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Rodrigues PDA, de Oliveira AT, Ramos-Filho AM, de Pinho JV, Neves GL, Conte-Junior CA. Human health risks assessment of the fluctuations in mercury levels in seafood from different key regions of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-33267-0. [PMID: 38607486 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33267-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) contamination on the Brazilian southeast coast has been highlighted, especially in relation to species of commercial importance. This study aimed to quantify the Hg concentration in species of mussels, fish, and crabs obtained from fishing colonies on the beaches of the west and south of the city of Rio de Janeiro, investigate the possible effect of seasonality, sex, and location sampling, and finally, the risk to consumer health in four different age groups. The difference between cooked and raw commercially available mussel samples was also verified. The main results highlight that the fish presented higher levels of Hg and that the mussel samples sold cooked presented lower levels of Hg when compared to the raw ones. For Micropogonias furnieri, Sardinella brasiliensis, and Callinectes spp., the season variable influenced Hg concentrations, while only for Merluccius merluccius was a difference between the sexes identified, with males having the highest values. Although Hg concentrations in animals were below the permitted limit, consumption of all species exceeded the monthly intake limit for this metal. For the hazard quotient (HQ) calculation, most species presented HQ > 1, especially when ingested by the child population. These results are fundamental for designing consumption strategies for these animals, in order to prioritize the acquisition of some species over others, depending on the location and/or season, for each age group, with the aim of maintaining seafood consumption with minimal risk to the population's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma de Almeida Rodrigues
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil.
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil.
| | - Adriano Teixeira de Oliveira
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
- Animal Morphophysiology Laboratory, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Amazonas (IFAM), Manaus Centro Campus (CMC), Manaus, AM, 69020-120, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Mendes Ramos-Filho
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
| | - Julia Vianna de Pinho
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Sanitary Surveillance (PPGVS), National Institute of Health Quality Control (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Lata Neves
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
| | - Carlos Adam Conte-Junior
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Sanitary Surveillance (PPGVS), National Institute of Health Quality Control (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Veterinary Hygiene (PPGHV), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Vital Brazil Filho, Niterói, RJ, 24220-000, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Food Science (PPGCAL), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Chemistry (PGQu), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941 909, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Biochemistry (PPGBq), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941 909, Brazil
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Mufakhir FR, Yoga GP, Darusman T, Lestari DP, Arriyadi D, Utami RR, Sumardi S, Astuti W, Prasetia H. Mercury risk assessment scenarios: exposure from fish dietary behaviors of Katingan River Basin community. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-17. [PMID: 38245837 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2303980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/22/2024]
Abstract
Katingan River has been contaminated by mercury from ASGM activities since the early 2000s. This study aims to assess the risk of mercury exposure from Katingan fish consumption and analyze relationships between exposure variables. We proposed two risk assessment scenarios based on mercury analysis of 74 fish samples and fish consumption questionnaire. The risk assessment result revealed that estimated daily intakes (EDIs) of Scenario 2 were generally 3-4 times higher than Scenario 1. The statistical test results showed significant differences (p < 0.05) in EDI values between scenarios, indicating that variations in fish consumption influenced the mercury intake. Three different health reference-based values (HRVs) were applied in estimating the hazard quotient (HQ) and it influenced the HQ results (p < 0.05), for both scenarios. The relationship analysis between variables presented a strong non-linear correlation between EDI and hair mercury level for both scenarios, but a weak relationship between age and hair mercury level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fika R Mufakhir
- Research Center for Mining Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), South Lampung, Indonesia
| | - Gunawan P Yoga
- Research Center for Limnology and Water Resources, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Taryono Darusman
- Research and Development Department, PT Rimba Makmur Utama, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Dwi P Lestari
- Research and Development Department, PT Rimba Makmur Utama, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Desra Arriyadi
- Research and Development Department, PT Rimba Makmur Utama, Bogor, Indonesia
| | - Rosetyati R Utami
- Research Center for Limnology and Water Resources, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Bogor, Indonesia
- Institute for Science in Society, Faculty of Science, Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Slamet Sumardi
- Research Center for Mining Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), South Lampung, Indonesia
| | - Widi Astuti
- Research Center for Mining Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), South Lampung, Indonesia
| | - Hendra Prasetia
- Research Center for Mining Technology, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), South Lampung, Indonesia
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Chen H, Cheng J, Li Y, Li Y, Wang J, Tang Z. Occurrence and potential release of heavy metals in female underwear manufactured in China: Implication for women's health. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 342:140165. [PMID: 37709063 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Underwear is a potential source of women's exposure to heavy metals owing to its direct contact with the skin, especially the skin of the vagina and vulva, which has a strong absorptive capacity. However, information regarding the prevalence of metals in female underwear, and its potential hazards, remains scarce. In the present study, we examined the concentrations and potential release of Cr, Co, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, Sb, and Pb in brassieres and briefs manufactured in China. We detected higher levels of Pb and moderate levels of other metals, relative to the metal levels reported for other textiles in the literature. Cu, As, Ni and Cd, had higher migration rates (MRs) from the underwear, with medians of 100%, 100%, 30.1%, and 20.7%, respectively. The median MRs of the other metals were in the range 1.07%-15.7%. On the whole, the total and extractable concentrations of these metals differed by item and fabric type. The pollution of raw materials and the use of chemical additives containing metals commonly contributed to the metals in the underwear. On the basis of the exposure estimation, the non-carcinogenic risks posed by the underwear metals were acceptable, but the carcinogenic risks from the metals in 5.18% of brassiere samples exceeded the acceptable level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanzhi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, T23 N73K, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Jiali Cheng
- National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, 100050, China.
| | - Yuan Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Yonghong Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Jiayu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Zhenwu Tang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology and Environment in Minority Areas (Minzu University of China), National Ethnic Affairs Commission, Beijing, 100081, China; College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing, 100081, China.
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López-González U, Riutort-Mayol G, Soler-Blasco R, Lozano M, Murcia M, Vioque J, Iriarte G, Ballester F, Llop S. Exposure to mercury among Spanish adolescents: Eleven years of follow-up. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 231:116204. [PMID: 37211180 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The toxic effects of mercury exposure on human health are a public health concern. The most important source of this exposure is the consumption of fish and marine mammals. This study aims to describe hair mercury concentrations and their evolution from birth until eleven years of age in adolescents from the INMA (Environment and Childhood) birth cohort study, and to assess the association of hair mercury concentrations at eleven years of age with sociodemographic and dietary factors. The sample comprised 338 adolescents from the sub-cohort of Valencia (in eastern Spain). Total mercury (THg) was measured in hair samples collected at 4, 9 and 11 years old and in cord blood at birth. The equivalent of hair for cord-blood THg concentrations was calculated. Fish consumption and other characteristics at 11 years old were collected through questionnaires. Multivariate linear regression models were conducted to explore the association between THg concentrations, fish consumption and covariates. The geometric mean of hair THg concentrations at 11 years of age was 0.86 μg/g (95%CI: 0.78-0.94) and 45.2% of the participants presented concentrations above the equivalent RfD proposed by the US EPA (1 μg/g). Consumption of fish such as swordfish, canned tuna and other large oily fish was associated with higher levels of hair mercury at 11 years of age. Swordfish had the highest effect with an increase of 125% in hair mercury (95%CI: 61.2-214.9%) given a 100 g/week increase in its consumption, and, taking into account the frequency of consumption, canned tuna was the main contributor to Hg exposure among our population. The hair THg concentrations at 11 years of age represented a reduction of around 69% with respect to that estimated at childbirth. Even though THg exposure shows a sustained decreasing trend, it can still be considered elevated. INMA birth cohort studies provide a longitudinal assessment of mercury exposure in a vulnerable population, its associated factors and temporal trends, and this information could be used to adjust recommendations about this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel Riutort-Mayol
- Foundation for the Promotion of Health and Biomedical Research in the Valencian Region, FISABIO-Public Health, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Raquel Soler-Blasco
- Department of Nursing, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Manuel Lozano
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Food Sciences, Toxicology and Forensic Medicine Department, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain
| | - Mario Murcia
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Servei de Planificació I Avaluació de Polítiques de Salut, Conselleria de Sanitat Universal I Salut Pública, Generalitat Valenciana, Spain
| | - Jesús Vioque
- Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain; Alicante Institute of Health and Biomedical Research, University Miguel Hernandez (ISABIAL-UMH), Alicante, Spain
| | - Gorka Iriarte
- Public Health Laboratory in Alava, Vitoria Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Ferran Ballester
- Department of Nursing, Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sabrina Llop
- Epidemiology and Environmental Health Joint Research Unit, FISABIO-Universitat Jaume I-Universitat de València, Valencia, Spain; Spanish Consortium for Research on Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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Rodrigues PDA, de Pinho JV, Ramos-Filho AM, Neves GL, Conte-Junior CA. Mercury contamination in seafood from an aquatic environment impacted by anthropic activity: seasonality and human health risk. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:85390-85404. [PMID: 37382820 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28435-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Petroleum activity and the dumping of domestic and industrial sewage are important sources of mercury (Hg) contamination in the aquatic environment. Thus, this article aimed to biomonitor the Hg concentration in fish, mussels, and swimming crabs of commercial importance in southeastern Brazil. The quantifications were carried out over a year to verify the influence of seasonality. Finally, a risk assessment was applied to identify whether the concentrations found could lead to long-term damage to the population. Our results indicate that the contaminations were higher in spring, summer, and winter than in autumn, mainly among fish and swimming crabs. The results of quantification in the animal and estimated monthly intake, despite being below the limit established nationally and internationally, were indicative of risk for these two animals after calculating the Hazard quotient. The highest risk values were attributed to the infant population. Based on the data generated by this work, the consumption of mussels is encouraged throughout the year, to the detriment of the other types of seafood studied, especially during summer, spring, and winter. Our work reinforces the importance of risk assessment for a more reliable understanding of the impact of contaminants in seafood on the population's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paloma de Almeida Rodrigues
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil.
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil.
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil.
| | - Júlia Vianna de Pinho
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- National Institute of Health Quality Control, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Sanitary Surveillance (PPGVS), National Institute of Health Quality Control (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Mendes Ramos-Filho
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Lata Neves
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
| | - Carlos Adam Conte-Junior
- Analytical and Molecular Laboratorial Center (CLAn), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Center for Food Analysis (NAL), Technological Development Support Laboratory (LADETEC), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-598, Brazil
- Laboratory of Advanced Analysis in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (LAABBM), Department of Biochemistry, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- National Institute of Health Quality Control, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, 21040-900, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Sanitary Surveillance (PPGVS), National Institute of Health Quality Control (INCQS), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21040-900, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Veterinary Hygiene (PPGHV), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Fluminense Federal University (UFF), Vital Brazil Filho, Niterói, RJ, 24220-000, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Food Science (PPGCAL), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
- Graduate Program in Chemistry (PGQu), Institute of Chemistry (IQ), Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), Cidade Universitária, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 21941-909, Brazil
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Al-Sulaiti MM, Al-Ghouti MA, Ramadan GA, Soubra L. Health risk assessment of methyl mercury from fish consumption in a sample of adult Qatari residents. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:617. [PMID: 37103641 PMCID: PMC10140118 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11194-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Fish constitutes an essential source of high-quality protein and is, at the same time, the source of exposure to many hazardous contaminants, namely mercury and methyl mercury (MeHg). This study aims at assessing the risk that MeHg poses to the health of adult Qatari residents through fish consumption. Data on fish consumption were collected using a self-administered online survey composed of three sections that collected information about the fish-eating patterns of the participants. The fish species that were reported to be consumed by ≥ 3% of the respondents were sampled and analyzed for their total mercury (T-Hg) content levels. MeHg concentrations were derived from T-Hg content levels using a scenario-based approach. Disaggregated fish consumption and contamination data were combined using the deterministic approach to estimate MeHg intakes. The average, 75th, and 95th percentiles of the MeHg intake estimates were determined and compared to the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) set by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) (1.3 μg·kg-1·w-1). All fish samples contained T-Hg at levels ˂ 0.3-0.5 µg/g with a mean value of 0.077 µg/g. The study population had an average fish consumption of 736.0 g/week. The average estimated weekly intakes of MeHg exceeded TWI for some fish consumers including females of childbearing age and those following a high-protein diet. Our study highlights the need to establish regulatory guidelines and dietary advice based on risk/benefit ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maetha M. Al-Sulaiti
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, State of Qatar
| | - Mohammad A. Al-Ghouti
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, State of Qatar
| | - Gouda A. Ramadan
- Central Food Laboratories, Public Health Department, P.O. Box 42, Doha, Qatar
- Agricultural Research Center, Central Laboratory of Residue Analysis of Pesticides and Heavy Metals in Food, Ministry of Agriculture, Giza, 12311 Egypt
| | - Lama Soubra
- Environmental Science Program, Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, Qatar University, P.O. Box: 2713, Doha, State of Qatar
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Asl AG, Nabavi SMB, Rouzbahani MM, Alipour SS, Monavari SM. Persistent organic pollutants influence the marine benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages in surface sediments of Nayband National Park and Bay, Northern Persian Gulf, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:30254-30270. [PMID: 36422775 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-24232-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Macroinvertebrate communities have been influenced by chemical substances, originated from petrochemical developments, that caused many problems in the marine biota. This study investigated the surface sediments of Nayband National Park and Bay (northern Persian Gulf) for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs) in terms of their distribution, source, and impacts on benthic macroinvertebrate assemblages. To this end, a total of 180 surface sediment samples from 20 stations were collected using Van-Veen grab sampler during winter 2018. The concentration of PAHs, TPHs, total organic carbon (TOC). and total organic matter (TOM) were evaluated, and grain size measurements were conducted on sediment samples in this study. Benthic macroinvertebrates were then identified in terms of presence and distribution. The results indicated that coarse granulometric fractions of sands were prevalence in all samples stations. The total concentration of PAHs ranged from 47.57 to 657.68 ng/g and TPHs 5.72 to 42.16 µg/g dw. The risk of ΣPAHs and TPHs in the sediments was relatively low to moderate according to the sediment quality guidelines. Analysis of the results revealed a significant negative correlation between ΣPAHs (R-value = - 0.917; P < 0.01), TPHs (R-value = - 0.849; P < 0.01) and macrofaunal abundance. Findings demonstrated that the species richness and abundance were at the lowest levels in stations where concentrations of PAHs, TPHs, TOC, and TOM were in the highest values, suggesting that these contaminants could negatively influence the benthic organisms in Nayband National Park and Bay. The results of correspondence analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) analysis showed that sedimentary habitats in Nayband National Park and Bay are being negatively affected by PAHs and TPHs, released from Pars Special Economic Energy Zone (PSEEZ). Moreover, the marine biotic index (AMBI) and Shannon-Weiner Diversity (H') results suggest that Nayband National Park and Bay can be classified as slightly to moderate polluted area. In conclusion, Northern Persian Gulf is significantly affected by oil industry developments and petrochemical activities. The unique ecosystem like Nayband National Park and Bay has been in a cautious status in terms of the PSEEZ pollutants and the levels of PAHs and TPHs concentration, warning that urgent environmental programs should be considered to protect the diversity and ecology of this valuable marine systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Ghanavati Asl
- Department of Environment, Ahvaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
| | | | | | - Sima Sabz Alipour
- Department of Environment, Ahvaz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Ahvaz, Iran
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Cegolon L, Petranich E, Pavoni E, Floreani F, Barago N, Papassissa E, Larese Filon F, Covelli S. Concentration of mercury in human hair and associated factors in residents of the Gulf of Trieste (North-Eastern Italy). ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:21425-21437. [PMID: 36269483 PMCID: PMC9938062 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-23384-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The Gulf of Trieste (Northern Adriatic Sea, Italy) is the coastal area of the Mediterranean Sea most highly contaminated by mercury (Hg) due to fluvial inputs from the Isonzo/Soča River system, draining over 500 years' worth of cinnabar extraction activity from the Idrija mining district (Western Slovenia). The aim of this research is to investigate the concentration of Hg in hair samples taken from the general population of the Friuli Venezia Giulia (FVG) Region coastal area, as a marker of chronic exposure to Hg. Three hundred and one individuals - 119 males and 182 females - were recruited by convenience sampling in Trieste in September 2021. An amount of approximately 100 mg of hair was collected from the occipital scalp of each participant to measure the respective Hg concentrations (expressed as mg/kg). Moreover, participants completed a self-report questionnaire collecting extensive socio-demographic and life-style information. A multiple linear regression analysis was employed to investigate factors associated with increased levels of Hg concentration in hair. A mean Hg concentration in hair of 1.63 mg/kg was found, slightly above the 1.0 mg/kg threshold recommended by the WHO for pregnant women and children, although still well below the no observed adverse effects level (NOAEL) of 10 mg/kg. Among respondents, 55.6% showed a Hg concentration in hair > 1 mg/kg, 22.9% > 2 mg/kg, and 2 participants exhibited Hg levels > 10 mg/kg. The adjusted mean hair Hg level increased in those subjects who reported a preference for shellfish/crayfish/mollusks (RC = 0.35; 95%CI: 0.16; 0.55), whereas it decreased in those who reported a preference for frozen fish (RC = -0.23; 95%CI: - 0.39; - 0.06). Though a risk alert for Hg exposure for coastal residents from FVG is deemed unnecessary at this time, it is recommended that pregnant women limit their ingestion of locally caught fish to < 4 servings/month.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cegolon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Public Health Department, University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisa Petranich
- Department of Mathematics & Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Elena Pavoni
- Department of Mathematics & Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Floreani
- Department of Mathematics & Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Nicolò Barago
- Department of Mathematics & Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisa Papassissa
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesca Larese Filon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefano Covelli
- Department of Mathematics & Geosciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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9
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Cegolon L, Mastrangelo G, Covelli S, Petranich E, Pavoni E, Larese Filon F. Occupational exposure to mercury from cinnabar enriched sand in workers of Grado Beach, Gulf of Trieste (North-eastern Italy, upper Adriatic Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114057. [PMID: 36170761 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Health and safety of occupations entailing extensive skin contact with cinnabar-enriched sand in beaches of Friuli-Venezia Giulia (FVG) Region (North-eastern Italy) have been questioned for possible skin absorption of mercury (Hg). One hundred mg hair was collected from the occipital scalp of 50 male workers of Grado beach and 121 males from FVG general population. Factors associated with hair Hg content were investigated by multivariable logistic (considering Hg levels >1 vs ≤1 mg/kg) and log-transformed linear regression. The median hair concentration of Hg in male beach workers was 0.70 (IQR = 0.42; 1.34) mg/kg, lower than FVG general population's [1.29 (IQR = 0.87-2.06) mg/kg (p < 0.001)]. In both regression models the hair Hg increased with fish consumption, both among beach workers of Grado and FVG general population. The mean Hg levels in beach workers of Grado fell within an acceptable range, not requiring restrictions of their occupational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Cegolon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy; Public Health Department, University Health Agency Giuliano-Isontina (ASUGI), Trieste, Italy.
| | | | - Stefano Covelli
- Department of Mathematics and Geosciences, University of Trieste, Via Weiss 2, 34128 Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisa Petranich
- Department of Mathematics and Geosciences, University of Trieste, Via Weiss 2, 34128 Trieste, Italy
| | - Elena Pavoni
- Department of Mathematics and Geosciences, University of Trieste, Via Weiss 2, 34128 Trieste, Italy
| | - Francesca Larese Filon
- Occupational Medicine Unit, Department of Medical, Surgical & Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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10
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Wang Q, Wang X, Wang Y, Hou Y. Evaluation and analysis of the toxicity of mercury (Hg 2+) to allophycocyanin from Spirulina platensis in vitro. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:76881-76889. [PMID: 35672637 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-21190-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
As a global environmental pollution problem, heavy metal pollution has brought great harm to human beings. In this work, we studied the toxicity of Hg2+ on allophycocyanin (APC) at the molecular level. Firstly, APC was extracted and purified from Spirulina platensis mud and its purity (A650/A280) reached 3.75. In addition, the fluorescence intensity of APC decreased with increasing Hg2+ concentration from 0 to 5 × 10-6 mol L-1. The theoretical calculation and experimental results showed that the fluorescence quenching of APC by Hg2+ was static and had a good linear relationship. Moreover, the UV-Vis spectra of APC showed a significant decrease at 200 nm and 650 nm with the increase of Hg2+ concentration from 0 to 5×10-6 mol L-1, and a red-shift at 200 nm, which indicated that Hg2+ not only affected the structure of APC but also affected the light absorption and photosynthetic function of APC. Furthermore, the results of molecular simulation demonstrate that Hg2+ combinations with the Met77, Cys81 in the α chain and the Arg77, Cys81 in the β chain, which interact between the peptide chain and the chromophore, and Hg2+ forms a Hg-S bond with -SH. This study provides new insights into the structure and how Hg2+ effect the optical properties of APC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanfu Wang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China
| | - Xingteng Wang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China
| | - Yatong Wang
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China
| | - Yanhua Hou
- School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai, China.
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11
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Ruan XY, Tan SW, Zhu L, Shi YP, Yu JM, Zhang MB, Wang TS, Fu H. A multiple and comprehensive approach to assess health risk in amalgam-exposed Chinese workers. Front Public Health 2022; 10:999095. [PMID: 36203661 PMCID: PMC9530277 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.999095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluorescent lamp manufacturing workers have been extensively exposed to mercury (Hg). Our aim was to assess their health risks using several approved occupational health risk assessment methods, and to find out which method was more suitable for identification of occupational health risks. Work locations, and air and urine samples were collected from 530 exposed workers in Zhejiang, China. Based on the calculated exposure doses, health risks and risk ratios (RRs) as health risk indices, were evaluated using: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Australian, Romanian, Singaporean, International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM), and Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) methods. Among the workers, 86.0% had higher Hg levels than the Chinese occupational exposure limits of 0.02 mg/m3, and 16.7% urine samples were higher than the biological exposure limits of 35.0 μg/g·creatinine. Among workers at the injection, etc. locations, their average RRs, evaluated by the EPA, COSHH and Singaporean methods were 0.97, 0.76, and 0.60, respectively, and were significantly higher than the ICMM (0.39), Australian (0.30) and Romanian (0.29) methods. The RRs from the Singaporean method showed significant correlations with the urinary Hg levels (P < 0.01). In conclusion, the Singaporean method was more appropriate than the others for health risk evaluation because the excessive risks were significantly associated with urinary Hg levels among the workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-ying Ruan
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Si-wei Tan
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yan-peng Shi
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jia-mian Yu
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mei-bian Zhang
- Department of Occupational Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China
| | - Tong-shuai Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Clinical and Translational Research Center of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,*Correspondence: Tong-shuai Wang
| | - Hong Fu
- Department of Occupational Health, Hangzhou Hospital for Prevention and Treatment of Occupational Disease, Hangzhou, China,Hong Fu
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12
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Rumiantseva O, Ivanova E, Komov V. High variability of mercury content in the hair of Russia Northwest population: the role of the environment and social factors. Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2021; 95:1027-1042. [PMID: 34694485 DOI: 10.1007/s00420-021-01812-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this work is to study mercury levels in the hair of different social and demographic groups of the population of the Vologda region in Northwest Russia. This region is selected due to a heterogeneous distribution of rivers and lakes-a resource base for fishing. METHODS The mercury content was determined in the hair from the root with a length of about 2 cm. The concentration of total mercury in human hair was determined by the atomic absorption method without preliminary sample preparation using an RA-915M mercury analyzer and a PYRO-915 + pyrolysis unit. RESULTS The average level of mercury in the human hair was 0.445 μg/g (median 0.220 μg/g). The concentration of mercury in the hair of people older than 44 years (0.875 μg/g) was three times higher than in the hair of children under 18 years of age (0.270 μg/g). People who eat fish less than once per month had a hair mercury concentration of 0.172 μg/g, for 1-2 times a month 0.409 μg/g, once a week 0.555 μg/g, and several times a week 0.995 μg/g. The concentration of mercury in the hair of smokers (0.514 μg/g) was higher than in the hair of non-smokers (0.426 μg/g). CONCLUSION Significantly higher concentrations of mercury were observed in the hair of participants from the western part of the region, where reservoirs are the main commercial sources of fish products. The data showed that the main source of people's mercury intake was fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Rumiantseva
- Department of Biology, Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russia, 162600.
| | - Elena Ivanova
- Department of Biology, Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russia, 162600
| | - Viktor Komov
- Department of Biology, Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russia, 162600
- Papanin Institute for Biology of Inland Waters, Russian Academy of Sciences, Borok, Russia, 152742
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13
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Xie Q, Wang Y, Li S, Zhang C, Tian X, Cheng N, Zhang Y, Wang D. Total mercury and methylmercury in human hair and food: Implications for the exposure and health risk to residents in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 282:117041. [PMID: 33838440 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.117041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Three Gorges Dam (TGD) is the largest hydroelectric construction in the world, and its potential impacts on the ecological environment and human health risks have invoked considerable global concern. However, as a mercury (Hg) sensitive system, limited work was conducted on the Hg exposure level of local residents around the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR). Thus, 540 human hair samples and 22 species of local food samples were collected to assess the Hg exposure and human health risk to the residents located in the Three Gorges Reservoir Region (TGRR) and to investigate their dietary exposure to Hg. The results showed that the geometric mean concentrations of total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) in hair were 0.42 ± 0.43 μg g-1 and 0.23 ± 0.32 μg g-1, respectively, lower than the reference level (1.0 μg g-1) recommended by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), indicating a low level Hg exposure for residents around the TGR. No significant difference in the accumulation of Hg in hair between the gender subgroups was observed, whereas age difference, smoking and alcohol drinking behavior, and fish consumption frequency were significant predictors of hair Hg level. Besides, THg and MeHg of all the investigated food samples did not exceed the corresponding Chinese national standard. The average probable daily intakes (PDIs) of THg and MeHg were 0.032 μg kg-1 day-1 and 0.007 μg kg-1 day-1, which were obviously below the recommended values of 0.57 μg kg-1 day-1 and 0.1 μg kg-1 day-1, respectively. The cereal (mainly rice) contribution of THg (76.0%) and MeHg (74.4%) intakes to the local residents around the TGR was much higher than that of fish (10.7% and 22.9%, respectively) due to the considerable rice consumption. Overall, residents around the TGR were at a low Hg exposure and rice consumption was the major pathway for Hg exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Xie
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yongmin Wang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Shouying Li
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xiaosong Tian
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Nan Cheng
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Yongjiang Zhang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China; Department of Environment and Quality Test, Chongqing Chemical Industry Vocational College, Chongqing, 401220, China
| | - Dingyong Wang
- Interdisciplinary Research Center for Agriculture Green Development in Yangtze River Basin, College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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14
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Malvandi H, Sarvary Korojdeh M, Azimi S. Assessment of Mercury Contamination in Perch Species in the Southern Caspian Sea. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2020; 79:147-155. [PMID: 32270210 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-020-00730-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a heavy metal that has caused concern regarding the health of fish and of those who consume them. In this research, the concentrations of mercury in the muscle tissues of zander and European perch from Anzali were measured using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometer (GFAAS). The average concentrations of mercury in the muscle of the zander and European perch were 244 and 105 µg/kg dry weight, respectively. A nonsignificant positive correlation between morphological parameters and mercury values was observed for both species (P > 0.05). The concentrations of mercury accumulated in the two fish species were lower than the values recorded in most similar studies, and were below the permissible limit provided by the National Iranian Standards Organization, FAO, WHO, US EPA, EC, and US FDA. In addition, the HQ value was less than one. Therefore, in general, this research indicates that exposure to mercury does not threaten the health of these species and their consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Malvandi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, 379 Post Box, Sabzevar, Khorasan Razavi, 9617916487, Iran.
- Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, P.O. Box 319, Sabzevar, Khorasan Razavi, Iran.
| | - Mina Sarvary Korojdeh
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, 379 Post Box, Sabzevar, Khorasan Razavi, 9617916487, Iran
| | - Somaye Azimi
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Hakim Sabzevari University, 379 Post Box, Sabzevar, Khorasan Razavi, 9617916487, Iran
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15
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Astolfi ML, Protano C, Marconi E, Massimi L, Piamonti D, Brunori M, Vitali M, Canepari S. Biomonitoring of Mercury in Hair among a Group of Eritreans (Africa). INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17061911. [PMID: 32183479 PMCID: PMC7143335 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17061911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Small-scale or artisanal mining, using gold-mercury amalgamation to extract gold from ore, is a significant source of exposure for the workers and nearby populations. Few studies on hair mercury (Hg) have been conducted in Africa despite the fact that Africa has several gold deposits. No studies have been conducted in Eritrea that is one of the emerging gold producing countries in Africa. The aim of the study was to assess the Hg concentration in hair samples (n = 120) of a population living in Asmara, capital of Eritrea, and to evaluate the influence of some factors on the Hg levels in hair. Information on age, height, weight, occupation, smoking and fish consumption of participants were collected via questionnaire. Hair Hg concentration was significantly higher among women compared to men (p < 0.001) and among women preparing spicy products in Medeber market compared to those who did other jobs (p = 0.010). These results highlight the need for routine biomonitoring surveys and for health promotion campaigns devoted to local decision makers and workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Luisa Astolfi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0649913384
| | - Carmela Protano
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Elisabetta Marconi
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Lorenzo Massimi
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
| | - Daniel Piamonti
- Department of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nephrology, Anaesthesiology and Geriatric Science, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, I-00161 Rome, Italy; (D.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Brunori
- Department of Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Nephrology, Anaesthesiology and Geriatric Science, Sapienza University, Viale del Policlinico 155, I-00161 Rome, Italy; (D.P.); (M.B.)
| | - Matteo Vitali
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (C.P.); (E.M.); (M.V.)
| | - Silvia Canepari
- Department of Chemistry, Sapienza University, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, I-00185 Rome, Italy; (L.M.); (S.C.)
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16
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Rahmanikhah Z, Esmaili-Sari A, Bahramifar N. Total mercury and methylmercury concentrations in native and invasive fish species in Shadegan International Wetland, Iran, and health risk assessment. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:6765-6773. [PMID: 31960239 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07218-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Human exposure to mercury (Hg) mainly occurs through consumption of aquatics, especially fish. In aquatic systems, the bioaccumulation of Hg across trophic levels could be altered by invasive species through changing community composition. The present study is aimed at measuring total mercury (T-Hg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations in non-native (redbelly tilapia (Tilapia zillii)) and native (Benni (Mesopotamichthys sharpeyi) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio)) fish species throughout Shadegan International Wetland and comparing health risk of their mercury contents to the local population. The concentrations were measured using a direct mercury analyzer (DMA 80). The average values of T-Hg and MeHg for native fishes were 19.8 and 10.49 μg/kg. These concentrations for the invasive fish were 28 and 14.62 μg/kg respectively. Despite having less length and weight than the native fish species, tilapia showed significantly higher T-Hg content, yet the lowest concentration of MeHg was observed in common carp with larger body length and weight. Concerning mercury health risk to consumers, tilapia demonstrated the highest estimated weekly intake (EWI) and percentages of tolerable weekly intake (%TWI) for both T-Hg and MeHg, while the highest hazard quotient (HQ) values were obtained for tilapia and Benni. Taken together, the mercury concentrations in the two native and non-native fishes were acceptable according to the international safety guidelines although the local people shall be warned for consumption of tilapia. Furthermore, the low calculated value of tissue residue criterion (TRC) for the wetland fishes sounds a warning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahedeh Rahmanikhah
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran.
| | - Abbas Esmaili-Sari
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran.
| | - Nader Bahramifar
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
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