Search Results (313)

Ataúro Island, located in the inner Banda Arc, provides a natural laboratory to investigate the interplay between magmatic evolution, hydrothermal circulation, and near-surface weathering in an active arc–continent collision setting. This study presents the first systematic island-wide geochemical baseline for Ataúro Island, based on multi-element analyses of stream sediments integrated with updated geological, structural, and hydromorphological information. Compositional Data Analysis (CoDA–CLR–PCA), combined with anomaly mapping and spatial overlays, defines a coherent three-tier geochemical framework comprising: (i) a lithogenic component dominated by Fe–Ti–Mg–Ni–Co–Cr, reflecting the geochemical signature of basaltic to andesitic volcanic rocks; (ii) a hydrothermal component characterized by Ag–As–Sb–S–Au associations spatially linked to structurally controlled zones; and (iii) an oxidative–supergene component marked by Fe–V–Zn redistribution along drainage convergence areas. These domains are defined strictly on geochemical criteria and represent geochemical process domains rather than proven metallogenic provinces. Rare earth element (REE) systematics further constrain the geotectonic setting and indicate that the primary geochemical patterns are largely controlled by lithological and magmatic differentiation processes. Spatial integration of geochemical patterns with fault architecture highlights the importance of NW–SE and NE–SW structural corridors in focusing hydrothermal fluid circulation and associated metal dispersion. The identified Ag–As–Sb–Au associations are interpreted as epithermal-style hydrothermal geochemical enrichment and exploration-relevant geochemical footprints, rather than as evidence of confirmed or economic mineralization. Overall, Ataúro Island emerges as a compact natural analogue of post-arc geochemical system evolution in the eastern Banda Arc, where lithogenic background, hydrothermal fluid–rock interaction, and early supergene processes are superimposed. The integrated geochemical framework presented here provides a robust baseline for future targeted investigations aimed at distinguishing lithogenic from hydrothermal contributions and evaluating the potential significance of the identified geochemical enrichments. Full article

Trace elements are essential for organisms, and their involvement in diverse diseases is increasingly recognised. Interest is increasing in veterinary medicine, particularly in relation to canine diseases. However, reference intervals for trace elements in dogs remain scarce. Plasma samples from 140 dogs were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to determine the levels of 13 trace elements. Reference intervals (µg/L) were established for the following 12 elements: As, 0.417–8.17; Co, 0.039–1.33; Cr, 2.41–13.3; Cu, 296–790; Fe, 846–3643; Hg, 0.235–2.33; Ni, 0.567–9.04; Mn, 1.90–7.28; Mo, 1.43–12.7; Pb, 0.285–2.82; Se, 200–434; and Zn, 415–1095. However, Cd was below the limit of quantification in 77% of the samples. No differences in trace element concentrations were observed in relation to breed or reproductive status. Statistically significant differences were found in relation to sex (Cu, Mo, Zn), age (Co, Cu, Mo, Mn, Se, Zn), and size (Cu, Mo, Se, Zn); however, the magnitude of these effects varied among elements and was generally weak. Nevertheless, these factors should be considered when assessing trace element status. These reference intervals constitute an important resource for both clinical evaluation and future research. Full article

Around eight million people—mainly in cities—die prematurely from pollution-related diseases; thus, studies of urban dust have become increasingly relevant over the last two decades. In this study, an assessment of heavy metal and metalloid contamination in urban dust was conducted in downtown Murcia, Spain. The objectives were to evaluate the level of contamination and the associated health risks, both with a spatially explicit focus. One hundred and twenty-eight urban dust samples were collected, each from a 1-square-meter area, using plastic tools to prevent contamination. The dust was dried and weighed, then acid-digested before analysis via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Corresponding maps were then generated using a geographic information system. The elements analyzed in the urban dust (with their median concentrations, given in mg/kg) were As (2.14), Bi (14.06), Cd (0.38), Co (1.88), Cr (71.17), Cu (142.60), Fe (13,752), Mn (316.64), Mo (3.90), Ni (21.94), Pb (106.27), Sb (6.54), Se (4.34), Sr (488.08), V (28.05), and Zn (357.33). The sequence of median concentrations for the analyzed elements was Fe > Sr > Zn > Mn > Cu > Pb > Cr > V > Ni > Bi > Sb > Se > Mo > As > Co > Cd. The pollution assessment reveals that the city is moderately polluted. Using local background levels, the elements with median values exceeding the threshold for considerable contamination were As, Cu, Pb, Sb, Se, and Zn. Using the global background level, the elements with median values exceeding the threshold for considerable contamination were Bi, Cu, Mo, Pb, Sb, Se, and Zn. The median value of the sum of the hazard index (1.82) indicates a risk to children’s health. The hazard index revealed that 43% of the sites pose a relative risk to children. In contrast to previous global studies, the present research provides a multi-scale assessment of urban pollution and health risks. Pollution is evaluated by metal, city, zone, and site, while health risks are assessed by metal, city, and site. We recommend a strategy for both local authorities and residents. Full article

Monitoring trace metals in commercially important fish species provides an early warning of anthropogenic contamination and potential risk to consumers. This study semi-quantified and quantified essential, non-essential, and toxic elements in the muscle of wild meagre (Argyrosomus regius) captured in the Tagus estuary (Portugal), which is used as a nursery and spawning aggregation area. Dry muscle was microwave-digested and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectroscopy. Semi-quantified screening detected Al, B, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na, P, S, Si, Sr, and Ti, and eight elements were determined using multielement calibration (As, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Se, and Zn); Cd, Pb (toxic elements), Co, and Mo were not detected in this study. Arsenic was detected in all individuals, with a minimum value of 0.348 mg/kg wet weight. A mercury level above the European Commission regulatory limit (0.5 mg/kg wet weight) was only detected in one individual, corresponding to 2% of the samples. Although other metals remain well below regulatory limits, continued biomonitoring is recommended to track temporal trends and safeguard seafood safety in transitional coastal systems, which is important for commercially relevant fish species. Full article

Mt. Etna is the highest and most active stratovolcano in Europe, located in Catania (Sicily, Italy). Its persistent degassing, frequent explosions, and lava flows release large amounts of ash and gases into the atmosphere. This study aimed to assess whether chronic exposure to local volcanic emissions leads to an increased internal dose of trace elements (As, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Li, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Sn, Sr, Tl, U, V, W, Zn) in Catania adult residents. To this end, urine samples were collected from 167 individuals residing in Catania and compared with 193 residents of other Sicilian areas located farther from the volcano. Results revealed significantly higher urinary concentrations of As, Hg, Mn, Pb, and Tl in the exposed group, suggesting volcanic activity as a relevant source of exposure. The levels of the other elements were instead affected by other factors such as lifestyle habits and the consumption of specific foods and beverages. The urinary concentrations of trace elements were consistent with reference values reported in other European studies, and the levels remained well within the health-based guidance values. There is evidence of an increased internal dose of a few elements in the Sicilian population exposed to volcano activity, but the observed increases are unlikely to pose a significant health risk. Full article

Bacground/Objectives: Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) comprises a range of precancerous cervical lesions, and timely detection and intervention are essential to avert the development to invasive cervical cancer. Our previous study showed specific elemental alterations in the serum of patients with diagnosed CIN. In this study, we aimed to determine the levels of trace elements (Be, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Cd, Tl, Pb, Rb, Sr, Mo, Th, and U) in more valuable materials, cervical tissue samples collected from patients diagnosed with CIN 2 and 3 (n = 60). Methods: The control group consisted of healthy, pathologically unaltered samples from the same patients (n = 60). The concentrations of all trace elements were determined using inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Key demographic and clinical data were statistically analyzed in the context of trace element levels in cervical tissues. Results: We discovered that CIN 2 and CIN 3 tissues had significantly higher concentrations of essential trace elements Cr, Co, Se, and Mo, and toxic trace elements Be, Ni, and Cd compared to controls. The findings of this study highlight the differences in trace element concentrations in CIN tissue samples compared to controls. Conclusions: The presented results suggest the possible role of trace elements in the pathophysiological processes that lead to neoplasms in cervical tissues. The results provide initial and pivotal insight into the trace element concentrations in CIN tissues, which could aid further studies regarding cervical neoplasms and their pathogenesis. Full article

Kalanchoe laetivirens is widely consumed as a medicinal plant in rural and urban communities, traditionally used in folk medicine for treating inflammatory conditions and cancer. However, little is known about its elemental composition and the potential health risks associated with different preparation methods. This study aimed to evaluate concentrations of Al, As, Ba, Co, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Se, V, and Zn in raw leaves, tea infusions, and aqueous extracts, and to assess associated health risks. Elemental analysis revealed significant differences among preparations, with raw leaves presenting the highest concentrations, tea showing intermediate values, and aqueous extracts the lowest. For example, potassium (K) reached 15,399.31 ± 131.55 mg/kg in leaves and 12,249.97 ± 240.17 mg/L in tea, while arsenic (As) and lead (Pb) were also detected at concerning levels, with As at 5.98 ± 1.64 mg/L and Pb at 3.82 ± 0.179 mg/L in tea. Risk assessment was performed using the Chronic Daily Intake (CDI), Hazard Quotients (HQs), Hazard Index (HI), and Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR), considering different exposure frequencies. Results indicated phosphorus (P) as the dominant contributor to non-carcinogenic risk, with HI values exceeding safety thresholds in all scenarios, while arsenic was the primary carcinogenic element, with ILCR values up to 10⁻³ in tea. These findings highlight the influence of preparation methods on exposure levels and reinforce the need for continuous monitoring and regulatory guidelines to ensure the safe medicinal use of K. laetivirens. Full article

Cereal-based complementary foods are widely consumed by children, yet limited data exist on their elemental composition and potential health risks. This study quantified As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, Mg, Mo, Ni, P, Pb, Se, Si, V, and Zn in eight commercial cereal-based products collected in Campo Grande, Brazil, using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, and chromium were consistently below the detection limit. Phosphorus and potassium were the predominant elements across brands, followed by Fe, Mg, and Zn, with significant inter-brand variability (Kruskal–Wallis, p < 0.05). Lead was detected in Brands 1–5 (0.11–0.41 mg/kg), but it was below the limit of detection (LOD = 0.003 mg/L) in the other samples. Estimated daily intake (DI) values at 30 g/day and 90 g/day showed that Fe, Zn, Mn, and Se frequently met or exceeded dietary reference intakes for children aged 1–3 years, while Cu, Ni, and P remained below tolerable levels. Comparison with tolerable upper intake levels and ATSDR minimal risk levels indicated that higher consumption (90 g/day) could result in excess intake of Mn, Zn, and Se, with Pb contributing to cumulative hazard indices above the safety threshold (HI > 1). These findings emphasize the dual role of cereal-based foods as important nutrient sources and potential contributors to excessive trace element exposure in young children. Full article

Mixing zones in carbonate coastal aquifers are dynamic interfaces where freshwater and seawater converge, triggering complex biogeochemical processes. This study investigates diagenetic barite (BaSO₄) precipitation within such a mixing zone in the dolomitic aquifer of the Sierra de Gádor (SE Spain). Three sectors were analyzed: two active mixing zones—one associated with submarine discharge and the other affected by marine intrusion—and an uplifted, fossilized Pleistocene mixing zone. Mineralogical, petrographic, and geochemical analyses reveal extensive dissolution of the dolomitic bedrock, forming polygonal voids and fracture-controlled porosity, frequently covered by Fe and Mn oxides. Barite crystals were identified exclusively in the Fe oxide precipitates at depths where 80% of seawater is reached. The saturation index for barite in groundwater suggests near-equilibrium conditions across the fresh–brackish–saline transition; however, barite precipitation is localized where Fe oxides act as a geochemical barrier, concentrating Ba and enabling nucleation. SEM imaging shows well-formed euhedral barite crystals up to 100 µm in size. This form of crystallization would be similar to the marine diagenetic barite formation models involving organic matter degradation and Ba remobilization, translated to a coastal aquifer setting in this study. Trace metal analyses show significant enrichment of Pb (up to 20 wt%) and other elements (Zn, Ni, and Co), suggesting potential for ore-forming processes if redox conditions shift. This work proposes a conceptual model for diagenetic barite formation in coastal aquifers, emphasizing the role of Fe and Mn oxides as reactive substrates in metal cycling at the land–sea interface. Full article

Tattoos and permanent makeup involve intradermal pigment deposition and may introduce toxic trace elements into the body. Despite increasing popularity, harmonized EU regulations on tattoo ink composition only came into force in 2022 under REACH. This study evaluated the chemical safety of 41 commercially available inks in the EU following the implementation of these restrictions. Twelve heavy metals were analyzed (Cd, Pb, As, Hg, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cr, Co, Sb, Se, Mn). Copper showed the highest concentrations (mean 1751 mg/kg; max 25,701 mg/kg), while cadmium was lowest (mean 0.13 mg/kg). Exceedances of EU limits were recorded for Ni (24 samples), As (20), Cr(VI) (16), Cu (10), Sb (8), Co (6), and Pb (5); mercury was not detected in any ink. Dermal exposure was modeled across three tattooing scenarios using SED, MoS, HQ, and LCR indicators. Unacceptable non-cancer risk (MoS < 100) was mainly associated with copper (up to 85.4% of products), with additional concerns for zinc and arsenic (~50% of samples in higher-use scenarios). HQ values > 1 were most frequent for Ni, Cr(VI), and Cu, affecting up to 68.3%, 43.9%, and 58.5% of inks, respectively. Lifetime cancer risk above 1 × 10⁻⁴ was observed for nickel in several products. Despite recently tightened European regulations, a substantial share of inks remains non-compliant and may pose carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks, underscoring the need for continued market surveillance and enforcement. Full article

Managed aquifer recharge (MAR) can address challenges pertaining to water quality and security, land subsidence, and aquifer degradation. This study has been conducted in the irrigated plains of Indus River Basin (IRB) of Pakistan, where groundwater is being used for drinking, agriculture, industries, and other commercial purposes and where the Punjab Government is implementing the MAR project. The study aims to assess the existing level of heavy metals and trace elements contamination in the groundwater and to set baseline data for the suitability of the site for the MAR project. Groundwater samples from 20 tubewells were collected from an area of 1522 km² to investigate the level of heavy metals concentration in groundwater and to assess its suitability for irrigation and drinking. Samples were analyzed for Aluminum (Al), Arsenic (As), Barium (Ba), Cadmium (Cd), Cobalt (Co), Copper (Cu), Chromium (Cr), Lead (Pb), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Nickel (Ni), Selenium (Se), Strontium (Sr), and Zinc (Zn). To elucidate the contamination trend of these metals, the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI), Heavy Metal Index (HI), geostatistical description, Pearson correlation analysis, and geospatial mapping were employed. Results showed that groundwater in the study area is not suitable for drinking and may pose serious health risks. It should be, however, generally suitable for irrigation. This concludes that the site is suitable for the implementation of a MAR project where the intended use of groundwater is for irrigation. It has been recommended that the groundwater may not be used for direct human consumption in the study area. It has been recommended, too, that targeted monitoring of identified hotspots and assessment of soil and crop uptake are conducted so that industrial or wastewater discharge into irrigation supplies may be prevented and controlled. For policy decisions, distinguishing irrigation suitability from potable-water safety is essential. Full article

In addition to the minerals naturally present in grapes, wine can acquire additional minerals during its production and storage from materials that come into contact with it, including bottling materials. This study aimed to evaluate the concentration of a wide range of elements in white wine samples packaged in 0.75 L green glass bottles sealed with two different closure systems: natural cork stoppers and metal screw caps with a plastic liner. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two closure types for most elements (Li, Be, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, Se, Rb, Sr, Mo, Sb, Cs, Ba, and Tl). For V, Cr, Mn, Cu, As, Cd, and Pb, some differences were observed, but without a clear pattern. However, the concentration of Sn was significantly higher in wines packaged in bottles sealed with metal screw caps plus plastic liner. Elemental analysis of the original, unused liners showed negligible content of Sn and other studied elements, suggesting that the Sn in the wine comes from the Sn-plated steel screw cap, despite the presence of the plastic liner. Although the changes in the natural elemental composition under these bottling conditions are not very high and unlikely to pose a health risk to consumers, they may still influence wine stability and sensory attributes. Understanding these effects is important for both wine producers and consumers to ensure optimal wine quality and preservation. Full article

The Zhunuo porphyry Cu deposit (2.9 Mt Cu @ 0.48%) in the Gangdese belt, southern Xizang, represents a key Miocene post-collisional system. This study integrates textural, major-, and trace-element analyses of pyrite from distinct alteration zones to unravel its hydrothermal evolution and metal precipitation mechanisms. Our study identifies four distinct pyrite types (Py1-Py4) that record sequential hydrothermal stages: main-stage Py2-Py3 formed at 354 ± 48 to 372 ± 43 °C (based on Se thermometry), corresponding to A and B vein formation, respectively, and late-stage Py4 crystallized at 231 ± 30 °C, coinciding with D-vein development. LA-ICP-MS data revealed pyrite contains diverse trace elements with concentrations mostly below 1000 ppm, showing distinct distribution patterns among different pyrite types (Py1-Py4). Elemental correlations revealed coupled behaviors (e.g., Au-As, Zn-Cd positive correlations; Mo-Sc negative correlation). Tellurium variability (7–82 ppm) records dynamic fO₂ fluctuations during system cooling. A comparative analysis of pyrite from the regional deposits (Xiongcun, Tiegelongnan, Bada, and Xiquheqiao) highlighted discriminative geochemical signatures: Zhunuo pyrite was enriched in Co-Bi-Ag-Pb (galena inclusions); Tiegelongnan exhibited the highest Cu but low Au-As; Xiquheqiao had the highest Au-As coupling; and Bada showed epithermal-type As enrichment. Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA) identified Cu, As, and Bi as key discriminators for deposit types (VIP > 0.8), with post-collisional systems (Zhunuo and Xiquheqiao) showing intermediate Cu-Bi and elevated As versus arc-related deposits. This study establishes pyrite trace-element proxies (e.g., Se/Te, Co/Ni, and As-Bi-Pb) for reconstructing hydrothermal fluid evolution and proposes mineral-chemical indicators (Cu-As-Bi) to distinguish porphyry-epithermal systems in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. The results underscore pyrite’s utility in decoding metallogenic processes and exploration targeting in collisional settings. Full article

The evaluation of bioavailable forms of heavy metals in zones of anthropogenic pollution is the basis of ecological risk assessment. The characterization of the consequences of the operation of the Pechenganikel smelting plant was carried out using AAS and two methods of soil bioavailable forms of heavy metal extraction (3% nitric acid and ammonium acetate buffer with pH 4.8) along three directions from the plant, corresponding to the wind prevalence. Buffer extraction provided more significant correlations between Ni, Co, Cu, Pb, and Zn, compared to nitric acid application, indicating a negative correlation between soil Cu, Co, and the distance from the plant, while no significant correlations were recorded for nitric acid extracts. A higher significant correlation number arose between soil elements in buffer extracts along the N-E direction than the S-W one. In the former direction, the number of the mentioned correlations decreased according to the following sequence: Zn (6) > Cu (5) > Se and Co (4) > Ni and Fe (3); in nitric acid extract, only significant correlations of Cu, Zn, and Se with Co and Ni were recorded. Biocrust formation was revealed only along the N-E direction, characterized by unexpected high Se concentrations and intensive correlation between Zn and all the elements extracted by the buffer. Biocrust accumulated high levels of all the elements tested and showed antioxidant activity and polyphenol content significantly correlated with soil organic matter. The biocrust mineral content demonstrated a complex relationship with soil Fe, Cu (buffer extract), and Se, as well as Co and Zn (nitric acid extract). Application of linear mixed-effects modelling and transfer factor analysis indicate that biocrusts may serve as effective bioindicators of both absolute metal contamination and its bioavailable fractions. The results indicate the expediency of using both methods of soil extraction for assessing the ecological risk and soil–biocrust relationships. Full article

Human activities have led to severe aquatic pollution and significant concerns about the ecological health of the Lianjiang River Basin (LRB). These concerns resulted in the implementation of comprehensive policies and treatments to improve the sediment and water quality. Herein, we explore the concentrations, sources, and degree of metal contamination in filtered water (FW), suspended solids (SSs), and surficial channel sediments (SCSs) in streams of the LRB. Calculated enrichment factors, an ecological risk index, and a principal component analysis were employed to understand the degree of elemental contamination, ecological risks, and their potential sources. Elements (e.g., Hg, Cd, Sn, Sb, Cu, and Mo) were mainly detected in FW, SSs, and SCSs in the Bergang, Hucheng, Xiashan, and Zhonggang rivers, and the mainstream of the LR. Four potential anthropogenic sources were identified, including electronic waste recycling (e.g., Cu, Sb, Pb, and Ni), mixed pollution (e.g., Se, Zn, Mn, and Mo), metal processing (e.g., Hg, Cr, Sn, and Cd), and battery manufacturing and recycling (e.g., Co, Ni, and Mn). Overall, Sn, Sb, Hg, Cu, and Cd were enriched by 37.5–79.2% and 34.8–91.3% at the SS and SCS sites, respectively. Mercury, Cd, Sn, Sb, Cu, and Mo posed the most risk both in the SSs and SCSs. Overall, the SS and SCS samples from the LRB remain severely contaminated with metals after recent environmental remediation. The implementation of pollution source control, sewage interception, and dredging operations should be further enhanced. Full article