Accumulation of Heavy Metals in Vegetable Species Planted in Contaminated Soils and the Health Risk Assessment

Actinorhizal plants and Frankiaceae: The overlooked future of phytoremediation

Bioremediation of degraded soils is increasingly necessary due to rising food demand, reductions in agricultural productivity, and limitations in total available arable area. Several bioremediation strategies could be utilized to combat soil degradation, with phytoremediation emerging as a standout option due to its in situ approach and low implementation and maintenance costs compared to other methods. Phytoremediation is also a sustainable solution, which is increasingly desirable to blunt the progression of global warming. Actinorhizal plants display several desirable traits for application in phytoremediation, including the ability to revegetate saline soil and sequester heavy metals with low foliar translocation. Additionally, when grown in association with Frankiaceae endophytes, these abilities are improved and expanded to include the degradation of anthropogenic pollutants and the restoration of soil fertility. However, despite this significant potential to remediate marginalized land, the actinorhizal-Frankiaceae symbiosis remains heavily understudied and underutilized. This review aims to collate the scattered studies that demonstrate these bioremediation abilities and explain the mechanics behind such abilities to provide the necessary insight. Finally, this review will conclude with proposed future directions for utilizing this symbiosis and how it can be optimized further to facilitate improved bioremediation outcomes.

Use of phytoextraction with Noccaea caerulescens to limit the transfer of cadmium and zinc to subsequent rocket crops

Soil trace metal (TM) contamination is a worldwide issue and threatens food production and security. Remediation of cadmium (Cd) and zinc (Zn) contaminated soils by phytoextraction with the Zn/Cd hyperaccumulator Noccaea caerulescens is widely studied but few studies have investigated the efficiency of this technique to reduce Cd and Zn soil-to-crop transfers to subsequent vegetable crops. The vegetable biomonitor rocket Diplotaxis tenuifolia was grown in pots on 13 moderately contaminated soils that had previously been cropped with N. caerulescens. Using mixed-effects models, we show the drivers of rocket biomass, Cd and Zn concentrations. Our models show, for our study soils, the benefit of previous N. caerulescens uptake of Cd and Zn in decreasing Cd and Zn concentrations in a subsequent rocket crop. We also show a slight positive impact of N. caerulescens biomass (and therefore uptake) on rocket growth. Our data show that exchangeable soil concentrations are major drivers of Cd and Zn rocket concentrations. Other soil variables negatively driving rocket Cd and Zn concentrations are NO3- content, organic matter content, cation exchange capacity, and soil manganese which stimulate rocket biomass and/or influence TM bioavailability. Rocket D. tenuifolia seems to be a good biomonitor for contaminated soils as it is tolerant to relatively high TM soil concentrations. We demonstrate that 40 % of rockets grown on soils below 2 mg total Cd kg-1 dry soil have foliar Cd concentrations above the European maximum allowed level confirming the need to review soil legal thresholds to protect consumers' health. In conclusion, our study suggests promising use of N. caerulescens phytoextraction for bioavailable contaminant stripping which is all the more interesting given the increasing demand for urban growing spaces.

Nanopriming with phytofabricated selenium nanoparticles alleviates arsenite-induced oxidative stress in Spinacia oleracea L

Arsenic (As) contamination of agricultural soil has become a major concern due to its adverse effects on plant growth and human health. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), a novel selenium (Se) source, are characterised by their exceptional biocompatibility, degradability, and bioactivities. In the present study, SeNPs were biogenically synthesised and further characterised using UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, and TEM analysis. Different concentrations of the synthesised SeNPs were used to treat Spinacia oleracea L. (spinach) seeds to determine their impact on growth profile, gas exchange, photosynthetic pigments, oxidative stress, and antioxidant enzyme status upon arsenite (AsIII) treatment. The findings revealed that SeNP supplementation at a concentration of 100 µM (SeNPs100) led to a significant reduction in As accumulation by twofold in roots and 1.5-fold in leaves when compared to plants exposed to AsIII100 (µM) alone. Interestingly, the photosynthetic efficiency was also remarkably enhanced upon SeNPs100 treatment, associated with increased activities of the defence enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) in the AsIII + SeNP-exposed spinach plants as compared to AsIII treatment alone. Overall, the present study highlights the potential of biogenic SeNP supplementation in promoting plant growth and mitigating As toxicity in spinach under AsIII stress. This study could have significant implications for the use of SeNPs as a nanofertiliser in regions grappling with As-contaminated soils for sustainable agriculture and human health.

Hydrochar as a bio-based adsorbent for heavy metals removal: A review of production processes, adsorption mechanisms, kinetic models, regeneration and reusability

The spread of heavy metals throughout the ecosystem has extremely endangered human health, animals, plants, and natural resources. Hydrochar has emerged as a promising adsorbent for removal of heavy metals from water and wastewater. Hydrochar, obtained from hydrothermal carbonization of biomass, owns unique physical and chemical properties that are highly potent in capturing heavy metals via surface complexation, electrostatic interactions, and ion exchange mechanisms. This review focuses on removing heavy metals by hydrochar adsorbents from water bodies. The article discusses factors affecting the adsorption capacity of hydrochars, such as contact time, pH, initial metal concentration, temperature, and competing ions. Literature on optimization approaches such as surface modification, composite development, and hybrid systems are reviewed to enlighten mechanisms undertaking the efficiency of hydrochars in heavy metals removal from wastewater. The review also addresses challenges such as hydrochar regeneration and reusability, alongside potential issues related to its disposal and metal leaching. Integration with current water purification methods and the significance of ongoing research and initiatives promoting hydrochar-based technologies were also outlined. The article concludes that combining hydrochar with modern technologies such as nanotechnology and advanced oxidation techniques holds promise for improving heavy metal remediation. Overall, this comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights to guide future studies and foster the development of effective, affordable, and environmentally friendly heavy metal removal technologies to ensure the attainment of safer drinking water for communities worldwide.

Meta-analysis reveals the combined effects of microplastics and heavy metal on plants

The combined pollution of microplastics and heavy metals is becoming increasingly serious, and its effects on toxicology and heavy metal accumulation of plants are closely related to crop yield and population health. Here, we collected 57 studies to investigate the effect of microplastics on heavy metal accumulation in plants and their combined toxicity. An assessment was conducted to discover the primary pollutant responsible for the toxicity of combined pollution on plants. The study examined the influence of microplastic characteristics, heavy metal characteristics, and experimental methods on this pollutant. The results showed that combined toxicity of plants was more similar to heavy metals, whereas microplastics interacted with heavy metals mainly by inducing oxidative stress damage. Culture environment, heavy metal type, experimental duration, microplastic concentration and microplastic size were the main factors affecting heavy metal accumulation in plants. There was a negative correlation between experimental duration, microplastic concentration and microplastic size with heavy metal accumulation in plants. The interactions among influencing factors were found, and microplastic biodegradation was the core factor of the strong interaction. These results provided comprehensive insights and guiding strategies for environmental and public health risks caused by the combined pollution of microplastics and heavy metals.

Effects of foliar selenium, biochar, and pig manure on cadmium accumulation in rice grains and assessment of health risk

Addressing cadmium (Cd) contamination in agricultural lands is crucial, given its health implications and accumulation in crops. This study used pot experiments to evaluate the impact of foliar selenium spray (Se) (0.40 mM), corn straw biochar (1%), and pig manure (1%) on the growth of rice plants, the accumulation of Cd in rice grain, and to examine their influence on health risk indices associated with Cd exposure. The treatments were designated as follows: a control group without any amendment (CK), biochar (T1), pig manure (T2), Se (T3), Se and biochar (T4), Se and pig manure (T5), and Se along with biochar and pig manure (T6). Our results indicated that the treatments affected soil pH and redox potential and improved growth and the nitrogen and phosphorus content in rice plants. The soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) meter readings of leaves during the tillering stage indicated a 5.27%-15.86% increase in treatments T2 to T6 compared to CK. The flag leaves of T2 exhibited increases of 12.06%-38.94% for electrolyte leakage and an 82.61%-91.60% decline in SOD compared to treatments T3 to T6. Treatments T1 to T6 increased protein content; however, amylose content was significantly reduced in T6. Treatment T6 recorded the lowest Cd concentration in rice grains (0.018 mg/kg), while T2 recorded the highest (0.051 mg/kg). The CK treatment group showed a grain Cd content reduction of 29.30% compared to T2. The assessment of acceptable daily intake, hazard quotient, and carcinogenic risk revealed an ascending order as follows: T6 < T3 < T5 < T4 < T1 < CK < T2. In conclusion, the application of treatment T6 demonstrates the potential to lower oxidative stress, enhance production, reduce cancer risk, and ensure the safe cultivation of rice in environments affected by Cd contamination.

Synchrotron induced X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy reveals heavy metal translocation in sludge amended soil-plant systems: assessment of ecological and health risks

The use of composted sludge from sewage treatment plants as a soil amendment is a common practice of recycling nutrients like organic carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. The sewage generated in larger cities of developing countries is often contaminated with various heavy metals (HMs) that ultimately end up in composted sludge. Thus, using such composted sludge is likely to pose ecological and human health risks. Hence, the knowledge of HM translocation in sludge-soil-plant systems is of vital importance. The present study was aimed at investigating the HM translocation in sludge-soil-plant system. The HM translocation was measured using synchrotron radiation-induced x-ray fluorescence spectrometry and atomic absorption spectroscopic techniques. The results indicated high HM mobility (up to 2628.5 mg kg-1) from sludge to spinach plant. The metal accumulation (mg kg-1) ranged in the order-Fe (950.55-2628.5) > Zn (20.11-172.13) > Cu (13.86-136.17) > Mn (2.13-34.67) > Cd (0.11-31.17) > Pb (1.50-30.16) > Co (0.18-9.85) As (0.02-7.80) > Cr (0.01-5.69). This observed accumulation depended on the volume of sewage being treated in the sewage treatment plant (STP) and varied in the order control < (8 MLD Bhagwanpur, STP 1) < (80 MLD Dinapur, STP2) < (140 MLD Dinapur, STP3) hence the HM load coming into STPs. The metal transfer factor, bioconcentration factor, and translocation factor values also correlated with the abundance of Fe, Cu, Pb, Cd, and Zn in spinach root and shoot compartments. The carcinogenic risk for heavy metal carcinogens like As, Cd, Cr, and Pb revealed children being more prone to cancer upon spinach consumption. Hence, it is necessary to assess the heavy metals present in the sludge prior to its application in agricultural fields.

Risk assessment of As, Cd, Cr, and Pb via the consumption of seafood in Haikou

In order to mitigate the risk of excessive heavy metal intake, a study was conducted to assess the levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb) contamination in 23 edible seafood species obtained from markets in Haikou. The findings were analyzed to evaluate the potential health hazards posed to the local population through consumption. The metals were detected via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for quantification. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health risks in humans were assessed via target hazard quotient (THQ), combined target hazard quotient (CTHQ), and target cancer risk (TR). The results indicated that the rank order based on the median metal concentration was As > Cd > Cr > Pb. THQ and CTHQ showed that nine seafood species posed a non-carcinogenic risk regarding from As and Cd consumption separately, or the four targeted metals ingestion together. TR assessment indicated that the InAs in all the species presented a carcinogenic risk to coastal residents. The Cd content in bivalves, algae, and several crustacean (Mantis Shrimp, Orchid Crab, Red spot Swimming Crab) and fish species (Japanese Scad, Pacific Saury), and Cr levels in most bivalve species (Razor Clams, White Clams, Fan Shells, Oysters, Blood Clams) presented a carcinogenic risk. The As, Cd, Pb, and Cr levels of seafood in Haikou were assessed species presented a potential health risk. Necessitating stricter risk should be management and detection capability and monitoring will be improved.

Nitrate, Nitrite, and Iodine Concentrations in Commercial Edible Algae: An Observational Study

Edible algae are a natural source of nutrients, including iodine, and can also contain nitrogen in the form of nitrate (NO3-) and nitrite (NO2-) as they can fix nitrogen from seawater. This study aimed to analyse the NO3-, NO2-, and iodine concentrations in eighteen macroalgae and five microalgae species commercially available in the United Kingdom. NO3- and NO2- concentrations were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and iodine was determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). NO3- and iodine concentrations in macroalgae (NO3-: 4050.13 ± 1925.01 mg/kg; iodine: 1925.01 ± 1455.80 mg/kg) were significantly higher than in microalgae species (NO3-: 55.73 ± 93.69 mg/kg; iodine: 17.61 ± 34.87 mg/kg; p < 0.001 for both). In the macroalgae group, nori had the highest NO3- (17,191.33 ± 980.89 mg/kg) and NO2- (3.64 ± 2.38 mg/kg) content, as well as the highest iodine content. Among microalgae, Dunaliella salina had the highest concentration of NO3- (223.00 ± 21.93 mg/kg) and iodine (79.97 ± 0.76 mg/kg), while Spirulina had the highest concentration of NO2- (7.02 ± 0.13 mg/kg). These results indicate that commercially available edible algae, particularly macroalgae species, could be a relevant dietary source of NO3- and iodine.

Contamination, speciation, and health risk assessment of arsenic in leafy vegetables in Ambagarh Chowki (India)

Green leafy vegetables are essential for a balanced diet, providing vital nutrients for overall well-being. However, concerns arise due to contamination with toxic substances, such as arsenic, posing risks to food safety and human health. This study analyzes inorganic (iAs), monomethyl (MMA), and dimethyl arsenic (DMA) in specific leafy vegetables (Amaranthus tricolor L., Corchorus olitorius L., Cordia myxa L., Hibiscus sabdariffa L., Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam., Moringa oleifera Lam., and Spinacia oleracea L.) grown in the heavily polluted Ambagarh Chouki region, Chhattisgarh, India. Concentrations of DMA, MMA, and iAs ranged from 0 to 155, 0 to 7, and 131 to 3579 mg·kg-1, respectively. The health quotient (HQ) for iAs ranged between 0.37 and 3.78, with an average value of 2.58 ± 1.08.

Metal content, bioaccumulation, translocation, and health risk assessment of root vegetables grown in KwaZulu-Natal small-scale farms of South Africa

Metal uptake by vegetables is becoming a threat to the life of consumers. Therefore, continuous monitoring of metals in vegetables and soils is becoming a necessity. In this study, the occurrence of 18 metals in amadumbe (Colocasia esculenta L.), sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L.), potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.), and carrots (Daucus carrota L.) grown in small-scale South African agricultural farms was monitored using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy. All the 18 investigated elements were detected in soils and different vegetative plants parts. Bioaccumulation factors indicated the transfer of selected metals from soils into the plant roots. Toxic metals Cd, Cr, and Pb had their concentrations exceeding the maximum permissible levels set by the World Health Organization in the edible parts of all root vegetables. Cd and Pb varied between 18.89 and 19.19 mg kg-1 and 10.46 and 11.46 mg kg-1, respectively, while Cr remained constant at 16.78 mg kg-1. The exact metals together with As and Ni had their total hazard quotients exceeding the threshold value of 1, which indicated that the daily consumption of the investigated root vegetables is likely to pose health risks to both adults and children. Therefore, this study points out to a possibility of toxic health effects that could arise when these vegetables are consumed daily.

Transfer of heavy metals from soil to vegetables: A comparative assessment of different irrigation water sources

This study aimed to assess the transfer factor (TF) of heavy metals (HMs) from soil to commonly consumed vegetables irrigated with different water sources. The field study covered 36 m2 of agricultural land in Kermanshah province, Iran, divided into nine equal-sized plots. Coriander, basil, and radish were the three types of vegetables cultivated and subjected to irrigation over two months, utilizing three different water sources: treated wastewater effluent (TWE), river water (RW), and well water + nitrogen fertilizer (WWF). After the irrigation and harvesting stages, soil samples from the cultivation area and harvested vegetables were collected. These samples underwent analysis using the ICP-OES method to assess HM levels and subsequent calculation of the TF of HMs from soil to plants. The results revealed that the TF levels indicated plants' relatively weak response (TF < 1) to the absorption of HMs. For non-toxic elements (Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, Ni), TF values were generally higher than those for toxic elements (Cd, As, Pb) across all three vegetable types and irrigation treatments. The study's findings suggest that the TF of HMs in the studied vegetables varied based on the irrigation source and vegetable type. Various factors, including the type of irrigation source and vegetable, influenced the TF of HMs, each having different impacts on the transfer rate of each HM. The study highlights the importance of monitoring irrigation water and soil quality to prevent the accumulation of HMs in cultivated vegetables, thereby mitigating potential risks to human health.

Selenium and other heavy metal levels in different rice brands commonly consumed in Pretoria, South Africa

For centuries, rice has been a dietary staple food partially due to its accessibility, affordability, and nutritional content. However, it has been documented that plants can bioaccumulate trace elements from soil and store them in their tissues therefore necessitating monitoring of its nutritional quality. The current study investigated the Selenium and heavy metal contents of various brands of rice obtained from different retail stores in Pretoria, South Africa. The analysis was carried out using different rice samples and different methods/stages of cooking rice including the analysis of rinsed rice water (RW), raw rice (RR), cooked rice (CR), and cooked rice water (CW), for trace elements content using the Inductive Couple Plasma Mass Spectrometry. The results revealed that the Se content ranged from 0.013 ± 0.01 mg/kg - 0.089 ± 0.06 mg/kg in RR, 0.013 ± 0.01 mg/kg - 0.046 ± 0.01 mg/kg in CR, 0.01 ± 0.01mg/kg- 0.028 ± 0.00 mg/kg in RW and 0.01 ± 0.01 mg/kg - 0.048 ± 0.01 mg/kg in CW. The calculated estimated dietary intake (EDI) of Se was recorded as follows; raw rice (7.06 × 10-5 mg/day), cooked rice (5.01 × 10-5 mg/day), water from cooked rice (4.54 × 10-5 mg/day) and rinsed water of raw rice (3.97 × 10-5 mg/day). The concentrations of all other heavy metals measured were within the WHO-recommended limits. The HQ for all the trace metals in all the samples did not exceed one, implying that there is no health risk from trace metals analysed in this study from the consumption of the rice brands used in this study. The results of this study demonstrated that reliance on rice alone for the supply of Se may be inadequate owing to the values obtained in our study. Constant monitoring of the nutritional contents of food products may be required to improve the overall nutritional well-being of the consumers.

Multicontamination Toxicity Evaluation in the Model Plant Lactuca sativa L

Many contaminated soils contain several toxic elements (TEs) in elevated contents, and plant-TE interactions can differ from single TE contamination. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of combined contamination (As, Cd, Pb, Zn) on the physiological and metabolic processes of lettuce. After 45 days of exposure, TE excess in soil resulted in the inhibition of root and leaf biomass by 40 and 48%, respectively. Oxidative stress by TE accumulation was indicated by markers-malondialdehyde and 5-methylcytosine-and visible symptoms of toxicity (leaf chlorosis, root browning) and morpho-anatomical changes, which were related to the change in water regime (water potential decrease). An analysis of free amino acids (AAs) indicated that TEs disturbed N and C metabolism, especially in leaves, increasing the total content of free AAs and their families. Stress-induced senescence by TEs suggested changes in gas exchange parameters (increase in transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, and intercellular CO2 concentration), photosynthetic pigments (decrease in chlorophylls and carotenoids), a decrease in water use efficiency, and the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II. These results confirmed that the toxicity of combined contamination significantly affected the processes of lettuce by damaging the antioxidant system and expressing higher leaf sensitivity to TE multicontamination.

Heavy metals and potential health risk assessment of Lactuca sativa and Daucus carrota from soil treated with organic manures and chemical fertilizer

The large-scale production of food crops with heavy application of chemical fertilizers in the effort to meet the astronomical increase in food demands may be counterproductive to the goal of food security. This study investigated the effect of different soil treatments on the levels of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in two types of vegetables Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and Daucus carrota (carrot). The potential carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks from their consumption were also evaluated. Planting experiment was set up in a randomized block design, with different soil treatments of soil + cow dung (CD), soil + sewage sludge (SS), soil + chemical fertilizer (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (NPK)), and untreated soil (UNTRD). The vegetables were harvested at maturity, washed with distilled water, and subjected to an acid digestion process before the levels of heavy metals were measured by inductively coupled plasma spectrometry (ICP-MS). The mean concentrations of the metals in the vegetables across all treatments were below the maximum permissible limits. The pattern of heavy metal accumulation by the vegetables suggested that the lettuce from SS treatment accumulated higher concentrations of heavy metals like Cr (0.20 mg/kg), Cu (3.91 mg/kg), Ni (0.33 mg/kg), and Zn (20.44 mg/kg) than carrot, with highest concentrations of Fe (90.89 mg/kg) and Pb (0.16 mg/kg) recorded in lettuce from NPK treatment. The bioaccumulation factor (BAF) showed that lettuce, a leafy vegetable, has bioaccumulated more heavy metals than carrot, a root vegetable. The BAF was generally below the threshold value of 1 in both vegetables, except in lettuce from NPK and CD treatments and carrot from NPK treatments, with BAF values of 1.6, 1.69, and 1.39, respectively. The cancer risk assessment factors were well below the unacceptable maximum range of 10-4 suggesting that consuming these vegetables might not expose an individual to potential risk of cancer development. The hazard quotient estimations were below the threshold values of 1 for all heavy metals; however, the hazard index (HI) values of 1.27 and 1.58 for lettuce from NPK and SS treatments indicate a potential non-carcinogenic health risk to consumers from intake of all the heavy metals.

Nutritional Quality of Conventional, Organic, and Hydroponic Tomatoes Commercialized in Quito, Ecuador

The consumption of natural foods is increasingly high, and in recent years, consumers have preferred foods from systems with responsible management of natural resources (organic, hydroponic). However, there are still contradictions regarding the nutritional content of products from these different types of crops. Our study aims to compare, for the first time, the content of antioxidants (ascorbic acid, lycopene, total phenolics, essential fatty acids), micronutrients (copper, iron, manganese, zinc), contaminants (cadmium and lead), and free radical scavenging activity between conventional, organic, and hydroponic tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) sold in markets in Quito, Ecuador. Ascorbic acid and lycopene were determined by HPLC/UV-Vis. Total phenolics (Folin-Ciocalteu method) and free-radical scavenging activity (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method) were determined via UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Lipid profiles were determined as fatty acid methyl esters through a GC-FID. Trace metals were determined using FAAS (micronutrients), and GFAAS (pollutants). No significant differences (p > 0.05) between antioxidant and micronutrient content among the three types of tomatoes were found. Regarding cadmium and lead, the contents were below the Codex Alimentarius threshold limits. Finally, free radical scavenging activity varied slightly (organic > hydroponic > conventional). Although the samples showed certain differences in antioxidant content, none of the tomato types could be considered nutritionally better because of the high variability of the results.

Risk Assessment and Sources Apportionment of Toxic Metals in Two Commonly Consumed Fishes from a Subtropical Estuarine Wetland System

The widespread occurrence of heavy metals in aquatic environments, resulting in their bioaccumulation within aquatic organisms like fish, presents potential hazards to human health. This study investigates the concentrations of five toxic heavy metals (Pb, Hg, Zn, Cu, and Cr) and their potential health implications in two economically important fish species (Otolithoides pama and Labeo bata) from a subtropical estuarine wetland system (Feni estuary, Bangladesh). Muscle and gill samples from 36 individual fish were analyzed using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The results revealed that the average quantities of heavy metals in both fishes' muscle followed the declining order of Zn (109.41-119.93 mg/kg) > Cu (45.52-65.43 mg/kg) > Hg (1.25-1.39 mg/kg) > Pb (0.68-1.12 mg/kg) > Cr (0.31-5.82 mg/kg). Furthermore, Zn was found to be present in the highest concentration within the gills of both species. While the levels of Cu, Zn, and Cr in the fish muscle were deemed acceptable for human consumption, the concentrations of Pb and Hg exceeded the permissible limits (>0.5 mg/kg) for human consumption. Different risk indices, including estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI), and carcinogenic or target risk (TR), revealed mixed and varying degrees of potential threat to human health. According to the EDI values, individuals consuming these fish may face health risks as the levels of Zn, Cu, and Cr in the muscle are either very close to or exceed the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI) threshold. Nevertheless, the THQ and HI values suggested that both species remained suitable for human consumption, as indicated by THQ (<1) and HI (<1) values. Carcinogenic risk values for Pb, Cr, and Zn all remained within permissible limits, with TR values falling below the range of (10-6 to 10-4), except for Zn, which exceeded it (>10-4). The correlation matrix and multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) findings revealed that Pb and Cr primarily stemmed from natural geological backgrounds, whereas Zn, Cu, and Hg were attributed to human-induced sources such as agricultural chemicals, silver nanoparticles, antimicrobial substances, and metallic plating. Given the significance of fish as a crucial and nutritious element of a balanced diet, it is essential to maintain consistent monitoring and regulation of the levels and origins of heavy metals found within it.

Silicon's Influence on Polyphenol and Flavonoid Profiles in Pea (Pisum sativum L.) under Cadmium Exposure in Hydroponics: A Study of Metabolomics, Extraction Efficacy, and Antimicrobial Properties of Extracts

The current study aimed to investigate the impact of silicon (Si) supplementation in the form of Na2SiO3 on the metabolome of peas under normal conditions and following exposure to cadmium (Cd) stress. Si is known for its ability to enhance stress tolerance in various plant species, including the mitigation of heavy metal toxicity. Cd, a significant contaminant, poses risks to both human health and the environment. The study focused on analyzing the levels of bioactive compounds in different plant parts, including the shoot, root, and pod, to understand the influence of Si supplementation on their biosynthesis. Metabolomic analysis of pea samples was conducted using a targeted HPLC/MS approach, enabling the identification of 15 metabolites comprising 9 flavonoids and 6 phenolic acids. Among the detected compounds, flavonoids, such as flavon and quercetin, along with phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid and salicylic acid, were found in significant quantities. The study compared Si supplementation at concentrations of 1 and 2 mM, as well as Cd stress conditions, to evaluate their effects on the metabolomic profile. Additionally, the study explored the extraction efficiency of three different methods: accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and maceration (MAC). The results revealed that SFE was the most efficient method for extracting polyphenolic compounds from the pea samples. Moreover, the study investigated the stability of polyphenolic compounds under different pH conditions, ranging from 4.0 to 6.0, providing insights into the influence of the pH on the extraction and stability of bioactive compounds.

Determination of caffeine in treated wastewater discharged in the Nile River with emphasis on the effect of zinc and physicochemical factors

The present study aimed to investigate the occurrence of caffeine residues in the Nile River according to drainage of treated wastewater at Assiut, Egypt, and the effects of physicochemical parameters and zinc on its concentration. Four different sites were selected to perform the study: S, wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) canal (source site); J, a junction site between WWTP canal and the Nile; R, a reference site in the Nile before J site; and A, a site located after J site in the Nile. Water and sediment samples were collected in Summer 2022 and Winter 2023. Caffeine and Zn concentrations and physicochemical parameters were measured in the collected samples. The caffeine concentrations in water samples ranged from 5.73 to 53.85 μg L-1 at S in winter and summer, respectively, while those in sediment ranged from 0.14 mg kg-1 at R in winter to 1.54 mg kg-1 at S in summer. Caffeine and Zn concentrations were higher in summer samples. The Water Quality Index (WQI) of the collected samples recorded the lowest values in winter season at S and J sites. The study found that caffeine and zinc concentrations are positively correlated with water temperature and conductivity, while negatively correlated with pH. The association between caffeine and Zn highlights the environmental impact of heavy metals and pharmaceutical residues, and stresses the need for future research on these interactions.

WITHDRAWN: Trace metals translocation from soil to plants: Health risk assessment via consumption of vegetables in the urban sprawl of a developing country

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Polycaprolactone/polyacrylic acid/graphene oxide composite nanofibers as a highly efficient sorbent to remove lead toxic metal from drinking water and apple juice

Due to the characteristics of electrospun nanofibers (NFs), they are considered a suitable substrate for the adsorption and removal of heavy metals. Electrospun nanofibers are prepared based on optimized polycaprolactone (PCL, 12 wt%) and polyacrylic acid (PAA, 1 wt%) polymers loaded with graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO NPs, 1 wt%). The morphological, molecular interactions, crystallinity, thermal, hydrophobicity, and biocompatibility properties of NFs are characterized by spectroscopy (scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Thermogravimetric analysis), contact angle, and MTT tests. Finally, the adsorption efficacy of NFs to remove lead (Pb2+) from water and apple juice samples was determined using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES). The average diameter for PCL, PCL/PAA, and PCL/PAA/GO NFs was 137, 500, and 216 nm, respectively. Additionally, the contact angle for PCL, PCL/PAA, and PCL/PAA/GO NFs was obtained at 74.32º, 91.98º, and 94.59º, respectively. The cytotoxicity test has shown non-toxicity for fabricated NFs against the HUVEC endothelial cell line by more than 80% survival during 72 h. Under optimum conditions including pH (= 6), temperature (25 °C), Pb concentration (25 to 50 mg/L), and time (15 to 30 min), the adsorption efficiency was generally between 80 and 97%. The adsorption isotherm model of PCL/PAA/GO NFs in the adsorption of lead metal follows the Langmuir model, and the reaction kinetics follow the pseudo-second-order. PCL/PA/GO NFs have shown adsorption of over 80% in four consecutive cycles. The adsorption efficacy of NFs to remove Pb in apple juice has reached 76%. It is appropriate and useful to use these nanofibers as a high-efficiency adsorbent in water and food systems based on an analysis of their adsorption properties and how well they work.

Health Risk Assessment of Lead, Cadmium, and Arsenic in Leafy Vegetables in Tehran, Iran: the Concentration Data Study

Absorption of heavy and toxic metals causes their accumulation in the edible parts of vegetables. Pollutants such as heavy metals have directly affected the health of society and contributed to emerging diseases in recent years. The current study aimed to detect heavy metals (Pb, Cd, As) in highly consumed leafy vegetables provided from the Tehran market. Four types of vegetables, including dill, parsley, cress, and coriander were selected and 64 samples were randomly collected from fruit and vegetable markets in different regions of Tehran in August and September 2022. Then, samples were analyzed by the ICP-OES system, and health risk assessment was conducted using non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic approach. The range of Pb concentration was 54-314, < LOQ-289, < LOQ-230, and < LOQ-183 μg/kg for dill, cress, parsley, and coriander, respectively. The high mean concentrations of Pb belong to the dill (161.43 ± 77.3 μg/kg) and cress (154.75 ± 72.9 μg/kg). In some samples of dill (37.5% of samples), cress (18.75% of samples), and parsley (12.5% of samples), the Pb content was above the national allowable limit (200 μg/kg). The range of Cd concentration was < LOQ-42, < LOQ-41, < LOQ-30, and < LOQ-38 μg/kg for dill, cress, parsley, and coriander, respectively. In none of the samples, the concentration of Cd was higher than the Iranian national limit (50 μg/kg). The As occurrence was observed in all cress samples with a mean of 165.19 ± 64.83 μg/kg. The range of As concentration was < LOQ-71, < LOQ-256, 58-273, and < LOQ-75 μg/kg for parsley, dill, cress, and coriander, respectively. The THQ and HI values were higher than 1, and either ILCR value was higher than 10-4 for all tested heavy metals, it can be concluded that higher levels of heavy metals than the standard limits in some samples may raise the warning alarm and should come to the attention of the authorities.

Research progress of the detection and analysis methods of heavy metals in plants

Heavy metal (HM)-induced stress can lead to the enrichment of HMs in plants thereby threatening people's lives and health via the food chain. For this reason, there is an urgent need for some reliable and practical techniques to detect and analyze the absorption, distribution, accumulation, chemical form, and transport of HMs in plants for reducing or regulating HM content. Not only does it help to explore the mechanism of plant HM response, but it also holds significant importance for cultivating plants with low levels of HMs. Even though this field has garnered significant attention recently, only minority researchers have systematically summarized the different methods of analysis. This paper outlines the detection and analysis techniques applied in recent years for determining HM concentration in plants, such as inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS), atomic fluorescence spectrometry (AFS), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (XRF), laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), non-invasive micro-test technology (NMT) and omics and molecular biology approaches. They can detect the chemical forms, spatial distribution, uptake and transport of HMs in plants. For this paper, the principles behind these techniques are clarified, their advantages and disadvantages are highlighted, their applications are explored, and guidance for selecting the appropriate methods to study HMs in plants is provided for later research. It is also expected to promote the innovation and development of HM-detection technologies and offer ideas for future research concerning HM accumulation in plants.

Bioaccumulation and sources of metal(loid)s in fish species from a subtropical river in Bangladesh: a public health concern

Toxic metals and freshwater fish's metalloid contamination are significant environmental concerns for overall public health. However, the bioaccumulation and sources of metal(loids) in freshwater fishes from Bangladesh still remain unknown. Thus, the As, Pb, Cd, and Cr concentrations in various freshwater fish species from the Rupsha River basin were measured, including Tenualosa ilisha, Gudusia chapra, Otolithoides pama, Setipinna phasa, Mystus vittatus, Glossogobius giuris, and Pseudeutropius atherinoides. An atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to determine metal concentrations. The mean concentrations of metal(loids) in the fish muscle (mg/kg) were found to be As (1.53) > Pb (1.25) > Cr (0.51) > Cd (0.39) in summer and As (1.72) > Pb (1.51) > Cr (0.65) > Cd (0.49) in winter. The analyzed fish species had considerably different metal(loid) concentrations with seasonal variation, and the distribution of the metals (loids) was consistent with the normal distribution. The demersal species, M. vittatus, displayed the highest bio-accumulative value over the summer. However, in both seasons, none of the species were bio-accumulative. According to multivariate statistical findings, the research area's potential sources of metal(loid) were anthropogenic activities linked to geogenic processes. Estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient (THQ), and carcinogenic risk (CR) were used to assess the influence of the risk on human health. The consumers' THQs values were < 1, indicating that there were no non-carcinogenic concerns for local consumers. Both categories of customers had CRs that fell below the permissible range of 1E - 6 to 1E - 4, meaning they were not at any increased risk of developing cancer. The children's group was more vulnerable to both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic hazards. Therefore, the entry of metal(loids) must be regulated, and appropriate laws must be used by policymakers.

A Comprehensive Review on Shilajit: What We Know about Its Chemical Composition

Shilajit, a natural material known for thousands of years, is primarily famous because it was the main constituent used for the mummification of bodies by dynastic Egyptians. However, for millennia, it has also been an important drug and supplement in traditional and modern medicine. A full search of Shilajit in the literature, reveals that its chemical composition is not known with certainty. That's due to the fact that surprisingly, no comprehensive chemical analysis has ever been performed to find all the chemicals and species present in it. Moreover, its source is not known; some believe that it is formed from dead plant residues or animal excrements, and some others believe it is a mineral secreted from rocks gradually. In this review article, it is tried to gather chemical property information available regarding this soft, mysterious black material to clarify what it is composed of and what formulation commercial supplements and drugs based on Shilajit may have. While there are many differences in the chemical compositions of Shilajit from various regions, it has been discovered that more than 80% of weight of Shilajit is mainly composed of humic substances and almost 20% of its weight consists of calcium, potassium, and magnesium. It also contains amino acids (mainly glycine) and proteins, fatty acids, bioactive compounds such as caffeic acid and gallic acid, and heavy metals including chromium, selenium, and cobalt.

Source apportionment and risk assessment of heavy metals in typical greenhouse vegetable soils in Shenyang, China

In this study, the concentrations of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cd, As, and Hg in the typical greenhouse vegetable soils in Shenyang, Northeast of China, were determined, and the pollution characteristics and primary sources of heavy mental pollution in soil were analyzed. Results showed that the sum of the mean values of eight typical heavy metals in the soil of the greenhouse soils was 219.79 mg/kg. According to the "Chinese Environmental Quality Evaluation Standard for Farmland of Greenhouse Vegetables Production" (HJ/T 333-2006), the concentrations of Cu (33.50 ± 11.99 mg/kg), Cd (0.246 ± 0.156 mg/kg), and Hg (0.214 ± 0.177 mg/kg) exceeded the limit values in 14.29%, 39.29%, and 39.29% of sampling points, respectively. The single factor pollution index and the Nemerow comprehensive pollution index of heavy metal elements showed that most greenhouse soils were at safety, alert, or light pollution levels. The potential ecological risk index (RI = 505.19) showed that 42.86% of the samples were at high or very high risk and Cd and Hg were the main ecological risk factors. Based on the result of correlation analysis, the Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) differentiated sources of heavy metal pollution in the study area into four components, including fertilizer input, soil parent material, pesticide spraying and raw coal combustion, and plastic film mulching, which accounted for 36.76%, 22.64%, 20.89%, and 19.71%, respectively, of the total sources of heavy metals.

Occurrence, Source and Dietary Exposure of Toxic and Essential Elements in the Indian Food Basket

In this study, representative urban and peri-urban Indian food baskets have been studied for the presence of toxic and essential elements. The concentration of target toxic and essential elements was used to estimate dietary intakes (EDIs) and health risks. Across all food matrices, toxic elements like Cd and Pb were dominant. The highest concentrations of the target elements were found in vegetables, with Cd, Pb, and Ni being beyond permissible limits of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health organization (0.05 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, and 1.5 mg/kg, respectively) in okra, spinach, and cauliflower. The sum of concentrations of the toxic elements (As, Ni, Hg, Cr, Cd, Pb) in vegetables had a range of 0.54-12.08 mg/kg, the highest sum was found in spinach (median 12.08 mg/kg), followed by okra (median 1.68 mg/kg). The EDI was observed for vegetables with a contribution as high as 92% for Cd. Dairy products were found with the highest loading for Ni with a dietary intake of 3.1 mg/kg/day for adults and twice as much for children. Carcinogenic risk for Ni was the highest and found above the threshold for all food categories, as was the case with As. Cumulative carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks were mostly contributed by milk and vegetables, in particular, spinach.

Zinc and nano zinc mediated alleviation of heavy metals and metalloids in plants: an overview

Heavy metals and metalloids (HMs) contamination in the environment has heightened recently due to increasing global concern for food safety and human livability. Zinc (Zn2+ ) is an important nutrient required for the normal development of plants. It is an essential cofactor for the vital enzymes involved in various biological mechanisms of plants. Interestingly, Zn2+ has an additional role in the detoxification of HMs in plants due to its unique biochemical-mediating role in several soil and plant processes. During any exposure to high levels of HMs, the application of Zn2+ would confer greater plant resilience by decreasing oxidative stress, maintaining uptake of nutrients, photosynthesis productivity and optimising osmolytes concentration. Zn2+ also has an important role in ameliorating HMs toxicity by regulating metal uptake through the expression of certain metal transporter genes, targeted chelation and translocation from roots to shoots. This review examined the vital roles of Zn2+ and nano Zn in plants and described their involvement in alleviating HMs toxicity in plants. Moving forward, a broad understanding of uptake, transport, signalling and tolerance mechanisms of Zn2+ /zinc and its nanoparticles in alleviating HMs toxicity of plants will be the first step towards a wider incorporation of Zn2+ into agricultural practices.

Mercury May Pose Higher Ecological and Human Health Risks than Lead in Vegetables Cultivated on Solid Wastes Dumpsites Soils

Vegetable cultivation on solid wastes dumpsites (SWD) soils is very common in developing countries though unsafe due to heavy metals pollution. In order to evaluate the ecological and human health risks of this practice, Talium triangulare and Lycopersicon esculentum were grown in a greenhouse on soils from two abandoned and active SWD, and control site. The SWD soils were acidic (pH 6.4-6.8), rich in organic matter (10.15%-15.35%) and the heavy metals content patterned Zn > Mn > Hg > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd. Ecological risk was very high ([Formula: see text] = 396.40; RI = 400) for waterworks dumpsite (WWD) and was > 99% attributable to Hg. Pb was not accumulated in either vegetable but Hg levels exceeded FAO/WHO limits. HQ was mostly < 1 except for Hg (0.47-3.42) and Co (0-1.33) while THQ > 1 for T. triangulare and cancer risks exceeded 10-6-10-4 acceptable limits. Regular monitoring and outlawing of vegetable cultivation on SWD is advocated to avert Hg toxicity.

Heavy metals in vegetables: a review of status, human health concerns, and management options

For sustainable global growth, food security is a prime concern issue, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Adverse effects on crop quality from contaminants like heavy metals have affected food security and human health. Vegetables comprise the essential and nutritious part of the human diet as they contain a lot of health-promoting minerals and vitamins. However, the inadvertent excess accumulation of heavy metals (As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) in vegetables and their subsequent intake by humans may affect their physiology and metabolomics and has been associated with diseases like cancer, mental retardation, and immunosuppression. Many known sources of hazardous metals are volcano eruptions, soil erosion, use of chemical fertilizers in agriculture, the use of pesticides and herbicides, and irrigation with wastewater, industrial effluents, etc. that contaminate the vegetables through the soil, air and water. In this review, the problem of heavy metal contamination in vegetables is discussed along with the prospective management strategies like soil amendments, application of bioadsorbents, membrane filtration, bioremediation, and nanoremediation.

The accumulation of element and heavy metal concentrations in different parts of some carrot and radish types

Vegetables, which are an important part of human nutrition, are very rich in minerals necessary for human health, and heavy metals can be found in vegetables at high rates because they can be easily taken by plant roots and leaves. In this study, the macro, micro element and heavy metal element concentrations accumulated in different parts of some carrot and radish types were investigated. The element concentrations in the samples were analyzed by Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES; Varian-Vista Model) equipment. P, K, Ca, Mg and S contents of the head of orange and black carrot samples were determined as 602.30 and 727.23 mg/kg, 19,790.91 and 22,230.21 mg/kg, 1765.66 and 1609.41 mg/kg, 580.34 and 660.79 mg/kg and 376.21 and 4444.46 mg /kg respectively. Also, exterior parts of orange and black carrots contained 281.65 and 336.43 mg/kg P, 7768.37 and 10,109.44 mg/kg K, 169.88 and 272.18 mg/kg Ca, 112.08 and 189.28 mg/kg Mg and 135.43 and 217.60 mg/kg S, respectively. P and K contents of the head parts of radish samples (white, red and black radish) were determined between 302.14 (red radish) and 1111.53 mg/kg (black radish) to 13,717.2 (red radish) and 22,202.4 mg/kg (white radish), respectively. Fe amounts of the roots of radish samples changed between20.47 (red radish) and 45.93 mg/kg (white radish). As and Ba were the most abundant heavy metals in both carrot and radish parts. The Ni contents of the parts of the carrots contain more than 50% lower than the head part. Also, while Pb contents of the parts of orange carrot change between 0.189 µg/g (interior of body) and 0.976 µg/g (shell), Pb amounts of the black carrot parts were recorded between 0.136 (head) and 0.536 µg/g (interior of body). The results obtained differed according to the vegetable type and parts. The head part of the radishes was the richest in zinc, followed by root, shell, exterior of body and interior of body in descending order. In general, the parts where heavy metals were most localized were the head and shell parts. The most localized parts of heavy metals in radishes were the head, shell and root parts. As a result, the most of the edible inner parts of carrots and radishes are thought to have a positive effect on human health, since their heavy metal content is low.

Assessment of Edaphic pollution indices and bioaccumulation of trace metals in Solanum lycopersicum, Spinacia oleracea and Triticum aestivum: an associated health risk evaluation

The present study investigates bioaccumulation factor (B_fc), Edaphic pollution indices and associated health risk assessment of trace metals (TMs) i.e., Cu, Fe, Zn, Mn and Co in the crops, agricultural soil (AgS), and irrigation water (IgW) collected from various peri-urban area of metropolitan city of India, Lucknow. Though the level of these TMs was within the permissible limits (PL) (FAO/WHO, 2011) in AgS and IgW however it was higher than PL in tomato, spinach and wheat cultivated in the fields. The bioaccumulation factor of Cu, Fe and Mn in edible parts of tomato, spinach and wheat was 8 to 25 times higher through the AgS and 10 to 300 times higher through the IgW in the tomato, spinach and wheat samples. The enrichment factor (E^fc), contamination factor (C^fc), contamination degree (C_dg) and modified contamination degree (mC_dg) values of Co, Cu, Mn, Fe and Zn ranged from low to high levels of contamination, whereas the geo-accumulation index reflected low contamination in agricultural soil. on the other hand, the metal pollution load index (M_pi) was found strongly contaminated in most of the study areas. Due to the consumption of these contaminated vegetables and cereal (VCs) by human consumers, the hazard quotient (HQ), total hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (HI) were found to be more than the requisite value of 1, which indicates a far-long health risk in this crowded city and its surrounding regions.

Organic-inorganic composite modifiers enhance restoration potential of Nerium oleander L. to lead-zinc tailing: application of phytoremediation

Lead-zinc tailings are complex heavy metal solid wastes produced in the mining process. In this study, two kinds of organic-inorganic mixed improvers mushroom residue + calcium carbonate (M + C) and peat soil + calcium carbonate (N + C) were selected. Then, the effect of two improvers and a woody plant, Nerium oleander L., on the combined remediation of lead-zinc tailings was compared, respectively. The results showed that two combined improvers can slightly improve the pH of tailing, significantly increase the activity of phosphatase and catalase, effectively reduce the contents of DTPA-extractable Pb and Zn, and significantly improve the structure of tailing. However, the improvement effect of M + C was better than that of N + C on tailings' physical and chemical properties. Two improvers can reduce the enrichment and the stress degree of Pb and Zn on the N. oleander and increase the accumulation of Pb and Zn while promoting the growth of the N. oleander. The content of Pb and Zn showed the trend of root > stem > leaf under the two improvers, and the content of Zn was basically higher than that of Pb. To sum up, the combination of two modifiers and N. oleander has a good effect on the remediation of lead-zinc tailings, and the remediation effect of M + C was better than N + C.

Biochar and nano-ferric oxide synergistically alleviate cadmium toxicity of muskmelon

Cadmium is toxic to plants. The accumulation of cadmium in edible plants such as muskmelon may affect the safe production of crops and result in human health problem. Thus effective measures are urgently needed for soil remediation. This work aims to investigate the effects of nano-ferric oxide and biochar alone or mixture on muskmelon under cadmium stress. The results of growth and physiological indexes showed that compared with the application of cadmium alone, the composite treatment (biochar and nano-ferric oxide) decreased malondialdehyde content by 59.12% and ascorbate peroxidase activity increased by 276.6%. Their addition can increase the stress resistance of plants. The results of soil analysis and cadmium content determination in plants showed that the composite treatment was beneficial to reduce the cadmium content in various parts of muskmelon. In the presence of high concentration of cadmium, the Target Hazard Quotient value of peel and flesh of muskmelon in the composite treatment was less than 1, which means the edible risk was greatly reduced. Furthermore, the addition of composite treatment increased the content of effective components; the contents of polyphenols, flavonoids, and saponins in the flesh of the compound treatment were increased by 99.73%, 143.07%, and 18.78% compared with the cadmium treatment. The results provide a technical reference for the further application of biochar combined with nano-ferric oxide in the field of soil heavy metal remediation, and provide a theoretical basis for further research on reducing the toxicity of cadmium to plants and improving the edible quality of crops.

Physiological and biochemical response of P. fortunei to Mn exposure

Fast-growing woody plants with metal tolerance are considered as potential candidates for phytoremediation. P. fortunei is widely distributed in China. Herein, the Mn tolerance ability and physiological and biochemical response of P. fortunei to Mn were explored in this study. Results showed that a low concentration of Mn exposure was favorable for the growth of P. fortunei, while it was inhibited in high Mn exposure. P. fortunei showed high tolerance to Mn (10 mmol/L). The microstructure of P. fortunei organs revealed that the Mn tolerance of P. fortunei was related to the compartmentalization of the cell wall. The subcellular distribution of Mn in P. fortunei showed that Mn was mainly stored in the cell wall fraction (39%-90%). Under Mn exposure, the proportion of pectate and protein-integrated Mn increased by 5%-29% in P. fortunei. The changes of function groups (-CH₃ and -COOH) in P. fortunei might be related to the reduction of Mn toxicity in plant cells in the way of chelation. Additionally, P. fortunei leaves resisted Mn toxicity by increasing the activities of CAT and SOD under low Mn concentration exposure, but it might be destroyed under excessive Mn concentration exposure. P. fortunei might be used as a candidate plant for low concentration Mn tailing restoration.

Seasonal Variations in Bioaccumulation and Translocation of Toxic Heavy Metals in the Dominant Vegetables of East Kolkata Wetlands: a Case Study with Suggestive Ecorestorative Strategies

In recent times, East Kolkata Wetlands (EKW), a designated Ramsar site in the eastern part of megacity Kolkata, has been threatened by toxic heavy metal (HM) pollution. Besides being a natural wetland supporting biodiversity, EKW serves as a significant food basket for the city. For assessing the magnitude of HM pollution in this wetland, the three most cultivated food crops of EKW, namely Lagenaria siceraria (bottle gourd), Abelmoschus esculentus (ladies' fingers), and Zea mays (maize), as well as the ambient soil samples, were collected during premonsoon, monsoon, and postmonsoon for 2 consecutive years (2016 and 2017). Predominant HMs like cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) were analyzed in the roots and edible parts of these plants, as well as in the ambient soil to evaluate the bioaccumulation factor (BF) and translocation factor (TF) of each HM in the three vegetables. It was observed that the HM content in the food crop species followed the order Z. mays > L. siceraria > A. esculentus. HMs accumulated in all three vegetables as per the order Pb > Cd > Cr > Hg. Monsoon seems to be threatening in terms of bioaccumulation and translocation of HMs as both BF and TF were highest in this season irrespective of the plant species. Hence it demands critical monitoring of HM pollution levels in this wetland and subsequent ecorestoration through distinctive plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)-assisted co-cultivation of these food crops with low-metal-accumulating, deep-rooted, high-biomass-yielding, and bioenergy-producing perennial grass species for minimizing HM intake.

Health risk assessment of heavy metal exposure through vegetable consumption around a phosphorus chemical plant in the Kaiyang karst area, southwestern China

The phosphorus chemical industry is an important source of heavy metals in farmland. Vegetables grown on contaminated soil potentially impose adverse effects on human health. In this study, the pollution status and health risks of heavy metals in vegetables around a phosphorus chemical plant in Kaiyang County, Guizhou Province, southwestern China, were assessed, and the low-accumulation vegetables were screened by bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and cluster analysis. Results showed the average concentrations of Hg, As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Mn, Co, and Zn in vegetables were 0.015, 0.728 0.382, 0.227, 0.850, 27.227, 0.525, and 6.438 mg/kg, respectively. The single-factor pollution index showed that Cd was moderately polluted, and Cr, Hg, As, and Pb were slightly polluted. The Nemerow pollution index showed that the overall heavy metal pollution was classified as moderately polluted. The accumulation of heavy metals in different vegetables varied greatly, and chard, crown daisy, chayote, pumpkin, eggplant, white radish, sweet potato, carrot, and potato were selected as the low-accumulator vegetables. The consumption of all vegetables except chayote poses both carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks; among them, the consumption of sweet potato leaves has the highest health risks. The local population needs to adjust plantation structure and change dietary habits, and government should strengthen the management of phosphorus chemical plant pollution.

Heavy Metal Contamination in Leafy Vegetables Grown in Jazan Region of Saudi Arabia: Assessment of Possible Human Health Hazards

The food chain, through vegetable consumption, is considered to be an important route of heavy metal exposure. Therefore, in this study, heavy metal concentrations in leafy vegetables grown in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia were assessed using an ICP-MS. Lettuce, radish, mint, parsley and jarjir (Arugula) were selected for study and subjected to digestion using HCl. The results indicated that the Fe level was highest in all vegetables, while jarjir was the most contaminated vegetable. However, no tested metal exceeded the maximum permissible limits set by the FAO/WHO and European Committee. The possible health hazards associated with the exposure to metal contaminants via vegetable consumption were evaluated by estimating target hazard quotient (THQ) values, and the results revealed that the vegetables grown in close proximity of Jazan city were the most contaminated and those in Darb the least. However, the daily intakes of all the tested metals were well below the corresponding oral reference doses (RfDs), and the THQ values were less than unity, suggesting that the vegetables grown in the studied region were safe and the heavy metal exposure via vegetable consumption was unlikely to cause adverse effects to the local inhabitants of the region.

Effect of montmorillonite biochar composite amendment on thallium bioavailability in contaminated agricultural soils and its mitigated health risk

Little information is available on the effect of clay minerals and biochar composite on the remediation and bioavailability of thallium in agricultural soils. This study thus investigated the influence of montmorillonite biochar composite (Mnt-BC) amendment on the remediation of agricultural soil contaminated artificially by Tl and its potential health risks. Herein, bok choi was cultured to estimate the efficiency of soil Mnt-BC amendments through the bioavailability of Tl of the vegetable. Results showed that Tl bioavailability was significantly reduced in Mnt-BC-amended soils, mainly ascribed to the elevated soil pH and other improved soil properties of high functional groups (-OH, -COOH), negative charges, and exchangeable cations after amendment. Specifically, the highest immobilization efficiency of Tl in soils was observed in 2.5% treated soils with 79.11%, while in plant leaves the highest reduction of Tl was estimated to be 75.1% compared to the control treatment. Hence, the amendment dosage improved the immobilization of Tl in soil and subsequently reduced Tl uptake by the vegetable. Furthermore, from target hazard quotient (THQ) estimation, Mnt-BC amendment can lower the potential health risk while consuming such cultured bok choi in Tl-contaminated soils. Considering the environmental friendliness and high efficiency of Mnt-BC, it could be used as a potential soil amendment to remediate agricultural soils contaminated by Tl.

Comparative assessment of the heavy metal phytoextraction potential of vegetables from agricultural soils: A field experiment

A field study was established to determine the phytoextraction potential of six vegetable species, namely Amaranthus viridis L., Basella alba L., Brassica chinensis var. Parachinensis, Brassica rapa L., Capsicum frutescens L., and Ocimum tenuiflorum L.. These edible plants were selected for their short growth cycles and high biomass production, which are some traits for efficient phytoremediation. Following acid digestion of the soil and vegetable samples using the USEPA 3050B acid digestion method, the extracts were analyzed for Al, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn using ICP-OES. Results in soil samples showed that the concentrations of both beneficial and essential heavy metals, and non-essential heavy metals are below the WHO, USEPA, and CCME soil quality guidelines. Al is one of the highest concentrations found in the soil samples but it tends to accumulate in the root part of all vegetable species compared to the aboveground parts. In general, B. rapa L. accumulated the highest level of Cd (0.4 mg/kg) and Pb (5.71 mg/kg), while B. alba L. accumulated the highest Cr (2.62 mg/kg) in all plant parts. The findings in this study indicated that Co, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn were mostly accumulated in leaves of A. viridis L. (Co, Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn), B. alba L. (Co, Fe and Mn), B. chinensis (Mn and Zn) and O. tenuiflorum L. (Mn), and roots of C. frutescens L. (Co, Cu, Fe and Mn), B. alba L. (Co, Cu and Zn), A. viridis L. and B. chinensis (Cu and Fe) and B. rapa L. (Fe). Cr, Pb and Ni were significantly greater in B. alba L. (Cr) And B. rapa L. (Ni and Pb) roots. MTF >1 was observed in the roots of all species for Co, Cd, Zn, and Ni. BTC values varied between the different vegetable species with A. viridis L. having the greatest heavy metal mobility between its plant parts and the best heavy metal phytoextraction potential among other species. The PCA biplots showed that heavy metals were partitioned differently between various plant parts of the vegetable species and can be explained by the first two components (PC1 and PC2) which were associated with the root and/or leaf parts for most vegetable species.

Deterministic and Probabilistic Health Risk Assessment of Toxic Metals in the Daily Diets of Residents in Industrial Regions of Northern Ningxia, China

This study was designed to investigate the toxic metal (aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn)) concentrations in drinking water and different foodstuffs meat (pork, beef, and mutton), cereals (rice, flour, corn, millet), beans (cowpeas, tofu), potatoes (potato, sweet potato), solanaceous fruits (pepper, eggplant, bitter gourd, cucumber), vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, spinach), and fruits (apples, watermelons, pears, grapes)) and then estimate the potential health risks of toxic metal consumption to local residents in industrial regions of northern Ningxia, China. As in drinking water, Cr in meat, Pb in cereals, Pb in beans, As and Pb in potatoes, Pb in solanaceous fruits, Cr and Ni in vegetables, and Ni and Pb in fruits were the most contaminated heavy metals in the corresponding food with over-standard rates of 16.7%, 12.5%, 5.1%, 60%, 50%, 50%, 38.2%, 44.4%, 44.4%, 31.8%, and 31.8%, respectively.The results of the deterministic assessment of health risks showed that the total noncarcinogenic risk value of dietary intake of toxic metals by the local population was 5.6106, indicating that toxic metals pose a high noncarcinogenic risk. The order of the non-carcinogenic risk is HI_cereal (1.2104) > HI_{solanaceous fruit} (0.9134) > HI_Vegetables (0.8726) > HI_Fruit (0.8170) > HI_Meat (0.7269) > HI_{Drinking water} (0.6139) > HI_Beans (0.2991) > HI_Potatoes (0.1573). The total carcinogenic health risk from exposure to toxic metals through dietary intake was 9.98 × 10^-4, indicating that the total cancer risk value of residents is beyond the acceptable range (10^-4) under the current daily dietary exposure and implies a high risk of cancer. The order of the carcinogenic risk is R_{Drinking water} (2.34 × 10^-4) > R_Meat (2.11 × 10^-4) > R_{solanaceous fruit} (1.89 × 10^-4) > R_Fruit (1.88 × 10^-4) > R_cereal (1.36 × 10^-4) > R_Potatoes (2.44 × 10^-5) > R_Vegetables (1.51 × 10^-5) > R_Beans (0). The probabilistic assessment results showed that 98.83% of the population is exposed to severe noncarcinogenic risk and 87.02% is exposed to unacceptable carcinogenic risk. The sensitivity analysis showed that drinking water, local cereals, vegetables, and fruits were the major contributors to health risks. Our results indicated that the daily dietary exposure of residents in industrial regions of northern Ningxia poses a serious threat to human health, and it is suggested that relevant departments should strengthen monitoring and control of the current situation of toxic metal pollution in the environment and continue to pay attention and take measures to reduce the exposure of toxic metals in the diets of residents in this area.

Assessment of Potentially Toxic Element Concentrations in Soil And Vegetables and Impact on Human Health Through TF, EDI, and HRI Indicators: Case Study Anadrinia Region (Kosovo)

Vegetable cultivation areas in the Anadrinia region may have higher than background concentrations of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) from contaminated sources including anthropogenic activity and lithologic composition. The purpose of the present study was to assess PTEs concentrations in soil and vegetables and their impact on human health. In this study, 50 soils and 5 vegetables were sampled from the studied area. PTEs (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) were measured by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) after digestion in microwave system. PTEs in soil and vegetables were assessed and compared to international data (Dutch List and WHO/FAO 2011), and their toxicological risk was estimated using transfer factor (TF), estimated daily intake (EDI), and hazard quotients (HQ). The average values of As, Cd, Co, Fe, and Mn in soil were 44.96, 0.324, 16.34, 13,172, and 765.1 mg/kg, and Cr, Ni, and Pb in vegetables were 21.02, 17.11, and 4.982 mg/kg. TF values were less than 1, suggesting low bioaccumulation. EDI values of Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn were 6.29, 6.23, 2.09, and 16.6 mg/kg, higher than international guidelines. HQ values of Pb, Ni, and Cu were 6.22, 3.66, and 1.72, higher than maximum tolerable value 1 indicating significant health risk. Some of the analyzed elements in soil and vegetable exceeded permissible limits to Dutch List and WHO/FAO 2011, respectively. From a health point of view, this study revealed vegetable contamination, recommends periodic monitoring.

Towards an integrated health risk assessment framework of soil heavy metals pollution: Theoretical basis, conceptual model, and perspectives

The health risk of soil heavy metals pollution has been gaining increasing public concern. However, many countries have not set their own health risk assessment (HRA) framework and most of the existing studies directly referred to the USEPA risk assessment model and parameters. For those countries that do not propose an original HRA framework, the experience of developed countries is crucial for advancing their own HRA system. This study systematically reviewed the development of HRA framework in some representative developed countries. The theoretical basis, conceptual model, progress, and challenges of HRA researches concerning soil heavy metals pollution were summarized. By recalling and comparing the health risk-related laws and guidance in the USA, UK, and Japan, results showed that the construction of HRA framework varied between these countries, but HRA has become the main method for deriving their soil environmental criteria. We further summarized the evaluation scales, land use types, exposure pathways, and sensitive receptors of HRA studies, and highlighted the key parameters affecting health risk outputs. There has been a shift toward the incorporation of probabilistic modeling, metals bioavailability, and sources emission characteristics into recent HRA studies. Nonetheless, challenges remained on how to minimize the uncertainty of generating probability distribution and detecting metal bioavailability. To facilitate the development of HRA framework, it was advised that developing countries should strengthen the theoretical researches of health risk and localization researches of exposure factors. Future directions are suggested to tend to: 1) promote sensitive analysis to quantify the impact of distribution assumptions on health risk outputs, 2) derive reasonable risk threshold and consistent evaluation protocol for bioavailability-based health risk assessment method, and 3) strive to explore the combined health effect of exposure to heavy metals in soil through source-media-receptor integrated studies.

Evaluation of potential toxic heavy metal contamination in soil, fly ash, vegetables and grain crops along with associated ecological and health risk assessment of nearby inhabitants of a thermal power station in Jharkhand (India)

The present study aimed to evaluate the potential toxic heavy metal (PTHM) concentrations and associated ecological and health risk of nearby inhabitants (child and adult populations) of the Bokaro thermal power station (BTPS), Jharkhand, India. The fly ash containing PTHMs is released from the thermal power plant and contaminates the soil of the nearby agricultural area, roadside area and residential area. Furthermore, PTHMs cause ecological risk as well as carcinogenic health effects in adults. Inhabitants are exposed to PTHMs through exposure pathways (for instance, direct ingestion, dermal contact and air inhalation), and PTHMs were examined in this study by calculating the estimated daily intake (EDI). The contamination factor (C_f) of Cd exceeded the threshold value throughout the study area, whereas the C_f of Hg was observed higher only in roadside soil (RSS). The geoaccumulation index (I_geo) of Cd was higher in the top soil of agricultural soil (AS) (7.39) and RSS (9.38). The level of PTHMs was monitored slightly higher in the topsoil of RSS. The ecological risk index (Eri) was detected to be the highest in RSS (1628.9). The permissible limit of Cd (0.05 mg kg^-1) and Pb (0.1 mg kg^-1) for all sampled vegetables and grain crops was surpassed. The transfer factor (TF) of the studied vegetables and grain crops was in the order of Cd > Cr > Pb > Hg > As. The results of the present study concluded that the hazard quotient (HQ) values for all PTHMs analysed in soil throughout the study area were < 1, which indicates that the child population was within the safe limit. However, the adult population was at a high risk of non-carcinogenic health effects due to increased permissible limits of Cd, Pb and Cr in vegetables and grain crops whereas the target carcinogenic risk (TCR) of Pb and Cr was higher and indicated that there may be a health risk of cancer in adults.

Health Risk of Heavy Metals Related to Consumption of Vegetables in Areas of Industrial Impact in the Republic of Kazakhstan-Case Study for Oskemen

Among various heavy metal sources the metallurgic industry is the most threatening because emitted metals presented are the chemical forms in which metals are found in soil are more bioavailable and thus very easily are introduced into the environment and spread in both soils and plants. In this study such a situation is presented and the potential negative effect of emitted metals on soil and vegetables is estimated. Therefore, the following indicators were used: bioconcentration factors calculated for the total amount of metals (BCF) as well as daily intake of metal (DIM) and health risk index (HRI). Analyzed soils and vegetables originated from allotment gardens located at different distances from local industrial plants. The greatest amounts of metals in investigated materials (soils and plants) were found for the industrial zone and the lowest for samples representing the suburban zone. Among the analyzed metals Zn showed the highest (223.94−2645.13 mg·kg−1 for soils and 9.14−49.28 mg·kg−1 for plants), and Cd the lowest levels (1.77−15.2 mg·kg−1 for soils and 0.05−0.46 mg·kg−1 for plants). Regardless of the metal, the lowest BCF values were calculated for plants from the industrial zone and the highest from the urban site. Generally, BCF values calculated for vegetables were low and comparable for carrots, tomatoes, and cabbage. BCF values obtained for beetroots were higher in comparison to other vegetables. Regardless of plants, DIM values for Cd and Pb were low and comparable. DIM values for Cu and Zn were higher, but simultaneously strongly differentiated depending on the analyzed vegetables. A similar tendency was found in the case of HRI. The highest values were recorded for Cu and Zn in tomatoes. Regardless of the individual metals, the calculated values for DIM and HRI indices increased in the following sequence: beetroot < cabbage < carrot < tomato. The Zn and Cu contents in the studied types of vegetables do not exceed the maximum permissible levels recommended by WHO/FAO. In contrast, Pb concentrations were higher than the imposed standards in all the analyzed vegetable samples. On the basis of obtained DIM and HRI indices, consumption of vegetables cultivated in industrial areas should be restricted due to health risks related to heavy metals contained in plants.

Root Vegetables-Composition, Health Effects, and Contaminants

Root vegetables are known all over the world, but they are being less and less consumed by individuals. The main purpose of this article was to summarize the benefits, health effects, and threats associated with the consumption of carrot, celery, parsley, beetroot, radish, turnip, and horseradish. They are characterized by high nutritional value due to their richness in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. One of their most important features is their high content of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, phenols, flavonoids, and vitamin C. These compounds are responsible for antioxidant potential. Comparison of their antioxidant effects is difficult due to the lack of standardization among methods used for their assessment. Therefore, there is a need for a reference method that would allow for correct interpretation. Moreover, root vegetables are characterized by several health-promoting effects, including the regulation of metabolic parameters (glucose level, lipid profile, and blood pressure), antioxidant potential, prebiotic function, and anti-cancer properties. However, due to the type of cultivation, root vegetables are vulnerable to contaminants from the soil, such as toxic metals (lead and cadmium), pesticides, pharmaceutical residues, microplastics, and nitrates. Regardless, the low levels of toxic substances present in root vegetables do not pose health risks to the average consumer.

Zinc Biofortification through Basal Zinc Supply Reduces Grain Cadmium in Mung Beans: Metal Partitioning and Health Risks Assessment

Grain zinc (Zn) biofortification with less cadmium (Cd) accumulation is of paramount importance from human health and environmental point of view. A pot experiment was carried out to determine the influence of Zn and Cd on their accumulations in Mung bean tissues (Vigna radiata) in two contrast soil types (Dermosol and Tenosol). The soil types with added Zn and Cd exerted a significant effect on translocation and accumulation of metals in different tissues. The accumulation of Zn and Cd was higher for Tenosol than that for Dermosol. At control, the concentration of Cd followed a pattern, e.g., root > stem > petiole > pod > leaflet > grain for both soils. A basal Zn supply (5 mg kg−1) increased the grain Zn concentration to a significant amount (up to 67%). It also reduced Cd accumulation in tissues, including grains (up to 34%). No non-carcinogenic effect was observed for either the children or the adults as the EDI and PTDI values were below the safety limit; however, the ILCR values exceeded the safety limit, indicating the possibility of some carcinogenic effects. Added Zn helped to reduce the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks on humans.

Major chemical carcinogens and health exposure risks in some therapeutic herbal plants in Nigeria

People of all ages and genders utilize herbal medicine to treat varieties of problems all around the world. The accumulation of Cd and Cr in therapeutic herbs (Adansonia digitata, Psidium guajava, and Carica papaya) can lead to a variety of health complications. These leaf extracts are used to treat varieties of ailments, including cancer, in the northern Nigerian states of Borno, Jigawa, and Kano. The researchers employed high-resolution continuous source atomic absorption spectrometry. The statistical parameters such as mean, range, minimum and maximum were computed along with one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to assess activity concentrations of Major Chemical Carcinogens (MCCs) in the herb extracts from the three states. The result demonstrated substantial statistical variation in the concentration of Chromium between groups with C. papaya (F = 190.683, p = 0.000), P. guajava (F = 5.698, p = 0.006), A. digitata (F = 243.154, p = 0.000). The post hoc test revealed that the C. papaya and A. digitata observed concentrations were statistically significant across the three states (p = 0.000). It was observed that there is no statistically significant difference between concentrations of the extracts between Kano and Borno states for P. guajava (p = 0.686). For Cd, the one-way ANOVA showed significant statistically variation in the concentration between groups with C. papaya (F = 77.393, p = 0.000), P. guajava (F = 4.496, p = 0.017), A. digitata (F = 69.042, p = 0.000). The post hoc test with multiple comparisons revealed that the activity concentration of all extracts was statistically significant across the three states (p<0.05). The target risk quotient (THQ) for Cd was more than unity in A. digitata and C. papaya, except for P. guajava from Borno State. The probable cancer risk was observed for consumption of plant extracts as a result of Cr and Cd.

Arsenic contribution of poultry manure towards soils and food plants contamination and associated cancer risk in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Exposure to high level of arsenic (As) through the ingestion of contaminated soil, dust and food plants can pose health risk to humans. This study investigates the total arsenic (As), arsenobetaine (AsB), monomethylarsenate (MMA), dimethylarsenate (DMA), arsenite (As³⁺) and arsenate (As⁵⁺) concentrations in poultry feed, manure, agricultural soils and food plants collected from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. The total mean As concentrations in the edible parts of food plants ranged from 0.096 mg kg^-1 to 1.25 mg kg^-1 with percentile (P) values (P25-0.039, P50-0.0765, P75-0.165 1 mg kg^-1 to P25-0.95, P50-1.23, P75-1.6 1 mg kg^-1) and exceeded the food safety limit (0.1 mg kg^-1) of Food & Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) in all plant species except Pisum sativum (pea) and Mentha arvensis (mint). The risk to human health was assessed through the average daily intake (ADI), hazards quotient (HQ), health risk index (HRI) and lifetime cancer risk (LTCR). The highest average daily intake of As via the ingestion of Malva neglecta (mallow, a leafy plant) was observed for adults and children. The ADI for adults and children (2.36 × 10^-4 mg kg^-1 day^-1 and 6.33 × 10^-4 mg kg^-1 day^-1) was about 13% and 5%, respectively, of the Bench Mark Dose Limit (BMDL_0.5) of 3.00 × 10^-3 mg kg^-1 day^-1 set by WHO. The HRI was 3 times more in the children (2.1) than the adults (0.79), posing non-cancer health risks (health risk index > 1) for children. The LTCR values were slightly higher (1.53 × 10^-4) relative to USEPA and WHO limits (1 × 10^-6 to 1 × 10^-4) for children whereas a minimal cancer risk was observed for adults via consumption of selected food plants. The results showed that poultry manure can contaminate food plants that may lead to cancer and non-cancer risks in agricultural areas, Pakistan. Thus, it is important to minimize As concentration in poultry feed to safeguard human health and environment from adverse effects.