Mercury concentration in larvae of Eustrongylides sp (Nematoda: Dioctophymatoidea) from fish of the Brazilian Amazon / Concentración de mercurio en larvas de Eustrongylides sp (Nematoda: Dioctophymatoidea) en peces de la Amazonía brasileña

Abstract Introduction: Chemical pollution represents a great concern to aquatic organisms, especially fish. Metals enter the aquatic environment from a variety of sources, including natural biogeochemical cycles and anthropogenic sources such as industrial and residential effluents, mining and atmospheric sources. Objective: To describe the Eustrongylides sp. larvae and the interaction with their fish hosts as indicators of mercury (Hg) contamination in the Brazilian Amazon, and the distribution of Hg in the internal organs of fish species Hoplias malabaricus and Pygocentrus nattereri collected in oxbow lakes on the Tapajós River, in the municipality of Santarém, in the state of Pará. Methods: Total Hg was analyzed using the Direct Hg Analyzer - DMA-80. Concentrations of Hg in Eustrongylides sp. were compared with those found in the tissues/organs of the hosts H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. Hg concentrations in the host/parasite system were statistically compared using Principal Component Analysis. The bioconcentration factor (BCF) was calculated to assess the bioaccumulation capacity of metals in Eustrongylides sp. larvae, comparing the concentration of Hg in the parasite with that accumulated in the musculature of infected hosts. Results: Hg concentrations in all tissues/organs analyzed were higher in the parasitic species Eustrongylides sp. larvae when compared with those found in tissues/organs of H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. There was an inversely proportional relationship, showing that when Eustrongylides sp. larvae are present, the concentration in the parasite is higher than in the musculature of host fish H. malabaricus and P. nattereri. The BCF of Hg was found by comparing Eustrongylides sp. larvae/H. malabaricus muscle and was observed during a flood (BCF Hg = 15 364). Conclusions: The results confirm the greater bioaccumulative capacity of Eustrongylides sp. compared to its host. The data indicated the viability of using Eustrongylides sp. larvae in biomonitoring programs. It is worth mentioning that fish samples for Hg analysis must be free of parasites since their presence can alter the results.

Resumen Introducción: La contaminación química del hábitat acuático representa un gran peligro para organismos acuáticos, especialmente para peces. Los metales ingresan al ambiente acuático desde una variedad de fuentes, incluidos los ciclos biogeoquímicos naturales y fuentes antropogénicas, como efluentes industriales y residenciales, minería y fuentes atmosféricas. Objetivo: Describir las especies de Eustrongylides sp. y la interacción con sus peces hospederos como indicadores de contaminación por mercurio en la Amazonía brasileña, y la distribución en los órganos internos de las especies de peces Hoplias malabaricus y Pygocentrus nattereri recolectadas en cochas del Río Tapajós, en el municipio de Santarém, del estado de Pará. Métodos: El Hg total se analizó utilizando el Direct Hg Analyzer - DMA-80. Las concentraciones de Eustrongylides sp. se compararon con las encontrados en los tejidos/órganos de los hospederos H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. Las concentraciones en el sistema hospedero/parásito se compararon estadísticamente utilizando el análisis de componentes principales. Se calculó el factor de bioconcentración (BCF) para evaluar la capacidad de bioacumulación de metales en larvas de Eustrongylides sp., comparando la concentración en el parásito con la acumulada en la musculatura de los hospederos infectados. Resultados: Las concentraciones de Hg en todos los tejidos/órganos analizados fueron mayores en las larvas de la especie parasitaria Eustrongylides sp. en comparación con las encontradas en los tejidos/órganos de H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. Hubo una relación inversamente proporcional, mostrando que cuando las larvas de Eustrongylides sp. están presentes, la concentración en el parásito es mayor que en la musculatura de los peces hospederos H. malabaricus y P. nattereri. El BCF de Hg se encontró comparando Eustrongylides sp. larvas/ músculo H. malabaricus y se observó durante una inundación (BCF Hg = 15 364). Conclusiones: Los resultados confirman la mayor capacidad bioacumulativa de Eustrongylides sp. en comparación con su hospedero. Los datos indicaron la viabilidad de utilizar larvas de Eustrongylides sp. en programas de biomonitoreo. Cabe mencionar que las muestras de pescado para análisis de Hg deben estar libres de parásitos ya que su presencia puede alterar los resultados.

Selenium-rich food potentially useful to control mercury levels among Afro-Colombians: Towards an intercultural intervention / Alimentos ricos en selenio potencialmente útiles para controlar los niveles de mercurio entre afrocolombianos: hacia una intervención intercultural

Introduction. Diet-based interventions may be a culturally acceptable option to decrease mercury levels and thus prevent the adverse effects of this metal on population health. Selenium is an element present in Colombian geology that can act as a chelator, decreasing mercury concentrations in the human body. Objective. To identify potentially useful selenium-rich foods to control the effects of mercury exposure among Afro-Colombians. Materials and methods. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 320 individuals from five municipalities of Chocó. They were asked about the frequency of consumption of selenium-rich foods, and their association with mercury concentrations in hair was estimated with multiple robust regression. Results. Guava, whole wheat flour, strawberries, cow liver, spinach and yeast extract were the foods with higher consumption. Walnuts, whole wheat flour, and yeast extract were identified in multiple robust regression as foods to consider in future interventions. Conclusion. It is proposed that the banana juice, the pineapple colada, the borojó (Borojoa patinoi) sorbet, the cucas, and the enyucado are basic elements for a culturally acceptable intervention.

Introducción. Las intervenciones basadas en la dieta pueden ser una opción culturalmente aceptable para disminuir los niveles de mercurio y prevenir los efectos adversos de este metal en la salud de la población. El selenio es un elemento presente en la geología colombiana que puede actuar como quelante, disminuyendo las concentraciones de mercurio en el cuerpo humano. Objetivo. Identificar los alimentos ricos en selenio potencialmente útiles para controlar los efectos de la exposición a mercurio entre afrocolombianos. Materiales y métodos. Se realizó un estudio transversal con 320 individuos de cinco municipios del departamento del Chocó. Se les preguntó sobre la frecuencia de consumo de alimentos ricos en selenio y su asociación con las concentraciones de mercurio en cabello fue estimada con regresión múltiple robusta. Resultados. La guayaba, la harina de trigo integral, las fresas, el hígado de vaca, la espinaca y el extracto de levadura fueron los alimentos de mayor consumo. Las nueces, la harina de trigo integral y el extracto de levadura fueron identificados en regresión múltiple robusta como alimentos por considerar en futuras intervenciones. Conclusiones. Se propone que el jugo de plátano, la piña colada, el sorbete de borojó (Borojoa patinoi), las cucas, el enyucado y la sábida de plátano primitivo maduro son elementos básicos para una intervención culturalmente aceptable.

Mercurio y trastornos del neurodesarrollo en niños: una revisión sistemática / Mercury and neurodevelopmental disorders in children: A systematic review

El mercurio es un metal tóxico que puede atravesar la placenta y la barrera hematoencefálica, y causar la interrupción de varios procesos celulares. Estudios han investigado la exposición al mercurio y trastornos en el neurodesarrollo, por lo que se requiere un análisis crítico y riguroso de esta evidencia. El objetivo de esta revisión fue evaluar la evidencia científica disponible sobre los efectos de la exposición al mercurio durante las etapas prenatal y posnatal, y su relación con el desarrollo de trastornos neuroconductuales. Se realizó una búsqueda sistemática en las bases de datos MEDLINE y ScienceDirect; los resultados se presentaron a través de tablas y síntesis narrativa. Solo 31 estudios cumplieron los criterios de elegibilidad. En general, la evidencia es limitada sobre los efectos de la exposición al mercurio y trastornos del neurodesarrollo en niños. Entre los posibles efectos reportados, se hallan problemas en el aprendizaje, autismo y trastorno por déficit de atención e hiperactividad.

Mercury is a toxic metal which can cross the placenta and the blood-brain barrier and cause the disruption of various cellular processes. Studies have investigated mercury exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders; therefore, a critical and rigorous analysis of this evidence is required. The objective of this review was to evaluate the available scientific evidence on the effects of mercury exposure during the prenatal and postnatal periods and its relationship with the development of neurobehavioral disorders. A systematic search of the MEDLINE and ScienceDirect databases was conducted; the results were presented in tables and narrative synthesis. Only 31 studies met the eligibility criteria. Overall, the evidence on the effects of mercury exposure and neurodevelopmental disorders in children is limited. Learning disabilities, autism, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder were some of the reported potential effects.

Metal Exposure in Arica, Chile: Examining Toxic Elements / Análisis de exposición a metales en Arica, Chile: niveles de elementos tóxicos

BACKGROUND: Bioaccumulation of toxic metals in the population is associated with adverse health effects. Although some elements are essential for humans, high levels of exposure can be dangerous. OBJECTIVE: To describe the levels of Inorganic Arsenic (AsIn), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), and Mercury (Hg) in urine, and Lead (Pb) in blood in the population of Arica, Chile. METHODOLOGY: Descriptive study. Beneficiaries of the Health Surveillance Program of Law 20.590 in sites of higher risk of exposure in the commune of Arica were considered eligible. The results of biological samples to measure their concentrations of AsIn, Cd, Cr, Hg in urine, and Pb in blood between August 2016 and May 2021 are described. RESULTS: 9520 samples from a population with a mean age of 40.5 years were studied. 4.21% of the adult population and 6.57% of the children had AsIn values above 35 μg/L, while at least 95 % of the total samples had levels below 33 μg/L. At least 90 % of the samples had Cd levels below 1.1 μg/L, and 8.44 % had Cd levels above 2 μg/L, higher in males (11.67%). There were no values above the reference in children. 99.77% and 99.33% had Cr and Pb values below the reference limit, respectively (using the lowest reference range established by Chile Ministry of Health (MINSAL) < 5 μg/L). Children did not present risk values for Cr, and 0.16% presented Pb concentrations between 5-10 μg/dL. All samples presented Hg concentrations below risk levels (< 10 μg/L). CONCLUSIONS: The results of this study suggest that a small percentage of the samples analyzed in the beneficiary population of Arica register metal concentration levels above national reference levels established by MINSAL, mainly AsIn, Cd, and Pb. It is essential to continue biomonitoring to reduce and prevent exposure to these metals, which can have harmful effects on human health.

ANTECEDENTES: La bioacumulación de metales en la población está asociada a efectos adversos y pueden ser peligrosos. OBJETIVO: Describir los niveles de Arsénico Inorgánico (AsIn), Cadmio (Cd), Cromo (Cr), Mercurio (Hg) y Plomo (Pb) en la población de Arica, Chile. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo. Se incluyeron todas las personas beneficiarias del Programa de Vigilancia de Salud de la Ley 20.590 en sitios de riesgo de mayor exposición en la comuna de Arica entre agosto 2016 y mayo 2021. RESULTADOS: Se estudiaron 9.520 muestras provenientes de una población con una edad media de 40.5 años. 4.21% de la población adulta y el 6.57% de los niños presentaron valores de AsIn superiores a 35 μg/L y al menos el 95% de las muestras totales tenía niveles inferiores a 33 μg/L. Más del 90 % de las muestras tuvieron niveles de Cd menores a 1.1 μg/L y un 8.44% registró niveles de Cd superiores 2 μg/L. El 99.77% y 99.33% exhibieron valores normales de Cr y Pb, respectivamente. Todas las muestras presentaron concentraciones de Hg por debajo de los niveles de riesgo (< 10 μg/L). CONCLUSIONES: Los resultados sugieren que un porcentaje pequeño de la población de Arica registra niveles de concentración de metales por sobre niveles de referencia nacional establecidos por el Ministerio de Salud de Chile, principalmente de AsIn, Cd y Pb. Es importante continuar con la vigilancia para reducir y prevenir la exposición a estos metales, que pueden generar efectos nocivos en la salud humana.

Determination of methylmercury in urine by direct mercury analyzer / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To develop asolvent extraction-direct mercury analyzer method for determination of methylmercury in urine. Methods: After the urinehydrolyzesd by hydrobromic acid, methylmercury was extracted by tolueneand reverse-extracted from L-cysteine solution, it was then detectedbydirect mercuryanalyzer. Results: The linear range was 0.2-50.0 μg/L, and the related coefficient was 0.9999. The relative standard deviations (RSD) within the group were 5.04%-6.64%, and the RSD between the group were 5.65%-8.11 %. The average recovery efficiencies were 85.4%-95.5%. The detection limitation was 0.0482 μg/L and the quantification concentrations was 0.1607 μg/L. Conclusion: The method, which has low detection limit, high sensitivity, easy to operate, is stability for the determination of methylmercury in urine.

Report on a case of significant increase in urine mercury due to excessive mercury in cosmetics / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Mercury is highly toxic and can be absorbed through skin contact. From December 5, 2020 to February 16, 2021, occupational disease laboratory of the First People's Hospital of Baiyin received 30 urine mercury test samples from a beauty salon in Lanzhou City. The test results showed that 28 samples exceeded the normal value (normal value: 4 μg/g Cr) . 15 patients were treated with sodium dimertopropyl sulfonate for mercury removal and tiopron for liver protection, and the prognosis was good.

Analysis on health status and influencing factors of 1353 mercury workers in Xinjiang / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To investigate the health status of workers exposed to occupational mercury, and to provide the theoretical basis for formulating reasonable health monitoring and targeted protection measures. Methods: In November 2021, 1353 mercury-exposed workers who underwent occupational health examination in a hospital in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region from 2018 to 2021 were collected as research subjects. By analyzing their blood pressure, electrocardiogram, blood routine, liver function and urine β2-microglobulin and urinary mercury in different gender, age, length of service, industry and enterprise scale, and the health status. And the influencing factors of urinary mercury were evaluated. Results: Among 1353 workers exposed to mercury, there were 1002 males (74.1%), the average age was (37.2±9.8) years old, and the length of service was 3.1 (2.0, 8.0) years. The abnormal rates of physical examination, blood pressure, electrocardiogram, blood routine, liver function, urinary β2-microglobulin and urinary mercury were 73.9% (1000/1353), 12.3% (166/1353), 30.2% (408/1353), 59.9% (810/1353), 32.5% (440/1353), 15.2% (205/1353) and 2.2% (30/1353), respectively. The abnormal rates of blood pressure, blood routine, liver function, urinary β2-microglobulin and urinary mercury in male workers were higher than those in female workers (P<0.05). The abnormal rates of workers' blood pressure and physical examination results increased with the increase of age and length of service, while the abnormal rate of electrocardiogram results were opposite (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the abnormal rates of blood pressure, blood routine, urinary β2-microglobulin and physical examination results among workers of different enterprises and different industries (P<0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the workers with age ≥30 years old, microminiature enterprises, abnormal physical examination results and urinary β2-microglobulin were the susceptible population with abnormal urinary mercury (P<0.05) . Conclusion: The occupational health status of mercury workers in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is not optimistic, and the health monitoring of microminiature enterprises and older workers should be improved to effectively protect the physical and mental health of workers.

Safety evaluation of Tibetan medicine Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills based on serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology / 中国中药杂志

To explore the mechanism of the active ingredients of Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills in inhibiting the hepatorenal toxicity of the zogta component based on serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology, thereby providing references for the clinical safety application of Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills. The small molecular compounds in the serum containing Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills of mice were identified by high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry(HPLC-MS/MS). Then, by comprehensively using Traditional Chinese Medicines Systems Pharmacology(TCMSP), High-throughput Experiment-and Reference-guided Database(HERB), PubChem, GeneCards, SuperPred, and other databases, the active compounds in the serum containing Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills were retrieved and their action targets were predicted. The predicted targets were compared with the targets of liver and kidney injury related to mercury toxicity retrieved from the database, and the action targets of Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills to inhibit the potential mercury toxicity of zogta were screened out. Cytoscape was used to construct the active ingredient in Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills-containing serum-action target network, and STRING database was used to construct the protein-protein interaction(PPI) network of intersection targets. The Gene Ontology(GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) enrichment analyses were carried out on the target genes by the DAVID database. The active ingredient-target-pathway network was constructed, and the key ingredients and targets were screened out for molecular docking verification. The results showed that 44 active compounds were identified from the serum containing Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills, including 13 possible prototype drug ingredients, and 70 potential targets for mercury toxicity in liver and kidney were identified. Through PPI network topology analysis, 12 key target genes(HSP90AA1, MAPK3, STAT3, EGFR, MAPK1, APP, MMP9, NOS3, PRKCA, TLR4, PTGS2, and PARP1) and 6 subnetworks were obtained. Through GO and KEGG analysis of 4 subnetworks containing key target genes, the interaction network diagram of active ingredient-action target-key pathway was constructed and verified by molecular docking. It was found that taurodeoxycholic acid, N-acetyl-L-leucine, D-pantothenic acid hemicalcium, and other active ingredients may regulate biological functions and pathways related to metabolism, immunity, inflammation, and oxidative stress by acting on major targets such as MAPK1, STAT3, and TLR4, so as to inhibit the potential mercury toxicity of zogta in Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills. In conclusion, the active ingredients of Qishiwei Zhenzhu Pills may have a certain detoxification effect, thus inhibiting the potential mercury toxicity of zogta and playing a role of reducing toxicity and enhancing effect.

Mercury species analysis and tissue distribution in rats after continuous administration of Cinnabaris / 中国中药杂志

Cinnabaris is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) commonly used for sedation and tranquilization in clinics, and its safety has always been a concern. This study intends to investigate the species and tissue distribution of mercury in rats after continuous administration of Cinnabaris. In the experiment, 30 rats were randomly divided into the control group(equivalent to 0.5% carboxy-methyl cellulose sodium), low-dose Cinnabaris group(0.2 g·kg~(-1)), high-dose Cinnabaris group(2 g·kg~(-1)), pseudogerm-free control group(equivalent to 0.5% sodium carboxymethyl cellulose), and pseudogerm-free Cinnabaris group(2 g·kg~(-1)). They were orally administered for 30 consecutive days. Ultrasound-assisted acid extraction method combined with high performance liquid chromatography and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry(HPLC-ICP-MS) was adopted to determine inorganic mercury [Hg(Ⅱ)], methylmercury(MeHg), and ethylmercury(EtHg) in different tissue, plasma, urine, and feces of rats. The optimal detection conditions and extraction methods were optimized, and the linearity(R~2>0.999 3), precision(RSD<7.0%), and accuracy(spike recoveries ranged from 73.05% to 109.5%) of all the mercury species were satisfied, meeting the requirements of analysis. The results of mercury species detection showed that Hg(Ⅱ) was detected in all the tissue of the five experimental groups, and the main accumulating organs were the intestinal tract, stomach, and kidney. MeHg existed at a low concentration in most tissue, and EtHg was not detected in all groups. In addition, pathological examination results showed that hepatocyte vacuolar degeneration, loose cytoplasm, light staining, and mononuclear cell infiltration were observed in the high-dose Cinnabaris group, low-dose Cinnabaris group, and pseudogerm-free Cinnabaris group, with slightly milder lesions in the low-dose Cinnabaris group. Hydrous degeneration of renal tubular epithelium could be seen in the high-dose Cinnabaris group and pseudogerm-free Cinnabaris group, but there was no significant difference between the other groups and the control group. No abnormal changes were found in the brain tissue of rats in each group. This paper studied the different mercury species and tissue distribution in normal and pseudogerm-free rats after continuous administration of Cinnabaris for 30 days and clarified its effects on the tissue structure of the liver, kidney, and brain, which provided supporting evidence for the safety evaluation of Cinnabaris.

Maternal Mercury Exposure and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy: A Systematic Review / Exposição materna a mercúrio e distúrbios hipertensivos na gestação: Uma revisão sistemática

Abstract Objective The present review aimed to synthesize the evidence regarding mercury (Hg) exposure and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Data Sources The PubMed, BVS/LILACS, SciELO and UFRJ's Pantheon Digital Library databases were systematically searched through June 2021. Study Selection Observational analytical articles, written in English, Spanish, or Portuguese, without time restriction. Data Collection We followed the PICOS strategy, and the methodological quality was assessed using the Downs and Black checklist. Data Synthesis We retrieved 77 articles, of which 6 met the review criteria. They comprised 4,848 participants, of which 809 (16.7%) had HDP and 4,724 (97.4%) were environmentally exposed to Hg (fish consumption and dental amalgam). Mercury biomarkers evaluated were blood (four studies) and urine (two studies). Two studies found a positive association between Hg and HDP in the group with more exposure, and the other four did not present it. The quality assessment revealed three satisfactory and three good-rated studies (mean: 19.3 ± 1.6 out 28 points). The absence or no proper adjustment for negative confounding factor, such as fish consumption, was observed in five studies. Conclusion We retrieved only six studies, although Hg is a widespread toxic metal and pregnancy is a period of heightened susceptibility to environmental threats and cardiovascular risk. Overall, our review showed mixed results, with two studies reporting a positive association in the group with more exposure. However, due to the importance of the subject, additional studies are needed to elucidate the effects of Hg on HDP, with particular attention to adjusting negative confounding.

Resumo Objetivo A presente revisão busca sintetizar as evidências em relação à exposição ao mercúrio (Hg) e os distúrbios hipertensivos da gestação (DHG). Fontes Dos Dados Os bancos de dados PubMed, BVS/LILACS, SciELO e a Biblioteca Digital da UFRJ Pantheon foram sistematicamente pesquisadas durante junho de 2021. Seleção de estudos Artigos observacionais analíticos, escritos em inglês, espanhol ou português, sem restrição temporal. Coleta de Dados A estratégia PICOS foi seguida e a qualidade metodológica foi avaliada usando o checklist Downs and Black. Síntese de dados Foram encontrados 77 artigos, dos quais 6 atenderam aos critérios da revisão. Foram 4.848 participantes, dos quais 80 (16,7%) tinham DHG e 4.724 (97,4%) estavam expostos ambientalmente ao Hg (consumo de peixe e amálgama dental). Os biomarcadores de mercúrio avaliados foram sangue (quatro estudos) e urina (dois estudos). Dois estudos encontraram associação positiva entre Hg e DHG no grupo com maior exposição e os outros quatro não a apresentaram. A avaliação de qualidade metodológica revelou 3 estudos satisfatórios e 3 bons (média: 19,3 ± 1,6 em 28 pontos). A ausência ou não de ajuste adequado para fator de confusão negativo, como consumo de pescado, foi observada em cinco estudos. Conclusão Recuperamos apenas seis estudos, embora o Hg seja um metal tóxico generalizado e a gravidez seja um período de maior suscetibilidade a ameaças ambientais e risco cardiovascular. No geral, nossa revisão mostrou resultados mistos, com dois estudos relatando associação positiva no grupo com maior exposição. No entanto, devido à importância do assunto, estudos adicionais são necessários para elucidar os efeitos do Hg sobre DHG, com atenção especial ao ajuste de confundimento negativo.

Mercury chloride toxicity attenuation of the Brine Shrimp Artemia Salinaafter treatment with Mercurius corrosivusas isotherapic

Isotherapics preparedfromtoxic substances have been described as attenuation factors for heavy metal intoxicationin aquatic animals. Herein, Artemia salinaand mercury chloride were usedas a model to identify treatment-related bioresilience. The aim was to describe the effects of Mercurius corrosivus(MC) in different potencies on Artemia salinacyst hatching and on mercury bioavailability. Artemia salinacysts were exposed to 5.0 µg/mL of mercury chloride during the hatching phase. MC6cH, 30cH, and 200cHwere prepared and poured into artificial seawater. Different controls were used (nonchallenged cysts and challenged cysts treated with water, succussed water, and Ethilicum 1cH). Four series of nine experiments were performed for4 weeks to evaluate the percentage of cyst hatchingconsidering all moon phases. Soluble total mercury (THg) levels and precipitated mercury content were also evaluated. Solvatochromic dyes were used to check for eventual physicochemical markers of MCbiological activity. Two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) with mixed modelswas used for evaluating the effect of different treatments andthe simultaneous influence of the moon phases on the cystshatching rate, at both observation times (24 and 48 hours).When necessary, outliers were removed, using the Tukeycriterion.Thelevel of significance αwas set at 5%. Significant delay (p<0.0001) in cyst hatching was observed after treatment with MC30cH, compared with the controls. An increase inTHg concentration in seawater (p<0.0018) and of chlorine/oxygen ratio (p<0.0001) in suspended micro-aggregateswas also seen, with possiblerelation with mercury bioavailability. Specific interaction of MC30cH with the solvatochromic dye ET33 (p<0.0017) was found. The other observed potencies of Mercurius corrosivus6 and 200 cH were not significant in relation to the observed groups.The results werepostulated as being protective effects of MC30cH on Artemia salina, by improving its bioresilience.

Neurobehavioral assessment of Danio reriointoxicated by Mercury and the use of Mercurius solubilis

Mercury is used in various industrial. Part of Mercury's industrial waste is discharged into the environment, rivers and their tributaries, thus contaminating aquatic animals. Aim:to evaluate Mercury-induced behavioral changes in Zebrafish (Danio rerio) by the analysis of locomotor activity and parameters related to neurotoxicity and to verify whether ultra-diluted substances can decrease neurobehavioral effects and toxic. Methodology:The fishes were separated into 4 monitoring aquariums with 8 fishes each, with temperature, pH controlled, until the time of the toxicological experiments. 0.5 mL of Mercury 6cH, 30cH and distilled water (positive control) were added per liter of water in each aquarium containing 6 liters of water, then 3 mL of medication per aquarium, the white control received no medication and the toxic agent. After 1 hour the drugs were added, toxic mercury (200 µg/L), 4 mL per aquarium was added and remained so for 24 hours. All the experiment was run in blind, and the drugs identified by codes. The animals were subjected to behavioral tests (Open Field-locomotion; Vertical Open Field for neurotoxicity evaluation and Light and Dark Test), and each stage was recorded for later evaluation of movements and neurobehavioral changes. ANOVA was performed, followed by Tukey test, with p <0.05. Results: Mercury produced an anxiogenic effect in animals that were submitted to it without medication. In the vertical open field, there was an increase in erratic movements (1.25 ± 1.0) and tremors (0.87 ± 0.35) compared to the control (0.12 ± 0.35 and 0.25 ± 0.46 respectively), proving the toxic effect. Fishes which received the medication at 6 cH and 30 ch showed tremors and erratic movements similar to control. Conclusion:200 µg/L mercury in water can cause neurobehavioral disturbances in fishes, and animals receiving Mercurius6 cH and 30 cH ultra-diluted drug did not show neurotoxicity.

Carga de la enfermedad y costos en salud por la exposición a mercurio: revisión de alcance / Burden of disease and health costs from mercury exposure: Scoping review

Resumen Introducción: El mercurio circula por el aire; persiste en suelos, sedimentos y agua, y causa efectos en la salud humana. Las mujeres en edad fértil y los neonatos son la población más vulnerable. Objetivo: Analizar las evidencias sobre la carga de enfermedad ocasionada por la exposición a mercurio, así como el impacto económico sobre el sistema de salud. Metodología: Revisión de alcance de la literatura, de las bases de datos PUBMED y EPISTEMONIKOS, búsqueda manual de documentos técnicos de entidades oficiales de diferentes continentes. Resultados: Se identificaron 311 registros en bases de datos y 4 en búsqueda manual en entidades oficiales; 19 artículos fueron incluidos. Discusión: Predomina la afectación del desarrollo neurológico y cognitivo en niños de madres expuestas y lactantes. Los costos se midieron por la pérdida del coeficiente intelectual. Conclusión: Efectos en salud por la exposición a metilmercurio se traducen en gastos para la sociedad y los sistemas de salud.

Abstract Introduction: Mercury circulates through the air, persists in soils, sediments and water, and can affect human health. Women of childbearing age and newborns are the most vulnerable population. Objective: To analyze the evidence on the burden of disease caused by mercury exposure, as well as the economic impact on the health system. Methodology: Review of the literature, PUBMED and EPISTEMONIKOS databases, manual search of technical documents of official entities from different continents. Results: A total of 311 records were identified in databases and four in manual searches from official entities; 19 articles were included. Discussion: Neurological and cognitive development in children of exposed mothers and infants are more predominant. Costs were measured by IQ loss. Conclusion: Health effects of methylmercury exposure translate into costs for society and health systems.

Study on the difference of curative effect of conventional mercury displacement treatment on mercury in brain and kidney / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

Objective: To explore the expulsion effect of sodium dimercaptopropanesulfonate (DMPS) on mercury in different organs of mercury poisoning and the therapeutic effect of glutathione (GSH) combined with antioxidant therapy on mercury poisoning. Methods: In February 2019, 50 SPF male SD rats were randomly divided into 5 groups, 10 rats in each group: A (saline negative control group) , B (HgCL2 positive control group) , treatment group (C: intramuscular injection of DMPS 15 mg/kg treatment, D: intramuscular injection of DMPS30 mg/kg treatment, E: intramuscular injection of DMPS 15 mg/kg and intraperitoneal injection of GSH200 mg/kg treatment) . Rats in group B, C, D and E were subcutaneously injected with mercury chloride solution (1 mg/kg) to establish a rat model of subacute mercury poisoning kidney injury. Rats in group A were subcutaneously injected with normal saline. After the establishment of the model, rats in the treatment group were injected with DMPS and GSH. Rats in group A and group B were injected with normal saline. At 21 d (treatment 7 d) and 28 d (treatment 14 d) after exposure, urine and blood samples of 5 rats in each group were collected. Blood biochemistry, urine mercury, urine microalbumin and mercury content in renal cortex, cerebral cortex and cerebellum were detected. Results: After exposure to mercury, the contents of mercury in renal cortex, cerebrum and cerebellum of rats in group B, C, D and E increased, and urine microalbumin increased. Pathology showed renal tubular injury and renal interstitial inflammation. Compared with group B, urinary mercury and renal cortex mercury in group C, D and E decreased rapidly after DMPS treatment, and there was no significant decrease in mercury levels in cerebellum and cerebral cortex of rats, accompanied by transient increase in urinary albumin after DMPS treatment (P<0.05) ; the renal interstitial inflammation in group E was improved after GSH treatment. There was a positive correlation between urinary mercury and the contents of mercury in renal cortex, cerebral cortex and cerebellum (r=0.61, 0.47, 0.48, P<0.05) . Conclusion: DMPS mercury expulsion treatment can significantly reduce the level of metal mercury in the kidney, and there is no significant change in the level of metal mercury in the cortex and cerebellum.

Analysis of heavy metal pollution in Lonicerae Japonicae Flos and its health risk assessment / 中国中药杂志

In this study, the content of five heavy metals(Pb, Cd, As, Hg, and Cu) in 59 batches of Lonicerae Japonicae Flos(LJF) medicinal materials and pieces were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry(ICP-MS). The health risk assessment was processed using the maximum estimated daily intake(EDI), target hazard quotients(THQ), and carcinogenic risks(CR) assessment models. With reference to the limit standard for heavy metal content in LJF specified in 2020 edition of Chinese Pharmacopoeia, five batches produced in Hebei were found to contain excessive Pb, and the remaining 54 batches met the specifications, with the unqualified rate of 8.47%. Comparative analysis of heavy metal content in LJF samples from three different producing areas, namely Shandong, Henan, and Hebei showed that the levels of Pb, As, and Hg in LJF from Hebei were significantly higher than those from Henan and Shandong. The samples produced in Shandong contained the highest content of Cd. The samples from Hebei contained the highest content of Cu while those from Shandong had the lowest content of Cu. As demonstrated by health risk assessment based on the EDI, THQ and CR models, these 59 batches of LJF samples did not cause significant health hazards for the exposed population, and there was no potential non-carcinogenic or carcinogenic risk. In conclusion, a few of LJF samples contained excessive heavy metals, so some measures, including controlling production environment, cultivating management mode, and optimizing processing methods, should be taken for ensuring the medication safety of LJF.

Conflicto armado, contaminación y riesgos en salud: una evaluación de riesgo de tres fuentes de exposición ambiental asociadas con el conflicto en Colombia / Armed conflict, pollution, and health risks: A risk evaluation of three sources of environmental exposure associated with the conflict in Colombia

Resumen | Introducción. Los conflictos armados afectan los territorios ricos en recursos y biodiversidad; el daño ambiental causado por las acciones violentas puede afectar la salud de las poblaciones. Objetivos. Evaluar los riesgos para la salud humana debidos a la degradación ambiental asociada con tres acciones violentas en el marco del conflicto armado colombiano: la voladura de oleoductos, la minería informal con mercurio y la aspersión de cultivos ilícitos con glifosato. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo una evaluación cuantitativa de los riesgos para la salud individual asociados con actividades del conflicto armado, usando metodologías que tienen en cuenta la ruta de dispersión de los contaminantes, su concentración en el ambiente, la exposición de los individuos y los riesgos de efectos cancerígenos y no cancerígenos. Resultados. La evaluación de los riesgos asociados con las acciones en el marco del conflicto armado analizadas, evidenció un riesgo cancerígeno intolerable y uno no cancerígeno inaceptable debidos al consumo de agua y peces contaminados por hidrocarburos aromáticos policíclicos, mercurio y glifosato. Conclusiones. El estudio reafirmó las conexiones inextricables que existen entre ambiente, sociedad y salud, y las implicaciones de la violencia ambiental para la salud pública de los grupos poblacionales vulnerables y, en general, para el bienestar de todos los seres vivos afectados por el conflicto armado.

Abstract | Introduction: Armed conflicts affect territories rich in resources and biodiversity. As a result of the environmental damage caused by violent actions, the health of populations can be affected. Objectives: To assess the risks to human health due to environmental degradation associated with three violent actions in the context of the Colombian armed conflict: Pipeline bombing, informal mining with mercury, and spraying of illicit crops with glyphosate. Materials and methods: We conducted a quantitative evaluation of the risks to individual health associated with armed conflict activities using methodologies focused on the routes of pollutants dispersion, their concentrations in the environment, the exposure of the individuals, and the risks of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects. Results: The risk assessment of the armed conflict-related actions under study evidenced intolerable carcinogenic risk and unacceptable non-carcinogenic risk due to the consumption of water and fish contaminated by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), mercury, and glyphosate. Conclusions: The study reiterates the inextricable connections existing among the environment, society, and health, as well as the implications of environmental violence for the public health of vulnerable population groups and, in general, for the well-being of all living beings affected by the armed conflict.

Assessment of total mercury content in tissues of Mullus argentinae in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil / Avaliação de mercúrio total em tecido comestível de Mullus argetinae coletados no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil

This study has as objective to determine total mercury (Total Hg) levels by atomic absorption spectrophotometry in 134 individuals edible part of Mullus argentinae, in two different fishing areas and two seasons in Rio de Janeiro State. Also, proximate composition was performed. Total Hg results in wet weight basis ranged from 0.0867 to 0.7476 µg.g-1 in muscle; 0.0023 to 0,1034 µg.g-1 in flippers; and 0.0177 to 0.1849 µg.g-1 in skin. Mean evaluated moisture was 73.39%; protein was 18.76%; lipid concentration of 5.36%; carbohydrates of 2.35%; and ashes were 0.85%.Results showed that Total Hg contents was lower than accepted limits established by regulatory organization. Higher averages were observed in muscle (0.2441 µg.g-1) when compared with skin (0.2386 µg.g-1) and flippers (0.0195 µg.g-1). In general, samples collected on summer showed higher values of total Hg when comparing to winter. Regarding beach areas there was no significant difference (p>0.05). We can conclude that this specie should be cautious consumed because of total Hg bioaccumulation characteristics, although neither levels were above limits established.

O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o teor de mercúrio no tecido comestível de Mullus argentinae, conhecido como peixe trilha, espécie amplamente consumida no Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. Foi determinado o teor de mercúrio total (Hg total) por espectrofotometria de absorção atômica em 134 amostras, coletados em duas áreas e estações climáticas diferentes. Além disso, foi avaliada a composição centesimal das amostras. Os resultados de Hg total em peso úmido variaram de 0,0867 a 0,7476 µg.g-1 no músculo; 0,0023 a 0,1034 µg.g-1 nas nadadeiras; e 0,0177 a 0,1849 µg.g-1 na pele. Os valores médios da composição centesimal foram de 73,30% de umidade, 18,76% de proteína, 5,36% de lipídios, 2,35% de carboidratos e 0,85% de matéria mineral. Os resultados das 134 amostras analisadas demostraram que os teores de Hg Total apresentam concentração inferior aos limites aceitos pelos órgãos reguladores. As maiores médias foram observadas no músculo (0,2441 µg.g-1) quando comparadas à pele (0,2386 µg.g-1) e nadadeiras (0,0195 µg.g-1). Em geral, as amostras coletadas no verão apresentaram maiores valores de Hg total em relação ao inverno. Em relação aos locais de coleta não houve diferença significativa (p> 0,05). Podemos concluir que esta espécie deve ser consumida com cautela devido às características de bioacumulação do Hg total, apesar das médias apresentadas estarem abaixo dos limites estabelecidos pela legislação.

Bioconcentración de metales pesados (Zn, Hg, Pb) en tejidos de Ariopsis felis y Diplodus annularis en el río Ranchería, norte de Colombia / Bioconcentration of heavy metals (Zn, Hg, Pb) in tissues of Ariopsis felis and Diplodus annularis in the Ranchería river, Northern Colombia

RESUMEN La contaminación por metales pesados en los ecosistemas acuáticos en el planeta es una de las más severas problemáticas que comprometen la seguridad alimentaria a nivel local, regional y global. En este estudio, se aborda el problema específico de la bioconcentración de mercurio (Hg), plomo (Pb) y Zinc (Zn) en los tejidos orgánicos de 2 de las especies de peces (Ariopsis felis y Diplodus annularis) de mayor importancia alimenticia para los pobladores rivereños del río Ranchería, al norte de Colombia. Las muestras de tejido orgánico se sometieron a una digestión ácida (HNO3 y HClO 4 en relación 3:1) y la cuantificación de los metales se realizó por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica. Adicionalmente, se midieron los niveles de los metales en el sedimento, con el objeto de determinar índices de calidad medioambientales, lo que permitió determinar que los metales pesados no presentan riesgo para los organismos acuáticos que habitan en esta zona. Se encontraron diferentes valores de concentración de metales pesados: en orden decreciente, Zn > Hg > Pb, en sedimento, y Hg > Zn > Pb, en el tejido biológico. Los resultados muestran que las concentraciones de los metales pesados presentes en el tejido de los peces y en el sedimento guardan una correlación positiva y una regresión lineal estadísticamente significativa (p = 0,001, p < 0,05). La presencia de metales pesados en el sedimento del río y de bioconcentrados en los peces podría derivarse de fuentes puntuales y difusas relacionadas con actividades agrícolas, pecuarias, mineras y aguas residuales.

ABSTRACT Heavy metal pollution in aquatic ecosystems in the area is one of the most severe problems that compromise food security at the local, regional and global levels. In this study, the specific problem of the bioconcentration of mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn) in 2 of the higher nutritional importance fish species (Ariopsis felis and Diplodus annularis) for the riverside inhabitants of the Ranchería river, in northern Colombia, is addressed. The organic tissue samples were subjected to acid digestion (HNO3 and HClO4 in a 3:1 ratio), and the quantification of metals was carried out by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Additionally, the levels of metals in the sediment were measured, in order to determine environmental quality indices. This allow to determine that heavy metals do not present a risk to the aquatic organisms that inhabit this area. Different heavy metal concentration values were found: in decreasing order, Zn> Hg> Pb in sediment, and Hg> Zn> Pb in biological tissue. The results reveal that the concentrations of heavy metals present in fish tissue and sediment show a positive correlation, and a statistically significant linear regression (p = 0,001, p < 0,05). The presence of heavy metals in river sediment and bioconcentrates in fish could derive from point and diffuse sources related to agricultural, livestock, mining and wastewater activities.

Total mercury exposure risk and selenium content measuring on fishery products consumed by women of childbearing age from Bogota, Colombia / Riesgo de exposición a mercurio total y medición del contenido de selenio en productos de la pesca consumidos por mujeres en edad fértil de Bogotá, Colombia

Background: Dietary exposure to mercury in women of childbearing age could result in neurological effects on the fetus. A health risk assessment of total mercury by fishery products intake has not been conducted in this population group in Bogota, Colombia. On the other hand, it has been suggested that selenium content on fishery products may have a protective effect against mercury toxicity. Nevertheless, selenium content on fish species marketed in Bogota has not been determined. Objective: Exposure risk to total mercury and selenium content on fishery products consumed by women of childbearing age from Bogota, Colombia, were assessed. Methods: Total mercury and selenium concentrations for products available at fish stores and supermarkets were determined. The exposure risk to total mercury was estimated considering the intake of these products by women of childbearing age group. Results: Total mercury highest concentrations were 0.8166 mg/kg in mota (Calophysusmacropterus), and 0.6275 mg/kg in catfish (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum). On the other hand, the highest selenium concentration was 0.6471 mg/kg in nicuro (Pimelodus blochii). Finally, it was established that for women of childbearing age group, health risk of exposure to total mercury due to mota intake exceeded by 8.56-fold the reference dose. Conclusions:Mota intake considerably increases exposure risk to total mercury on women of childbearing age from Bogota, Colombia. The selenium levels established in the fishery products assessed, except for catfish and mota, are theoretically suggestive of a protective effect of selenium against mercury toxicity. Consequently, continuous total mercury concentrations monitoring is required to protect health of women of childbearing age and the general population from Bogota, Colombia

Antecedentes: La exposición dietética al mercurio en mujeres en edad fértil podría provocar efectos neurológicos en el feto. En Bogotá, Colombia no se han realizado evaluaciones de riesgo por la exposición al mercurio total debido a la ingesta de productos de la pesca en este grupo de la población. Por otro lado, ha sido sugerido que el contenido de selenio en los productos de la pesca podría tener un efecto protector frente a la toxicidad por mercurio, sin embargo, el contenido de selenio en las especies de peces comercializadas en Bogotá, Colombia no ha sido determinado. Objetivo: Evaluar el riesgo de exposición al mercurio total y el contenido de selenio en los productos de la pesca consumidos por las mujeres en edad fértil de Bogotá, Colombia. Métodos: Se determinaron las concentraciones de mercurio total y selenio en distintos productos de la pesca disponibles en pescaderías y supermercados. El riesgo de exposición a mercurio total se estimó considerando la ingesta de estos productos por parte de un grupo de mujeres en edad fértil. Resultados: Las concentraciones más altas de mercurio total fueron de 0.8166 mg/kg en mota (Calophysus macropterus) y 0.6275 mg/kg en bagre (Pseudoplatystoma tigrinum). Por otro lado, la concentración más alta de selenio fue de 0.6471 mg/kg en nicuro (Pimelodus blochii). Finalmente, se estableció que el riesgo de exposición a mercurio total, debido a la ingesta de mota, excedió en 8.56 veces la dosis de referencia en el grupo de mujeres en edad fértil. Conclusiones: La ingesta de mota aumenta el riesgo de exposición al mercurio total en las mujeres en edad fértil de Bogotá, Colombia. Por otro lado, los niveles de selenio identificados en los productos evaluados, excepto en bagre y mota, teóricamente sugieren un posible efecto protector del selenio contra la toxicidad por mercurio. Considerando lo indicado, es necesario realizar un monitoreo continuo de las concentraciones de mercurio total en los productos de la pesca, con el fin de proteger la salud de las mujeres en edad fértil y de la población general de Bogotá, Colombia

Exposição a metais em população adulta residente em áreas industriais: revisão sistemática da literatura / Exposure to metals in the adult population living in industrial areas: a systematic review of the literature

Resumo Este artigo objetivou revisar os estudos de biomonitoramento humano (BMH) que avaliaram a exposição a chumbo (Pb), cádmio (Cd), mercúrio (Hg), níquel (Ni), arsênio (As) e manganês (Mn) em adultos residentes próximo a áreas industriais. Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática, sem limite de data inicial até dezembro de 2017, utilizando a base de dados da MEDLINE e a BVS. Foram incluídos estudos originais em inglês, português ou espanhol, com uso de sangue e/ou urina como biomarcador. Os artigos foram avaliados pelos critérios metodológicos, incluindo-se estudos com grupo de comparação e/ou amostragem probabilística. Dos 28 estudos incluídos, 54% foram realizados na Europa, 36% na Ásia, 7% na América do Norte e 4% na África. Fundições, metalúrgicas e siderúrgicas foram as indústrias mais estudadas. Urina e sangue foram usados em 82% e 50% dos estudos, respectivamente. Os elementos mais investigados foram Cd, Pb e As. Embora com metodologias heterogêneas, em geral, os estudos observaram maiores concentrações de metais em expostos, especialmente As e Hg, do que nos grupos de comparação. Esta revisão evidencia a necessidade de estudos de BMH com maior rigor metodológico, reforçando a importância da vigilância em saúde de populações expostas a metais tóxicos, sobretudo nos países em desenvolvimento.

Abstract This study aimed to review studies of human biomonitoring (HBM) that evaluated exposure to lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), arsenic (As) and manganese (Mn) in adults living close to industrial areas. A systematic review of studies was selected, without initial date limit through to December 2017, from the MEDLINE and BVS databases. Original studies in English, Portuguese or Spanish conducted among the adult population using blood and/or urine as biomarkers were included. The articles were evaluated according to methodological criteria, including studies with comparison groups and/or probabilistic sampling. Of the 28 studies selected, 54% were conducted in Europe, 36% in Asia, 7% in North America and 4% in Africa. Foundries, metal works and steel mills were the most frequently studied. Urine and blood were used in 82% and 50% of studies, respectively. The elements most investigated were Cd, Pb and As. Despite using heterogeneous methodologies, the results revealed higher metal concentrations, especially from As and Hg in general, than in the comparison group. This review highlights the need for more rigorous methodological studies of HBM, stressing the importance of public health vigilance among populations exposed to toxic metals, especially in developing countries.