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BACKGROUND: Malaria is a major disease burden in Ethiopia. Migration can influence malaria transmission dynamics, with individuals relocating from malaria-free highland regions to malarious lowlands potentially facing elevated risks of contracting malaria. Migrants may find it difficult to protect themselves against malaria and have limited access to diagnosis or treatment. Settlers in gold mining sites are one type of migrant and are often neglected in malaria research yet may have particularly high malaria risk. This study was a malaria prevalence survey among settlers in a new gold mining settlement in the highly malarious Gambella Region, Ethiopia. METHODS: n = 590 people were surveyed for demographic information and their knowledge and practices of malaria. Participants were tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy. Using logistic regressions, the influence of demographic characteristics on malaria infections and bed net access were analysed. A sub-sample of participants was interviewed to comprehend settlement living conditions and healthcare accessibility. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum was 37.5% (CI 32.4-42.3%). Young children were most likely to have malaria, with individuals aged 15-24 having 67% lower odds (aOR: 0.33; CI 0.13-0.86) of infection compared to those aged 1-4 years old. Meanwhile, those age 25-plus had 75% decreased odds of malaria infection (aOR 0.25; CI 0.10-0.65). Individuals with bed nets had ~ 50% decreased odds of testing positive for falciparum malaria than those reporting having no bed net (aOR: 0.47; CI 0.22-0.97). Individuals who relocated from low elevation with high malaria test positivity rate areas were more prone to testing positive for malaria, as were those residing in densely populated households with multiple malaria cases. Conversely, individuals from higher elevations with low malaria test positivity rates, and those living in households with 5-10 occupants and

We propose that the informational environment in which firm–stakeholder interactions are embedded shapes the effect of firm–stakeholder dialogue on a stakeholder's evaluation of a firm. How much stakeholders know about a firm (information availability), what stakeholders know about a firm (information content), and how much they trust the media that informs them (information reliability) vary across countries, firms, and time. We theorize and assess how these three dimensions of the informational environment shape the effects of firm–stakeholder dialogue on the evolution of a stakeholder's evaluation of a firm. We illustrate our arguments with insights from field interviews conducted to understand stakeholders' evaluations of the Rosia Montana gold mine in Romania, and we analyze them using original, manually coded stakeholder-level data that capture 2,454 stakeholders' evaluations of 26 gold-mining operations around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing of mining sector is generally accompanied by socio‐economic and environmental consequences. Most previous work has either analyzed economic, social, or environmental effects without considering all three dimensions of sustainable development at once. Similarly, the perceptions of the populations living near mining companies are not widely considered in these studies. The objective of this paper is to analyze the populations' perception of the effects of industrial gold mining on environment (noise, air pollution, and land degradation), social (prostitution, banditry, and alcoholism), and household income in Burkina Faso. A probit model is used on a sample of 251 households living near four industrial mining sites. The results show that mining activity has contributed to improve the per capita income of the households surrounding certain industrial mining sites. However, it has contributed to a decline in the quality of life of the households due to noise and air pollution and social problems such as banditry. The government must protect mining areas from banditry and support households with local economic infrastructure to avoid a drop in their income after the mines close. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to examine the potential of soil amendment-assisted phytoremediation using ryegrass in reclaiming abandoned gold mine soil in southwestern Ghana, with a specific focus on the soil contamination hazards associated with metals and metalloids. A pot experiment lasting 60 days was carried out to assess the efficacy of soil amendments, such as compost, iron oxide, and poultry manure, in mitigating environmental hazards. Three soil contamination indices (soil contamination = CF, enrichment factor = ER, and pollution load index = PLI) were used to calculate the extent of soil contamination, enrichment, and pollution of the sites with Co, Hg, Ni, Mo, Se, Sb, and Pb. The findings show that Hg made the greatest contribution (with a maximum soil CF of 18.0) to the overall PLI, with a maximum value of 74.4. The sites were averagely and consequently enriched with toxic elements in the decreasing order: Ni (ER = 33.3) > Mo (20.5) > Sb (14.1) > Pb (11.0) > Hg (7.9) > Se (2.1). The bioaccumulation factor (BCF > 1) suggests that ryegrass has the ability to phytostabilize Co, Hg, Mo, and Ni. This means that the plant may store these elements in its roots, potentially decreasing their negative effects on the environment and human health. Ultimately, the addition of combined manure with iron oxides might have augmented the sequestration of these metals in the root. The elements may have accumulated through sorption on manure or Fe surfaces, dissolution from watering the plants in the pot, or mineralization of organic manure. Thus, ryegrass has shown potential for phytostabilisation of Co, Hg, Mo, and Ni when assisted with a combination of manure and iron oxides; and can consequently mitigate the environmental and human health impacts. NOVELTY OF WORK: Gold mining in Ghana has caused significant environmental damage and political unrest. Research on environmentally friendly solutions to land degradation is crucial for restoring degraded lands, preserving ecosystem integrity, restoring livelihoods, and protecting public health in gold mining hotspots. However, previous studies have often overemphasized the use of trees in improving soil quality. Other past studies have merely collected plant species for heavy metal analysis without concrete pots or field experiments. Ryegrass has only been limited to arsenic remediation, and its phytoremediation ability for other toxic elements like Co, Hg, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, and Se has not been investigated. This work reports for the first time the phytostabilisation ability of ryegrass for potentially toxic elements in a Ghanaian context. Consequently, recommendations are made for reclaiming gold-mine-affected sites while at the same time providing evidence for widening the choice of plant species available for restoring mine-derelict lands. Ultimately, the study fills the gap in phytoremediation research within the global scientific community and Ghana in particular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the relationship between the arts and the senses, focusing on dance as a spectator art in the West. It delves into the complexity of how the senses interrelate and how different artistic mediums engage with specially trained kinetic systems. The text also discusses the role of language in analyzing experiences and the impact of mixed media on conventional perceptions of art. Additionally, it touches on the concept of improvisation as a form of creative expression that transcends fixed definitions. [Extracted from the article]

As the key equipment in modern tunnel construction and underground engineering, the technology of cantilever roadheader is also constantly innovating to adapt to more complex and diversified geological conditions. However, due to the uncertainty of geological environment and the limitations of the equipment itself, the cantilever roadheader still faces many challenges in practical application. Based on the actual situation of the mine, the mechanical mining test study of cantilever roadheader was carried out. Firstly, the research on the cuttability of rock mass was carried out, and it was found that the cuttability of the mine from shallow to deep orebody showed a trend of changing from difficult to easy. Based on the rock breaking capacity, equipment pure cutting capacity, mine actual production capacity and equipment cost performance, the equipment selection of cantilever TBM was carried out. Finally, the field industrial test shows that the mechanical driving roadway has the good forming effect and little influence on surrounding rock. The relevant research results can provide useful reference for the practical application of the cantilever roadheader under similar ore body conditions, and promote the technical progress in the field of mechanical mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisanal gold mining can lead to soil contamination with potentially toxic elements (PTEs), necessitating soil quality monitoring due to environmental and human health risks. However, determining PTE levels through acid digestion is time-consuming, generates chemical waste, and requires significant resources. As an alternative, portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) offers a faster, more cost-effective, and sustainable analysis. This study compared total As, Ba, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, Ti, V, and Zn obtained from pXRF with their pseudo-total contents obtained through acid digestion (USEPA method 3051A) in areas influenced by artisanal gold mining in the Eastern Amazon, Brazil. pXRF data and machine learning algorithms were used to predict extractable Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn. Linear regression models were fitted to compare the two methods, and random forest and support vector machine techniques were used to predict extractable contents. The best regression model fits for the pseudo-total PTE contents were those for Cu, Fe, Mn and Pb in agricultural areas (R2 > 0.80); Fe and Mn in gold mining residue (R2 > 0.70); and Ba, Cu and Mn in urban areas (R2 > 0.80). The best models for predicting the extractable PTE contents were those for Cu (R2 = 0.72; RMSE = 2.58 mg dm−3) and Zn (R2 = 0.71; RMSE = 1.44 mg dm−3) in agricultural areas and for Zn (R2 = 0.72; RMSE = 0.43 mg dm−3) in gold mining residue. The results demonstrated that pXRF can characterize and predict PTE contents in mining-impacted areas, offering a sustainable approach to soil quality analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sporotrichosis is a disease that arises from a fungal infection caused by members of the Ascomycete genus Sporothrix. The disease has a unique history in South Africa, due to an association with gold mines, where large numbers of mine workers were infected in the 1930s and 1940s. This was likely driven by hot humid conditions and timber supports used in these mine shafts. Furthermore, the disease is the most common subcutaneous fungal infection amongst the general population in South Africa, and the large number of immunocompromised individuals increases the public health risk in the country. Sporothrix is a genus in the Ophiostomatales, a fungal order primarily associated with environmental habitats. Unsurprisingly, sporotrichosis therefore has a documented history of sapronotic transmission from contaminated plant material. This review provides insights into the understanding of sporotrichosis and Sporothrix species, with a particular emphasis on the South African situation. We highlight knowledge gaps, particularly regarding the ecological factors influencing the occurrence and distribution of these species, which in turn affect the patterns of sporotrichosis. We also emphasise a need for ongoing proactive research and surveillance to prevent future outbreaks of sporotrichosis, an emerging disease with growing health implications worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the article "My life in mining history," Peter Bell, a historian and heritage consultant, shares his journey into becoming a mining historian. His interest in mining history was sparked by a visit to Mount Mulligan, a coal mining town, where he discovered a lack of information about the Mount Mulligan disaster. This led him to research and write a thesis on the topic, opening doors to further opportunities in the field. Bell also discusses his work as a consultant, working on various mining-related projects such as commissioned histories, heritage surveys, and conservation management plans. He emphasizes the challenges of balancing mining activities with heritage conservation, using the example of Ravenswood, a historic gold mining town in Queensland. Bell highlights the importance of communication and collaboration between mining companies, communities, and government bodies in making decisions about the preservation of historic mining sites. Overall, he expresses gratitude for the chance to contribute to the preservation of mining relics and his enjoyment of exploring fascinating places throughout Australia. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the collection and study of Australian mining songs, specifically those related to gold and coal mining. The author notes a lack of documentation on industrial folk songs and conducted field collecting trips to coal mining towns to gather songs and stories. The article discusses the role of songs during strikes and demonstrations, as well as the changing opportunities for collecting songs through online resources. It also examines the themes and perspectives found in mining songs, including excitement, practicality, despondency, and grievances. The article highlights the increase in literacy among coal mining workers and the circulation of songs through printed materials. It questions whether modern-day miners create songs and mentions the presence of anti-mining songs. Resources for further exploration of Australian mining folklore are provided. [Extracted from the article]

This article examines the activities of two major British mining companies, Consolidated Gold Fields and Rio Tinto, in Australia from the 1950s to the 1990s. Both companies faced challenges as foreign companies operating in Australia and made changes to their corporate structures. Consolidated Gold Fields acquired shareholdings in other mining companies, while Rio Tinto expanded through mergers and acquisitions. The article discusses the growth and evolution of these companies and the factors that contributed to their differences. It also mentions the merger of RGC and Westralian Sands, as well as RGC's holding in Goldfields Limited, which eventually became owned by Barrick Gold. [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the history of the Te Aroha community and mining district in New Zealand, focusing on the gold rush in the 1860s and the impact on the community. It discusses the presence of both Maori and European settlers and the tensions between them. The text also highlights the decline of the Ngati Rahiri tribe and the loss of their land due to government policies. It provides insights into the cultural and social dynamics of the community during this time period. Additionally, there are documents containing references and citations from various sources related to the Te Aroha community and mining district, offering valuable insights for researchers. [Extracted from the article]

This article provides a biographical account of William Sydney (W.S.) Robinson, a prominent figure in the Australian mining industry. Robinson played a key role in the establishment and development of various mining companies, including Zinc Corporation and New Broken Hill Consolidated. He also contributed to the development of an aluminum industry in Australia and played a significant role in international business and government relations during the war years. Despite facing health challenges, Robinson was highly respected for his knowledge, friendliness, and commitment to worker welfare. His legacy can be seen in the lasting impact he had on the industry. The document contains a compilation of sources used for research purposes, including biographical details, speeches, letters, and other references. [Extracted from the article]

This article explores the contributions of Maurice Lyons, a Queensland mining entrepreneur, to the mining industry in Queensland and New South Wales from 1876 to 1915. Lyons was involved in various mining ventures, including coal mining and stone quarrying, but faced financial difficulties and had some unsuccessful ventures. He also had interests in fraudulent operations and owned a large opal. Despite facing challenges, Lyons continued to promote mining opportunities until his death in 1917. Overall, his contributions to the mining industry have been largely unrecognized and undocumented. [Extracted from the article]

AbstractThe complex hydrogeological conditions and unique hydrochemical environment in the seabed rock often cause serious mine water inrush during undersea mining. With the exploitation of the undersea gold mining area in Sanshandao as the research background, a numerical analysis method for the seepage behavior of the surrounding rock in undersea gold mining considering the hydrochemical corrosion was put forward. A numerical simulation analysis of the undersea mining area in Sanshandao was conducted by the established method, and the results showed that mining the submarine ore body significantly changed the seepage field of the surrounding rock around the stope and water levels dropped obviously in the ore-controlling fault zone. Differences in the hydrochemical environment significantly influenced the distribution of the seepage field of the surrounding rock. The calculation results based on three fluids with different pH values show that the head variation range is the largest when pH = 2, followed by pH = 4, and pH = 7 has the smallest head variation range. The water inflow in the stope was also directly affected by the hydrochemical environment. With the change of pH, the water inflow at each boundary of the stope increases exponentially. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining has commonly used the mercury amalgamation method for gold ore extraction. The processing waste or tailings often contain gold and other metals. This study examined the effects of cow manure amendment and the ratio of gold mine tailings on sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) gold phytomining. The pot experiment was conducted in the Faculty of Agriculture greenhouse at Padjadjaran University in Indonesia. The sweet potato MZ119 clone (an orange-fleshed sweet potato) was planted on a polybag (40 x 40 cm) consisting of 10 kg of planting media, which was a mixture of gold mine tailing and soil. The design used was a completely randomized design factorial with three replications. The first factor was ratios of gold mine tailing consisting of three levels, namely 30%, 50%, 70%, and 100% (w/w). The second factor was doses of organic manure, namely without cow manure, 250 g pot-1, 500 g pot-1, and 750 g pot-1. The results demonstrated that the application of cow dung and the gold mine tailings ratio (w/w) had a significant (p = 0.05) effect on plants' dry weight biomass, gold accumulation, and gold phytomining by sweet potato. The highest gold mass yield of 0.066 mg gold plant-1 was achieved by a 50% (w/w) gold mine tailing ratio and 750 g pot-1 cow manure treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Gold mining wastes have long been a significant concern in Agusan del Sur, a gold mining district in the Philippines. The region is vulnerable to climate change effects such as typhoons and flooding, which may lead to contaminated runoff or overflow that could potentially harm the local agriculture and adjacent natural ecosystems. This study aims to analyze the properties of the gold mill tailings, investigate their potential for reutilization, and identify areas that need improvement in order to promote an inclusive approach towards the valorization of mine waste. METHODS: The samples were collected randomly from a small- scale gold mill tailings storage facility. The samples underwent analysis for elemental and oxide composition, particle dimensions, potential of hydrogen, lead, mercury, free cyanide and hexavalent chromium. A gap analysis was utilized to pinpoint the methods for enhancing a socially inclusive reuse strategy for the mill tailings. FINDINGS: The characterization of the tailings reveal that some heavy metals like zinc, titanium, copper, barium, and manganese, and hazardous substances like arsenic, mercury, and lead are present. Elevated levels of mercury, lead, and free cyanide were detected in the wastewater, with concentrations of 0.029 milligram per liter, 0.40 milligram per liter, and 1.9 milligram per liter, respectively, surpassing the allowable thresholds. There is a high risk of contaminating the neighboring ecosystem during flooding events and waste overflow. The tailings also contain fine particles of about 75 percent fine sand and 25 percent clay. Adequate maintenance of tailings storage facilities, community awareness of waste-related risks and hazards, legal frameworks and financial backing to encourage waste utilization, local community empowerment, and adherence to occupational health and safety guidelines in waste management are essential strategies to bridge existing disparities and foster a socially inclusive approach to mine waste valorization. CONCLUSION: The gold mill tailings contain hazardous substances and fine dust, potentially damaging the nearby ecosystem and community. It is essential to prioritize the maintenance of a well-managed tailings storage facility in order to avoid contamination. The reuse of gold mill waste tailings can bring about economic, social, and environmental advantages. However, there are gaps that must be addressed to achieve a socially inclusive gold mill waste circularization. The utmost importance should be placed on the health and safety aspect, and it is advisable to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the degree to which hazardous substances are polluting the surrounding ecosystem, including the local community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Mercury and lead contamination resulting from various anthropogenic activities represents a global environmental problem and a considerable risk to the health of the human population. (2) Methods: The objective of this research was to evaluate the concentrations of mercury (Hg) and Lead (Pb) in the blood of the child population in the municipalities in the Atrato River basin using a direct Hg analyzer and graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. (3) Results: In total, 171 children (5–14 years of age) were taken into account, and 18.71% (32) of the children had concentrations of Hg and Pb above the permissible values established by the WHO. In the municipality of UN, 19 children had blood Hg concentrations between 5.29 and 17.71 μg/L. In CA, two children had concentrations of 5.03 and 8.43 μg/L, separately. In the case of Pb, seven children showed concentrations between 3.60 and 4.83 μg/dL in the municipality of RQ, three in UN (3.59, 3.61, and 4.60 μg/dL), and one in Carmen de Atrato (5.47 μg/dL). (4) Conclusions: The levels of Hg and Pb in the blood of children living in the riparian areas of the Atrato River basin are related to gold mining activities in the basin and the consumption of contaminated fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold mining, even under strict environmental regulations, inevitably causes environmental impacts and liabilities. To address this, the study proposes a framework for environmental zoning around gold mines based on the distribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), pollution indices, and bioindicators. Soil samples were collected from municipalities affected by gold mining projects, and concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Cr were measured. Then, the Pollution Load Index (PLI) was calculated. A plant model was used for the biomonitoring of PTEs, and the Plant Vigor Index (PVI) was determined. Finally, environmental zoning was proposed through geospatial analysis combining PTEs, PLI, and PVI values. The concentrations of PTEs were as follows: As ranged from 1.7 to 892, Cd from 0.1 to 65.2, Pb from 18.5 to 2345, and Cr from 5.4 to 118.4. Spearman's rank correlation showed significant relations (ρ > 0.76) between bioindicators and PTE concentrations and PLI. The PVI correlated significantly with PTE concentrations (ρ − 0.41 to − 0.67) and PLI (ρ − 0.65). The municipalities were categorized into three zones: highly contaminated, moderately contaminated, and minimally contaminated. Overall, the environmental zoning maps serve as a management tool for environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The redox condition, a key parameter of mineralization, is one of the most difficult parameters to constrain precisely. Here we employ electron probe and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to analyse sulphur (S) in apatite grains from five granitoid plutons that are differentially related to gold mineralization in the world-class gold fields of Jiaodong, Xiaoqinling, and Wutai-Hengshan within the North China Craton (NCC) to constrain the redox condition of melt. The results show increasing order of the apatite S content and S6+/ΣS ratios in the Linglong (only spatially close the Jiaodong gold deposits), Sunzhuang (related with the Yixingzhai gold deposits), Huashan (weakly related with the Xiaoqinling gold deposits), Wenyu (closely related with the Xiaoqinling gold deposits) and Guojialing plutons (closely related with the world-class Jiaodong gold deposits), indicating that the oxidation state increased from the Linglong pluton to the Guojialing pluton. The S concentrations of Guojialing, Wenyu, Huashan and Sunzhuang plutons, are estimated using previous methods are, 120–208 ppm, 107–138 ppm, 72–77 ppm and 10–74 ppm, respectively. Combined with the regional differences in gold mineralization in the North China Craton, the gradual increase in mineralization scale is consistent with the trend of increasing oxidation state in the granitoid plutons from Wutai-Hengshan to Xiaoqinling to Jiaodong goldfields, thus also underpinning the contribution of Mesozoic granites to gold mineralization in the North China Craton through providing the thermal energy and medium for the activation and migration of ore-forming fluids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In most countries engaged on the last mile towards malaria elimination, residual transmission mainly persists among vulnerable populations represented by isolated and mobile (often cross-border) communities. These populations are sometimes involved in informal or even illegal activities. In regions with Plasmodium vivax transmission, the specific biology of this parasite poses additional difficulties related to the need for a radical treatment against hypnozoites to prevent relapses. Among hard-to-reach communities, case management, a pillar of elimination strategy, is deficient: acute malaria attacks often occur in remote areas, where there is limited access to care, and drugs acquired outside formal healthcare are often inadequately used for treatment, which typically does not include radical treatment against P. vivax. For these reasons, P. vivax circulation among these communities represents one of the main challenges for malaria elimination in many non-African countries. The objective of this article is to describe the protocol of the CUREMA study, which aims to meet the challenge of targeting malaria in hard-to-reach populations with a focus on P. vivax. Results: CUREMA is a multi-centre, international public health intervention research project. The study population is represented by persons involved in artisanal and small-scale gold mining who are active and mobile in the Guiana Shield, deep inside the Amazon Forest. The CUREMA project includes a complex intervention composed of a package of actions: (1) health education activities; (2) targeted administration of treatment against P. vivax after screening against G6PD deficiency to asymptomatic persons considered at risk of silently carrying the parasite; (3) distribution of a self-testing and self-treatment kit (malakit) associated with user training for self-management of malaria symptoms occurring while in extreme isolation. These actions are offered by community health workers at settlements and neighbourhoods (often cross-border) that represent transit and logistic bases of gold miners. The study relies on hybrid design, aiming to evaluate both the effectiveness of the intervention on malaria transmission with a pre/post quasi-experimental design, and its implementation with a mixed methods approach. Conclusions: The purpose of this study is to experiment an intervention that addresses both Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax malaria elimination in a mobile and isolated population and to produce results that can be transferred to many contexts facing the same challenges around the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review critically examines the effects of AMD from the gold mines of South Africa and available options. We also critically analyse case studies, research gaps, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the AMD. Our assessment indicates the availability of potential technological advancements that might flip the paradigm in favour of less sludge being produced, lower operational costs, and more effective AMD treatment strategies. This has led to the development of long-term plans for AMD treatment technologies and the recovery of important minerals. There is currently a demand for integrated AMD technologies that take a holistic approach to long-term AMD treatment. Reusing water and recovering valuable resources like sulphuric acid, rare earth elements, and other metals have received a lot of attention. Continued study and implementation of such strategies will support sustainable gold mining, address the environmental damage caused by AMD, and optimize resource and revenue-generating potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The East Kunlun Orogenic Belt is an essential part of the Qin-Qikun composite orogenic system, the most crucial orogenic belt in Qinghai Province, and an important gold ore-producing area in China. The Gouli gold field in its eastern section is one of the most important gold fields discovered in the belt in recent years. The Mailong mining area is an important gold mining area in the Gouli ore-concentrated area. The area has experienced frequent and intense magmatic activity, with intrusive rock bodies extensively exposed and intersected by a complex network of fault structures, providing excellent geological conditions for the formation of gold deposits. However, it is difficult to explore due to high altitude, poor transportation, and shallow coverage. This study used an audio magnetotelluric sounding method to track the deep direction and inclination of known mineral belts in the Mailong mining area, and identified mineral exploration targets, providing a basis for mineral exploration. Subsequently, a gold ore body was discovered through drilling verification, achieving a breakthrough in deep mineral exploration. The electromagnetic exploration method works well for exploring structurally altered rock-type gold deposits in plateau desert areas, and combined with the results of this electromagnetic exploration, a metallogenic geological model and genesis process of the Mailong mining area has been constructed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research quantifies the health risks associated with exposure to heavy metals in the Matjhabeng Local Municipality, a gold mining region in South Africa, utilising a deterministic source–pathway–receptor approach. This study uniquely integrates both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessments across multiple heavy metals, providing a comprehensive perspective on health impacts in mining-impacted communities. The study measured concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), cobalt (Co), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) in soil samples, with mean values found to be 3.2 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 45 mg/kg, 17 mg/kg, and 25 mg/kg for As, Cd, Pb, Co, and Cr, respectively. The deterministic assessment revealed minimal non-carcinogenic risks for ingestion across all demographics (HQ < 1), while significant dermal risks were identified for Cd, Pb, Co, and Cr (HQ > 1), particularly for the adult group. The inhalation pathway emerged as a critical exposure route, with HQ values ranging from 5 to 15 and chronic hazard index values significantly exceeding safe limits (CHI > 5). The carcinogenic risk through inhalation notably surpassed the acceptable thresholds set by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (1 × 10−4 to 1 × 10−6), with a calculated lifetime cancer risk far exceeding the limit for As, Cd, Cr, Co, and Ni for both adults and juveniles. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted risk mitigation strategies in the community to address the significant health risks posed by airborne heavy metal exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the mining depth of major gold mines around the world increases, high-temperature surrounding rock transfers a significant amount of heat to the airflow in roadways, thereby significantly raising the air temperature. The use of insulating materials on roadway surfaces has proved to be an effective method for improving the thermal environment of underground workplaces. This study validates the functionality of pumping wet shotcrete with phase change materials (PWS-MPCM), previously developed for roadway support, using fluid dynamics numerical simulation to analyze the temperature distribution within the surrounding rock. The results show that PWS MPCM significantly impacts the temperature distribution within the surrounding rock and exhibits excellent thermal insulation and temperature control properties. This study demonstrates that PWS-MPCM can be a fundamental solution for mitigating heat hazards in deep gold mines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil fertility heterogeneity is one of the main factors affecting early recovery and plant succession toward a target plant community. This study examined the influence of topography on the diversity and composition of plant communities established in areas degraded by opencast mining in Chocó, Colombia. Soil fertility and plant community were characterized in the four topographic formations identified in the abandoned mines: plains (PL), slopes (SLP), floodplains (FP), and sand and gravel mounds (SGM). Topographic formations did not result in significant differences in soil properties. However, a gradient of fertility and vegetation cover was observed: from the SGM, with less fertile soils and little vegetation, to the PL, SLP, and FP, with the most fertile soils and greater vegetation cover and density. The species composition found in PL, SLP, and FP was similar but differed from that of SGM. These results suggest that the SGM does not promote early revegetation in the mines. However, experimental studies are necessary to determine how topographic formations and soil conditions resulting from mining should be managed to facilitate the early recovery of vegetation and the ecological restoration of areas affected by mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most of Africa's illegal mining operations are conducted in rural areas, but along the Red Sea coast, they primarily occur in the Eastern Desert, where they are regarded as the major source of revenue. Soil samples were collected and examined at an illegal gold mining site in the far south of Egypt's Eastern Desert to determine the toxicity levels of eight heavy metals for pollution load index (PLI), Igeo, and health (Au, Ag, As, Hg, Ni, Cr, Zn, and Pb). The methodology used in this study was categorized into fieldwork with restricted rules within the visit, soil samples collected from the field, chemical analyses for heavy metals, and statistical analyses by applying six equations to define the environmental status of the study area. It was found that the PLI increases contamination as an environmental risk grade, Igeo, reaches grade 6, which is highly contaminated, and the average hazard index (HI) for the individual elements is high (>0.01). The health risk assessment results for Ni and Cr showed that oral intake was the main mode of exposure to heavy metals in the tailings of illegal mines. In addition, the average levels of As, Hg, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn were higher than the equivalent background levels for soils. Thus, adult cancer risk (CR) exceeds the permissible level of 10−4. The illicit mining activities in the Eastern Desert also resulted in heavy metal contamination with substantial noncarcinogenic hazards for As and Zn, necessitating urgent remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Fawakheir-Attala gold mining zone in Egypt's Central Eastern Desert features a diverse range of rock formations, including Precambrian crystalline rocks and Phanerozoic sedimentary formations. These formations encompass gneisses, metavolcanics, metasediments, a metagabbro-diorite complex, Dokhan volcanic rocks, and granitic rocks, alongside lower and upper Nubia sandstones. Faults and shear zones are pivotal in controlling gold mineralization within the area, indicative of substantial mineral wealth. This study aimed to map subsurface structural characteristics and investigate gold mineralization zones using aerial magnetic data and ASTER remote sensing, the latter of which played a crucial role in highlighting the surface exposure of alteration zones. Geological surveys combined with remote sensing techniques were employed to identify rock types and mineralization zones, while magnetic methods, including aeromagnetic surveys and ground-based studies, were used to reveal underlying structural properties and fault systems. Analysis of aeromagnetic data revealed a large mineralization zone running from the Fawakhir Gold mine through the Attala Gold mine in a NW–SE direction. Various structural trends and faults, including NW–SE, NE–SW, E–W, and N–S directions, were identified, strongly associated with hydrothermal alteration zones and gold mineralization. Shallow basement relief was observed in the eastern and central regions, contrasting with deeper formations and greater relief in the western section. Land magnetic surveys were utilized to identify new areas for gold mineralization, with geochemical analysis confirming gold content in quartz veins and host rocks. The integration of magnetic and remote sensing techniques effectively highlighted alteration zones indicative of potential mineralization, which could have a subsurface continuation, aiding in the identification of gold occurrences connected to faults, lineaments, and mineralization zones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) has made several environmental impacts, resulting in the significant siltation of water bodies due to the deposition of sediments on riverbanks. Based on this perspective, this study aims to investigate the water bodies and regions most impacted by mining activities, especially in relation to the increase in the Total Suspended Solids (TSS) caused by ASGM, focusing on the territories of Suriname and French Guiana, over the period from 2017 to 2023, through the creation of an algorithm in Google Earth Engine. This research also aims to map and describe active mining in this region using the Classification and Regression Tree (CART) method, which achieved an overall accuracy of 82% and a kappa index of 0.77. The results reveal that from 2017 to 2024, there was an increase of 148.09 km2 in mining, with an average increase in TSS of up to 167 mg/L in water bodies most affected by mining activities. Finally, the continued importance of using remote sensing technologies, such as GEE, together with innovative methodological approaches, to monitor and manage natural resources in a sustainable manner is highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article discusses the phenomenon of resource nationalism in Indonesia, where high commodity prices often lead to increased state intervention and control over the economy. Historically, Indonesia has followed this trend, scaling back nationalist ambitions during periods of low commodity prices to attract foreign investment. However, in recent years, Indonesia has continued to pursue economic nationalism in its natural resources sector, even as commodity prices have fallen. The article highlights a new book that explores this topic, examining the different forms and outcomes of economic nationalism in sectors such as coal, palm oil, and petroleum. The book argues that business power plays a significant role in driving or containing nationalist proposals, but the state also has an active role in pursuing the national interest. The article concludes by discussing the reasons for the persistence of resource nationalism in Indonesia, including the diversification of the economy and the growth of domestic businesses. Overall, the book provides valuable insights into the complex political economy of Indonesia and sets the stage for future research. [Extracted from the article]

Artisanal gold mining is recognized as a long-standing activity in the Siguiri prefecture in general and the Doko sub-prefecture in particular. Despite its significant contribution to community development, it has disastrous consequences for both the environment and the lives of gold miners. The collapse of underground galleries as a result of gold panning is a phenomenon that plunges families into mourning in gold panning areas in Africa. Unlike other land movements, despite their dangerous nature, there has been almost no scientific interest in limiting the consequences of collapsing underground galleries in goldmines. Working to mitigate their effects is more than a necessity for those involved in gold panning.This study aims to understand the perceptions of those involved in gold panning regarding the conditions of occurrence and the main causes of underground gallery collapses, to formulate recommendations to the authorities and gold miners to minimize the risk of these accidents occurring and their impact. The methodology used was based on semi-structured and structured interviews. The results of this survey show that the human factor is certainly the main cause of accidents (collapse of underground galleries), but the design of structures without taking into account the study of the geomechanical properties of the ground, the weakness of the safety measures put in place, and the lack of involvement of the country's authorities are not negligible factors. This study identified the causes and consequences of these accidents, as well as the responsibilities of those involved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mercury (Hg) pollution around artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) areas has been of much concern. Many studies have reported elevated Hg concentrations in environmental media, but studies on dust relating to inhalation exposure of Hg around ASGM area are limited. In this study, we investigated Hg in indoor and outdoor dust to reveal environmental and human health risk around ASGM in Amansie West district, Ghana. Indoor and outdoor dust samples were collected from Manso Abore and Manso Nkwanta in Ashanti Region. Concentration of Hg in the samples were analyzed using a direct Hg analyzer. The mean and median value of Hg concentration in the indoor dust (n = 31) were 2.2 ± 3.6 mg/kg and 0.72 mg/kg respectively while that of the outdoor dust (n = 60) were 0.19 ± 0.48 mg/kg and 0.042 mg/kg, respectively. The mean and median Hg concentration in indoor dust were about 11 and 17 times higher respectively than that in the outdoor dust. The Hg concentration in the indoor dust was statistically significantly higher than that of the non-miner in Manso Abore (p < 0.05) but was not significant in Manso Nkwanta, probably due to higher mining activity. The geo-accumulation index of the outdoor dust ranged from unpolluted to extremely polluted while that of the indoor dust ranged from moderately polluted to extremely polluted. Health risk assessments suggested that there was no potential non-carcinogenic health effect for Hg exposure relating to the dust to residents living in rooms of miners and non-miners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Malaria is a major disease burden in Ethiopia. Migration can influence malaria transmission dynamics, with individuals relocating from malaria-free highland regions to malarious lowlands potentially facing elevated risks of contracting malaria. Migrants may find it difficult to protect themselves against malaria and have limited access to diagnosis or treatment. Settlers in gold mining sites are one type of migrant and are often neglected in malaria research yet may have particularly high malaria risk. This study was a malaria prevalence survey among settlers in a new gold mining settlement in the highly malarious Gambella Region, Ethiopia. Methods n = 590 people were surveyed for demographic information and their knowledge and practices of malaria. Participants were tested for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy. Using logistic regressions, the influence of demographic characteristics on malaria infections and bed net access were analysed. A sub-sample of participants was interviewed to comprehend settlement living conditions and healthcare accessibility. Results The overall prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum was 37.5% (CI 32.4–42.3%). Young children were most likely to have malaria, with individuals aged 15–24 having 67% lower odds (aOR: 0.33; CI 0.13–0.86) of infection compared to those aged 1–4 years old. Meanwhile, those age 25-plus had 75% decreased odds of malaria infection (aOR 0.25; CI 0.10–0.65). Individuals with bed nets had ~ 50% decreased odds of testing positive for falciparum malaria than those reporting having no bed net (aOR: 0.47; CI 0.22–0.97). Individuals who relocated from low elevation with high malaria test positivity rate areas were more prone to testing positive for malaria, as were those residing in densely populated households with multiple malaria cases. Conversely, individuals from higher elevations with low malaria test positivity rates, and those living in households with 5–10 occupants and

An electrochemical nitrite sensor probe is introduced herein using a modified flat glassy carbon electrode (GCE) and SrTiO3 material doped with spherical-shaped gold nanoparticles (Au-NPs) and polypyrrole carbon (PPyC) at a pH of 7.0 in a phosphate buffer solution. The nanocomposites (NCs) containing Au-NPs, PPyC, and SrTiO3 were synthesized by ultrasonication, and their properties were thoroughly characterized through structural, elemental, optical, and morphological analyses with various conventional spectroscopic methods, such as field-emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller method. The peak currents due to nitrite oxidation were characterized in detail and analyzed using conventional cyclic voltammetry (CV) as well as differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) under ambient conditions. The sensor response increased significantly from 0.15 to 1.5 mM of nitrite ions, and the sensor was fabricated by coating a conducting agent (PEDOT:PSS) on the GCE to obtain the Au-NPs/PPyC/SrTiO3 NCs/PEDOT:PSS/GCE probe. The sensor's sensitivity was determined as 0.5 ^A/^iM-cm2 from the ratio of the slope of the linear detection range by considering the active surface area (0.0316 cm2) of the flat GCE. In addition, the limit of detection was determined as 20.00 ± 1.00 ^M, which was found to be satisfactory. The sensor's stability, pH optimization, and reliability were also evaluated in these analyses. Overall, the sensor results were found to be satisfactory. Real environmental samples were then analyzed to evaluate the sensor's reliability through DPV, and the results showed that the proposed novel electrochemical sensor holds great promise for mitigating water contamination in the real samples with the lab-made Au-NPs/PPyC/SrTiO3 NC. Thus, this study provides valuable insights for improving sensors for broad environmental monitoring applications using the electrochemical approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: More than 95% of malaria transmission in Brazil occurs in the Legal Amazon Region, which in 2010 recorded around 333,429 cases reported in the Epidemiological Surveillance Information System-Malaria (Sivep_malaria), presenting an annual parasitic incidence (IPA) of 13.1 cases/1000 inhabitants. Methods: This was a descriptive study that measured the community prevalence of Plasmodium infection and its relationship with land use in Três Fronteiras District, Colniza Municipality, Mato Grosso State. Data were collected during household visits in July 2011, with blood collection from finger pricks for the preparation of thick smear slides, and completion of a standardized case notification form. A georeferenced database was analysed, with land use evaluated as categorical variables. A kernel density map was built to show the density of cases and their location. Results: Of the 621 respondents, 68(11%) had Plasmodium infection: 39 (57.4%) with Plasmodium vivax, 27(39.7%) with Plasmodium falciparum and two (2.9%) with mixed infections. Among infected individuals, 49 (72.1%) were men. Cases of malaria were distributed over the district, with greater occurrence of cases per household in open areas close to the mining company and artisanal mining sites. The was a greater density of cases located in the gold mining region. Conclusion: Transmission of malaria in Três Fronteiras District has a heterogeneous distribution. Individuals residing in mining and timber extraction sites have increased occurrence of Plasmodium infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the impacts of war and siege on farmers' livelihoods in Tigray (2020–2022), Ethiopia, through field observations during the crisis, and a literature review. We found military tactics and activities alongside institutional changes were the main pathways driving famine among vulnerable farming communities through destruction of crops, damage to property, and slaughter of livestock. Moreover, farmers were deprived of access to alternative sources of livelihood such as beekeeping, traditional gold mining, and seasonal migration. Notably, absence of freedom of movement and withdrawal of national and international aid organizations limited the farmers' survival options. The crisis also aggravated the pre-war food insecurity in the area. We argue that economic rehabilitation must be accompanied by the building of a durable peace as soon as possible to restore sustainable livelihoods for farming communities in Tigray. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During plantation slavery, African rice (Oryza glaberrima Steud.) was widely cultivated in the Americas but was soon replaced by Asian rice (Oryza sativa L.). Maroons, descendants of Africans who escaped slavery in Suriname and French Guiana, continue to cultivate African rice. Genomic research linked this rice to an O. glaberrima variety in the Ivory Coast. Based on interviews with 99 Maroon farmers, of whom 23 cultivate black rice, we describe its diverse uses as (ceremonial) food, offerings, spiritual medicine, and its role during funerals. Maroon oral history accounts on the origin of black rice differ among and within communities: enslaved women brought it from Africa or took it from the plantations where they worked; escaped slaves found it in the savanna; or ancestors encountered it in interior swamps. These multiple and sometimes contradictory accounts of the origins of black rice are related to the diverse ethnic and geographical backgrounds of the Africans brought as slaves to Suriname and their different histories with the crop after marronage. Various characteristics of black rice, including its ability to compete with weeds and grow on poor soils, its shattering seeds, and its visibility to birds explain how this African domesticate survived in the wild in the Amazonian forest. The migration of Maroons to cities, their engagement in gold mining, and their evangelization may lead to the loss of black rice knowledge and practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to isolate Nitrogen-fixing bacteria from tailing and heavy metal (HM) polluted soils and examine their effectiveness as a plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) to increase foxtail millet plant growth. We analyzed artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) sites in Pongkor Village, West Java, Indonesia, and identified nine areas with significant contamination of Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), and Arsenic (As). We isolated sixteen strains of nitrogen-fixing bacteria different carbon sources. We identified three strains (3.2.h, 4.2.b, and 9.2.a) that the most robust nitrogenase activity and indole acetic acid (IAA) production. They were identified based on their molecular characteristics (16S rRNA) as Ralstonia pickettii strain LMQOTU12, Azotobacter chroococcum subsp. isscasi strain P205, and Azotobacter chroococcum subsp. isscasi strain P205. The three isolates were inoculated to foxtail millet plant grown under Andosol slightly acidic (pH 5.8), moderate nitrogen content (0.26%). The three strains isolates demonstrated significant enhancement to foxtail millet plants' growth. Improvements (compared to control) in shoot dry weight: 8% (3.2.h), 32% (4.2.b), 88% (9.2.a); longest root length: 88.71% (3.2.h), 108.90% (4.2.b), 140.16%; root dry weight: 350% (3.2.h), 450% (4.2.b), 250% (9.2.a); and root-shoot ratio 312% (3.2.h), 312% (4.2.b), 75% (9.2.a). This study demonstrates that the three strains are potential PGPRs for increasing plant growth of foxtail millet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The province of Gauteng in South Africa has a rich history of gold mining, which has driven economic growth and urbanization. Gold mining has also created over 270 gold mine tailings (GMT), now surrounded by human settlements due to a housing shortage. These GMT pose a health risk as they harbor elevated uranium, which over time undergoes radioactive decay to produce radon, a known lung carcinogen. This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between the proximity to gold mine tailings (GMT) and indoor radon concentrations in Gauteng's residential dwellings. Volume activity of radon (VAR) inside 330 residential dwellings was measured in residential dwellings located proximally (<2 km) and distally (>2 km) to gold mine tailings using AlphaE radon monitors during winter. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on factors that may influence indoor radon activities. Descriptive statistics and bivariate logistic regression analyzed the influence of proximity to gold mine tailings and dwelling characteristics on VAR. Furthermore, VAR was compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) radon reference level of 100 Bq/m3. Residential dwellings near gold mine tailings had significantly higher average indoor radon concentrations (103.30 Bq/m3) compared to the control group (65.19 Bq/m3). Residential dwellings proximal to gold mine tailings were three times more likely to have VAR beyond the WHO reference level of 100 Bq/m3. Furthermore, they had estimated annual effective doses of 2.60 mSv/y compared to 1.64 mSv/y for the control group. This study highlighted a concerning association between proximity to gold mine tailings and elevated indoor radon levels. Public health interventions prioritizing residential dwellings near gold mine tailings are crucial. Educational campaigns and financial assistance for radon mitigation systems in high-risk dwellings are recommended. Residents near gold mine tailings are encouraged to ensure continuous natural ventilation through frequent opening of windows and doors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold mining in Egypt's Central Eastern Desert (ECED) has a rich history dating back to the Old Kingdom period. In recent years, there has been renewed interest from international mining companies, and several potential areas for gold mining have been identified. Extensive studies have been conducted on the deposition and occurrence of gold in the region, identifying over 100 areas of deposition. Aeromagnetic and radioactive surveys have played a crucial role in locating gold occurrences in ECED by utilizing data from these techniques to identify potential gold deposits. This study utilized geophysical data, including total aeromagnetic intensity (TM) and radiometric data, to identify hydrothermal zones and locate potential areas of gold occurrence. The radiometric ternary map was used to refine the search for gold deposits. Magnetic data were analyzed using edge detection tools to determine the structural framework of the area, facilitating the identification of regions with a high potential for gold occurrence. By integrating these geophysical datasets, this study provided a comprehensive understanding of the geological features and potential for gold mineralization in the study area. The area is divided into four sections by three shear zones, with high magnetic anomalies observed in the southeastern part. The radiometric data revealed that gold occurrence is associated with hydrothermal alteration zones, identified using the K/Th ratio and radiometric ternary map. However, not all these zones contain gold, and the area's structure and magnetic suitability must be considered when selecting suitable locations for gold extraction. The study area presents a promising opportunity for gold exploration, with the integration of edge detection and radiometric analysis being crucial in identifying suitable locations for exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]