Articles

Risk Assessment of Toxicologically Relevant Metals (TRMs) in Urban Surface Soils and Columba livia Feathers

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Metals of toxicological interest (MTI: cadmium [Cd], chromium [Cr], mercury [Hg], and lead [Pb]) are priority contaminants in urban environments due to their persistence, bioavailability, and potential toxicity to ecosystems and human health. In this study, their presence in urban surface soils was determined using quantitative analytical chemistry techniques, and ecological risk (Er), non-carcinogenic risk (HQ), and carcinogenic risk (CRi) were assessed. Additionally, ecotoxicological risk (RQ) was estimated using Columba livia feathers as a biomonitor.

The results confirmed the presence of all four MTI in the analyzed soils, with low ecological and non-carcinogenic risk values. However, a relevant individual carcinogenic risk associated with Cd was identified, particularly in the child population. In Columba livia feathers, Cd and Hg showed high bioaccumulation, with very high RQ values (>400), indicating cumulative exposure in urban biota.

Overall, these findings suggest that, although soil concentrations do not exceed regulatory thresholds, bioaccumulation processes may increase the risk in living organisms, highlighting the importance of incorporating biomonitors into environmental assessments of urban systems.

The Efforts of Arab and Muslim Scientists in Pharmacy, Practically and Theoretically – Treating Poisons as an Example

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Pharmacy is considered a science and a profession in all human civilizations. Toxic substances are considered health problems that many people face and require prevention and treatment. Arabs and Muslims, in general, have shown interest in pharmacy, and specifically in toxins, both practically and theoretically. This is the focus of this research, which aims to introduce the science of pharmacy, highlight the efforts of Arabs and Muslims in it, especially in combating toxins through prevention, treatment, classification, and definition. The research also aims to introduce some of the works they have written in this field and assess their usefulness, using a descriptive-analytical approach and a historical approach to trace the significant contributions of Arabs and Muslims in pharmacy and toxins over time. The research, with reference to specialized sources in each field, concludes with several key findings, including the significant contribution of Islamic civilization to pharmacy and toxins, benefiting many other nations from these efforts.