Article
Food Science & Technology
Ane del Rio-Lavin, Jan Weber, Joachim Molkentin, Elisa Jimenez, Iraide Artetxe-Arrate, Miguel Angel Pardo
Summary: Determining the geographic origin of farmed mussels is important for regulators and fishing industries to prevent fraud and ensure food safety. This study used stable isotope ratio analysis and trace element fingerprinting to trace the origin of mussels harvested from different regions. The results showed significant differences in the chemical signatures of mussels from different locations, and a classification method correctly assigned 97% of individuals to their harvest location. This method has potential applications in seafood traceability and food safety.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Matteo Perini, Silvia Pianezze, Katia Guardini, Letizia Allari, Roberto Larcher
Summary: A technique based on delta C-13 isotopic analysis of grape musts' major sugars by LC-IRMS was proposed to detect the fraudulent addition of exogenous glucose and fructose from C4 plants and characterize their geographical origins. The analysis of authentic samples from different regions in Italy revealed a significant correlation between the delta C-13 values of glucose and fructose and their geographical locations.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Micha Horacek, Nives Ogrinc, Dana Alina Magdas, Daniel Wunderlin, Sanja Sucur, Vesna Maras, Ana Misurovic, Reinhard Eder, Franc Cus, Stefan Wyhlidal, Wolfgang Papesch
Summary: This study compared the stable isotope composition of oxygen and carbon of wines from four Central and Southeastern European countries and from Argentina. Similar trends were observed for wines from Austria, Slovenia, and Romania, while Montenegrin and Argentinean samples showed different results. The speculation is that weather development is similar for the first three countries due to their geographical proximity, while Montenegro and Argentina are influenced by different factors.
FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Daniele Ziegler, Mery Malandrino, Claudia Barolo, Gianpiero Adami, Milena Sacco, Francesco Pitasi, Ornella Abollino, Agnese Giacomino
Summary: This study evaluated the contribution of a municipal solid waste incinerator to PM10 concentration and chemical composition in Turin, confirming that newly installed incinerators have a lower impact on atmospheric PM10 composition. Direct incinerator emissions were found to influence the concentrations of several heavy metal elements significantly.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Linards Klavins, Inessa Maaga, Maris Bertins, Anne Linn Hykkerud, Katja Karppinen, Ceslovas Bobinas, Heikki M. Salo, Nga Nguyen, Henriikka Salminen, Karina Stankevica, Maris Klavins
Summary: This study analyzed the elemental and isotopic composition of bilberries from Northern Europe and commercially available blueberry samples worldwide, showing detectable differences in element values in bilberries and potential use of isotope ratios for authenticity testing of blueberries. Pollution was not detected in any of the samples, indicating the impact of different growth conditions and geochemical differences on bilberry composition.
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Roisin O. ' Sullivan, Raquel Cama-Moncunill, Michael Salter-Townshend, Olaf Schmidt, Frank J. Monahan
Summary: Scientifically supporting geographic origin claims on food labels enhances consumer trust. Stable isotope ratio analysis (SIRA) verifies the origin of food products by examining naturally occurring differences in isotopic compositions. This study conducted SIRA on casein from butter, cheese, and milk powder, and successfully predicted the region of origin using machine learning models based on isotopic values.
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Emma J. Watts, Thomas M. Gernon, Rex N. Taylor, Derek Keir, Carolina Pagli
Summary: This study investigates the evolution of magma generation during the transition from continental rifting to oceanic spreading by studying the Erta-Ale volcanic segment in the Danakil Depression of Afar, Ethiopia. The results show that the Afar plume is the dominant mantle component in the volcanic rocks, but the characteristics of the melt and storage conditions beneath the EAVS exhibit variability likely controlled by a dynamic interplay between rifting and mantle processes.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Kristin Recklies, Cathleen Peukert, Isabelle Koelling-Speer, Karl Speer
Summary: Honeydew honey, known for its higher antibacterial and antioxidant properties, can be differentiated from blossom honeys based on electrical conductivity. However, criteria for distinguishing between different types of honeydew honeys, such as spruce, fir, and pine, were not established. By analyzing the electrical conductivity, phenolic, and sugar profiles, markers like protocatechuic acid, oligosaccharides, and specific sugar compounds were identified for the classification of authentic coniferous honeydew honeys. Further analysis of carbohydrates using high-performance liquid chromatography allowed for a correct classification of 96.75% of the honey samples based on sugar marker compounds.
JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY
(2021)
Article
Geology
Hongsheng Xu, Feng Bai
Summary: In this study, the genetic mechanism and source characteristics of the Tieli nephrite deposit in Northeast China were evaluated through in situ geochemical analysis of apatite. The findings suggest that the apatite in the deposit is of magmatic origin and may be related to the subduction of the Pacific Plate.
ORE GEOLOGY REVIEWS
(2022)
Review
Food Science & Technology
Shanshan Zhao, Haijin Liu, Mengjie Qie, Jiukai Zhang, Liqin Tan, Yan Zhao
Summary: Stable isotope abundance, as a natural fingerprint of food growing environment, has attracted great attention in tracing and adulterating analysis of animal products. In recent years, the combination of stable isotope ratio analysis and other methods has become a promising approach for ensuring the authenticity and traceability of animal products.
FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
George P. Danezis, Constantinos A. Georgiou
Summary: This study presents the application of elemental metabolomics in determining geographical origin and the process of elemental transportation to food. The study provides guidelines and pitfalls and highlights the importance of studying ultra trace elements and isotope ratios of heavy elements. High resolution inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry is expected to be important in the future. Furthermore, the study indicates the complexity of the link between soil-plants-animal products and the need to consider food processing steps, seasonality, climate, pollution, contact materials, and organism's age in future research.
CURRENT OPINION IN FOOD SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Geology
Allan Wilson, Robert Bolhar
Summary: The only known natural samples of high-pressure mantle constituents are mineral inclusions in diamonds, and their origin and formation have been a subject of debate. By analyzing trace elements in olivine crystals from South Africa, researchers have found evidence suggesting that these crystals formed in the deep upper mantle and potentially in the mantle transition zone. These findings provide insights into Earth's early mantle evolution and the formation of ancient continental and oceanic crust.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Micha Horacek
Summary: The geographic origin of salt is considered unimportant for its quality, but certain brands, especially sea salt, are sold at higher prices. Therefore, it is necessary to control the declared geographic origin of salt. Delta S-34 analysis and element concentration analysis were conducted. The results showed similar values for sea salt samples, while slight differences were found in Mediterranean salt samples. Rock salt samples showed varying values depending on formation time and origin. Terrestrial salt samples differed significantly from marine ones in elemental patterns, and differences within marine samples exist as well.
Review
Chemistry, Applied
Qian Wang, Haijin Liu, Yang Bai, Yan Zhao, Jun Guo, Ailiang Chen, Shuming Yang, Shanshan Zhao, Liqin Tan
Summary: This article discusses the principles, progress, comparison, and analysis of five food traceability technologies, and explores their application prospects, advantages, and disadvantages, aiming to promote the use of traceability technology in mutton safety and improve the food traceability system.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Andrea Mara, Sara Deidda, Marco Caredda, Marco Ciulu, Mario Deroma, Emanuele Farinini, Ignazio Floris, Ilaria Langasco, Riccardo Leardi, Maria Pilo, Nadia Spano, Gavino Sanna
Summary: This study measured the concentration of trace and toxic elements in four unifloral honeys from Sardinia, Italy. The results showed that the concentration of analytes was low and toxic elements were present in negligible amounts. The study also found that the elemental signatures of honeys from different plants had geographical differentiation, and proposed a chemometric analysis method for botanical discrimination of honeys.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Max M. Gillings, Kara L. Fry, Anthony L. Morrison, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: The study investigated front yard soil and house dust from 62 residences throughout Broken Hill, Australia, revealing higher concentrations of Cu, Zn, As, and Pb in house dust, while Ti and Mn were higher in outdoor soil. The research demonstrated that the indoor/outdoor concentration ratio of metals increased with distance from mining areas, indicating that spatial shifts play a role in indoor contamination.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Cynthia Faye Isley, Kara L. Fry, Xiaochi Liu, Gabriel Michael Filippelli, Jane A. Entwistle, Adam P. Martin, Melanie Kah, Diana Meza-Figueroa, John T. Shukle, Khadija Jabeen, Abimbola O. Famuyiwa, Liqin Wu, Neda Sharifi-Soltani, Israel N. Y. Doyi, Ariadne Argyraki, Kin Fai Ho, Chenyin Dong, Peggy Gunkel-Grillon, C. Marjorie Aelion, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: This study evaluated the concentrations of trace metals in indoor dust from homes in 35 countries and identified the main sources of these metals along with associated household characteristics. The findings suggest that factors such as home age, peeling paint, and garden access are important considerations for managing potential risks posed by indoor house dust, with chromium concentrations in indoor dust having the greatest health risk impact.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Xiaoteng Zhou, Vladimir Strezov, Yijiao Jiang, Tao Kan, Tim Evans
Summary: This study investigated air pollution levels and air quality index (AQI) values in 368 cities in mainland China from 2015 to 2018. The results showed strong correlations between industrial capacities and air pollution levels. Despite reductions in pollutant concentrations due to regulations, the annual average concentrations still exceeded recommended limits. The study highlights the need to control traffic emissions to further reduce air pollution.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Medicine, General & Internal
Robin Gasiorowski, Miriam K. Forbes, Gabriel Silver, Yordanka Krastev, Brenton Hamdorf, Barry Lewis, Michael Tisbury, Merrole Cole-Sinclair, Bruce P. Lanphear, Roger A. Klein, Nigel Holmes, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: A clinical trial conducted in Australia found that blood or plasma donations by firefighters were associated with a reduction in serum PFAS levels, while observation alone did not have the same effect. These findings are important for evaluating the clinical implications of PFAS exposure.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Neda Sharifi Soltani, Mark Patrick Taylor, Scott Paton Wilson
Summary: This international study examined the prevalence of indoor microplastics in deposited dust in 108 homes from 29 countries. The findings showed that synthetic polymers dominated in both low and high income countries, while natural fibres were more prevalent in medium income countries. Exposure modeling revealed infants to be at the highest risk of MP exposure, and health risk analysis indicated a potential cancer risk associated with exposure to certain polymers. The analysis highlighted socio-economic factors and age as key variables in determining health outcomes related to MPs in household dust.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Tahereh Yazdanparast, Vladimir Strezov, Peter Wieland, Yi-Jen Lai, Dorrit E. Jacob, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: This study examined the sources, pathways, and risks associated with environmental lead in urban gardens, domestic chickens, and eggs. The findings indicate that many inner-city homes may not be suitable for keeping chickens, highlighting the need for further research on the production and consumption of domestic food.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Xiaoteng Zhou, Vladimir Strezov, Tim Evans, Khushbu Salian, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: The quality of iron ores has a significant impact on the formation of harmful pollutants during the steel-making process. This study investigated the effect of different properties of iron ores on the formation of dioxins during sintering. The results showed that the concentration of iron in the ores was positively correlated with PCB 114 formation, while concentrations of aluminum, titanium, and chlorine greatly increased PCDD/F and PCB emissions. Sulfur levels and density were also related to increased emissions, while silicon concentrations played a role in reducing emissions. The study also identified the optimal size range of iron ores to reduce dioxin emissions without affecting product quality.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Carlos Ibanez-Del Rivero, Kara L. Fry, Max M. Gillings, Cynthia F. Barlow, C. Marjorie Aelion, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: Despite concerns about indoor dust exposure risks from trace metals, limited research has been conducted on their sources and their relationship to outdoor soils. This study investigated the concentrations and sources of trace metals (As, Cr, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn) in home-matched indoor dust, garden soil, and road dust samples in Sydney, Australia. The results showed that all trace metals were more elevated indoors than in their corresponding garden soil samples, indicating that indoor sources were more relevant for Cu and Zn, while Pb remained an important source for indoor contamination through garden soil. The study also identified common sources of trace metals in road dust, garden soil, and indoor dust. Furthermore, the study revealed that a significant portion of indoor dust particles originated from outdoor sources, and the isotopic compositions of Pb in soil and indoor dust were moderately correlated, confirming the influence of outdoor contaminants on indoor environments.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Antti T. Mikkonen, Jennifer Martin, Richard N. Upton, Andrew O. Barker, Carolyn M. Brumley, Mark P. Taylor, Lorraine Mackenzie, Michael S. Roberts
Summary: The migration of PFAS onto agricultural properties has resulted in the accumulation of PFAS in livestock. The environmental determinants of PFAS accumulation in livestock from the grazing environment are poorly understood, resulting in limited capacity to manage livestock exposure and subsequent transfer of PFAS through the food chain.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Anthony L. Morrison, Vladimir Strezov, Robert K. Niven, Mark P. Taylor, Scott P. Wilson, Jianlong Wang, David J. Burns, Peter J. C. Murphy
Summary: Aeration of water contaminated with PFASs can effectively separate and concentrate PFAS through adsorptive bubble fractionation. This study investigated the impact of changes in environmental and process parameters on PFAS removal efficiency and found that bubble fractionation can achieve high levels of overall PFAS removal (>95%) across a wide range of saline and temperature conditions. The removal of certain short-chain PFAS species was improved by increased electrolyte concentration and decreased temperature. However, higher temperature slightly reduced the total PFAS removal rate (to 93%). These findings demonstrate the viability of bubble fractionation as a primary step for PFAS removal in contaminated water.
INDUSTRIAL & ENGINEERING CHEMISTRY RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jianlong Wang, Robert K. Niven, Anthony Morrison, Scott P. Wilson, Vladimir Strezov, Mark P. Taylor
Summary: Adsorptive bubble separation techniques, such as foam fractionation, are being used to extract per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from water. However, there is a lack of mathematical models for their removal. This study presents a theoretical framework for the kinetics of PFAS removal using a semi-batch foam fractionation process, considering factors such as adsorption, entrainment, and volatilization. The proposed models provide quantitative tools for process design and optimization of PFAS removal.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mark Patrick Taylor, Max M. Gillings, Kara L. Fry, Cynthia F. Barlow, Peggy Gunkel-Grillion, Romain Gueyte, Margot Camoin
Summary: This study investigated trace element contamination in honey bees in urban areas close to a large nickel smelter in Noumea, New Caledonia. The results showed that the concentration of trace elements, including nickel, cobalt, and chromium, was higher in bees closer to the smelter. The study also suggested that the transfer of trace elements from bees to honey during production is negligible.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Kara L. Fry, Vanessa J. McPherson, Michael R. Gillings, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: This study presents a monitoring approach using European honey bees to assess antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in urban areas. The presence of Class 1 integrons as a universal AMR indicator was investigated, and their prevalence in honey bees and association with water bodies were observed. The biomonitoring approach using honey bees demonstrated its potential in supporting AMR surveillance.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Xiaoteng Zhou, Vladimir Strezov, Tim Evans, Khushbu Salian, Mark Patrick Taylor
Summary: This study investigated the concentrations of PCDDs, PCDFs, and dl-PCBs in sintered products and emitted dust samples. The results showed higher concentrations of PCDDs than PCDFs in sinter, but three out of four test experiments showed higher concentrations of PCDFs than PCDDs in dust samples. The PCB analysis showed that non-ortho PCBs had higher concentrations than mono-ortho PCBs in both solid samples. The study also found differences in PCDD/F profiles and correlation matrix between sinter and dust samples, suggesting different mechanisms of dioxin formation during sintering.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMICAL ENGINEERING
(2023)
