Showing papers in "Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology in 2007"
TL;DR: Cormorants showed maximum accumulation followed by eagle, raccoon dog and large-billed crow, and wildlife liver contained PFOSA, PFOS, PFDoA, PFOA and PFH×S in the range of 0.31–362, 0.15–238, <0.03–28, >0.07–7.5, respectively, on ng/g wet wt.
Abstract: Perfluorinated organic compounds (PFCs) such as PFOS, PFOA, PFBS, PFH×S, PFOSA and PFDoA were determined in river water, river sediment, liver of market fish and liver of wildlife samples from Japan. Concentrations of PFOA and PFOS in water samples were 7.9–110 and 0.07–7.3 and <0.03–1.5, respectively, on ng/g wet wt. Cormorants showed maximum accumulation followed by eagle, raccoon dog and large-billed crow.
190 citations
TL;DR: The results showed the rice grain contained significantly lower amounts of five metals than straw and root in all sampling sites, and the rice plant transported As very weakly, whereas Hg was transported most easily into the straw and grain among studied heavy metals.
Abstract: Higher accumulation of toxic heavy metals in rice grown in agricultural soil may lead to health disorder. A field experiment was carried out to investigate uptake and translocation of Cd, Cr, Pb, As, and Hg by different parts of rice plant in various irrigation regions. The results showed the rice grain contained significantly lower amounts of five metals than straw and root in all sampling sites. Rice root accumulated Cd, As, and Hg from the paddy soil. Moreover, the rice plant transported As very weakly, whereas Hg was transported most easily into the straw and grain among studied heavy metals.
175 citations
TL;DR: The current study measured Pb, Cu, Cd, andZn levels in muscle and liver of king mackerel, a large (>1,500-mm fork length)reef-associated species that inhabits subtropical and tropicalwaters throughout the Gulf of Mexico.
Abstract: Levels of heavy metals such as lead, copper, cadmium, andzinc in marine fish have been extensively documented inthe primary literature (e.g., Juresˇa and Blanusˇa 2003;Rome´o et al. 1999; Zauke et al. 1999). These metals tend todistribute differentially in liver and muscle, most likelybecause of metal-binding proteins such as metallothioneinsin certain organs of fish (Atli and Canli 2003; De Smetet al. 2001; Hamilton and Mehrle 1986; Roesijadi 1992).These proteins bind copper (Cu), cadmium (Cd), and zinc(Zn), but not lead (Pb), allowing organs such as the liver toaccumulate higher levels of metals than other organs suchas muscle.Only a few monitoring studies have measured heavymetals in fish species found in the Northern Gulf of Mexico(Feldhausen and Johnson 1983; Hanson 1997; Vazquezet al. 2001). The current study measured Pb, Cu, Cd, andZn levels in muscle fillet and liver of king mackerel(Scomberomorus cavalla), a large (>1,500-mm fork length)reef-associated fish that inhabits subtropical and tropicalwaters throughout the Gulf of Mexico. The S. cavalla is avery common sport and food fish (McEachran and Fech-helm 2005).Materials and MethodsMuscle fillets and livers of nine king mackerel (S. cavalla)were collected June 2003 from the Alabama Fishing Rodeoheld at Dauphin Island, Alabama, and sponsored by theJAYCEES of Alabama. All samples (fillet and whole liver)were placed in plastic freezer bags and transported to theUniversity of South Alabama, Mobile, Alabama. Theywere immediately frozen at –80 C.Methods for extracting heavy metals from tissue sam-ples were derived from the U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency (EPA) standard method 3051 (U.S. EPA 1994).Approximately 0.5 g of wet tissue was placed in a 45-mLTeflon insert with 5 mL of ultra pure nitric acid. A separate0.5-g section from each tissue sample was oven driedovernight at 65 C for determination of dry:wet weight ra-tios. Teflon inserts were capped, placed into Parr micro-wave digestion bombs (Parr Instrument Company, Moline,IL, USA), and heated in a microwave. Tissues were di-gested for 3 min at 700 W. The digestate was diluted to10% of the original volume by adding 45 mL of deionizedwater.To monitor the extraction efficiency of the precedingtechnique, 0.25-g dry weight samples of one of two Na-tional Institute of Standards and Testing standard referencematerials, #2976 mussel tissue or #1566b oyster tissue,were digested as described. The percentage of recovery forall metals exceeded 85% of certified values. Levels of Pb,Cu, and Cd were analyzed using a Varian SpectrAA220graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer(Varian Inc., Palo Alto, CA, USA). Levels of Zn wereanalyzed with a Perkin-Elmer flame atomic absorptionspectrophotometer (Perkin-Elmer, Waltham, MA, USA)because this metal tends to be high in biologic samples.Student’s t-tests (df = 16;
109 citations
TL;DR: Carbendazim and dimethoate were found to cause greater harm to the selected earthworm species than glyphosate.
Abstract: We investigated the effects of three different pesticides (carbendazim, dimethoate, and glyphosate) and their mixture on the growth and reproduction of the earthworm species, Eisenia fetida. The study was conducted following the suggestion of the International Workshop on Earthworm Ecotoxicology. The results showed that the pesticide treatment had a marked negative impact on the growth and reproduction of earthworms. Carbendazim and dimethoate were found to cause greater harm to the selected earthworm species than glyphosate.
106 citations
TL;DR: The data indicate that some of the sites analysed, especially in Lake Nakuru, had relatively higher concentration levels of heavy metals Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn in the water which points to anthropogenic addition.
Abstract: The concentrations of heavy metals Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn and Zn were analysed in water and surface sediments of five Rift Valley lakes Nakuru, Elementaita, Naivasha, Bogoria and Baringo in Kenya. The dissolved mean concentration levels (μg/L) in water ranged within 13.0–185.0 (Ag), 2.0–43.0 (Cd), 5.0–316.0 (Co), 25.0–188.0 (Cr), 4.7–100.0 (Cu), 50.0–282.0 (Mn), 19.0–288.0 (Ni), 25.0–563.0 (Pb), 300.0–1050.0 (Sn) and 29.0–235.0 (Zn). The mean sediment concentrations (in μg/g (dry weight)) ranged within 0.1–0.35 (Ag), 0.05–1.18 (Cd), 0.17–1.38 (Co), 1.94–4.91 (Cr), 1.46–20.95 (Cu), 667.7–3946.8 (Mn), 11.69–39.72 (Ni), 10.92–38.98 (Pb), 17.21–56.52 (Sn) and 96.2–229.6 (Zn). The data indicate that some of the sites analysed, especially in Lake Nakuru, had relatively higher concentration levels of heavy metals Cd, Co, Cu, Pb, Ni, and Zn in the water which points to anthropogenic addition. However, potential influence of geochemical processes on the concentration levels in sediment is also shown in Co, Ni, and Cu which were more concentrated in the remote Lake Baringo sediment as well as in Pb and Mn which were more concentrated in the remote Lake Bogoria sediment. Data on some important limnological parameters including pH, salinity, electrical conductivity and temperature are also presented.
106 citations
TL;DR: The results indicated that soil Eh decreased with flooding time, and that soil pH increased with floodingTime, while the change of Pb mobility was not significant after the flood, although a decrease in the exchangeable fraction (SE) was observed.
Abstract: Artificially contaminated soils (A, B) and naturally contaminated soil (S2) in China were used as the tested soils, and the effect of continuous flooding on the changes of Eh, pH and the speciation of cadmium, lead in contaminated soils was studied in the paper The results indicated that soil Eh decreased with flooding time, and that soil pH increased with flooding time The changes of soil pH ceased after 60 days of submergence The exchangeable Cd and Pb decreased obviously during the flooding process from the results of five-step sequential extraction The calculations of mobility factor (MF) showed that Cd mobility significantly decreased in artificially contaminated soils (A, B) after the flood But the change of Pb mobility was not significant after the flood, although a decrease of Pb concentration in the exchangeable fraction (SE) was observed
101 citations
TL;DR: Nickel stress decreased growth, photosynthetic pigments, yield attributes and cation accumulation in mungbean, and restricted transfer to the aerial parts (shoot and least by leaves) was observed.
Abstract: Seeds of the two mungbean cultivars were exposed to 25, 30, 35 and 40 mg L−1 nickel along with control Nickel stress decreased growth, photosynthetic pigments, yield attributes and cation (Na+, K+ and Ca2+) accumulation in mungbean This reduction was less at 25 mg L−1 as compared to 40 mg L−1 nickel In addition, nickel was mainly stored in roots and restricted transfer to the aerial parts (shoot and least by leaves) was observed
90 citations
88 citations
TL;DR: Toxicity tests carried out with the unicellular marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin 1897 strain CCAP 1052/1A showed more tolerance to nickel than cadmium, while nickel showed an increase in toxicity.
Abstract: The toxicity tests were carried out with the unicellular marine diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin 1897 strain CCAP 1052/1A in the f/2 medium at 20°C under continuous white light exposed to irradiance by PAR 120 μ mol m-2s-1 measured with flat sensor. The basic design of toxicity tests followed the International Standard ISO 10253 marine algal growth inhibition test (ISO 1995) and were modified according to Lukavský (1992) and Lukavský and Simmer (2001). To determine the toxicity of metals (Ni2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Cd2+ and Hg2+), on the growth rate of marine phytoplankton diatom P. tricornutum Bohlin, nickel sulphate (NiSO4 • 6H2O), cobalt chloride (CoCl2 • 6H2O), zinc sulphate (ZnSO4 • 7H2O), cadmium nitrate (Cd(NO3)2 • 4H2O), mercury chloride (HgCl2) and mercury sulfate (HgSO4) of analytical grade (99%, Kemika, Zagreb) and cobalt nitrate (Co(NO3)2 • 6H2O) of analytical grade (99%, Fluka) were used. By comparing these toxicity curves the differences in slopes could be observed. Zn, Cd, Co and Ni have a gradual “ slow” curve, while Hg has a “ sharp” one thus indicating high toxicity of Hg. The following order of toxicity was achieved: Hg>Cd>Ni>Co>Zn in the exponential phase of growth (72 h), and Hg>Ni>Co>Zn>Cd after 336 h of experiment duration (in the stationary phase of growth) with mercury as the most toxic metal. Although toxic, the effect of Hg could be attenuated under chronic conditions.P. tricornutum in the exponential phase of growth showed more tolerance to nickel than cadmium. In the stationary phase of growth a high tolerance to cadmium, zinc and cobalt was observed, while nickel showed an increase in toxicity. Besides providing screening toxicity profiles this method can be useful in determining the effects of pollutants on cell growth and viability of organisms. Also, establishing the maximum tolerance levels for organisms, this method could be used for evaluating the potential impact of pollution on aquatic system.
77 citations
TL;DR: Investigation of the ratio of different isomers in the soil samples indicates that there has been no recent input of DDT and HCH in the study area, and it is concluded that organochlorine pesticide residues in Hanoi, Vietnam are stable.
Abstract: An evaluation of selected organochlorine pesticide residues [p,p'- dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT), p,p'- dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene (DDE), p,p'- dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane (DDD), alpha, beta, gamma and delta- hexachlorocyclohexane (HCH)] in the surface soils of Hanoi, Vietnam was carried out. Sixty representative soil samples were collected from the centre of Hanoi and five surrounding districts. In agricultural areas, SigmaDDT concentrations ranged from < 0.02 to 171.83 ng g(-1) (mean 89.86 ng g(-1)) dry weight, whereas SigmaHCH concentrations ranged from < 0.05 to 20.57 ng g(-1) (mean 8.03 ng g(-1)) dry weight. Investigation of the ratio of different isomers in the soil samples indicates that there has been no recent input of DDT and HCH in the study area.
77 citations
TL;DR: Based on the emulsifying and tensiometric properties, this bacterium or its exopolymer could be used for bioremediation, enhanced oil recovery and in cosmetics.
Abstract: Planococcus maitriensis Anita I (NCBI GenBank Accession number EF467308) was tested for its biosurfactant/bioemulsifying efficacy. The crude extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) produced by this bacterium contained carbohydrate (12.06%), protein (24.44%), uronic acid (11%) and sulfate (3.03%). The oil spreading potential of this EPS was comparable to Triton X100 and Tween 80. This exopolymer emulsified xylene more efficiently as compared to few standard gums. It also formed stable emulsions (E1,080=100) with jatropha, paraffin and silicone oils. The cell free supernatant of this bacterium successfully reduced the surface tension (from 72 to 46.07 mN m−1). It also decreased interfacial tension of hexane and xylene. Based on the emulsifying and tensiometric properties, this bacterium or its exopolymer could be used for bioremediation, enhanced oil recovery and in cosmetics.
TL;DR: Workers’ personal exposure to gallium (Ga), indium (In), and arsenic (As) was examined by monitoring the concentrations of these substances in inhalable-air and H. W. Chen (&) Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Science and Technology, 306 Yuanpei Street, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan.
Abstract: The semiconductor manufacturing industry is a chemically-intensive, modern industry in which workers are potentially exposed to toxic metals of the IIIA, IVA, and VA families, including gallium (Ga), indium (In), and arsenic (As) (Liao et al., 2006; Chen, 2006). These metals or metalloids are known to have several toxicities and to cause carcinogenesis in animals and humans (Chepesiuk, 1999; Fowler et al., 1993). Symptoms of acute poisoning (including gastrointestinal discomfort, vomiting, coma, and sometimes death) usually occur within 30 min of ingestion of GaAs and InAs, whereas the consequences of chronic poisoning (including anemia, leucopenia, skin cancer, and other internal cancers) are much more insidious (Betoulle et al., 2002). A single dose of 100 mg/kg of GaAs and InAs resulted in acute pulmonary inflammation and pneumocyte hyperplasia after 14 days (Betoulle et al., 2002; Tanaka et al., 1996; Webb et al., 1986). Chronic exposure (2-year observation period) to lower doses (<1 mg/L) of GaAs and InAs produced systemic toxicity and definite pulmonary lesions (Ohyama et al., 1988). In addition, testicular toxicity was observed, and tumor occurrence increased significantly in mice when GaAs and InAs were injected intraperitoneally (Omura et al., 2000). There was also evidence of renal toxicity. CD rats exposed to GaAs developed mitochondrial swelling of renal proximal tubule cells and dose-dependent inhibition of d-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD) in the blood, kidney, and liver (Goering et al., 1988; Conner et al., 1995). Arsenic has been classified by International Agency for Research in Cancer (IARC) as a Group I carcinogen, which means that it is a documented human carcinogen. Much of the information linking arsenic to cancer has been obtained through studies of human exposure. Chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic is a potential occupational hazard. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandate permissible limits for occupational exposures to ensure the safety and health of workers. The permissible exposure limit (PEL) for arsenic was set at 10 lg/m for an 8-hr day in a 40-hr workweek, and the short-term exposure limit (STEL) measured over a 15-min period was set at 2 lg/m (ATSDR, 2006). Moreover, the biological exposure index (BEI) of total arsenic in urine was set at 35 lg/L (ACGIH, 2004). Taiwan’s history of economic development is well known. The semiconductor manufacturing industry, in particular, has played a decisive role in the development of Taiwan’s economy. Taiwan is the largest producer of CDROMs and light emitting diodes (LEDs) with integrated circuit (IC) products, accounting for 70% and 50% of total worldwide production, respectively. Semiconductor production increased 54% in Taiwan from 1993 to 2000. Currently, about 350 companies in Hsinchu Science-based Industrial Park (HSIP) manufacture ICs, computers and peripheral devices, telecommunication devices, optoelectronics, biotechnology products, and precision machinery. These companies employ over 30,000 people (Chen and Huang, 2004; Chen, 2006). Because workers in the semiconductor manufacturing industry are potentially exposed to a variety of heavy metals, their health may be at risk. In this study, we examined workers’ personal exposure to gallium (Ga), indium (In), and arsenic (As) by monitoring the concentrations of these substances in inhalable-air and H. W. Chen (&) Department of Environmental Engineering and Health, Yuanpei University of Science and Technology, 306 Yuanpei Street, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan, Republic of China e-mail: hwchen@mail.ypu.edu.tw
TL;DR: In this article, the authors investigated subchronic effect of dimethoate on the testes of rats and found that there was a statistically significant decrease in relative testis weights of rats treated with 20 mg/kg dimethoxide.
Abstract: The aim of the current study was to investigate subchronic effect of dimethoate on the testes of rats. The animals of exposed groups were fed with laboratory chow combined with 2, 8 and 20 mg/kg dimethoate for 90 days. When compared to control, there was a statistically significant decrease in relative testis weights of rats treated with 20 mg/kg dimethoate. In light microscopic examinations, histopathological observation of the treated rats revealed that dimethoate caused dose-related testicular damage characterized by moderate to severe seminiferous tubule degeneration as sloughing, atrophy, germ cell degeneration and by partial arrest of spermatogenesis.
TL;DR: To determine the effect of trace elements (Cu, Zn) and heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg) on germination and seedling development of Bowiea volubilis, Eucomis autumnalis and Merwilla natalensis, this study tested the roots of all three species.
Abstract: In South Africa, pollution of agricultural soils is on the increase primarily due to excessive application of fertilizers, sewage disposal and mining activities. This study was done to determine the effect of trace elements (Cu, Zn) and heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg) on germination and seedling development of Bowiea volubilis, Eucomis autumnalis and Merwilla natalensis. These medicinal plant species are highly recommended for cultivation in South Africa to reduce the pressure on wild populations. Copper and Zn at 1 mg L−1 significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the percentage germination of E. autumnalis. Low concentrations (≥1 mg L−1) of Cu and Zn negatively affected the roots of all three species. Mercury concentrations of 0.5 and 1 mg L−1 significantly (p < 0.05) decreased the percentage germination of B. volubilis and E. autumnalis respectively. Cadmium and Hg at 2 mg L−1 showed a detrimental effect on the root growth of B. volubilis. Concentrations of 0.5 mg L−1 of all heavy metals tested significantly (p < 0.05) decreased shoot length of M. natalensis.
TL;DR: Results showed significant differences between nematode assemblages from undisturbed controls and those from nickel treatments, and most univariates measures, including diversity and species richness, decreased significantly with increasing level of Ni contamination.
Abstract: A microcosm experiment was used to examine the effects of nickel on offshore nematode communities of a Tunisian coastal zone (Southwestern Mediterranean Sea). Sediments were contaminated with three nickel concentrations [low (250 ppm), medium (550 ppm) and high (900 ppm)], and effects were examined after 30 days. Results showed significant differences between nematode assemblages from undisturbed controls and those from nickel treatments. Most univariates measures, including diversity and species richness, decreased significantly with increasing level of Ni contamination. Results from multivariate analyses of the species abundance data demonstrated that responses of nematode species to the nickel treatments were varied: Leptonemella aphanothecae was eliminated at all the nickel doses tested and seemed to be intolerant species to nickel contamination; Daptonema normandicum, Neochromadora trichophora and Odontophora armata which significantly increased at 550 ppm nickel concentration appeared to be "opportunistic" species at this dose whereas Oncholaimus campylocercoides and Bathylaimus capacosus which increased at all doses tested (250, 550 and 900 ppm) seemed to be "nickel-resistant" species.
TL;DR: The current study aimed to determine the lead and copper concentrations in tea samples collected from the Beijing market, and to give an overview of the current safety situation of teas marketed in Beijing, host of the Olympic Games in the year 2008.
Abstract: Next to water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage (Marcos et al., 1998) because of its taste aroma and health benefits. On the basis of extensive animal experiments and some epidemiologic data, tea is considered to have numerous beneficial effects on the prevention of many diseases, including skin cancer (Katharine, 2001), Parkinson’s disease (Richard, 2001), myocardial infarction (Cheng, 2003), and coronary artery disease (Hirano et al., 2003). Tea is produced from the leaves of the tropical evergreen Camellia sinensis, which is indigenous to China. In China, tea sipping is an integral part of the culture. In the world, China is a major tea producer, supplying 23.3% of the world’s tea. However, the rapid industrialization of China over the past two decades has caused increased contamination to the environment, which inevitably has brought contamination to tea. During the growth period of the tea plant and during tea processing, tea itself can be contaminated by heavy metals, such as lead and copper, which might increase the metal body burden in humans. Lead is a physiologic and neurologic toxin that can affect almost every organ and system in the human body. It can reduce cognitive development and intellectual performance in children and damage kidneys and the reproductive system. Copper is an essential element, with both deficiencies and excesses associated with impaired health. Copper deficiency is known to cause various physiologic disorders such as anemia and bone abnormalities (Uauy et al., 1998) resulting from decreased activity of the copper-requiring enzymes. Copper excess can cause hepatic and kidney damage, hemolytic anemia (Evans, 1973), and methaemoglobinemia (Chugh et al., 1975). Therefore, after the pesticide contamination issue, heavy metal contamination in teas has become another noteworthy issue because it is related directly to heath and disease. The current study aimed to determine the lead and copper concentrations in tea samples collected from the Beijing market, and to give an overview of the current safety situation of teas marketed in Beijing, host of the Olympic Games in the year 2008.
TL;DR: To survey metal concentrations in tobacco leaves produced in different growing areas of the Thessaly region and to determine the most important soil factors (chemical and physical), which influence the concentration of metals in Burley, Virginia and Oriental tobacco leaves.
Abstract: Contamination of the soil-water-air-plant-animal-human system with metals has health, economic, and ecological importance (Oliver, 1997). The concentrations of metals in soils are associated with biological and geochemical cycles and are influenced by anthropogenic activities, such as agricultural practices, transport, industrial activities and waste disposal (Alloway, 1990; Kabata-Pendias and Pendias, 1992). It is well-known that tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) can easily accumulate certain metals and in particular cadmium in leaves (Clarke and Brennan, 1989; Tso, 1990; Gondola and Kadar, 1994). Cadmium is a non-essential, potentially toxic, largely pollutant ion, which is accumulated by tobacco plants and is transferred in tobacco smoke to humans (Bell et al., 1992; Sravrides, 2006). Phosphates fertilizers, which are used in tobacco cultivation, contain high concentrations of metals. The use of phosphate fertilizers in the fertilization of crops is one of the primary factors in the pollution of agricultural soils (He and Singh 1994a). Metal concentrations in tobacco have been found to be influenced by such factors as soil type and pH genotype, stalk position, soil and leaf residues resulting from the application of metal containing pesticides, and from soil amendments including fertilizers and municipal sludge (Adamu et al., 1989; Karaivazoglou et al., 2007). Although, a number of investigations have been carried out on metal concentration in tobacco leaves (Murty et al., 1986; Ruso et al., 2001; McNeill et al., 2006), there are no data concerning metal content in air-cured (Burley), fluecured (Virginia) and sun-cured (Oriental-filling) tobacco priming produced in the Thessaly region of central Greece. The objectives of the present study were: a) To survey metal concentrations in tobacco leaves produced in different growing areas of the Thessaly region and b) to determine the most important soil factors (chemical and physical), which influence the concentration of metals in Burley, Virginia and Oriental tobacco leaves.
TL;DR: Daphnia magna was used to examine the lethal and sub-lethal toxicity of three POEA formulations consisting of 5:1, 10: 1, and 15:1 average oxide:tallowamine and found the formulation consisting of 10:1 was the most acutely toxic.
Abstract: Polyethoxylated tallowamine (POEA) is a non-ionic surfactant used in many herbicide formulations to increase the ability of active ingredients to penetrate leaf cuticles. However, it has also been shown to disrupt respiratory membranes in aquatic organisms. In this study, Daphnia magna was used to examine the lethal and sub-lethal toxicity of three POEA formulations consisting of 5:1, 10:1, and 15:1 average oxide:tallowamine. The formulation consisting of 10:1 was the most acutely toxic with a 48-h LC50 value of 97.0 μg/L and 15:1 was least toxic at 849.4 μg/L. All formulations inhibited growth at concentrations between 100 and 500 μg/L.
TL;DR: Concentrations of select heavy metals from food items such as, potato chips and biscuits obtained from Nagpur City, India were determined and preferred digestion method for different heavy metal recovery was revealed.
Abstract: Heavy metals composition of foods is of immense interest because of its essential or toxic nature. In view of this, we determined concentrations of select heavy metals from food items such as, potato chips and biscuits that were obtained from Nagpur City, India. The present study revealed preferred digestion method for different heavy metal recovery. The accumulation trend for Potato chips was in following order Fe > Al > Zn > Ni > Cu > Mn > Co > Cr > Pb and Cd, while for Biscuits it was Al > Fe > Zn > Ni > Mn > Co > Cr > Pb > Cu and Cd.
TL;DR: The aim of this study was to estimate the exposure of raptors and waterbirds to anticoagulant rodenticides in Loire Atlantique because of the damage to cereal fields, rivers and water ponds banks.
Abstract: Anticoagulant rodenticides are commonly used to control rodent pests all over the world. These pesticides inhibit the vitamin K cycle in the liver, prevent blood clotting and cause death by hemorrhage. Despite the fact that they were intended for the control of commensal rodents, they may affect non target species, either directly by consumption of contaminated cereal-based baits, or indirectly by consumption of contaminated preys (secondary poisoning). Secondary poisoning of non target species by anticoagulant rodenticides has been confirmed in many mammals and birds species, such as mustelids, foxes and birds of prey (Shore et al., 1996; Berny et al., 1997; Birks 1998; Stone et al., 1999; Stone et al., 2003; Harding 2004; Fournier-Chambrillon et al., 2004). Nevertheless, poisoning of non target species by direct consumption of anticoagulant rodenticides in the form of contaminated baits is poorly documented. Loire Atlantique is a French department well known for its wetlands and marshes in which anticoagulant rodenticides are commonly used especially against coypus (Myocastor coypus) because of the damage to cereal fields, rivers and water ponds banks. The aim of this study was to estimate the exposure of raptors and waterbirds to anticoagulant rodenticides in Loire Atlantique.
TL;DR: A simple, sensitive and rapid technique for the quantification of formaldehyde in urine by derivatization with O-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzyl)hydroxylamine using a headspace sampler coupled to a gas chromatograph equipped with an electron capture detector is developed.
Abstract: Formaldehyde is a carcinogen to which humans are exposed daily, but few methods are available to quantify formaldehyde in biological samples. We developed a simple, sensitive and rapid technique for the quantification of formaldehyde in urine by derivatization with O-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzyl)hydroxylamine, using a headspace sampler coupled to a gas chromatograph equipped with an electron capture detector. The detection limit was 1.08 microg/L. The overall recovery of formaldehyde spiked in urine was 99%. The concentration of formaldehyde in urine obtained from healthy volunteers ranged from 56.85 to 144.57 microg/L. This method can be used successfully to measure formaldehyde in urine.
TL;DR: The results suggested that even at low concentrations, these pyrethroid compounds may exert toxic effects, markedly modifying their behavioral pattern.
Abstract: In the present study, the acute toxicity of the pyrethroid pesticides, cypermethrin and λ-cyhalothrin was conducted for a 96 h period using Channa punctatus. The LC50 values of cypermethrin and λ-cyhalothrin were found to be 0.4 mg/L and 7.92 μg/L, respectively. The λ-cyhalothrin was found to be about 50 times more toxic to the fish than cypermethrin. The behavioral pattern of C. punctatus got severely altered in each group due to pesticide treatment. The results suggested that even at low concentrations, these pyrethroid compounds may exert toxic effects, markedly modifying their behavioral pattern.
TL;DR: The results of the study showed that, the consumption of X. sagititolium and C. esculenta by humans from such environments may pose a serious health risk, and there is therefore the need for a concerted effort by all to minimize the negative impact of gold mining in the study area.
Abstract: Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagititolium) and Watercocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) have gained increased importance in the diets of majority of people in developing countries such as Ghana. The concentration levels of arsenic, cadmium, and mercury in Cocoyam (X. sagititolium) and Watercocoyam (C. esculenta) in Tarkwa and its surrounding villages a mining community in Ghana were measured in this study. From the results of the study, the levels of arsenic, cadmium and mercury in X. sagititolium and C. esculenta were higher than the WHO recommended levels. These root tubers absorb or uptake toxic chemicals from the soil as a result of the mining operations. This means that, the consumption of X. sagititolium and C. esculenta by humans from such environments may pose a serious health risk. There is therefore the need for a concerted effort by all to minimize the negative impact of gold mining in the study area.
TL;DR: The results suggested that both environmental compartments (water column and tidal flats porewater) may be affected by similar point and non-point heavy metal sources.
Abstract: The concentrations of dissolved cadmium, lead, chromium and niquel were determined in surface water column and pore water, collected from the extensive tidal plain at Bahia Blanca estuary, Argentina Three different polluted areas were selected to study the spatial variation of these metals The concentration ranges within the water column were slightly variable (Cd: 018–248 μg L−1; Pb: 038–753μg L−1; Cr: 089–583 μg L−1; Ni: 081–349 μg L−1), and displayed a clear gradient respect to the industrial area Significant differences (contrast tests) between sites were detected for Cd, Pb and Ni Very similar concentrations of Cd (018–341 μg L−1), Pb (038–583 μg L−1), Cr (089–937 μg L−1), Ni (081–656 μg L−1) were found in the porewater at all sites The results suggested that both environmental compartments (water column and tidal flats porewater) may be affected by similar point and non-point heavy metal sources
TL;DR: Examination and analysis of olive trees growing in close proximity to a copper dominated spoil tip dating from at least 2000 years BP, on the island of Cyprus, revealed both bioaccumulation and partitioning of copper, lead and zinc in various parts of the tree.
Abstract: Aspects of the bioaccumulation of heavy metals are reviewed and possible evidence of homeostasis is highlighted. Examination and analysis of olive (Olea europaea L.) trees growing in close proximity to a copper dominated spoil tip dating from at least 2000 years BP, on the island of Cyprus, revealed both bioaccumulation and partitioning of copper, lead and zinc in various parts of the tree. A factor to quantify the degree of accumulation is illustrated and a possible seed protective mechanism suggested.
TL;DR: The aim of this study is to evaluate some metal contents of honeys, collected from different regions of Turkey.
Abstract: Beekeeping is considered one of the most important agricultural activities around the world Today the total number of bees in the world is estimated to be about 56 million, which produce about 12 million tons of honey (Antonescu and Mateescu, 2001) Turkey has important place among the honey producer countries, it is placed the 3rd (for bee hives) and 4th, position among the honey producing countries in the world In Turkey, there are about 4 million bee hives producing about 74,000 million tons of honeys Although all regions of Turkey are suitable for apiculture, the Aegean, Black Sea, and Mediterranean regions are considered to be the most important (DIE, 2005) Honey is an important food for humans Its importance is not only nutritional, but it is also an indicator for environmental pollution (Porrini et al, 2003; Sevimli et al, 1992) Bees fly intensively in a radius of up to 3 km, and for this reason they and their products can serve as bioindicators for the contamination of the area (Bogdanov et al, 2003) A number of authors have used honey bees and/or their products for monitoring environmental pollution (Antonescu and Mateescu, 2001; Devillers et al, 2002; Nanda et al, 2003; Sevimli et al, 1992; Tong et al, 1975; Tuzen, 2002; Uren et al, 1998; Veleminsky et al, 1990) Air and water contain heavy metals from industry and traffic, which can contaminate the bee colonies and their products (Piro and Mutinelli, 2003) High authmobile traffic congestion can lead to the release of the following metals: aluminum, calcium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, silicon, zinc, barium, cadmium, chromium, nickel, palladium, platinum, and others being emitted as air pollutants (Tong et al, 1975) The aim of this study is to evaluate some metal (Al, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Zn) contents of honeys, collected from different regions of Turkey
TL;DR: A survey was conducted in Western UP (Bareilly city), India to investigate the levels of Pb and Cd in the different tissues of fresh water fish (Clarias batrachus) and chicken to investigate their existence in environment as well as aquatic ecosystems in India.
Abstract: Toxic heavy metals are increasingly being released into the environment with the advent of agricultural and industrial revolution in India (Khare and Singh 2002; Jayakumar and Paul 2006). A number of geological and anthropogenic activities such as mining, smelting of metals ores, industrial and automobile emission, battery recycling units, painting industries, and application of insecticides and fertilizers contribute to the elevated levels of toxic and hazardous pollutants including toxic metals in the environment (Woodling et al. 2001; Patra et al. 2005; Swarup et al. 2005). Industrial units frequently discharge toxic wastes into different water bodies, which adversely affect the aquatic ecosystem, and heavy metals get accumulated into the tissues of aquatic species including fish intended for human consumption (Jayakumar and Paul 2006). Heavy metals have been detected in low to alarming concentrations in water of many pisciculture water bodies from different parts of India (Das and Kaviraj 2000). Among the toxic heavy metals, lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) that are most abundant toxic metals in the environment are emerging global concern due to their potential deleterious hazards on public health. Satyanarayanan et al. (1985) reported that the substantial levels of heavy metals on the East coast of India require special attention because they come with the industrial effluents and city sewages. Besides producing toxic impact on aquatic ecosystem, Cd can also be bio-accumulated and biomagnified via the food web and finally reach to human fish consumers posing public health risks (Viana et al. 2005). Epidemiological and experimental evidences indicate a range of toxic effects of Cd including carcinogenicity, mutagenicity and teratogenic effects in human and animals (Bellinger et al. 2004). Chronic environmental exposures to low levels of Pb are also frequently reported in many developing and industrializing countries, particularly in urban areas (Tong et al. 2000). At low levels, haeme synthesis and other biochemical processes are affected, psychological and neurobehavioural functions are impaired and there is a series of other adverse effects (Goldstein 1992). Although in unleaded petrol phase, Pb concentration declined gradually, still it is environmental concern in India. Pb concentration ranged from 0.04 to 3.91 lg/m in the ambient air (Kaul et al. 2003) and 2.1– 12.3 lg/m in tree leaves in 2004 (Singh et al. 2005) at urban sites of Lucknow, India. Recently, Balagangatharathilagar et al. (2006) reported greater blood Pb levels in dog collected from Bareilly city than in unpolluted rural areas (0.25 vs. 0.1 mg/L). Therefore, concerning potential health risk of Pb and Cd, and their existence in environment as well as aquatic ecosystems in India, a survey was conducted in Western UP (Bareilly city), India to investigate the levels of Pb and Cd in the different tissues of fresh water fish (Clarias batrachus) and chicken.
TL;DR: It might be claimed that the pesticide photodegradation may result in significant changes in soil microbiota, as well as formation of biologically harmful degradates.
Abstract: Our study aimed at acquiring information about the biological effect of pesticides and their degradates produced by UV-treatment on microbiological activity. Five photosensitive pesticides (carbendazim, acetochlor, simazine, chlorpyrifos, EPTC) and six representative soil microbes (Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Mycobacterium phlei, Fusarium oxysporum, Penicillium expansum, Trichoderma harzianum) were applied throughout our model experiments. The antimicrobial effects of the pesticides and their degradates were assessed with filter paper disk method. The antimicrobial effect of the degradation products exhibited marked differences in terms of pesticide types, irradiation time, and the test organisms. Acetochlor and its photolytic degradation products were found to be more toxic to bacteria than fungi. All the three bacteria proved to be sensitive to the basic compound and its degradation products as well. The end product of carbendazim was weakly antibacterial against P. fluorescens and B. subtilis but strongly antifungal against T. harzianum. Chlorpyrifos and its end product inhibited neither test organisms, but the degradates hindered the growth of four of them. The basic compound of EPTC and the degradates of simazine exhibited significant toxicity to the test bacteria. It might be claimed that the pesticide photodegradation may result in significant changes in soil microbiota, as well as formation of biologically harmful degradates.