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One of the largest petrochemical complexes of southern Europe is located in Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain). Despite environmental monitoring is routinely conducted in the area, the long-term occurrence of airborne trace elements has been poorly investigated. In the present study, the concentrations of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb) and vanadium (V) were analysed in air samples collected in El Morell, a town potentially impacted by the petrochemical. Air samples were simultaneously collected in the town of Cambrils, as a background site. Meteorological data and retro trajectories analysis were used to evaluate the impact of the petrochemical industry on the levels of trace elements in air. Subsequently, human health risks due to inhalation exposure to the trace elements were also assessed. Except for V, air concentrations were significantly higher near the oil refinery than the background levels. Human health risks were also estimated to be higher in the vicinity of the petrochemical complex. In turn, air inhalation of Pb and V was higher than their dietary intakes. The present data should be considered only as preliminary, since the sampling was taken during only three weeks, which is an insufficient period to extract reliable conclusions. Further long-term studies should be focused on assessing the influence of temporary variables, such as meteorological conditions and fugitive or sporadic emissions. • Trace elements were analysed in 30 air samples from Tarragona County. • Trace elements were significantly higher near the oil refinery than the background levels. • Non-carcinogenic risks were calculated to be much lower than one. • Carcinogenic risk for hexavalent Chromium exceeded the limit of 10−6 in El Morell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at assessing the prenatal exposure to perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in a cohort of pregnant women living in Reus (Tarragona County, Catalonia, Spain). These chemicals were biomonitored in maternal plasma during the first trimester of pregnancy, at delivery, and in cord blood. The dietary exposure of PFOS and PFOA was estimated by using questionnaires of food frequency and water intake, as well as data on food levels previously reported in the same area. In addition, the exposure through air inhalation and indoor dust ingestion was also calculated. Finally, a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model was applied in order to establish the prenatal exposure of the fetus/child and to adjust exposure assessment vs. biomonitoring results. Probabilistic calculations of fetal exposure were performed by forward internal dosimetry and Monte-Carlo simulation. Mean plasma levels of PFOA were 0.45, 0.13 and 0.12 ng/mL at the first trimester, at delivery and in cord plasma, while those of PFOS were 2.93, 2.21, and 1.17 ng/mL, respectively. Traces of PFOS were found in all samples in the trimester and at delivery, and almost in all cord blood samples. Transplacental transfers of PFOS and PFOA were estimated to be around 70% and 60%, respectively. A temporal decrease trend in plasma levels of PFOS and PFOA was noticed, when comparing current values with data obtained 10 years ago in the same area. In agreement with many other studies, dietary intake was the main route of exposure to PFOS and PFOA in our cohort of pregnant women. It is an important issue to establish the exposure in critical windows periods such as fetal development to perfluoroalkylated substances, but also to other endocrine disrupting chemicals. • PFOS was detected in most of the samples of mother plasma and cord blood. • Transplacental transfers of PFOS and PFOA were around 70% and 60%, respectively. • The dietary intake was the main exposure pathway to PFOS and PFOA. • The estimated dietary intake of PFOS exceeded the EFSA tolerable weekly intake. • Modeled PFOS levels adjusted well to biomonitoring data, validating the PBPK model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inhalation of particulate matter (PM) has been linked to serious adverse health effects, such as asthma, cardiovascular diseases and lung cancer. In the present study, coarse (PM 10-2.5), accumulation mode (PM 2.5-0.25), and quasi-ultrafine (PM 0.25) particulates were collected inside twelve educative centers of Tarragona County (Catalonia, Spain) during two seasons (cold and warm). Chemical characterization of PM, as well as risk assessment were subsequently conducted in order to evaluate respiratory and digestive risks during school time for children. Levels and chemical composition of PM were very different among the 12 centers. Average PM levels were higher during the cold season, as well as the concentrations of most toxic metals. In most schools, PM levels were below the daily PM 10 threshold established in the regulation (50 μg/m3), with the exception of school number 1 during the cold season. On average, and regardless of season, coarse PM was highly influenced by mineral matter, while organic matter and elemental carbon were prevalent in quasi-ultrafine PM. The concentrations of the toxic elements considered by the legislation (As, Cd, Pb, and Ni) were below their correspondent regulatory annual limits. Calculated risks were below the safety thresholds, being fine fractions (PM 2.5-0.25 and PM 0.25) the main contributors to both digestive and respiratory risks. • Sources of toxic elements are present inside the classrooms. • Higher PM levels and toxic elements concentrations during cold season. • Risk were below the safety thresholds regardless of season. • Carcinogenic risks were mostly linked to fine fractions (PM 2.5-0.25 and PM 0.25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentration of a number of trace elements (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sr, Sn, Tl, Ti, V and Zn) were determined in 42 commercialized denim garments (jeans and shirts), being dermal exposure subsequently assessed. Migration experiments with artificial acid and basic sweat were also conducted to determine the release of these elements, as well as indigo dye. In a similar way than for the total content, Mg (124 and 99.4 µg/g) and Mn (27.1 and 7.20 µg/g) showed the highest concentrations in both artificial sweat, acid and basic, respectively. Indigo dye migrated at levels ranged from 3.22 to 7.76 mg/g, being higher in dark than in light blue fabrics. The levels of trace elements and indigo were analysed according to materials of fabric, colour, brand, and eco-labelling. Using total content and migrations rates, dermal exposure to trace elements for adult men, women and teenagers were calculated under the two sweat extractions. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks due to dermal exposure to the elements here analysed in cloths were assessed. Both risks were in the limits of safe to according to international regulations. However, the maximum exposure to Sb reached a hazard quotient (HQ) of 0.3 in clothes partially made of polyester. Despite some authors have established that indigo is an agonist of the aril receptor, health risks due to exposure to indigo dye were not calculated due the lack of toxicological data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In 2009, a cement plant located in Alcanar (South Catalonia, Spain) started co-processing a special kind of refuse-derived fuel (RDF) called ENERFUEL™. In April 2014 and 2017, 5 and 8 years after RDF co-processing, the concentrations of metals and metalloids (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sb, Tl, V and Zn) and PCDD/Fs were measured in samples of soils, herbage and air collected in the vicinity of the facility. The comparison of the current concentrations with those obtained in a baseline study (2008), when fossil fuels were used solely, has shown that the environmental concentrations of metals, metalloids and PCDD/Fs were not significantly modified. The concentrations of metals, metalloids and PCDD/Fs in soil, vegetation and air of Alcanar are in the low part of the ranges found around other cement plants in Catalonia (in general, below 50th percentile). Non-carcinogenic risks due to exposure to metals, metalloids and PCDD/Fs were lower than the safety value (HQ<1). In turn, carcinogenic risks were below the 10−5 Spanish threshold. The present results corroborate that, from an environmental point of view, the use of wastes as alternative fuels (AF) in a cement plant, which is operating with suitable technical conditions, is a good option for waste management. It contributes towards overcoming challenges such as climate change and fossil fuel depletion, while utilizing principles of circular economy. Highlights • The environmental concentrations of metals and dioxins were not significantly modified. • Non-carcinogenic risks (metals and dioxins) were lower than the safety value (HQ<1). • Carcinogenic risks were below the Spanish 10−5 threshold. • The use of wastes as alternative fuels is being a good option for waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate matter (PM) composition has a key role in a wide range of health outcomes, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and death, among others. Montcada i Reixac, a municipality located in the Barcelona metropolitan area (Catalonia, Spain), for its location and orography, is an interesting case- study to investigate air pollution. The area is also characterized by the presence of different industrial emission sources, including a cement factory and a large waste management plant, as well as an intense traffic. In this study, PM 10 levels, trace elements, ions, and carbonaceous particles were determined for a long time period (2013–2016) in this highly polluted area. PM 10 samples were collected during six consecutive days in two campaigns (cold and warm) per year. A number of elements (As, Ba, Be, Bi, Ca, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Dy, Er, Eu, Fe, Ga, Gd, Ge, Hf, Hg, Ho, K, La, Li, Hg, Mg, Mn, Mo, Nb, Nd, Ni, Pb, Pr, Rb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sn, Sr, Tb, Th, Ti, Tl, U, V, W, Y, Yb, and Zr), ions (Cl - , SO 4 2- , NO 3 - , and NH 4 + ), and carbonaceous content (total carbon, organic plus elemental carbon, and CO 3 2- ), were analysed. These data were used to identify the PM 10 main components: mineral matter, sea spray, secondary inorganic aerosols, organic matter plus elemental carbon, trace elements or indeterminate fraction. Although a clear seasonality (cold vs. warm periods) was found, there were no differences between working days and weekends. Obviously, the cement plant influences the surrounding environment. However, no differences in trace elements related with the cement plant activity (Al, Ca, Ni and V) between weekdays and weekends were noted. However, some traffic-related elements (i.e., Co, Cr, Mn, and Sb) showed significantly higher concentrations in weekdays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the interest in determining the chemical composition of textile products has increased among the scientific community and regulatory agencies, driven by toxicological issues and environmental concerns. Chemical elements are naturally present in clothing as natural fibers or intentionally added during manufacture. Some of them show physical-chemical properties that allow their absorption through the skin. In addition, chronic situations increase the dermal exposure capacity. Because of age-specific behavioral characteristics and underdeveloped physiological function, children may be especially sensitive to exposure to trace elements. This study aimed to analyze the levels of twenty trace elements in 120 clothing items commercialized in Spain. Textile products for pregnant women and children <36 months old were included. The potential health implication of this dermal exposure in early life was also evaluated. Aluminum, zinc, and titanium showed the highest concentrations, with median levels of 27.6, 5.6, and 4.2 mg/kg, respectively. Since chromium is employed as a metal complex dye in synthetic fibers, high levels of this element were found in black polyester. Dermal exposure to titanium, which is a ubiquitous element in clothes made of synthetic fibers, was associated with a hazard quotient (HQ) higher than the threshold value (HQ > 1), with values of 1.13 for pregnant women and 1.22 for newborns. On the other hand, HQ values of other elements and cancer risks were lower than the recommended values. Assessing early-life exposure to toxic elements can help to identify potential sources and to prevent or reduce human exposure, mainly in vulnerable groups. • Clothing is an important source of exposure to trace elements. • Aluminum, zinc, and titanium showed the highest concentrations in clothing. • High levels of chromium were found in black polyester. • Titanium is ubiquitous in clothes made of synthetic fibers. • The Hazard Quotient of dermal exposure to titanium is higher than 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metals in textile products and clothing are used for many purposes, such as metal complex dyes, pigments, mordant, catalyst in synthetic fabrics manufacture, synergists of flame retardants, antimicrobials, or as water repellents and odour-preventive agents. When present in textile materials, heavy metals may mean a potential danger to human health. In the present study, the concentrations of a number of elements (Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sn, Sr, Tl, V, and Zn) were determined in skin-contact clothes. Analysed clothes were made of different materials, colours, and brands. Interestingly, we found high levels of Cr in polyamide dark clothes (605 mg/kg), high Sb concentrations in polyester clothes (141 mg/kg), and great Cu levels in some green cotton fabrics (around 280 mg/kg). Dermal contact exposure and human health risks for adult males, adult females, and for <1-year-old children were assessed. Non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks were below safe (HQ<1) and acceptable (<10 −6 ) limits, respectively, according to international standards. However, for Sb, non-carcinogenic risk was above 10% of the safety limit (HQ>0.1) for dermal contact with clothes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), especially PFOS and PFOA, are two widely used synthetic chemicals that can impact human health based on evidence from animal and epidemiologic studies. In this paper, we have reviewed and summarized the influence of PFAS exposure on health, pointing the quality of evidence, and applied translational techniques to integrate evidence for PFAS policy making. This is the first review where highly referred articles on PFAS used for policymaking by several regulatory agencies were collected and evaluated based on the review guidelines developed by the US National Toxicology Program's Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) review guidelines. Several limitations were observed, including co-exposure to multiple chemicals and limited measurement of primary and secondary outcomes related to specific toxicity. However, data from all the studies provided a moderate to strong level of confidence for link between PFAS exposure and different adverse outcomes. Secondly, for translating the risk to humans, an in-silico model and scaling approach was utilized. Physiologically based pharmacokinetic model (PBPK) was used to calculate the human equivalent dose (HED) from two widely accepted studies and compared with tolerable daily intakes (TDIs) established by various regulatory agencies. Inter-species dose extrapolation was done to compare with human the relevance of dosing scenarios used in animals. Overall, a framework for translation of risk was proposed based on the conclusions of this review with the goal of improving policymaking. The current paper can improve the methodological protocols for PFAS experimental studies and encourage the utilization of in-silico models for translating risk. Framework for PFAS and health risk assessment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution by airborne particles is a serious health problem worldwide. The present study was aimed at investigating the concentrations and composition of total suspended particles (TSPs) and PM 2.5 at various industrial/commercial sites of Guangzhou, a megacity of Southern China. Major and trace elements, ions and carbonaceous fraction were determined and main components were calculated. In addition, in order to assess the potential toxic on the respiratory system of these PM, cytotoxicity of size-fractionated particles (PM 10-5.6 , PM 5.6-3.3 , PM 3.3-1.1 , PM 1.1-0.43) for a human lung cancer cell line (A549) was also investigated. Correlations between PM constituents and toxicity were assessed. Median levels of TSPs and PM 2.5 in industrial/commercial sites were 206 and 57.7 μg/m3, respectively. Nickel, Cu, Mo, Mn, Pb, and Ti were the most abundant metals in TSPs and PM 2.5. Industrial activities and coal combustion were the most important sources of carbonaceous particles in the zone. MTT assays showed that PM 10-5.6 and PM 1.1-0.43 had the highest and the lowest cytotoxicity to A549 cell lines, respectively. Inhalable particles around the manufacturing of metal facilities and formal waste treatment plants showed a high cytotoxicity to A549 cell lines. In general terms, no significant correlations were found between main components of PM and toxicity. However, W showed a significant correlation with cell viability. • We studied TSP and PM2.5 composition around some facilities in Guangzhou, China. • Cytotoxicity to lung cell line (A549) of size segregated PM was investigated. • Higher toxicity was found in PM from metal manufacturing and waste treatment. • A correlation was found between cell (A549) survival and tungsten levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of studies published on COVID-19 in recent months is certainly impressive. However, there are still important gaps to know a great number of characteristics of this disease. Among these, some potential ways of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 and the different reasons for the severity of the disease in different people. Various studies have suggested that certain air pollutants could be increasing the transmission of the coronavirus, as well as the risks of COVID-19 incidence and mortality. In the present preliminary case-study conducted in Tarragona Province (Catalonia, Spain), we studied the potential association of COVID-19 with PM 10 , NO 2 and O 3 , as well as the differences in the incidence and lethality of this disease. This Province is divided into two "health regions": Camp de Tarragona, with an important industrial complex, and Terres de l'Ebre, with a great agricultural component. In spite of the notable limitations of the current study, our preliminary findings indicate that the industrialized/urban areas of Tarragona Province show a higher incidence and mortality of COVID-19 than the agricultural/rural zones. These – and previous – results would highlight the importance of conducting specific investigations focused on directly assessing whether air pollutants such as particulate matter can act as carriers of the SARS-CoV-2. If confirmed, the recommendation on keeping the "social distance" (1.5–2 m) might need to be adapted to this situation. • COVID-19 seems to be more severe in urban/industrial areas than in those rural • A threshold of PM (50 μg/m3) might determine its correlation with COVID-19 • Social distance recommendation might need to be adapted [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Particulate matter, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are among the outdoor air pollutants that are major factors in diseases, causing especially adverse respiratory effects in humans. On the other hand, the role of respiratory viruses in the pathogenesis of severe respiratory infections is an issue of great importance. The present literature review was aimed at assessing the potential effects of air pollutants on the transmission and severity of respiratory viral infections. We have reviewed the scientific literature regarding the association of outdoor air pollution and respiratory viruses on respiratory diseases. Evidence supports a clear association between air concentrations of some pollutants and human respiratory viruses interacting to adversely affect the respiratory system. Given the undoubted importance and topicality of the subject, we have paid special attention to the association between air pollutants and the transmission and severity of the effects caused by the coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2, which causes the COVID-19. Although to date, and by obvious reasons, the number of studies on this issue are still scarce, most results indicate that chronic exposure to air pollutants delays/complicates recovery of patients of COVID-19 and leads to more severe and lethal forms of this disease. This deserves immediate and in-depth experimental investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, most of the swimsuits are mainly made of artificial fibres, which have interesting properties such as water repellence and fast drying. Swimsuits contain a wide range of additives, which can mean a hazard for the environment and/or human health. In this study, the concentrations of formaldehyde (free and water soluble), 24 aromatic amines, and 28 trace elements (Ag, Al, As, B, Ba, Be, Bi, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Sc, Se, Sm, Sr, Sn, Tl, Ti, V and Zn) were analysed in 39 swimsuits covering a wide range of materials, colours and brands. Dermal exposure and health risks were assessed for adults (men and women) aged > 18 years old, babies between 2 and < 3 years old, children (boys and girls) between 3 and < 6 years old and 6 and < 11 years old, and teenagers (boys and girls) between 11 and < 16 years old, wearing swimsuits for 4 h or 8 h. Formaldehyde and aromatic amines were below their respective detection limits in all samples (<16 and < 1.5 mg/kg, respectively). Regarding trace elements, Ti showed the highest mean levels (1844 mg/kg), being significantly higher in polyamide (3759 mg/kg) than in polyester (24.1 mg/kg) swimsuits. These high Ti levels were confirmed by environmental scanning electron microscope in a single sample made of polyamide. Increased concentrations of Cr were also observed, but only in polyamide black fabrics, with values ranging from 624 to 932 mg/kg. Non-cancer risks (hazard quotients) derived from the exposure to trace elements were in a safe zone for all analysed trace elements. Furthermore, the carcinogenic risks were evaluated for As, Cr and Pb, exhibiting values below the 10−5 threshold, with the exception of Cr in babies and children-girls. For Ti, health risks could not be calculated due to the lack of information on toxicological data. However, because Ti was the element with the highest concentrations in swimsuits, and taking into account the potential toxicity of TiO2 nanoparticles, further research is needed to assess the migration of this element from fibres to skin. • Formaldehyde and aromatic amines were below their respective detection limits for all swimsuits. • High levels of Ti and Sb were found in polyamide and in polyester, respectively. • Non-cancer risks derived from exposure to the analysed trace elements were in a safe zone. • Cr(VI) levels were close -or even slightly higher-than the carcinogenic threshold. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In the present study, the presence of a wide spectrum of major and trace elements (As, Ag, Al, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Sr, Sb, Se, Sn, Pb, V, and Zn), fatty acids, as well as some pollutants like free and total BPA and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), was analysed in human milk (n = 53) and infant formula (n = 50) samples. In addition, the infant exposure to these chemicals was assessed. The content of free BPA and several elements (Al, Ca, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, Ni, Sn, Sr, and Zn) was higher (p < 0.01) in infant formula samples. Furthermore, human milk contained levels of BPA and elements that, in almost all cases, were well below their respective EFSA and/or WHO thresholds, being also independent of the maternal characteristics (e.g., age, BMI or breastfeeding period). The fatty acid profiling also revealed major differences between human milk and infant formulas, which should be taken in account in the development of new formulas as well as in specific recommendations for the diet of breastfeeding mothers. Anyway, the results of this study reinforce that breastfeeding should be always the first feeding option in early life. Highlights • Levels of BPA and some elements were higher in infant formulas than in human milk. • Chemical concentrations were below EFSA thresholds in both breast and formula milks. • Fatty acid profiling revealed major differences according to the kind of milk. • Our results reinforce breastfeeding as the first option in early life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a number of epidemiological studies have demonstrated that exposure to air pollution is associated with several adverse outcomes, such as acute lower respiratory infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer among other serious diseases. Air pollutants such as sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide and dioxide, particulate matter (PM), ozone and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are commonly found at high levels in big cities and/or in the vicinity of different chemical industries. An association between air concentrations of these pollutants and human respiratory viruses interacting to adversely affect the respiratory system has been also reported. The present review was aimed at assessing the potential relationship between the concentrations of air pollutants on the airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the severity of COVID-19 in patients infected by this coronavirus. The results of most studies here reviewed suggest that chronic exposure to certain air pollutants leads to more severe and lethal forms of COVID-19 and delays/complicates the recovery of patients of this disease. • Air pollutants and human respiratory viruses interact to adversely affect the respiratory system. • "The association between air pollution/pollutants and COVID-19/SARS-CoV-2 has been reviewed. • Air pollutants can mean an indirect way of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. • Chronic exposure to air pollutants may lead to more severe and lethal forms of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The European Union's 7th Framework Programme (EU's FP7) project HEALS – Health and Environment-wide Associations based on Large Population Surveys – aims a refinement of the methodology to elucidate the human exposome. Human biomonitoring (HBM) provides a valuable tool for understanding the magnitude of human exposure from all pathways and sources. However, availability of specific biomarkers of exposure (BoE) is limited. Objectives The objective was to summarize the availability of BoEs for a broad range of environmental stressors and exposure determinants and corresponding reference and exposure limit values and biomonitoring equivalents useful for unraveling the exposome using the framework of environment-wide association studies (EWAS). Methods In a face-to-face group discussion, scope, content, and structure of the HEALS deliverable “Guidelines for appropriate BoE selection for EWAS studies” were determined. An expert-driven, distributed, narrative review process involving around 30 individuals of the HEALS consortium made it possible to include extensive information targeted towards the specific characteristics of various environmental stressors and exposure determinants. From the resulting 265 page report, targeted information about BoE, corresponding reference values (e.g., 95th percentile or measures of central tendency), exposure limit values (e.g., the German HBM I and II values) and biomonitoring equivalents (BEs) were summarized and updated. Results 64 individual biological, chemical, physical, psychological and social environmental stressors or exposure determinants were included to fulfil the requirements of EWAS. The list of available BoEs is extensive with a number of 135; however, 12 of the stressors and exposure determinants considered do not leave any measurable specific substance in accessible body specimens. Opportunities to estimate the internal exposure stressors not (yet) detectable in human specimens were discussed. Conclusions Data about internal exposures are useful to decode the exposome. The paper provides extensive information for EWAS. Information included serves as a guideline – snapshot in time without any claim to comprehensiveness – to interpret HBM data and offers opportunities to collect information about the internal exposure of stressors if no specific BoE is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The staggering amount of chemicals in clothes and their harmful effects on human health and the environment have attracted the attention of regulatory agencies and the scientific community worldwide. Azo dyes are synthetic dyestuffs with widespread use in textile industries, currently classified as emerging pollutants of great health concern to consumers. These compounds may release one or more aromatic amines (AAs) after reductive cleavage of their azo bounds. Twenty-two AAs have already been regulated due to their carcinogenic effects. However, since information on their potential toxicity is not currently available, several AAs have not been still regulated by the European Union. Considering this gap, the present study aimed to assess the levels of forty non-regulated AAs in 240 clothing items from Spain and Brazil. The potential impact on the health of vulnerable population groups after dermal exposure to those garments was also evaluated. In Brazil, at least one AA was detected in the clothes, while in samples obtained in Spain, only two of them showed values below the limit of detection for AAs. In 75 clothes, at least one of the measured AAs was higher than the hazardous threshold (30 mg/kg), which can mean risks to human health since these compounds are suspected to be mutagenic. Aniline, the most common AA, showed a high detection rate (82%) in clothes, with significantly higher concentrations in items commercialized in Brazil (0.35 vs. 0.17 mg/kg; p = 0.032). Moreover, o -aminobenzenesulfonic and p -phenylenediamine, suspected mutagenic, were found at relevant concentrations in several clothes, mainly made of synthetic fibers. In this study, the hazard index associated with exposure to AAs through clothing was low (0.006–0.13) for all the population groups of both countries in the medium-bound scenario. However, its value was close to 1 for Brazilian pregnant women (0.998) when the maximum concentration value was considered under an upper-bound scenario. The risk of exposure to non-regulated AAs may be underestimated since only dermal exposure was considered for risk assessment. Moreover, the co-occurrence of other carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic substances present in skin-contact clothes should mean an additional source of potential risk. • The levels of at least one AA were higher than the hazardous threshold. • Aniline showed a high detection rate and significantly higher levels in Brazil. • Synthetic fibers showed higher concentrations of non-regulated AAs. • Regulation is a tool to reduce exposure to AAs through clothing by consumers. • Non-regulated AAs are currently present at relevant levels in clothes from Spain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azo dyes used in textile products contain aromatic amines (AAs), which may be released into the environment after skin bacteria cleavage the azo bond. In Europe, 22 carcinogenic AAs are regulated. Unfortunately, no information is available in many non-European countries, including Brazil. This study aimed to determine the concentrations of 20 regulated AAs in clothes marketed in Brazil and Spain. Generally, higher levels of regulated AAs were found in samples sold in Brazil than in Spain, which is linked to the lack of regulation. Sixteen AAs showed concentrations above 5 mg/kg in samples commercialized in Brazil, while 11 exceeded that threshold in Spain. Regulated AAs with levels above 5 mg/kg were more found in synthetic clothes of pink color. Concentrations in clothing were also used to evaluate the dermal exposure to AAs in 3 vulnerable population groups. The highest exposure corresponded to 2,4-diaminoanisole for toddlers in Brazil and 4,4-oxydianiline for newborns in Spain. Non-cancer risks associated with exposure to 4,4-benzidine by Brazilian toddlers was 14.5 (above the threshold). On the other hand, 3,3-dichlorobenzidine was associated with potential cancer risks for newborns and toddlers in Brazil. Given this topic's importance, we recommend conducting continuous studies to determine the co-occurrence of carcinogenic substances. • Higher levels of aromatic amines (AAs) were found in samples purchased in Brazil. • Regulated AAs were more frequently detected in clothes made of synthetic fibers. • Health risks associated with 4,4-benzidine and 3,3-dichlorobenzidine were too high. • Regulation is a tool to reduce exposure to AAs through clothing by consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Plastisphere ecosystem on MP act as vectors of AR to the environment. • Association between MP and ARB poses a new challenge to AR control. • Questions about AR, plastisphere, treatment technologies and health are open. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we studied the exposure to three size fractions of outdoor particulate matter (PM 10 , PM 2.5 , and PM 1 ) collected in an area influenced by a cement plant. For that purpose, three groups of population were evaluated (children, adults and retired) in two seasons (summer and winter). Outdoor measured PM concentrations, as well as physiological parameters and activity patterns of the three groups of population were used as input data in two different models. The first one was an indoor air quality model, used to elucidate indoor PM concentrations in different microenvironments. The second one was a dosimetry model, used to evaluate the internal exposure and the distribution of the different PM fractions in the respiratory tract. Results from the indoor air quality model showed that special attention must be paid to the finest particles, since they penetrate indoors in a greater degree. Highest pulmonary doses for the three PM sizes were reported for retired people, being this a result of the high amount of time in outdoor environments exercising lightly. For children, the exposure was mainly influenced by the time they also spend outdoors, but in this case due to heavy intensity activities. It was noticed that deposition of fine particles was more significant in the pulmonary regions of children and retired people in comparison with adults, which has implications in the expected adverse health effects for those vulnerable groups of population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The contamination profile and the human health risk assessment of various heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb) in vegetable oils, palm oils, butter and shea butter purchased from the Nigerian market were evaluated. Univariate and multivariate analyses including the principal component analysis (PCA), hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) and heat map visualization were used to evaluate correlation, similarity and source of metals. Dietary intake and dermal absorption through the application in skin were also assessed. The heavy metals 5th and 95th percentile interval range (in mg/kg) were 0.003–0.208, 0.003–0.392, 0.003–1.344, 0.003–0.369 and 0.006–0.531 for Cd, Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb, respectively. Concentrations of Cr and Mn were significantly different across sample categories, being the levels of Mn and Ni positively correlated in both oil and butter samples. The result of PCA, HCA and heat map revealed the profile of heavy metals in oils was different from that of butters, with Pb mainly associated to oils, and Cd, Cr, Mn and Ni to butters. In some samples, the international maximum levels for Cd, Ni and Pb in edible oils were exceeded. Cadmium and Pb dietary intake through Nigerian oils and butters should not be considered negligible for human health protection. • Human health risk assessment of heavy metals in edible oils was studied. • Pb was maily associated with oils, and Cd, Cr, Mn and Ni to butters. • Mn and Ni were positively correlated to both oil and butters. • Nigerian edible oils may add to the body burden of heavy metals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widely distributed compounds with two or more fused aromatic ring, being some of them classified as carcinogenic. In the present study, the concentrations of 16 PAHs and the sum of them (∑PAHs) were determined in samples of food, feed, plant and soil collected in six different heavily polluted areas (Choba, Khana, Trans Amadi, Eleme, Uyo and Yenagoa) of the Niger Delta Region (Nigeria). Principal component analysis (PCA) was then used to identify groups of variables (PAHs) and groups of samples that were the best in rendering the environmental pollution in that Region of Nigeria. In addition, PAHs food consumption and the derived carcinogenic risks were assessed in a probabilistic way. The highest ∑PAHs (mg/kg) were: 16.7 in cow meat, 8.06 in goat meat, 25.4 in chicken meat, 7.72 in fish, 28.70 in fish feed, 15.3 in chicken feed, 8.42 in plant, and 8.80 in soil. In most of the Nigerian areas, cooked cow meat, chicken and chicken feed presented the highest impact regarding PAHs contamination. The highest intake of PAHs was through meat consumption, with a very high and unassumable carcinogenic risk, which is quite above 10−5 for some PAHs, including benzo [ a ]pyrene. The results of the present survey highlight the importance of reducing PAHs content in food, specially in meat, in the Niger Delta region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at determining mainly the concentrations of As and other metals (Cd, Cu, Hg, Pb, V and Zn) in samples of feed, soil, plants and foods (fish, chicken, goat and cow meat) grown and consumed in six areas of Niger Delta , Nigeria (Choba, Khana, Trans Amadi, Eleme, Uyo and Yenagoa). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) models were used for identifying groups of variables (i.e., elements) based on the loadings and groups of samples (i.e., plants, soil, fish, meet, feed) according to the scores that contributed most to the environmental pollution in each Nigerian area. In Choba and Khana sites, the results showed a cluster of elements like As, Pb, V and Zn, mostly associated with samples of goat and cow meat, as well as soils, and separated from another cluster of metals composed by Cu and Hg with different origin. In Trans Amadi area, a clustering of As, Cd and V was found associated to different types of meat (chicken, goat, and cow) located in the opposite side of Cu and Hg, which correlated to plants and soil. In Eleme, the strongest loadings were obtained for V and Zn associated with soil and meat (goat and cow) samples and separated from As and Cd. Finally, in Uyo and Yenagoa, dominant elements were As, Cu, Pb and Zn, with proximity to cow and goat liver samples, while Cd and V corresponded to a different pollution pattern. Lead intake trough meat and fish consumption for adults and children were much higher than the tolerable limits set by international organizations. The results of this study should allow a better understanding of the complex phenomenon of metal pollution in the feed-to-food chain and human health in Nigeria, which should help to manage a pollution reduction strategy and give priorities of research and monitoring. • Lead levels in meat and fish exceed the tolerable limits set by international organizations. • Meat and fish consumption in the Niger Delta, Nigeria may add to the body burden of lead. • Study highlights the complex phenomenon of metal pollution in the feed-to-food chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed at reconstructing the exposure to bisphenol (BPA) of 60 pregnant women from the EXHES-Spain cohort. A biomonitoring study was conducted by determining BPA levels in urine samples over the three trimesters of pregnancy. Moreover, the correlations between BPA levels and the role of different potential exposure sources, with special emphasis on the dietary intake, were also studied. Urine samples were subjected to dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction and the subsequent analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. BPA was detected in 76% of the urine samples. A significant decrease of urinary BPA levels was observed along pregnancy, as mean concentrations of creatinine-adjusted BPA were 4.64, 4.84 and 2.51 μg/g in the first, second and third trimester, respectively. This decrease was essentially associated with changes in the dietary habits of the pregnant women, including a lower intake of canned food and drinks. However, the potential role of other pregnancy-related biochemical or physiological factors should not be disregarded. Very interestingly, significant differences in urine BPA levels were found according to the fruit consumption pattern, as women who ate more citrus fruits showed lower BPA concentrations in urine. The reconstructed exposure to BPA was estimated in 0.072, 0.069 and 0.038 μg BPA/kg of body weight/day in the first, second and third trimesters, respectively. These values are far below the temporary tolerable daily intake (t-TDI) established by the EFSA. • Exposure to BPA of 60 pregnant women was reconstructed from the EXHES-Spain cohort. • BPA levels in urine were measured in the three trimester of pregnancy. • BPA was detected in 76% of the urine samples analysed. • High fruit consumption were related to lower levels of BPA. • BPA reconstructed exposure was estimated far below the EFSA temporary TDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maternal exposure to toxic and essential trace elements represents a surrogate of exposure to the unborn child. Variables of exposure as sociodemographic, lifestyles and diet may contribute to different exposure of pregnant women to specific trace elements. Blood, urine and cord blood samples of 53 pregnant women of the HEALS-EXHES cohort, recruited in Reus (Catalonia, Spain) between 2016 and 2017, were analysed for the concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb, Se and Zn. Univariate and multivariate models were built in order to assess associations between element concentrations in each matrix, and variables obtained by questionnaires on mothers' characteristics and dietary habits. Results showed several significant associations between various variables and essential trace and toxic elements. Age was associated with higher levels of Cd and Pb in cord blood samples. Multiparous women showed lower levels of Cd in maternal blood and Pb in both maternal and cord blood than nulliparous women. Hispanic mothers presented higher levels of blood As and lower levels of blood Se compared to mothers of different ethnicity. Higher education level was associated with higher As and Hg concentrations in both maternal and cord blood samples. Higher annual income diminished the level of Pb in maternal blood. Smoking in pregnancy incremented the levels of Cd in mothers' blood. Alcohol consumption may affect the absorption of Cu, Mn and Zn. Supplementations with multivitamins, folic acid and iron showed effects on elements as Cr, Mn, Se and Zn. Regarding food group intake, bluefish incremented Pb levels, while canned fish and seafood affected levels of some elements as As, Hg, Cu and Se. Other elements such as Mn and Pb were influenced by the intake of different kinds of foods. The present results showed that some modifiable lifestyles and food intakes could be the target of interventions to help pregnant women to maintain suitable concentrations of essential elements and lower levels of toxic ones, and to improve consequently neonatal health outcomes. • Significant associations were observed between elements and predictors of exposure in pregnant women. • Level of education and parity influenced the levels of As, Cd, Hg and Pb. • Smoking influenced Cd concentration and alcohol was associated to Cu, Mn and Zn levels. • Supplementation showed an effect on Cr, Mn, Se and Zn contents. • Seafood increased the levels of Cu, As, Se and Hg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The burden of organophosphate (OP) pesticides in pregnant women from Tarragona (n = 157), a Mediterranean area of intense agricultural activity, has been assessed from the study of hydroxylated organic metabolites in urine samples in the three trimesters of pregnancy. 2-Diethylamino-6-methylpyrimidin-4-ol (DEAMPY), a metabolite of pirimiphos, was the compound found in higher concentration, medians 0.66–2.8 μg/g creatinine. 4-Nitrophenol (PNP), a metabolite of parathion, medians 0.24–0.41 μg/g creatinine, was the second most abundant compound. 2-Isopropyl-6-methyl-4-pyrimidol (IMPY), a metabolite of diazinon, was also present but in lower concentrations. Except for DEAMPY, the concentrations found in this cohort were lower than those reported in studies from other countries. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for the compounds found in more than the 35% of the samples, the reliability between trimesters was poor (<0.40) to fair (0.40–0.60). Statistically significant differences were observed for the creatinine adjusted concentrations of the most abundant OP metabolites in these trimesters when examined with the Wilcoxon signed rank test for paired data. In general, no association was found between urinary OP metabolites and most demographic and lifestyle predictors. However, a positive significant association was observed for women with vegetarian diet and for women of higher economic status and eventual consumption of organic food which showed higher PNP concentrations. These results suggest that higher fruit and vegetable consumption may involve higher OP pesticide ingestion but the overall association was weak. • DEAMPY and PNP were the most abundant urinary OP metabolites in the Tarragona mothers. • Urine OP metabolite concentration homogeneity between trimesters was fair to poor. • Fruit/vegetable consumption was directly associated with higher OP metabolite levels. • Higher social class was related with higher urinary OP metabolite concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concentrations of organochlorine compounds (OCs), including pentachlorobenzene, hexachlorobenzene (HCB), hexachlorocyclohexanes (α-, β-, γ- and δ-HCH), polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs 28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153 and 180), DDT and metabolites, were measured in maternal serum samples collected at the first trimester of pregnancy, at delivery and in umbilical cord from a cohort of mother-newborn pairs from Tarragona (Spain) (n = 50), representing general population of a Mediterranean area from Southern Europe. The observed concentrations were generally low in comparison with previous studies in other world areas. Higher OC concentrations were observed in the maternal serum collected at delivery than in the first trimester and the cord blood concentrations were lower than the maternal levels. These results show for the first time a small but statistically significant increase in maternal venous concentration of OCs between the first trimester and delivery when measured in ng/ml. HCB, β-HCH and the PCB congeners in cord blood were significantly correlated with the concentrations of these compounds in maternal venous blood and the coefficients were stronger for the samples collected at delivery which was consistent with OC transfer from mother to foetus. In the case of DDT compounds, only 4,4′-DDT showed maternal-cord blood correlation which documented the low metabolic capacity of newborns for OC transformation, e.g. DDT into DDE. Maternal age was the most significant driver of the observed maternal venous OC concentrations in both periods, older ages involving higher concentrations. Higher body mass index was only significantly correlated with higher 4,4′-DDE concentrations in maternal venous blood and cord blood. In some cases, social class and education level were significantly correlated with OC concentrations, e.g. 4,4′-DDE in maternal venous blood from the first trimester and cord blood and PCB153 in maternal venous blood at delivery. In these cases, highest concentrations were found in the women with highest education level and most affluent social class. Comparison of the maternal OC concentrations of this cohort with those observed in 2002 in population of the same geographic area and age range shows decreases between two and ten times over this fourteen-year period. • Maternal serum organochlorines (ng/mL) at delivery are higher than at early pregnancy. • HCB, β-HCHs and PCBs in cord serum are correlated with maternal venous serum. • Only 4,4′-DDT shows maternal-cord blood correlation because of low newborn metabolism. • Maternal age is the most significant driver of maternal venous organochlorine levels. • Higher educated and affluent mothers had higher venous organochlorine concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposures to toxic elements or deficiencies of essential elements during pregnancy may be associated to various birth complications or even diseases in early life. The aim of this paper was to assess the concentrations of selected toxic (As, Cd, Cr, Hg, Ni, Pb) and essential trace elements (Co, Cu, Mn, Se and Zn) in blood and urine samples of delivering women at different periods of gestation and cord blood, as well as to evaluate the placental permeability for these elements. A total of 53 women participating in the HEALS-EXHES study were enrolled. In particular, 48 blood samples from 1st trimester of pregnancy, 40 blood samples at delivery, and 31 cord blood at delivery were collected. Moreover, mothers' urine were sampled at the 1st (53 samples), 2nd (53 samples) and 3rd trimester (49 samples) of pregnancy. Results showed that Hg and Mn levels in cord blood were about 2.0 times higher than in maternal blood, suggesting that these elements may be transferred from mother to fetus. The cord blood levels of As and Pb were lower (ca. the 65%) than those in maternal blood, showing that the placenta modulates the rate of transfer for these elements. Essential elements as Cu and Zn showed significantly lower levels in cord than in maternal blood suggesting that the transplacental transfer of these nutrients was very limited. In addition, correlation between paired maternal and cord blood samples for As, Hg and Pb was statistically significant indicating that the fetal body burden may reflect the maternal exposure. Cadmium, Co, Cr, Ni and Se levels did not show significant correlations between maternal and cord blood. Maternal urinary concentrations of trace elements, including As, Cr, Cu, Hg, Se and Zn decreased along pregnancy, which may cause variations in fetal exposure. The levels of toxic and essential elements in maternal blood and urine, as well as in cord blood, were for most elements at the lower end of the ranges found in the scientific literature not being of special concern for pregnant women and the unborn. • Changes during gestation altered toxic and essential elements levels. • Hg and Mn accumulated in cord blood and may be transferred to fetus. • As and Pb were moderately transferred to fetus. • Essential elements such as Cu and Zn were preferentially stored in mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]