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Freitas, A.d.S.d.; Pompermayer, L.L.d.O.; Santos, A.D.d.O.; Nascimento, M.T.L.d.; Saint'Pierre, T.D.; Hauser-Davis, R.A.; Baptista Neto, J.A., and da Fonseca, E.M., 2023. The geochemical sedimentary record of a historically anthropogenically impacted coastal lagoon (Rio de Janeiro State, Southeastern Brazil). Journal of Coastal Research, 39(5), 880–889. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208. Coastal lagoons provide multiple ecosystem services worldwide. However, anthropogenic activities associated to land use changes and accelerated urban development has led to significant amounts of pollutant inputs, especially trace elements, into these environments. To assess land use changes due to accelerated urban development during the last decades the state of Rio de Janeiro, 15 surface sediment samples and one sediment core were analysed for the first time at Padre Lagoon, in southeastern Rio de Janeiro, with regard to radiocarbon dating, grain size, and pseudototal trace element concentrations. The age of the bottom core ranged from 470–314 cal yr BP determined by 14C radiocarbon dating. Pseudototal trace element concentrations were significantly different between the sediment core and the surface sediments and higher trace element levels were observed at the top of the sediment core and in all surface sediment samples, indicating high anthropogenic influence to the lagoon over time, both due to local urbanization and from atmospheric pollution from the industrial metropolitan region of the city of Rio de Janeiro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescent lamps are hazardous materials, as they contain toxic elements, which may lead to environmental contamination. Therefore, assessing potential environmental impacts arising from inadequate lamp disposal is paramount. Studies addressing the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) of end-of-life fluorescent lamps are, however, still scarce, and inappropriate lamp disposal remains a matter of concern, especially in developing and underdeveloped countries. In Brazil, fluorescent lamps are still used countrywide and are often inadequately discarded. However, studies assessing fluorescent lamp impacts and potential impact reduction through enhanced recycling are still scarce in the country, despite Brazil's size and high waste generation rates. Furthermore, Brazil's lamp recycling program is a recent measure and still falls short of the country's needs. Thus, this study aimed to assess potential environmental impacts of end-of-life fluorescent lamps in Rio de Janeiro, the second largest capital in Brazil, to the best of our knowledge, for the first time. Potential impact reductions due to higher recycling program adherence considering 5, 20, 80 and 100 % recycling rates were also assessed. The findings indicate that the impact categories most influenced by end-of-life lamps were terrestrial ecotoxicity, human non-carcinogenic toxicity, global warming potential, and fossil resource scarcity. Increased recycling rates, in turn, reduced the environmental impact potential for all evaluated categories, reaching an almost 90 % reduction in most categories when applying a 100 % recycling rate. The current national program target recycling rate of 20 %, however, already contributes to an average impact reduction of over 70 %, comprising a more viable national application rate and already significantly contributing to reduced impacts. [Display omitted] • Most fluorescent lamps are discarded without treatment. • Hg is not the only element of environmental and human health risk. • The most significant impact is observed for terrestrial ecotoxicity. • Non-carcinogenic human toxicity is the second greatest impact. • A 20% increase in recycling rate already reduces approximately 70% of impacts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guanabara Bay (GB) is a highly contaminated estuarine system and an important fishing area in Southeastern Brazil. In this regard, knowledge concerning the association of certain contaminants in seafood to abiotic factors and human health risk assessments is still understudied. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify nine toxic elements in highly consumed crabs, shrimp, and squid, and associate the results with abiotic factors. A human health risk assessment was also performed. Our findings indicate that crabs are the main bioaccumulators. Transparency and depth were noteworthy for all three taxonomic groups. In general, contaminant concentrations were below the limits established by different international agencies, except for As, which was higher than the Brazilian limit (1 mg kg−1). However, the Hazard Index identified risks to consumer health for the ingestion of seafood. This study emphasizes the importance of jointly evaluating different toxic elements, for a more accurate health risk assessment. [Display omitted] • Environmental factors favor metal contamination in seafood and affect human health. • We quantified nine metals in highly consumed invertebrates from a polluted estuary. • The results obtained by ICP-MS were applied in a risk assessment. • The interaction between the metals was indicative of a risk to the human health. • Monitoring contaminated regions is essential to predict impacts to humans and animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Titanium (Ti) is considered a contaminant of emerging interest, as it displays toxic potential and has been increasingly employed in everyday products, pharmaceuticals, and food additives, mainly in nanoparticle form. However, several knowledge gaps are still noted, especially concerning its dynamics in the water. In this context, this study aimed to quantify total Ti concentrations in highly consumed swimming crabs, squid, and shrimp from an important estuary located in southeastern Brazil. Ti concentrations were higher than those reported in most studies carried out worldwide. Animal length and weight, as well as, depth, transparency, dissolved oxygen, and salinity, significantly influence Ti concentrations in the animals. Human health risks were also noted after calculating a simulated exposure to titanium dioxide, especially considering the uncertainties regarding the effects of this element and the absence of regulatory limits. • Titanium is used in many everyday products and is considered an emerging contaminant. • Titanium was quantified in muscles samples of swimming crab, shrimp, and squid. • Biometric and abiotic factors influence Titanium concentrations in the animals. • The metal concentrations found here were higher than in other works around the world. • The assessment of exposure to Titanium indicated potential risk to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal contamination has never been assessed in Ampullae of Lorenzini. This study employed Rhizoprionodon lalandii , as an ecotoxicological model to investigate potential metal accumulation in Ampullae of Lorenzini jelly. No differences between sexes were observed regarding jelly metal concentrations at Rio das Ostras (RJ) or Santos (SP). Statistically significant correlations were noted between total lengths (TL) and condition factors and several metals at both sampling sites, demonstrating the potential for Chondrichthyan sensory capacity disruption and possible effects on foraging success. Maternal metal transfer to Ampullae jelly was confirmed. Rhizoprionodon lalandii is thus, a good model to assess Ampullae of Lorenzini contamination, as this electrosensory organ seems to be highly vulnerable to metal contamination. [Display omitted] • Metal Ampullae of Lorenzini jelly contamination was investigated for the first-time in Rhizoprionodon lalandii. • No inter-sex jelly metal differences were observed comparing two contaminated sampling sites. • Several metals were correlated to total length and relative condition factors. • Maternal metal transfer to the Ampullae jelly was confirmed. • Chondrichthyan sensory capacity disruption and reduced foraging success are a possibility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study comprises a novel report on subcellular metal partitioning and metallothionein (MT) metal detoxification efforts in lesser numbfish (Narcine brasiliensis) electric ray specimens, as well as the first assessment on MT contents in any ray electric organ. Individuals sampled from an area in Southeastern Brazil affected by the Mariana dam rupture disaster were assessed concerning subcellular metal partitioning and MT metal-detoxification in the liver, gonads, electric organ and muscle of both adults and embryos. Yolk was also assessed when available. Relative total and heat-stable (bioavailable) metal and metalloid comparisons between adults and embryos in different developmental stages demonstrates maternal transfer of both total and bioavailable metals and significant MT associations demonstrate the detoxification of As, Ag, Mn, Ni, Cd, Co, Cu, Se and V through this biochemical pathway. Our findings expand the lacking ecotoxicological assessments for this near-threatened species and indicates significant ecological concerns, warranting further biomonitoring efforts. [Display omitted] • Novel subcellular metal partitioning findings are reported for lesser numbfish. • Novel metallothionein (MT) content sand metal detoxification data are also reported. • Maternal transfer of several bioavailable metals and metalloids was observed. • MT detoxification of both total and bioavailable metals and metalloids was detected. • Embryos are already born contaminated by metals, many in bioavailable form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study comprises the first record of a juvenile Giant Devil Ray specimen for Rio de Janeiro, Southeastern Brazil, and its metal and metalloid contents. A scientometric assessment was also performed for the Manta and Mobula genera. Only five records were found, and only As, Cd, Pb, Hg, Pt, Pd and Rh have been assessed. All studies but one concerned human consumption. A significant knowledge gap on metal and metalloid ecotoxicology for mobulid rays is noted, indicating the emergence of a new field of research that th may be applied for wildlife conservation and management in response to anthropogenic contamination. Our study is also the first to provide Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Sr, Ti, V and Zn contents for muscle, liver, brain and kidney for a mobulid ray and one of the scarce reports concerning As, Cd, Hg and Pb in muscle, liver and kidney. • First record of a Giant Devil Ray for Rio de Janeiro, Brazil • First report for Al, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Sr, Ti, V and Zn in a mobulid ray • Only five elemental studies for the Manta and Mobula genera are available. • Only As, Cd, Pb, Hg, Pt, Pd and Rh have been assessed to date. • A significant knowledge gap concerning concerning elemental ecotoxicology for mobulids is noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electric ray Narcine brasiliensis is captured as by-catch along the Brazilian coast and is considered data deficient by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In the present study, toxic and essential metals in adult and embryonic N. brasiliensis specimens from Southeastern Brazil were assessed by ICP-MS. The possibility of maternal metal transfer to embryos was evaluated. Several toxic elements were detected, including in the electric organ and gonads, leading to potential behavioral and reproductive concerns. Extremely high As levels were detected, probably a direct effect of the Mariana dam rupture ocurred in 2015, where mine tailings were transported throughout the Doce River basin in Southeastern Brazil, contaminating the entire water body. Statistically significant correlations was observed for both Mn and Ag between Size Class 2 embryos and mother tissues, evidencing maternal transfer for these elements. Although no other significant associations were observed, probably due to the low sample number, several toxic metals were also detected in the assessed embryos. This baseline data will aid in future biomonitoring efforts and conservation measures. • Metals in adult and embryonic N. brasiliensis rays were determined by ICP-MS. • Several toxic elements were observed, including in the electric organ and gonads. • Extremely high As levels were observed, probably due to the Mariana disaster. • Maternal metal transfer was observed for some metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal contamination poses a significant threat to elasmobranchs, underscoring the need for targeted conservation approaches. The critically endangered Brazilian guitarfish, Pseudobatos horkelii , confronts an array of challenges, notably overexploitation, putting its survival at risk. Our study investigated the potential toxicity arising from arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) contamination across various adult guitarfish tissues from southeastern Brazil. Serological stress indicators, nutritional metabolites, and creatinine, an organ function marker, were also assessed, and Selenium (Se) levels were also investigated for possible protective effects. Our investigation unveiled significant correlations between metal concentrations and the determined physiological markers, shedding light on potential adverse effects. Remarkably, six correlations were indicative of how Hg and Pb negatively impact hepatic metabolite assimilation, while As was shown to influence renal phosphorus dynamics, Cd to affect rectal gland phosphorus regulation, and Pb to influence creatinine production in muscle tissue. Furthermore, Se demonstrated protective properties against Cd, Hg, and Pb, suggesting a role in alleviating the toxicity of these elements. Despite probable protective Se influences, the detected elemental interactions still suggest potential for organ impairment. These findings gain heightened significance within the context of the cumulative stressors faced by the Brazilian guitarfish, with metal contamination exhibiting the capacity to erode this species resilience against both anthropogenic and environmental pressures, thereby disrupting systemic equilibrium and jeopardizing wild populations. By investigating the intricate balance between metal accumulation and physiological consequences, our study contributes with crucial insights into potential conservation strategy formulations towards pollution for this critically endangered elasmobranch species. [Display omitted] • Physiological mechanism impairments were correlated with metal tissue accumulation. • As and Cd contamination potentially affects osmoregulation and enzymatic activity. • Pb contamination has the potential to compromise the integrity of muscle tissue. • Hg and Pb contamination in the liver impairs energy mobilization. • The protective effect of Se was not enough to prevent physiological alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Air quality in the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro was evaluated by analysis of particulate matter (PM) in industrial (Santa Cruz) and rural (Seropédica) areas. Total suspended particles (TSP) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5) collected in filters over 24h were quantified and their chemical composition determined. TSP exceeded Brazilian guidelines (80μgm−3) in Santa Cruz, while PM2.5 levels exceeded the World Health Organization guidelines (10μgm−3) in both locations. Filters were extracted with water and/or HNO3, and the concentrations of 20 elements, mostly metals, were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES). Water soluble inorganic anions were determined by ion chromatography (IC). To estimate the proportion of these elements extracted, a certified reference material (NIST SRM 1648a, Urban Dust) was subjected to the same extraction process. Concordant results were obtained by ICP-MS and ICP OES for most elements. Some elements could not be quantified by both techniques; the most appropriate technique was chosen in each case. The urban dust was also analyzed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) method, which employs a combination of hydrochloric and nitric acids for the extraction, but higher extraction efficiency was obtained when only nitric acid was employed. The US EPA method gave better results only for Sb. In the PM samples, the elements found in the highest average concentrations by ICP were Zn and Al (3–6μgm−3). The anions found in the highest average concentrations were SO4 2− in PM2.5 (2–4μgm−3) and Cl− in TSP (2–6μgm−3). Principal component analysis (PCA) in combination with enrichment factors (EF) indicated industrial sources in PM2.5. Analysis of TSP suggested both anthropogenic and natural sources. In conclusion, this work contributes data on air quality, as well as a method for the analysis of PM samples by ICP-MS. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A mining tailing dam rupture in Brazil in November 2015 released millions of tons of mining waste into the Rio Doce ecosystem, leading to long-term aquatic ecosystem impacts. Although multiple lines of evidence indicate tailings associations with potentially toxic elements in estuarine sediments and biological impact and bioaccumulation pathways in fishes, the extent of contamination in base benthic species is still largely unknown. Moreover, Rare Earth Elements (REE) have not received any attention in this regard. This study assessed REE in fiddler crabs (Minuca rapax) sampled from the Rio Doce estuary in 2017, nearly 2 years after the disaster. The ΣREE in crab hepatopancreas and muscle were high (327.83 mg kg -1 w.w. and 33.84 mg kg -1 w.w., respectively, compared to other assessments in crabs, indicating a preference for REE bioaccumulation in the hepatopancreas compared to muscle. Neodimium, La, and Ce were detected at the highest concentrations. The REE from the Rio Doce Basin were, thus, transported and deposited in the estuary with the mine tailings slurry, leading to bioaccumulation in crabs. This may lead to trophic effects and other ecological impacts not readily measured by typical impact assessment studies, revealing an invisible and not typically acknowledged damage to the Rio Doce estuary., Competing Interests: Declarations. Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Children are highly vulnerable to chemical exposure. Thus, metal and metalloid in infant formulas are a concern, although studies in this regard are still relatively scarce. Thus, the presence of aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, tin, mercury, lead, and uranium was investigated in infant formulas marketed in Brazil by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and the Target Hazard Quotients (THQ) and Target Cancer Risk (TCR) were calculated in to assess the potential risk of toxicity for children who consume these products continuously. Aluminum ranging from 0.432 ± 0.049 to 1.241 ± 0.113 mg·kg -1 , arsenic from 0.012 ± 0.009 to 0.034 ± 0.006 mg·kg -1 , and tin from 0.007 ± 0.003 to 0.095 ± 0.024 mg·kg -1 were the major elements, while cadmium and uranium were present at the lowest concentrations. According to the THQ, arsenic contents in infant formulas showed a THQ > 1, indicating potential health risk concerns for newborns or children. Minimal carcinogenic risks were observed for the elements considered carcinogenic. Metabolic and nutritional interactions are also discussed. This study indicates the need to improve infant formula surveillance concerning contamination by potentially toxic and carcinogenic elements.

Perna perna mussels, abundant throughout the Brazilian coast, are routinely applied as bioindicators in environmental monitoring actions due to their sessile and filter-feeding characteristics. In addition, they are noteworthy for their food importance, especially for coastal populations. In this context, the aim of this study was to investigate elemental contamination in commercially marketed and highly consumed P. perna samples from the highly impacted Guanabara Bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. A total of 30 mussels were sampled, and elemental concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se, V, and Zn) were determined in adductor muscle samples by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Human consumption risks were assessed by comparisons to Brazilian and international legislations. No significant differences between sex were observed for all analyzed elements. Even when analyzing only the adductor muscle, all mussel samples exceeded the Brazilian limit for Cr, while 12 samples exceeded the limit for Se. When compared to other regulatory agencies, As and Zn levels were higher than the limits set by China, New Zealand, and the USA. Estimated daily dietary intake values were not above limits imposed by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization for any of the assessed elements, although it is important to note that only the adductor muscle was assessed. Therefore, continuous metal and metalloid monitoring in bivalves in the study region is suggested, as metal transport and bioavailability, especially in coastal estuaries such as Guanabara Bay, which are currently undergoing significant changes due to anthropogenic activities., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC part of Springer Nature.)

Aerosol particle samples (PM10) were collected at urban, industrial and rural sites located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, between October 2008 and September 2009. Aerosol samples for each site were analyzed for total and soluble metals, water-soluble ions, carboxylic acids, and water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC). The results showed that the mean PM10 concentrations were 34 μg m(-3); 47 μg m(-3) and 71 μg m(-3) at the rural, urban and industrial sites, respectively. An increase in the average concentration of these particles due to air stagnation was observed during the period from May to September for all sites, and an increase in hospitalization for respiratory problems was also reported. On average, the anions species represented 4 to 14% of total content, while cations species corresponded to 1 to 11% and 7.5% for WSOC. The overall metal content at the industrial site was nearly the double that at the rural site. The concentrations of the studied species are influenced mainly by site location and the specific characteristics present at each site. However, higher concentrations of some species were observed on particular dates and were probably due to biomass burning and African dust events. The acid/aqueous percentiles showed that the most efficiently extracted metals from the aqueous phase were V and Ni (40%), while Al and Fe represented a lower percentage (<3%). Analysis of the aqueous fraction provides important information about the bioavailability of metals that is associated with the inflammatory process in the lungs.