Article
Engineering, Environmental
Yuping Xiang, Ailing Zhu, Yingying Guo, Guangliang Liu, Baowei Chen, Bin He, Yong Liang, Yongguang Yin, Yong Cai, Guibin Jiang
Summary: Iron sulfide nanoparticles (FeSNp) have shown to significantly reduce the bioavailability of both Hg(II) and MeHg in aquatic environments, inhibiting MeHg production and integration into food webs, although there is a potential risk of release when the sorbed contaminants are oxidized, increasing exposure risk to aquatic organisms. These findings provide valuable information for the development of in situ Hg remediation systems.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Chongyang Qin, Xiaoyu Xu
Summary: This study investigated the potential for mercury (Hg) methylation in two different aquatic systems. One system, Fourmile Creek (FMC), had a history of Hg pollution from groundwater, while the other, the H02 constructed wetland, only received atmospheric Hg deposition. The study found that FMC had a stronger Hg methylation potential and higher Hg bioavailability compared to the H02 wetland, which was attributed to differences in microbial communities. This study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring and sustainable ecological modifications for Hg-contaminated sites.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Jeffrey K. Wickliffe, Maureen Y. Lichtveld, C. Wilco Zijlmans, Sigrid MacDonald-Ottevanger, Martin Shafer, Christa Dahman, Emily W. Harville, Stacy Drury, Gwendolyn Landburg, Paul Ouboter
Summary: Previous research in Suriname has found high concentrations of mercury in hair of women and children in rural interior communities, as well as in freshwater fish. Pregnant women from interior communities have significantly higher concentrations of total and methylmercury in hair compared to those from urban coastal cities. Mercury exposures in pregnant women in Suriname are largely influenced by diet and fish consumption, with methylmercury making up the majority of total mercury in both blood and hair.
JOURNAL OF EXPOSURE SCIENCE AND ENVIRONMENTAL EPIDEMIOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Jin Zhang, Chengjun Li, Wenli Tang, Mengjie Wu, Mingying Chen, Huan He, Pei Lei, Huan Zhong
Summary: Wetlands are important areas for studying mercury (Hg) biogeochemistry and have attracted global attention. A literature analysis of 15,813 publications on Hg in wetlands was conducted, revealing the changing focus of research over time. The research priorities for future studies include understanding the factors controlling methylmercury (MeHg) production, demethylation processes, bioaccumulation, and the role of wetlands in Hg circulation.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Laure Laffont, Johanna Menges, Sylvaine Goix, Sophie Gentes, Regine Maury-Brachet, Jeroen E. Sonke, Alexia Legeay, Patrice Gonzalez, Raphaelle Rinaldo, Laurence Maurice
Summary: The study in French Guiana aimed to investigate the impact of gold-mining activities on mercury concentrations and isotopic signatures in freshwater fish consumed by local residents. Analysis of Hg concentrations and isotopic ratios in fish muscles revealed differences in biogeochemical processes between fish from impacted and pristine areas, indicating potential influences of suspended particles on mercury concentrations. The study also highlighted the potential of Hg isotopes in fish as complementary tracers to understand the sources and processes of mercury accumulation in aquatic ecosystems.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Delali Tulasi, Vesna Fajon, Joze Kotnik, Yaroslav Shlyapnikov, Dennis K. Adotey, Yaw Serfor-Armah, Milena Horvat
Summary: Studies on the influence of cyanide on mercury methylation rates in aquatic systems draining gold mining communities in Africa are rare. This study in Southwestern Ghana found that the presence of cyanide potentially influences and enhances the solubility and mobility of mercury in river sediments, leading to increased mercury methylation rates.
ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT
(2021)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Qian Yang, Yongjie Wang, Huan Zhong
Summary: The application of biochar has shown effectiveness in reducing risks associated with mercury contamination in soils and sediments by decreasing the mobility of inorganic Hg and reducing the bioavailability and accumulation of MeHg in crops. However, uncertainties and complexities still exist in understanding the underlying mechanisms of biochar's impact on Hg bioaccumulation. Further research is needed to develop a mechanistic understanding for the development of sustainable biochar-based materials to mitigate Hg-related health risks.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ewa Korejwo, Dominika Saniewska, Jacek Beldowaki, Piotr Balazy, Michal Saniewski
Summary: Polar regions play a crucial role in the global mercury cycle and serve as interesting research sites due to potential different sources of mercury. Understanding mercury transformations in the Arctic is challenging due to the region being in transition and highly impacted by global climate change. Benthic organisms are valuable bioindicators of heavy metal contamination.
MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Karina Caballero-Gallardo, Jenny Palomares-Bolanos, Jesus Olivero-Verbel
Summary: This study assessed the concentrations of mercury in different environmental matrices from two territories of Afro-descendant communities and found that the Teta River is a hotspot for mercury pollution in the area. The mercury levels in local fish exceeded the limits set by the World Health Organization, posing considerable health risks for children, pregnant women, and adults.
WATER AIR AND SOIL POLLUTION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Aming Qin, Shu Ran, Tianrong He, Deliang Yin, Yiyuan Xu
Summary: Soil composition can influence the behavior and bioavailability of soil mercury (Hg) by altering its chemical properties and soil texture.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Stefanie Helmrich, Dimitri Vlassopoulos, Charles N. Alpers, Peggy A. O'Day
Summary: Mercury is a global health concern, especially harmful for fetuses and children. Methylmercury is an environmentally relevant form of mercury, and its production and transformation rates are crucial for management.
CRITICAL REVIEWS IN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Geochemistry & Geophysics
Carluvy Baptista-Salazar, Van Van Liem-Nguyen, Sofi Jonsson
Summary: Methylation and demethylation processes play a crucial role in controlling the concentration of monomethylmercury (MeHg) in natural environments. The formation of refractory MeHg pools in sediments and soils, which are not readily available for demethylation, is an important factor that contributes to the overall pool of MeHg.
GEOCHIMICA ET COSMOCHIMICA ACTA
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Dandan Duan, Pei Lei, Wenlu Lan, Tianshen Li, Hao Zhang, Huan Zhong, Ke Pan
Summary: This study investigated the concentrations of total mercury and methylmercury in sediments from seven mangrove forests in China, finding that litterfall plays a significant role in regulating the levels of mercury. The organic matter in the sediments was predominantly derived from litterfall, influencing the accumulation of MeHg. Furthermore, the addition of mangrove litter stimulated the production of MeHg under anaerobic conditions, suggesting that litterfall acts as a source of inorganic Hg and labile carbon, facilitating Hg methylation.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Maria Elena Crespo-Lopez, Gabriela P. Arrifano, Marcus Augusto-Oliveira, Barbarella M. Macchi, Rafael R. Lima, Jose Luiz M. do Nascimento, Carlos B. A. Souza
Summary: Amazon conservation is crucial as the region is a major source of global mercury emissions. Brazilian legislation on mining and trade, as well as economic interests in soy, beef, and large-scale projects, contribute to the release of mercury in the Amazon, which can have global environmental impacts. To effectively address this issue, it is necessary to consider the interconnected issues of exports and energy generation, and to understand the complex economic, social, political, and international aspects. Recommendations are proposed for international agencies, governments, communities, and the private sector.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Yueqian Chen, Yingying Guo, Yanwei Liu, Yuping Xiang, Guangliang Liu, Qinghua Zhang, Yongguang Yin, Yong Cai, Guibin Jiang
Summary: Mercury and its organic compounds pose significant threats to the environment and human health. Microorganisms play a critical role in the methylation and demethylation of mercury in water and sediments. Bacterial whole-cell biosensors (BWCBs) offer a more accurate and cost-effective approach to assess the bioavailability of mercury compared to traditional methods. This Review provides an overview of the recent advancements in the application of BWCBs for detecting bioavailable mercury and discusses challenges, strategies, and future prospects.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Harry Gutierrez-Mosquera, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez, Gladis Morales-Mira, Luis Javier Montoya-Jaramillo, M. P. Jonathan
Summary: The study assessed total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg) levels in various environmental compartments in abandoned gold mining ponds (AGMPs) and mining areas in Western Colombia to evaluate the present environmental conditions and human health risks. The findings indicate potential chronic effects due to elevated THg levels, particularly in fish, posing a threat to human health. Monitoring of mercury species in different compartments is recommended to mitigate environmental hazards in the region.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Clelia Calao-Ramos, Andrea G. Bravo, Roberth Paternina-Uribe, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: The study assessed mercury exposure in gold miners in Colombia, finding that burning mercury and fish consumption were significant predictors of mercury exposure. Some miners had mercury concentrations above safe levels set by health organizations, indicating the need for health education programs in certain regions.
ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Carlos Salazar-Camacho, Manuel Salas-Moreno, Roberth Paternina-Uribe, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: The study revealed that gold mining activities in the Atrato River basin have deteriorated the quality of fish species, resulting in high levels of mercury pollution. The contamination was found to be distributed from high mining activity zones to low activity areas, affecting both the environment and the inhabitants in the region.
Article
Parasitology
Clelia Calao-Ramos, Daira Gaviria-Angulo, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Alfonso Calderon-Rangel, Camilo Guzman-Teran, Caty Martinez-Bravo, Salim Mattar
Summary: This study evaluated genotoxic damage and mercury concentration in bats with different dietary habits. The results showed that insectivorous bats had the highest mercury concentration in their liver and spleen, as well as the highest number of micronuclei. Additionally, bats captured in different locations showed varying levels of micronuclei and mercury contamination.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Siday Marrugo-Madrid, Manuel Salas-Moreno, Harry Gutierrez-Mosquera, Carlos Salazar-Camacho, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: To fulfill the requirements of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, it is important to monitor mercury contamination in freshwater ecosystems near artisanal and small scale gold mining (ASGM) areas. This study examined the feasibility of using the diffusive gradient in thin-films (DGT) technique to detect and quantify labile mercury and other metals in a hard-to-reach gold mining district in Colombia. The results showed that the labile mercury concentrations were higher in abandoned mining ponds compared to the river water, and the labile concentrations of other metals were related to their proximity to ASGM activities.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Leonomir Cordoba-Tovar, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Pablo Ramos Baron, Sergi Diez
Summary: Biomagnification of trace elements is increasingly evident in aquatic ecosystems, with mercury, arsenic, and selenium exhibiting different potential for biomagnification. The process is influenced by environmental and ecological factors, and involves key organisms.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Siday Marrugo-Madrid, Jose Pinedo-Hernandez, Roberth Paternina-Uribe, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: This study evaluated the risk to human health from consuming fruits, tubers, and fish contaminated with mercury and arsenic in a Colombian area affected by gold mining activities. The results showed that children and women of childbearing age had higher levels of methylmercury intake than the recommended safety limits. The intake of arsenic and mercury exceeded the safety levels for most population groups. There was also a potential risk of carcinogenicity from arsenic intake through food. Therefore, safety control mechanisms and environmental education strategies are crucial to protect the health of residents in areas impacted by gold mining activities.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Carlos Salazar-Camacho, Manuel Salas-Moreno, Siday Marrugo-Madrid, Roberth Paternina-Uribe, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: The Atrato River basin in Colombia, known for its high biodiversity, is heavily impacted by gold mining, resulting in potential human health risks from mercury and arsenic in fish. This study assessed the distribution of heavy metals in fish species and the associated health risks for inhabitants along the river basin. The results revealed high concentrations of mercury and arsenic in fish, posing potential risks to human health. Carnivorous fish species were found to have the greatest impact on inhabitants' health, with some areas exceeding the safe intake thresholds for mercury.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Cesar Argumedos De la Ossa, Andres Fernando Ramirez-Giraldo, Katy Arroyo-Alvis, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between neuropsychological performance and exposure to mercury and arsenic in Colombian children and adolescents. The findings showed that a majority of the participants had mercury and arsenic levels above the reference values, and there were significant correlations between exposure levels and certain neuropsychological test performances.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Siday Marrugo-Madrid, Claudia Fontas, Gulsah Kurt, Carlos Salazar-Camacho, Manuel Salas-Moreno, Harry Gutierrez-Mosquera, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Sergi Diez
Summary: In this study, a benzoylthiourea-based diffusive gradient in thin film (DGT) technique was developed for determining bioavailable mercury. The DGT-BTP1 gel showed stable binding capacity and satisfactory extraction performance compared to the well-established DGT-3MFS gel. Field measurements in Quito River demonstrated the effectiveness of DGT-BTP1 in monitoring mercury concentration.
ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gerlane de Medeiros Costa, Wilkinson Lopes Lazaro, Thaysa Costa Hurtado, Paulo Eduardo Teodoro, Jean Remy Davee Guimaraes, Aurea Regina Alves Ignacio, Manoel dos Santos Filho, Sergi Diez
Summary: There is still debate about the most suitable tissue to indicate mercury body burden in birds, with blood, feathers, and bill sheath being considered relevant. Feathers and bill sheath had higher mercury concentrations compared to claws, liver, and muscle. Ringed kingfishers had higher mercury values than Amazon kingfishers, and Amazon kingfishers from different rivers showed differences in mercury concentrations in claws and feathers.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Angel Cruz-Esquivel, Sergi Diez, Jose Luis Marrugo-Negrete
Summary: The study aimed to investigate the concentrations of total mercury (THg), methylmercury (MeHg), and arsenic (As), as well as their genotoxic effects on fish species in freshwater habitats impacted by gold mining activities in Northern Colombia. The results showed significant genetic damage in the exposed groups compared to the control group, as indicated by the micronucleus (MN) and erythrocytic nuclear alterations (ENA) tests. The concentrations of THg, MeHg, and As in tissue samples were also significantly higher in the exposed groups, with the Bajo Cauca region posing the highest risk.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Leonomir Cordoba-Tovar, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Pablo Andres Ramos Baron, Clelia Rosa Calao-Ramos, Sergi Diez
Summary: In this study, concentrations of mercury, methylmercury, and arsenic in the Atrato River were measured, and nuclear degenerations in the fish from the river were explored for the first time. The results showed that mercury and methylmercury concentrations in fish exceeded the WHO limit for populations at risk, while arsenic concentrations were below the international standard. Mercury concentrations in water exceeded the USEPA threshold, whereas arsenic concentrations were below the threshold. The study suggests that the Atrato River basin needs to be monitored and restored according to the Minamata Convention on Mercury.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Leonomir Cordoba-Tovar, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, Pablo Andres Ramos Baron, Sergi Diez
Summary: The Atrato River basin, an important tropical biome, has suffered severe ecological deterioration due to gold mining, posing threats to wildlife and human health. This study measured the concentrations of mercury and arsenic in sediments and assessed the associated ecological and human health risks. The results showed moderate contamination levels of mercury and increasing contamination of arsenic, indicating potential toxic risks to aquatic biota and adverse effects on human populations, particularly children.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Laura Suarez-Criado, Pablo Rodriguez-Gonzalez, Jose Marrugo-Negrete, J. Ignacio Garcia Alonso, Sergi Diez
Summary: To distinguish between routes of mercury exposure in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) communities and identify contamination sources, the study analyzed Hg species composition in human hair samples from six major gold mining regions in Colombia. The results showed that the median concentration of total mercury (THg) was higher than the reference dose recommended by the EPA, and a significant difference was observed among different fish consumption groups. The study also found that individuals involved in ASGM tasks had a higher Hg(II)/THg ratio compared to those not involved, suggesting that Hg(II) determination could be a useful indicator for evaluating direct exposure to mercury vapors.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
