Statistical evaluation of essential/toxic metal levels in the blood of valvular heart disease patients in comparison with controls

The present study was designed to investigate the role of selected essential and toxic metals in the onset/prognosis of valvular heart disease (VHD). Nitric acid-perchloric acid based wet digestion procedure was used for the quantification of the metals by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Comparative appraisal of the data revealed that average levels of Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, K, Li, Mn and Zn were significantly higher in blood of VHD patients, while the average concentration of Ca was found at elevated level in controls (P < 0.05). However, Cu, Mg, Na, Sr and Pb depicted almost comparable levels in the blood of both donor groups. The correlation study revealed significantly different mutual associations among the metals in the blood of VHD patients compared with the controls. Multivariate statistical methods showed substantially divergent grouping of the metals for the patients and controls. Some significant differences in the metal concentrations were also observed with gender, abode, dietary/smoking habits and occupations of both donor groups. Overall, the study demonstrated that disproportions in the concentrations of essential/toxic metals in the blood are involved in pathogenesis of the disease.

Abnormalities of Selected Trace Elements in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease

BACKGROUND

Coronary artery diseases are multifactorial, and over the last several decades particular consideration and research have been devoted to investigating the imbalance of patient elemental levels. Our current study aimed to investigate the comparative distribution of Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Cr, Cd and Pb in the blood of coronary artery disease patients and healthy subjects.

METHODS

Blood samples collected from both groups were digested into a HNO3-HCLO4 (10:1 v/v) mixture in a microwave oven, followed by quantification of the elements by atomic absorption spectrometry.

RESULTS

The average levels of Pb and Cr were markedly higher (p < 0.001) while those of Ca, Fe, Cu and Mn were moderately higher (p < 0.05) in blood of the patients compared to the controls. However, correlation study showed divergent relationships between various elements in the blood of both groups. Multivariate cluster analysis revealed two major clusters of the elements for patients: Ca-Mg-Mn-Co-Cd and Pb-Cu-Fe-Zn-Cr; whereas three common groups were observed for controls: Ca-Mg-Zn-Cu, Cr-Mn-Fe and Co-Cd-Pb. Variations in the elemental levels were also observed to be associated with gender, habitat, food and smoking habits of the subjects.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the distribution, correlation and apportionment of elemental data indicated an imbalance of the toxic/essential elements in blood of the patients compared to the controls.

KEY WORDS

AAS; Blood; Cluster analysis; Coronary artery disease; Essential/toxic element.

Multivariate statistical evaluation of trace metal levels in the blood of atherosclerosis patients in comparison with healthy subjects

BACKGROUND

Numerous epidemiological studies have suggested that metal exposure may promote the atherosclerosis disorder in humans.

OBJECTIVE

This study is carried out to assess the distribution, correlation and multivariate apportionment of cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in the blood of atherosclerosis patients in comparison with healthy donors.

METHOD

The quantification of metals is done by atomic absorption spectrometry, after wet-acid digestion of the blood samples.

RESULTS

Significantly higher concentrations of cadmium, chromium, copper, iron and manganese are found in the blood of atherosclerosis patients. The correlation study shows diverse relationships among the metals in blood of the patients and controls. Multivariate cluster analysis based on the metal levels in patients and controls reveals clearly separate grouping for the patients and healthy donors. Moreover, principal component analysis shows divergent grouping of the metals for the patients and healthy donors, which may be associated with the altered metabolism of the metals in atherosclerosis patients.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the distribution, correlation and multivariate apportionment of selected metals in atherosclerosis patients and healthy donors are significantly divergent. Hence, present findings suggest that the trace and redox metals accumulated in the body may pose a high risk for atherosclerosis development.

Comparative Distribution, Correlation, and Chemometric Analyses of Selected Metals in Scalp Hair of Angina Patients and Healthy Subjects

Numerous epidemiological studies are preponderance of evidences intimating development of coronary artery disease caused by metal imbalance. The present study was aimed to analyze Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Pb, Sr, and Zn in the scalp hair of angina patients and healthy subjects/controls employing HNO3-HCLO4-based wet digestion followed by quantification with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The average concentrations of Cd, Cu, Cr, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Sr revealed significantly higher levels in scalp hair of patients than controls; however, Na and Zn were appreciably higher in healthy subjects. Dissimilarity in the trace metal distribution was also observed with gender, residence, dietary habits, and smoking habits of both donor groups. The correlation study and multivariate analyses revealed diverse mutual relationships and apportionment of the trace metals in the scalp hair of patients and controls.

Comparative Study of Elemental Concentrations in the Scalp Hair and Nails of Myocardial Infarction Patients Versus Controls from Pakistan

Ischemia heart disease has become a ubiquitous cause of morbidity and a leading contributor to mortality worldwide. The present study was aimed to quantify the elemental levels for Ca, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Pb, Sr, and Zn in the scalp hair and nails of myocardial infarction (MI) patients and counterpart controls by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The effects of elemental imbalances on the development of atherosclerosis were evaluated. Average concentrations of Pb (14.7 μg/g), Sr (21.6 μg/g), and Cr (3.70 μg/g) were significantly higher in the scalp hair of the patients, while those of Na, K, Mg, Fe, Mn, and Cd were measured at almost comparable levels in the scalp hair of the patients and controls. In the case of nail samples, average concentrations of Na (1260 μg/g), K (873 μg/g), Sr (70.9 μg/g), Cu (16.6 μg/g), and Mn (16.9 μg/g) were significantly higher in the patients than controls. The correlation study revealed significantly divergent mutual variations among the elements in MI patients and controls. Principal component analysis also manifested the diverse apportionment of the elements in both donor groups. Most of the elements revealed significant disparities in their concentrations based on gender, abode, and smoking habits of the donors in both groups. In conclusion, the elemental imbalance has potential proatherogenic effect that would have a significant impact on sensitive population groups.

Ethnomedicinal values, phenolic contents and antioxidant properties of wild culinary vegetables

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional medicines comprise a variety of health practices, approaches, knowledge, and beliefs. Documentation of traditional knowledge, estimation of total phenolics and antioxidant properties of plant species used as wild vegetables and in traditional medicines by the local communities of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan are targeted.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Interviews, questionnaires, and focus group conversation with local informants were carried out to record ethno-medicinal values. Used value, percentage of people who have traditional knowledge, preference ranking and informant consensus factors were also measured. Standard analytical methods were applied to estimate phenolic contents and antioxidant properties in water and acetone extracts.

RESULTS

A total of 39 plant species used as culinary vegetables and to treat 44 different health disorders are investigated. Significant levels of use value (0.571) and preference ranking (58% PPK, PR-5) are calculated for Ficus palmata, Ficus carica and Solanum nigrum. Elevated levels of total phenolics (144.5 mg GAE/100 g, FW), and flavonoid contents (142.5 mgRtE/100 g, FW) were measured in the water extracts of Origanum vulgare, while Ficus palmata exhibits the highest flavonol contents (142.7 mg RtE/100 g, FW). Maximum DPPH activity is noted in the flowering buds of Bauhinia variegata (85.34%). However, highest values for OH(-) radical scavenging activity (75.12%), Fe(3+) reducing antioxidant power (54.50 µM GAE/100 g, FW), and total antioxidant capacity (180.8 µM AAE/100 g, FW) were measured in the water extracts of Origanum vulgare.

CONCLUSION

Lesser Himalayas is a rich source of traditional cultural heritage, and plant biodiversity, which are under threat and necessitate urgent documentation. Present study is focused on the plant species used in traditional medicines and culinary vegetables as well. Preliminary determinations of phenoloic contents and antioxidant properties of various plant species were carried out. Present work will introduce new resource of medicinal and food plants, which could be used as functional food. Furthermore, phytochemical profiles, cellular based antioxidant properties, and isolation of active ingredients will be useful for consumers, and in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries of the country.

Comparative study of trace elements in blood, scalp hair and nails of prostate cancer patients in relation to healthy donors

Prostate cancer is the most common fatal cancers in men, and exposure to toxic elements is the most important factor in the aetiology for prostate cancer. Selected elements (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) were analyzed in the blood, scalp hair and nails of prostate cancer patients and counterpart healthy donors by atomic absorption spectrometry. Average concentrations of Cd, Mn, Ni and Pb were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the blood, scalp hair and nails of the patients compared with those of the healthy subjects who exhibited significantly higher concentrations of Zn. The correlation study revealed significantly diverse relationships of the elements in the blood, scalp hair and nails of the two donor groups. Variations in the elemental concentrations were also noted for various types of prostate cancer (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, transitional cell carcinoma and small cell carcinoma), as well as for different stages of the cancer. Multivariate apportionment of trace elements in the blood, scalp hair and nails of the patients was also significantly different than that in the healthy donors. The study evidenced considerably divergent variations in the elemental concentrations in prostate cancer patients in comparison with healthy subjects.

Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risk assessment of selected metals in soil around a natural water reservoir, Pakistan

Contaminants in surface soil can directly pose significant human health risks through oral ingestion, dermal contact and particle inhalation, especially for children. Both non-cancer and cancer risks associated with selected metal levels (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn) were evaluated in surface soil around Mangla Lake during summer and winter. The results based on average pseudo-total metal concentrations followed the decreasing order: Fe (4038mg/kg)>Mn (394mg/kg)>Zn (40mg/kg)>Pb (17mg/kg)>Cr (21mg/kg)>Cu (15mg/kg)>Cd (1.3mg/kg) during summer and Fe (3673mg/kg)>Mn (407mg/kg)>Zn (30mg/kg)>Cr (26mg/kg)>Pb (26mg/kg)>Cu (14mg/kg)>Cd (1.8mg/kg) during winter. Present metal levels in the soil were also compared with other studies and guideline values which showed significant increase in the metal concentrations in this study. The metal levels also showed considerable spatial variations around the lake. The correlation study and multivariate principal component analysis revealed significant anthropogenic contributions of the metals in soils. Aqua-regia extractable (pseudo-total) contents were used as the reference to establish the percentage of bioavailability. After considering the bioavailability (Cd>Pb>Cr>Zn>Cu>Fe>Mn during both seasons), the non-cancer and cancer risks posed by Cd, Pb and Cr was relatively higher than rest of the metals, though the overall hazard index (HI) and cancer risk levels were within the safe limits (1.0 and 1.0E-06, respectively). The overall cancer risk to the adults based on pseudo-total metal concentrations exceeded the target value (1.0E-06), mainly contributed by Cr. A method considering bioavailability is suggested to produce a more realistic estimation for human health risks of trace metals contamination in soil.

Comparative assessment of selected metals in the scalp hair and nails of lung cancer patients and controls

Lung cancer is seriously threatening human health and exposure to trace metals is the most important aetiology for lung cancer. Selected essential/toxic metals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, Zn, Cu, Sr, Li, Co, Mn, Ni, Cr, Cd and Pb) are measured in the scalp hair and nails of lung cancer patients and controls by atomic absorption spectrophotometric method employing nitric acid-perchloric acid-based wet digestion. Average concentrations of Pb, Cd, Mn, Co and Cu are found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the scalp hair and nails of lung cancer patients compared with the controls, however, appreciably higher concentrations of Zn, Ca, Na, Mg and Cr are noted in the scalp hair of the controls. Most of the metal levels reveal higher dispersion and asymmetry in the scalp hair/nails of the patients compared with the controls. Average metal levels are also compared to investigate probable differences based on sex, abode, food and smoking habits. The correlation study shows significantly diverse mutual variations of the metals in the scalp hair and nails of the patients and controls. Considerable variations in the metal levels are also noted for various stages and types of lung cancer (adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell carcinoma and small cell lung cancer). Multivariate apportionment of the metals in the scalp hair and nails of the patients and controls are also significantly diverse. The study reveals considerably divergent variations in the metal levels in lung cancer patients in comparison with healthy subjects.

Ethnobotanical and antimicrobial study of some selected medicinal plants used in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) as a potential source to cure infectious diseases

Background

Present investigation deals with antimicrobial screening of ten medicinally important plants used by the inhabitants of district Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) for different infectious diseases.

Methods

Aqueous, n-hexane and ethanolic extracts of each plant were tested for their antimicrobial activity against both Gram positive and Gram negative strains of bacteria, as well as strain of yeast. Agar well diffusion and broth dilution methods were used to determine the antimicrobial activity of different plant extracts.

Results

The results indicated that all plants exhibited antimicrobial activity against one or more test pathogens. Interestingly, extracts of three plants showed strong and broad spectrum activity as compared to rest of the extracts which demonstrated the moderate activity. On the whole ethanolic extracts exhibited maximum antimicrobial effect than their corresponding aqueous and n-hexane extracts, when compared with standard antibiotics i.e., Streptomycin and Tetracycline. Among various extracts, only ethanloic extract of Azadirachta indica and aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Eucalyptus globulus and Bergenia ciliata and ethanolic extract of Punica granatum were found to have potentially promising activity against test microorganisms.

Conclusion

Different plant extracts show promising antimicrobial activity justifying their usage in traditional medicines. This study will be continued to identify more plants with potential antimicrobial components.

Study of seasonal variations and health risk assessment of heavy metals in Cyprinus carpio from Rawal Lake, Pakistan

This study was carried out to find out the comparative distribution of heavy metals (Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Co, Cr, Cd and Pb) in various tissues (muscles, gills, liver, stomach and intestine) of Cyprinus carpio from Rawal Lake, Pakistan, during summer and winter. Relatively higher concentrations of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe and Zn were found in the stomach samples, while the highest Pb and Zn levels were noted in muscle and intestine samples, respectively. Correlation study exhibited diverse relationships among the metals in various tissues. Generally, the metal concentrations found during the summer were comparatively higher than the winter. Potential non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks related to the metals in C. carpio were evaluated using the US Environmental Protection Agency approved cancer risk assessment guidelines. The calculated daily and weekly intakes of Pb, Cd, Cr and Co through the fish consumption were significantly higher than the permissible limits. In relation to the non-carcinogenic risks to human, Pb, Cd, Cr, Co and Zn levels were higher than the safe limits; however, carcinogenic risks related to Cr (3.9 × 10(-3) during summer and 1.1 × 10(-3) during winter) and Pb (2.6 × 10(-4) during summer and 1.5 × 10(-4) during winter) clearly exceeded the safe limit (1 × 10(-6)). Consequently, the consumption of C. carpio from Rawal Lake on regular basis was considered unsafe.

Ethnobotanical appraisal and cultural values of medicinally important wild edible vegetables of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan

BACKGROUND

The association among food and health is momentous as consumers now demand healthy, tasty and natural functional foods. Knowledge of such food is mainly transmitted through the contribution of individuals of households. Throughout the world the traditions of using wild edible plants as food and medicine are at risk of disappearing, hence present appraisal was conducted to explore ethnomedicinal and cultural importance of wild edible vegetables used by the populace of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan.

METHODS

Data was collected through informed consent semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, market survey and focus group conversation with key respondents of the study sites including 45 female, 30 children and 25 males. Cultural significance of each species was calculated based on use report.

RESULTS

A total of 45 wild edible vegetables belonging to 38 genera and 24 families were used for the treatment of various diseases and consumed. Asteraceae and Papilionoideae were found dominating families with (6 spp. each), followed by Amaranthaceae and Polygonaceae. Vegetables were cooked in water (51%) followed by diluted milk (42%) and both in water and diluted milk (7%). Leaves were among highly utilized plant parts (70%) in medicines followed by seeds (10%), roots (6%), latex (4%), bark, bulb, flowers, tubers and rhizomes (2% each). Modes of preparation fall into seven categories like paste (29%), decoction (24%), powder (14%), eaten fresh (12%), extract (10%), cooked vegetable (8%) and juice (4%). Ficus carica was found most cited species with in top ten vegetables followed by Ficus palmata, Bauhinia variegata, Solanum nigrum, Amaranthus viridis, Medicago polymorpha, Chenopodium album, Cichorium intybus, Amaranthus hybridus and Vicia faba.

CONCLUSIONS

Patterns of wild edible plant usage depend mainly on socio-economic factors compare to climatic conditions or wealth of flora but during past few decades have harshly eroded due to change in the life style of the inhabitants. Use reports verified common cultural heritage and cultural worth of quoted taxa is analogous. Phytochemical analysis, antioxidant activities, pharmacological applications; skill training in farming and biotechnological techniques to improve the yield are important feature prospective regarding of wild edible vegetables.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinally important wild edible fruits species used by tribal communities of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Present survey was conducted to explore ethnomedicinal uses and cultural importance of wild edible fruits species by the inhabitants of Lesser Himalayas-Pakistan.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information was obtained through informed consent semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, market survey, focus group conversation, unceremonious dialogue and village walks with key informants. Cultural significance of each species was calculated based on use report by participants at each study site.

RESULTS

A total of 35 wild edible fruits belonging to 21 genera and 17 families were used for the treatment of various ailments and consumed. Rosaceae was found dominating family with (8 spp.), followed by Moraceae (6 spp.), Rhamnaceae (5 spp.), Palmae and Vitaceae (2 spp. each) and remaining families were represented by one species each. Fruits (48%) were found highly utilized plant parts, followed by leaves (34%), bark, flowers and seeds (4% each), branches, latex and roots (2% each). Water was used as a medium for preparation while milk, ghee, oil, egg and butter are used for application. Modes of preparation were fall into seven categories like fresh parts eaten raw (38%), powder (24%), decoction (20%), extract (12 %), paste (4%), juice and latex (2% each). Based on cultural important index (CI) Morus nigra was found most significant species within top ten fruit plants followed by Morus alba, Olea ferruginea, Berberis lycium, Pyrus pashia, Ficus carica, Ficus palmata, Ziziphus mauritiana, Diospyros lotus and Ziziphus nummularia.

CONCLUSIONS

Traditional uses of wild edible plant depend mainly on socio-economic factors rather than climatic conditions or wealth of flora. Use reports and citation demonstrated that there is a common cultural heritage regarding the gathered food plants. Further investigation is required for Antioxidant study, essential and toxic components, pharmacological applications; dietary requirements and biotechnological techniques to improve yields.

Efatutazone, an oral PPAR-γ agonist, in combination with paclitaxel in anaplastic thyroid cancer: results of a multicenter phase 1 trial

PURPOSE

A phase 1 study was initiated to determine the safety, potential effectiveness, and maximal tolerated dose and recommended phase 2 dose of efatutazone and paclitaxel in anaplastic thyroid cancer.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Patients received efatutazone (0.15, 0.3, or 0.5 mg) orally twice daily and then paclitaxel every 3 weeks. Patient tolerance and outcomes were assessed, as were serum efatutazone pharmacokinetics.

RESULTS

Ten of 15 patients were women. Median age was 59 years. Seven patients received 0.15 mg of efatutazone, 6 patients received 0.3 mg, and 2 patients received 0.5 mg. One patient receiving 0.3 mg of efatutazone had a partial response from day 69 to day 175; 7 patients attained stable disease. Median times to progression were 48 and 68 days in patients receiving 0.15 mg of efatutazone and 0.3 mg of efatutazone, respectively; corresponding median survival was 98 vs 138 days. The median peak efatutazone blood level was 8.6 ng/mL for 0.15-mg dosing vs 22.0 ng/mL for 0.3-mg twice daily dosing. Ten patients had grade 3 or greater adverse events (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events), with 2 of these (anemia and edema) related to efatutazone. Thirteen events of edema were reported in 8 patients, with 2 of grade 3 or greater. Eight patients had ≥1 serious adverse event, with 1 of these (anemia) attributed to efatutazone and 1 (anaphylactic reaction) related to paclitaxel. The maximal tolerated dose was not achieved. Angiopoietin-like 4 was induced by efatutazone in tissue biopsy samples of 2 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Efatutazone and paclitaxel in combination were safe and tolerated and had biologic activity.

Health risk assessment and multivariate apportionment of trace metals in wild leafy vegetables from Lesser Himalayas, Pakistan

Fresh wild leafy vegetables and related soil samples were collected from Lesser Himalayas, Pakistan to evaluate the trace metal levels and related health risk to the consumers. The samples were prepared by acid digestion, followed by quantification of selected trace metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, Cr, Cd and Pb) on atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Generally, in the vegetables highest concentrations were detected for Fe, followed by Zn, Mn and Pb. Among the vegetables, highest concentrations of Zn, Cu and Cr were found in Solanum nigrum, while Stellaria media showed the elevated levels of Fe and Cd. Nevertheless, maximum concentrations of Mn and Pb were found in Convolvulus arvensis and Amaranthus viridis, respectively. In the case of soil, highest levels were observed for Fe, followed by Mn, Zn, Pb, Cr and Cu. Translocation of trace metals from soil to the vegetables exhibited highest values for Cd, followed by Zn. Multivariate principal component analysis showed significant anthropogenic contributions of the Pb, Cr, Zn, Cd and Fe in the vegetables. Health risk assessment was evaluated in terms of health risk index, target hazard quotient and hazard index which showed that the intake of some trace metals through vegetables was higher than the recommended values, consequently consumption of the vegetables may be associated with non-carcinogenic health risks. Nonetheless, elevated levels of Cr and Pb were also found to be associated with lifetime carcinogenic risk to the consumers.

Statistical apportionment and risk assessment of selected metals in sediments from Rawal Lake (Pakistan)

The present study was carried out in order to evaluate the statistical apportionment and risk assessment of selected metals (Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Pb, Sr, and Zn) in freshly deposited sediments in Rawal Lake, Pakistan. Composite sediment samples were collected, oven-dried, grounded, homogenized, and processed to assess the water-soluble and acid extractable concentrations of the metals in the water extract and acid extract of the sediments using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Statistical methods were used to identify the possible sources of the metals. Sediment quality guidelines and potential acute toxicity were used to evaluate the ecotoxicological sense of selected metals. Non-carcinogenic health risk assessment was also carried out to determine the potential adverse health risks to the inhabitants. Relatively higher concentration was noted for Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, K, Mn, and Sr in the sediment samples. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis revealed anthropogenic contributions of Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Fe, and Li in the sediments. Enrichment factors of the metals in sediments showed severe to moderate enrichment of Cd, Pb, Ca, Fe, Li, Mn, and Sr. Geoaccumulation indices and contamination factors evidenced significant contamination by Cd and Pb, although, on the whole, low degree of contamination was noted. The levels of some metals exceeded the sediment quality guidelines, which revealed frequently adverse biological effects to the dwelling biota in the aquatic ecosystem. The sediments were found to be significantly contaminated by Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Fe, and Li.

Comparative assessment of essential and toxic metals in the blood of rheumatoid arthritis patients and healthy subjects

The present study deals with the comparative evaluation of essential and toxic metals in rheumatoid arthritis and healthy donors. Blood samples collected from rheumatoid arthritis patients and healthy subjects were analysed for selected essential and toxic metals (Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Mn, Cr, Cd and Pb). The samples were digested in nitric acid and perchloric acid mixture, followed by quantification of the metals using atomic absorption spectrometry. Mean levels of Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn were significantly higher in the blood of healthy donors; however, elevated levels of Cd, Co, Cr, Cu and Pb were observed in blood of the patients. The correlation coefficients among the selected metals in the blood of arthritis patients were significantly different compared with the healthy counterparts. Multivariate cluster analysis revealed mutual apportionment of the essential and toxic metals in blood of the patients, whereas, in controls, the essential and toxic metals revealed diverse apportionment. Variations in the metal levels with gender, residence and smoking habits were also evaluated in both donor groups. Relative distribution, correlation and apportionment of the essential and toxic metals in the blood of the patients were significantly different than of controls.

Assessment of background levels of trace metals in water and soil from a remote region of Himalaya

Selected trace metals were estimated by atomic absorption spectrometry in the water and soil samples collected from the remote region of Himalaya. The soil samples were analysed for soluble and acid extractable fraction of trace metals. In water samples, Ca, Na, Mg and K emerged as dominant contributors, whereas, Ca, Na, K, Mg, Fe and Pb were estimated at comparatively higher levels in the water extract of the soil. In case of acid extract of the soil samples, Ca, K, Fe, Mg, Mn and Na were found at elevated concentrations. Based on mean levels of the metals, following decreasing concentration order was observed in water samples: Ca > Na > Mg > K > Pb > Co > Cu > Zn > Mn > Cr > Fe > Cd > Li, however, in the acid extract of the soil, following order was noted: Ca > K > Fe > Mg > Mn > Na > Pb > Zn > Cr > Li > Cu > Co > Cd. The correlation study revealed appreciably diverse mutual relationships of trace metals in the water and soil samples. The multivariate cluster analyses exhibited divergent apportionment of trace metals in water and soil samples. Among the trace metals, Cd, Pb, Li, Zn, Cr, Cu, Mn and Co exhibited extreme to significant anthropogenic enrichment in the soil samples, while the rest of the metals were mostly contributed by the natural processes.

Non-carcinogenic health risk assessment and source apportionment of selected metals in source freshwater Khanpur Lake, Pakistan

Selected metals (calcium, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, potassium, lithium, magnesium, manganese, sodium, lead, strontium and zinc) were measured in water samples from a source freshwater Lake. Average levels of cadmium, cobalt, chromium and lead in the waters were significantly higher than the guideline values. Health risk assessment was then carried out to determine health risk via oral route and dermal contact. Hazard quotient (via ingestion) levels of cadmium, cobalt, chromium and lead were higher than unity; suggesting potential adverse effects on local residents. Principal component analysis revealed considerable anthropogenic contributions of the metals in the water reservoir.

Comparative evaluation of trace metals in the blood of hepatitis C patients and healthy donors

Hepatitis C is one of the common types of chronic liver disease, and its plausible association with trace metal imbalance has been investigated in the present study. The blood samples of hepatitis C patients and healthy donors were analysed for trace metals (Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Pb, and Zn) by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry after wet acid digestion. In the blood of the hepatitis patients, mean concentrations of essential metals, Na, K, Fe, Ca, Mg, and Zn, were 918.7, 361.0, 102.5, 20.00, 24.66, and 9.429 ppm, respectively, while the mean metal levels in the blood of healthy donors were 1509, 406.8, 232.5, 28.35, 24.59, and 8.799 ppm, respectively. On the average, Cr was significantly higher, while Na, Fe, Ca, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Cd were comparatively lower in the blood of the patients. The correlation study manifested significantly divergent mutual relationships of trace metals in the blood of the patients and healthy donors. Multivariate statistical methods revealed considerably diverse distribution of trace metals in the two groups. Dissimilarity in the trace metal distribution was also noted with the gender and residential location of the donors in both groups.

Distribution, correlation and risk assessment of selected metals in urban soils from Islamabad, Pakistan

Urban soil samples were analyzed for Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Na, Pb, Sr and Zn by atomic absorption spectrophotometric method. Multivariate statistical approach was used to study the apportionment of selected metals in the soil samples during summer and winter. The degree of contamination along with the geoaccumulation index, enrichment factor and contamination factor was also evaluated. In water-extract of the soil samples, relatively higher levels were noted for Na, Ca, K, Fe, Mg, and Pb with average concentrations of 56.38, 33.82, 12.53, 7.127, 5.994, and 1.045mg/kg during summer, while the mean metal levels during winter were 76.45, 38.05, 3.928, 0.627, 8.726, and 0.878mg/kg, respectively. In case of acid-extract of the soils, Ca, Fe, Mg, Na, K, Mn and Sr were found at 27,531, 12,784, 2769, 999.9, 737.9, 393.5, and 115.1mg/kg, during summer and 23,386, 3958, 3206, 254.6, 1511, 453.6, and 53.30mg/kg, during winter, respectively. Most of the metals showed random distribution with diverse correlations in both seasons. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis revealed significant anthropogenic intrusions of Cd, Pb, Co, Cr, Cu, Li, Zn and Na in the soils. Geoaccumulation indices and contamination factors indicated moderate to heavy contamination for Pb and Cd in the soils, while enrichment factor exhibited significant enrichment (EF>5) of Cd, Pb, Ca, Co, Li, Mn and Zn by anthropogenic activities. Overall, on the average basis, considerable degree of contamination (C(deg)>16) was observed in both seasons, although it was higher in winter. Present metal levels were also compared with those reported from other areas around the world.

Distribution, correlation, and source apportionment of selected metals in tannery effluents, related soils, and groundwater--a case study from Multan, Pakistan

In order to study the distribution, correlation, and apportionment of selected metals, the tannery effluent, related soil, and groundwater samples were collected from Multan, Pakistan, and analyzed on flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Among the selected metals, Na, Ca, K, Cr, and Mg revealed dominant concentrations with average values of 5,499, 945, 565, 209, and 107 mg/L and 2,634, 330, 484, 14.1, and 60.5 mg/L in the effluents and groundwater, respectively, whereas the mean metal levels in soil samples were 10,026, 6,726, 9,242, 476, and 9,857 mg/kg. Overall, the mean metal concentrations in the tannery effluents, groundwater, and related soils reveal following order, respectively: Na > Ca > K > Cr > Mg > Ni > Fe > Zn > Co > Pb > Mn > Cd; Na > K > Ca > Mg > Cr > Zn > Ni > Pb > Fe > Co > Mn > Cd; Na > Mg > K > Ca > Cr > Co > Ni > Fe > Pb > Mn > Zn > Cd. Generally, the metal distribution in tannery effluents, soils, and groundwater was found to be random as evidenced by large differences between mean and median values as well as considerably higher standard deviation and skewness values. The selected metal data were also subjected to correlation study to investigate the covariation of metal levels in the three media. The source apportionment of the metal data in the effluents, soils, and groundwater was carried out using principal component analysis in addition to basic statistical and correlation analyses. The source apportionment studies evidenced the gross contamination of groundwater and soils in the vicinity of tanning industrial units in Multan. The current mean metal levels in the soil and groundwater were found to be considerably higher compared with the background concentration levels and WHO guideline values.

Comparison of trace elements in the scalp hair of malignant and benign breast lesions versus healthy women

Trace elements including Al, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sr, and Zn were analyzed in the scalp hair samples of women with malignant breast lesions, women with benign breast lesions, and healthy donors using atomic absorption spectrophotometric method. In the scalp hair of malignant-tumor patients, the highest average concentration was shown by Ca (1,187 microg/g), followed by Na (655 microg/g), Mg (478 microg/g), Zn (391 microg/g), Sr (152 microg/g), Fe (114 microg/g), and K (89.8), while in the case of benign-tumor patients, the average estimated element levels were 1,522, 1,093, 572, 457, 217, 80.4, and 74.7 microg/g, respectively. Most of the elements exhibited non-normal distribution evidenced by large spread, standard error, and skewness values. Mean concentrations of Ca (634 microg/g), Zn (206 microg/g), Mg (162 microg/g), Fe (129 microg/g), and Na (82.1 microg/g) were noteworthy in the scalp hair of healthy women. Average levels of Na, Sr, K, Cd, Co, Pb, Mg, Ca, Zn, Ni, Sb, and Mn were revealed to be significantly higher in the hair of malignant and benign patients compared to the healthy women; however, Fe, Cu, Al, and Cr were not significantly different in the scalp hair of the three groups. The quartile distributions of Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Sr revealed maximum spread in the scalp hair of malignant and benign groups; nevertheless, Al, Cu, Fe, and Zn exhibited almost comparable quartile levels in the three groups. Strong correlation coefficients were found between Fe and Cd, Al and Na, Mn and Sr, Co and Cr, Cd and Cr, Pb and K, Pb and Mn, Cu and Na, and Al and Fe in the scalp hair of malignant-tumor patients, while Fe and K, Cd and Co, Na and Co, and Cr and Pb showed strong correlations in the scalp hair of benign-tumor patients, both of which were significantly different compared with the healthy subjects. Multivariate cluster analysis also revealed divergent clustering of the elements in the scalp hair of malignant and benign patients in comparison with the healthy women.