Search

Objective. This study evaluated fluoride content in table salts from participants' households of the Element project, comparing them with the Mexican standards of fluoride content in table salt (200 to 250 mg/kg). Materials and methods. Salt samples were collected from households of mother-offspring pairs participating in Element. Salt samples were analyzed in duplicates using a combination fluoride ionselective electrode and a pH/ISE meter. Results. Among 657 samples from 14 brands, fluoride varied from 0.016 to 477.9 mg/kg with a median (IQR) of 142.5 (136.9). Of salts labeled as fluoridated or containing fluoride (n= 607), we found that 72.8% (n= 442) had fluoride content below the recommended range and 13.8% (n= 84) were above the Mexican norm. Only 81 salt samples (13.3%) fell within recommended limits. Conclusion. Future studies with representative sampling are needed to evaluate table salt fluoride content, especially in high-fluoride areas, to inform potential adjustments to the current monitoring program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in-vacuum flash pyrolysis microreactor was used to seed a molecular beam with gaseous sodium chloride. The vapour was ionised with tuneable synchrotron vacuum ultraviolet radiation to determine the 0 K appearance energy of the sodium cation from sodium chloride using photoelectron photoion coincidence spectroscopy. In addition to the Na+ and NaCl+ peaks, Na2Cl+ was also observed in the mass spectrum, as a tracer for gaseous (NaCl)2. Larger clusters were not observed. The breakdown diagram showed that the monomer underwent significant collisional cooling in the molecular beam, tentatively because of the increased stagnation pressure in the reactor. It also yielded an Na+ appearance energy of E0 = 9.351 ± 0.007 eV. By the ion cycle, this leads to D0(NaCl) = 406.4 ± 0.7 kJ mol−1 and ΔfHo⦵0K(NaCl(g)) = −179.0 ± 1.0 kJ mol−1, which agree with but are better defined than the previous values. This enthalpy of formation is independent of the crystalline phase, and therefore confirms the literature sublimation enthalpy, as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For this research, 240 pieces of sea carp fry (with an average weight of 5±1 g) were transported at 4 different salinity treatments of 0, 1, 3 and 6 g/l in three replicates (in plastic bags) for one hour. In order to check the blood parameters of the baby fish at the end of the experiment, blood was taken from the samples by cutting the tail stem. According to the results of measuring some biochemical parameters of blood serum, the amount of total protein did not show a significant difference between different treatments (P>0.05), but the amount of glucose and cortisol showed a significant decrease in saline treatments compared to the control (P<0.05). The results of measuring liver enzymes in the amount of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase showed no significant difference between different treatments (P>0.05). The results of measuring some blood hematology factors also indicated no significant difference in the number of red and white blood cells, hematocrit percentage and hemoglobin level in the treatments. (P>0.05). In general, it can be concluted that Fewer stress indicators were observed in the transported fish treated with 3 grams of salt per liter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of table salt with silver nitrate in the treatment of umbilical granuloma presenting to the neonatal unit/paediatric department KTH. Study Design: Randomized Controlled Trial Setting: Neonatal Unit of Khyber Teaching Hospital. Period: November 2019 to November 2022. Methods: A total of 120 patients who presented to the neonatal unit/paediatric department, aged 15-60 days were enrolled in this study via consecutive sampling. Seventy-five patients each, were allocated to two groups, Group A (common salt) and Group B (silver nitrate). Sixteen patients from Group A whereas, in Group B, 17 patients were lost to follow-up. Results: A total of 58 out of the remaining 117 patients were female whereas 59 patients were male. Treatment response was recorded for both groups. The cure rate was greater among Group B (93%) as compared to Group A (88%) but there was no statistically significant difference between Group A and B in treatment response (p= 0.35). Conclusion: Table salt is a cheaper, easily accessible, and safe alternative to topical silver nitrate in the treatment of umbilical granuloma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Monitoring systems in a broad range of countries are a notable effort to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs). This study aimed to gather data on the amount of iodide present in table salt and how household consumption patterns affect children's iodine status and its effect on their growth. Methods. A single treatment arm community trial study design was designed. Lower community units (LCUs) were chosen at random from districts assigned either intervention or control. From a list of LCUs, 834 mothers and their paired children were chosen randomly. Urine and table salt samples were collected and examined in the national food and nutrition laboratory. The deference between arms was determined using a t test, and the generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to forecast parameters. Results. The mean iodide content in the table salt samples of 164 (98.1%) was 45.3 ppm and a standard deviation (SD) of 14.87, which were above or equal to the recommended parts per million (ppm). Between the baseline survey and the end-line survey, the mean urine iodine concentration (UIC) was 107.7 μg/L (+/- 8.64 SD) and 260.9 μg/L (+/- 149 SD). Children's urine iodine excretion (UIE) had inadequate iodine in 127 (15.2%) children at the beginning of the study, but only 11 (2.6%) of the intervention group still had inadequate iodine at the end. The childrens' mean height (Ht) was 83.1 cm (+/-10 SD) at baseline and 136.4 cm (+/-14 SD) at the end of the survey. Mothers knew a lot (72%) about adding iodized salt to food at the end of cooking, and 183 (21.9%) of them did so regularly and purposefully. A total of 40.5% of children in the intervention group had stunted growth at baseline, which decreased to 15.1% at the end of the study but increased in the control group to 51.1%. The mean difference (MD) of urine iodine concentration (UIC) between intervention and control groups was 97.56 μg/L, with a standard error (SE) of 9.83 (p=0:001). The end-line Ht of children in the intervention group was increased by 7.93 cm (β =7:93, p=0:005) compared to the control group. Conclusions. Our research has shown that mothers who embraced healthy eating habits had perceived improvements in both the iodine status and height growth of their children. In addition to managing and using iodine salt, it has also introduced options for other healthy eating habits that will also play a significant role in their children's future development. This sort of knowledge transfer intervention is essential for the sustainability of society's health. Therefore, this trial's implications revealed that the intervention group's iodine status and growth could essentially be improved while the control group continued to experience negative effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Inorganic Chemicals Industry is the property of Editorial Office of Inorganic Chemicals Industry and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Microplastics (MPs) have become an emerging contaminant in many environmental compartments. Although numerous studies worldwide have accounted for MP contamination in our primary condiments such as salt, there is limited data available in the Philippines. This study aims to determine MPs in commercially distributed salts in markets in Iligan City, Northern Mindanao, the Philippines. We collected table salts of various brands according to their information on the packaging, weight, and salt type. Salt samples were diluted with ultrapure deionized water to float MPs due to their intrinsic hydrophobicity. After flotation, the solutions were filtrated using a vacuum system. The filters were observed under microscopy analysis and suspected MP particles were verified using ATR-FTIR analysis. A total of 31 MP particles were detected, which averaged 11.27 ± 4.31 particles/kg of salt. The most abundant polymer types of MPs were polypropylene (23%), polyethylene (23%) and polyamide (19%). The shapes of MPs were dominated by fibers (65%), whereas white (45%) was the most prevalent color. This research is the first to provide a snapshot of MPs in salts in the Philippines. This adds knowledge on the extent of MP pollution in the food industries and informs the government's prioritization of this emerging food contaminant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastics and microplastics (MPs) are toxic, pervasive and threatening the biotic and abiotic components of the earth, and they threaten food safety and food security by moving in the food chain. In this study, the amounts and characteristics of 40 table salt samples with different brands, including sea salt (No = 13), rock (No = 13), bulk (No = 8) and non-standard (No = 6), were investigated with a combination of sieving, filtration, observation and FTIR, Micro-Raman and SEM techniques. The results showed that all the salts were contaminated with MPs. In general, the abundance range of detected particles was 700–5470 MPs/kg. The abundance of MPs was higher in counterfeit and non-standard salts (1825 ± 1808 MPs/kg). Investigating the relationship between the effect of the purification process (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.841), the type of packaging (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.609), and the type of salt (Kruskal-Wallis Test, P = 0.942), on the abundance of MPs using a comparison test Kruskal-Wallis was not significant. However, the numerical difference was recognizable. The most identified polymer in the salts was cellulose acetate, which probably causes by unmanaged plastic litter in the environment (especially cigarette butts). The dominant form of particles was fragment-shaped, which is the most abundant form of identified MPs in the environment. Both environmental pollution and secondary pollution (during production and packaging), respectively, contribute to the contamination of salts with MPs. The estimated human dietary intake (EDI) and the amount of estimated annual intake (EAI) for different ages in Iran were obtained EDI = 5–59 MPs/capita/day and EAI = 1967–21563 MPs/capita/year. The surface morphology of the particles showed that the MPs were affected by continuous weathering, mechanical fracture and oxidation. MPs are a threat to human health due to the absorption and transmission of dangerous pollutants and their inherent toxicity. Therefore, a solution must be thought of to prevent the contamination of the food chain through salts by MPs, (with protective measures at the salt source, and by improving its production processes.

Background Monitoring systems in a broad range of countries are a notable effort to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders (IDDs). This study aimed to gather data on the amount of iodide present in table salt and how household consumption patterns affect children’s iodine status and its effect on their growth. Methods A single treatment arm community trial study design was designed. Lower community units (LCUs) were chosen at random from districts assigned either intervention or control. From a list of LCUs, 834 mothers and their paired children were chosen randomly. Urine and table salt samples were collected and examined in the national food and nutrition laboratory. The deference between arms was determined using a t test, and the generalized estimating equation (GEE) was used to forecast parameters. Results The mean iodide content in the table salt samples of 164 (98.1%) was 45.3 ppm and a standard deviation (SD) of 14.87, which were above or equal to the recommended parts per million (ppm). Between the baseline survey and the end-line survey, the mean urine iodine concentration (UIC) was 107.7 µg/L (+/− 8.64 SD) and 260.9 µg/L (+/− 149 SD). Children’s urine iodine excretion (UIE) had inadequate iodine in 127 (15.2%) children at the beginning of the study, but only 11 (2.6%) of the intervention group still had inadequate iodine at the end. The childrens’ mean height (Ht) was 83.1 cm (+/−10 SD) at baseline and 136.4 cm (+/−14 SD) at the end of the survey. Mothers knew a lot (72%) about adding iodized salt to food at the end of cooking, and 183 (21.9%) of them did so regularly and purposefully. A total of 40.5% of children in the intervention group had stunted growth at baseline, which decreased to 15.1% at the end of the study but increased in the control group to 51.1%. The mean difference (MD) of urine iodine concentration (UIC) between intervention and control groups was 97.56 µg/L, with a standard error (SE) of 9.83 (p = 0.001). The end-line Ht of children in the intervention group was increased by 7.93 cm (β = 7.93, p = 0.005) compared to the control group. Conclusions Our research has shown that mothers who embraced healthy eating habits had perceived improvements in both the iodine status and height growth of their children. In addition to managing and using iodine salt, it has also introduced options for other healthy eating habits that will also play a significant role in their children’s future development. This sort of knowledge transfer intervention is essential for the sustainability of society’s health. Therefore, this trial’s implications revealed that the intervention group’s iodine status and growth could essentially be improved while the control group continued to experience negative effects. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT048460 1.

The use of ultrasound in the determination of chromium in table salt using the extraction of the macrocomponent was investigated. The method of extractive separation of the base allows determination of the chromium content in table salt without destroying organic substances. Optimal conditions for dissolving the base in hydrogen peroxide (90 %) were experimentally established: temperature - from -20 to -25 °C, ultrasound frequency 18-44 kHz, intensity 0.5-0.8 W/cm², action time 20-25 s, respectively. At the same time, the maximum possible solubility of sodium chloride in hydrogen peroxide is achieved - up to 42 g/100 ml. It was established that the simultaneous use of high-frequency ultrasound (1.0-2.0 MHz, 0.25-0.50 W/cm²) and low-frequency ultrasound (18-100 kHz, 0.15-0.25 W/cm²) increases the solubility of sodium chloride in hydrogen peroxide from 42 to 47 g/100 ml, increase the degree of extraction of the injected part of chromium from 94-95 to 98-99 %. Methods for determining chromium content in common salt using low-frequency ultrasound, as well as simultaneous action of high- and low-frequency ultrasound with improved metrological characteristics of the results of analysis of common salt, have been developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Microplastics are plastic fragments measuring less than 5 millimeters which are formed from degraded plastic materials and have the potential to pollute the environment. Due to their widespread presence in the marine environment, microplastics have become a significant global threat. The presence of microplastics is often considered as causing pollution in various environments, especially aquatic ecosystems such as rivers and oceans. Microplastics contamination can even be found in consumed salt, thus raising concerns about its impact on human health. However, information on the presence of microplastics in salt is still very limited. This study aims to determine the abundance and characteristics of microplastics as contaminants in salt and assess the human exposure to microplastics in Indonesia. METHODS: A total of 21 samples of salt products were taken from various brands available in Padang City and Jambi City, Indonesia for analysis. Microplastics extraction was carried out by removing the organic materials contained in the salt samples using 30 percent hydrogen peroxide and then filtering them with a 0.45 micrometer pore filter. A stereomicroscope was used to detect the abundance, shape, size, and color of microplastics, while the Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was utilized to identify the polymer type of the microplastics. Furthermore, human exposure to microplastics can be predicted by calculating the estimated dietary intake and taking into account the daily salt intake. FINDINGS: Microplastics were detected in significant amounts (p<0.05) in all salt samples, ranging from 33 to 313 particles/kilogram. The types of microplastics most commonly found in the samples were fragments (67.49 percent), fibers (23.82 percent), films (6.08 percent), and pellets (2.61 percent). The types of polymer identified include polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. The dominant microplastics were 100-300 micrometers in size (47.3 percent) and black in color (52.88 percent). It is estimated that adults in Indonesia will be exposed to 60.225-571.225 microplastics/year if they consume 5 grams of salt/day or 120.45-1142.45 microplastics/year if they consume 10 grams of salt/day. CONCLUSION: Of the 21 salt samples analyzed, all were detected to contain microplastics. Inadequate and unhygienic salt production and contaminated seawater used as raw material contribute to microplastics contamination of salt, thus posing a risk to human health. By calculating of daily salt intake of the Indonesian population, it is possible to estimate their daily and annual exposure to microplastics. The results of this study contain useful information for the efforts to prevent microplastics contamination by relevant stakeholders and the provision of education and socialization about the proper salt production process in accordance with food safety standards as to reduce or even eliminate microplastics in salt. In addition, this study can provide valuable data on human exposure to microplastics in salt products that can assist policymakers in making standard references for microplastics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Table salt is an ideal vehicle for the delivery of micronutrients. This study assessed the quality of refined salts and locally processed salts in Awe and Keana local government areas, Nasarawa state, Nigeria. Materials and methods: Forty-five samples were collected from local markets in Nasarawa state. Moisture content, water-insoluble matter, and acid-insoluble matter were determined according to the AOAC method. Sodium chloride and iodine contents were determined by titration. The concentration of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium was determined by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results and conclusion: Moisture content of the refined and unrefined salts ranged from 0.060 to 0.133% and 0.599 to 2.574%, respectively. The moisture content and amounts of water-insoluble and acid-insoluble matters in the unrefined salts were higher than the refined salts. The concentration of sodium chloride in most of the unrefined salts did not meet the national minimum limit of 97%. The concentration of iodine, calcium, potassium, and magnesium in the refined salts was significantly higher than the unrefined samples. Iodine content in the refined and unrefined salts ranged from 22.22 to 40.20 mg/kg and below the detection limit of 6.35 mg/kg, respectively. None of the unrefined salts met the minimum iodine content of 30 mg/kg. We concluded that the locally processed salts available in Awe and Keana local markets were highly deficient in essential elements and were of poor quality for use as table salt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Microplastics are plastic fragments measuring less than 5 millimeters which are formed from degraded plastic materials and have the potential to pollute the environment. Due to their widespread presence in the marine environment, microplastics have become a significant global threat. The presence of microplastics is often considered as causing pollution in various environments, especially aquatic ecosystems such as rivers and oceans. Microplastics contamination can even be found in consumed salt, thus raising concerns about its impact on human health. However, information on the presence of microplastics in salt is still very limited. This study aims to determine the abundance and characteristics of microplastics as contaminants in salt and assess the human exposure to microplastics in Indonesia.METHODS: A total of 21 samples of salt products were taken from various brands available in Padang City and Jambi City, Indonesia for analysis. Microplastics extraction was carried out by removing the organic materials contained in the salt samples using 30 percent hydrogen peroxide and then filtering them with a 0.45 micrometer pore filter. A stereomicroscope was used to detect the abundance, shape, size, and color of microplastics, while the Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy was utilized to identify the polymer type of the microplastics. Furthermore, human exposure to microplastics can be predicted by calculating the estimated dietary intake and taking into account the daily salt intake.FINDINGS: Microplastics were detected in significant amounts (p

Cardiac dysfunction can be prevented by addressing risk factors including unhealthy diet with other lifestyle modifications. The present study demonstrates the effect of diet mixed with sea and table salts on cardiac remodeling with respect to CKMB, renin, angiotensin II, interleukin-6 and 10. Animals divided into six groups. Normal control, Table salt (0.3%), Natural sea salt (0.3%), Doxorubicin-induced cardiac remodeling control (2 mg/kg), + Normal table salt (0.3%) and Doxorubicin + Natural sea salt (0.3%) . Serum analysis and histopathology of heart, liver and kidney was performed. Significant variation (P

Introduction: Iodine deficiency can cause several diseases in children and adults. Therefore, it is important to monitor iodine supplementation. The present study aimed to evaluate the Iodine levels in table salts consumed in Algeria. Materials and method: A total of 81 salt samples were purchased from different retailers. Iodine levels were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry after digestion procedure. Statistical analysis and data visualization were performed using Rstudio 4.2.2 software. Results and discussion: In total, 11 products mentioned the iodine content in their packaging, 05 products mentioned an iodine level which did not in accordance with the Algerian regulations (50.55–84.25 mg/kg). In addition, iodine content varied in the samples of the same brand, indicating a poor reproducibility in the process of iodination. Additionally, 26 samples were free of iodine and only 03 products respected the recommendation of the World Health Organization regarding iodine content in table salts (20–40 mg/kg). Conclusion: The analysed table salt samples were not compliant to national and/or international regulations, exposing to an iodine deficiency that could impacts negatively consumers’ health. Thus, it is essential to strengthen the quality control of dietary salts and to set up a nutrivigilance system.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Objectives: To figure out if children in the Aseer region of southwestern Saudi Arabia are getting enough iodine by looking at what they eat and how many of their families use iodized salt. Methods: This cross-sectional research implemented a stratified proportional allocation sample. A questionnaire was used to study dietary habits. The families of each child were requested to supply one teaspoon of table salt. Spectrophotometric analysis was used to determine the iodine content of salt. Results: The investigation included school-aged participants. Insufficient iodized table salt samples were observed in 22.3% (95% CI: 20.8%-23.8%) of the samples. Based on the results of this study, rural areas had significantly more insufficient table salt samples than urban areas. Milk (2,451; 80.7%), chicken (1,835, 60.4%), and eggs (1290; 42.0%) were the items consumed most frequently on a daily basis during the preceding week. The daily intake of milk and chicken is more frequent among those consuming insufficient iodine table salts. Unfortunately, children who ate table salts with too little iodine ate less fish than other kids. Conclusions: The study revealed that the region still frequently uses insufficient iodized salt. There should be increased emphasis on health education regarding the need of frequently consuming dairy products, chicken, and fish. Through sales and marketing, iodized salt can be made more widely available. The Aseer region's authorities should take all reasonable measures to prevent the sale of non-iodized salt in the area's markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ferrate salt is a powerful oxidant for dye degradation. This work demonstrates a new method for degrading dyes containing Fe(vi) by synthesizing NaOCl from the electrolysis of table salt. NaOCl is then reacted with Fe(OH)3 in an alkaline condition to form ferrate. Electrolysis of table salt was successfully carried out using platinum as an anode and zinc as a cathode. The obtained ferrate was characterized by using Fourier transform infrared, UV-Vis, and X-ray diffraction spectroscopy. The ferrate solution has a maximum wavelength of 505 nm with a characteristic purple color. Furthermore, the ferrate produced was utilized to remove methylene blue (MB), remazol black blue (RBB), and methyl orange (MO) dyes with varying contact times. The degraded dyes were then analyzed using LC/MS. The results showed that ferrate was effective to remove dyes with an optimum contact time of 60 min that follows an order one reaction. In this study, MB showed a percent degradation close to 100% with the fastest decolorization rate compared with MO and RBB. This research provides new insights into the benefits of table salt as a base material for NaOCl through electrolysis for synthesizing ferrate, used in dye removal applications.

The study was conducted with the aim of determining the influence of brief immersions in aqueous solutions of sodium chloride (NaCl) and/or copper sulphate (CuSO4) on the physiological state (hematological and blood plasma biochemical indicators) of pikeperch selects (body weight 509.89 ± 99.56 g; body length 33.9 ± 2.0 cm). Immersion was conducted in a water temperature similar to that of spawning (15.1°C). The fish were divided into three experimental groups and one control group: NaCl group (NaCl concentration – 5 g l−1), CuSO4 group (CuSO4 concentration – 1.5 mg l−1), and NaCl+CuSO4 group (NaCl concentration – 5 g l−1; CuSO4 concentration – 1.5 mg l−1). Blood was drawn immediately after immersion (0 h), 24, and 48 h following the conclusion of immersion. Immediately after immersion, elevated values were noted in white and red blood cell counts, hematocrit, and hemoglobin, while mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration values were elevated only in the NaCl group 24 and 48 h following the conclusion of immersion. Changes in blood plasma biochemical indicators were noted only immediately after the conclusion of immersion with elevated values of glucose (NaCl, CuSO4, and NaCl+CuSO4 groups), lactate (NaCl and CuSO4 groups), and ammonia, sodium, and chlorine ions (CuSO4 group). Greater aspartate aminotransferase activity was noted in the fish from the CuSO4 group immediately after immersion, while the least significant changes following immersion were noted in specimens from the NaCl+CuSO4 group.

It is extremely rare for table salt to be used to preserve a dead body in criminal cases. In the case presented here, after the death of his 85-year-old mother, a son kept her body preserved in table salt for about 2 years to extort social benefits (pension). Before her death, the woman had been hospitalised twice due to chronic diseases. The case has been examined by the multi-disciplinary team. The unusual conditions in which the corpse was stored influenced its good condition (close to mummification), with limited colonisation of the corpse by necrophagous insects and insects involved in soft tissue biolysis (i.e. selected Diptera or Coleoptera). The use of table salt inhibited the growth of most fungi which would normally be present on a corpse stored in ambient conditions, and the corpse's surface was colonised by halophilic fungus (Scopulariopsis brevicaulis). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are considered as contaminants of emerging concern to the environment and our food chains in recent years. In this study, we presented a multi-technique-based analytical method for detection of MPs through a combination of microscope-FTIR (μ-FTIR) with pyrolysis-GC/MS (Py-GC/MS) to achieve 3-dimensional (3D) information for the identification of polymer type, characterization of particle size and morphology, and quantification of MPs based on both particle number and mass of plastics. Plastics that are commonly used and disposed of, including polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly vinyl chloride (PVC), polyamide (PA), and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), were covered in this study. Sample extraction and separation procedures were optimized for these microplastics in table salts where good recoveries (> 75%) were achieved. To further enhance the detection sensitivity in simultaneous quantification of multiple polymers in a sample, a serial dissolution approach with different solvents was developed for the detection of all 7 types of plastics. The established sample preparation process and multi-technique-based analytical method were validated with polymer standards in table salts, resulting in satisfactory qualification and quantification for all samples tested. A retail survey of MPs in table salts was conducted with the developed analytical method, revealing that MPs were present in all commercially available table salts. The total number of MP particles varied from 20 to 125 particles/kg and the total mass contents of seven types of plastics ranged from 30 to 530 µg/kg in table salts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peppers are highly perishable vegetables, especially in tropical countries. Fermentation may serve as a bio-preservation approach to reduce spoilage, and valorization-enhancing process to improve sensory properties, safety, and nutritional value. The effects of salt concentrations on microbial diversity, sensory, metabolite and aroma profiles of naturally fermented habanero pepper was investigated by adding 5 - 25% (w/w) of salt to chopped habanero pepper and samples obtained on day 0, 7, 14, 30 and 50 for analyses. Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) increased from about 1.33 - 1.83 to 3.80 - 4.97 log CFU/mL during fermentation while pH decreased to 4.47 - 4.78. The presence of Enterobacteriaceae throughout the fermentation period reiterates the need to develop and implement starter cultures for fermenting habanero pepper. Untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed a total of 3206 metabolic features in the fermented peppers. Among these features, 121 were identified (confidence level 1), 1688 were putatively identified (confidence level 2), 1231 were predicted with a chemical formula (confidence level 3), and 166 were unidentified (confidence level 4). Clustering within the fermented groups was salt concentration dependent, with low salt groups (0% and 5%) distinguished from high salt groups (10%, 15%, 20% and 25%). Sensory evaluation showed similar scores for the various fermented peppers. A total of 18 volatile compounds including 10 alcohols, 3 esters, 2 ketones, and an acid were identified, and their content varied with salt concentration as explained by Principal Component Analysis.

Metals and radionuclides contaminate the food chain, entering the human body through nutrition. In this study, the levels of some radionuclides and metals in rock, lake, and sea salts, which are offered for sale in Türkiye and frequently consumed by individuals, were determined first. Then, the dietary exposure resulting from salt consumption was measured. Finally, target hazard quotient, hazard index, annual effective dose, total annual effective dose, and lifetime cancer risk values were calculated. Lake salts had the highest average levels of Al, Cr, Mn, Co, and As; rock salts had the highest average levels of Fe, Ni, and Zn; and sea salts had the highest average levels of Cu, Cd, and Pb. Table salts ranked as sea salt, lake salt, and rock salt based on the average levels of Ra, Th, and K. The hazard index values calculated for metal exposure from table salt consumption were consistently below 1, confirming that the investigated salt samples pose minimal health risks. The Ra, Th, and K concentrations determined in the table salt samples were detected to be lower than the limit values except for the 26 coded sea salt samples. According to the radionuclides and metal exposure levels, all table salts (except Sample 26) can be safely consumed by humans. This study provides evidence that table salts sold in Türkiye contain metals and radionuclides, which are both essential and non-essential for human metabolism, and that these contaminants are transferred to human metabolism through salt consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Umbilical granuloma responds well to both chemical catherization via copper sulphate treatment and osmotic dehydration via table salt application. • Our study shows that table salt is associated with a significantly higher rate of lesion resolution compared to copper sulphate. • There were no complications reported with the use of table salt, compared to 9% of infants who had superficial skin burns after copper sulphate application. Umbilical granuloma is a common infantile condition which usually responds to non operative management. Copper sulphate (CuSO 4) is often used as chemical cauterization but can cause superficial skin burns. An alternative is table salt (NaCl), which osmotically dehydrates wet granulation tissue causing necrosis. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of NaCl versus CuSO 4 in treating umbilical granuloma. We performed a multi centerrandomized controlled trial involving three regional pediatricsurgical units. We included children who presented with umbilical granuloma from December 2018 to May 2020. Children who received treatment prior to index visit were excluded. They were randomly allocated to receive NaCl (twice/day application for 5 days by caregiver) or CuSO 4 (single application by clinician). Demographic data, compliance in the NaCl group by pill counting method, treatment outcomes, and complications were recorded. Treatment success was defined as complete lesion resolution. Partial or no response was considered treatment failure. Subsequent treatment then reverted to the respective center's routine management. We recruited 70 participants with 6 dropouts (2 defaulters, 1 vitellointestinal duct, 3 urachal remnants), leaving 64 subjects for final analysis: 31 NaCl, 33 CuSO 4. Compliance rate of 77.4% was recorded for NaCl, with 6 (20%) 'poor compliance' participants stopping therapy before completion owing to complete resolution. NaCl group had a significantly higher complete resolution rate (90.4%) compared to CuSO 4 (69.7%), p = 0.040. No NaCl participant developed complications versus 9% (n = 3) in CuSO 4 (periumbilical superficial skin burn). Table salt is an ideal treatment choice for umbilical granuloma as it is effective, safe, and readily available. II. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plane viral warts on the face can be difficult to treat at times. Various treatment approaches for facial viral warts have had variable degrees of effectiveness. In contrast, the majority of existing treatments are more costly, painful, and difficult to manage. In approximately 15.6% of instances, retinoic acid (0.05%) is also ineffective. It is very difficult to cure warts on the face at a young age. In pyogenic granuloma, table salt (NaCl) is useful as a sclerosing agent, and its hypertonic solution (15%) is effective in prolabial mucoceles. The aim of treating viral warts is to necrose infected cells and sclerose or thrombose their feeding capillaries at the wart's base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac dysfunction can be prevented by addressing risk factors including unhealthy diet with other lifestyle modifications. The present study demonstrates the effect of diet mixed with sea and table salts on cardiac remodeling with respect to CKMB, renin, angiotensin II, interleukin-6 and 10. Animals divided into six groups. Normal control, Table salt (0.3%), Natural sea salt (0.3%), Doxorubicin-induced cardiac remodeling control (2 mg/kg), + Normal table salt (0.3%) and Doxorubicin + Natural sea salt (0.3%). Serum analysis and histopathology of heart, liver and kidney was performed. Significant variation (P <.05) observed in in CKMB for Natural sea salt group compared to Normal. Significant (P <.05) variation in renin for Normal table salt group compared to Normal. Variation in interleukin-6, 10, renin and angiotensin II give new insight in these parameters with marked variation in cellular architecture of the heart, liver and kidney. Observations suggest diet with natural sea salt demonstrated significant beneficial effect on cardiac dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated microplastics (MPs) in commercial sea salts from Bangladesh. The presence of MPs in the 18 sea salt bands was 100 %, where the mean MPs abundance was 471.67 MPs/kg, ranging between 300 and 670 MPs/kg. The maximum number of MPs in the 300–1500 μm size class was significantly higher than the 1500–3000 μm and 3000–5000 μm size class. The most dominant color was black. Fibers and foams were the dominant shapes. The highest number of MPs was 41 %, obtained from coarse salt grains. Four types of polymers were mainly identified from the analyzed samples: PP, PE, PET, and PA. The mean polymer risk index value among these sea salts was 539 to 1257. The findings of this study can be helpful for consumers, salt industries, and policymakers to be aware of or reduce MP contamination levels in sea salts during production and consumption. [Display omitted] • The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in 18 commercial sea salts from Bangladesh was investigated. • The mean abundance of MPs in sea salts was 471.67 MPs/kg, ranging between 300 and 670 MPs/kg. • Four types of polymers (polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate and polyamide were mainly identified. • The mean polymer risk index (PRI) value among these sea salts varied from 539 to 1257. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study provides the first analysis and quantification of MPs in salt products in Sri Lanka. Commercial table salt brands, rock salt, lab-grade NaCl and raw salt from three salterns were analysed using microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. All salt samples were contaminated with MPs: in commercial salts products it ranged from 11 to 193 items/kg, rock salts had 64 items/kg and lab grade NaCl had 253 ± 8.9 items/kg. The MP levels in salterns varied significantly: Hambantota 3345.7 ± 311.4 items/kg, Puttalam 272.3 ± 10.6 items/kg, and Elephant Pass 36.3 ± 4.5 items/kg. Predominantly, MPs were presented as fibres, followed by fragments. Of the 23 polymer types identified; low-density polyethylene (LDPE; 17%), resin dispersion (15%) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE; 12%) were notable. This study provides the first comparison of MPs in raw salt and commercial salt. This information is important to trace the pollutant sources and then to take steps to eliminate MPs in food products consumed. [Display omitted] • Sri Lankan raw and commercial salts were highly contaminated with microplastics. • More microplastics in raw salt than in commercial salt • Microplastic levels among the salterns were significantly different. • This is the first record of microplastics in sea salt consumed in Sri Lanka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]