Comparative investigation of heavy metal, trace, and macro element contents in commercially valuable fish species harvested off from the Persian Gulf

Lactational Exposure of Human Infants to Metal (loid)s: A Comparison of Industrial and Urban Inhabitants in North of the Persian Gulf

In this study, postnatal metal (loid)s (MLs) exposure was compared between the petrochemical and gas area of Asaluyeh (PGA) and urban area of Kaki (UA) in Bushehr province, Iran. Two hundred human breast milk (BM) samples from the industrial and urban areas were analyzed for MLs using Inductivity Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES). Boron (B), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and nickel (Ni) were found at the highest levels in both study areas. Adjusted multiple linear regression models revealed that the mean concentration of total MLs in BM samples collected from the PGA was statistically significantly greater than that of the UA (655.85 vs. 338.17 µg/L). Also, the mean concentrations of all detected MLs in BM samples collected from the PGA were statistically significantly higher than those collected from the UA. The hazard index (HI) of combined MLs in the PGA and UA illustrated non-cancer risk for infants. Lead (Pb) and chromium (Cr) in the PGA and Cr in the UA showed the risk of cancer. So it can be concluded that nursing infants from an industrial area are most at risk for MLs exposure during entire lactation course than those from an urban area.

Determination of potentially toxic elements bioaccumulated in the commercially important pelagic fish narrow-barred Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus commerson)

Anthropogenic activities have increased the discharge of marine contaminants threatening marine life. Small gulfs, such as the Arabian Gulf, are vulnerable to accumulating potentially toxic elements in marine species due to slow water exchange. The concentration of 21 elements was determined in the tissues of Scomberomorus commerson from Umm Al Quwain (United Arab Emirates) and Bandar Abbas (Iran). Chromium, Copper, and Iron exceeded internationally established maximum permissible limits. Sites could not be distinguished based on Principle Component Analyses of elements. Elevated Cu and Cr in muscle are of concern to marine species as well as humans. Metal Pollution Index showed a significant difference between sites, with 20.34 % and 100 % of individuals suffering high metal toxicity and poor body conditions, respectively. The Arabian Gulf is experiencing an increase in discharge of industrial wastes. Implementation of strict policies to reduce discharge of toxic substances is required to protect marine organisms and humans.

Association Between Combined Polymetallic Exposure and Osteoporosis

Combined polymetallic exposure may be an influential factor in osteoporosis. This study aimed to explore the association between polymetallic combined exposure and osteoporosis. A total of 2115 participants were included. Plasma concentrations of 22 metals were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Osteoporosis was defined as a T ≤  - 2.5. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, binary logistics regression, and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) model were used to explore the association between plasma metals and osteoporosis. LASSO regression showed that 10 metals were associated with osteoporosis in the total population (magnesium, calcium, manganese, nickel, cobalt, arsenic, selenium, rubidium, cadmium, aluminum) and women (magnesium, calcium, molybdenum, nickel, cobalt, arsenic, selenium, rubidium, cadmium, aluminum), and four metals associated with men (magnesium, cobalt, aluminum, iron). Logistics regression showed that in total population, magnesium (ORQ3 = 0.653, 95% CI = 0.446-0.954) was negatively correlated with osteoporosis, while aluminum (ORQ2 = 1.569, 95% CI = 1.095-2.248, ORQ4 = 1.616, 95% CI = 1.109-2.354) and cadmium (ORQ4 = 1.989, 95% CI = 1.379-2.870) were positively correlated; in women, magnesium (ORQ3 = 0.579, 95% CI = 0.379-0.883) was negatively correlated with osteoporosis, while aluminum (ORQ2 = 1.563, 95% CI = 1.051-2.326, ORQ4 = 1.543, 95% CI = 1.024-2.326) and cadmium (ORQ3 = 1.482, 95% CI = 1.003-2.191, ORQ4 = 1.740, 95% CI = 1.167-2.596) were positively correlated. BKMR model showed that combined polymetallic exposure had an overall positive effect on osteoporosis, magnesium was negatively associated with osteoporosis, and cadmium, selenium, and aluminum were positively associated with osteoporosis. Metal mixtures in plasma were associated with osteoporosis risk. Magnesium may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, while cadmium, selenium, and aluminum may increase the risk of osteoporosis. Future studies needed to explore correlations and mechanisms.

The multi-media environmental behavior of heavy metals around tailings under the influence of precipitation

Precipitation can lead to significant leaching of heavy metals from abandoned tailings，resulting in a decline in the quality of the surrounding environment. This study aimed to simulate and quantify the migration patterns and fate of heavy metals in tailings caused by precipitation in various environmental media (tailings, air, water, soil, and sediments) using leaching tests, source apportionment, and a fugacity model. Results revealed that the average contents of Cd, Cu, As, Pb, Zn, and Cr in the un-weathered tailings were 3.43, 495.56, 160.70, 138.94, 536.57, and 69.52 mg/kg, respectively. The ecological risk factors in the tailings as well as in sediments and soils, were in the following order: Cd >Cu >As >Pb >Zn >Cr. A fugacity model based on the mass-balance methods was established, achieving a good agreement between simulation and measured values. The total amounts of Cd, Cu, As, Pb, and Zn leached from abandoned tailings over the 30-year evaluation period were estimated to be 1.09, 62.44, 0.16, 0.94, and 102.12 t, respectively. Soil and sediments are important reservoirs for heavy metals. The sum of the As, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn storage capacities in the soil and sediment accounted for 77.28%, 75.63%, 73.94%, 69.39%, and 57.80% of the total storage capacity, respectively. This study could provide the means for the establishment of a targeted pollution control plan, a guide for restoration projects, and will aid in controlling pollution risk and improving the surrounding environment.

Heavy metals concentration in zooplankton (copepods) in the western Bay of Bengal

Along the coastline, urbanisation and industrialization pose significant challenges to marine habitats and biodiversity. Most wastewater that reaches the marine environment contains toxic metals, which, as they are non-biodegradable, accumulate in the biota and enter the marine food chain. This study presents the concentration of nine heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Cd) in zooplankton (copepods) during the Spring Intermonsoon/Pre-Monsoon (April 2019) in the western Bay of Bengal (BoB). Higher Fe concentrations were found in copepods both nearshore (42,352 µg/g) and offshore (9835 µg/g). However, the relative amounts of heavy metals in copepods from 16 locations (eight nearshore and eight offshore) varied in the order of Fe > Zn > Cu > Co > Cr > Mn > Ni > Pb > Cd. The copepods in the nearshore locations had higher concentrations of heavy metals than those offshore. Compared to earlier data on heavy metals, particularly those that are physiologically non-essential and toxic, the current study demonstrates higher amounts of these metals in copepods in the inshore BoB [Ni (avg. 58.7 ± 5.5 µg/g), Pb (avg. 25.6 ± 4.7 µg/g), and Cd (avg. 16.4 ± 0.9 µg/g)]. Considering the strong East India Coastal Currents in the western BoB, trace metal-concentrated copepods could be transported too far along the Indian coastline from the current study area.

Distribution of Essential and Toxic Elements in Pelecus cultratus Tissues and Risk Assessment for Consumer Health

Nowadays, the problem of inland water pollution is acute. It is caused by vast industrial growth and agricultural intensification. Concentrations of Cd, Pb, Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe, Mg, and Kwere determined in the muscles, liver, and gonads sabrefish from Rybinsk Reservoir areas with different anthropogenic loads. The tissue samples were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. Heavy metals accumulated more intensively in the body of fish from more polluted areas of the reservoir. Among the analyzed elements, the maximum accumulation levels were found for K, Zn, and Fe and the minimum levels were observed for Cd and Pb. The gonads contained the largest concentration of Cd and Mn, the muscles contained the highest concentrations of Mg, and the other elements mainly accumulated in the liver of sabrefish. The THQ and HI values for all elements did not exceed 1, which suggests that there is no potential non-carcinogenic risk to human health. The target values of carcinogenic risk (TR) for cadmium ranged from 8.32 × 10-6 to 1.22 × 10-4 in the muscles. The increased content of cadmium in the gonads of sabrefish not only poses a risk to human health, but also to the reproduction of this species in the Rybinsk Reservoir.

Probabilistic benefit-risk analysis of fish: Nutritional benefit versus methylmercury-contaminated risk

This paper carries out probabilistic approach to quantify the benefit-risk analysis for foods (BRAFO) of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and methylmercury (MeHg) for the people who eat the mercury-contaminated fish in Taiwan. We applied the hazard quotient (HQ) model to assess the risk of developmental neuropsychological impairment effect and the desirable dose index (DI) model to quantify the health benefits. Besides, we also applied the disability adjusted life years (DALY) model to assess the number of years lost by incidence of affected infants' intelligence quotient (IQ) and coronary heart disease (CHD) or Stroke for adult. The results of this study show that although the risk of cod and scad are higher, Taiwan residents do not need to reduce intake rate based on benefit considerations. Furthermore, according to the benefits of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), this study suggests that more intake of saury and salmon.

Farming Sparus aurata (Teleostei: Sparidae) in marsh ponds: trophic characterization and trace metal accumulation

Considering the overexploitation of fishing on most of the world coasts, the ingestion of fish and shellfish will depend mostly on aquaculture production. Since intensive mariculture usually involves environmental impact, developing sustainable cultures is a priority. In this sense, salt marshes can provide ecosystem services and incorporate both conservation and extensive aquaculture activities. In the present study we compared gilthead seabream Sparus aurata Linnaeus, 1758 cultured in extensive and semi-intensive marsh ponds with wild conspecifics from surrounding coastal areas, using trophic characterization (diet analysis and stable isotopes) and trace metal accumulation. Stomach content analysis revealed different feeding habits among gilthead seabream from different origin. Although wild specimens had the most diverse diet, results of stable isotopes showed that extensive diet had the wider isotopic niche and revealed the highest similarities between wild and extensively cultured gilthead seabream. A similar trace element signature was also measured in wild and extensive culture, whereas the semi-intensive culture showed different concentrations for several elements. Cr, Fe and Mn showed the highest concentrations in semi-intensive cultured fish, while As and Zn showed the lowest values in this group. In any case, average values measured in both extensive and semi-intensive culture were, in general terms, below the hazardous limits provided by the standards recommended for trace metals by national and international regulations. Therefore, marsh ponds provide a suitable environment where the cultured fish, especially extensive, should be promoted.

Toxicity assessment of lead, nickel and cadmium on zebra fish augmented with Bacillus xiamenensis VITMSJ3: An insight on the defense mechanism against oxidative stress due to heavy metals

Increase urbanization in recent years has let to discharge of heavy metals into the environment which has caused severe impacts on soil as well as water. Therefore the current study was aimed to assess the toxicity of lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and cadmium (Cd) from the contaminated water using zebra fish Danio rerio and detoxification of metals upon augmentation with Bacillus xiamenensis. Exposure doses till 150 mg L^-1 of Pb, Ni and Cd in water showed lethal effects on fish. Similarly the histopathological analysis showed severe tissue disruption in the gills and liver which were less upon supplementation with bacterial strain VITMSJ3. On the 20th day, the uptake concentration of Pb, Ni and Cd in zebra fish was found to be 87 mg L^-1, 89 mg L^-1 and 91 mg L^-1 respectively with VITMSJ3, from the water. Antioxidant enzymatic activities showed an increase upon bacterial supplementation, which reduced the oxidative stress. Further SEM-EDAX analysis confirmed the presence of Pb, Ni and Cd ions adsorbed on the gills. The results clearly showed less oxidative damages in fish with increased head and reduced tail %. Overall, the results showed a significant difference (p < 0.05) among the treatments compared with the control.

Assessment of elemental composition in commercial fish of the Bay of Cádiz, Southern Iberian Peninsula

The assessment of trace metal content in our fish diet is important due to the adverse effect on human health. Despite the increasing interest about the fish quality, little information is available for Southern Spain, a region characterized by high seafood intake. Nine species from the Bay of Cádiz with high commercial value were selected. Similar values were measured in the nine studied species for most of the elements, except for the macroelements Ca and S, and the microelements Fe, Mn and As, which showed significant differences among species. Metal Pollution Index (MPI) did not differ among species, and it was similar to those obtained for other Atlantic and Mediterranean locations. The values measured for the nine species were below the health limits provided by World, European and Spanish legislations, indicating that, in general terms, consumption of these species is safe in the study area.

Metals bioaccumulation, possible sources and consumption risk assessment in five Sillaginid species, a case study: Bandar Abbas (Persian Gulf) and Chabahar Bay (Oman Sea), Iran

In this study, the concentrations of 10 metals (As, Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn) in different tissues (gill, muscle and otolith) of five sillaginid species (Sillago arabica, S. attenuata and S. sihama from the Persian Gulf and S. indica, S. sihama and Sillaginopodys chondropus from the Oman Sea) were analyzed using ICP-MS, and the potential human health risk assessment for local consumers was also conducted using standard indices. The concentration of trace metals (μg g^-1 dw) in fish ranged from 0.24 to 16.09 (As), 7.88 to 167.51 (Al), 0.005 > -0.866 (Cd), 0.006 > -7.95 (Cr), 1.02-5.58 (Cu), 24.86 to 390.85 (Fe), 0.005 > -1.93 (Hg), 0.021 > -7.80 (Ni), 0.33-4.41 (Pb) and 4.78-170.43 (Zn). The levels of trace metals varied significantly among sampling sites, fish species and their tissues. Gill tissues accumulate higher concentrations of the analyzed elements, except for As and Hg, whose higher concentrations were found in muscle tissues. Among the species, S. sihama in the Persian Gulf showed the highest levels of toxic metals compared to the other species. The dendrogram of metal association in fish muscle tissues revealed that Ni, Cr, Cd, Pb and Hg in muscles mainly originated from anthropogenic sources, especially petroleum activities. A second dendrogram based on the association of these five metals in the muscle tissue separated the sillaginid species of the Persian Gulf from the Oman Sea. The mean concentrations of the analyzed metals in the edible tissues were lower than international standards of maximum permissible limits (MPL), except for inorganic As (_iAs) and Pb. The index of estimated daily intake (EDI) for Cr and Hg in all sillaginid species, and _iAs, Pb and Ni only in the Persian Gulf's sillaginid species was higher than the recommended values. The value of the target hazard quotient (THQ) indicated that the intake of individual heavy metals due to the consumption of sillaginid species was safe for human health (except Hg in S. arabica) whereas combined heavy metals' intake revealed potential health problems in the case of increased consumption for all three sillaginids in the Persian Gulf. Target cancer risk (TR) for _iAs in all species and Cd, Cr and Ni in Persian Gulf species was higher than the acceptable range. The results indicated the health issues associated with high consumption, especially for sillaginids in the Persian Gulf, which should be considered in food safety monitoring for local people in the area.

Maternal and fetal exposure to metal (loid)s, maternal nutrition status, and impact on prenatal growth in an energy rich zone and an urban area along the Persian Gulf

The main purposes of the study were to determine whether maternal and cord blood (MB and CB) levels of metal (loid)s (MLs) are different between industrial and urban areas. Subjects were derived from the petrochemical and gas area (PGA) of Asaluyeh County and the urban area (UA) of Bushehr County in Iran. Adjusted models revealed significant differences between the PGA and UA for maternal Fe, Cu, Mg, Cd, Zn, Ni, V and Pb levels, likewise cord Cu, V, Pb and Ni levels, which were higher in the PGA. Unadjusted models revealed there were decreases in neonatal weight and head circumference by 16.550 g and 0.059 cm, respectively for each Ln unit increase in maternal Cr levels. The mean blood levels of MLs significantly associated with food consumption frequency. The MLs were detected at higher levels in the body's fetuses and their mothers who resided in the PGA than those from the UA. So, the fetuses of mothers living in an industrial areas may be at higher risk from anthropometric measures. The impact of prenatal exposure to MLs on prenatal growth should be considered for better understanding in the further studies.

Health risk assessment of commercial fish and shrimp from the North Persian Gulf

BACKGROUND

Bioaccumulation of trace metals in the food web demands continuous monitoring of seafood safety. Here, the food safety of commercial fish bluespot mullet Crenimugil seheli, deep flounder Pseudorhombus elevates, and Jinga shrimp Metapenaeus affinis was assessed from commercial and industrial region of the West Bandar Abbas, the North Persian Gulf, for the first time.

METHODS

For this purpose, concentrations of trace metals Ni, Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd, and Pb, and their health risks were investigated.

RESULTS

Results showed the average concentration of all trace metals in all species was below concentrations proposed by WHO/FAO/USEPA. The finding on risk assessment of three species indicated three species are safe for daily consumption. Long-term consumption of three species would not pose potential non-carcinogenic health risk. However, it would result in carcinogenic effects from the ingestion of trace metals Ni, Cr, and Cd.

CONCLUSIONS

The data emphasizes the need for the continuous monitoring in this industrial region in the future to manage and control pollutant sources and to ensure the quality of seafood.

A systematic review of the concentration of potentially toxic elements in fish from the Persian Gulf: A health risk assessment study

Fish as a critical food source is responsible for supplying nearly 20% of the average per capita animal protein for 3.2 billion people worldwide. However, oral exposure to potentially toxic elements (PTE) such as mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and arsenic (As) through marine fish consumption can cause health risks in consumers. This study aimed to collect information among databases (2000-2020), including ScienceDirect, PubMed, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and Google Scholar, regarding the concentration of PTEs in different types of fish from the Persian Gulf. In this regard, thirty articles containing 266 samples were included in the current systematic review. In addition, the non-carcinogenic risk caused by ingestion of PTEs via consumption of fish was calculated. The average PTE concentrations in fish muscles were presented in the following order: As (0.37 mg/kg ww) > Pb (0.20 mg/kg ww) > Cd (0.17 mg/kg ww) > Hg (0.13 mg/kg ww). However, the mean concentration of PTEs was below the defined level by the World Health Organization, and the findings revealed that the calculated average daily dose (ADD) for Cd and Pb in Iranian children and adult consumers was lower than the reference dose (RfD), whereas the ADD of Hg was higher than the RfD for children consumers. The total target hazard quotient for Iranian and children consumers was >1. The excess lifetime cancer risk values for Pb were safe, unlike those for Cd, which were in an unsafe range (>10^-4) for consumers.

Comparative Study of Potentially Toxic Nickel and Their Potential Human Health Risks in Seafood (Fish and Mollusks) from Peninsular Malaysia

Human exposure to highly nickel (Ni)-polluted environments through oral ingestion pathways may cause various pathological effects. This biomonitoring study aimed to assess the human health risk of potentially toxic Ni in 19 species of marine fishes from Setiu (Terengganu) and two popular seafood molluscs (mangrove snail Cerithidea obtusa and cockle Anadara granosa) from the coastal area of Peninsular Malaysia. The Ni levels of the three seafood types were found below the maximum permissible limit for Ni. The Ni target hazard quotient values of all seafood were lower than 1.00 for average and high-level (AHL) Malaysian consumers, indicating no Ni's non-carcinogenic risk of seafood consumption. It was also found that the calculated values of estimated weekly intake were below than established provisional tolerable weekly intake of Ni for both AHL consumers. It can be concluded that both the AHL consumption of seafood would not pose adverse effects of Ni to the consumers. This study provided a scientific basis for the food safety assessment of Ni and suggestions for risk management of potentially toxic Ni of seafood consumption in Malaysia.

Copper and Zinc Levels in Commercial Marine Fish from Setiu, East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia

Potentially toxic metals (PTMs) in edible marine fish have been widely reported from at least 15 different regions or countries in the literature. This evidently demonstrates the importance of monitoring the PTMs in fish fillets from a human health risk (HHR) point of view. This study aims to assess the HHR of Cu and Zn in 19 species of marine fish from popular marine fish loading sites at Setiu in Terengganu, on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, collected between August 2016 and February 2017. With overall ranges of concentrations (mg/kg dry weight) of Cu (1.50–7.83), and Zn (24.1–80.5), the 19 species of marine fishes from Setiu are good sources of these essential elements because they are below the maximum permissible limits set by seafood safety guidelines. The target hazard quotient values of Cu and Zn were lower than one, indicating non-carcinogenic risks of Cu and Zn in fish consumption. It was also found that the calculated values of the estimated weekly intake were below the established provisional tolerable weekly intake of Cu and Zn. It can be concluded that the consumption of fish from Setiu would not pose adverse effects from the PTMs to consumers. Nonetheless, continuous monitoring is necessary to ensure the safety of consumers who rely heavily on marine fish in Setiu coastal waters.

Childhood exposure to metal(loid)s in industrial and urban areas along the Persian Gulf using toenail tissue as a biomarker

Metal(loid)s (MLs) with natural or anthropogenic sources may cause adverse health effects in children. This study aimed to compare the childhood exposure to ΣMLs (essential, non-essential and toxic) in an industrial and an urban area in Southwest Iran using toenail tissue as a biomarker. The present study was carried out with school children in the age range of 7-12 years, who were living in an industrial area in the petrochemical and gas area (PGA) of the Central District of Asaluyeh County and in an urban area (UA) located in the Kaki District. A total of 270 boys and girls were recruited in January to April 2019. The ICP-MS was used for determination of the studied MLs. A multi-linear regression model was constructed to assess the effect of residence area on toenail ML levels. A significantly higher level of ΣMLs in toenail from the PGA was observed compared to the level in the UA (8.839 vs. 7.081 μg/g, β = -0.169 and p < 0.05). However, all of the 15 MLs studied were detected in the toenail samples from both study sites. Significant differences for the mean Cr (β = -0.563), Fe (β = -0.968), Mn (β = -0.501), Ni (β = -0.306), and Pb (β = -0.377) levels were found between toenail samples from the study areas (p < 0.05), with higher levels in the PGA. The results of this study suggest that children in industrial area are prone to a greater risk for ML exposures compared with those living in a non-industrial urban area.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish species of Iran: a review

Accumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in fish tissues is an important factor in monitoring the health and safety of aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, fish are important parts of aquatic food chains and play a significant role in human health. Considering the significant role of fish in the diet of humans and their ability to transfer and biomagnify HMs, it is necessary to determine and study these contaminants in fish tissues, especially in the edible parts of the fish. In addition to the other ecological and economic services of aquatic ecosystems, water bodies, especially the Persian Gulf in the south and the Caspian Sea in the north of Iran, are the main sources of seafood for people in nearby areas, as well as people living farther away who have gained access to seafood due to the extensive trade of aquatic organisms. This study provides an overview of the health conditions of the aquatic ecosystems in Iran by monitoring HM bioaccumulation in fish species. For this purpose, we reviewed, summarized, and evaluated papers published on HM concentrations in fish species from different aquatic ecosystems, including the Persian Gulf, the Caspian Sea, wetlands, rivers, qanats, water reservoirs, lakes, and dams, with emphasis on species habitats, feeding habits, and target organs in accumulation of HMs. Generally, the highest concentrations of HMs were observed in fishes collected from the Persian Gulf, followed by species from the Caspian Sea. Species inhabiting the lower zone of the water column and carnivorous and/or omnivorous species showed the highest levels of HMs. Moreover, liver was the main accumulator organ for HMs.

Metal Bioaccumulation in the Gill, Liver, and Muscle of Bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) From the Northeastern Mediterranean and Human Health Risk Assessment Associated with Their Seasonal Consumption

Heavy metals are continuously released into the oceans from both natural and anthropogenic sources. They are serious threats to both ecosystem and human health because of their toxicity, persistence, bioaccumulation, and biomagnification. We present metal concentrations in the economically important bluefish from Iskenderun Bay, providing valuable information on Northeastern Mediterranean aquatic ecosystem health, as well as the human health risk. The concentrations of manganese, iron, copper, zinc, selenium, cadmium, lead, and mercury were determined in the gill, liver, and muscle tissues of bluefish (Pomatomus saltatrix) caught in Iskenderun Bay (Turkey) during four seasons. Samples were analysed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. Fe and Zn were detected in the highest concentrations during all four seasons. The ranges of Fe concentrations were 61.15-108.76, 229.78-377.02, and 6.35-8.63 and those of Zn were 25.21-44.25, 42.25-76.08, and 6.27-13.59 in the gills, livers, and muscles, respectively. In contrast, Hg and Cd were not found in the bluefish tissues in any season with the exception of Cd in the gills during the spring (0.757 mg/kg, above the legal limit of 0.5 mg/kg). On a seasonal basis, no meaningful accumulation trend was observed for the muscles or gills, while the highest concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Se in the liver were found in the spring. Liver tissues possessed higher metal concentrations than gill and muscle tissues. Estimated daily and weekly intakes of the metals due to human consumption of the bluefish were considerably lower than the provisional tolerable intake. In this study, there was an inflow of metals into Iskenderun Bay; however, no significant metal accumulation was found in bluefish tissues at a rate that would harm human health.

Trace and Major Elements Concentration in Fish and Associated Sediment-Seawater, Northern Shores of the Persian Gulf

The concentration of 19 metal and non-metal elements in two fishes (Liza subviridis and Sphyraena jello) and associated sediment-seawater from the northern part of the Persian Gulf was measured. The samples were gathered from two industrial ports, one commercial port, and one residential port. The metal accumulation in the muscle and liver of fishes was evaluated. Nickel (mean 362.07-712.83 μg/g) and chromium (mean 470.00-691.47 μg/g) in sediment and zinc (mean 9.01-31.15 μg/L) and arsenic (mean 18.22-22.14 μg/L) in seawater had the most abundancy among studied elements. The accumulation of elements in S. jello (a pelagic species) was higher than L. subviridis (a demersal species). For both species, major elements of S and Mg and trace elements of Fe, Al, Si, Zn, and Cu showed highest accumulation. Also, fish samples from Emam Hassan Port were more contaminated than other stations. Ecological indexes values have revealed a low to moderate elemental pollution of sediment and fish samples in the north part of the Persian Gulf.

The concentration of the potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the muscle of fishes collected from Caspian Sea: A health risk assessment study

In the present study, the concentration of (potentially toxic element) PTEs in the five fish species from the Caspian Sea (from five coastal areas) was measured and compared. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and total THQ (TTHQ) were calculated using Monte Carlo simulations to determine the non-carcinogenic risk in both children and adults consumers. The highest concentration of PTEs was associated with chromium (Cr) measured in Cyprinus carpio, sampled from Bandar Anzali (1.56 ± 0.14 μg/g dw), and the minimum PTEs level was nickel (Ni) in Vimba from Astara (0.02 ± 0.01 μg/g d w). The rank order for PTEs based on THQ was mercury (Hg) > cadmium (Cd) > lead (Pb)> Ni > tin (Sn) > Total Cr. For adults, the fishes rank order based on TTHQ was: Cyprinus carpio (3.268) > Chelon saliens (2.89) > Rutilus frisii kutum kanesky (2.28) > Oncorhynchus mykis (1.39) > Vimba (0.25); and for children was Cyprinus carpio (15.25) > Chelon saliens (13.47) > Rutilus frisii kutum kanesky (10.63) > Oncorhynchus mykis (6.48) > Vimba (1.16). Overall this study showed that the levels of PTEs in investigated fish species had a potential non-carcinogenic risk for both children and adults (TTHQ>1).

Coal mine effluent-induced metal bioaccumulation, biochemical, oxidative stress, metallothionein, and histopathological alterations in vital tissues of the catfish, Clarias batrachus

In the present study, a multi-biomarker approach was used to assess the toxicity of the coal mine effluent (CME) generated at the Rajrappa coal mine on the catfish Clarias batrachus. A core of biomarkers indicative of nutritional value, oxidative stress, and histopathology was selected to illustrate the toxic effects of CME-containing different heavy metals and other toxicants. The results of metal bioaccumulation in CME-exposed fish tissues revealed the highest metal concentration in liver (1.34-297.68 mg/kg) while lowest in muscles (1.47-23.26 mg/kg) as compared to other tissues and so was the metallothionein level. The high value of bioaccumulation observed in liver, kidney, and gills reflects their affinity for metals. In addition, the values of metal pollution index (MPI) of different fish tissues further affirmed that liver followed by kidney and gills are at greater risk than brain, skin, and muscles. Significant alterations in the activity of certain enzymes (aspartate amino transferase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase) as well as oxidative stress markers (superoxide dismutase, catalase and lipid peroxidation) were detected in the tissues of CME-exposed fish. The tissue-specific metal accumulation and increased metallothionein levels may be associated with the biochemical and physiological activity of an organ and its constitutive antioxidant defenses. The histopathological changes in the various tissues of the CME-exposed fish justify the high metal accumulation and biochemical alterations. Overall results indicate that the Rajrappa coal mine effluent is very toxic having adverse health impact on the fish and might also affect the human health when consumed.

Metal Contents of Lake Fish in Area Close to Disposal of Industrial Waste

This research was conducted to analyze the content of Fe, Cu, Cd, Cr, and Pb in several species of fish taken from three lakes that are close to the disposal of industrial waste in Indonesia. The fish samples were taken from three lakes, namely, Muara Angke, Weda, and Morowali. The samples from Morowali were analyzed in April 2019, those from Weda from November to December 2019, and those from Muara Angke in June 2018. All the samples were then analyzed at the Chemistry Laboratory of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Science, University of Indonesia, and the Integrated Laboratory of IPB. The main results showed that all types of fish from Morowali and Weda were no longer safe to consume because they contained Fe, Cu, Cd, and Cr exceeding the threshold of metal contamination. Meanwhile, all types of fish from Muara Angke, except for ayam-ayam, are still safe for consumption. The results of this study can be a source of information regarding metal content in fish and fish feed for safe consumption. Given the high consumption rate of fish and the hazards of heavy metals on humans' health, such research must be furthered.

Potential health risks of metals in skin care products used by Chinese consumers aged 19-29 years

Metal contamination of skin care products that occurs during their production poses potential health risks, which are of increasing concern, to consumers. Here, we collected 570 responses to an online survey to analyze the usage pattern of skin care products across China. Then a total of 30 commonly used skin care products with various prices and applications were purchased. The concentrations of metals (Al, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cr, Pb, Hg, and Cd) and metalloid As, were determined. Next, we improved the frequency calculation method and used the weighted exposure frequency to calculate the dermal absorption dose (DAD). The amounts of Zn, Cr, and Al that were assimilated by the human body via uptake were approximately 2 orders of magnitude greater than those of Pb, Hg, Cd, Ni and metalloid As. In addition, younger consumers were at higher risk of metals exposure than older consumers because of their higher frequency of use of skin care products. Al and Zn posed higher risk to consumers because of its high DAD. There was no significant chronic non-carcinogenic health risk (hazard index < 1) posed by skincare product use.

Assessment of selected trace metals in fish feeds, pond water and edible muscles of Oreochromis mossambicus and the evaluation of human health risk associated with its consumption in Vhembe district of Limpopo Province, South Africa

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Fish from Luvuvhu River recorded lower levels of trace metals than those from commercial fish ponds.

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Edible muscles of Oreochromis mossambicus had higher concentrations of trace metals than pond water.

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Low and moderate bioaccumulation factor (BF<5000) was recorded for most of the metals.

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There is no potential non-carcinogenic health risks from consumption of Oreochromis mossambicus in the study area.

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Cancer risk is more likely to occur in children than in adult consuming fish from the study area.

Fish is a rich source of proteins for humans and is widely consumed in various places in the world. This study assessed the levels of twenty trace metals (B, Al, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Sr, Mo, Cd, Sn, Sb, Ba, Hg and Pb) in fish feeds (n = 2), water (n = 27), and edible muscles of Oreochromis mossambicus (n = 20 from 8 ponds) from fish farms and Luvuvhu River (n = 3 from 1 river site) in Vhembe district of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Physicochemical parameters of water in the study area were analysed. Temperature ranged between 21.4–30.47 °C, pH: 5.59–7.28, electrical conductivity: 608–1216 μS/cm, total dissolved solids: 156–675 mg/l, dissolved oxygen: 0.28 - 0.56 mg/l, turbidity: 3.92–356.7 NTU, respectively. Levels of most trace metals such as Cr (2 μg/l and 1000 μg/kg), Mn (100 μg/l and 500 μg/kg), Fe (10 μg/l and 300 μg/kg), Ni (20 μg/l and 100 μg/kg), As (50 μg/l and 3 μg/kg), Pb (10 μg/l and 300 μg/kg) and Cu (2 μg/l and 2250 μg/kg) in water and O. mossambicus muscles were mostly below the World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)/WHO and European Commission (EC) recommended limit in the collected samples (Tshifulalani site and Duthuni site). However, Cu and Fe recorded concentration above the recommended limit at the control site (Luvuvhu River) in water and O. mossambicus muscles, respectively. Results from the bioaccumulation factor (BF), suggests the presence of metals in the water which can bioaccumulate in the fish muscles. Most of the metals (As, Cd, Hg, Mo, Sr, Sb and Sn) that recorded no possible bioaccumulation also recorded levels that complied with their maximum permissible limit (MPL) of WHO, FAO/WHO and EC guideline values in the fish feeds except for Se and Co. Moderate bioaccumulation was recorded for Cr, Mn, Fe and Zn in some of the sampling sites. Pb and Ni showed extreme bioaccumulation (BF > 5000) in one of the sampling sites and also recorded elevated levels in the fish feeds. Average daily dose (ADD), hazard quotient (HQ) and total hazard quotient (THQ) computed were less than 1. The Cancer risk (CR) evaluated were all below 10⁻⁴ except in one site for children (Tshifulanani 2) but the overall average result showed no carcinogenic health risk to the consumers of the O. mossambicus. Therefore, O. mossambicus intake in the study area should be constantly monitored to prevent future health implications.

Use of biochemical markers to quantify the toxicological effects of metals on the fish Sciades herzbergii: potential use to assess the environmental status of Amazon estuaries

Enzymatic biomarkers, especially oxidative-stress enzymes, are useful for assessing the status of aquatic environments. The present study used biochemical markers determined in nervous, gill, and liver tissues of Sciades herzbergii, concomitantly with analyses of trace metals in the tissues and bottom sediment, to evaluate environmental quality in Amazon estuaries. The study was conducted from March 2014 to February 2016 in two areas: Caeté estuary in Bragança, state of Pará, which is relatively unimpacted; and São Marcos Bay, next to a harbor in São Luís, state of Maranhão. In the laboratory, the fish were weighed (g) and measured (cm). Fragments of the gills, the brain, and the liver were biochemically analyzed, and the metal contents in the brain, the liver, and the muscle tissues were determined. Turbidity was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in São Marcos than in Bragança. Specimens of S. herzbergii were smaller in São Marcos, and aluminum, iron, nickel, copper, cadmium, and mercury levels were higher in bottom sediment (p < 0.05) collected at this location. Fish from São Marcos contained significantly higher (p < 0.05) concentrations of aluminum, iron, and cadmium in the muscle tissue than fish from Bragança. In addition, fish from São Marcos had significantly higher concentrations of nickel in both the nervous and hepatic tissues. Only fish from São Marcos contained measurable concentrations of mercury in the liver and muscle. Fish from Bragança had copper concentrations in the liver significantly different from those captured at São Marcos (p < 0.05). The activities of gill glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) (F = 6.62; df = 1, 16; p < 0.05) and liver CAT (F = 10.22; df = 1, 16; p < 0.05) were higher in fish from São Marcos. However, ChE in brain tissues and lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the gills and liver did not differ significantly between fish from both areas. The physico-chemical conditions of the water and the concentrations of metals found in sediment and biological tissues, together with the biochemical responses of S. herzbergii in the study areas, indicate that this species is still tolerant to adverse environmental conditions, but the presence of metals is a risk to the health of fish, mainly to fish from São Marcos, especially if chronically exposed.

Impact of reservoir properties on elemental accumulation and histopathology of European perch (Perca fluviatilis)

This study was conducted on individuals of European perch from six reservoirs in Serbia with different properties, used for different purposes, and situated at different altitudes. Samples of muscle, gills, and liver, as well as water samples, were used for analysis of elemental accumulation. Histopathological (HP) analysis of gills and liver, and Fulton's condition factor (CF) were used as biomarkers. Analysis of Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, Li, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, S, Se, Si, Sr, and Zn was conducted by inductively-coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), and accordingly, metal pollution index and bioaccumulation factor (BAF) were calculated. Elemental accumulation varied considerably both among tissues and reservoirs. Reservoirs located on large low-altitude rivers were the most heavily polluted with metals (Međuvršje, on the Zapadna Morava River, and Lake Sava, on the Sava River). Of three tissues analyzed, the gills were most affected by pollution. The levels of Hg in muscle decreased with an increase in reservoir altitude. Specimens sampled from the highest altitude reservoir were the least affected by HP alterations; however, HP differences between the reservoirs were not statistically significant, and the severity of HP changes was generally low. No significant correlations between the elemental accumulation or HP indices with CF were observed.

Trace element concentrations, ecological and health risk assessment in sediment and marine fish Otolithes ruber in Oman Sea, Iran

This study aimed to investigate the concentration of Cd, Ni, Cr, Pb and As in the tissues of Otolithes ruber and surface sediments in the Oman Sea. Trace element concentrations were analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer (FAAS) for ecological and health risk assessment. The results showed a significant difference in trace element concentrations of the liver, muscle and sediments between different stations (p < 0.05). Potential ecological risk index (PER) indicated very high risk for Cd at all stations. Estimated daily intake (EDI) for consumption of Otolithes ruber for Cr, Pb and As was lower than tolerable daily intake (TDI). The mean target hazard quotient (THQ) of Cd and Ni were higher than 1 at all stations. Target cancer risk (TR) for Ni and As were higher than the acceptable value range at all stations. Accordingly, the risk of cancer due to the long-term consumption of this fish can be concerned.

Risk of heavy metal ingestion from the consumption of two commercially valuable species of fish from the fresh and coastal waters of Ghana

BACKGROUND

The need to evaluate the human health safety of fishery resources remain urgent in the mist of the ever-increasing fear of heavy metal toxicity from the consumption of Ghana's fisheries resource, as a consequence of pollution from several anthropogenic activities including artisanal gold mining. Nevertheless, the bigeye grunt (Brachydeuterus auritus) and Bagrid catfish (Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus) remain commercially valuable fish species in West Africa and continue to attract high patronage.

METHOD

Forty-five specimens each of C. nigrodigitatus and B. auritus collected from the Weija Dam and the Tema Fishing Habour in Ghana, between June and September 2016, were analysed for seven heavy metals using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry.

RESULT

Lead and Cadmium were below detection in all samples while Cu was not detected in B. auritus. Levels of the remaining metals (mg kg-1) were below FAO/WHO maximum permissible limits in fish and occurred in the rank order Se (3.5) > Zn (2.34) > Cu (0.59) > As (0.37) > Hg (0.19) in C. nigrodigitatus and Se (2.97) > Zn (2.28) > Hg (0.31) > As (0.21) in B. auritus. Only As in C. nigrodigitatus recorded Estimated Weekly Intake (EWI) greater than FAO/WHO Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI). Also, As in C. nigrodigitatus and Hg in B. auritus had Targeted Hazard Quotient (THQ) greater than 1 for individuals consuming the fishes on daily basis and therefore, raising concerns. However, for both species of fish, cancer risk of As was 1 in 10,000,000,000 and modified Health Benefits values of Se (HBVSe) were positive indicating the health risks that might accompany Hg exposure would be negated. Since toxicity depends on the concentration and quantity of a pollutant consumed, safe maximum consumption rate of C. nigrodigitatus based on As concentrations was 0.21 mg per day and that of B. auritus was 0.058 mg per day for Hg. With an average of 0.227 kg fish per meal of an adult human, these translated into not more than 24 C. nigrodigitatus and nine (9) B. auritus meals in a month but because fish is consumed at 0.0685 kg per person per day in Ghana, these values respectively translates to 93 and 30 safe days of consumption per month.

CONCLUSION

At the rate of 0.0685 kg fish per person per day that fish is consumed in Ghana, the consumption of the two species of fish in Ghana would essentially be of little or no consequence to consumers.

Trace elements in four freshwater fish from a mine-impacted river: spatial distribution, species-specific accumulation, and risk assessment

The concentrations of 16 elements (Mg, Al, Ca, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Cd, Ba, and Pb) were determined in four fish species (Carassius auratus, Squaliobarbus curriculus, Pelteobagrus fulvidraco, and Silurus asotus) collected in the Xiang River, a mine-impacted river in Southern China. The mean values of the elements analyzed in fish muscles were in the decreasing order of Mg > Ca > Zn > Fe > Sr > Al > Cu > Mn > Ba > As > Cr > Pb > Ni > V > Co > Cd. The concentrations of Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, and Cu in omnivorous species were found to be significantly higher (p < 0.05) than those in carnivorous species. Negative correlations observed between most element concentrations and fish sizes indicated the younger individuals accumulated more elements than the older ones. Principle component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis were employed to characterize the effects on element bioaccumulation using the element concentration matrix. The elemental profiles preferred to cluster according to differences in fish species rather than in sampling sites. The potential health risk evaluated through Monte Carlo simulation showed no appreciable adverse impact on human health from exposure to trace elements in fish muscles through consumption.

Determination of trace metals and analysis of arsenic species in tropical marine fishes from Spratly islands

Trace metal contents in 38 species of tropical marine fishes harvested from the Spratly islands of China were determined by microwave digestion and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. Arsenic species were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis. The average levels of Al, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Mo, Cd, Pb, and U in the fish samples were 1.683, 0.350, 0.367, 2.954, 36.615, 0.087, 0.319, 1.566, 21.946, 20.845, 2.526, 3.583, 0.225, 0.140, and 0.061mg·kg^-1, respectively; Fe, Zn, and As were found at high concentrations. The trace metals exhibited significant positive correlation between each other, with r value of 0.610-0.852. Further analysis indicated that AsB (8.560-31.020mg·kg^-1) was the dominant arsenic species in the fish samples and accounted for 31.48% to 47.24% of the total arsenic. As(III) and As(V) were detected at low concentrations, indicating minimal arsenic toxicity.

Effects on heavy metal accumulation in freshwater fishes: species, tissues, and sizes

Three fish species (Carassius auratus, Pelteobagrus fulvidraco, and Squaliobarbus curriculus) were collected from Xiang River near Changsha City, Southern China. The concentrations of heavy metals including arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) in the muscle, gill, and liver of three species were determined by the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry method. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was introduced to determine the significant variations (p < 0.05) of heavy metals. Livers were found to accumulate Cd and Cu due to the metallothionein proteins. High levels of Mn and Pb in the gills indicated that the main uptake pathway of these heavy metals was from the water. The carnivorous species, P. fulvidraco, was found to accumulate the highest levels of toxic elements (As, Cd, and Pb), while relatively high concentrations of nutrient elements (Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn) were accumulated in omnivorous species (C. auratus and S. curriculus). According to the results of Pearson's correlation analysis, there were few significant relationships at p < 0.01 level between the concentrations of the analyzed elements and the fish sizes. The results of risk assessment indicated that exposure to the toxic heavy metals from fish muscle consumption posed no non-carcinogenic health risk to local inhabitants.

Indicator bacteria community in seawater and coastal sediment: the Persian Gulf as a case

BACKGROUND

The aim of present work was to assess the concentration levels as well as vertical distribution of indicator bacteria including total coliform, fecal coliform, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Heterotrophic Plate Count (HPC) in the marine environment (seawater and coastal sediments) and evaluate the correlation between indicator bacteria and some physicochemical parameters of surface sediments as well as seawaters.

METHODS

A total number of 48 seawater and sediment samples were taken from 8 stations (each site 6 times with an interval time of 2 weeks) between June and September 2014. Seawater and sediment samples were collected from 30 cm under the surface samples and different sediment depths (0, 4, 7, 10, 15, and 20 cm) respectively, along the Persian Gulf in Bushehr coastal areas.

RESULTS

Based on the results, the average numbers of bacterial indicators including total coliform, fecal coliform, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa as well as HPC in seawater samples were 1238.13, 150.87, 8.22 MPN/100 ml and 1742.91 CFU/ml, respectively, and in sediment samples at different depths (from 0-20 cm) varied between 25 × 10³ to 51.67 × 10³, 5.63 × 10³ to 12.46 × 10³, 17.33 to 65 MPN/100 ml, 36 × 10³ to 147.5 × 10³ CFU/ml, respectively. There were no statistically significant relationships between the indicator organism concentration levels with temperature as well as pH value of seawater. A reverse correlation was found between the level of indicator bacteria and salinity of seawater samples. Also results revealed that the sediment texture influenced abundance of indicators bacteria in sediments. As the concentration levels of indicators bacteria were higher in muddy sediments compare with sandy ones.

CONCLUSION

Result conducted Bushehr coastal sediments constitute a reservoir of indicator bacteria, therefore, whole of the indicators determined were distinguished to be present in higher levels in sediments than in the overlying seawater. It was concluded that the concentration levels of microbial indicators decreased with depth in sediments. Except total coliform, the numbers of other bacteria including fecal coliform, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and HPC bacteria significantly declined in the depth between 10 and 15 cm.

Accumulation behavior and risk assessment of heavy metals and arsenic in tissues of white bream (Parabramis pekinensis) from the Xiang River, southern China

Aquatic environment suffered from serious heavy metal and As pollutions due to rapid industrialization and urbanization in the last decades. In order to evaluate the heavy metal and As contamination in aquatic organism in southern China, the levels of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb, and Zn in muscle, gill, and liver of white bream (Parabramis pekinensis) collected from Xiang River were analyzed. The statistically significant differences of the analyzed element concentration (wet weight) between tissues were determined through one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The liver presented high affinity for accumulation of Cd, Cu, and Zn due to the binding activity of metallothionein proteins. Mn and Pb mainly accumulated in the gill indicated the major uptake route through the gill. Lack of correlation between analyzed element and fish size might imply no or weak biomagnification of the analyzed elements in fish tissues. The potential health risk associated with exposure to heavy metals and As was evaluated. The uncertainty of target hazard quotient was calculated by Monte Carlo simulation. The results indicated that the analyzed element contents in the white bream muscle posed relatively low-chronic toxic risk to consumers.

A new bioindicator, shell of Trachycardium lacunosum, and sediment samples to monitors metals (Al, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, V, Co, Cr and Cu) in marine environment: The Persian Gulf as a case

BACKGROUND

The present work was designed to detect heavy metal contents of Al, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, V, Co, Cr and Cu in sediments and shells of the Trachycardium lacunosum collected in polluted and unpolluted areas along the Persian Gulf.

METHODS

The samples were taken from surface sediments (0-10 cm) and shells of Trachycardium lacunosum in two separated areas (polluted and unpolluted) in northern part of the Persian Gulf, Asaluyeh Bay, during summer 2013. The prepared samples were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES).

RESULTS

Based on the results, all measured metals including Al, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, V, Co, Cr and Cu were meaningfully higher in the sediment samples of polluted area compared to unpolluted area and the order of metal concentrations in the sediment samples were Cr > Co > V > Ni > Zn > Cu > Fe > Al > Mn in polluted area. In the case of shell samples of Trachycardium lacunosum, polluted area contained significantly higher contents of Al, Zn, Fe, Mn, Ni, Co, Cr and Cu compared to unpolluted area and the order of metal concentrations in the shell samples were Fe > Zn > Al > Mn > Cu > Cr > Ni > Co in the polluted area.

CONCLUSION

It was concluded that shells of the Trachycardium lacunosum can be used as a suitable bioindicator for heavy metals in the aquatic environment. Results confirmed that due to the possible contaminations by oil and gas activities near the polluted area perennial monitoring and mitigation measures is extremely necessary.

Data on copper level in the blood of patients with normal and abnormal angiography

In this data article, we measured the levels of copper in the blood of patients undergoing coronary angiography. The samples were taken from patients with cardiovascular disease in Bushehr׳s university hospital, Iran. Patients were divided in two groups: normal angiography and abnormal angiography. After the chemical digestion of samples, the concentration levels of Cu in both groups were determined by using inductively coupled plasma optical spectrometry (ICP-OES).

Data on metal contents (As, Ag, Sr, Sn, Sb, and Mo) in sediments and shells of Trachycardium lacunosum in the northern part of the Persian Gulf

In this data article, by using inductively coupled plasma optical spectrometry (ICP-OES), we aimed to (1) determine the concentration levels of As, Ag, Sr, Sn, Sb, and Mo in the sediments and the shells of Trachycardium lacunosum simultaneously in two separated areas (unpolluted and polluted areas) (2) comparison between the metal contents of sediments in the unpolluted and polluted areas as well as shells. Analysis of data showed that sediment as well as shell samples in polluted area contained significantly higher concentration levels of all measured metals compared with unpolluted area.

Data on heavy metals and selected anions in the Persian popular herbal distillates

In this data article, we determined the concentration levels of heavy metals including Pb, Co, Cd, Mn, Mg, Fe and Cu as well as selected anions including [Formula: see text] , [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] in the most used and popular herbal distillates in Iran. It is well known that heavy metals may pose a serious health hazard due to their bioaccumulation throughout the trophic chain ("Heavy metals (Cd, Cu, Ni and Pb) content in two fish species of Persian Gulf in Bushehr Port, Iran" (Dobaradaran et al., 2013) [1]; "Comparative investigation of heavy metal, trace, and macro element contents in commercially valuable fish species harvested off from the Persian Gulf" (Abadi et al., 2015) [2]) as well as some other environmental pollutions, "Assessment of sediment quality based on acid-volatile sulfide and simultaneously extracted metals in heavily industrialized area of Asaluyeh, Persian Gulf: concentrations, spatial distributions, and sediment bioavailability/toxicity" (Arfaeinia et al., 2016) [3]. The concentration levels of heavy metals and anions in herbal distillates samples were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS, Varian AA240, Australia) and a spectrophotometer (M501 Single Beam Scanning UV/VIS, UK) respectively.

Combining multivariate analysis and human risk indices for assessing heavy metal contents in muscle tissues of commercially fish from Southern Red Sea, Saudi Arabia

Jizan fishers are the major fish source for more than 1.5 million populations in the southern region in Saudi Arabia. Despite the overgrowing of various man-made activities in Jizan City, no recent study on environmental monitoring was reported. In the current study, heavy metals were quantified in muscle tissues of 12 fish species, as the most edible, from Jizan fisheries. Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used for quantification after microwave wet digestion. Acceptable recovery values (83.46-97.48%) for spiked fish samples with standard solutions were obtained. The following wide ranges of heavy metal concentrations (μg/g, wet weight) in studied fish species were recorded: V (0.004-0.561), Cr (0.013-0.477), Mn (0.073-0.128), As (0.002-0.935), Se (0.083-3.058), Sn (2.835-5.540), and Pb (0.150-0.386). Comparing with international permissible limits, lower levels were recorded in the current study. For total metal accumulation, the relationship between species was examined by cluster analysis, which showed that Epinephelinae was the farthest species from others. The principal component analysis shows one component indicating normal distribution of heavy metals in fish species. Different metal pollution indices (1.35-0.30), which shows the distribution of the total heavy metal concentrations in each species, were recorded. The hazard indices for muscle consumption were less than 1.0 for all studied metals at both ingestion rates except Sn which showed a marginal value of 28.9.