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The rivers are severely contaminated by human activities due to its massive outflow and industrial effluents. Three economically significant fish species Sperata seenghala, Wallago attu, and Cyprinus carpio from the river water were selected for the assessment of heavy metals (HMs). The edible part of the collected fish from the river sampling sites were analyzed to determine the metal concentrations and potential health risks to humans. The Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) technique was used to measure HMs including lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), and copper (Cu) for both water and fish samples. Order of HMs in the fish was found as Pb > Cd > Cr. Levels of HMs in all species were found higher than the European Commission (EC) recommended acceptable levels. The metal pollution index (MPI) indicates that W. attu and S. seenghala, two highly consumed fish species, have accumulated HMs in higher concentrations. Wallago attu has the highest bioaccumulation factor (BAF) for both Pb and Cd permissible levels. For adult and children, the Hazard Index (HI) and Targeted Hazard Quotient (THQ) values were less than 1, which indicated that there would be no non-carcinogenic health consequences. Carcinogenic risk (CR) exposure to Pb, Cd, and Cr for all consumers was found to be higher than the permitted limit (10−6-10−4), while children were found more vulnerable than adults in terms of CR values. The study findings identified several sources of contaminants in the area, including agricultural waste, lubricant usage, and electroplating material production dumping near into the river water. Based on the results of the analysis, metal concentrations exceeded the thresholds for carcinogenic health risks, indicating that fish from the area are generally unsafe to consume. Therefore, immediate action must be taken to reduce or prevent the discharge of contaminants into the river. Additionally, regular monitoring of the river's water quality should be conducted to control the contamination of water.

Groundwater quality assessment in the region of potential pollution sources can be performed through the use of index-based methods. The aim of this paper was to present the results of the groundwater quality assessment in the region of the zinc smelter in Miasteczko Śląskie (southern Poland) for the Quaternary aquifer based on monitoring data from 2000, 2011, and 2022. The following parameters were used in the analysis: Pb, Cd, Ni, Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn. Three indices were calculated, i.e., the landfill water pollution index (LWPI), heavy metal pollution index (HPI), and metal index (MI). The values of the indicators suggest that in the described study area, there are waters that are under the strong influence of the zinc smelter infrastructure and landfills. The highest values obtained are about 17 for LWPI, about 66 for HPI, and about 133 for MI. These values indicate significant anthropogenic pollution of the groundwater of the Quaternary aquifer in the study area. Taking into account the values obtained for all three indices, it can be concluded that the HPI indicator is the least reliable due to the need to select two limit values (background and ideal content in waters for each of the parameters), which would suggest that in some cases, waters are not very contaminated. The other two indices show similarities (mainly in their spatial distribution), and only the choice of parameters determines which of the indices should be used. A comparison of the results of local groundwater quality monitoring with the results of the calculated indices indicate that the values of the calculated MI indices are closest to the actual water quality status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was executed to investigate the acidification and heavy metal (Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb) pollution of Tohma stream flowing near Kangal lignite-fired thermal power plant located in Kangal district of Sivas province in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. All water samples were screened for pH to evaluate the acidification of the Tohma stream. Water samples were found in moderately alkaline according to pH values (8.1–8.7). The average concentrations of Cr, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn and Pb in water samples from the Tohma stream were determined as 0.94, 2.27, 13.78, 1.24, 1.98, 0.32 and 0.54 mg L−1 using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, respectively. Metal pollution index (MPI) and metal evaluation index (MEI) were estimated to evaluate the pollution of Tohma water samples with heavy metals. The values of MPI and MEI varied from 312 (medium pollution) to 9715 (high pollution) with an average of 4713 (high pollution) and 181(medium pollution) to 317 (high pollution) with an average of 226 (medium pollution), respectively. The results of MPI and MEI revealed that investigated water samples are seriously polluted with toxic heavy metals and inadequate for drinking and irrigation water utilisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a RAMSAR site (no.1204), Ashtamudi Lake has very productive and significant ecosystem services. Currently, the lake is being threatened by severe pollution stress, especially with heavy metals. Heavy metal pollution is a great concern of matter as it enters in the bioaccumulation and bio-magnification processes of the aquatic food chain. The present study seasonally investigated the bioaccumulation of seven heavy metals (Pb, Zn, Fe, Cu, Cr, Cd and Co) in the body tissues of an edible bivalve, Marcia recens, from three sampling stations (viz. Neendakara, Kureepuzha and Asramam) of the lake during the study period in 2019. The results showed that, as per the standard permissible limits (FAO/USEPA, 1989), some of the metal accumulations were extremely high in the bivalve tissues. Highest Metal Pollution Index was observed in station Ⅱ. There were significant spatial and temporal variations in the accumulation of heavy metals in the the examined bivalve. Two way ANOVA analysis also reveals a statistically significant differences (p<0.5), in the heavy metal accumulation in the bivalve, among the stations as well as seasons. The continual exposure to even a relatively low levels of these metals by regular consumption of contaminated bivalves, may entail adverse health issues. Implementation of appropriate scientific and sustainable conservation strategies will ensure the health of the estuaries and the sustainability of bio-resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A laboratory experiment was performed to find out the potential bioaccumulation of metals (Al, Cu, Cd, Ni, Pb, Fe, Mn) in aquatic plants acting as natural biosorbents in the environment depending on the variation of water pH. Two plants were selected for the study: branched bur-reed—Sparganium erectum L., as a representative of emergent plants; and river water-crowfoot—Ranunculus fluitans Wimm., 1841, as a representative of submergent plants. The bioaccumulation of metals in plants relative to water (BCFW) was determined, and the metal pollution index (MPI) was calculated. The metal content in water and plants before the experiment was arranged in the following series of increasing values: Cd = Ni < Cu < Pb < Mn < Al < Fe (water) and Cd < Cu < Ni < Pb < Al < Fe < Mn (in both plants). The lowest concentration of cadmium was found in water both at the end and beginning of the experiment. In turn, aluminum level increased, and its concentration was the highest in both acidic and alkaline water. This suggests that aluminum is definitely more available to the organisms living in it under such conditions, and in higher concentrations may be a limiting factor for them. Bioaccumulation of metals (BCFW) in neutral and alkaline environments was higher in branched bur-reed, and in acidic conditions in river water-crowfoot. This may provide a basis for using specific plant species to selectively accumulate metals depending on the range of water pH. This is also supported by the MPI values, which indicate that they have a very high and often the highest impact on metal pollution levels. The observed variability of metals bioaccumulation against the condition of hydromacrophytes makes it possible to consider these plants as biosorbents used in constructed biological treatment plants, which, depending on the species placed there, can selectively absorb particular trace elements. The plants used in the experiment are common hydromacrophytes of Europe, so they can be used in the construction of artificial wetlands across the continent. The apparent diversity of metal accumulation in relation to hydromacrophytes indicates that this type of site can be inhabited by specific species, which can significantly improve the purification of natural or anthropogenic water reservoirs, i.e., those that are intended to perform a filtering function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This thorough study analyses the amounts of 43 minerals and trace elements in non-traditional wheat grains, flakes, and undigested flake portions using ICP-MS and establishes declines in their respective contents after the flake production. It also identifies appropriate dietary intakes, in vitro digestibility values, retention factors, and metal pollution indexes. The element contents in wheat flakes are lower than in wheat grains after the hydrothermal treatment process, and their declines are: Na (48–72%), Ce (47–72%), Sr (43–55%), Tl (33–43%), Ti (32–41%), U (31–44%), Ho (29–69%), Cr (26–64%), Zr (26–58%), Ag (25–52%), and Ca (25–46%). The flakes significantly contributed to the recommended dietary intake or adequate intake of particular elements for men of all categories as follows: Mn (143%) > Mo > Cu > Mg ≥ Cr > Fe (16%); for women: Mn (up to 183%) > Mo > Cu > Cr ≥ Mg > Fe (7–16%); for pregnant women aged 19–30: Mn (165%) > Mo > Cu > Mg > Cr (25%); and finally, for lactating women: Mn (127%) > Mo > Cu > Mg > Cr (17%). The contributions to the provisional tolerable weekly or monthly intakes of all toxic elements were established as being within the official limits. The daily intakes for non-essential elements were also calculated. The retention factors were calculated to assess the element concentrations in the undigested part using the digestibility values (87.4–90.5%). The highest retention factors were obtained for V (63–92%), Y (57–96%), Ce (43–76%), Pb (34–58%), Tl (32–70%), Ta (31–66%), and Ge (30–49%). K, Mg, P, Zn, Ba, Bi, Ga, Sb, Cu, Ni, and As appear to be released easily from flake matrices during digestion. The metal pollution index has been confirmed as being lower for non-traditional wheat flakes when compared with grains. Importantly, 15–25% of the metal pollution index assessed for native flakes remains in the undigested flake portion after in vitro digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of heavy metals in marine fish is important for assessing the health risks associated with fish consumption. In this study, the concentration of metals such as copper, lead and manganese were analyzed in the muscle tissue of five coral reef-associated fish species collected from the central Red Sea, Saudi Arabia. The maximum copper content of 0.183 μg g-1 (ww) was detected in fish samples. Fish samples also showed maximum lead and manganese values of 0.030 and 0.064 μg g-1 (ww), respectively. The metal concentration in fish tissue samples did not vary significantly between the fish species. In conclusion, the results obtained indicate that the content of heavy metals in the coral reef-associated fishes is below the values determined by various agencies for seafood safety.

The aim of the present study was to analyze the chemical composition of parsley, parsnip, carrot, and celeriac cultivated at different localities (urban, or suburban/village). The concentrations of heavy metals (cadmium, nickel, chromium) and essential elements (potassium, sodium, calcium, phosphorus) in edible plant parts were determined. Human health risks associated with chronic consumption of potentially contaminated vegetables were assessed through the use of hazard quotients. The concentrations of heavy metals and essential elements in the edible parts of the tested plants varied among plant species, cultivation locality and plant organ (leaf/root). Carrots showed the lowest levels of cadmium, nickel, and chromium accumulation, while the highest concentrations were measured for parsley leaves, with respect to average values. Metal pollution index values obtained for cities were lower than those obtained for some villages and a suburban settlement. The hazard quotient revealed the highest values for cadmium. Positive Pearson's correlation between chromium and nickel was found in many cases. Principal component analysis indicated differences in plants ability to accumulate certain nutrients and pollutants, while sample diversification was closely related to growth site properties. We sincerely hope that the present study will inspire similar investigations in other developing countries, as well as in the Western Balkans region, to obtain broader insight into vegetable food safety and local human health risk. Considering that food quality and safety are major concerns, our results should inform the relevant government authorities and provide a foundation for implementation of a system of controls over cultivation processes and vegetable quality in Serbia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe contamination of heavy metals in the Largescale Yellowfish (Labeobarbus marequensis) from the Solwezi River in North-western Zambia was investigated. The fish were captured from three different sampling sites on the Solwezi River. Site I was located before the mining effluents could join the river, site II was located immediately after the entry point of the mining effluent into the river, while site III was located downstream of where the effluents from the mining company had joined the river. The water and fish organs (muscle, gills, and liver) were checked for contamination with heavy metals. The values were compared with the established permissive levels considered safe for human consumption by the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Food and Agriculture Organization. In decreasing order, the contamination levels in fish organs were: Fe > Zn > Cu (gills), Fe > Zn > Cu (liver) and Zn > Fe > Cu (muscle). Co, Mn, and Pb were not detected in all the parts of the fish investigated. In water, the concentrations were in the order Zn > Fe > CU. The Metal Pollution Index (MPI) showed that site II was the most concentrated with heavy metals, while the gills were the most concentrated part of the fish. These results showed that the levels of the heavy metals investigated in the water and fish were within permissive levels by WHO and FAO. However, future expansion of existing companies and the introduction of new ones should strictly be monitored and their risks studied to safeguard fish and other aquatic products.

Trophic transfer and bioaccumulation of trace metals have a profound impact on the structure and function of coastal areas; however, the metal accumulation patterns in detritus-based food webs and the influence of climatic variability have not been thoroughly investigated. The Tampamachoco Lagoon (Gulf of Mexico) is a coastal system impacted by emissions from a thermoelectric plant. We evaluated the spatial–temporal distribution patterns of Al, Cd, Hg, Cr, Cu, and Pb in water, sediments, and in organisms categorized by trophic levels (TLs), trophic guilds, and habitat preferences. The sediments had the highest concentrations of metals with no significant differences between seasons. The indices of geo-accumulation and potential ecological risk classified sediments as "moderately contaminated", evidencing a threat to human health through consumption of detritivores and filter-feeders. The lowest TLs (filter-feeders and detritivorous) reached the maximum Metal Pollution Index in the rainy season. According to discriminant analyses of metals and species, omnivorous and zoobentivorous organisms were associated with Hg during the rainy and dry seasons; while Al, Cd, and Cu were related to low TLs, and seston was associated with Pb. Food web magnification factor analysis showed that: (a) Pb, Cu, and Cr were biodiluted as trophic levels increased; (b) Cd and Hg showed temporal biomagnification trends; (c) Al, Pb, Cu, and Cd showed significant biodilution from the lowest TL to intermediate TLs; and (d) Hg was transferred from the lowest to intermediate TLs with clear biomagnification effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sediments from banks of the Sutlej River and roadside soils from vicinity of Ropar wetland (collected during pre- and post-monsoon seasons, 2013) were analysed to determine the spatiotemporal distribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs, viz. arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, lead and zinc), which when present in high concentrations may pose health hazards and ecological risk. Contamination factor, degree of contamination, modified degree of contamination, metal pollution index, pollution load index, enrichment factor, geoaccumulation index and ecological risk index were also determined for these PTEs in the study area. Sediment and soil samples were found to be alkaline and non-saline (pH > 7.0; EC < 4500 μS cm−1) with sodium and potassium as major ions. Iron (mg kg−1) was found to be most abundant in sediments (1477.59–6512.45) and soils (922.64–12,455.00). Cadmium content in sediments exceeded the threshold value (0.99 mg kg−1) at 2 (pre-monsoon) and 3 (post-monsoon) sampling sites. In both seasons, cadmium (0.10–2.05) and cobalt (11.40–17.52) contents (mg kg−1) exceeded the threshold limits (0.06 and 8.00 respectively) in all roadside soils. Significant spatiotemporal variation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed for pH; EC; and calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and zinc contents. Low to moderate potential ecological risk was observed for both roadside soils (31.80–213.82) and sediments (41.47–236.73). Contamination factor, enrichment factor and geoaccumulation index for cadmium were highest in roadside soils (6.84, 46.91 and 2.19, respectively) and sediments (7.64, 167.46 and 2.35, respectively) due to settlement of coal fly ash released from the industrial setups, on sediments/soils of the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although fish are often recommended as a component of a healthy diet, the environmental accumulation of heavy metals in many fish species has been of considerable concern for those weighing the nutritional health benefits against adverse toxic outcome of excess intake of toxic metals. This study aimed to determine the concentration of essential and toxic metals in the tissues of Catla catla in Mangla Lake and to assess the possible risk to the consumers. Fifty samples of Catla catla were collected from Mangla Lake, Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan and analyzed for eighteen metals including essential and trace metals. The measured range concentrations (µg/g, wet weight) in muscle tissues, in decreasing order, were: K (955–1632), Ca (550–2081), Na (449–896), Mg (129–312), Zn (61.2–215), Fe (11.6–26.8), Sr (2.60–9.27), Pb (1.72–7.81), Se (1.55–3.55), Co (0.12–4.08), Mn (1.04–4.33), Ni (0.69–3.06), Cu (0.88–2.78), Cr (0.45–1.88), As (0.67–1.58), Cd (0.28–0.56), Hg (0.17–0.57) and Li (0.12–0.38). The metal concentrations found in this study were comparatively higher than those reported in literature. A majority of the metals exhibited higher accumulation in gills compared with those in scales and muscles. Mean levels of Pb, As, Co, Mn, Cd, Cr and Zn in Catla catla muscle were found to be exceeding the international permissible limits for the safe human consumption. The condition factor (K), as an indicator of fish health status, indicated that Catla catla of Mangla Lake are in good health condition. The metal pollution index (MPI) of gills (27.9), scales (12.5) and muscle (7.57) indicated low contamination. Moreover, human health risk was evaluated using estimated weekly intake (EWI) and daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target cancer risk (TCR). Estimated weekly and daily intake values for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni and Pb were higher than provisional permissible tolerable weekly intake and permissible tolerable daily intake while THQ for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Se and Zn was higher than 1. The THQ for As, Hg and Pb was several folds higher than 1, indicative of lifetime non-carcinogenic health risks to the consumers. The hazard index indicated cumulative risk, which greatly increased with increasing fish consumption. Target cancer risk indicated that the people eating the Catla catla from Mangla Lake were exposed to As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb with a significant lifetime carcinogenic risk. In summary, consumption of Catla catla from this lake was found to be associated with an increased lifetime risk to the general health of the consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing heavy metal accumulation in edible fauna is harmful to human health. Among mangrove crabs, Cardisoma armatum is the most consumed despite their doubtful hygienic states. This study aims at assessing heavy metal accumulation in associated sediments and C. armatum crabs related to season and site differences and their implications on human health. Mean concentrations of metals in sediments were ordered: Aluminium (Al=3191.84 mg/kg)> Zinc (Zn=139.90 mg/kg)> Copper (Cu=48.50 mg/kg)> Lead (Pb=36.17 mg/kg)> Iron (Fe=23.08 mg/kg)> Cadmium (Cd=0.35 mg/kg). Occurrence and levels of metals showed high differences between sites and enrichment in the sediments are mainly related to human activities. Copper was not found at Mpalla site and in both seasons. Dried sediments were higher in concentration than wet sediments for all metals because of the regular soil leaching which occurred in the wet periods. For crab tissues, mean concentrations of metals were ranked: Fe (127.43 mg/kg) > Zn (67.07 mg/kg) > Al (13.69 mg/kg) > Cu (3.09 mg/kg) > Cd (0.19 mg/kg) > Pb (0.11 mg/kg). Likewise, patterns of metal levels were highly different in both sites and all metals were prominent during the dry season resulting probably in biological cycle changes in C. armatum. Levels of essential metals (Cu, Zn and Fe) were found higher possibly to maintain biological functions. Concentrations of metals were largely exceeded threshold values (except for Cu and Pb) which imply unpleasant human health risks could occur. Bioconcentration factor (BCF) value of Fe (5.52) was largely above 1. It seems that Fe appears to be a good tool for monitoring Fe pollution in the area. The elevated metal pollution index (MPI=4.37) indicated high bioaccumulation affinities with all metals. This therefore implies that consuming C. armatum may pose non-negligible health implications to humans.

In the study, Trachurus trachurus, Engraulis encrasicolus, Merlangius merlangius euxinus, and Mullus barbatus from along the coast of Sinop were analysed for the content of copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni) and aluminium (Al) in the muscle. Zn, Pb and Cd concentrations were determined to be lightly higher than the acceptable rates in fish samples. The provisional tolerable daily and weekly intake of trace metals in our work were all under than the limits set by the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization, while for Cd, only M. barbatus was higher than FAO limits. E. encrasicolus and M. barbatus had the highest values for the collected total target danger section, but they did not posture a potential hazard within the diet of local residents. For carcinogenic and non carcinogenic risk assessment, the results were lower than the admissible rate of EPA. In the four fish species in the work, the Target cancer risk values of Ni were greater than 10-4, whereas the Target cancer risk values of Pb were smaller than 10-6. According to these results, it is thought that the Ni concentration in fish does pose a carcinogenic risk due to long-term and continuous consumption.

The present study aimed to evaluate the level of some heavy metals in two edible cephalopods; Sepia officinalis and Octopus vulgaris and investigate the distribution and accumulation of these metals in different body parts of cephalopods. The concentrations of seven essential and nonessential heavy metals (Mn, Fe, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Cd) were measured in the body parts ( Head, Arms, Mantles, Digestive gland, Ink, and Viscera) of the investigated cephalopods which collected from three sites at Alexandria city from the Mediterranean Sea-Egypt during March 2017. The digestive gland of both species exhibited a similar pattern of some heavy-metal accumulation where it was the major part of the highest concentrations of Cu, Zn, and Cd. The highest concentration of Mn was found in the viscera of both studied species while the highest concentration of Fe was recorded in the viscera of the Sepia and the digestive gland of the octopus. The metal pollution index (MPI) in Octopus (5.95) was slightly higher than recorded in Sepia (4.38). The lowest value of MPI was found in the head and the mantle of sepia while for the octopus the lowest value of MPI was found in their arms and mantle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of ground and surface waters by landfill leachate is a prime environmental concern. The present research assesses chemical composition of leachate generated in the Karadiyana open dumpsite in Sri Lanka and the groundwater pollution caused by the landfill. The leachate pollution index (LPI) of Karadiyana is 34.00, suggesting that it has the potential to contaminate the environment. The nitrate, ammonia, and total phosphate concentrations in leachate varied in the range of 20.70 to 167.80, 376.55 to 580.33 and 10.00 to 84.00 mg/L respectively. Four major groups, namely, tryptophan- and tyrosine-like protein fractions, and fulvic and humic fractions were identified in leachate using fluorescence data. The bio chemical oxygen demand (BOD) to chemical oxygen demand (COD) ratio of leachate in the present study varied between 0.39 and 0.49 which categorizes leachate into intermediate age with medium biodegradability. This observation was further verified by the average pH and COD values of leachate; 6.81 ± 0.08 and 2221 ± 45 mg/L, respectively. Only one out of ten dug wells located in a radius of about a kilometer from Karadiyana dumpsite can be classified as good water for drinking purposes though eight of ten are used for drinking at the moment. All ten dug wells exceeded the WHO recommended nitrate level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Estuarine and coastal ecosystems are often considered vulnerable due to the complex biogeochemical processes and the human disturbances through a variety of pollution. Among environmental contaminants, heavy metals in estuarine and coastal ecosystems have been of increasing concern in environmental conservation. Long-term exposure to heavy metal contamination, mainly through food and water, could be harmful to human health. It is therefore critical to understand the quantitative comparisons and combined effects of different heavy metals in common seafood species, such as oysters. This work studied the long-term spatiotemporal trends and health risk assessment of oyster arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) levels in the coastal waters of northern South China Sea. Cultured oysters (Crassostrea rivularis) from 23 estuaries and harbors in the coastal areas of northern South China Sea in 1989–2015 were analyzed for the spatiotemporal trends of the six heavy metal levels. Metal pollution index (MPI), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) were used for quantifying the exposure of the six heavy metals to human health through oyster consumption. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for assessing the relative importance of the six metals in oyster heavy metal distribution patterns in the northern South China Sea. Overall, the As, Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, and Zn levels in oysters from the northern South China Sea generally declined from 1989 to 2015, stayed relatively high (MPI = 2.42–3.68) during 1989–2000, gradually decreased since 2000, and slightly increased after 2010. Oyster heavy metal levels were highest in the Pearl River Estuary (MPI = 1.20–5.52), followed by west Guangdong and east Guangdong, Guangxi, and Hainan coastal waters. This pattern is probably because economics and industry around the Pearl River Estuary have been growing faster than the other areas of this work in the recent two decades, and it should be taken as a hotspot for the monitoring of seafood safety in southern China. Principal component analysis indicated that Cu, Zn, and Cd were the most important metals in the long-term distributions of oyster heavy metal levels in the northern South China Sea. Health risk assessment suggested that the risk of the six heavy metals exposure through oyster consumption were relatively high during 1989–2005 (THQ = 1.01–5.82), significantly decreased since 2005 (THQ < 1), and slightly increased after 2010. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigated the water quality index (WQI) of the Kshipra river at Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, India, using native fish Labeo rohita, and plant Eichhornia crassipes. The temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, alkalinity, turbidity, and dissolved solids were found to be within the prescribed limits. However, heavy metals concentration exceeded the limit except for Cu and Zn. Their occurrence in river water was as follows: Ni > Fe > Cd > Cr > Mn > Zn > Cu. Among these heavy metals, Cd was found to be highly bioavailable, whereas Zn was the least bioavailable metal. Based on WQI, the water was found to be unfit for drinking, and the high WQI value was due to the presence of Cr and Cd. In fish tissues (muscle, liver, gut, gills, and kidney), the highest and lowest metal pollution index was found in gills (45.03) and kidneys (12.21), respectively. Bioaccumulation of these metals resulted in significant depletion of energy reserves (protein, glucose, and glycogen) and also altered hematological parameters. Moreover, liver function tests showed hepatic damage in the exposed fish. In-plant, both the bioaccumulation and mobility factor exceeded 1 for all these metals. On the other hand, the translocation factor was found to be beyond 1 for Fe, Ni, and Zn. These high values make this plant fit for phytoextraction of Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Cd and phytostabilization of Cr in water. Moreover, consumption of L. rohita from the Kshipra River does not pose a non-cancer risk as the target hazard quotient was below 1, but it may pose cancer risk because of the presence of Cr in the range of 1.402 × 10−3 to 1.599 × 10−3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigated concentrations, distribution, and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in agriculture soil and crops irrigated by the Kali River of Uttar Pradesh, India. Soils and crop samples were collected from 17 locations along the river and analyzed for heavy metal concentrations. Metals in soil and plant were recorded as Fe > Zn > Mn > Cu > Ni > Pb > Cr > Cd and Mn > Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Ni > Pb > Cd, respectively. The bioaccumulation factor was < 1 that indicates lesser accumulation of metals in plants except for Cd, Mn, and Zn. Metal pollution index ranged between 1.84 and 6.62 and shows that crops growing at the S10 to S17 sites accumulate greater metal concentrations. Cluster analysis showed agglomeration of Cr-Pb-Cd, Cu-Ni-Mn, and Fe-Zn which revealed different sources of metal pollution. The present study shows low to moderate heavy metal pollution in Kali River irrigated areas thus consumption of agriculture produce may cause adverse health effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the concentration and evaluate the health hazard of heavy metals ) Lead, Chromium, Copper, and Zinc( in muscle tissue of Cyprinus carpio and Ctenopharyngodon idella in Bashar River, Yasuj. In order to assess the concentration of metals in fish and the health risks of their consumption, 60 fish samples were taken in different parts of the river (before, in, and after Yasouj city), and after preparation and acid digestion of samples, the concentrations of these metals were determined by using atomic absorption spectroscopy. In order to assess the risk of fish consumption, Consumption Rate Limit (CRlim)؛, Metal Pollution Index (MPI), Hazard Quotient (HQ), and Hazard risk (HI) of metals were used. The results showed that the average total concentration of Cr, Pb, Zn, and Cu in Cyprinus carpio and Ctenopharyngodon idella were (1.21± 0.76, 2.83 ± 1.26, 36.1±13.46 and 16.29 ±2.1) and (0.84±0.68, 2.09±1.48, 32.93±8.06 and 9.57±5.88) mg/kg, respectively. The amount of MPI, CRlim, showed that contamination and health risk of consumption of C. carpio were significantly higher than C. idella. The results showed that the level of a health risk index for C, carpio and C. idella species were 0.348 and 0.244, respectively. Also, the amount of Hazard index (HI) in both fish species was less than one. According to the results although the concentration of metals in fish does not have a health risk for consumers, continuing the trend of entering various pollutants from urban, industrial, and agricultural wastewater into the river can lead to the accumulation of these elements in the food chain of the ecosystem, caused a serious threat to the health of living creatures and their consumers.

Water resources have become world social and economic concerns. Lake Nasser provides more than 95% of the Egyptian freshwater funds. Wadi Al-Rayan lakes are man-made with a vital role in irrigation water and fisheries. The present study was aimed to investigate and compare the effect of heavy metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Pb and Cd) accumulation in muscles, liver and gills on the health status of O. niloticus collected from both lakes, and the potential human health hazard of consuming those fish. The results demonstrated that, the accumulation of different metals arranged in the following order; Fe˃ Zn˃ Mn ˃Cd˃ Cu> Pb in Nasser Lake, while the order was Fe˃ Zn˃ Mn ˃Cu˃ Pb>Cd in Wadi Al-Rayan Lake. The metal pollution index (MPI) in fish tissues followed the order: liver > gills > muscles. Moreover, the biochemical indices of O. niloticus from both Nasser and Wadi Al-Rayan Lakes showed a significant alteration due to metal pollution. Moreover, the human health hazard index recorded an adverse health effect for habitual fish consumers from Wadi Al-Rayan Lake during both seasons, while the same hazard recorded in spring for habitual fish consumers from Nasser Lake which yield an alarming concern for fish consumers’ health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diverse genotoxic agents, entering the aquatic environment through natural and anthropogenic events, pose serious threats to its biotic components. The present study involves the monitoring of water quality by assessing the genotoxic effects and physico-chemical parameters including heavy metals of 10 surface water samples collected from different locations of Buddha Nullah, a tributary of Sutlej flowing through Ludhiana, Punjab (India). Genotoxicity was evaluated following Allium cepa root chromosomal aberration assay and DNA nicking assay using plasmid (pBR322) whilst the metal (cadmium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, nickel and zinc) analysis was conducted using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. All water samples collected from the study area had cobalt and lead content more than the permissible limits (0.04 and 0.01, respectively) recommended by the Bureau of Indian Standards and the World Health Organization. The samples also induced genotoxicity following both bioassays. The water samples collected from Gaunspur (GP), a site approx. 75.53 km upstream of the Sutlej-Buddha Nullah joining point, has shown the maximum genotoxic effect, i.e. 38.62% in terms of per cent total aberrant cells during A. cepa assay and 100% DNA damage during DNA nicking assay. The Pearson correlation indicated that genotoxicity had a significant positive correlation with the content of cobalt (at p ≤ 0.5). During cluster analysis, the samples from 10 sites formed four statistically significant clusters based on the level of pollution that was dependent on two factors like similarity in physico-chemical characteristics and source of pollution at a specific site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although fish are often recommended as a component of a healthy diet, the environmental accumulation of heavy metals in many fish species has been of considerable concern for those weighing the nutritional health benefits against adverse toxic outcome of excess intake of toxic metals. This study aimed to determine the concentration of essential and toxic metals in the tissues of Catla catla in Mangla Lake and to assess the possible risk to the consumers. Fifty samples of Catla catla were collected from Mangla Lake, Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan and analyzed for eighteen metals including essential and trace metals. The measured range concentrations (µg/g, wet weight) in muscle tissues, in decreasing order, were: K (955–1632), Ca (550–2081), Na (449–896), Mg (129–312), Zn (61.2–215), Fe (11.6–26.8), Sr (2.60–9.27), Pb (1.72–7.81), Se (1.55–3.55), Co (0.12–4.08), Mn (1.04–4.33), Ni (0.69–3.06), Cu (0.88–2.78), Cr (0.45–1.88), As (0.67–1.58), Cd (0.28–0.56), Hg (0.17–0.57) and Li (0.12–0.38). The metal concentrations found in this study were comparatively higher than those reported in literature. A majority of the metals exhibited higher accumulation in gills compared with those in scales and muscles. Mean levels of Pb, As, Co, Mn, Cd, Cr and Zn in Catla catla muscle were found to be exceeding the international permissible limits for the safe human consumption. The condition factor (K), as an indicator of fish health status, indicated that Catla catla of Mangla Lake are in good health condition. The metal pollution index (MPI) of gills (27.9), scales (12.5) and muscle (7.57) indicated low contamination. Moreover, human health risk was evaluated using estimated weekly intake (EWI) and daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), hazard index (HI) and target cancer risk (TCR). Estimated weekly and daily intake values for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni and Pb were higher than provisional permissible tolerable weekly intake and permissible tolerable daily intake while THQ for As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, Se and Zn was higher than 1. The THQ for As, Hg and Pb was several folds higher than 1, indicative of lifetime non-carcinogenic health risks to the consumers. The hazard index indicated cumulative risk, which greatly increased with increasing fish consumption. Target cancer risk indicated that the people eating the Catla catla from Mangla Lake were exposed to As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb with a significant lifetime carcinogenic risk. In summary, consumption of Catla catla from this lake was found to be associated with an increased lifetime risk to the general health of the consumers.

This study was conducted on two native fish species namely Mystus vittatus and Mystus tengara inhabiting challenging environment of Yamuna River. The heavy metals concentrations in the river water were found to be as follows: Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu > Ni > Cr > Cd, all above the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The high metal pollution index in gill, liver, and kidney of M. vittatus was recorded compared to M. tengara. The pathology caused by the accumulation of heavy metals resulted significantly (p < 0.05) higher enzyme activities of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and creatinine kinase (CK) in M. tengara as compared to M. vittatus. However, albumin: globulin ratio was found to be below 0.8 in both fishes. Higher total leukocyte (TLC) (48.5 × 103/mm3), lymphocytes (40%), respiratory burst activity (1.9), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activity (13.11 U/L) in M. vittatus reflect high immune response. In addition, chromosomal breakage study showed significantly (p < 0.05) low micronuclei frequency, lobed nuclei, and kidney-shaped nuclei (KSN) in M. vittatus. These results indicate that under the same challenging conditions M. vittatus have more capability of resistance and its continuous survival points towards its suitability to serve as a bioindicator than M. tengara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of indiscriminate disposal of waste materials on the quality of Aba River was examined in this research. Levels of Cd, Pb, Cu, Ni, Fe, Zn, Cr, and Mn were determined in water and sediments from Aba River. Modified BCR sequential extraction procedure was employed for the fractionation of metals in sediments. Levels of toxic metals in water (Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cr) were higher than their recommended limits for potable water. However, mean levels of all the metals except Fe were within their safe limits in sediment. Levels of all the metals in sediments were also higher than in water significantly at p < 0.05. Results showed that Cd, Pb, Ni, and Cr existed mostly in the non-residual fractions while essential elements (Cu, Fe, Zn, and Mn) existed mainly in the residual fraction. Consequently, toxic metals were more mobile and bio-available than the essential ones in Aba River. Cd, Pb, and Ni were metals with serious potential health risk to those exposed to the River. Principal component analysis revealed natural and anthropogenic factors as being responsible for the accumulation of metals in the studied Aba River. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The macrophytes in natural conditions perform an important role in the maintenance and balance of aquatic environments with a capacity of absorbing the excess of nutrients and pollutants serving as bioindicators of water quality in aquatic ecosystems. The objective was to evaluate the levels of trace metals in three species of macrophytes (Egeria densa - submerged and Eichhornia crassipes and Salvinia auriculata - floating) collected around an aquaculture area of cages in the Itaipu Binational reservoir, during the four seasons of the year. The macrophyte samples were submitted of nitroperchloric digestion. Subsequently, the quantification of metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, Pb, Cd and Cr) was carried out by flame atomic absorption spectrometry analytical method. The concentration of Cu, Fe and Mn in E. densa and S. auriculata was higher (P<0.05) than in E. crassipes. The samples of S. auriculata and E. crassipes had the lowest concentrations (P<0.05) of Pb. The lowest metal pollution index (MPI) was determined in E. crassipes. There was greater bioaccumulation of metals in the root concerning the stem and leaves of E. crassipes (P<0.05). The results obtained in this study show the influence of seasonal variation in the levels of Fe and Zn and the species analyzed on the concentration of Fe, Zn and Mn accumulated in aquatic macrophytes. The macrophytes E. crassipes and E. densa can be considered efficient accumulators of metals, indicating the exposure of the concentration of trace metals around the aquaculture area intended for the fish production in cages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is to assess heavy metals contamination in vegetables and fruits in Bangalore Rural taluk markets such as Nelamangala, Doddaballapura, Devanahalli and Hosakote. Samples randomly collected from these markets were analyzed for heavy metals, viz. Lead, Chromium, Cadmium, Arsenic, Mercury and Copper in vegetables like Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), Brinjal (Solanum melongena), Radish (Raphanus sativus), Carrot (Daucus carota), Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea), Beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), Spinach (Spinacea oleracea), Banana (Musa paradisiaca), Mango (Mangifera indica) by using standard methods, such as ICP-MS. The Metal pollution index and Hazard quotient were calculated. The results indicate that the presence of heavy metals in vegetables and fruits was beyond the permissible limits of human consumption set by FAO/WHO. Consumption of contaminated fruits and vegetables may disturb biochemical and biological activities in human beings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to study the effect of irrigation water quality in different fish farms in Egypt on the quality of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, produced from these fish farms. Four fish farms (El-Abbasa, Edko, Mariout and Bahr El-Baqar) which irrigated with different water sources were selected to study the effect of some heavy metals (iron, copper, zinc and lead) on fish quality produced from these farms during the period of fish culturing from April 2018 to November 2018. Results indicated that most of the highest averages of all heavy metal concentrations in water, sediment and fish muscular tissues were recorded from Bahr El-Baqar fish farm and their lowest values from El-Abbasa fish farm. The highest contamination factors for most heavy metals were recorded in Bahr El-Baqar fish farm and the lowest in El-Abbasa fish farm. The present study concluded that El-Abbassa fish farm has low pollution and the other fish farms (Edko, Mariout, and Bahr El-Baqar) have progressive deterioration of the site quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed at using Little Egrets (Egretta garzetta), for the first time in Egypt, as a bioindicator of heavy metal contamination from three different Egyptian land use types (Qillin within Kafr El-Sheikh (S1, agricultural), Toukh within Qalyubia (S2, semi-rural area), and Abu Rawash within Giza (S3, urban)). Concentrations of aluminum (Al), barium (Ba), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) were analyzed in liver and kidney samples of twenty-six adult Little Egrets collected from the three localities during winter 2018. Moreover, the study calculated the Metal Pollution Index (MPI) to highlight the health of the surrounding environment using birds' internal organs as a mirror. Results revealed that, throughout the three sampling sites, the total metal concentrations in liver samples exceeded that of the kidney, indicating that the liver is the target organ of metal accumulation. The Little Egret's liver was found to be the best-recommended organ to use in future biomonitoring of Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn, and Ni, whereas Al, Co, Cr, Ba, Pb, and Cd can be monitored in the kidney. Cu and Pb were higher in the Little Egret's tissues collected from the agricultural site (S1), whereas Ba, Ni, and Fe were higher in the semi-rural site (S2), followed finally by Cd in the urbanized site (S3). The concentrations of trace elements reported in Little Egrets were within the known background level for water birds. However, alarming concentrations were found for Ni levels in liver (from Qillin and Toukh), as well as Pb and Cr levels in kidney samples (from the three localities). MPI of the eleven studied metals in both liver and kidney of the studied species decreased in the order Qillin (24.36) > Abu Rawash (17.98) > Toukh (3.90). In the three investigated localities, the overall calculated MPI values were higher than one, indicating that the ecosystem is polluted. The study suggested using Little Egrets as a bioindicator of metal contamination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was conducted with an objective to study the concentration of heavy metals, metal pollution index and daily intake of metal in eight selected vegetables viz. R. sativus (Raddish), B. oleracea (Cabbage), B. vulgaris ssp. Cicla (Beet-root), C. sativum (Coriander), S. oleracea (Spinach), B. vulgaris var. bengalensis (Spinach plain), B. compestis (Brassica) and T. foenum-graecum (Fenugreek) collected from three local markets of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. The concentrations of heavy metals in different vegetables have ranged as—Fe: 36.18–121.80, Cu: 4.58–16.6, Cr: 0.04–0.24 and Cd: 0.05–2.55 µg g−1. The trend of the sum value of daily intake of metal for vegetables was found as: B. vulgaris var. bengalensis > S. oleracea > B. vulgaris ssp. cicla > C. sativum > B. oleracea > T. foenum-graecum > B. compestis > R. sativus. The metal pollution index in B. compestis, R. sativus, S. oleracea, B. vulgaris var. bengalensis, T. foenum-graecum, B. vulgaris ssp. cicla, C. sativum and B. oleracea was ranged from 6.10–10.28, 2.83–11.17, 2.68–5.63, 2.22–6.23, 4.38–8.35, 2.2–8.16, 1.62–6.95 to 1.75–8.85, respectively. Findings revealed that metal concentration in 32% of sampled vegetables was found to be higher than the permissible limits prescribed by FAO/WHO. Regular consumption of those vegetables may cause toxicity to the primary and secondary consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare environmental pollution and ecological states of two different areas of the Songhua River areas: near Harbin City and Tongjiang City, located at a distance of about 500 km downstream. The anthropogenic pollution concentrations of heavy metals (HM) were determined. The results showed that concentrations of eight metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, and Zn) in the water were in the range of 0.001–0.588 mg/L for Tongjiang and 0.001–0.508 mg/L for Harbin, while that in sediments were in the range of 0.67–1575.37 mg/kg for Tongjiang and 0.07–5617.13 mg/kg for Harbin, respectively. Bivalves from tested sites exposed to environmental pollution exhibited significantly different physiological states. The latter was assessed using the method of physiological loading, based on measuring the recovery time (Trec) of heart rate (HR) after removal of the load. Trec in mussels from Harbin was recorded in the range of 151 to 234 min, while that from Tongjiang was only 115 min. Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn in mollusk soft tissues were also determined for Harbin and Tongjiang, respectively. The metal pollution index (MPI) and bioconcentration factor (BCF) in the mollusks were calculated for each metal. BCF in the mussels from the Tongjiang area was lower than that from the Harbin area. Physiological testing, as well as the concentration of HM in water, and sediment, and also the bioaccumulation of HM in tissue showed that the ecological state of the Tongjiang area was better than that of Harbin. Apparently, after more extensive studies, a methodological approach of assessing the ecological state of water areas, based on physiological state testing of aboriginal mollusks, could be used in the monitoring of pollution effects in water bodies and streams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total concentration, speciation, sources and potential health problems of Pb, Cd, Cu, Fe and Ni in a dumpsite soil within Calabar Municipality were evaluated in this work. The influence of organic matter and pH of the studied dumpsite soil on metal availability was also assessed. Results obtained indicated that; mean concentration of all the metals were higher in studied dumpsite soil than in the Control and higher than their recommended limits for Nigerian soil as well. Metal speciation revealed that, Pb and Fe existed mainly in the reducible form; Cd occurred in acid extractable fraction, Cu in oxidisable form while Ni existed primarily in inert (residual) fraction. Pb and Cu originated primarily from anthropogenic source whereas, natural source contributed mostly to the existence other metals in studied soil. All the environmental models utilized confirmed that, the studied dumpsite soil has been highly contaminated by these metals. Principal component analysis identified impact of wastes and industrial/agricultural wastes as the two major factors affecting the studied soil. Cluster analysis recognized the parameters with similar chemical properties and common source. Metals assessed exhibited variable correlations among themselves, while soil organic matter and pH displayed both significant positive and negative influence on metal availability. Results obtained identified Pb as the element with high risk potential in the studied soil and children as the highly vulnerable class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Trace metals (TM) in processed seafood products were below the MRLs. • TMs in seafood products as follows: masmin > SIO > MIO > TIO > FP > PP. • Smoked products showed higher TMs, followed by canned and pickled products. • Pollution indices revealed that seafood products are clean and safe for consumption. • Adults can safely consume > 16 meals/month without health consequences. This study used inductively coupled plasma and mass spectrometry, followed by microwave digestion, to assess the concentration of six trace metals (Cr, Ni, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb) in three canned products (tuna in oil [TIO], sardine in oil [SIO], and mackerel in oil [MIO]), two pickled products (prawn pickle [PP] and fish pickle [FP]), and one smoked product (masmin) collected from Tuticorin market, southern India. Trace metal (TM) levels in canned, pickled, and smoked fish varied from 0.01 to 1.48, 0.009 to 0.94, and 0.08 to 4.13 mg/kg, respectively. The concentration of TMs in the seafood was observed in the following order: As > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd > Hg. Regarding their accumulation in the seafood products, masmin showed the highest levels followed by SIO, MIO, TIO, FP, and PP. The results revealed that smoked products showed higher TM concentrations, followed by canned and pickled products. The level of TMs in seafood products was below the maximum residue limit set by the European Commission (EC/1881/2006) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Risk assessment for consumer health implied that the evaluated target hazard quotient (THQ < 1), hazard index (HI < 1), and target cancer risk (TCR < 1.E−04) values did not exceed their guideline values and did not cause non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic health impacts through seafood product consumption. The pollution index (P i) values of TMs in seafood products ranged from 0.01 to 0.7, with As and Cd showing the lowest and highest values, which were below 0.7, indicating their safety for consumption. The metal pollution index (MPI) for TMs in seafood ranged from 9.E−05 to 0.007, with the lowest and highest values associated with PP and TIO products. The MPI value for seafood products was below 1, signifying low TMs accumulation, suggesting the safety of seafood for consumption. The maximum seafood meal consumption limit (CR mm) was calculated, showing that adults can safely consume > 16 meals/month without chronic or acute toxicity. The results of this study suggest that the accumulation of TMs in the analyzed seafood product was below the health guidelines and pollution index values, making it suitable for smooth domestic and international export as well as safe consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface water pollution with heavy metals represents one of the most relevant environmental issues, with severe outcomes on every other environmental compartment, affecting therefore the human health because of their toxicity, persistence and bioaccumulation tendency. The Danube, one of the most important rivers of Europe considering its course, crossing the continent from west to east, represents the main collector of all pollutants emitted by the ten countries it passes through, prior to discharging into the Black Sea. Given all this, and because of the possible unwanted effects that may occur as a result of recent constructions taking place in the area to improve the navigation conditions, the aim of this study is to evaluate the variation of the global concentration of heavy metals in both water and sediments by calculating the Metal Pollution Index (MPI) on the sector between Calarasi - Braila (km 370 - km 170). Water and sediment samples from Lower Danube were collected between January 2012 and December 2013, from ten different sites. The following heavy metals have been determined: chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb) and nickel (Ni). Metal Pollution Index values were used for a seasonal and spatial comparison of the total metal content from the established sites. For a more detailed interpretation of results, Cluster Analysis was performed. Frequent monitoring of the heavy metal content of Lower Danube has a significant impact on water quality, keeping a low pollution risk and having a long term positive impact on environmental protection of the Black Sea Basin.

Highlights • Hazard index and modified heavy metal pollution index have been correlated. • Proposed correlation is generic, multivariate, non-linear and globally applicable. • Optimization of weightage factor for each metal improves the correlation. • Proposed correlation function has a predictive capability. Abstract Hazard index and various heavy metal pollution indices in groundwater are generally poorly correlated though all of them aim to address water quality. A semi empirical approach has been proposed for correlating Hazard Index (HI) of groundwater samples with a recently introduced heavy metal pollution index, m-HPI. m-HPI has two components, a positive index (PI) and a negative index (NI). It is possible to correlate HI with PI and NI through multivariate non-linear regression (MVNLR). Correlation performance may be improved by optimizing the weightage factor of each heavy metal. Introduction of USEPA heavy metal reference dose (RfD) in the expression for weightage factor improves the correlation still further. The newly proposed approach has been successfully validated with seven sets of water samples of different origin comprising different sets of heavy metals. The derived correlation function is generic and has global applicability as optimized m-HPI (PI and NI) data of 305 groundwater samples spread over six different locations could be well correlated with corresponding HI through a single generic correlation function employing MVNLR model. The predictive capability of MVNLR model has been demonstrated for each site. This communication has brought for the first time two poorly correlated similar narratives such as HI and heavy metal pollution index (HMPI) on the same page and provided a very useful predictive tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge on heavy metals accumulation level from surrounding sources around a watershed is of fundamental concern to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic activities on water ecosystems. Therefore, eight heavy metals with toxic potential and their accumulation in surface water and sediments, sampled in 22 lakes/dams along the Olt River (Romania), were investigated in this work. To compare the total content of metals at the sampling locations a metal pollution index (MPI) was calculated and the level of partitioning the metals between the surface water and sediments in the area was assessed using partition coefficients (Kd) between the metal pairs in both media. MPI in water varied from excellent quality at sampling point Dragasani Lake to very high degree of pollution at Govora Lake (situated in close proximity of a chemical platform), while in sediment was found from low degree of pollution at Arcesti Lake to extremely high degree of pollution at Ramnicu Valcea Lake. The higher values (log Kd >1) recorded for Cr, Cd, As, and Hg imply low solubility and greater retention of these metals on the sediment and the lower log Kd values recorded for Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni suggest lower affinity of organic sediments to adsorb metals. In sediment samples the "strong" correlations were found for the following pairs of metals: Cu-Zn (r=0.89), Ni-Zn (r=0.80), Cd-Zn (r=0.77), Ni-Cr (r=0.76), Ni-Cu (r=0.95), Cd-Cu (r=0.78), Cd-Ni (r=0.77) and Cd-Pb (r=0.96); in water samples the "strong" correlations were found for Ni-Cr (r=0.92), Pb-As (r=0.77), Ni-As (r=0.77) and Ni-Pb (r=0.76). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals and bromine (Br) derived from organic and industrialized fertilizers can be absorbed, transported and accumulated into parts of plants ingested by humans. This study aimed to evaluate in an experiment conducted under no-tillage for 10 years, totaling 14 applications of pig slurry manure (PS), pig deep-litter (PL), dairy slurry (DS) and mineral fertilizer (MF), the heavy metal and Br contents in soil and in whether the grains produced by corn ( Zea mays L.) and wheat ( Triticum aestivum L.) under these conditions could result in risk to human health. The total contents of As, Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, Cu, Zn and Br were analyzed in samples of fertilizers, waste, soil, shoots and grains of corn and wheat. Afterwards, enrichment factor (EF), accumulation factor (AF), health risk index (HRI), target hazard quotient (THQ) and target cancer risk (TCR) were determined. Mineral fertilizer exhibited the highest As and Cr content, while the highest levels of Cu and Zn were found in animal waste. The contents of As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn in soil were below the limits established by environmental regulatory agencies. However, a significant enrichment factor was found for Cu in soil with a history of PL application. Furthermore, high Zn contents were found in shoots and grains of corn and wheat, especially when the plants were grown in soil with organic waste application. Applications of organic waste and mineral fertilizer provided high HRI and THQ for Br and Zn, posing risks to human health. The intake of corn and wheat fertilized with pig slurry manure, swine deep bed, liquid cattle manure and industrialized mineral fertilizer did not present TCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Co, As, Co, and Hg in the sea grass Posidonia oceanica and surface sediment samples were determined. Together with P. oceanica, surface sediment samples were collected at eight locations in the major demographic, tourist and port areas along the Montenegrin coast to assess metal pollution. The metal pollution index (MPI) and metal enrichment factor (EF) were calculated and used to evaluate the impact of heavy metals in the surface sediment on P. oceanica. The sediment MPI and EF values were lower than these values in P. oceanica at the same locations. Since the surface sediment contained lower mean concentrations of Zn, Ni, Pb, Cd and Hg, than the sea grass P. oceanic, we concluded that the sea grass absorbed some metals from the seawater column. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. III 43009]

Background. Wastewater is often used in developing countries for irrigation of crops. This wastewater often contains a number of heavy metals which are harmful to human health due to their non-biodegradable nature, long biological half-lives and their potential to accumulate in different body parts. There are many potential risks to human health from heavy metal contamination of vegetables grown at waste-water-irrigated sites. Objectives. This study was carried out to assess the concentration of heavy metals and the risk to human health by heavy metals (lead (Pb), nickel (Ni) and arsenic (As)) through the intake of locally grown vegetables collected from wastewater irrigated agricultural fields. The objectives of the present study were to determine concentrations of heavy metals in vegetables collected from the wastewater-irrigated fields, to calculate daily intake of heavy metals from the consumption of vegetables for both adults and children, and to evaluate their potential health risk. Methods. Twenty-seven samples of nine different types of vegetables were analyzed by an Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) (Varian AAS 240 F S). Results. The range of various metals in waste-water irrigated vegetables were not detected (ND)-0.188, 0.072–1.069 and ND-0.076 mg/kg for Pb, Ni and As, respectively. The highest mean concentration of all metals was detected in jute leaf, except for Pb which was found in the stem amaranth leaf. The mean concentration of all metals in all vegetables was within the safe limits of the World Health Organization/Food and Agricultural Organization (WHO/FAO) and China's national standards. The health risk index was more than 1 for As in jute leaf for both adults and children. The metal pollution index was highest (0.16 mg/kg) in jute leaf, whereas green papaya showed the lowest metal pollution index (MPI) value (0.005 mg/kg). Among all vegetables tested, the highest intake values of Ni and As were from consumption of jute leaf and the highest intake values of Pb from consumption of stem amaranth leaf for both adults and children. Conclusions. Higher values in the metal pollution index and health risk index indicate heavy metal contamination in wastewater-irrigated soils that present the potential for a significant negative impact on human health.

Heavy metal distributions in water, sediments, and freshwater shellfish collected from Liuyang River in China have been investigated. The concentrations of heavy metals including Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, and Pb were determined by ICP-MS. The distribution pattern of heavy metals in sediments was different from that in water. Large coefficients of variation of heavy metal concentrations were observed in water due to the susceptibility to discharge fluctuation and seasonal variation. Multivariate statistical analysis such as Pearson’s correlation analysis, hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA), and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed to identify the possible sources of heavy metals in sediments. These heavy metals were categorized into three distinct groups, one was derived from natural existence and two were associated with anthropogenic activities. Five shellfish species including three species of gastropod mollusks (Parafossarulus eximius, Semisulcospira cancellata, and Pomacea canaliculata) and two species of bivalve mollusks (Corbicula fluminea and Anodonta woodiana) were collected and investigated. The distribution pattern of heavy metals in shellfish species was visualized by the nonmetric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) plot. The metal pollution index (MPI) values for the shellfish species were in the descending order of C. fluminea > A. woodiana > S. cancellata > P. eximius > P. canaliculata. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pb, Cd, Zn, and Cu concentrations and their distribution in liver, gill, and muscle tissues of the catfish Cathorops spixii and Genidens genidens were investigated in order to provide information concerning the bioaccumulation processes in these species. Fish were collected in one estuary subject to slight human influence (Cananéia) and in two regions within the Santos-São Vicente estuary, São Paulo, Brazil, subject to distinct anthropogenic influences: 1) industrial and 2) domestic. In general, the highest concentrations of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were found in the liver tissue. Muscle showed the lowest values of metal accumulation for all the elements investigated. Regarding the distribution and the metal pollution index (MPI), the levels of the metals analyzed decreased in the following order: liver>gill>muscle. MPI results suggest that gill and liver are important organs to exemplify the bioaccumulation process and are also better able to reflect both recent and chronic exposure to metals.Concentrações de Pb, Cd, Zn e Cu e sua distribuição no fígado, brânquias e músculo dos bagres Cathorops spixii e Genidens genidens foram determinadas visando fornecer informações sobre os processos de bioacumulação desses metais nas espécies. Os peixes foram coletados no estuário de Cananéia e em duas regiões do estuário de Santos-São Vicente, ambos em São Paulo, Brasil. Esses estuários apresentam distintas influências antropogênicas, sendo o primeiro deles submetido a impacto industrial e o segundo a impacto doméstico. Em geral, as maiores concentrações de Cu, Zn, Cd e Pb foram obtidas no tecido hepático. No músculo foram encontrados os menores valores de acumulação para todos os elementos investigados. Quanto à distribuição dos metais e ao seu índice de poluição (Índice de Poluição por Metais-IPM), os níveis diminuíram na seguinte ordem: fígado>brânquias>músculo. Resultados do IPM sugerem que as brânquias e o fígado são importantes órgãos para indicar processos de bioacumulação, sendo também os melhores para refletir exposições crônica e recente a metais.