Abstract
Because the Amazon rain forest is ecologically relevant on a global scale, we applied scientometric techniques to integrate studies dealing with mercury research in this unique ecosystem between 1991 and 2017. Using a combination of co-authorship and co-citation analyses, keyword mapping and overlay visualization of topics in the field, this article identified three major areas in the 26-year period of mercury research: (1) human exposure to mercury (artisanal small-scale gold mining-ASGM) and methylmercury through fish consumption, and their respective risks for human health; (2) mercury accumulation in the environment and its relation to ASGM and atmospheric concentration; and (3) mercury geochemistry and its presence in soils, sediments, and water. The paper also identified the leading institutions related to the published research and respective influential scholars in the context of this study. Overall, the analyses revealed patterns of convergence and divergence between authors, specialization, and interdisciplinary engagement in mercury investigation, thus highlighting strengths and weaknesses of research topics in the field. This scientometric approach could be a useful tool to monitor/assess the implementation of the Minamata Convention.
Highlights
Mercury (Hg) is hazardous to human health and wild life
Because of its high toxicity and capacity to accumulate in food webs, Hg is classified as a persistent toxic substance (PTS)
Its methylated form, methylmercury (CH3 Hg), is considered the most toxic of the organometallic compounds [2], and it is absorbed by organisms, as it is able to bioaccumulate within an individual over time and biomagnify through the food chain [3,4]
Summary
Mercury (Hg) is hazardous to human health and wild life. Because of its high toxicity and capacity to accumulate in food webs, Hg is classified as a persistent toxic substance (PTS). Its methylated form, methylmercury (CH3 Hg), is considered the most toxic of the organometallic compounds [2], and it is absorbed by organisms, as it is able to bioaccumulate within an individual over time and biomagnify through the food chain [3,4]. The implications of environmental mercury contamination are well-documented [7] and have led to the need for international cooperation regarding its control. The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a legally binding international agreement designed to control, reduce, or eliminate major anthropic sources of Hg [4]. Its ultimate goal is to protect human health and the environment [8]
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