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Toxics
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Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II
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Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II

A special issue of Toxics (ISSN 2305-6304). This special issue belongs to the section "Emerging Contaminants".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 28 February 2025 | Viewed by 10089

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Ilaria Guagliardi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Institute for Agricultural and Forest Systems in the Mediterranean, National Research Council of Italy (CNR-ISAFOM), Via Cavour, 4-6, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy
Interests: environmental geochemistry; soil; pollution; potentially toxic elements; radionuclides; geostatistical analysis
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Pollution by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) is becoming a serious and widespread issue in all environmental matrices because of the accelerated population growth rate, rapid industrialization and urbanization and other changes, which have occurred in most parts of the world in the last few decades. The increasingly worrying concern about the presence of PTEs in the environment has attracted considerable attention due to their potential impacts on ecosystem functioning and on public health because of their persistence and biotoxicity. PTEs can in fact be transferred into the human body as a consequence of dermal contact, inhalation and ingestion through the food chain and drinking water. Unfortunately, PTEs are ubiquitous in all environmental compartments, and they have been widely detected worldwide. In this context, environmental geochemistry and related subjects are elected matters to investigate, characterise and reveal the patterns of inorganic elements together with geostatistical computations that are used to identify source patterns of different pollutants related to underlying geological features and/or anthropogenic activities.

The present Special Issue aims to collect and compare case studies worldwide on the behaviour, transport, fate and ecotoxicological state of PTEs in environmental matrices in both urban and suburban settings.

The topics of interest, on which authors are invited and welcome to submit original research papers, reviews and short communications, include but are not limited to the following keywords: potentially toxic elements (PTEs); environmental geochemistry; soil, sediment, water, air pollution; geogenic and anthropogenic pollutant input; bioavailability; PTE mapping; spatial data analysis.

I look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Ilaria Guagliardi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Toxics is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • potentially toxic elements (PTEs)
  • environmental geochemistry
  • soil, sediment, water, air pollution
  • geogenic and anthropogenic pollutant input
  • bioavailability
  • PTE mapping
  • spatial data analysis

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

15 pages, 1479 KiB  
Article
Consequences of Volcanic Ash on Antioxidants, Nutrient Composition, Heavy Metal Accumulation, and Secondary Metabolites in Key Crops of Cotopaxi Province, Ecuador
by Raluca A. Mihai, Katherine Elizabeth Rodríguez Valencia, Nina G. Sivizaca Flores, Vivanco Gonzaga Ramiro Fernando, Cubi Isuaste Nelson Santiago and Rodica D. Catana
Toxics 2025, 13(2), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13020075 - 22 Jan 2025
Viewed by 637
Abstract
This study investigates the consequences of volcanic ash on the antioxidant properties, nutrient composition, heavy metal levels, and secondary metabolites in Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean) and Zea mays L. (yellow corn), two crucial crops in Ecuador. The objective is to determine how [...] Read more.
This study investigates the consequences of volcanic ash on the antioxidant properties, nutrient composition, heavy metal levels, and secondary metabolites in Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean) and Zea mays L. (yellow corn), two crucial crops in Ecuador. The objective is to determine how volcanic ash exposure affects these crops, focusing on antioxidant properties and potential heavy metal accumulation. Field experiments were conducted in Cotopaxi Province, where both crops were cultivated under varying volcanic ash conditions. Secondary metabolites, particularly total phenols and flavonoids, were quantified using spectrophotometric methods, while heavy metal content was assessed via atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results showed a notable increase in the synthesis of secondary metabolites, especially phenols and flavonoids, in crops exposed to volcanic ash, enhancing their antioxidant capacity. Importantly, no significant heavy metal accumulation was detected, indicating that the benefits of volcanic ash application can be harnessed without associated toxicity risks. This research highlights the potential of volcanic ash to boost beneficial metabolites in yellow corn and common bean, advocating for careful agricultural practices in volcanic regions to optimize health benefits while mitigating toxicity risks. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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17 pages, 1357 KiB  
Article
Trace Element Speciation and Nutrient Distribution in Boerhavia elegans: Evaluation and Toxic Metal Concentration Across Plant Tissues
by Tahreer M. Al-Raddadi, Lateefa A. Al-Khateeb, Mohammad W. Sadaka and Saleh O. Bahaffi
Toxics 2025, 13(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics13010014 - 26 Dec 2024
Viewed by 557
Abstract
This study investigated the elemental composition of Boerhavia elegans, addressing the gap in comprehensive trace element profiling of this medicinal plant. The research aimed to determine the distribution of macronutrients, micronutrients, and beneficial and potentially toxic elements across different plant parts (seeds, [...] Read more.
This study investigated the elemental composition of Boerhavia elegans, addressing the gap in comprehensive trace element profiling of this medicinal plant. The research aimed to determine the distribution of macronutrients, micronutrients, and beneficial and potentially toxic elements across different plant parts (seeds, leaves, stems, and roots). Using ICP-OES analysis, two digestion methods were employed to capture both complex and labile elements. The study revealed distinct elemental distribution patterns, with iron and nickel concentrating in stems, manganese and zinc in leaves, and copper in roots. Magnesium emerged as the most abundant macronutrient, particularly in leaves. Importantly, all detected toxic elements (arsenic, chromium, lead, and cadmium) were below WHO safety limits. These findings provide crucial insights into the nutritional and safety profile of B. elegans, potentially informing its use in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential as a source of essential elements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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12 pages, 1506 KiB  
Article
Lead Concentrations in Tissues of Pigeons (Columba livia) in the Urban Area of Comarca Lagunera, Mexico
by Andrea Ocampo-Lopez, Cristo Omar Puente-Valenzuela, Homero Sánchez-Galván, Ana Alejandra Valenzuela-García, Josué Raymundo Estrada-Arellano, Ramón Alfredo Delgado-González, Jorge Alejandro Aguirre-Joya, Cristian Torres-León, Alejandra Ocampo-Lopez and David Ramiro Aguillón-Gutiérrez
Toxics 2024, 12(11), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12110830 - 19 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1156
Abstract
The Comarca Lagunera is one of Mexico’s most important productive areas. Its main economic activities are livestock, agriculture, and the processing industry. A wide variety of industries emit wastes that are considered highly toxic environmental pollutants, which have strong negative impacts on public [...] Read more.
The Comarca Lagunera is one of Mexico’s most important productive areas. Its main economic activities are livestock, agriculture, and the processing industry. A wide variety of industries emit wastes that are considered highly toxic environmental pollutants, which have strong negative impacts on public health. The objective of this work was to determine the lead concentrations present in tissues of pigeons (Columba livia) belonging to the urban area of the Comarca Lagunera, Mexico. Specimens were collected from the localities that comprise the region and the tissue extracted; the organs were dried, calcined, and diluted in an acidic HCl solution. Lead concentrations were obtained by atomic absorption spectrometry using the graphite furnace technique. The results demonstrate the presence of lead in all the tissues analyzed, with maximum concentrations of 191.14 mg/kg and minimum concentrations of 0.86 mg/kg, the area with the highest average concentration being Torreón, Coahuila (p = 0.030). The organ with the highest concentration was the bone (p = 0.000). Evidence of lead poisoning is presented in Columba livia tissues in the Comarca Lagunera, thus demonstrating the presence of this contaminant and the ability of these pigeons to function as bioindicators of environmental contamination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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22 pages, 5295 KiB  
Article
An Investigation into the Viability of Portable Proximal Sensor X-Ray Fluorescence Data for Assessing Heavy Metal Contamination in Urban Soils: A Case Study in Changchun, China
by Xiaoxiao Zou, Jilong Lu, Xinyun Zhao, Qiaoqiao Wei, Zhiyi Gou, Yaru Hou and Yawen Lai
Toxics 2024, 12(11), 798; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics12110798 - 31 Oct 2024
Viewed by 1115
Abstract
In order to validate the applicability of pXRF for rapid in situ detection of heavy metals in urban soils and to accurately obtain an assessment of soil quality in Changchun, a city in northeast China, 164 soil samples from within the main urban [...] Read more.
In order to validate the applicability of pXRF for rapid in situ detection of heavy metals in urban soils and to accurately obtain an assessment of soil quality in Changchun, a city in northeast China, 164 soil samples from within the main urban area of Changchun were collected for pXRF analysis. The main stable elements Si and Ti were used to establish a matrix effect correction model, and the values of Cr (64.2 mg⋅kg−1), Cu (43.8 mg⋅kg−1), Zn (96.2 mg⋅kg−1), As (20.9 mg⋅kg−1), and Pb (57.4 mg⋅kg−1) were predicted. The empirical findings indicate that the quality of soil data from the pXRF was improved to different degrees under the correction model, and it became a relatively reliable dataset; the order of improvement was Cu > Pb > Cr > Zn > As. A comprehensive assessment indicated that Changchun City is primarily contaminated by the heavy metals As, Pb, and Cu, with the main sources being automobile manufacturing and pharmaceutical chemical production. These findings align with previous studies and have produced favorable outcomes in practical applications. This rapid, non-destructive and economical detection method is very applicable and economical for the sustainable monitoring and control of heavy metals in large cities. This study provides a basis for rapid large-scale prediction of urban soil safety and protection of local human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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17 pages, 2538 KiB  
Article
Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Indoor Household Dust in Urban and Rural Areas of Chiang Mai and Lamphun Provinces, Thailand
by Kawinwut Somsunun, Tippawan Prapamontol, Todsabhorn Kuanpan, Teetawat Santijitpakdee, Kanyapak Kohsuwan, Natwasan Jeytawan and Nathaporn Thongjan
Toxics 2023, 11(12), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11121018 - 14 Dec 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2530
Abstract
Indoor exposure to heavy metals poses human health risks worldwide, but study reports from Thailand are still limited, particularly in rural and urban areas. We measured the heavy metals in a hundred indoor household dust samples collected from urban and rural areas in [...] Read more.
Indoor exposure to heavy metals poses human health risks worldwide, but study reports from Thailand are still limited, particularly in rural and urban areas. We measured the heavy metals in a hundred indoor household dust samples collected from urban and rural areas in Chiang Mai and Lamphun provinces and found a significantly higher concentration of As in rural areas and Cd in urban areas with industrial activities. The source identification of the heavy metals showed significant enrichment from traffic emissions, paint, smoking, and mixed sources with natural soil. From health risk assessment models, children were more vulnerable to noncarcinogenic risks (HI = 1.45), primarily via ingestion (HQ = 1.39). Lifetime cancer risks (LCRs) due to heavy metal exposure were found in adults (LCR = 5.31 × 10−4) and children (LCR = 9.05 × 10−4). The cancer risks from As were higher in rural areas via ingestion, while Cr and Ni were higher in urban areas via inhalation and ingestion, respectively. This study estimated that approximately 5 out of 10,000 adults and 9 out of 10,000 children among the population may develop cancer in their lifetime from exposure to indoor heavy metals in this region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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16 pages, 2190 KiB  
Article
Herbicides in Water Sources: Communicating Potential Risks to the Population of Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa
by Innocent Mugudamani, Saheed A. Oke, Thandi Patricia Gumede and Samson Senbore
Toxics 2023, 11(6), 538; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxics11060538 - 16 Jun 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3068
Abstract
Pesticides are an important tool for maintaining and improving the global population’s standard of living. However, their presence in water resources is concerning due to their potential consequences. Twelve water samples from rivers, dams/reservoirs, and treated drinking water were collected from Mangaung Metropolitan [...] Read more.
Pesticides are an important tool for maintaining and improving the global population’s standard of living. However, their presence in water resources is concerning due to their potential consequences. Twelve water samples from rivers, dams/reservoirs, and treated drinking water were collected from Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality in South Africa. The collected samples were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography linked to a QTRAP hybrid triple quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. The ecological and human health risks were assessed by risk quotient and human health risk assessment methods, respectively. Herbicides, such as atrazine, metolachlor, simazine and terbuthylazine, were analysed in water sources. The average concentrations of simazine in rivers (1.82 mg/L), dams/reservoirs (0.12 mg/L), and treated drinking water (0.03 mg/L) were remarkable among all four herbicides detected. Simazine, atrazine, and terbuthylazine posed high ecological risks for both acute and chronic toxicity in all water sources. Moreover, simazine is the only contaminant in the river water that poses a medium carcinogenic risk to adult. It can be concluded that the level of herbicide detected in water sources may affect aquatic life and human beings negatively. This study may aid in the development of pesticide pollution management and risk reduction strategies within the municipality. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Potentially Toxic Elements Pollution in Urban and Suburban Environments II)
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