a substantial proportion of the observed variations in elemental concentrations (from 42 % to 69 %) and stoichiometry (from 9 % to 73 %) across different components. SEM results showed that N addition decreased C:N and C:P in plants and litter by increasing FDis and leaf N content, while increased plant and litter N:P by decreasing leaf C content and increasing specific leaf area, respectively. Furthermore, N addition increased microbial C:P by increasing leaf thickness. We also found the mediating effects of soil pH and EC on C:N, C:P of litter and microbial N:P. Overall, our research suggests that plant functional traits as key predictors of nutrient cycling responses in desert steppes under N addition. This study extends the application of plant functional traits, enhances our understanding of C and nutrient cycling and facilitates predicting the response of desert steppes to N deposition.

Physiochemical Characteristics Analysis of Garrah River Water at Shahjahanpur, Ganga River Basin, Uttar Pradesh, India

This study focuses on the physiochemical analysis of the Garrah River in Shahjahanpur, within the Ganga River Basin, Uttar Pradesh, India. The research evaluates the impact of various pollutants, including industrial and municipal sewage, on the river's water quality. Water samples were collected from three locations along the river, representing different pollution levels. The analysis included parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), total suspended solids (TSS), color, odor, electrical conductivity, temperature, chemical oxygen demand (COD), salinity, and the concentrations of various elements. The findings showed variations in water quality parameters, with DO, TSS, COD, and heavy metals indicating significant pollution, particularly downstream. Color and odor also suggested pollution from nearby industries. The study revealed that some parameters exceeded WHO standards for drinking water, raising concerns about health risks from exposure to contaminants like chromium. Urgent actions are required to treat municipal sewage and industrial effluents before discharging into the Garrah River. This research highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and sustainable management of water resources in the Ganga River Basin to protect the ecosystem and local communities. It underscores the importance of improving water quality in the region.

CONTENT OF ELEMENTS IN AYURVEDIC MEDICINAL PLANTS ANALYZED BY USING FAAS INSTRUMENTS

In this present study total four different family medicinal plants namely Azadirachta indica, Cascabela thevetia, Ficus benghalensis and Cassia angustifolia leaves parts collected from the different places of Bidar, Kalaburagi & Yadgir districts. By using standard ratio of FAAS instruments, the solution samples for analysis of elements were prepared. Further analysis of the total 7 essential elements like Mg, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, As and Pb were done respectively. The Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (FAAS) is analytical, or radiation source instrument and it is useful for the quantitative analysis of any materials. The average concentration of elements varied between 0.01 mg/L to 1.7 mg/L in all 4 studied Ayurvedic medicinal plants. Here Mg and Pb concentration found to be in higher range, compared to the other elements. Further all studied elemental content were found to be under the permissible limits of WHO. Results could be useful in study of metabolic, enzymatic and physical activity of the samples and also useful for the new modern medicinal preparations. The variations of elemental concentrations in environmental samples were dependents on earth geological soil formation.

Heavy Metal Concentration in Harmattan Dust across Selected Stations in Nigeria

Abstract: The atmospheric assessment of elements and heavy metals concentrations contained in Harmattan dust samples is addressed in this research. From November 2017 to March 2018, suspended Harmattan dust was sampled using locally constructed Australian model gauges installed at each sampling points (Iwo, Oyo, Ilorin, Minna, Abuja, Lafia, and Jos). The gauges used stood around 5.0 meters tall and were made of 10.0 mm plastic bowls installed on a plastic container that was encased in a metal shell for support and stability. The concentrations of various elements and heavy metals included in suspended Harmattan dust across selected Nigerian cities were assessed using particle-induced x-ray emission (PIXE) technology. The samples were subjected to statistical analysis using the ANOVA test in order to discover the significant differences between the positions of the elements in the sample. The suspended Harmattan dust samples revealed the presence of the following eighteen elements: Na, Mg, Al, Si, P, S, Cl, K, Ca, Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, and Zr. Particle-induced x-ray emission (PIXE) demonstrated that these elements are present in various amounts. The samples contain both heavy metals (Ti, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Zr) and non-heavy metals (Na, Mg, Al, Si, Cl, K, Ca, Rb, and Sr). The study’s results indicate that the presence of heavy metals in Harmattan dust can be attributed to various activities within the country. Consequently, it is advised that further research be conducted in order to raise public awareness about environmental issues. Keywords: Harmattan, PIXE, Elements, Dust, Heavy metals.

Electrochemical behavior and cathodic nucleation mechanism of molybdenum ions in NaCl-KCl

The electrochemical behaviors of molybdenum ions in NaCl-KCl molten salt at 750 °C were studied in detail, and pure metallic molybdenum was collected on the cathode. The reduction and diffusion processes of molybdenum ions in NaCl-KCl molten salt were also identified using cyclic voltammetry and square wave voltammetry. The diffusion coefficient and nucleation mode of molybdenum ions were analyzed. Electrodeposition was performed at a constant voltage and the variation of current with time was recorded. The variation of Mo element concentration and the valence state of the molten salt bottom product was tested by in situ salt extraction during electrolysis. The result demonstrated that the electrode reduction process of molybdenum ion in NaCl-KCl molten salt at 750 °C was a two-step reaction, Mo(V) → Mo(III) → Mo, all of which was reversible and controlled by diffusion. Meanwhile, the nucleation mode of molybdenum ions was found to be progressive nucleation. It was determined by XRD, SEM and EDS that the primary component of the cathode deposition product was molybdenum.

Interannual variability in otolith biogeochemical signatures of Japanese Spanish mackerel in the Yellow Sea

Fishes often use multiple habitats to complete their life cycles, leading to their unique otolith biogeochemical signatures. Interannual variability in otolith biogeochemical signatures is expected as fish respond to annual environmental variations in their distribution areas. In this study, we focus on Japanese Spanish mackerel Scomberomorus niphonius, an abundant commercial species in the Yellow Sea. As highly migratory fish that undergo their entire migratory cycle in a year, S. niphonius is susceptible to environmental variations. Consequently, they are believed to exhibit discernibly distinct migration patterns and varying timings of ontogenetic events across different years. Otolith biogeochemical signatures of 1-year-old spawning adults S. niphonius caught in the Yellow Sea from 2016 to 2018 were measured from core to edge using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LAICP-MS). We hypothesized that the year-specific chemical signature could be found in 2016 as a strong El Niño Southern Oscillation event happened. From 2016 to 2018, converse ontogenetic changing patterns was observed for Sr/Ca and Ba/Ca, with Sr/Ca being positively correlated with sea surface salinity while Ba/Ca being negatively. As expected, the year-specific effect was identified for 2016 cohort but it was only significant on Ba/Ca. During this year, a stronger variation of elemental concentration and an earlier downward shift of Ba/Ca were found. These results provide evidence that otolith biogeochemical signatures have useful applications as natural tags, helping understand the interannual variability in migration of marine fish species.

Chronic drought alters extractable concentrations of mineral elements in Mediterranean forest soils

Soil mineral elements play a crucial role in ecosystem productivity and pollution dynamics. Climate models project an increase in drought severity in the Mediterranean Basin in the coming decades, which could lead to changes in the composition and concentrations of mineral elements in soils. These changes can have significant impacts on the fundamental processes of plant-soil cycles. While previous studies have predominantly focused on carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, there is a notable lack of research on the biogeochemical responses of other mineral elements to increasing drought. In this study, we investigated the effects of chronic drought (15 years of experimental rainfall exclusion) and seasonal drought (summer period) on the extractable soil concentrations of 17 mineral elements (arsenic (As), calcium (Ca), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), mercury (Hg), potassium (K), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), sulphur (S), strontium (Sr), vanadium (V) and zinc (Zn)) in a Mediterranean holm oak forest. We also explored the potential biotic and abiotic mechanisms underlying the changes in extractable elemental concentrations under chronic drought conditions. Our findings reveal that soil elemental concentrations varied significantly due to seasonal changes and chronic drought, with soil microclimate, biological activity, and organic matter being the main drivers of this variability. Levels of soil water content primarily explained the observed variations in soil elemental concentrations. Most of the mineral elements (13 out of 17) exhibited higher concentrations during winter-spring (wet seasons) compared to summer-autumn (dry seasons). The chronic drought treatment resulted in K limitation, increasing vegetation vulnerability to drought stress. Conversely, the accumulation of S in soils due to drought may intensify the risk of S losses from the plant-soil system. Under drought conditions, certain trace elements (particularly Mn, V, and Cd) exhibited increased extractability, posing potential risks to plant health and the exportation of these elements into continental waters. Overall, our results suggest that alterations in mineral element concentrations under future drier conditions could promote ecosystem degradation and pollution dispersion in the Mediterranean Basin. Understanding and predicting these changes are essential for effective ecosystem management and mitigating the potential negative impacts on plant health and water quality.

Variation in element contents among free-range turkey egg yolks and albumens analyzed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry

Poultry eggs are not only a source of nutrients for embryonic development, but also one of the main sources of food for humans. The demand for turkey eggs is increasing day by day due to their functional properties such as supporting muscle and cell formation and being beneficial to the immune and digestive systems. In addition, it contains essential elements such as iron at a reasonable level, which is among the reasons for the consumer's preference. The data on the element content of free-range turkey eggs, which is such an ancient food, is very scarce. This study focused on determining various element content of freerange turkey egg yolk and albumen by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). Within the scope of the research, sodium (Na), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), magnesium (Mg), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), boron (B), aluminum (Al), and lead (Pb) levels were determined in turkey egg yolk (n=52) and albumen (n=52) samples. Phosphorus was the most concentrated element in both egg yolk and albumen. Element contents in yolks were higher than those in albumen, except Na, K, B, Al, and Pb. The element with the lowest concentration was Al in turkey egg yolks, while Mg was the lowest analyzed element in albumens. This study separately exhibited the element content of turkey egg consumers in their preference for egg yolk or albumen

In-plasma analysis of plasma–surface interactions

During deposition, modification, and etching of thin films and nanomaterials in reactive plasmas, many active species can interact with the sample simultaneously. This includes reactive neutrals formed by fragmentation of the feed gas, positive ions, and electrons generated by electron-impact ionization of the feed gas and fragments, excited states (in particular, long-lived metastable species), and photons produced by spontaneous de-excitation of excited atoms and molecules. Notably, some of these species can be transiently present during the different phases of plasma processing, such as etching of thin layer deposition. To monitor plasma–surface interactions during materials processing, a new system combining beams of neutral atoms, positive ions, UV photons, and a magnetron plasma source has been developed. This system is equipped with a unique ensemble of in-plasma surface characterization tools, including (1) a Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometer (RBS), (2) an Elastic Recoil Detector (ERD), and (3) a Raman spectroscopy system. RBS and ERD analyses are carried out using a differentially pumped 1.7 MV ion beam line Tandetron accelerator generating a beam at grazing incidence. The ERD system is equipped with an absorber and is specifically used to detect H initially bonded to the surface; higher resolution of surface H is also available through nuclear reaction analysis. In parallel, an optical port facing the substrate is used to perform Raman spectroscopy analysis of the samples during plasma processing. This system enables fast monitoring of a few Raman peaks over nine points scattered on a 1.6 × 1.6 mm2 surface without interference from the inherent light emitted by the plasma. Coupled to the various plasma and beam sources, the unique set of in-plasma surface characterization tools detailed in this study can provide unique time-resolved information on the modification induced by plasma. By using the ion beam analysis capability, the atomic concentrations of various elements in the near-surface (e.g., stoichiometry and impurity content) can be monitored in real-time during plasma deposition or etching. On the other hand, the evolution of Raman peaks as a function of plasma processing time can contribute to a better understanding of the role of low-energy ions in defect generation in irradiation-sensitive materials, such as monolayer graphene.

Variation in essential mineral element and toxic trace element concentrations in the seeds of Sri Lankan rice varieties as affected by milling and soil fertility

Concentration of mineral elements in rice seeds may vary depending on the soil fertility status and seed polishing (milling). In order to test this, 54 rice varieties were grown in the fields used to cultivate rice either with or without applying fertilizers for over 40 years. Part of the seeds collected from those varieties was polished before using for element analyses using ICP-MS while the rest considered as unpolished seeds. When comparing unpolished rice seeds produced at fertilized and unfertilized sites, the concentrations of Mg, Ca, K, Mn, Co, Cu, As and Cd were decreased, and the concentrations of Na, Al, Fe, Zn, and Mo were unchanged from fertilized to unfertilized sites. When comparing unpolished and polished rice seeds produced at fertilized and unfertilized sites, seed Mg, K, Mn, Fe, Co and Zn concentrations were higher in unpolished seeds than those in polished seeds, and the concentrations of Na, Al, Mo, Cd, As and Pb were similar between polished and unpolished seeds. Estimated values revealed that rice contributed 4–15% of the daily requirement of Fe, Cu, Zn, and 50–60% Mo irrespective of the soil fertility and polishing. Seed concentrations of As, Pb and Cd were lower than the maximum allowable levels. However, rice consumption contributed to the daily intake of 4–8 µg as, 2–6.5 µg Cd, and 19–25 µg Pb. Improving soil fertility is required to enrich rice seeds with most of the micronutrients and the milling should be done with much care to minimize nutrient loss in human diet.