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Mine tailings left at abandoned sulfide mine sites can seriously threaten surrounding ecosystems and cause soil and water pollution. This study focused on determining the geochemical processes and mineral phases controlling metal cycling in an abandoned copper mine site (Kuvarshan, Artvin, northeastern Turkey). Geochemical and mineralogical characterization studies were conducted to determine the chemical and mineral compositions of the tailings, leachates, and AMD products. In addition, kinetic tests and geochemical modeling studies were performed on the tailings to evaluate the rates and mechanisms of metal release. Oxidation of pyrite in the tailings played an important role in the formation of acidic mine drainages (pH ≈ 2.7–3.1) with high sulfate and metal contents. Sequestration of Fe and As in the AMD was controlled by jarosite precipitation. A large fraction of the total Fe (73%) and As (98%) remained in the suspended phase in the acidic water. Furthermore, the local precipitation of aragonite from alkaline mine leachates also removed zinc, copper, arsenic, and lead ions from the solution, and minimized the release of these metals into the environment. On the other hand, dissolution of secondary sulfate mineral precipitates (i.e. chalcoalumite, chalcocyanite, goslarite, coquimbite, and rozenite) contributed to the enrichment of Al, Cu, Fe, Zn, As, and Pb in the mine leachates and metal loading into a nearby stream during the wet period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arundo donax and Phragmites australis were examined in 4 different periods (June and October for 2 years), heavy metal and mineral element accumulations in plants were evaluated, and water-soil-plant relationships were revealed. Element distributions, bioaccumulation factors (BAF) and translocation factors (TF) in different parts of the investigated plant species were also determined. BAFs of elements calculated by using the concentration values in underground parts and sediment samples were between 1.02 and 4.96. While the highest TF was determined as 8.07 for Zn between washed leaf and stem in A. donax, the lowest TF was determined as 0.05 for Fe between stem and underground part. Corresponding highest and lowest TFs for P. australis were 11.80 for Cu between washed leaf and stem, and 0.02 for Fe between stem and underground part, respectively. The results were supported by MANOVA statistical analyzes. Additionally, the macro-micro elements and heavy metal accumulation levels in the parts of the Orontes River ecosystem were significantly higher in the fall periods compared to the spring periods. Our research revealed that the versatile accumulation properties and high accumulation ability of A. donax for Cd, Cr, and Ni and of P. australis for Cd, Co, Cu, Ni, Pb, and Zn. The Orontes River passes through the regions of three different countries with high population density and developed economies. This study presents the current state of the relationship between the element types and their concentrations in the sediments in the Orontes River ecosystem and the ecophysiological parameters of the river. In this study, the focus was on the Türkiye-Hatay region of the Orontes River, the water-soil-plant relationship in this region was revealed in detail, and valuable data were compiled for researchers who will conduct research on the river ecophysiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the human health risk posed by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in 59 bottled mineral water (BMW) samples of 25 different brands marketed in Turkey. The concentrations of Ag, Al, As, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, and Pb in the BMW samples were analyzed using an ICP-OES and compared with maximum allowable concentrations (MACs). A higher concentration of As than MAC was detected in five BMW samples. The concentrations of Cd, Pb, Cr, Ni, and Al in the majority of BMW samples are higher than the MACs. The human health risk was evaluated for adults estimating non-carcinogenic risk index (HI), incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) and total cancer risk (TCR). All HI values estimated for PTEs in BMW samples are less than one, except for one sample. ILCR values for Cd in approximately half of the BMW samples are above the upper limit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tobacco plants grown in cadmium (Cd)-contaminated soils accumulate high concentration of Cd in leaves and the Cd in leaves can readily be transferred to the human body through smoking of cigarettes. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of four soil Cd concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 20 mg kg−1) on leaf Cd, zinc (Zn), and nitrogen (N) concentrations and nicotine, reducing sugar and phenolic compounds of sun-cured Canik 190/5, Xanthi 81, and Birlik 124 varieties grown in a semi-arid condition of Turkey. Increasing doses of Cd did not significantly decrease leaf yield of tobacco cultivars, while significant (p <.05) increase and decrease were recorded in leaf Cd and Zn concentrations, respectively. The highest leaf Cd concentration was accumulated in Birlik 124 (60.5 mg kg−1), and the lowest in Canik 190/5 (55.35 mg kg−1) variety. Nicotine concentration of Xanthi 81 and Birlik 124 cultivars in the highest Cd dose (Cd20) increased compared to the nicotine in control application, while nicotine concentration of Canik 190/5 cultivars decreased in Cd20 dose. The results revealed that all three tobacco varieties were able to accumulate Cd in their leaves under high soil Cd levels. The effects of Cd on N uptake and nicotine, reducing sugar and phenolic compounds were different among the tobacco varieties. The result may be associated with differences in responses of tobacco cultivars to soil Cd concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

This study was performed to determine heavy metals and metalloids in twenty-eight chestnut (Castanea sativa Miller) samples consumed in Turkey by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and evaluate health risks for humans through the consumption of chestnut samples. The concentrations of Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Pb, Mn, Ni and Zn analyzed in chestnut samples varied from 537 to 635, 608 to 5333, 347 to 972, 207 to 8619, 12,739 to 86,310, 278 to 7549, 8676 to 67,622, 1068 to 18,661 and 3625 to 12,876 µg/kg (dry weight), respectively. The concentrations of Cd and Pb were above the maximum limits determined by the Turkish Food Codex. Healthy risks caused by the heavy metals in the consumed chestnut samples were evaluated by estimating the average daily intake of metal, health risk index (HRI), and total HRI. These results revealed that there is no possible health risk to consumers due to the intake of chestnut samples studied under the current consumption rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, it was aimed to identify mushrooms gathered from two different regions and localities of Türkiye and to determine their heavy metal and nutrient contents. Four of the mushrooms (Coprinus comatus (O.F. Müll.) Pers, Cantharellus cibarius Fr., Pleurotus ostreatus (Jacq.) P. Kumm. and Lactarius glyciosmus (Fr.) Fr.) from nearby settlements, while the others (Hydnum repandum L., Pleurotus eryngii (DC.) Quél and Lactarius delicious (L.) Gray)) were collected from rural areas. All species have known and consume by local peoples. All identified species were given along with their trophic status, habitats, locations, Turkish names and edibility. Concentrations of elements were determined based on dry weight. The analysis of samples indicated that different result obtained from mushrooms. As (nd, 1.5-17.43), Ba (1.48-10.81), Cd (nd, 1.4-43.46), Co (nd, 12.0-42.79), Cr (nd, 5.0-14.92), Cu (12.95-143.45), K (nd, 30085-52680), Mg (nd, 5056-5955.9), Mn (52.45-187.25), Mo (nd, 1.22-57.53), Ni (43.46-565), Pb (318.9-1483.5), Sb (nd, 0.14-4.12), Si (nd, 3.18-87.83), Ti (20.32-302.2), V (67.66-102.3), Zn (1026.8-2422.0), Ca (411.5 -2077), Na (752.5-2105.5) and Fe (470.5-1093.5) were determined and the elements studied were given in mg/kg. As a result, it was determined that C. comatus, H. repandum, C. cibarius and P. eryngii had the lowest content of heavy metals and P. ostreus had the highest value in terms of calcium and magnesium contents. Therefore, it has been determined that these mushroom species may have important beneficial effects to human health. It is thought that it can be used as a source in future studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to investigate the levels of heavy metals (lead, cadmium, inorganic arsenic, and aluminium) and nitrate contaminants in pickle beverages sold in the Turkey market produced from various fruits and vegetables. In addition, carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risk assessments of exposure resulting from oral consumption of these beverages have also been made. The heavy metal concentrations in 22 pickle beverages were found to be in the range of 0.369 to 119.181 for Al, 0.136 to 6.561 for iAs, 0.020 to 1.326 for Cd, and 0.118 to 3.632 µg/L for Pb, while the nitrate concentrations were < limits of detection (LOD) 117.320 mg/L. Hazard quotient values for heavy metals and nitrate are calculated as <1 in both genders and are safe regarding noncarcinogenic risks. Lifetime carcinogenic risk assessment indicated that some pickle beverages might pose a carcinogenic risk at grade A (>10−4) for iAs and grade B (10−6–10−4) for Pb in both genders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal toxicity is a significant threat to human health and the environment. Contamination of the food chain with heavy metals in water sources may impact the health of consumers adversely. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, and Zn in the invasive fish species Carassius gibelio inhabiting two important lakes in Türkiye: Lake Beyşehir and Lake Eğirdir, from the Lake District Region and assess any health risks posed by the consumption of these species. For this purpose, C. gibelio species were obtained from two lakes in dry and rainy seasons and heavy metal concentrations were determined via ICP-OES analyses. The Cd concentrations in the muscle samples obtained from both lakes were below the analysis limits. The mean heavy metal concentrations (mg/kg) in the Beyşehir and Eğirdir lake samples were found as Pb: 0.32, Cr: 0.09, Cu: 0.52, and Zn: 6.88 and Pb: 0.88, Cr: 0.08, Cu: 0.46, and Zn: 12.6, respectively. The average heavy metal concentrations in the muscle tissues were below the national/international legislation limits, and the estimated daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotients (THQs), total THQs (TTHQs), and carcinogenic rates (CRs) did not exceed these limits. The results suggested that the consumption of these invasive fish species from these two lakes might not pose any potential health risk for consumers. Transference values (TF) for the digestive tract were also calculated, and biomagnification was determined for Pb, Cd, and Cr. Risk assessment studies are very important in terms of evaluating the effects of fish consumption on human health via applying different indices. This is the first study in which heavy metal concentrations were determined simultaneously in Lake Beyşehir and Lake Eğirdir, and the public health risk of consuming their invasive fish species was estimated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to determine three heavy metals (Pb, Cd, and Cr) concentrations in cheese samples in Iraq markets that are produced in Iran and Turkey. The concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Cr were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Human health risk parameters, such as Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI), and Carcinogenic risk (CR) due to heavy metals were calculated in all cheese samples of the present study. The average value concentrations of Pb, Cd, and Cr in cheese samples made manufactured in Iran were 4.33±0.57 mg/kg, 0.135±0.03, mg/kg, and 0.183±0.12 mg/kg, respectively. While those which were made in Turkey, the values were found to be 3.89±0.63 mg/kg, 0.167±0.032 mg/kg, and 0.105±0.07 mg/kg, respectively. The average values of HI in Iranian and Turkish cheese samples were 0.526±0.07 and 0.483±0.26, respectively. While the average values of CR×10-6 for Pb, Cd, and Cr in Iranian cheese samples were 0.006±0.0007, 1.13±0.0007, and 0.0056±0.7, respectively. But in Turkish cheese samples were 0.005±0.0008, 0.37±0.07, and 0.65±0.4, respectively. The heavy metal concentrations in the present study were found to be of no statistical significance, compared to the Iranian and Turkish cheese samples, where P-value was (P > 0.05). Most values for Pb, Cd and Cr concentrations were found to be higher than the allowed limits according to EU Regulations, while the health risk parameters were within the accepted worldwide average limits. Therefore, it can be concluded that most cheese samples have no health risks by consuming this cheese by consumers in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soils developed on serpentine rocks have serious limitations for agriculture. Intensive agriculture and forestry activities are carried out in the lands developed on the serpentine rocks in the southwest of Turkey. Because of lack of information about heavy metal contents and some important soil physic-chemical properties of soils in this area some properties and especially heavy metal contents of the soils were aimed to be determined in this study. The results of the study showed that total Cd (5.4-6.8 mg kg-1) concentrations with plant available fraction ranging from 0.52% to 0.90% of the total Cd were high. Total Ni (61%) and total Co (44%) concentrations of soil samples were found at high levels. Plant available Ni and Cr concentrations in soils were ranged between 0.08%-8.52% and 0.007%-0.56% of the total Ni and total Cr concentrations respectively. In addition, very high levels of the total Fe (17039-50883 mg kg-1) and Mn (218-1790 mg kg-1) concentrations were determined in the examined serpentine soils. Total Zn (33.0-87.5 mg kg-1) and Cu (8.8-99.9 mg kg-1) concentrations were ranged within the given limit values (= 140 mg kg-1 for Cu and 300 mg kg-1 for Zn). With regard to macronutrients, 70% N, 61% P, 56% K and 87% Ca contents of soils were found to be at the adequate levels. The present study demonstrated that the first 10 principal components with an eigenvalue greater than 1 could explain 89.74% of the total variation in the population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution has numerous detrimental consequences for human health, visibility, climate, materials, plant health, and animal health. A portion of air pollution consists of metals, which are emitted into the environment via the combustion of fossil fuels, industrial activities, and the incineration of metal-containing products. In this work, the particulate matter and particle-related metal pollution from various sources, in the Turkish province of Kayseri, were determined. AERMOD modeling was also used to examine the distribution of PM10 around the Kayseri Organized Industrial Zone (OIZ). Particulate matter (PM10) samples were collected using MCZ dust collecting devices at six monitoring locations mainly affected by residential heating (Hürriyet, Talas, and Kocasinan), industry (OIZ), and traffic (Tramway and Cumhuriyet) during the autumn/winter months and at three monitoring locations mainly affected by residential heating (Kocasinan), industry (OIZ), and traffic (Tramvay) during the spring months. ICP-MS analysis was used to assess the concentrations of the heavy metals (Pb, As, Cd, and Ni) in samples collected over 6 different time periods of 16 days each. During the autumn/winter months, the concentrations of Pb near roadways were found to exceed the Air Quality Assessment and Management Regulation of Turkey (AQAMR) limit value. During all the sampling periods, the Ni and Cd concentrations were below the AQAMR limit values. At the points associated with winter heating, the concentrations exceeded the AQAMR limit value, which may result from coal combustion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study, for the first time, focused on the determination of pollution levels and spatial distribution of heavy metals in Süreyyabey Dam Lake which is an important water source for the surrounding area. Water and sediment samples were taken seasonally from six sites exposed to different anthropogenic impacts. The most enriched elements in the Dam Lake were As, Cd, Mo, and Pb. In all sampling sites, the average heavy metal concentrations indicated low risk except for Cd and Pb which were classified in the moderate ecological risk class. Overall, the ecological risk was low for one site (S3) because of the far distance from the residential areas, while the ecological risk of the other stations was moderate. According to water analysis results, the aquatic life criteria could not be met for Zn, Cu, Cr, and Hg in Süreyyabey Dam Lake. Although the dam lake is used only for irrigation purposes, the Süreyyabey Dam Lake water is not suitable for drinking according to the metal limit values of the World Health Organisation. The results of the current study will contribute to the awareness of local authorities by using several indices on taking the necessary precautions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research, heavy metal contents (Al, As, Pb and Cd) of 6 honey samples obtained from Marmara and Aegean regions of Turkiye (chaste berry, chestnut, jerusalem torn and sunflower kind of honeys) and 4 honey samples obtained from Bulgaria (lavender, acacia and sunflower kind of honeys) with micro and macro element contents including Ba, Cr, Co, Ni, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn, Mg, P, B, Na, K, Sr, S and Ca were analyzed by ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Optical Emission Spectrometer). It was found that the heavy metal contents (Al, As, Cd and Pb) in the investigated honey samples were below the toxic limit values specified by the World Health Organisation and the Turkish Food Codex. In general, the mineral contents of honey samples vary according to the regions where they were taken. Among the honey samples taken from different regions; the contents of Pb, Al, As, Cr, Cu, Ba, Sr, Zn, B, Ca, K, Na, P and S changed at 1% significance level, while Mn, Ni and Fe contents differ at 5% level of significance. It was determined that as the apiary locations from which honey samples were taken approached the urban areas, the Pb content increased statistically by 1%, while the As and Co content increased at the 5% level of significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated contamination and ecological risks caused by selected heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, etc.) in the Mid-Black Sea coastal sediments and their effects on human health. The pollution levels were evaluated using comprehensive ecological and pollution indices to quantify their exposure risks posed to human health using the United States Environmental Protection Agency risk assessment model. The result revealed that the mean concentration of Cr (536.14 mg/kg) and Ni (257.8 mg/kg) among the selected heavy metals in sediment was above the PEC value, indicating that they have negative impacts on the ecosystem. According to the local background values, those obtained from the Cf, Cd, Igeo, SEF, PLI, PERI, etc., indexes demonstrated that heavy metal pollution in this region ranged from pollution-free to moderate pollution, with the largest contribution of Cr and Ni. Hence, they must be performed long-term dynamic monitoring of Ni and Cr to avoid ecological risks and protect the ecosystem's health. On the other hand, since the non-carcinogenic health risk (HI) of selected heavy metals in adults is less than 1, it has been determined that there is no health risk, while the HI value is greater than 3 in children. Accordingly, it indicates a very high health risk for children. This study also presents that cancer risk for heavy metals was higher than the acceptable limit (1 × 10–6) for adults and children. The results of this study have important guiding significance for selecting evaluation methods for heavy metal pollution in sediments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present study is to determine the heavy metal concentrations in the surface sediment between 2019-2020 in Munzur Stream, Turkey. The impact of pollution level in the study area was evaluated by geoaccumulation index (Igeo), Contamination Factor (CF), enrichment factor (EF), pollution ecological risk (PER) index, and pollution load index (PLI). The average amount of heavy metals detected in sediment in the study in mg/kg was, in descending order, Fe>Al>Mn>Ni>Cr>Zn >Cu>Pb>Cd>Hg. The data evaluated by several statistical methods indicated that the metals with a positive relationship between them in the Pearson correlation analysis and the elements of the same factor in the factor analysis were mostly the same. The comparison of the results with the sediment quality criteria showed that only the mean value of Mn and Ni exceeded the values of PEL. Heavy metal levels in Munzur Stream sediment exposed to domestic and agricultural wastes, agricultural fertilizers and pesticides, and mines were not high enough to pose a threat to aquatic life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a dearth of data about public health in the regular evaluation of heavy metal levels in seafood obtained from public market. This study aimed to examine the levels of essential (copper, zinc) and nonessential metals (cadmium, lead) in the tissues of cultured seabream (Sparus aurata), which was in public market. For this purpose, seabream samples were collected from the public market. And then, copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) metal accumulation levels in tissues of the dissected gill, liver, kidney, and muscle were measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). In order to understand whether the fish posed a risk to public health, risk evaluation formulations (estimated daily intake: EDI, hazard coefficients: HQ, hazard index: HI) were calculated for the muscle tissue. The data showed that Zn, Cd and Pb concentrations were maximal in the kidney tissue of S. aurata and Cu concentration were in the liver tissue, while the minimum heavy metal levels were in the muscle tissue. As a result, the maximum levels of heavy metals in the edible tissue of seabream were found as 0.11 mg Cu/kg wet weight, 0.72 mg Zn/kg wet weight, 0.12 mg Cd/kg wet weight, and 0.34 mg Pb/kg wet weight. Maximum values of them do not indicate any health risks as they are lower than the allowable tolerable levels specified by the international EDI estimation committees. The examined HQ and HI indicators were observed below 1 in all seasons. However, it is always possible for heavy metal intake to pose potential risks. For this reason, it is essential that the results of the study be interpreted from different perspectives and taken into consideration by other scientists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the natural radionuclide andpotentially toxic heavy metal contents of rock salt samples collected from three different salt mines located in Çankırı city in the Central Anatolia of Turkey were determined using gamma-ray and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) spectrometry.Also, concentrations of radionuclides and heavy metalsin different table salts (sea, lake, and Himalayan) consumed in Turkey were determined to compare with rock salt. The average activity concentration of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K measured in rock salt samples were found as 1.4, 5.6 and 34.0 Bqkg−1, respectively.The average concentration of Ti, Mn, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Zr and Pb in rock salt samples was analysed as 64.8, 12.9, 504.6, 3.6, 1.8, 2.0, 1.6 and 1.4 µgg−1, respectively. The concentration of Cr, Co, As, Cd, and Hg was below the detection limits.Also, the total annual effective dose (AED) and daily intake of potentially toxic heavy metals due to an intake of the radionuclides and heavy metals from rock salt samples wereestimated. The average value of AED was estimated as 8.4 μSv, which is significantly lower than the average annual effective dose of 290 μSv received by the ingestion of natural radionuclides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural researchers in many countries investigate radiological risks in soil and crops because it concerns human health. In addition, they also study heavy metal pollution in plants in cultivated soil for ecological safety. This study aims to analyze the activity concentrations of radionuclides and heavy metals in soil and corn crops in the Küçük Menderes Basin (Izmir, Turkey) - which is enriched with phosphatic fertilizers. We collected soil and corn samples from the area, and then separately measured concentrations of radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) and trace elements (Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Zn) they contain. Activity concentrations of the radionuclides were acquired by radiometric methods (gamma spectroscopy). Heavy metal amounts were calculated using ICP-MS (inductively coupled plasma-mass-spectrometry). The mean heavy metal concentrations in the soil (Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb, Hg) were 0.096, 40.26, 26.51, 72.43, 32.24, 7.05 mg kg-1, 158.28 µg kg-1 and in the corn (Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Pb, Hg) were 0.01, 1.09, 2.05, 22.00, 0.54, 0.24 mg kg-1, 12.15 µg kg-1. The heavy metal concentrations in soil samples were as follows: Hg

The soil is the part of the biosphere where heavy metal pollution is most common. Heavy metals pose a threat to animal and human health through plants. This study aimed to evaluate heavy metal concentrations in the soil of orchards of Bilecik Province and possible human health risks. In 2016, 42 soil samples were taken from peach orchards of Bilecik Province, and Cr, Fe, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb analyzed. Pollution indices (Enrichment Factor, Geoaccumalation Index, Contamination Factor, Ecological Risk Factor) were used to determine heavy metal pollution, and the effects on human health were determined by the hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI). The study area is moderate contaminated by Cd (3.64), Ni (2.38) and Cu (2.24) in terms of enrichment factor. Similarly, the study area soils were moderately contaminated by Cd (1.72), Ni (1.40) and Cu (1.38) in terms of the contamination factor. Besides, soils had moderate potential ecological risk by Cd (51.54). The principal component and correlation analysis showed Cd and Cu are anthropogenic and Ni is the lithogenic origin. Although soil pollution indexes show moderate pollution, there is no non-carcinogenic health risk for children (0.56) and adults (0.061). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals may cause serious problems for human health in contaminated water resources. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the metal contamination levels in Sihke Pond surface water and assess the possible human health risk for children and adults through ingestion of the surface water. The concentrations of thirteen heavy metals (aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, lead, selenium, and zinc) were determined monthly using the inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometer between September 2019 and August 2020. Heavy metal pollution index and metal index were used to determine the metal pollution level. Non-carcinogenic risks including hazard quotient and hazard index were calculated and the carcinogenic risk values were estimated for both age groups. The mean value of heavy metals was decreased in the order of manganese > molybdenum > iron > chromium > zinc > arsenic > cobalt > copper > nickel > lead > aluminum > cadmium > selenium. The mean heavy metal pollution index value was determined as 110.8 and classified as totally not suitable. The mean metal index value was also included in the slightly affected class. The hazard quotient for arsenic, cobalt, and molybdenum, and hazard index values had values >1 for both groups. The carcinogenic risk caused by arsenic, chromium, and lead were all above the tolerable limit of 1.0 × 10−4. Thus, the non-carcinogenic risk and carcinogenic risk results for children and adults exceed the threshold values. Consequently, the Sihke Pond surface water is contaminated with heavy metals and is not suitable for direct consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to our understanding of the evolution of Halılar Cu-Pb (±Zn) mineralization (NW Turkey) based on mineralogical and geochemical results and sulfur isotope data. The study area represents local Cu-Pb with some Zn brecciated-stockwork vein type mineralization along the NE–SW fault gouge zone at the lower boundary of the Sakarkaya and Düztarla granitoid rocks. Two main zones, consisting of sericite–quartz–chlorite ± kaolinite ± pyrite (i.e., zone-1) and calcite–epidote–albite ± chlorite ± sericite (i.e., zone-2), were observed within the central ore mineral zone at the mining site. Different mineralization assemblages were recorded; the main ore mineral contains chalcopyrite, galena, pyrite, and sphalerite within alteration zone-1, and the oxidation/supergene mineralization includes covellite and goethite. The mass balance calculations show that the samples of zone-1 show an increase in SiO2, Fe2O3, K2O, and LOI along with Ag, As, Cu, Mo, Pb, S, Sb, and Zn, reflecting high pyritization with sericitization and silicification. On the other hand, the samples from zone-2 are rich in CaO; Na2O; P2O5; TiO2; LOI; and carbon-reflecting calcite, epidote, and albite alterations. A uniform magmatic sulfur source of Halılar sulfides is suggested by their mean δ34S value of −1.62‰. Furthermore, the primary metal source is metasediments and intrusive Düztarla granitoid magmatism. These observations suggest that the Halılar metasediment-hosted Cu-Pb (±Zn) mineralization was formed by epigenetic hydrothermal processes after sedimentation/diagenesis and metamorphism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, celiac disease has become known to the public with the development of medical diagnosis possibilities and increased awareness of the celiac disease. The only cure for celiac disease is a gluten-free diet that must be strictly followed for perpetuity. Food products with gluten content lower than 20 ppm are considered glutenfree products. With the increase in the number of people with celiac disease and people on a gluten-free diet, the amount and variety of gluten-free products have increased significantly. Rice and corn are the raw materials of gluten-free products. However, this situation causes people who follow a gluten-free diet to be exposed to a uniform diet and deficient in the intake of essential elements such as copper, iron, and manganese. In this study, 41 glutenfree products in Turkey were examined with ICP-OES as copper, iron, manganese, zinc, and strontium content, and the results were reported. The samples with the highest Cu concentration were corn and puffed rice at 51.45 mg/kg and vermicelli at 32.40 mg/kg. Chocolate sauce and cornflakes were the samples at 137.43 mg/kg and 117.20 mg/kg, respectively, with the highest Fe concentration. The highest Mn concentration was precooked chickpea flour at 20.80 mg/kg. The highest strontium concentration value was 12.85 mg/kg in carob flour. The samples with the highest Zn concentration were determined in yeast at 91.98 mg/kg and pistachio croquant at 85.50 mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, geochemical properties were investigated to constrain the provenance, weathering conditions and to evaluate distribution and potential sources of heavy metals in the surface soils from basin infill sediments in Elazığ Industrial Area, Eastern Turkey. Soil samples contain clay minerals (smectite, chlorite and illite), feldspar, quartz, calcite and dolomite. Geochemical patterns of major, trace and rare earth elements in soil samples generally are consistent with those of host rocks. Ba, Cs, Rb, Th, Zr and U contents are less than amounts of Post Archean Australian Shale composition, may reveal that source rocks of soils in the study area are of mafic composition. The Eu/Eu*, Th/Sc, Zr/Sc ratios show that source rocks of the most of the studied soil samples are of basic source except samples from the waste area. Chemical index of alteration (CIA) indices observed in the samples suggest that their source rocks were low to moderately weathered. The levels of metals in soil collected from all the sampling sites was found to decreased in the order of: Mn > Zn > Ni > Cr > Cu > Co > Pb > Mo > Cd. Enrichment factors, coefficients of variation, correlation analysis and principal component analysis were determined that sources of elements in soils are classified into two general categories; they are either lithogenic (natural) or anthropogenic (human made). It is found that source of Mn, Cr, Mo, Cd are anthropogenic, whilst source of Cu and Co are entirely and Pb, Zn, Ni are predominately lithogenic and, they are affected by geochemical character of the source rocks. • We were investigated the geochemical properties of the surface soils from basin infill sediments. • This study evaluated the distribution and potential sources of heavy metals. • It has been revealed whether the source of heavy metals is anthropogenic or natural origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to define the content of total phenolic and phenylethyl isothiocyanate, the in vitro antioxidant activity, and the content of Trace and Heavy Elements of watercress (Nasturtium officinale R. Br., Brassicaceae). It has ecological and economic importance and has been used by humans for many years both for food and medical purposes. Now it is reported to have a chemopreventive effect. In this study, Watercress samples were collected from Malatya, Turkey. Spectrophotometric methods were used to determine the antioxidant activity and the content of total phenolic and phenylethyl isothiocyanate. To determine heavy metals and trace elements of watercress were used inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Our results indicated that the extract of watercress has a high antioxidant capacity. This feature was related to phenolic compounds and phenylethyl isothiocyanate. Our analysis with ICP-MS has revealed that the watercress plant has high iron content and toxic heavy metals did not bioaccumulate in the watercress plant. So it is recommended to consume the watercress plant as food according to these results. However, toxicity studies should be carried out in living beings regarding plant intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is the basic component of the biosphere and is exposed to many contaminants, including heavy metals, which are mainly affected by natural and human activities. Heavy metals in the soil are included in the food chain and pose a risk to human health. Determination of concentration and potential sources of heavy metals and evaluation of environmental and ecological risks were aimed at this study. In this study, 79 soil samples were collected from Alpu plain, located in Middle Anatolian to determine concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Cobalt (Co), Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), and Zinc (Zn). As a result, Enrichment Factor (EF) and Geoaccumalation Index (Igeo), average values of Ni and Cd showed moderate enrichment and pollution. Similarly, Cd was found as the considerably potential ecological risk. Principal component and Pearson correlation analysis proved that while Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Co, and Mn are primarily from natural sources, Cd is mainly from anthropogenic activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some heavy metals were detected in organs of the tomatoes grown in the discharge area of effluents of a municipal wastewater treatment plant. Also, the health risk potentials of heavy metals in the tomatoes consumed by human were investigated. The highest concentrations for Cu, Ni, Cr, Mn and Pb were followed the order of root>leaf>stem>fruit. When the bioconcentration factors values calculated for bioconcentration of metals from effluent to stem and root were examined, the highest values were determined for Cu. When translocation factors values are examined, the highest translocation from root to leaf was determined for Cd. The highest translocation from stem to leaf was determined for Pb. The estimated total exposure dose for male, female and children was listed as Zn>Mn>Cu>Cr>Ni>Pb>Cd. In terms of dietary, we can list the non-carcinogenic risks of heavy metals as children> female> male. The highest carcinogenic risk was calculated for Cr via dietary intake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, heavy metals (Cr, Pb, Zn, Cu, and Cd) contents of five Brassicaceae species grown in four different locations in Turkey were determined, mapped, and interpreted. Spatial analyses of the collected data were conducted in GIS, and thematic maps for average heavy metal accumulations including root, stem, and leaf of each species was developed. The biomonitoring potentials of species was assessed based on the statistical analyses results of the different localities. The heavy metal deposition characteristics of the plants showed differences. The most accumulated heavy metal was Zn, while Cd was the least accumulated. Capsella bursa-pastoris had the highest Cr and Cu accumulation compared to other species. Lepidium draba, on the other hand, accumulated Pb and Zn at most. Sisymbrium loeselii had the highest Cd accumulation compared to the other species. The results of the present study have indicated that Lepidium draba (Zn and Pb), Capsella bursa-pastoris (Cr and Cu) and Sisymbrium loeselii (Cd) can be safely used for biomonitoring studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the presence of heavy metals (Cr, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb) in the sediment and water column in the Köyceğiz Lagoon Estuary System (KLES) (South-West Anatolia). The mean heavy metal concentrations (µg L-1) in the water were found as Cr: 3.72-8.36, Ni: 6.51-9.48, Cu: 1.29-11.88, Cd: ND-0.08, Pb: ND-0.34. The heavy metal concentrations in water samples were found to be below the internationally acceptable limits. The mean heavy metal concentrations (mg kg-1) in the sediment were found as Cr: 1.75-4.25, Ni: 5.24-12.69, Cu: 0.25-0.51, Cd: <0.01, Pb: 0.04-0.13. As a result of the analyses conducted concerning contamination factor (CF), geo-accumulation index (Igeo), pollution load index (PLI), monomial potential ecological risk index (ER), and total potential ecological risk index (RI) for heavy metals in the sediment, it was deduced that there was not any pollution and moderate or high ecological risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dredging, a practice intended to increase the recreational value of aquatic systems at risk of eutrophication, has been implemented in Lake Mogan. This study aimed to determine a) Heavy metal concentrations (Hg, As, Cd, Cr, Pb, Ni, Cu, and Zn) in the overlying water and sediment pore water, and b) Pore water toxicity levels of some of these metals (Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn) following dredging in Lake Mogan. Surface sediment samples were taken from two stations in the lake between May and November 2020 to obtain overlying water and pore water values. The first station was chosen specifically because it receives wastewater from mineral processing facilities and nearby households; and the second station. After all, it receives household and industrial waste and agricultural wastewater. The findings indicate that a) Zn had the highest concentrations during the study period, and Pb the lowest. Overlying water concentrations were found to be within the acceptable limits outlined by the "Water Quality Control Regulations". Pore water Zn concentrations for May (330.50±8.72 µg L-1) and pore water Cu concentrations for November at the second station (12.85±4.35 µg L-1) were higher than the recommended WQC limits. b) Since no values greater than 1 were found in the pore water for IWCTU (Interstitial Water Criterion Toxic Units) and NI (Nemeraw index) values for Ni, Cu, Zn, and Pb, no serious levels of pollution were present for these four metals; however, Zn had the greatest potential risk of toxicity. Moreover, the total IWCTU and NI values indicate that both the toxicity of the metals and the degree thereof increased in May. The fact that pore water heavy metal concentrations in Lake Mogan were generally higher than those in the overlying water indicates strong metal adsorption in the sediment and suggests that, at least in terms of reducing surface sediment heavy metals, dredging activities in the lake are not very effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological risk resulting from the accumulation of some heavy metals in the sediments of Iskenderun Bay was assessed using the following measures: enrichment and contamination factor, pollution load index (PLI), and potential ecological risk index (RI). The concentrations of the studied heavy metals were in the following order: Fe > Ni > Mn > Cr > Zn > Cu > As > Pb > Cd > Hg. Ni and As had the highest EF values. This situation is most likely due to the presence of iron, pesticide, and fertilizer plants in the region. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Ni, As, Mn, and Cr may have harmful effects on faunal communities in sediments. According to the RI, Site 4 was more contaminated and toxic than the other seven study sites, with "moderate" ecological risk. Pearson's correlation coefficient was determined by multivariate methods – cluster and principal component analysis. As can be inferred from the RI values, the potential toxic effect of As and Ni in the sediments is moderate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to examine changes in stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios, to determine the levels of metals (aluminum, copper, iron, manganese, lead, and zinc), and to assess the health risks associated with consumption of the most consumed pelagic and demersal fish species in Turkey. Trachurus mediterraneus, Mullus barbatus, and Merlangius merlangus were seasonally caught from the Eastern Black Sea in 2020. Concentrations of heavy metals in fish muscle tissues were measured using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy whereas stable isotope analysis was performed using Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometer. The detected levels of metals studied in all fish species except lead were below the determined limits of national and international standards. In addition, the carcinogenic risk index was considered significant in all fish species. Considering the principal components analysis results, Cu and Pb may have originated from similar sources. No significant difference in metal content and stable isotope rates was observed between different species of fish. Also, target hazard quotient values were found below 1 in all species, which means that the consumption of the studied fish species does not pose a health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the spatial–temporal variations of iron, lead, copper, cadmium, mercury, nickel, and zinc accumulations in the water of Şehriban Stream (northern Turkey) were investigated. Water Quality Index (WQI), Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI), Pearson Correlation Index (PCI), and Factor Analysis (FA) were used in analyzing the water quality. Sampling was performed in 12 stations on monthly basis between February 2019 and January 2020 (a hydrological year). The data showed that the Şehriban Stream had significantly high water quality characteristics and the investigated toxicants were not found as dangerous for health. Although there was a slight decrease in the water quality from upstream to downstream, the stream was found to have 1st class water quality in general. As a result of WQI and HEI, although it was determined that the water quality decreased slightly in autumn, the stream was found to be "A Grade – Excellent (<50)" and "Low Contamination (<10)," respectively. As a result of PCI, strong positive correlations were found between almost all the toxicants investigated here (p < 0.01). As a result of FA, 2 factors ("Agriculture – Forestry" and "Rock Structure") explained 86% of the total variance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the radiological and heavy metal risk assessment to evaluate the impact of coal-fired power plants on humans and the environment in Turkey. Radiological evaluation was performed in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. For the freshwater reference organisms, total dose rates for insect larvae, mollusc bivalve, and gastropod, and zooplankton show radiological risk. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks, contamination factor, ecological risk, and geoaccumulation index for heavy metal risk assessment are the aspects of interest. Long-term exposure of children to heavy metals in coal may cause non-carcinogenic harmful effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the level of arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) and also essential elements in beer samples consumed in Turkey were investigated using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The heavy metal-induced non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were calculated. For essential elements, the calculated estimated daily intake of iron (Fe), copper (Cu), selenium (Se) and cobalt (Co) from beer consumption were compared with their toxicity reference values. Tukey post-hoc test showed that As was found at a significantly higher level when compared to Pb. Also, a significant correlation was found between As level and alcohol by volume percent. All samples had a hazard quotient and hazard index <1, indicating no non-carcinogenic risk from exposure to single or multiple heavy metals. Some samples exceeded the threshold limit of acceptable cancer risk for As in the high beer consumer group. This assessment showed that in addition to health implications based on the alcohol content of beer, there might be a carcinogenic risk associated with the heavy metals content of these beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of some metals were determined in muscle tissue of five marine fish species (Engraulis encrasicolus, Sarda sarda, Mullus barbatus, Trachurus mediterraneus, and Merlangius merlangus) caught from the Eastern Black Sea coast of Turkey in 2017. Heavy metals were analyzed by using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry after the muscle tissues of fish were digested by acids. The metal accumulation differences between species were investigated statistically. The levels of aluminum, cadmium, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, lead, and zinc in the muscles of fish were 3.27, 0.12, 0.27, 2.04, 9.97, 1.00, 0.95, and 10.65 µg/g, respectively. The highest levels of aluminum, cadmium, chromium, and manganese were detected in E. encrasicolus; the highest levels of lead and zinc were accumulated in T. mediterraneus and the highest concentration of iron and copper was found in S. sarda. The average lead concentration values were found to be above the limit values determined by national and international standards due to anthropogenic inputs such as mining activities and agricultural wastes. In addition, potential risks associated with human consumption were evaluated using quality indices such as estimated daily intake and target hazard ratio. According to these indexes, a potential risk in terms of human health has not been identified due to consuming fish tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The health status of Pelophylax ridibundus species living in anthropogenic pollution sources in Erzurum (Turkey) were investigated. Firstly, heavy metal concentrations in liver of the frog species, and in water and sediment samples taken from the habitats of the frogs were determined by instrumental analysis. Secondly, morphometric (fluctuating asymmetry-FA, hepatosomatic index-HSI) and erythrometric analyses were performed to reveal the health status of the frogs in the areas. Our study provides the first morphometric datas on the frog in Turkey. Although the metal concentrations in the water were high, it was determined that they did not exceed the limit values. However, Cr, Ni, Zn, and As metal concentrations in the sediment were determined to be above the acceptable level. It was also found that some metals accumulated in the livers of the frog due to heavy metal pollution. On the other hand, the FA, HSI values and the erythrocytic nuclear abnormality frequency increased in the frogs living in polluted stations. Moreover, erythrocyte size decreased and nucleated erythrocyte, mitotic erythrocyte, pycnotic erythrocyte, and immature erythrocyte frequencies increased. It was found that there was a correlation between the presence of pollution and the health status of the frogs, and the frog populations were affected negatively by anthropogenic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Çubuk 2, Kesikköprü and Asartepe Dam Lake, were investigated. A total of 60 sediment samples were collected and the concentrations of 10 elements (Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Mn, Fe, Co, Cr, Al, As) were determined. The obtained findings were compared to the limit values for the sediment quality guidelines (SQGs) and were investigated using sediment assessment methods. The results indicate that the values for SQGs revealed that the concentrations of Ni and As should be emphasised. Toxic unit (TU) values showed that As and Ni together constitute 69.95–80.09% of the total toxic effect alone for all lakes. In addition, the Contamination factor (Cf) and Enrichment factor (EF) detected the concentration of As for Kesikköprü Dam Lake as being at a medium and higher accumulation levels, although the Geoaccumulation index (Igeo) detected that As leads to contamination below the medium level. When the total element accumulation was evaluated, no risk was detected for the lakes. Cluster analysis (CA) revealed quite different elemental profiles for 3 lakes. The strongest correlation between the elements was observed for Cu-Ni (r = 0.942) in Çubuk 2, whereas Çubuk 2 was the lake with the highest seasonal elemental variation among the lakes investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the total concentrations, chemical speciations and their potential ecological risks of 11 metals from soil samples collected from 13 different locations in the Göksu Delta, a special environmental protection site in Turkey. In accordance with the total metal concentration results the contamination levels caused by the 11 heavy metals decreased in the following order: zinc (Zn) > nickel (Ni) > chromium (Cr) > lead (Pb) > vanadium (V) > arsenic (As) > copper (Cu) > cobalt (Co) > selenium (Se) > cadmium (Cd) > molybdenum (Mo). As a result of the speciation test, it was determined that the most mobile metals in the soil samples were Cd, Se and Zn. It was concluded that presence of Cd and Zn in particular were anthropogenic and that the metals other than As, Se and Zn were mostly bound to the organic fraction (F4) in soils. The ecological risk factors of As and Cd were found to be above the limit value in most soil samples. According to the Risk Assessment Code (RAC), the soils were in a high-risk group in terms of Zn and were in a moderate-risk group in terms of Cd, Mo and Se. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The manila clam Ruditapes philippinarum and the wedge clam Donax trunculus are economic bivalve species which constitute an important part of the natural bivalve beds in the Marmara Sea, Turkey. Toxic chemicals such as, dioxins, dioxin‐like polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and toxic metals are recognized as important health risk factors that threaten public health via food or directly in the environment. In the present study, we aimed to determine and monitor levels of these toxic chemicals in both clam species, R. philippinarum and D. trunculus, between 2013 and 2017. RESULTS: According to the results, maximum levels of dioxins, PAHs, and toxic metals (lead, cadmium, mercury) during the period were determined as 0.18 pg g−1, 2.43 mg kg−1, and 0.44–0.53‐0.1 mg kg−1, respectively. The level of contaminants in both clam species were determined to be below the threshold or tolerable daily intake values established by the European Commission, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), and Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO). Seasonal fluctuations were observed to be similar in both species and also in seasons, but elevated levels of PCBs and PAHs were detected in warmer months during the period. CONCLUSION: As a consequence, toxic chemicals in both clam species were found at low concentrations in this study from the point of view of public health concerns; however, the contaminants should be closely monitored in the future due to their elevated levels in samples. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to use multivariate statistical methods with asymmetric distributions approach, chemical analysis, and inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) device. We investigate data of heavy metal content from Akcay Riverwater to the Mediterranean involving Finike sea coast at Turkey. We determine the chemical content, origin of heavy metals of the surface water in Akcay River, which flows into the Mediterranean realted to the above-mentioned region by multivariate statistical analysis, pollution indices, and density maps involving numerical comments by numbers. With the help of special numbers represented by special chemical components and simmetric statistical methods given above, in this paper, we obtain many new relations and results. Furhermore, we give some comments, observations, and remarks about the results of this paper. These results have a high potential to be used not only in engineering fields and health sciences, but also in applied mathematics, statistics, and other fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we assessed the levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and inorganic arsenic (iAs) in 27 pediatric enteral nutrition (EN) formulas from five international brands available in the Turkish market. Analysis was conducted using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessment was performed using hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), carcinogenic risk (CR), Toxicological contribution % of Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) models. Our objective was to evaluate heavy metal exposure in EN formulas, specifically focusing on Cd, Pb, iAs, and Hg levels according to recommended amounts for different age groups based on their energy requirements. Average concentrations of iAs in polymeric (PC), oligomeric (OC), and monomeric (MC) EN formulas were as follows: PC: 2.13 ± 0.16 (

[Display omitted] • A biosensor was constructed to detect VN content in soybean living cells. • Biomarker VN linearly quantified oxidative damage in soybean under the combined La and Pb. • The change of VN content and oxidative damage in plant living cells can be selected as new biomonitoring indicators. • The combined effect of La and Pb was antagonistic at low dose and additive at high dose. • The monitoring and early warning of the combined stress of La and Pb in realistic condition were achieved. The damage that combined heavy metals cause to plants is a global environmental problem, and it is also harder to detect compared with that from solitary heavy metal. One mechanism, heavy metal-induced cellular oxidative damage, occurs during the early stage of stress. For early monitoring of plant damage from combined heavy metals, in-situ detection of oxidative damage in soybean leaf cells was performed under the combined lanthanum (La, an emerging heavy metal pollutant) and lead (Pb, a conventional heavy metal pollutant) stress, using vitronectin-like protein (VN, a Lewis base that binds heavy metal ions) as a biomarker. A living cell electrochemical biosensor was used to detect the VN content in leaf cells by measuring the electrochemical output signal (electron-transfer resistance, R et) coupled with oxidative damage indices, including reactive oxygen species (ROS), peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), and the fresh weight and area of leaves, to comprehensively assess oxidative damage in living cells. The linear relationship between R et (3884.85–6072.00 Ohm) and oxidative damage indices (145.01%–1196.02% and 135.53%–252.91% of the control group in ROS and MDA) was established under the combined La (10–80 μM) and Pb (5 μM) stress providing an early warning interval (127.38%–160.15% of the control group in R et) for the occurrence of oxidative damage in living cells. This electrochemical biosensor was successfully used to detect changes in VN content and oxidative damage in leaves exposed to the combined La and Pb found in the rainfall of China, Africa, and Turkey. Real-time in-situ detection of biomarker changes and oxidative damage in plant cells caused by combined heavy metals provided a basis to monitor the degree of damage and obtain an early warning of heavy metal stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempts to delineate the nutritional value and potential problem of toxic metal contamination in Sardinella maderensis (Lowe,1838) originating from Mauritanian fishery destined for regional common human consumption. Samples caught in Mauritania were delivered to Turkey by ship in 22 days in cold storage. Amino acids, fatty acids and toxic metal analyses of the samples were carried out by using a HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatograph), GC (Gas Chromatography) and a ICP‐MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry), respectively. Overall, the range of total Saturated Fatty Acids (SFAs), Monounsaturated Fatty Acids (MUFAs) and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) were found to be 34.35%, 28.13% and 34.50%, respectively. In terms of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)+Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels were found to be in total 24.34%. Amino acids content such as glutamic acid, histidine, leucine and lysine were 1735.5, 1,409, 1,580 and 1,710.5 mg/100 g tissue, respectively. Toxic metal levels of Hg, Cd, As, Cr, Mn, Co were determined to reach values between 0.03–4.19 mg/kg. Athough the study is limited, it seems that results on the composition of fatty acids and amino acid, indicate the high nutritional value, well suited for human consumption in particular in terms of omega 3 and essential amino acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The muscle tissues of a total 154 sampled eels from the Asi (Orontes) River were analyzed between January and December 2018 to determine the content of heavy metals (Hg, Pb, Cd and As). Determination of heavy metals in muscle tissue was carried out with an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (ICP‐MS). To express the risk level for human consumption of heavy metal contaminated eels we used common concepts and criteria such as Hazard Index (HI), Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Total THQ (TTHQ). From the human health point of view, the indices HI, THQ, TTHQ values of Hg, Cd, Pb and As indicate no risks for the consumers at assumed intake levels per unit time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth-promoting (PGP) bacteria commonly have many strategies to cope with heavy metal toxicity. Heavy metal-resistant PGP bacteria can be used to improve the growth of plants in heavy metal contaminated soils. In this study, the soil samples were collected from the lead–zinc mineral deposits in Gümüşhane Province, Turkey. Nine bacterial isolates were obtained on the nutrient agar medium supplemented with 100 mg/mL zinc and lead. All of the isolates were screened in terms of plant growth-promoting characteristics including production of indole-3-acetic acid and siderophore, nitrogen fixation and phosphate solubilisation. Nine bacteria were identified as Bacillus cereus, Bacillus atrophaeus, Bacillus pumilus, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Bacillus tropicus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus halotolerans, Bacillus vallismortis, and Enterococcus mundtii by classical and 16S rDNA-PCR assays. In addition, these isolates were evaluated for their response to three heavy metals (lead, zinc, copper) dominant in the soil samples and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the heavy metals was determined with plate dilution method. Consequently, the bacterial isolates in this study possess plant growth-promoting traits and can ameliorate heavy metal contaminated soil. E. mundtii was reported to be found in heavy metal contaminated soil for the first time. This study is the first report about PGP characteristics (IAA production and phosphate solubilisation) of B. vallismortis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study deals with radioactivity and heavy metal distribution and statistical analyses in the Bendimahi River Basin, which is within the Lake Van Closed Basin, Turkey. In order to identify the relationships between measured variables and to categorize soils and sediments collected at 15 sites on Bendimahi River, factor and cluster analysis have been applied. The data set is constituted of 9 radiological and physico–chemical variables, including gross alpha and gross beta activities and Pb, Zn, Cu, Cr, Cd, Co and Mn concentrations. Factor and cluster analysis were used to describe the relationship and similarity among data sets (variables) for the Bendimahi River. The convergence diagnostics such as trace plot and kernel density were applied to determine the convergence criteria to the data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of selected elements (Al, Fe, Mn, Mo, As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Co, Pb, Sb, and Zn) and Pb isotope ratios were determined in 53 sediments from Alihoca, Gümüş, Horoz, and Çakıt streams around the south-central Taurides (Ulukışla Basin), Niğde, which is a known mining province in Turkey. Several pollution and risk assessment indices were used to assess possible heavy metal pollution in the stream sediments and the associated potential ecological risks. Concentrations of As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Co, Pb, Sb, and Zn were elevated in the streams located near ancient mines, active mines, and slag piles in the area, suggesting an influence from mining activities. The pollution assessment indices indicated that the sediments were significantly polluted by As, Cd, Sb, Zn, and Pb and moderately polluted by Cu, Ni, Cr, and Co. The sediments show very high potential ecological risk with As, Cd, Sb, and Pb as the principal contributors. Ni, Cr, As, Pb, Zn, and Cd exceeded the probable effect concentrations in most of the samples implying that their concentrations may frequently affect sediment-dwelling organisms. Multivariate statistical analyses indicate that the accumulation of heavy metals in the stream sediments is due to an interplay of anthropogenic activities (mining and agrochemical application) and geogenic processes (weathering of bedrocks and supergene alteration of base metal-rich mineralization). Pb isotopic tracing indicates that total Pb in the sediments (206Pb/207Pb = 1.09-1.29) is primarily from weathering and dissolution of ultrapotassic rocks (206Pb/207Pb up to 1.20) and galena (206Pb/207Pb up to 1.21) from the Pb-Zn-Au deposits in the area with some anthropogenic input from mine slag piles (206Pb/207Pb = 1.10). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentrations of Al, Fe, As, Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, Hg, and organic carbon, and grain size distribution were investigated in the surface sediments of 7 sampling stations in the Sığacık Bay (western Anatolia) in December 2016. At all of the sampling stations, the concentrations of Pb, Ni, Cr, and As were higher than the average shale values. The highest concentrations of Pb, Cu, Zn, As, and Hg were found at stations near Doğanbey Cape. The possible sources of pollution were evaluated using several parameters: the enrichment factor (Ef), contamination factor (Cf), and contamination degree (Cd). The Ef values ranged between 0.12 and 7.61 in the bay. The high Ef (>1.5) values of Pb, Cu, Ni, Co, and As were assessed to explain the influence of anthropogenic sources. Additionally, the Cf values ranged from 0.46 to 5.61, while the Cd values ranged from 11.69 to 20.45 in the study area. The Cd of the Cr and As ranged between moderate and considerable, and the highest Cd was measured at stations near Doğanbey Cape. Additionally, the pollution degrees were assessed using sediment quality guidelines (SQGs), the threshold effect level (TEL), the probable effect level (PEL), the effects range low (ERL), and the effects range median (ERM). It was demonstrated that the sediments were generally heavily polluted with Cr and Ni, and moderately with Pb and Cu, according to the numerical SQGs. The concentrations of Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, and Ni were above the TEL, while Cr and Ni were also higher than the PEL levels for all of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was performed to determine the amount of some elements concentration in bodies of the aquatic insects. The contaminants, in six different polluted and non-polluted cities of Turkey, were determined with using predaceous diving beetles. Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectroscopy was used for determining the concentrations of heavy metals/metalloids in the total body of the insects. Sixteen elements (Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Se, Br, Rb, Sr, and Pb) were measured quantitatively in all the samples. Two elements (In, Sn) were measured below the detection limits of EDXRF. Significant heavy metals/metalloids accumulation was seen in two cities and species. Comparison of the studied bio-monitors, Cybister lateralimarginalis showed significantly higher elements accumulation than the other species, so it may be considered as a more suitable species for assessment of heavy metals/metalloids pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]