Cadmium, lead and mercury concentrations in pathologically altered human kidneys

A ratiometric fluorescent probe with a large Stokes shift for rapid and sensitive detection of Hg2+ in environmental water samples and its applications in living cells and zebrafish

Detection of highly toxic mercury ions (Hg2+) in actual environmental and biological samples is of significant importance for protecting environment and human health. In this paper, a new ratiometric fluorescent probe BTIA was designed and synthesized from 3-pinone based on Internal Charge Transfer (ICT) mechanism. BTIA could selectively recognize Hg2+ over other competitive analytes with short reaction time (5 s), distinct ratiometric response, strong anti-interference ability, large Stokes shift (200 nm), and low detection limit (2.36 × 10-7 M). Furthermore, BTIA was applicable for detecting Hg2+ in actual water samples and it also performed an excellent imaging capability in living RAW264.7 cells, zebrafish and onion tissue.

Pollution of four heavy metal elements in dried chili peppers in Guizhou Province and its health risk assessment

This study aimed to evaluate arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) levels in dried chili peppers from nine districts in Guizhou Province. These heavy metals, widely dispersed and capable of transferring to crops, pose potential health risks to humans. The assessment included modeling daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), total target hazard index (TTHQ), and target carcinogenic risk (TCR) to assess health risks across different population groups. Results showed chromium (0.9540 ± 0.301 mg/kg) and lead (0.8949 ± 0.266 mg/kg) had the highest concentrations, followed by arsenic (0.3287 ± 0.093 mg/kg) and cadmium (0.0627 ± 0.017 mg/kg). Children exhibited higher EDI values than adults, indicating greater health risks from dried chili pepper consumption at equivalent levels. THQ and TTHQ values were below 1 across all regions, indicating no significant health risks associated with dried chili pepper consumption. Similarly, TCR values were below 10-4 for all nine regions, indicating an acceptable level of carcinogenic risk. Overall, consuming dried chili peppers in Guizhou Province poses an acceptable health risk, but caution is advised, especially for children, to limit heavy metal exposure.

Determination of the maximum bioaccumulation capacity of various metals in leaves of two Tillandsia species

Tillandsia species are plants from the Bromeliaceae family which display biomonitoring capacities in both active and passive modes. The bioaccumulation potential of Tillandsia aeranthos (Loisiel.) Desf. and Tillandsia bergeri Mez acclimated to Southern/Mediterranean Europe has never been studied. More generally, few studies have detailed the maximum accumulation potential of Tillandsia leaves through controlled experiments. The aim of this study is to evaluate the maximum accumulation values of seven metals (Co, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Pt, and Zn) in T. aeranthos and T. bergeri leaves. Plants were immersed in different mono elemental metallic solutions of Co (II), Cu (II), Mn (II), Ni (II), Pb (II), Pt (IV), and Zn (II) ions at different concentrations. In addition, cocktail solutions of these seven metals at different concentrations were prepared to study the main differences and the potential selectivity between metals. After exposure, the content of these metals in the leaves were measured by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry. Data sets were evaluated by a fitted regression hyperbola model and principal component analysis, maximum metal loading capacity, and thermodynamic affinity constant were determined. The results showed important differences between the two species, with T. bergeri demonstrating higher capacity and affinity for metals than T. aeranthos. Furthermore, between the seven metals, Pb and Ni showed higher enrichment factors (EF). T. bergeri might be a better bioaccumulator than T. aeranthos with marked selectivity for Pb and Ni, metals of concern in air quality biomonitoring.

Cadmium and lead accumulation in important food crops due to wastewater irrigation: Pollution index and health risks assessment

The contamination of farm soils with heavy metals (HMs) has raised significant concerns due to the increased bioavailability and accumulation of HMs in agricultural food crops. To address this issue, a survey experiment was conducted in the suburbs of Multan and Faisalabad to investigate the spatial distribution, bioaccumulation, translocation, and health risks of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in agricultural crops. The results show a considerable concentration of Cd and Pb in soils irrigated with wastewater, even though these levels were below the permissible limits in water and soil matrices. The pollution index for Cd was mostly greater than 1 at the selected sites, indicating its accumulation in soil over time due to wastewater irrigation. Conversely, the pollution index for Pb was below 1 at all sites. Among the plants, Zea mays accumulated the highest concentration of Cd and Pb. The translocation factor from soil to root was highest for Brassica olearecea (7.037 for Cd) and Zea mays (6.383 for Pb). The target hazard quotient (THQ) value of Cd exceeded the non-carcinogenic limit for most vegetables. The highest value was found in Allium cepa (5.256) and the lowest in Allium sativum (0.040). In contrast, the THQ level of Pb was below the non-carcinogenic limit for most vegetables, except for Allium cepa (1.479), Solanum lycopersicum (1.367), and Solanum tuberosum (1.326). The study highlights that Allium cepa poses the highest health risk for humans, while Medicago sativa poses the highest risk for animals due to Cd and Pb contamination. These results underscore the urgent need for effective measures to mitigate the health risks associated with HM contamination in crops and soils.

Multi-Year Monitoring of the Toxicological Risk of Heavy Metals Related to Fish Consumption by the Population of the Kendari Region (Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia)

This study measured the concentrations of Hg, As, Ni, Cd, and Pb in six fish species commonly consumed in Kendari. Samples were bought within local markets from 2012 to 2017 at the end of the dry season. Results showed that mercury concentrations fluctuated between years and within species, except in the Caranx sexfasciatus, which showed no significant differences (Kruskall-Wallis, p-value > 0.05, df = 5) and an average concentration of 0.371 ± 0.162 µg g-1 DW. Arsenic was found in high concentrations across species and years and varied widely in C. sexfasciatus, the lowest value being 0.32 ± 0.01 µg g-1 DW in 2012 and the highest was 5.63 ± 1.89 µg g-1 DW in 2017. The highest nickel concentrations were found in 2016 across four of the six species. The fish samples displayed very low cadmium and lead concentrations throughout the study. In addition, the potential human health risk due to fish consumption was assessed. This showed that mercury is the only one of the five metals present in concentrations high enough to individually pose a potential hazard, the only metal likely to be accumulated beyond a safe concentration in Kendari. Chanos chanos never posed a toxicological risk based on the results of this research.

Effects of undesired substances and their bioaccumulation on the black soldier fly larvae, Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae)-a literature review

Black soldier fly (BSF), Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), is predominantly reared on organic wastes and other unused complementary substrates. However, BSF may have a buildup of undesired substances in their body. The contamination of undesired substance, e.g., heavy metals, mycotoxins, and pesticides, in BSF mainly occurred during the feeding process in the larval stage. Yet, the pattern of accumulated contaminants in the bodies of BSF larvae (BSFL) is varied distinctively depending on the diets as well as the contaminant types and concentrations. Heavy metals, including cadmium, copper, arsenic, and lead, were reported to have accumulated in BSFL. In most cases, the cadmium, arsenic, and lead concentration in BSFL exceeded the recommended standard for heavy metals occurring in feed and food. Following the results concerning the accumulation of the undesired substance in BSFL's body, they did not affect the biological parameters of BSFL, unless the amounts of heavy metals in their diets are highly exceeding their thresholds. Meanwhile, a study on the fate of pesticides and mycotoxins in BSFL indicates that no bioaccumulation was detected for any of the target substances. In addition, dioxins, PCBs, PAHs, and pharmaceuticals did not accumulate in BSFL in the few existing studies. However, future studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of the aforementioned undesired substances on the demographic traits of BSF and to develop appropriate waste management technology. Since the end products of BSFL that are contaminated pose a threat to both human and animal health, their nutrition and production process must be well managed to create end products with a low contamination level to achieve a closed food cycle of BSF as animal feed.

Health risk assessment of cadmium exposure by integration of an in silico physiologically based toxicokinetic model and in vitro tests

Cadmium (Cd) is a common environmental pollutant that can damage multiple organs, including the kidney. To prevent renal effects, international authorities have set health-based guidance values of Cd from epidemiological studies. To explore the health risk of Cd exposure and whether human equivalent doses (HEDs) derived from in vitro tests match the current guidance values, we integrated renal tubular epithelial cell-based assays with a physiologically based toxicokinetic model combined with the Monte Carlo method. For females, the HEDs (μg/kg/week) derived from KE2 (DNA damage), KE3 (cell cycle arrest), and KE4 (apoptosis) were 0.20 (2.5th-97.5th percentiles: 0.09-0.48), 0.52 (0.24-1.26), and 2.73 (1.27-6.57), respectively; for males the respective HEDs were 0.23 (0.10-0.49), 0.60 (0.27-1.30), and 3.11 (1.39-6.78). Among them, HED_KE4 (female) was close to the tolerable weekly intake (2.5 μg/kg/week) set by the European Food Safety Authority. The margin of exposure (MOE) derived from HED_KE4 (female) indicated that risks of renal toxicity for populations living in cadmium-contaminated regions should be of concern. This study provided a new approach methodology (NAM) for environmental chemical risk assessment using in silico and in vitro methods.

Integrated review of the nexus between toxic elements in the environment and human health

Emerging pollutants in the environment due to economic development have become a global challenge for environmental and human health management. Potentially toxic elements (PTEs), a major group of pollutants, have been detected in soil, air, water and food crops. Humans are exposed to PTEs through soil ingestion, consumption of water, uptake of food crop products originating from polluted fields, breathing of dust and fumes, and direct contact of the skin with contaminated soil and water. The dose absorbed by humans, the exposure route and the duration (i.e., acute or chronic) determine the toxicity of PTEs. Poisoning by PTEs can lead to excessive damage to health as a consequence of oxidative stress produced by the formation of free radicals and, as a consequence, to various disorders. The toxicity of certain organs includes neurotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, skin toxicity, and cardiovascular toxicity. In the treatment of PTE toxicity, synthetic chelating agents and symptomatic supportive procedures have been conventionally used. In addition, there are new insights concerning natural products which may be a powerful option to treat several adverse consequences. Health policy implications need to include monitoring air, water, soil, food products, and individuals at risk, as well as environmental manipulation of soil, water, and sewage. The overall goal of this review is to present an integrated view of human exposure, risk assessment, clinical effects, as well as therapy, including new treatment options, related to highly toxic PTEs.

Potential Health Effects of Heavy Metals and Carcinogenic Health Risk Estimation of Pb and Cd Contaminated Eggs from a Closed Gold Mine Area in Northern Thailand

Gold-mining activities have been demonstrated to result in significant environmental pollution by Hg, Pb, and Mn, causing serious concerns regarding the potential threat to the public health of neighboring populations around the world. The present study focused on heavy-metal contamination in the eggs, blood, feed, soil, and drinking water on chicken farms, duck farms, and free-grazing duck farms located in areas < 25 km and > 25 km away from a gold mine in northern Thailand. In an area < 25 km away, Hg, Pb, and Mn concentrations in the eggs of free-grazing ducks were significantly higher than > 25 km away (p < 0.05). In blood, Hg concentration in free-grazing ducks was also significantly higher than those in an area > 25 km away (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the Pb concentration in the blood of farm ducks was significantly higher than in an area > 25 km away (p < 0.05). The concentration of Cd in drinking water on chicken farms was significantly higher for farms located within 25 km of the gold mine (p < 0.05). Furthermore, a high correlation was shown between the Pb (r2 = 0.84) and Cd (r2 = 0.42) found between drinking water and blood in free-grazing ducks in the area < 25 km away. Therefore, health risk from heavy-metal contamination was inevitably avoided in free-grazing activity near the gold mine. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) in the population of both Pb and Cd exceeded the cancer limit (10−4) for all age groups in both areas, which was particularly high in the area < 25 km for chicken-egg consumption, especially among people aged 13−18 and 18−35 years old. Based on these findings, long-term surveillance regarding human and animal health risk must be strictly operated through food chains and an appropriate control plan for poultry businesses roaming around the gold mine.

Lead (Pb) exposure from outdoor air pollution: a potential risk factor for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia related to HPV genotypes

Human papillomavirus genotypes (HPVs) have been confirmed to be the major cause of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) that remains to be one of the most common women cancers around the world. It seems other risk factors have synergistic effects on cervical cancer occurrence including smoking, dietary pattern, sexual behavior, ethnicity, epigenetics, and environmental hazardous materials. Our study characterized the potential cancerous role of lead (Pb) as a common toxic environmental pollutant agent on CIN outcomes. Lead concentration was quantified using an atomic absorption spectrometer in liquid-based cytology specimens of 40 CIN-HPV positive subjects, 50 HPV infected non-cancerous cases, and 43 non-HPV infected/non-cancerous women. Pb concentration was 5.5 (4.7-6.4) μg/dL, 4.7 (4.2-8.7) μg/dL, and 4.7 (4.5-5.4) μg/dL in the CIN-HPV positive group, HPV infected non-cancerous cases, and non-HPV infected/non-cancerous group, respectively. The results showed higher Pb concentration is associated with higher risk for cervical malignancy in comparison with non-HPV infected/non-cancerous subjects, after controlling for age effect (aOR = 4.55, 95% CI: 1.55-15.07, P < 0.01). Our finding suggested a direct significant association between Pb accumulation and CIN existence. The consequences need to be further validated by including more relevant risk factors and controlling the confounders for better understating of Pb impact from outdoor air pollution on cervical cancer progression.

Mercury, selenium and cadmium in juvenile blue (Prionace glauca) and smooth hammerhead (Sphyrna zygaena) sharks from the Northwest Mexican Pacific coast

Cadmium, selenium, and mercury concentrations were measured in muscle and liver of juvenile blue (Prionace glauca) and smooth hammerhead (Sphyrna zygaena) sharks caught on the west coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico, to evaluate the human health risk associated with its consumption. Cd and Hg were lower than the maximum allowable limit for human consumption established by the Mexican government (Hg = 1.0 μg g^-1 and Cd = 0.50 μg g^-1). Interspecific differences in trace elements accumulation denoted diet variations and physiological requirements of each shark species. Calculated biomagnification factor (BMF) values confirmed a prey-predator trophic transfer of elements. Not significant results of Selenium health benefit Index value (P. glauca = -0.46; S. zygaena = -0.02) signify no potential risks for human health. However, calculated Hazard Index values displayed possible health hazards to the children who consume blue shark meat regularly. The local population is advised regarding the ingestion rates of shark.

Simultaneous removal of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II) from water by a submerged macrophyte pondweed (Potamogeton malaianus)

The current work investigated the potential of submerged macrophyte pondweed (Potamogeton malaianus) in treating cadmium, nickel, and lead-contaminated water through phytoremediation. The adsorption for the three metal ions occurred rapidly within 2 h and attained dynamic equilibrium in no more than 72 h. The removal efficiencies of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II) were high, passing 94% in both single- and multi-metal systems. The kinetic adsorption curves of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II) were fitted well by both pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetics (R²  = 0.9875-0.9995). The equilibrium adsorption capacities of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II) for P. malaianus were 6.29-6.97 mg kg^-1 . In plants, the higher concentration of each metal ions was accumulated in leaves (12.44-38.15 mg kg^-1 ) than in roots (10.32-26.10 mg kg^-1 ). The chlorophyll contents increased from 0.69 to 0.89-1.00 mg g^-1 under the treatment of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II), whereas the chlorophyll a/b ratio was kept constant. There was no significant difference between single- and multi-metal systems. FT-IR spectra showed that COH and C═N might be involved in the adsorption of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II). This study demonstrated that P. malaianus could be a suitable submerged macrophyte for the simultaneous removal of Cd (II), Ni (II), and Pb (II) from water.

Kidney Cadmium Concentrations in an Urban Sri Lankan Population: an Autopsy Study

Contamination and bioaccumulation of toxic heavy metals in our geo-environment is a growing public health concern. Human biomonitoring is an essential step in assessing the population risk of chronic exposure to environmental contaminants. Whole kidneys collected from a cohort of 92 deceased individuals undergoing forensic autopsies in Colombo, Sri Lanka, were analysed for cadmium (Cd) bioaccumulation using ICP-MS. Mean age of the population was 55.4 ± 15.4 years. Mean and median renal Cd concentrations of the total population were 4.38 and 2.60 μg g^-1 w/w, respectively, which were below estimated toxic ranges. Males accumulated higher levels of Cd than females (p = 0.377). Cd concentrations were higher in the < 60 age group than the > 60 age group (p = 0.92), while the highest levels were reported in 51-60 age group. However, no significant correlation was found between renal Cd concentration and age (Ʈ_b = - 0.005, p = 0.94). Individuals who smoked, chewed betel or consumed alcohol were found to have elevated renal Cd concentrations in comparison to those who did not use these substances. This is the largest autopsy study on renal Cd bioaccumulation in Sri Lanka, and the findings do not indicate a high exposure risk to environmental Cd contamination at present.

Analysis of Cadmium, Mercury, and Lead Concentrations in Erythrocytes of Renal Transplant Recipients from Northwestern Poland

Simple Summary

The aim of this study is to determine the blood erythrocyte concentrations of toxic metals (Cd, Pb, and Hg) in renal transplant recipients. Additionally, we analyzed the effect of selected biological and environmental factors, including the intake of various immunosuppressive drug regimens and smoking, on these xenobiotic concentrations. In summary, our data suggest that, smoking is associated with Pb and Cd concentrations, and gender, age change depending on Pb concentration in erythrocytes of renal transplant recipients. Additionally, this is the first research that suggests that immunosuppressive regimen, depending on type of immunosuppressive drugs combination affects Pb concentration in erythrocytes of the mentioned group of patients. It seems to be crucial information for patients who use immunosuppressive drugs.

Abstract

Cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) exhibit highly nephrotoxic properties, and their high concentrations can lead to renal failure. Much research has been conducted on the concentrations of heavy metals, microelements, and macroelements in the blood, but little is known about the concentration of Cd, Pb, and Hg in erythrocytes of renal recipients. The aim of this study is to determine the blood erythrocyte concentrations of toxic metals (Cd, Pb, and Hg) in renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Additionally, we analyzed the effect of selected biological and environmental factors, including the intake of various immunosuppressive drug regimens and smoking, on these xenobiotic concentrations. The material consisted of erythrocyte samples from 115 patients of the Department of Nephrology, Transplantology, and Internal Medicine at Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University, Szczecin, in northwestern Poland. Cd, Hg, and Pb levels in the erythrocytes were quantified by inductively coupled mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Equal concentrations of Cd were found in erythrocytes of both female and male transplant recipients. The highest level of Hg was seen in women, and women overall had statistically higher concentrations of Pb than men. Comparison of metal concentrations between those over 50 years and those under it showed that Pb concentration was also significantly higher in renal transplant recipients over 50. Pb concentration was almost twice as high in RTRs who used tacrolimus with mycophenolate mofetil than in RTRs who used cyclosporine A with mycophenolate mofetil. The highest level of Cd was seen in smokers, who had 3.25 µg/L. This value was significantly higher than in ex-smokers (p = 0.001) and with RTRs who had never smoked. There were significantly higher levels of Pb in the erythrocytes of RTRs who were ex-smokers than in those who had never smoked. A statistically significant correlation was found between Cd and Pb concentrations. Additionally, we have noticed significant positive correlation between Pb and age (R = 0.37), gender (R = 0.24) and significant negative correlation of Pb with GFR (R = −0.33). We have also found significant positive correlation between Hg and age (R = 0.21). In summary, our data suggest that, smoking is associated with Pb and Cd concentrations, and gender, age change depending on Pb concentration in erythrocytes of RTRs. Additionally, this is the first research that suggests that immunosuppressive regimen, depending on type of immunosuppressive drugs combination affects Pb concentration in erythrocytes of RTRs. It seems to be crucial information for patients who use immunosuppressive drugs.

Serum Selenium, Iron, Zinc, and Copper Concentrations in Renal Transplant Recipients Treated with Mycophenolate Mofetil

There are data available in the literature on bioelement concentrations in the serum of various groups of patients; however, very little is known about the serum concentration of selenium (Se), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) in renal transplant patients treated with immunosuppressive drugs, including mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). Monitoring of serum bioelement concentrations in renal transplant recipients is of profound importance, as the proper bioelement levels seem to prolong the normal function of the transplanted organ. Thus, the aim of this current study was to examine and carry out comparative analysis involving serum concentrations of Se, Fe, Cu, and Zn of renal transplant recipients treated with MMF and without MMF. The material consisted of blood samples from 115 patients of the Department of Nephrology, Transplantology, and Internal Medicine of Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University, in the city of Szczecin in the northwestern Poland. Serum Se, Fe, Cu, and Zn levels were quantified by inductively coupled mass spectroscopy (ICP-MS). Taking into account all patients, MMF increases Cu level. Cu and Fe concentrations were significantly higher in women treated with MMF; in group of younger patients treated with MMF, Se level was significantly lower comparing with those whose regimen did not include MMF. Additionally, MMF in combination with prednisone increased Se concentration in blood of transplant recipients. Our study highlights that trace elements should be monitored to allow for an early detection of trace elements deficits, which can easily be corrected for by an adjusted diet or supplemental intake.

Bioaccumulation of mercury in Haemulopsis elongatus and Pomadasys macracanthus from the SE Gulf of California: condition indexes and health risk assessment

Mercury (Hg) was measured in the muscle, liver, and gonads of Haemulopsis elongatus and Pomadasys macracanthus from Mazatlán (SE Gulf of California) to determine the relationships of the hepatosomatic index (HSI) and gonadosomatic index (GSI) of fish with Hg concentrations in the corresponding tissues. Health risk to consumers was assessed by using the hazard quotient (HQ), considering the average rate of fish consumption in Mexico and Hg concentration in the edible tissue. In H. elongatus, the highest Hg levels were measured in the liver (3.748 μg g^-1); in P. macracanthus, the highest Hg concentration was quantified in the muscle (0.574 μg g^-1). In P. macracanthus, the HSI was negatively correlated with Hg concentration in the liver; in H. elongatus, there was also a negative relationship between Hg levels in gonads and the GSI. Mean HQ values in Haemulopsis elongatus (0.005) and Pomadasys macracanthus (0.002) were below the value (HQ ≥ 1) of concern. The significant reduction of HSI and GSI with Hg increase in the liver and gonads may suggest that Hg bioaccumulation in these fish shows adverse physiological effects. Though HQ values in both species were below the unit, i.e., the consumption of the muscle from this species does not represent a health risk, it is necessary to carry out surveys of fish consumption rates in coastal areas of Mexico to do a more precise health risk assessment associated to Hg intake.

Arsenic and Selenium Profile in Erythrocytes of Renal Transplant Recipients

Arsenic and selenium elements play extremely important roles in organisms. Too high As concentration in blood may lead to functional disorders within organs, including cancer. Arsenic is designated as a Group 1 human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that has established causal role of arsenic in cancers of the urinary bladder, lung, and skin in humans. In contrast, Se is believed to be the antioxidant trace element that is important in the biological defense against oxidative damage. We tested the hypothesis that immunosuppressive treatment based on mycophenolate mofetil (MMF), that is one of the most commonly used drug by renal transplant recipients, affects arsenic and selenium concentration in erythrocytes of renal transplant recipients. Current research was undertaken due to the fact that there are few studies on the concentration of chemical elements in the erythrocytes in kidney patients receiving immunosuppressive drugs. Monitoring of the concentration of chemical elements in the blood in patients who underwent kidney transplantation could be helpful, since chemical elements play an important role in many biological processes and it seems to be crucial in the prevention of cancer to which renal transplant recipients are more often exposed.The material consisted of blood from 115 renal transplant recipients of the Department of Nephrology, Transplantology, and Internal Medicine of Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2, Pomeranian Medical University, in the city of Szczecin in northwestern Poland. Arsenic and selenium levels in erythrocytes were quantified by inductively coupled mass spectroscopy.Men MMF+ had significantly higher As concentration than men MMF-. Se concentration was significantly higher in younger patients compared with older patients. The patients with lower creatinine level who used MMF had significantly higher As than MMF- patients. Patients whose therapy was based on MMF, cyclosporine A and glucocorticosteroids exhibited significantly higher concentration of As compared with patients whose regimen was based on MMF, tacrolimus, and glucocorticosteroids.This is the first study that demonstrates that regimen based on mycophenolate mofetil affects As and Se concentrations in erythrocytes in renal transplant recipients.

DFT analysis of the interaction between Hg2+ and monodentate neutral ligands using NBO, EDA, and QTAIM

We report thermodynamic, geometric, and electronic parameters for the interaction between neutral ligands and the [Hg(H₂O)]²⁺ dication, using the B3LYP/6-311 + G(d,p) approach. Gibbs free energies for the interaction were employed to rank the affinity order of the several neutral ligands. To identify the parameters that characterize the affinity between the two fragments, the metal-ligand interaction was analyzed according to the EDA, NBO, and QTAIM decomposition schemes. The phosphine oxide showed the highest affinity for the Hg(H₂O)²⁺ dication, mainly due to the P=O bond polarization. Ligands containing the sulfur atom, characterized by a high covalent component for the metal-ligand interaction, are the following in the interaction order. According to the Gibbs free energy for substitution of one water molecule in the [Hg(H₂O)₂]²⁺ complex, the sequence for the affinity order is: phosphine oxide > thioketone > thioesther > lactam > amide > amine > carboxylic acid > thiophene > ketone > esther > thiol > thiocyanate > ammonia > disulfide > aldehyde > ether > haloydrin > alcohol > enol > azide. Graphical abstract Synopsis The interaction between the Hg²⁺ cation and monodentate ligands containing S, O, or N atoms was evaluated in terms of energetic (bond strength, electrostatic and covalent interactions, donation energy), geometric (metal-ligand distance), electronic (atomic charges, orbital overlap, orbital hybridization) and topologic parameters.

Cadmium, mercury, and selenium in muscle of the scalloped hammerhead Sphyrna lewini from the tropical Eastern Pacific: Variation with age, molar ratios and human health risk

With the aim of assessing health risk to shark consumers, cadmium, mercury, and selenium were measured in muscle of Sphyrna lewini from four coastal states (Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, Nayarit, and Colima) in western Mexico. According to length of specimens, three age modes were found: juveniles and neonates (the majority of the individuals), preadults and adults. Average concentrations (μg g^-1 dry weight) in all the studied individuals followed the order cadmium (0.06), selenium (0.94), and mercury (1.56). The mean concentrations of cadmium and mercury increased significantly (p < 0.001) with mean length of specimens. Overall, hazard quotient and hazard index values were below one so there is no health risk to consumers. According to molar ratios of Hg and Se in the edible portion (muscle) of sharks, and depending on the areas of collection, individuals from Baja California Sur might not be beneficial to consumers.

Comparison of Copper Concentration Between Rejected Renal Grafts and Cancerous Kidneys

In the body, disorders in the composition and concentration of trace elements, including copper, can lead to the development of various alterations that may result in incorrect functioning of the kidneys. Data on the concentrations of copper in human kidneys are discussed; however, little is known about the concentration of trace elements within rejected renal grafts and kidneys with tumor lesions. The aim of our study was to compare the copper concentration between cancerous kidneys and rejected renal grafts with the division on renal cortex and renal medulla. Material consisted of kidneys from patients hospitalized at the Department of Urology and General Surgery and Transplantation of the Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 2 at the Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, north-western Poland. The study material consisted of kidneys with tumor lesions (n = 33), and renal grafts (n = 10), obtained from patients belongs to the north-western areas of Poland. The examination was performed using ICP-AES method. Regarding the pathological kidneys, excluding grafts, the concentration of Cu in the renal cortex was 52% higher than in medullary region and the difference between the compared concentrations was statistically confirmed (p < 0.05). Taking into account renal grafts, the concentration of Cu in the medulla was slightly lower than in the cortex (less than 3%). In summary, copper in rejected and cancerous kidneys tends to accumulate in higher amount in the renal cortex than medulla, what can be explained by the fact that renal corpuscles, where the first phase of filtration is performed, are located only in the cortical region of the kidney. Furthermore, renal grafts accumulate significantly less copper than kidneys with neoplastic changes, what could have been caused by immunosuppressive medicines used by the graft recipients. The lower copper concentration in renal grafts could be a consequence of the altered immune system, including inflammatory process or/and non-immune mechanisms. Additionally, cancerous and non-cancerous kidneys exhibit different perfusion rate in renal glomeruli, what can finally lead to disparity in chemical elements concentration, including copper.

Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology of Hazardous Heavy Metals: Environmental Persistence, Toxicity, and Bioaccumulation

Heavy metals are well-known environmental pollutants due to their toxicity, persistence in the environment, and bioaccumulative nature. Their natural sources include weathering of metal-bearing rocks and volcanic eruptions, while anthropogenic sources include mining and various industrial and agricultural activities. Mining and industrial processing for extraction of mineral resources and their subsequent applications for industrial, agricultural, and economic development has led to an increase in the mobilization of these elements in the environment and disturbance of their biogeochemical cycles. Contamination of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems with toxic heavy metals is an environmental problem of public health concern. Being persistent pollutants, heavy metals accumulate in the environment and consequently contaminate the food chains. Accumulation of potentially toxic heavy metals in biota causes a potential health threat to their consumers including humans. This article comprehensively reviews the different aspects of heavy metals as hazardous materials with special focus on their environmental persistence, toxicity for living organisms, and bioaccumulative potential. The bioaccumulation of these elements and its implications for human health are discussed with a special coverage on fish, rice, and tobacco. The article will serve as a valuable educational resource for both undergraduate and graduate students and for researchers in environmental sciences. Environmentally relevant most hazardous heavy metals and metalloids include Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Pb, Hg, and As. The trophic transfer of these elements in aquatic and terrestrial food chains/webs has important implications for wildlife and human health. It is very important to assess and monitor the concentrations of potentially toxic heavy metals and metalloids in different environmental segments and in the resident biota. A comprehensive study of the environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology of hazardous heavy metals and metalloids shows that steps should be taken to minimize the impact of these elements on human health and the environment.

Heavy metal content and mobility in urban soils of public playgrounds and sport facility areas, Poland

Among the threats to air, soil, and water posed by urbanization, heavy metals appear particularly hazardous. Playgrounds and sport facilities are unique urban places, widely used by children and youth. The aim of this research was to evaluate heavy metal pollution in urban soils, identify relationships among topsoil metal distributions, and assess related health risks in two Polish cities - Warsaw and Bydgoszcz. According to the Regulation of the Polish Minister of the Environment guidelines for total content of Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cd and Co our study sites were classified as uncontaminated. Applied Geoaccumulation Index (I_geo; Müller, 1969) largely confirmed this classification, with only two of the investigated Warsaw areas "moderately polluted" with Pb. Generally, only Pb and Zn concentrations exceeded reference background levels for Polish soils. The highest concentrations of Pb and Zn were found in the city centers, the oldest areas where pollution risk is potentially the highest. Metal mobility and solubility were mainly correlated with total content, indicating potential risk from lead and zinc. At some sites in Warsaw, where mean Pb concentration was 87.25 mg kg^-1 and Zn 207.25 mg kg^-1, health risks from ingestion and inhalation seemed significant, particularly for children. In Bydgoszcz use of the studied playgrounds and sport facility areas did not pose a risk to human health. Finally, the study (especially in Warsaw) indicates the need for continued monitoring and suggests lowering permissible limits of these metals in soils, especially in recreational areas, may decrease childrens' exposure risk to these pollutants.

The Concentration of Vanadium in Pathologically Altered Human Kidneys

Vanadium has a unique and beneficial effect on both humans and animal organisms; however, excessive amount of the above-mentioned metal can cause many alterations in tissues and organs, including the kidneys. The aim of the study was to determine the concentration of vanadium (V) in the kidneys removed from patients due to lesions of various etiologies, including the rejection of the transplanted kidneys. Additionally, we determined the influence of selected biological and environmental factors on the V concentration. The study material consisted of the kidneys with tumor lesions (n = 27) and extracted kidney grafts (n = 10) obtained from patients from the north-western Poland. The V concentrations were assessed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry emission in inductively coupled argon plasma and expressed in concentrations in dry weight (dw). Statistically significant differences were observed for V concentrations in the renal medulla between the kidneys with tumors and renal grafts, where the lowest concentration of V was observed. The kidneys in more advanced stages of the tumor (T3 + T4) contained more vanadium than the kidneys of T1 + T2 stages and medians were 2.07 and 1.51, respectively. We also compared the V concentration in the kidneys between the renal grafts (K2) and the kidneys with tumor (K1) in two stages of advancement: T1 with T2 (K1_1 + 2) and T3 with T4 (K1_3 + 4). Statistically significant differences were noted between the renal medullae of the above-mentioned groups of kidneys.According to the previous studies on the concentrations of other heavy metals, renal grafts accumulate less vanadium than cancerous kidneys, what can be associated with the immunosuppressive drugs taken by patients after the transplantation.

Analysis of Blood Concentrations of Zinc, Germanium, and Lead and Relevant Environmental Factors in a Population Sample from Shandong Province, China

Trace elements, including zinc (Zn) and germanium (Ge), are essential for health; deficiency or excess levels of trace elements results is harmful. As a result of industrial and agricultural production, Pb widely exists in people’s living environment. It is absorbed mainly through the respiratory and digestive tracts, producing systemic harm. Reference values for a normal, healthy population are necessary for health assessment, prevention and treatment of related diseases, and evaluation of occupational exposures. Reference ranges for the Chinese population have not been established. From March 2009 to February 2010; we collected data and blood samples (n = 1302) from residents aged 6–60 years living in Shandong Province, China. We measured blood concentrations of Zn, Ge, and Pb using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to determine reference ranges. Results were stratified by factors likely to affect the concentrations of these trace elements: sex, use of cosmetics or hair dye, age, alcohol intake, smoking habits, and consumption of fried food. The overall geometric mean (GM) concentrations (95% confidence interval) were 3.14 (3.08–3.20) mg/L for Zn, 19.9 (19.3–20.6) μg/L for Ge, and 24.1 (23.2–25.1) μg/L for Pb. Blood Zn concentrations were higher in women than in men (p < 0.001), while the opposite was found for Pb (p < 0.001) and sex did not influence Ge (p = 0.095). Alcohol use was associated with higher blood concentrations of Zn (p = 0.002), Ge (p = 0.002), and Pb (p = 0.001). The GM concentration of Zn was highest in 20–30-year-olds (p < 0.001), while Pb concentrations were highest in 12–16-year-olds (p < 0.001). Use of hair dye was associated with lower blood concentrations of Ge (p < 0.05). GM blood concentrations of Pb differed significantly between those who consumed fried foods 1–2 times/month (18.7 μg/L), 1–2 times/week (20.9 μg/L), and every day (28.5 μg/L; p < 0.001). Blood Pb concentrations were higher in subjects who used cosmetics (p < 0.05), hair dye (p < 0.05), and who smoked cigarettes (p < 0.001) than in those who did not.