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Demirtaş Y, Topbaş M, Çamur D, Albay M, İlter H, Ayoğlu FN, Altın A, Can M, Parlak Somuncu B, Açıkgöz B, Aydın F. Heavy Metal and Trace Element Levels in Hair Samples from Fishermen in Turkey: The Fish/Ermen Heavy Metal Study (FHMS). Biol Trace Elem Res 2024; 202:34-45. [PMID: 37014497 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-023-03653-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Toxic chemicals from polluted seas can enter the human body through seafood consumption and cause health problems. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of selected heavy metals and trace elements among fishermen who frequently consumed seafood and controls who consumed seafood less frequently in four provinces on the shores of the Sea of Marmara, which is heavily polluted by industrial activities. Fourteen elements (antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel, selenium, strontium, vanadium, and zinc) were analyzed in hair samples using the inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer method. Levels of arsenic (0.147 ± 0.067 µg/g vs. 0.129 ± 0.070 µg/g, p = 0.025), chromium (0.327 ± 0.096 µg/g vs. 0.269 ± 0.116 µg/g, p < 0.01), nickel (0.469 ± 0.339 µg/g vs. 0.403 ± 0.368 µg/g, p = 0.015), strontium (1.987 ± 1.241 µg/g vs. 1.468 ± 1.190 µg/g, p < 0.01), and zinc (103.3 ± 43.1 µg/g vs. 92.7 ± 37.4 µg/g, p = 0.047) were higher in the fisherman group than in the control group. No difference was found between the groups in terms of other elements. The findings suggest that heavy metal-trace element contamination in the Sea of Marmara may increase the exposure levels of individuals to some chemicals through seafood consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuf Demirtaş
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Ordu University, Ordu, Turkey.
| | - Murat Topbaş
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Derya Çamur
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Gülhane Medicine, Health Sciences University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Meriç Albay
- Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin İlter
- Provincial Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ferruh Niyazi Ayoğlu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Altın
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Murat Can
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | | | - Bilgehan Açıkgöz
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Fatih Aydın
- Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
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Khaled R, Elabed S, Masarani A, Almulla A, Almheiri S, Koniyath R, Semerjian L, Abass K. Human biomonitoring of environmental contaminants in Gulf Countries - current status and future directions. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 236:116650. [PMID: 37479209 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116650] [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: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review aimed to evaluate the status of Human Biomonitoring (HBM) in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and provide recommendations for future research, considering the increased environmental contaminants that pose a threat to human health in this rapidly industrializing area. METHODS A thorough search was performed in PubMed and Web of Science databases up to February 2023 to identify biomonitoring studies on human exposure and levels in the GCC region. Two independent reviewers assessed study eligibility, conducted data extraction and risk of bias assessment. The NIH Quality Assessment Tools and PRISMA guidelines were utilized for quality evaluation and reporting of results. RESULTS A total of 38 eligible articles were included in this systematic review out of 662 articles screened. The majority of the publications were from Saudi Arabia (n = 24) and Kuwait (n = 10), while limited representation was found from Qatar (n = 3) and the UAE (n = 1). No articles were identified from Oman and Bahrain. The studies focused on metals, organohalogen compounds, pesticides, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and phthalates. The findings revealed elevated levels of metals and established correlations between metal exposure and adverse health effects, including infant neurodevelopmental issues, vitamin D deficiency, and oxidative stress. The presence of organohalogen compounds and pesticides was prevalent in the GCC region, with significant associations between exposure to these compounds and negative health outcomes. Notably, high levels of perchlorate were observed in the Kuwaiti population, and a study from Saudi Arabia found an association between per- and polyfluorinated substances and increased odds of osteoporosis. CONCLUSIONS This review emphasizes the need to address environmental health challenges in the GCC region through improved HBM research methods and strategies. Implementing biomonitoring programs, conducting cohort studies, investing in tools and expertise, promoting collaboration, and engaging the community are crucial for reliable HBM data in the GCC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raghad Khaled
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shahd Elabed
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Asmaa Masarani
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anfal Almulla
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Shamsa Almheiri
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rinsha Koniyath
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Lucy Semerjian
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Khaled Abass
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Sharjah Institute for Medical Research (SIMR), University of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates; Research Unit of Biomedicine and Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oulu, Finland.
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Singh K, Blechinger S, Pelletier L, Karthikeyan S, St-Amand A, Liberda EN, Chan HM. Characterizing variability in total mercury hair:blood ratio in the general Canadian population. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 224:115491. [PMID: 36791836 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115491] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES The body burden of mercury in humans can be measured through hair or blood biomarkers. To compare results from different studies, it is often required to convert mercury in hair to an equivalent level in blood, using a default hair:blood ratio of 250:1 by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, the actual ratio may vary within and between populations. The objectives of this study were to analyze the hair:blood mercury ratio in the general Canadian population, explore factors associated with higher/lower ratios, and determine if the standard ratio of 250:1 is supported. METHODS The Canadian Health Measures Survey (CHMS) Cycle 5 (2016-2017) measured total mercury (THg) in both hair and blood of 1168 participants 20-59 years of age. We calculated geometric mean (GM) concentrations of THg for this entire sample and subgroups. The subgroups included biological sex, women of childbearing age, race, hair treatments, categories of blood and hair selenium, urinary arsenobetaine/arsenocholine, categories of blood and hair mercury, and food consumption. We calculated a hair:blood ratio for each participant and determined population-level ratios from the GMs of the distributions. Differences by subgroups, and agreement with the WHO ratio of 250:1, were tested. The combined effect of factors on the THg hair:blood ratio was explored using staged regression analysis. RESULTS For participants with paired hair and blood mercury measurements, the GM of the hair:blood THg ratio was 293 (95%CI:273-316), and significantly >250. In women of childbearing age, the ratio did not differ from 250. The GMs of the ratio were higher (i.e.>300) for second tertile blood selenium (365, 95%CI:307-433), third and fourth quartiles hair mercury (347, 95%CI:308-390 and 376, 95%CI:336-422), and consumers of shellfish (338, 95%CI:308-371). Shellfish consumption was the only statistically significant factor associated with the hair:blood ratio as identified in the regression model. CONCLUSIONS The mean hair:blood THg ratio among Canadians generally exceeded the default ratio of 250:1. Higher ratios were observed in certain subgroups, such as seafood consumers, and shellfish consumption was the most important variable associated with the ratio. Our results suggest that population-specific hair:blood THg ratios be considered, if possible, when converting mercury levels from hair to blood to better characterize the variation around the conversion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kavita Singh
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Scott Blechinger
- Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Luc Pelletier
- Bureau of Chemical Safety, Food Directorate, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Subramanian Karthikeyan
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Annie St-Amand
- Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Eric N Liberda
- School of Occupational and Public Health, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Hing Man Chan
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada
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Zhang W, Li F, Gao L, Sun G, Cui Z, Chen F, Li P, Feng X, Shang L. Understanding the excretion rates of methylmercury and inorganic mercury from human body via hair and fingernails. J Environ Sci (China) 2022; 119:59-67. [PMID: 35934466 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2022.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Effective biomarkers are necessary to better understand the human mercury (Hg) exposure levels. However, mismatched biomarker sampling method causes extra uncertainty in assessing the risk of Hg exposure. To compare the differences between hair and fingernail, and further understand the excretion rates of methylmercury (MeHg) and inorganic mercury (IHg) via hair and fingernails, the total mercury (THg), MeHg, and IHg concentrations in paired hair and fingernail samples were investigated through paired samples collected from two typical mining areas, Wanshan mercury mine area (WMMA) and Hezhang zinc smelting area (HZSA). The positive correlation in THg, MeHg, and IHg concentrations (p <0.01) between hair and fingernail samples indicated that those two biomarkers can be corrected in application of assessing human Hg exposure. Compared to fingernails, the hair was suggested to be a more sensitive biomarker as the concentration of THg, MeHg and IHg were 2 ∼ 4 times higher than those in fingernails. Furthermore, the amounts of THg, MeHg, and IHg excreted via hair were 70 ∼ 226 times higher than that excreted via fingernails, and the hair plays a more important role than fingernails in the excretion of Hg from human bodies. Present study therefore provides some new insights to better understand the fate of human assimilated Hg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fen Li
- College of Tea (Pu' er), West Yunnan University of Applied Sciences, Dali 665000, China
| | - Lingjian Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangyi Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Zikang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Fengfeng Chen
- School of Public Health, Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution Monitoring and Disease Control, Ministry of Education, Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Ping Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Xinbin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Lihai Shang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550081, China.
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Koenigsmark F, Weinhouse C, Berky AJ, Morales AM, Ortiz EJ, Pierce EM, Pan WK, Hsu-Kim H. Efficacy of Hair Total Mercury Content as a Biomarker of Methylmercury Exposure to Communities in the Area of Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining in Madre de Dios, Peru. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:13350. [PMID: 34948962 PMCID: PMC8707462 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182413350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Total mercury content (THg) in hair is an accepted biomarker for chronic dietary methylmercury (MeHg) exposure. In artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) communities, the validity of this biomarker is questioned because of the potential for contamination from inorganic mercury. As mining communities may have both inorganic and organic mercury exposures, the efficacy of the hair-THg biomarker needs to be evaluated, particularly as nations begin population exposure assessments under their commitments to the Minamata Convention. We sought to validate the efficacy of hair THg for public health monitoring of MeHg exposures for populations living in ASGM communities. We quantified both THg and MeHg contents in hair from a representative subset of participants (N = 287) in a large, population-level mercury exposure assessment in the ASGM region in Madre de Dios (MDD), Peru. We compared population MeHg-THg correlations and %MeHg values with demographic variables including community location, sex, occupation, and nativity. We observed that hair MeHg-THg correlations were high (r > 0.7) for all communities, regardless of location or nativity. Specifically, for individuals within ASGM communities, 81% (121 of 150 total) had hair THg predominantly in the form of MeHg (i.e., >66% of THg) and reflective of dietary exposure to mercury. Furthermore, for individuals with hair THg exceeding the U.S. EPA threshold (1.0 μg/g), 88 out of 106 (83%) had MeHg as the predominant form. As a result, had urine THg solely been used for mercury exposure monitoring, approximately 59% of the ASGM population would have been misclassified as having low mercury exposure. Our results support the use of hair THg for monitoring of MeHg exposure of populations in ASGM settings where alternative biomarkers of MeHg exposure are not feasible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faye Koenigsmark
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA;
| | - Caren Weinhouse
- Oregon Institute of Occupational Health Sciences, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97239, USA;
| | - Axel J. Berky
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Ana Maria Morales
- Centro Nacional de Salud Intercultural, Instituto Nacional de Salud, Ministerio de Salud, Cápac Yupanqui 1400-Jesus María, Lima 15027, Peru;
| | - Ernesto J. Ortiz
- Duke Global Health Innovation Center, Duke University, 310 Blackwell Street, Durham, NC 27701, USA;
| | - Eric M. Pierce
- Environmental Sciences Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, 1 Bethel Valley, Oak Ridge, TN 37831, USA;
| | - William K. Pan
- Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, 9 Circuit Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
- Duke Global Health Institute, Duke University, 310 Trent Drive, Durham, NC 27710, USA
| | - Heileen Hsu-Kim
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA;
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Xie J, Tao L, Wu Q, Li T, Yang C, Lin T, Liu B, Li G, Chen D. Mercury and selenium in squids from the Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean: The distribution and human health implications. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:112926. [PMID: 34536705 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112926] [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: 08/01/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Squids are globally distributed. Hg-contaminated squids may have high risks on humans. With abundant Se (antagonistic effect on Hg), the risks can be reduced. We collected squids around the world (Northwest Pacific Ocean, Southeast Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean). Concentrations of Hg and Se were region-based and tissue-based. The higher content of Se were, the lower relative Hg levels were. The correlation between Se:Hg and Se was the strongest in the digestive gland. The values of Se:Hg and THQ all confirm that the health risk was lower in samples with higher concentrations of Se. Despite the risk assessment by Se:Hg, BRV and THQ analysis showed no risk when consumed in moderation, the maximum daily intake is provided based on Monte Carlo simulation. In future, when evaluating the risks cause by Hg exposure and providing the recommended daily amount, it may need to concurrent consideration of Se levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingqian Xie
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; Skate Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environment and Resources, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Ling Tao
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Qiang Wu
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- Zhejiang Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Technology Research for Fishery Resource of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan, 316021, China
| | - Chenghu Yang
- Zhejiang Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Key Laboratory of Sustainable Utilization of Technology Research for Fishery Resource of Zhejiang Province, Zhoushan, 316021, China
| | - Tian Lin
- College of Marine Ecology and Environment, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Bilin Liu
- College of Marine Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; The Key Laboratory of Sustainable Exploitation of Oceanic Fisheries Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Gang Li
- College of Marine Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China; The Key Laboratory of Sustainable Exploitation of Oceanic Fisheries Resources, Ministry of Education, Shanghai 201306, China.
| | - Duofu Chen
- College of Marine Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Shanghai 201306, China
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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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Wiech M, Djønne C, Kolding J, Kjellevold M, Ferter K. Targeted risk assessment of mercury exposure of recreational fishers: Are nephrops fishers in Norway at risk? ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:50316-50328. [PMID: 33956315 PMCID: PMC8445859 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14093-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Recreational fishers often consume their catch, which may expose them to environmental contaminants. However, targeted risk assessment for exceeding the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of a specific contaminant is often lacking, as specific data on the extent of fishing, consumption rates, and contamination of the caught seafood is needed. This study examined recreational fishing for nephrops (Nephrops norvegicus) at several different locations in Western Norway to identify important risk factors. The combination of a field survey to examine actual catches, interviews of recreational fishers about their seafood eating habits, and the analysis of total mercury (Hg, as a proxy for methylmercury (MeHg)) in recreationally captured nephrops allowed to conduct a targeted risk assessment. Recreational fishers consumed on average seven nephrops per meal, and 73% of the fishers ate nephrops once a month or more. The average Hg concentrations in nephrops were below the legal maximum level (100 ± 50 μg/kg wet weight (mean ± SD)). Hg concentrations in female nephrops were significantly higher than in males at the same size, and differed significantly between locations. The recreational fishers in this study were not at risk of exceeding the TWI for MeHg from consuming nephrops only; however, there is a general risk of exceeding TWI for MeHg as 70% of the fishers reported a frequent consumption of fish for dinner. Targeted risk assessments on recreational fishers may reveal particularly vulnerable populations where national dietary surveys may miss the highest seafood consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wiech
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway.
| | - Christine Djønne
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jeppe Kolding
- University of Bergen, P.O. Box 7800, NO-5020, Bergen, Norway
| | - Marian Kjellevold
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
| | - Keno Ferter
- Institute of Marine Research, P.O. Box 1870, Nordnes, NO-5817, Bergen, Norway
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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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Çamur D, Topbaş M, İlter H, Albay M, Ayoğlu FN, Can M, Altın A, Demirtaş Y, Somuncu BP, Aydın F, Açıkgöz B. Heavy Metals and Trace Elements in Whole-Blood Samples of the Fishermen in Turkey: The Fish/Ermen Heavy Metal Study (FHMS). ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 67:553-562. [PMID: 33284414 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-020-01398-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Selected heavy metal-trace element (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, Sb, Se, Sr, and V) levels were determined by the ICP-MS method in whole-blood samples of fishermen and control group who accommodate in four provinces of the Marmara Sea. Mercury (1.267 ± 1.061 µg/L to 0.796 ± 0.853 µg/L) and lead (17.8 ± 9.0 µg/L to 12.0 ± 6.83 µg/L) levels were higher in the fishermen group than that of control group (p < 0.001 for both). There was no difference between the fishermen group and the control group in terms of whole-blood levels of other elements. Total monthly fish consumption was 9340.4 gr in the fishermen group and 326.4 gr in the control group, and the difference between the groups was significant (p < 0.001). There was no difference between the groups in terms of having amalgam dental filling (p > 0.05). The results suggest that consuming high amounts of sea products caught from the Marmara Sea is a source for some heavy metals such as mercury and lead, which poses a public health risk. Unlike the control group, the positive correlation between arsenic, copper, and strontium levels and age in fishermen can also be evaluated as an indicator of chronic exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derya Çamur
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Gülhane Medicine, Health Sciences University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Murat Topbaş
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Hüseyin İlter
- Provincial Health Directorate, Ministry of Health, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Meriç Albay
- Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, İstanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ferruh Niyazi Ayoğlu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Murat Can
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Ahmet Altın
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Demirtaş
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Büşra Parlak Somuncu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Fatih Aydın
- Faculty of Aquatic Sciences, İstanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bilgehan Açıkgöz
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Bülent Ecevit University, Zonguldak, Turkey
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11
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Gutiérrez-Mosquera H, Marrugo-Negrete J, Díez S, Morales-Mira G, Montoya-Jaramillo LJ, Jonathan MP. Mercury distribution in different environmental matrices in aquatic systems of abandoned gold mines, Western Colombia: Focus on human health. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 404:124080. [PMID: 33142140 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2020.124080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) in water, sediments, macrophytes, fish and human health risks were analyzed and assessed from abandoned gold mining ponds (AGMPs)/ mining areas in Western Colombia to know its present environmental condition. Concentrations of THg in water (avg. 13.0 ± 13.73 ng L-1) was above the EPA threshold level (12 ng L-1), suggesting possible chronic effects. Sediment sample revealed that the ponds are methylated (%MeHg: 3.3-11). Macrophyte Eleocharis elegans presented higher THg content in the underground biomass (0.16 ± 0.13 µg g-1 dw) than in the aerial biomass (0.05 ± 0.04 µg g-1 dw) indicating accumulation of THg. MeHg was the most abundant chemical species in fish (MeHg/THg: 83.2-95.0%), signifying higher bioavailability and its risk towards human health. Fish samples (15%) indicate that THg were above WHO limit (0.5 µg g), particularly in Ctenolucius beani, Hoplias malabaricus and lowest in Sternopygus aequilabiatus and Geophagus pellegrini. Bioaccumulation and biomagnification of MeHg were higher in the carnivores representing a source of exposure and potential threat to human health. Fulton's condition factor (K) for bioaccumulation indicate a decrease with increasing trophic level of fishes. Overall results suggest, mercury species found in different AGMPs compartments should be monitored in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harry Gutiérrez-Mosquera
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Tecnológica del Chocó, Carrera 22 No.18B-10, Quibdó, Colombia; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Medellín, Carrera 87 No. 30-65, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | - Sergi Díez
- Environmental Chemistry Department, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, E-08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gladis Morales-Mira
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Medellín, Carrera 87 No. 30-65, Medellín, Colombia
| | | | - M P Jonathan
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calle 30 de Junio de 1520, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P.07340, Ciudad de México, México.
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12
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Wu Y, Xue J, Zhang C, Liang L, Wang Y, Wang D. A Study on Hair Mercury Levels of University Students. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2021; 106:160-164. [PMID: 32734359 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-020-02947-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were measured in hair of 98 Chinese university students to study their levels of Hg exposure and influencing factors. The results showed that Hg exposure for university students was at a low level with concentrations lower than the USEPA recommended reference level (1 µg/g) across all hair samples. The percentage of MeHg to THg (%MeHg) in hair was about 50%, lower than the previously reported value of 70-100%, probably associated with the low %MeHg in the diet of university students. Fish and rice consumption were not a primary factor affecting hair Hg levels of university students, while smoking could be one main pathway of Hg exposure. In addition, the similarly dietary structure in the studied university narrowed the difference of Hg exposure levels among students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yurong Wu
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinping Xue
- Department of Renewable Resources, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 2G7, Canada
| | - Cheng Zhang
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Liang
- Chongqing Industry Polytechnic College, Chongqing, 401120, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongmin Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dingyong Wang
- College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, People's Republic of China
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13
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Petrova MV, Ourgaud M, Boavida JRH, Dufour A, Tesán Onrubia JA, Lozingot A, Heimbürger-Boavida LE. Human mercury exposure levels and fish consumption at the French Riviera. CHEMOSPHERE 2020; 258:127232. [PMID: 32540539 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2020.127232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Humans are exposed to methylmercury (MeHg), a bioaccumulative neurotoxin, mainly through the consumption of marine fish. Several studies showed that high MeHg exposure can lead to neurological damage. This is particularly relevant for pregnant women, because MeHg exposure negatively impacts foetal development. Populations living near the sea are generally at increased exposure risk due to higher consumption of fish and seafood. Here, we present the first study of MeHg exposure levels of the population living at the French Riviera, using mercury (Hg) concentrations in hair as a proxy for MeHg exposure. We found that older people that consume more fish presented the highest hair Hg concentrations. Compared to other Mediterranean bordering countries and other European countries, the southern France population is among those with high MeHg exposure (median for women of childbearing age is 0.56 μg g-1). A global implementation of the Minamata Convention is necessary to lower MeHg exposure of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariia V Petrova
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Mélanie Ourgaud
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Joana R H Boavida
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France; Center of Marine Sciences (CCMAR), University of Algarve, 8005-139, Faro, Portugal
| | - Aurèlie Dufour
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Javier A Tesán Onrubia
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Aurelia Lozingot
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France
| | - Lars-Eric Heimbürger-Boavida
- Aix Marseille Université, CNRS/INSU, Université, de Toulon, IRD, Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) UM 110, 13288, Marseille, France.
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14
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Walker EV, Yuan Y, Girgis S, Goodman KJ. Patterns of fish and whale consumption in relation to methylmercury in hair among residents of Western Canadian Arctic communities. BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1073. [PMID: 32631282 PMCID: PMC7339417 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09133-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury contamination of the environment represents a substantial environmental health concern. Human exposure to methylmercury occurs primarily through consumption of fish and marine mammals. Heavily exposed subgroups include sport or subsistence fishers residing in Arctic communities. We aimed to estimate the association of fish/whale consumption patterns of Canadian Arctic subsistence fishers with the internal dose of methylmercury as measured in hair. METHODS This research was conducted within ongoing community projects led by the CANHelp Working Group in Aklavik and Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories and Old Crow, Yukon. We interviewed each participant using a fish-focused food-frequency questionnaire during September-November 2016 and collected hair samples concurrently. Methylmercury was measured in the full-length of each hair sample using gas chromatography inductively-coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Multivariable linear regression estimated beta-coefficients and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the effect of fish/whale consumption on hair-methylmercury concentrations. RESULTS Among 101 participants who provided hair samples and diet data, the mean number of fish/whale species eaten was 3.5 (SD:1.9). The mean hair-methylmercury concentration was 0.60 μg/g (SD:0.47). Fish/whale consumption was positively associated with hair-methylmercury concentration, after adjusting for sex, hair length and use of permanent hair treatments. Hair-methylmercury concentrations among participants who consumed the most fish/whale in each season ranged from 0.30-0.50 μg/g higher than those who consumed < 1 meal/week. CONCLUSIONS In this population of Canadian Arctic subsistence fishers, hair-methylmercury concentration increased with fish/whale consumption, but the maximum concentrations were below Health Canada's 6.0 μg/g threshold for safe exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily V Walker
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. .,School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
| | - Yan Yuan
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Safwat Girgis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Karen J Goodman
- Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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15
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Gonzalez DJX, Arain A, Fernandez LE. Mercury exposure, risk factors, and perceptions among women of childbearing age in an artisanal gold mining region of the Peruvian Amazon. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 179:108786. [PMID: 31605870 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2019] [Revised: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies from the Madre de Dios region of Peru report elevated mercury exposure among the general population. Our objective was to assess mercury exposure, risk factors, risk perceptions, and knowledge among women of childbearing age, a population of concern due to risks to infant and fetal health. We collected hair samples and administered a survey among 200 women aged 18-49 years residing in Madre de Dios. Hair total mercury (THg) concentrations were analyzed in accordance with EPA Method 7473. Associations between exposures and potential risk factors were analyzed using generalized linear mixed models. Geometric mean hair THg concentration (±standard deviation) for all participants was 1.62 ± 2.54 μg/g (range: 0.01-30.12 μg/g), and 67 participants (33.5%) had concentrations above the 2.2 μg/g reference dose established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Higher exposure was significantly associated with higher fish consumption (p = 0.03) and less mercury knowledge (p < 0.0001), but not with age or educational attainment. Most participants (86.2%) expressed concern about mercury contamination, but few (26.2%) had knowledge of the health risks associated with exposure. Many residents consumed fish species previously found to have low mercury concentrations, but more than 25% of participants reported consuming fish species with high mercury concentrations. We did not observe cross-sectional differences in fish intake among women who were pregnant or breastfeeding at the time of data collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J X Gonzalez
- Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources, Stanford University, 473 Via Ortega, Suite 226, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA; Centro de Innovación Científica Amazónica (CINCIA), Jr. Cajamarca Cdra. 1 s/n, Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, Peru.
| | - Aubrey Arain
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA; School of Health Sciences, Oakland University, 433 Meadow Brook Road, Rochester, MI 48309, USA
| | - Luis E Fernandez
- Centro de Innovación Científica Amazónica (CINCIA), Jr. Cajamarca Cdra. 1 s/n, Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios, Peru; Center for Energy, Environment and Sustainability, Wake Forest University, 1834 Wake Forest Road, Winston-Salem, NC, 27106, USA; Department of Global Ecology, Carnegie Institution for Science, 260 Panama Street, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
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16
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Azad AM, Frantzen S, Bank MS, Johnsen IA, Tessier E, Amouroux D, Madsen L, Maage A. Spatial distribution of mercury in seawater, sediment, and seafood from the Hardangerfjord ecosystem, Norway. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 667:622-637. [PMID: 30833261 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.02.352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Hardangerfjord is one of the longest fjords in the world and has historical mercury (Hg) contamination from a zinc plant in its inner sector. In order to investigate the extent of Hg transferred to abiotic and biotic ecosystem compartments, Hg and monomethylmercury (MeHg) concentrations were measured in seawater, sediment, and seafood commonly consumed by humans. Although total mercury in seawater has been described previously, this investigation reports novel MeHg data for seawater from Norwegian fjords. Total Hg and MeHg concentrations in seawater, sediment, and biota increased towards the point source of pollution (PSP) and multiple lines of evidence show a clear PSP effect in seawater and sediment concentrations. In fish, however, similar high concentrations were found in the inner part of another branch adjacent to the PSP. We postulate that, in addition to PSP, atmospheric Hg, terrestrial run-off and hydroelectric power stations are also important sources of Hg in this fjord ecosystem. Hg contamination gradually increased towards the inner part of the fjord for most fish species and crustaceans. Since the PSP and the atmospheric Hg pools were greater towards the inner part of the fjord, it is not entirely possible to discriminate the full extent of the PSP and the atmospheric Hg contribution to the fjord food web. The European Union (EU) Hg maximum level for consumption was exceeded in demersal fish species including tusk (Brosme brosme), blue ling (Molva dypterygia) and common ling (Molva molva) from the inner fjord (1.08 to 1.89 mg kg-1 ww) and from the outer fjord (0.49 to 1.07 mg kg-1 ww). Crustaceans were less contaminated and only European lobster (Homarus gammarus) from inner fjord exceeded the EU limit (0.62 mg kg-1 ww). Selenium (Se) concentrations were also measured in seafood species and Se-Hg co-exposure dynamics are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atabak M Azad
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway.
| | | | - Michael S Bank
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Department of Environmental Conservation, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, USA.
| | | | - Emmanuel Tessier
- CNRS/ Univ Pau & Pays Adour/ E2S UPPA, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux - MIRA, UMR5254, 64000 Pau, France
| | - David Amouroux
- CNRS/ Univ Pau & Pays Adour/ E2S UPPA, Institut des Sciences Analytiques et de Physicochimie pour l'Environnement et les Matériaux - MIRA, UMR5254, 64000 Pau, France
| | - Lise Madsen
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Department of Biology, University of Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Amund Maage
- Institute of Marine Research, Bergen, Norway; Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
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17
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Okati N, Esmaili-Sari A. Hair mercury and risk assessment for consumption of contaminated seafood in residents from the coast of the Persian Gulf, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:639-657. [PMID: 29052151 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-0432-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The health risks of mercury exposure due to the high consumption of aquatic were assessed for fishermen and non-fishermen families living on the Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr cities located in the coast of Persian Gulf (Iran). The mean hair mercury concentration of people in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr cities was obtained 1.56 ± 0.17, 1.97 ± 0.22, and 5.12 ± 0.3 μg g-1, respectively. Hair mercury concentration in 8.8% of people exceeded the no observed adverse effects level (NOAEL) of 10 μg g-1 declared by the World Health Organization (WHO). The fish and shrimps consumption, place of living, and fisher and non-fisherman family were variables that significantly effected on mercury levels in the hair. The effect of other factors (age, sex, and number of dental amalgam fillings) on hair mercury was not significant. The mean concentrations of mercury in three fish species in Mahshahr exceeded the recommended maximum standard level (0.5 μg g-1) set by the Joint Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA). The estimated weekly intake (EWI) for mercury in some fish species in Bandar Abbas, Bushehr, and Mahshahr was higher than the provisional tolerable weekly intake (1.6 μg kg-1 bw) set by European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for some groups. The significant positive correlation between daily mercury intake and hair mercury concentration of people (r = 0.64, P < 0.001) reasserts that the hair mercury concentration could be explained by fish consumption. HQ > 1 was obtained for women in child bearing age in fishermen families in Bandar Abbas and Bushehr cities, children in fishermen families in Bushehr, and for all groups of population except adult in non-fishermen families in Mahshahr. So, the limited consumption of some fish species for these groups of people is recommended. The maximum of allowable fish consumption rate was 0.70 meals/month for Pseudorhombus arsius from Mahshahr fish for women of child bearing age. Also, it is necessary to create and monitor and enforce environmental standards, preventing the entry of pollutants released into the marine aquatic environment without proper early treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Okati
- 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.
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18
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Okati N, Esmaili-Sari A. Determination of Mercury Daily Intake and Hair-to-Blood Mercury Concentration Ratio in People Resident of the Coast of the Persian Gulf, Iran. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2018; 74:140-153. [PMID: 28956097 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-017-0456-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to understand the mercury daily intake and hair-to-blood mercury ratio in fishermen and non-fishermen families in the coast of the Persian Gulf in Iran. The mean mercury concentration in the hair of fishermen and non-fishermen families was 5.76 and 2.27 μg/g, respectively. The mean mercury concentrations of RBCs were obtained for fishermen families and non-fishermen families: 35.96 and 17.18 μg/L, respectively. Hair mercury concentrations in 17% of people were higher than 10 μg/g, the No Observed Adverse Effects Level set by the World Health Organization. 78% of people had a blood mercury value > 5.8 μg/L, the standard level set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A significant correlation (r = 0.94, p = 0.000) was seen between log hair and RBCs mercury concentrations. The mean mercury daily intake for fishermen and non-fishermen families was 0.42 and 0.20 µg/kg BW per day, respectively. The mean mercury daily intake of fishermen families was higher than the provisional tolerable daily intake (0.23 µg/kg BW per day) suggested by the Joint Expert Committee on Food Additives. Mercury daily intake significantly correlated with fish consumption (r = 0.50, p = 0.000) and log hair mercury (r = 0.88, p = 0.000). The total mean of hair-to-blood mercury concentration ratio was 306. We conclude that the use of mercury concentrations in the hair and RBCs could have been suitable biomarkers for predicting mercury exposure of people with a high rate of fish consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Narjes Okati
- 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.
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Marcinek-Jacel M, Albińska J, Pawlaczyk A, Szynkowska MI. The impact of demographic factors, behaviors and environmental exposure to mercury content in the hair of the population living in the region of Lodz (central Poland). ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2017; 55:196-201. [PMID: 28898818 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2017.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2016] [Revised: 09/02/2017] [Accepted: 09/04/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was to access the influence of different factors such as sex, age, fish consumption, hair dyeing or smoking habit on the content of mercury in human hair samples. The research was carried on 444 samples (102 males and 342 females) collected from the population of people living in the region of Lodz (central Poland). The content of mercury in human hair samples was determined using the Mercury Analyzer MA 3000 (Nippon Instruments, Japan). The obtained results were elaborated using Statistica ver. 10.0 software. The mean value of mercury in investigated human hair samples was found to be 0.174±0.137mg/kg. We observed the statistically significant correlations (p<0.05) between the content of Hg in hair of the studied population and factors such as gender, age, and fish consumption. However, no statistically significant differences were found in relation to cosmetic treatment such as hair dyeing or smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Marcinek-Jacel
- Institute of General and Ecological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924, Łódź, Poland
| | - Jadwiga Albińska
- Institute of General and Ecological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924, Łódź, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Pawlaczyk
- Institute of General and Ecological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924, Łódź, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Iwona Szynkowska
- Institute of General and Ecological Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Lodz University of Technology, Żeromskiego 116, 90-924, Łódź, Poland.
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20
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Taylor DL, Williamson PR. Mercury contamination in Southern New England coastal fisheries and dietary habits of recreational anglers and their families: Implications to human health and issuance of consumption advisories. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 114:144-156. [PMID: 27595617 PMCID: PMC5219939 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.08.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury (Hg) was measured in coastal fishes from Southern New England (RI, USA), and Hg exposure was estimated for anglers and family members that consumed these resources. Fish Hg was positively related to total length (n = 2028 across 7 fish species), and interspecies differences were evident among legally harvestable fish. Many recreational anglers and their families experienced excessively high Hg exposure rates, which was attributed to the enriched Hg content of frequently consumed fishes. Specifically, 51.5% of participants in this study had Hg exposures exceeding the US EPA reference dose, including 50.0% of women of childbearing years. These results are noteworthy given that Hg neurotoxicity occurs in adults and children from direct and prenatal low-dose exposure. Moreover, this study underscores the need for geographic-specific research that accounts for small-scale spatial variations in fish Hg and dietary habits of at-risk human populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David L Taylor
- Roger Williams University, Department of Marine Biology, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809, USA.
| | - Patrick R Williamson
- Roger Williams University, Department of Marine Biology, One Old Ferry Road, Bristol, RI 02809, USA
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21
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Eqani SAMAS, Bhowmik AK, Qamar S, Shah STA, Sohail M, Mulla SI, Fasola M, Shen H. Mercury contamination in deposited dust and its bioaccumulation patterns throughout Pakistan. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 569-570:585-593. [PMID: 27372253 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.06.187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Revised: 05/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) contamination of environment is a major threat to human health in developing countries like Pakistan. Human populations, particularly children, are continuously exposed to Hg contamination via dust particles due to the arid and semi-arid climate. However, a country wide Hg contamination data for dust particles is lacking for Pakistan and hence, human populations potentially at risk is largely unknown. We provide the first baseline data for total mercury (THg) contamination into dust particles and its bioaccumulation trends, using scalp human hair samples as biomarker, at 22 sites across five altitudinal zones of Pakistan. The human health risk of THg exposure via dust particles as well as the proportion of human population that are potentially at risk from Hg contamination were calculated. Our results indicated higher concentration of THg in dust particles and its bioaccumulation in the lower Indus-plain agricultural and industrial areas than the other areas of Pakistan. The highest THg contamination of dust particles (3000ppb) and its bioaccumulation (2480ppb) were observed for the Lahore district, while the highest proportion (>40%) of human population was identified to be potentially at risk from Hg contamination from these areas. In general, children were at higher risk of Hg exposure via dust particles than adults. Regression analysis identified the anthropogenic activities, such as industrial and hospital discharges, as the major source of Hg contamination of dust particles. Our results inform environmental management for Hg control and remediation as well as the disease mitigation on potential hotspots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed Ali Musstjab Akber Shah Eqani
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China; Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSAT Institute of Information & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan.
| | | | - Sehrish Qamar
- Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSAT Institute of Information & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Syed Tahir Abbas Shah
- Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSAT Institute of Information & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sohail
- Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSAT Institute of Information & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sikandar I Mulla
- Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, PR China
| | - Mauro Fasola
- Dipartimento Scienze della Terra e dellAmbiente, Università, Via Ferrata 9, I-27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Heqing Shen
- Public Health and Environment Division, Department of Biosciences, COMSAT Institute of Information & Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan.
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22
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Al-Sarawi HA, Jha AN, Al-Sarawi MA, Lyons BP. Historic and contemporary contamination in the marine environment of Kuwait: An overview. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 100:621-628. [PMID: 26228067 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2015] [Revised: 06/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/23/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The rapid expansion of industry, along with previous pollution events linked to conflicts in the region, have led to a variety of contaminants being inadvertently or deliberately discharged into Kuwait's marine environment. These include polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and trace metals, from the petrochemical industry, and contaminated brine from the region's desalination industries. The present paper has reviewed over 60 studies that have reported the levels of contaminants, including PAHs, metals and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) present in seawater, sediment and representative marine organisms. Most of the reviewed literature confirmed that while Kuwait's marine environment has been subjected to a wide array of pollution events, the actual levels of contamination remains relatively low. However, sediment contamination hotspots associated with point sources of industrial contamination, such as originating from the Shuaiba industrial area, do exist at a number of locations around the coast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanan A Al-Sarawi
- Kuwait Environment Public Authority, P.O. Box 24395, Safat 13104, Kuwait; School of Biological Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| | - Awadhesh N Jha
- School of Biological Sciences, Plymouth University, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Mohammad A Al-Sarawi
- Department of Earth & Environmental Sciences, Kuwait University, Faculty of Science, P.O. Box 5969, Safat 13060, Kuwait
| | - Brett P Lyons
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Weymouth Laboratory, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
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23
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Moore ABM, Bolam T, Lyons BP, Ellis JR. Concentrations of trace elements in a rare and threatened coastal shark from the Arabian Gulf (smoothtooth blacktip Carcharhinus leiodon). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 100:646-650. [PMID: 26088541 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2014] [Revised: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Kuwait's waters are one of only two locations where the smoothtooth blacktip shark Carcharhinus leiodon is known to occur. Concentrations of 11 trace elements were analysed in five juvenile and two adult specimens of this coastal predator. Concentrations of lead in muscle increased with length, whilst manganese concentration decreased. Arsenic concentrations in muscle were among the highest reported in elasmobranchs, and the concentration in the liver increased significantly in relation to length. In comparison to published literature, concentrations of manganese (liver), lead (muscle) and iron (muscle and liver) were high. Mercury concentrations in the muscle exceeded European Food Safety Authority limits and were among the highest reported in any elasmobranch. Concentrations of selenium, which may inhibit mercury toxicity, were also high. These results and previous studies indicate that potentially hazardous levels of mercury and other contaminants may occur in sharks in this region, adding further stressors to these vulnerable populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alec B M Moore
- RSK Environment Ltd., Spring Lodge, 172 Chester Road, Helsby, Cheshire WA6 0AR, UK.
| | - Thi Bolam
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
| | - Brett P Lyons
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Weymouth Laboratory, The Nothe, Barrack Road, Weymouth, Dorset DT4 8UB, UK
| | - Jim R Ellis
- Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft Laboratory, Pakefield Road, Lowestoft NR33 0HT, UK
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24
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Cossaboon JM, Ganguli PM, Flegal AR. Mercury offloaded in Northern elephant seal hair affects coastal seawater surrounding rookery. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2015; 112:12058-62. [PMID: 26372960 PMCID: PMC4593100 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1506520112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potent neurotoxin that is biomagnified approximately 1-10 million-fold in aquatic carnivores such as the Northern elephant seal (Mirounga angustirostris), whose excreta and molted pelage, in turn, constitute a source of environmental MeHg contamination at the base of marine food chains. The potential for this top-down contamination is greatest in coastal areas with productive marine ecosystems that provide ideal habitats for large marine mammal colonies that can number in the thousands. This recycling of MeHg was evidenced by comparing total mercury (HgT) and MeHg concentrations in seawater, and HgT in molted pelage of M. angustirostris, at the Año Nuevo State Reserve pinniped rookery with concentrations at neighboring coastal sites in Central California. Seawater MeHg concentrations around the rookery (average = 2.5 pM) were markedly higher than those at the comparison coastal sites (average = 0.30 pM), and were as high as 9.5 pM during the M. angustirostris molting season. As a consequence, excreta and molts from this marine mammal colony, and presumably other marine predator populations, constitute a major source of MeHg at the base of the local marine food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Cossaboon
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, WIGS Laboratory, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064;
| | - Priya M Ganguli
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, WIGS Laboratory, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
| | - A Russell Flegal
- Department of Microbiology and Environmental Toxicology, WIGS Laboratory, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA 95064
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25
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Fard NJH, Ravanbakhsh M, Ramezani Z, Ahmadi M, Angali KA, Javid AZ. Determination of mercury and vanadium concentration in Johnius belangerii (C) fish in Musa estuary in Persian Gulf. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2015; 97:499-505. [PMID: 26117818 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2015.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2015] [Revised: 05/05/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The main aim of this study was to determine the concentrations of mercury and vanadium in Johnius belangerii (C) fish in the Musa estuary. A total of 67 fishes were caught from the Musa estuary during five intervals of 15days in the summer of 2013. After biometric measurements were conducted, the concentrations of mercury and vanadium were measured in the muscle tissue of fish using a direct method analyzer (DMA) and a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometer, respectively. The mean concentration of mercury and vanadium in the muscle tissue of fish was 3.154±1.981 and 2.921±0.873mg/kg w.w, respectively. The generalized linear model (GLM) analysis showed a significantly positive relationship among mercury concentration, length, and weight (P=0.000). In addition, there was a significantly negative relationship between vanadium concentration and fish length (P=0.000). A reverse association was found between concentrations of mercury and vanadium. Mercury concentration exceeded the allowable standards of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in J. belangerii (C).
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Affiliation(s)
- Neamat Jaafarzadeh Haghighi Fard
- Environmental Technology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 15794-61357, Iran.
| | - Maryam Ravanbakhsh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 15794-61357, Iran; Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Zahra Ramezani
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Ahmadi
- Environmental Technology Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz 15794-61357, Iran.
| | - Kambiz Ahmadi Angali
- Department of Biostatistics, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
| | - Ahmad Zare Javid
- Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran.
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26
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Endo T, Hayasaka M, Ogasawra H, Kimura O, Kotaki Y, Haraguchi K. Relationships among Mercury Concentration, and Stable Isotope Ratios of Carbon and Nitrogen in the Scalp Hair of Residents from Seven Countries: Effects of Marine Fish and C4 Plants Consumption. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0128149. [PMID: 26065892 PMCID: PMC4466346 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0128149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We analyzed the Hg concentration, and δ¹³C and δ15N values in the scalp hair of residents from seven countries; Vietnam, New Zealand, Spain, the USA, South Korea, Brazil and Japan. Relationships among the data in each country and among the seven countries were then examined. The highest Hg concentration as well as the highest or higher δ15N value in each country was found in the hair of a heavy marine fish-eater, whereas the lowest Hg concentration and δ15N value were found in the hair of a vegetarian or non (marginal)-fish eater. Hg concentrations were positively correlated with the δ15N values in each country, and increased markedly in samples with δ15N values exceeding 9.0 ‰, probably due to fish consumption. The highest Hg concentration could be found in sample, with a δ¹³C value between -19 and -18‰, probably reflecting the δ¹³C value of the marine food web.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Endo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, 1757 Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, 061–0293, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Moriaki Hayasaka
- Sapporo Higashi-Tokusyukai Hospital, N33-E14, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 065–0033, Japan
| | - Hideki Ogasawra
- Sapporo Higashi-Tokusyukai Hospital, N33-E14, Higashi-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido, 065–0033, Japan
| | - Osamu Kimura
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Health Sciences University of Hokkaido, 1757 Kanazawa, Ishikari-Tobetsu, Hokkaido, 061–0293, Japan
| | - Yuichi Kotaki
- School of Marine Biosciences, Kitasato University, Sagamihara, Kanagawa, 252–0373, Japan
| | - Koichi Haraguchi
- Daiichi College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Minami-Ku, Fukuoka, 815–8511, Japan
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27
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Vieira HC, Morgado F, Soares AMVM, Abreu SN. Real and potential mercury accumulation in human scalp of adolescents: a case study. Biol Trace Elem Res 2015; 163:19-27. [PMID: 25359702 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-014-0159-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/21/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Mercury (Hg) concentration in human hair is used to estimate methylmercury (MeHg) exposure and establish a reference dose for MeHg intake. In this study, Hg accumulation and MeHg intake were evaluated in relation to fish consumption habits in adolescents from two coastal areas: Angra do Heroísmo (Azores archipelago) and Murtosa (Portuguese mainland). Results showed that Hg concentration and MeHg intake increased with increasing fish consumption. In spite of that, Hg concentrations remained relatively low when compared with World Health Organization "no observed adversary effect level"; therefore, risk for mercury exposure should not be considered. Adolescents revealed a similar range of Hg concentrations (0.03-2.60 μg g(-1)) in scalp hair, apart from being exposed to natural or anthropogenic Hg source (Azores and Mainland, respectively). Nevertheless, Mainland volunteers generally exhibited higher values of Hg accumulation, being approximately 50 % of the results above 1 μg g(-1). Hg concentrations increased in both adolescent groups according to the weekly rate of fish meals, however, not linearly in the highest fish consumption rates. In fact, considering the adolescents' group having over one fish meal per week, the Hg bioaccumulation pattern found in the respective scalp hair suggests the ability of the human body to induce a self-protection response, probably mitigating Hg levels in the blood when experiencing increasing Hg exposure due to fish uptake. Actual and potential mercury levels in human scalp of adolescents probably diverge as fish consumption increases, the effective Hg uptake being lower than the expected, reducing risk to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Vieira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal,
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28
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Çamur D, Güler Ç, Vaizoğlu SA, Özdilek B. Determining mercury levels in anchovy and in individuals with different fish consumption habits, together with their neurological effects. Toxicol Ind Health 2014; 32:1215-23. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233714555393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
An increase in enviromental pollution may lead to mercury toxicity of fish origin due to the accumulative nature of methylmercury in fish. The main sources of human exposure to organic mercury compounds are contaminated fish and other seafoods. This descriptive study was planned to determine mercury levels in anchovy and in hair samples from individuals with different fish consumption habits, and to evaluate those individuals in terms of toxic effects. For that purpose, we analyzed 100 anchovies from the Black Sea and 100 anchovies from the Sea of Marmara, and assessed 25 wholesale workers in fish markets and 25 cleaning firm employees from both Ankara and Istanbul. Mercury levels in samples were measured using a cold vapor atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Participants were examined neurologically and mini mental state examination was applied to evaluate their cognitive functions. Mercury levels in fish were found to be below the national and international permitted levels. There was no statistically significant relation between mercury levels and the sea from which fish were caught. Hair mercury levels for all participants were within permitted ranges. However, hair mercury levels in both cities increased significantly with amount and frequency of fish consumption. A significant correlation was determined at correlation analysis between levels of fish consumption and hair mercury levels in the fishmongers and in the entire group ( r = 0.32, p = 0.025; r = 0.23, p = 0.023, respectively). Neurological examination results were normal, except for a decrease in deep tendon reflexes in some participants in both cities. There was no correlation between Standardized Mini Mental State Examination results and hair mercury levels. We conclude that establishing a monitoring system for mercury levels in fish and humans will be useful in terms of evaluating potential neurotoxic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Derya Çamur
- Environmental Health Department, Public Health Institution of Turkey, Ministry of Health, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Çağatay Güler
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Songül Acar Vaizoğlu
- Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Betül Özdilek
- Department of Neurology, Erenkoy Education And Research Hospital for Neurologic And Psychiatric Disorders, Istanbul, Turkey
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29
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Liu JL, Xu XR, Yu S, Cheng H, Peng JX, Hong YG, Feng XB. Mercury contamination in fish and human hair from Hainan Island, South China Sea: Implication for human exposure. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2014; 135:42-47. [PMID: 25262073 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2014.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 08/08/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Hair has long been recognized as a good biomarker for human exposure to Hg. The mercury concentrations in 14 species of marine fish and hair samples from 177 coastal residents in Hainan, South China Sea were investigated to assess the status of mercury exposure associated with marine fish consumption. Concentrations of total Hg (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) in the fish muscles were 0.094 ± 0.008 and 0.066 ± 0.006 μg/gww, respectively, which were far below the limit considered safe for consumption (0.5 μg/g). The average THg concentrations in hair of adults (1.02 ± 0.92 μg/g) were lower than the provisional tolerable weekly intake (PTWI) level of 2.2 μg/g. However, 23.7% of children had a hair THg level exceeding the RfD level of 1μg/g, indicating a great risk of Hg exposure to children via fish consumption. The concentration of THg in hair was significantly correlated with fish consumption but not with gender-specific fish intake. With higher fish consumption frequency, the fishermen had significantly elevated hair Hg levels compared to the students and the other general public, who had similar hair THg levels but different fish consumption patterns, indicating the existence of other sources of Hg exposure to the residents of Hainan Island.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin-Ling Liu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Xiang-Rong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China.
| | - Shen Yu
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Hefa Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Organic Geochemistry, Guangzhou Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Jia-Xi Peng
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Marine Bio-resources and Ecology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yi-Guo Hong
- State Key Laboratory of Tropical Oceanography, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510301, China
| | - Xin-Bin Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Geochemistry, Institute of Geochemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guiyang 550002, China
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30
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Malvandi H, Sari AE, Aliabadian M. Mercury contamination in Khramulia (Capoeta capoeta) from the Cheshme Kile and Zarrin Gol Rivers in Iran and human health risk assessment. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2014; 93:472-477. [PMID: 25085249 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-014-1335-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Total mercury concentrations were determined in muscle tissue of Khramulia (Capoeta capoeta) captured in the Cheshme Kile and Zarrin Gol Rivers, Iran. In Cheshme Kile River, 49 fish samples were collected. The mean total mercury concentration in the muscles of C. capoeta from this area was 249 ng g(-1) dw. In Zarrin Gol River, where 62 fish samples were collected, the total mercury in muscles averaged 164 ng g(-1) dw. A significant difference was found between means of mercury in the rivers (p < 0.001). All samples from the two rivers had mean mercury concentrations below the maximum allowable limits for mercury set by the Food and Agriculture Organization, World Health Organization, Standardization Administration of China and Environmental Protection Agency. The results of this study indicate that the values of hazard target quotient and estimated weekly intake are low and represent a negligible risk for human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Malvandi
- 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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31
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Shah AQ, Kazi TG, Afridi HI, Arain MB. A population assessment of mercury exposure from two cities of Pakistan with respect to freshwater and marine fish consumption. Toxicol Ind Health 2014; 32:1033-41. [DOI: 10.1177/0748233714545503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to estimate the level of mercury (Hg) in scalp hair samples of human subjects and its association with consumption of sea- and freshwater fish species. The scalp hairs were collected from both genders (male and female) aged between 15 and 50 years ( n = 200), living in coastal areas of Karachi, who mostly consumed sea fish species, referred to as exposed subjects. For comparison purposes, scalp hair samples of both genders ( n = 160) were collected from the inhabitants of Karachi and Hyderabad cities who consumed freshwater fish species termed as referent subjects. The frequently consumed fresh and marine fish species were also collected. The level of Hg was determined in fish and scalp hair samples by cold vapor atomic absorption spectrometry, prior to ultrasonic-assisted acid digestion in a mixture of nitric acid and hydrogen peroxide. The validity of methodology was checked by certified reference material (CRM) BCR 397 (human hair) and DORM-2. The concentrations of Hg in sea- and freshwater fish were found in the range of 1.47–2.09 and 0.402–0.676 μg/g, respectively. The exposed subjects had significantly elevated levels of Hg in scalp hair samples (1.8–4.3 μg/g) as compared to referent subjects (0.87–1.95 μg/g) ( p < 0.001). A significant positive correlation was obtained between the concentration of Hg in hair and age of study population. Exposed and referent female subjects had higher levels of Hg in scalp hair than that in males of both study groups ( p = 0.02–0.031).
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Qadir Shah
- Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan
| | - Tasneem Gul Kazi
- Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan
| | - Hassan Imran Afridi
- Centre of Excellence in Analytical Chemistry, University of Sindh, Jamshoro, Pakistan
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Zamani-Ahmadmahmoodi R, Alahverdi M, Mirzaei R. Mercury concentrations in Common Tern Sterna hirundo and Slender-billed Gull Larus genei from the Shadegan Marshes of Iran, in north-western corner of the Persian Gulf. Biol Trace Elem Res 2014; 159:161-6. [PMID: 24819088 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-014-0006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2014] [Accepted: 05/05/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We examined mercury levels in several tissues of Common Terns and Slender-billed Gulls collected from Shadegan Marshes of south-western Iran. In both species, total mercury content was highest in feathers followed by liver, kidney and muscle tissue. We found a significant correlation between mercury concentrations in kidney and breast feather (r=0.83, p<0.05), breast feather and liver (r=0.81, p<0.05) as well as liver and kidney (r=0.83, p<0.05). The contaminant levels in the feathers (11.53 and 15.32 μg/g in breast feather and tail feather, respectively) of Common Terns from Shadegan Marshes are higher than those reported for other tern species from elsewhere in the world, but feather mercury of Slender-billed Gull (6.61 and 5.35 μg/g in breast feather and tail feather, respectively) was similar to those reported for gull species worldwide. Mean values for mercury in the feather of two seabird species were higher than the levels known to cause adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rasool Zamani-Ahmadmahmoodi
- Department of Fisheries and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources and Earth Science, Shahrekord University, P.O. Box 115, Shahrekord, Iran,
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33
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Meng M, Li B, Shao JJ, Wang T, He B, Shi JB, Ye ZH, Jiang GB. Accumulation of total mercury and methylmercury in rice plants collected from different mining areas in China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2014; 184:179-86. [PMID: 24056187 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2013.08.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2013] [Revised: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 08/09/2013] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
A total of 155 rice plants were collected from ten mining areas in three provinces of China (Hunan, Guizhou and Guangdong), where most of mercury (Hg) mining takes place in China. During the harvest season, whole rice plants were sampled and divided into root, stalk & leaf, husk and seed (brown rice), together with soil from root zone. Although the degree of Hg contamination varied significantly among different mining areas, rice seed showed the highest ability for methylmercury (MeHg) accumulation. Both concentrations of total mercury (THg) and MeHg in rice plants were significantly correlated with Hg levels in soil, indicating soil is still an important source for both inorganic mercury (IHg) and MeHg in rice plants. The obvious discrepancy between the distribution patterns of THg and MeHg reflected different pathways of IHg and MeHg accumulation. Water soluble Hg may play more important role in MeHg accumulation in rice plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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Vieira HC, Morgado F, Soares AMVM, Abreu SN. Mercury in scalp hair near the Mid-Atlantic Ridge (MAR) in relation to high fish consumption. Biol Trace Elem Res 2013; 156:29-35. [PMID: 24178786 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-013-9849-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2013] [Accepted: 10/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential risk of mercury contamination near the Mid-Atlantic Ridge relating total mercury (THg) concentrations in the human scalp hair (n = 110) and high fish consumption levels. THg was quantified in human scalp hair, and volunteers were questioned about age, gender, and smoking habits being subsequently grouped in categories based on the individual average intake of fish meals per week. THg concentrations ([THg]) in hair samples ranged from 0.05 to 2.24 μg g(-1), and significant differences were found according to age (p < 0.05) and also among volunteers presenting different fish consumption rates (p < 0.001) being the highest [THg] observed on the adult population and also on volunteers that indicated consuming five or more meals of fish per week. Results indicate a pattern of increased mercury accumulation with increasing fish consumption. Despite mercury availability and a potential mercury intake of up to seven times, the WHO provisional tolerable weekly intake of mercury value, in consequence of high fish consumption, mercury concentrations in scalp hair are comparatively low regarding recommended levels by WHO.
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Affiliation(s)
- H C Vieira
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal,
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35
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Aldroobi KSA, Shukri A, Bauk S, Munem EMA, Abuarra A. Determination of arsenic and mercury level in scalp hair from a selected population in Penang, Malaysia using XRF technique. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2013.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Lin Y, Vogt R, Larssen T. Environmental mercury in China: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY 2012; 31:2431-2444. [PMID: 22887129 DOI: 10.1002/etc.1980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2012] [Revised: 06/03/2012] [Accepted: 07/06/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Mercury is a global pollutant that can be transported over long distances and can bioaccumulate. Currently, China is the country that contributes most to atmospheric Hg emissions and has the greatest intentional (industrial) use of Hg. Mercury in the Chinese environment is generally elevated, particularly in air and water bodies. Remote areas in China also show elevated Hg levels in air and water bodies compared to other rural regions in the world. Large river estuaries are often heavily affected by upstream industrial sources. Mercury is also elevated in sediments, a direct result of contamination in river systems. Regardless of the few heavily polluted sites, the urban environment in Chinese cities is comparable to that of other megacities in terms of Hg pollution, considering the size and rapid development of Chinese cities. Studies on Hg in fish showed generally low levels of contamination resulting from low bioaccumulation of Hg in the mostly short food chains. Mercury in rice has recently received increased research interest; elevated concentrations have been reported from rice grown in contaminated areas and may pose a threat to people dependent on such locally grown food. For the general population, Hg exposure from rice is, however, small. In addition, Hg hair concentration in the Chinese population showed generally low levels of exposure to Hg, except for people with special occupational exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Lin
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Oslo, Norway.
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37
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Hair mercury levels and food consumption in residents from the Pearl River Delta: South China. Food Chem 2012; 136:682-8. [PMID: 23122114 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2012.08.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2011] [Revised: 07/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The Pearl River Delta (PRD) is located in the Southern part of China and is the main region for fish culture in Guangdong Province. In order to assess the potential health risks associated with dietary consumption of mercury, hair samples from 91 urban, town and fishing village residents, 37 species of fish, cereal, vegetables, and meat samples were collected. The average total mercury (THg) and methylmercury (MeHg) concentrations in hair were 1.08 ± 0.94 and 0.58 ± 0.59 μg/g, respectively. Daily Hg intake via fish consumption is significantly correlated with THg and MeHg accumulated in human hair (r=0.48, p<0.01; r=0.43, p<0.01). The estimated daily intake of Hg via different food types showed that both fish and cereal consumption were the two main routes of Hg exposure for residents in the sampling areas. Besides food intake, smoking was also an important source for daily THg intake in the smoke group, contributing 11-18% to EDI of THg.
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Barghi M, Behrooz RD, Esmaili-Sari A, Ghasempouri SM. Mercury exposure assessment in Iranian pregnant women's hair with respect to diet, amalgam filling, and lactation. Biol Trace Elem Res 2012; 148:292-301. [PMID: 22419376 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-012-9384-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Our aim for carrying out this study was to estimate the levels of mercury in the hair of pregnant women and its association with fish consumption and amalgam fillings. From November 2007 to January 2008, 100 hair samples were collected randomly from three groups of pregnant women: Ahvaz in the south of Iran, Noushahr in the north, and the countryside of Noushahr. Significant differences were found in these three groups of pregnant women's samples (p>0.05). The mean mercury level in women's hair was found to be 0.37 μg/g (range, 0.11-3.57 μg/g). Only in 2 % of collected hair samples did the total mercury (THg) level exceed the United States Environmental Protection Agency-recommended 1.0 μg/g. In addition, there was a positive correlation of THg content in Ahvaz group's samples with respect to fish consumption (r=0.41, p=0.02) and a negative correlation of THg content in those who consumed vegetables and fruit. The level of education also played an indicating factor in this group. Moreover, significant association was found between the residence time and Hg concentration of women's hair samples collected from Noushahr (p>0.05). Similarly, the same correlations were found between hair mercury levels and the time since the first filling, number of dental fillings, pregnancy interval, and lactating period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandana Barghi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
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Behrooz RD, Esmaili-Sari A, Peer FE, Amini M. Mercury concentration in the breast milk of Iranian women. Biol Trace Elem Res 2012; 147:36-43. [PMID: 22161501 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-011-9283-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 11/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Human milk is usually the only source of food for infants during the first 4 to 5 months of their life. In this research, 80 human milk samples were collected from mothers in Tehran, Noushahr and the countryside of Tabriz, Iran, who were not occupationally exposed to mercury. The mean concentration of mercury in breast milk obtained from mothers in the countryside of Tabriz, Noushahr and Tehran was 0.86, 0.15 and 0.12 μg/L, respectively. There was a significant difference in mercury concentration in human breast milk between that from the countryside of Tabriz with that from Tehran and Noushahr. Only 3.7% of infant samples (three infants) had mercury concentration higher than normal versus the WHO recommended limit (0.5 μg g(-1)). The fish consumption of these mothers in Tehran and Noushahr was a factor that significantly affected the mercury concentration in their breast milk. Also, their age affected the mercury levels in breast milk (p = 0.04).
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Shirneshan G, Bakhtiari AR, Kazemi A, Mohamadi M, Kheirabadi N. Oyster Saccostrea cucullata as a biomonitor for Hg contamination and the risk to humans on the coast of Qeshm Island, Persian Gulf, Iran. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2012; 88:962-966. [PMID: 22526984 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-012-0607-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 03/17/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A total of 174 individuals of rocky oysters (Saccostrea cucullata) and 35 surface sediment samples were collected from seven stations off the intertidal zones of Qeshm Island, Persian Gulf, in order to study the concentration of mercury in oysters' tissues, and to investigate whether mercury concentrations in the edible soft tissues are within the permissible limits for public health. The average mercury concentrations were found as 3.44, 50.66 and 2.29 μg kg(-1) dw in the sediments, soft tissues and shells of the oysters, respectively. Results indicated that the levels of mercury in sediment differed significantly between the stations. In addition, results confirmed that the soft tissues of oysters could be a good indicator of mercury in the aquatic system. In comparison with food safety standards, mercury levels in oysters were well within the permissible limits for human consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golshan Shirneshan
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resource and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
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Sakizadeh M, Esmaeili Sari A, Abdoli A, Bahramifar N, Hashemi SH. Determination of polychlorinated biphenyls and total mercury in two fish species (Esox lucius and Carassius auratus) in Anzali Wetland, Iran. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2012; 184:3231-3237. [PMID: 21713472 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-011-2184-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2010] [Accepted: 06/08/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The Anzali Wetland is one of the most important ecosystems in the north of Iran, and parts of it were registered as a Ramsar site in 1975. However, even though, due to many problems, including eutrophication produced by inflow of excess nutrients and organic materials, the wetland was also listed on the Montreux Record indicating the need to take urgent remedial action. This study was conducted to study the levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and total mercury (THg) in two fish species (Esox lucius and Carassius auratus) as bio-indicators of the ecosystem condition in eastern part of Anzali Wetland. The sampling was carried out in six different periods between years 2009 and 2010. The results showed that the amounts of PCBs in the muscle of northern pike were below the detection limit of gas chromatography, whereas the average concentration in goldfish was 0.449 mg/kg wet weight. Some possible reasons for the higher levels of PCBs in goldfish in comparison with pike have been discussed. No significant (p < 0.05) correlation was observed between PCBs and biological factors (weight, length, lipid content) for both species. On the other hand, the mean concentration of THg in the muscle of pike and goldfish were 182.22 and 75.27 ng/g dry weight, respectively. Although these concentrations were below US-EPA criterion for human consumption (0.3 mg/kg), it pointed up a significant deterioration of the ecosystem condition during the past years. Finally, statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between THg with weight and an insignificant correlation with length for pike specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Sakizadeh
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Fang T, Aronson KJ, Campbell LM. Freshwater fish-consumption relations with total hair mercury and selenium among women in eastern China. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2012; 62:323-32. [PMID: 21713402 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-011-9689-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2010] [Accepted: 06/06/2011] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Wild fish from Qiandao Hu, a reservoir in the Zhejiang Province in eastern China, have increased mercury (Hg) concentrations exceeding the World Health Organization's (WHO) recommended guidelines. Due to the importance of freshwater biota in the local cuisine, dietary exposure to increased neurotoxic Hg is a concern in this region. An environmental hair-marker study was undertaken coincident with a cross-sectional epidemiologic study with 50 women age 17-46 years living in a Qiandao Hu fishing village. Diet, occupation, and other possible sources of Hg were recorded by way of questionnaires. Total mercury (THg) and selenium (Se) concentrations were measured in human hair samples and in important market fish species. Fish THg and Se concentrations were increased, with some fish concentrations >200 ng/g THg and 500 ng/g Se (wet weight [ww]). However, the average hair THg was low at 0.76 ± 0.51 μg/g dry weight, lower than the WHO's no observable-adverse effect level (50 μg/g), whereas the average hair Se was 1.0 μg/g. Hair THg concentration was positively associated with the average mass of fish consumed weekly, indicating that fish consumption is the main contributor to hair THg in this geographic area. The age-related hair THg trend was not linear but instead demonstrated a rapid increase in THg before age 25 years, followed by consistent concentrations in all ages after age 25 years. There was a positive correlation (p < 0.001) between molar Se and Hg in the hair samples, suggesting a possible antagonistic relation. This is the first study examining the relation between dietary Hg exposure and hair THg in an eastern China community where freshwater fish, as opposed to marine fish, dominates the cuisine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Fang
- School of Environmental Studies, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
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The relationships between fish heavy metal concentrations and fish size in the upper and middle reach of Yangtze River. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.proenv.2012.01.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Tabatabaie T, Ghomi MR, Amiri F, Zamani-ahmadmahmoodi R. Comparative study of mercury accumulation in two fish species, (Cyprinus carpio and Sander lucioperca) from Anzali and Gomishan wetlands in the southern coast of the Caspian Sea. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2011; 87:674-677. [PMID: 21956764 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-011-0413-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Anzali and Gomishan wetlands are considered as two of the most important wetlands in southern coast of Caspian Sea. To investigate mercury accumulation in these ecosystems, total mercury concentrations were measured in the muscle tissue of two fish species. Higher mercury concentrations were detected in C. carpio, an omnivorous benthic/pelagic species (Anzali wetland: 0.2 μg g(-1) wet weight; Gomishan wetland: 0.2 μg g(-1) wet weight), than in S. lucioperca, a carnivorous pelagic species (Anzali: 0.06 μg g(-1) wet weight; Gomishan: 0.15 μg g(-1) wet weight).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Tabatabaie
- Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Enginnering, Islamic Azad University-Bushehr Branch, Bushehr, Iran.
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45
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Gharaei A, Ghaffari M, Keyvanshokooh S, Akrami R. Changes in metabolic enzymes, cortisol and glucose concentrations of Beluga (Huso huso) exposed to dietary methylmercury. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2011; 37:485-93. [PMID: 21110088 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-010-9450-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, effects of dietary methylmercury (MeHg) on several blood biochemical parameters including GLU (glucose), LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and cortisol were investigated in the Beluga sturgeon (Huso huso). Beluga juveniles were fed for 32 days on four diets containing MeHg (control: 0.04 mg kg⁻¹; low: 0.76 mg kg⁻¹; medium: 7.88 mg kg⁻¹; and high 16.22 mg kg⁻¹ treatment). Significant increases (P < 0.05) were observed in all biochemical parameters, except ALP levels, which decreased significantly (P < 0.05) compared to the control group with either dose- or time-dependent effects. These results suggest that long-term dietary MeHg exposure may affect metabolic enzyme activity and glucose levels in Belugas. These findings provide useful information for environmental and fishery officials to apply in future decisions for managing fish resources in Caspian Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Gharaei
- Department of fisheries, International Hamoun Wetland Research Institute, University of Zabol, P. O. Box: 98615-538, Zabol, Sistan & Balouchestan, Iran.
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Rajaei F, Esmaili Sari A, Savabieasfahani M, Bahramifar N, Ghasempouri M. Liver and breast feather mercury in piscivorous birds of the Caspian Sea: monitoring changes. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2011; 86:521-4. [PMID: 21442207 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-011-0259-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2010] [Accepted: 03/16/2011] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Mercury in the liver and breast feathers of the Common Cormorant, and in three species of Grebes from the southern coast of the Caspian Sea, were determined. The Common Cormorant had significantly more mercury in its tissues (liver: 8.5 ± 1.5; feather 8 ± 1 mg/kg dry weight) than Grebes (Great Crested Grebe: 3 ± 0.5, 8 ± 1.5; Black-necked Grebe: 3 ± 0.5, 5.5 ± 1; Little Grebe 2.5 ± 0.5, 4 ± 0.5). Unlike Common Cormorants, Grebes had less mercury in the liver than in breast feathers. Mercury in the Common Cormorant was not different between 2002 and 2008 collections. The mercury threshold for adverse effects is currently 5 ppm, which was exceeded by all but Little Grebes in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Rajaei
- 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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Aliakbari A, Savabieasfahani M, Ghasempouri SM. Mercury in egg and eggshell of Whiskered Tern (Chlidonias hybrida) from Anzali wetlands of the Caspian Sea, Iran. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2011; 86:175-179. [PMID: 21113777 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-010-0155-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2010] [Accepted: 11/10/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Mercury content of egg and eggshell from Whiskered Terns of Anzali wetlands of the Caspian Sea were determined. Mercury levels in egg content of both abandoned (433 ± 4) and non-abandoned (459 ± 15) eggs were 150 times greater than eggshells. Eggshell thickness differed between non-abandoned (0.5 ± 0.03) and abandoned eggs (0.6 ± 0.5) (p < 0.001). No significant association was found between shell Hg and shell thickness in this study. There was significantly more Hg in egg content than in shell (p < 0.001). Mercury levels in eggs did not exceed the levels associated with adverse reproductive effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Aliakbari
- Tarbiat Modares University, School of Natural Resource and Marine Science, P.O. Box 46414-356, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
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Lincoln RA, Shine JP, Chesney EJ, Vorhees DJ, Grandjean P, Senn DB. Fish consumption and mercury exposure among Louisiana recreational anglers. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2011; 119:245-51. [PMID: 20980220 PMCID: PMC3040613 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.1002609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Accepted: 10/27/2010] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Methylmercury (MeHg) exposure assessments among average fish consumers in the United States may underestimate exposures among U.S. subpopulations with high intakes of regionally specific fish. OBJECTIVES We examined relationships among fish consumption, estimated mercury (Hg) intake, and measured Hg exposure within one such potentially highly exposed group, recreational anglers in the state of Louisiana, USA. METHODS We surveyed 534 anglers in 2006 using interviews at boat launches and fishing tournaments combined with an Internet-based survey method. Hair samples from 402 of these anglers were collected and analyzed for total Hg. Questionnaires provided information on species-specific fish consumption during the 3 months before the survey. RESULTS Anglers' median hair Hg concentration was 0.81 µg/g (n = 398; range, 0.02-10.7 µg/g); 40% of participants had levels >1 µg/g, which approximately corresponds to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's reference dose. Fish consumption and Hg intake were significantly positively associated with hair Hg. Participants reported consuming nearly 80 different fish types, many of which are specific to the region. Unlike the general U.S. population, which acquires most of its Hg from commercial seafood sources, approximately 64% of participants' fish meals and 74% of their estimated Hg intake came from recreationally caught seafood. CONCLUSIONS Study participants had relatively elevated hair Hg concentrations and reported consumption of a wide variety of fish, particularly locally caught fish. This group represents a highly exposed subpopulation with an exposure profile that differs from fish consumers in other regions of the United States, suggesting a need for more regionally specific exposure estimates and public health advisories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A. Lincoln
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - James P. Shine
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Donna J. Vorhees
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Philippe Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - David B. Senn
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zürich, Switzerland
- Address correspondence to D. Senn, Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland. Telephone: 41-44-632-78-86. Fax: 41-44-633-1193. E-mail:
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Salehi Z, Esmaili-Sari A. Hair mercury levels in pregnant women in Mahshahr, Iran: fish consumption as a determinant of exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 408:4848-4854. [PMID: 20655095 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2010.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Revised: 05/26/2010] [Accepted: 06/17/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
MeHg is a well-documented neurotoxicant even at low levels of exposure. Developing brain, in particular, is vulnerable to that. Through bioaccumulating to differing degrees in various fish species, it can have serious adverse effects on the development and functioning of the human central nervous system, especially during prenatal exposure. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate mercury concentration in hair samples of pregnant women living in Mahshahr located in Khuzestan province, Iran. It assessed the association between fish consumption and specific characteristics that can influence exposure. From April to June 2008, 149 pregnant women were invited to participate in this study. An interview administered questionnaire was used to collect information about age, body weight, height, fish (fresh, canned and shrimp) consumption, pregnancy stage, residence duration, education level, family income and number of dental amalgam fillings. The obtained results showed that the geometric mean and range for hair total Hg concentration was 3.52 microg/g (0.44-53.56 microg/g). About 5.4% of mothers had hair total Hg levels in excess of 10 microg/g. Maternal hair mercury level was less than threshold level of WHO (5 microg/g). As expected, there was a clear increase in hair Hg with reported fresh marine fish consumption (p=0.04). The highest mean for hair mercury level in a group who consumed fish several times per week, was 4.93 microg/g. Moreover, a significant effect of age and residential time on Hg concentration in the hair of the women was found. Pregnant women in Mahshahr consumed large amounts of fish; consequently, most of their offspring were prenatally exposed to moderately high levels of mercury. The results found suggest that pregnant women should decrease their fish consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Salehi
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, P. O. Box: 46414-356, Mazandaran, Iran.
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50
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Gharaei A, Mahboudi F, Esmaili-Sari A, Edalat R, Adeli A, Keyvanshokooh S. Molecular cloning of cDNA of mammalian and chicken II gonadotropin-releasing hormones (mGnRHs and cGnRH-II) in the beluga (Huso huso) and the disruptive effect of methylmercury on gene expression. FISH PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY 2010; 36:803-817. [PMID: 19821139 DOI: 10.1007/s10695-009-9356-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2008] [Accepted: 09/16/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Two gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) isoforms were identified in the beluga (Huso huso) brain by cDNA sequencing: prepro-mammalian GnRH (mGnRH) and prepro-chicken GnRH-II (cGnRH-II). The nucleotide sequences of the beluga mGnRH and cGnRH-II precursors are 273 and 258 base pairs (bp) long, encoding peptides of 91 and 86 amino acids, respectively. To investigate the effect of methylmercury (MeHg) on GnRH gene expression, animals were fed with four diets containing increasing levels of MeHg (0 mg kg(-1) [control]; 0.76 mg kg(-1) [low]; 7.8 mg kg(-1) [medium]; 16.22 mg kg(-1) [high]) for 32 days. The effects of MeHg on brain GnRH mRNA levels were evaluated by real-time PCR. A significant decrease in brain mGnRH and cGnRH-II mRNA levels were detected in fish receiving high dietary MeHg dose compared to controls on day 11 (P < 0.05). On day 18 and 32, all treatment groups had significantly lower brain mGnRH and cGnRH-II mRNA levels compared to the control group (P < 0.05). These findings demonstrate a disruptive role of MeHg on the level of brain mGnRH and cGnRH-II mRNAs in immature beluga.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Gharaei
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Natural Resources, Universityof Zabol, P.O.Box 98615-538, Zabol, Sistan & Blouchestan, Iran.
| | | | - Abbas Esmaili-Sari
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Marine Science, Tarbiat Modares University, Noor, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Rozita Edalat
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Adeli
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeed Keyvanshokooh
- Department of Fisheries, Faculty of Marine Natural Resources, Khorramshahr University of Marine Science and Technology, Khorramshahr, Khouzestan, Iran
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