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Previous studies have shown associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and neurobehavioral changes in children. However, few studies have focused on neonatal neurobehavioral development. This study aimed to examine the associations between prenatal phthalate exposure and neonatal neurobehavioral development in the early days of life after birth. This cohort study included 283 mother-infant pairs who participated in the Taiwan Mother Infant Cohort Study during 2012–2015. Each mother was interviewed, and urine samples were collected during the third trimester of pregnancy (weeks 29–40). Eleven common phthalate metabolites in maternal urine were analyzed. The Chinese version of the Neonatal Neurobehavioral Examination was used to evaluate early infant neurobehavioral development within five days of birth. We performed multiple linear regressions to explore the associations between phthalate exposure and neonatal neurobehavioral development. Sex differences in the association between phthalate metabolites and neonatal neurobehaviors were noted. Among girls, tertiles of phthalate metabolite concentrations were associated with worse behavioral responses and tone and motor patterns in the high-molecular-weight phthalate (HMW) and low-molecular-weight phthalate (LMW) groups. Girls in the highest tertile of di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) had a negative association with tone and motor patterns. Girls in the highest tertile of mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP) and MiBP showed a negative association with behavioral responses. In contrast, tertiles of phthalate metabolite exposure were associated with improved neurobehaviors in mono-methyl phthalate (MMP) among boys. The highest tertile of MMP was positively associated with behavioral responses, primitive reflexes, and tone and motor patterns. Our findings suggest that maternal phthalate exposure affects neonatal neurobehavioral development in a sex-specific manner. Despite the relatively small sample size, our findings add to the existing research linking maternal phthalate exposure to neonatal neurobehavioral development. Additional research is needed to determine the potential long-term effects of prenatal phthalate exposure on children. [Display omitted] • The association between neurobehavioral development and phthalate exposure differed by sex. • DEHP and MiBP are associated with poor tone and motor patterns in female infants. • MnBP and MiBP are associated with poor behavioral response in female infants. • MMP is positively associated with male neurobehavioral development scores. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Data concerning the effects of prenatal exposures to nonylphenol (NP) and oxidative stress on neonatal birth outcomes from human studies are limited. A total of 146 pregnant women were studied (1) to investigate the association between prenatal NP exposure and maternal oxidative/nitrative stress biomarkers of DNA damage (8-hydroxy-2’-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), 8-nitroguanine (8-NO 2 Gua)) and lipid peroxidation (8-iso-prostaglandin F 2α (8-isoPF 2α ), 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-mercapturic acid (HNE-MA)) and (2) to explore the associations among oxidative stress biomarkers, NP exposure, and neonatal birth outcomes, including gestational age, birth weight, length, Ponderal index, and head and chest circumferences. NP significantly increased the 8-OHdG and 8-NO 2 Gua levels. All infants born to mothers with urinary 8-OHdG levels above the median exhibited a significantly shorter gestational duration ( B adjusted = −4.72 days; 95% CI: −8.08 to −1.36 days). No clear association was found between NP levels and birth outcomes. Prenatal 8-OHdG levels might be a novel biomarker for monitoring fetal health related to NP exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] A cohort of pregnant women was established and followed until delivery. [•] Maternal NP exposure profile throughout three trimesters was characterized. [•] For multiparas and primiparas, urinary NP levels were not significantly different during gestation. [•] Second-trimester NP level is associated with a risk of low neonatal weight, especially for primiparas. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study elucidates the association of acrylamide metabolites, N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoylethyl)-cysteine (AAMA), N-acetyl-S-(1-carbamoyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-cysteine (GAMA2), and N-acetyl-S-(2-carbamoyl-2-hydroxyethyl)-cysteine (GAMA3) in urine with genetic polymorphisms of the metabolic enzymes cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) in exon 3 and exon 4, glutathione transferase theta (GSTT1) and mu (GSTM1), involved in the activation and detoxification of acrylamide (AA) in humans. Eighty-five workers were recruited, including 51 AA-exposed workers and 34 administrative staffs serve as controls. Personal air sampling was performed for the exposed workers. Each subject provided pre- and post-shift urine samples and blood samples. Urinary AAMA, GAMA2 and GAMA3 levels were simultaneously quantified using liquid chromatography-electronspray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI–MS/MS). CYP2E1, mEH (in exon 3 and exon 4), GSTT1, and GSTM1 were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Our results reveal that AA personal exposures ranged from 4.37×10−3 to 113.61μg/m3 with a mean at 15.36μg/m3. The AAMA, GAMA2, and GAMA3 levels in the exposed group significantly exceeded those in controls. The GAMAs (the sum of GAMA2 and GAMA3)/AAMA ratios, potentially reflecting the proportion of AA metabolized to glycidamide (GA), varied from 0.003 to 0.456, and indicate high inter-individual variability in the metabolism of AA to GA in this study population. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrates that GSTM1 genotypes significantly modify the excretion of urinary AAMA and the GAMAs/AAMA ratio, exon 4 of mEH was significantly associated with the urinary GAMAs levels after adjustment for AA exposures. These results suggest that mEH and/or GSTM1 may be associated with the formation of urinary AAMA and GAMAs. Further study may be needed to shed light on the role of both enzymes in AA metabolism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Previous studies have reported that p-nonylphenol (NP) can advance the age at vaginal opening in prepubertal rats. A significant exposure levels of NP was found in Taiwanese population even from the prenatal stage. The purposes of this study are to examine the urinary NP concentration of pubertal students in Taiwan and to explore its association with the development of secondary sexual characteristics. 786 pubertal students were recruited. The NP was determined using solid-phase extraction and high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescent detection. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data on occurrence of secondary sexual characteristics in the subjects. About 30% of the urine samples were positively detected. The NP concentrations ranged from ND to 178.25μgg−1 cr. Fifteen percent of the Taiwanese girls between 10.5 and 10.9years old reported having undergone menarche, which was higher than the white girls (4.6%) and the black girls (8%). There was no significant difference of urinary NP levels between groups of having and not having secondary sexual characteristics because body mass index (BMI) had significant effects on sexual development. After adjusting the effect of age and BMI, the menarcheal age remained inversely correlated with the increase of urinary NP levels. Nonylphenol exposure could disturb pubertal development and the pubertal girls seem more sensitive than pubertal boys to the exposure of endocrine disruption chemicals (EDCs). The effects of early maturation as well as the health implications need further study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Plastic waste treatment trends toward recycling in many countries; however, the melting process in the facilities which adopt material recycling method for treating plastic waste may emit toxicants and cause sensory annoyance. The objectives of this study were to analyze the pollution characteristics of the emissions from the plastic waste recycling plants, particularly in harmful volatile organochlorinated compounds, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), odor levels and critical odorants. Ten large recycling plants were selected for analysis of odor concentration (OC), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and PAHs inside and outside the plants using olfactometry, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and high performance liquid chromatography–fluorescence detector, respectively. The olfactometric results showed that the melting processes used for treating polyethylene/polypropylene (PE/PP) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic waste significantly produced malodor, and the odor levels at downwind boundaries were 100–229 OC, which all exceeded Taiwan’s EPA standard of 50 OC. Toluene, ethylbenzene, 4-methyl-2-pentanone, methyl methacrylate and acrolein accounted for most odors compared to numerous VOCs. Sixteen organochlorinated compounds were measured in the ambient air emitted from the PVC plastic waste recycling plant and total concentrations were 245–553μgm−3; most were vinyl chloride, chloroform and trichloroethylene. Concentrations of PAHs inside the PE/PP plant were 8.97–252.16ngm−3, in which the maximum level were 20-fold higher than the levels detected from boundaries. Most of these recycling plants simply used filter to treat the melting fumes, and this could not efficiently eliminate the gaseous compounds and malodor. Improved exhaust air pollution control were strongly recommended in these industries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The current official policy regarding food waste management tends towards recycling for composting usage; however, malodors emitted from food waste composting plants raises other important environmental issues. The objectives of this study are to investigate the critical odorants of the emission from food waste composting plants and their human olfactory effect in general concentration ranges presented by olfactometric results. The determination of the critical odorants was made by the analysis of multiple compounds in odor samples collected inside and outside the plants using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and gas detector tubes. The results indicated that six critical odorants were found in the fields including ethylbenzene, dimethylsulfide, trimethylamine, p-cymene, ammonia and acetic acid. Even ethylbenzene, dimethylsulfide, trimethylamine and p-cymene required similar and extremely low olfactory threshold (0.002ppm), their olfactometric effect patterns were significantly different; the linear correlation could be found for these compounds in high concentration ranging from 0.25 to 100ppm (P <0.01); however, at low concentration ranging from 0.002 to 1ppm, only trimethylamine presented a significant linear correlation (P <0.01), ethylbenzene and dimethylsulfide both presented logarithmic correlation (P <0.05), and p-cymene was without any correlation (P >0.05). At the same concentration of 5ppm, the olfactometric results for trimethylamine, dimethylsulfide, p-cymene and ethylbenzene were 21 000, 1000, 300 and 74 Odor Concentration (OC), respectively (the ratio was 284:14:4:1). Trimethylamine contributed the most to this odor problem. Acetic acid showed a significant linear correlation in concentrations 0.1–50ppm (P <0.01), but ammonia had no correlation in concentrations 5–100ppm (P >0.05). This study not only indicated the specific olfactory effect patterns for the critical odorants emitted from food waste composting plants, but provided the practical information for the odor control engineering to judge the elimination priority. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Nonylphenol (NP) is an environmental hormone commonly found in daily foodstuffs. This study examined maternal and umbilical-cord blood samples to explore prenatal exposure levels to nonylphenol and placental protection against NP exposure. One hundred and seventy-four mixed cord blood samples were collected. Among them, 42 pairs of expectant mothers and their prenatal fetus were matched to compare nonylphenol levels between mothers and fetuses. An additional 30 mother-infant dyads were chosen to give maternal, umbilical arterial and venous blood samples. Plasma samples were enzymatically deconjugated and then cleaned up with solid-phase extraction. After extraction, samples were analyzed with reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescence detection. Analytical results identified prenatal exposure to NPs and relatively high prenatal exposure levels in metropolitan areas. The concentrations ranged from undetectable (below 1.82ng/g plasma) to 211ng/g plasma. Concentrations of NP in mother-infant dyads showed the NP concentrations in maternal plasma were not definitely higher than that in fetal plasma. Still, 63.6% of NP detectable mother-infant dyads showed a higher concentration in umbilical venous plasma than those in umbilical arterial plasma. Through the repeated exposure from expectant mothers’ dietary intake, fetuses could encounter high NP exposure level due to transplacental absorption, partitioning between the maternal and fetal compartments, as well as poor detoxification mechanisms of the developing organism. Some mechanisms may contribute to the reduction of NP levels in fetal blood circulation but those remain unclear. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Phthalates are widely used in industry and consumer products. Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and di-n-butylphthalate (DBP) show the greatest potency of reproductive toxicants among phthalates. The purposes of this study are to examine the migration level of phthalate from PVC films by simulating food handling and to reveal the body burden of phthalate for Taiwanese. In order to estimate a worst-case of phthalate migration, food was covered with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films and then microwave heated. Results show that DEHP level in food increased significantly after heating for 3 min. Under the heating condition, the calculated intake of phthalate and the percentage of the tolerable daily intake (TDI, based on body weight of 60 kg) from eating one 400-g meal were 1705.6 μg and 92.2% for DEHP. Determination of urinary metabolites from 60 subjects reveals more than 90% of samples were detectable for mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), mono-butyl phthalate (MBP) and mono-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP). Notably, the median value of estimated daily intake of DEHP had reached 91.6% of TDI established by the European Union Scientific Committee for Toxicity, Ecotoxicity and the Environment (CSTEE) (1998). Thirty-seven percent of the study population exceeded the TDI and 85% exceeded the reference dose (RfD) of the US EPA. We conclude that the body burden of DEHP for Taiwanese reflects the intensives use of plastic materials in the region. The regulation of PVC for food preparation is necessary. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Alkylphenol polyethoxylates (APEO), alkylphenols combined with ethylene oxide, are a class of nonionic surfactants. APEO have been widely used for industrial, agricultural and household applications, and are biodegraded to more persistent and estrogen-active products, namely, nonylphenol (NP), octylphenol (OP), butylphenol (BP), nonylphenol monoethoxylate (NP1EO) and nonylphenol diethoxylate (NP2EO). This study determined NP levels in commonly consumed foodstuffs to assess daily intake of NP in a Taiwanese population. This study analyzes 318 of samples from 25 types of commonly consumed foodstuffs in northern, central, southern and eastern regions of Taiwan and estimates daily intake of NP in 466 subjects. Moreover, daily NP intake for 3915 additional subjects was estimated by analyzing data from the Nutrition and health survey in Taiwan (NAHSIT). The foodstuff samples were analyzed for five alkylphenol compounds simultaneously by HPLC with fluorescence detection. Additionally, the average compositions of typical foods consumed in Taiwan were investigated. In combination with alkylphenol levels in these foodstuffs, daily intake of NP in Taiwanese was calculated. The average daily intake of NP for the 466 subjects was 28.04±25.32 μg/day. Estimated daily intake of NP, based on NP levels in this study as well as the NAHSIT data, was 31.40 μg/day. Rice was the most commonly consumed source of NP, the proportion was 21.46% among daily intake of NP and the following were aquatic products and livestock, which percentage were 17.97% and 17.38%, respectively. Additionally, oysters had the highest NP levels (235.8±90.7 ng/g) in four regions of Taiwan, followed by salmon (123.8±116.2 ng/g). This study suggested that the average daily NP intake in Taiwan is 4-fold and 8.5-fold higher than daily intake in Germany and New Zealand, respectively and rice was the major source of NP intake. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

To our knowledge, the characteristics of acid aerosols from sulfur-rich geothermal emissions and human activity have not been reported. This study determines the ambient air concentrations of such chemical components as H2S, SO2, HONO, HNO3, NO2−, NO3−, SO42− and H+ in the geothermal area of metropolitan Taipei. Acid aerosols were sampled using a honeycomb denuder/filter pack sampling system (HDS). The highest H2S concentration was 680.7 ppb and the mean was 185.7 ppb at the geothermal sampling site. Very high sulfate concentrations (mean concentration higher than 10 μg m−3) were also observed. The spatial variations are typical of sulfur-containing compounds and H+ aerosols; both have concentrations higher closer to the source of geothermal emissions. The daytime means of acid aerosols are generally higher than the corresponding nighttime values. Geothermal emissions, automobile combustion sources and photochemical reactions are concluded to dominate the characteristics of acid aerosols in the studied area. Direct emissions of SO42− and H+ with geothermal steam must be further clarified. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

No information is available on the long-term effects on thyroid and growth hormones of children exposed to phthalate-tainted products, despite the infamous 2011 Taiwan phthalate episode. We investigated estimated daily intake levels and their long-term effects on serum thyroid and growth hormone levels in children. We recruited 166 children (2–18 years old) in three visits who provided specimens and filled out a questionnaire from the Risk Assessment of Phthalate Incident in Taiwan (RAPIT) project study from 2012 to 2016. Morning spot urine samples were analyzed for nine phthalate metabolites. Serum thyroid (triiodothyronine [T 3 , thyroxine [T 4 , and free T 4) and growth hormone (insulin-like growth factor-1 [IGF-1] and its binding protein 3 [IGF-BP3]) levels were measured. A generalized estimating equation model was used to evaluate associations between phthalate metabolite levels and children's thyroid and growth hormone levels. The median metabolite levels of monomethyl phthalate (MMP), Σdibutyl phthalate (DBP), and Σdi-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) at visits 1, 2, and 3 were 6.59, 10.5, and 21.0 ng/mL, 0.15, 0.24, and 0.20 nmol/mL, and 0.15, 0.17, and 0.12 nmol/mL, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, we found that levels of urinary MMP were negatively associated with T 3 (β = −0.013, p = 0.047), T 4 (β = −0.016, p = 0.006), free T 4 (β = −0.012, p = 0.002), and IGF-BP3 (β = −0.025, p = 0.003). Urinary mono-ethyl phthalate (MEP) was negatively associated with IGF-1 (β = −0.027, p = 0.029) and IGF-BP3 (β = −0.016, p = 0.018). In addition, serum free T 4 was positively associated with urinary mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxy hexyl phthalate (MEHHP) (β = 0.016, p = 0.043), mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl phthalate (MEOHP) (β = 0.015, p = 0.024), and ΣDEHPm (β = 0.019, p = 0.020). Our findings support the hypothesis that specific phthalates disturb the hemostasis of thyroid and growth hormone levels in children exposed to phthalate-tainted products. Image 1 • A longitudinal cohort study assessed phthalate exposure and thyroid and growth hormone levels. • MMP was negatively related to T 3 , T 4 , free T 4 , and IGF-BP3. • MEP was negatively related to IGF-1 and IGF-BP3. Capsule : Urinary phthalate metabolite levels are associated with thyroid and growth hormones in children exposed to phthalate-tainted products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Parabens are a group of esters of parahydroxybenzoic acid and are utilized as antimicrobial preservatives in the majority of personal care products (PCPs). Epidemiological studies regarding the adverse effects of parabens on fetuses are still limited. The aim of this study was to determine the association between maternal paraben exposure and birth outcomes. One hundred and ninety-nine pregnant women were enrolled, and maternal urine was collected in the third trimester. The urine concentrations of four parabens (methyl (MP), ethyl (EP), propyl (PP), and butyl (BP)) were determined by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Generalized additive model-penalized regression splines and a multivariable regression model were employed to determine the association between paraben exposure levels and birth outcomes. A causal mediation analysis was conducted to determine the mediation effect of oxidative stress on birth outcomes. The geometric means of urinary MP, EP, PP, and BP were 51.79, 1.26, 4.21, and 1.25 μg/g cre., respectively. In the penalized regression splines, sex-specific associations between maternal MP levels and birth outcomes were observed; a downward curvature was observed between the MP level and birth weight, length, head circumference, and thoracic circumference among female newborns. Pregnant women in the group with MP levels above the third quartile had neonates with significantly lower body weight (β = -215.98 g, p value = 0.02) compared to those in the group with MP levels lower than the third quartile. No significant mediation of oxidative stress was observed between maternal MP exposure and female birth weight. The estimated proportion mediated ranged from -6% to 15%. The negative association between maternal paraben exposure and female birth outcomes in relation to child development should be carefully considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined whether maternal bisphenol A (BPA) exposure influences birth outcomes through oxidative stress and estimated the daily intake of BPA through breast milk for infants. One hundred and eighty-six pregnant women without pregnancy complications were enrolled and maternal urine was collected in the third trimester. Postnatal breast milk was collected in the first and third months after delivery. Concentrations of BPA were determined through ultra performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Generalized additive model-penalized regression splines and a multivariable regression model were employed to determine the effects of BPA exposure and oxidative stress levels on birth outcomes. A causal mediation analysis was conducted to clarify the mediation effects of oxidative stress due to maternal BPA exposure on birth outcomes. The daily intake of BPA in breast milk was calculated using probabilistic risk assessment methods. The geometric means (geometric standard deviation) of BPA levels for maternal urine and first- and third-month breast milk were 2.19 (2.88) μg/g creatinine., 1.35 (3.53) ng/g, and 3.17 (2.97) ng/g, respectively. No significant mediation existed among maternal BPA exposure, oxidative stress level, and neonatal head circumference. Three percent of 1-monthold babies and 1% of 3-month-old babies exceeded the BPA tolerable daily intake of 4 μg/kg-bw/day proposed by the European Food Safety Authority. This study revealed the BPA exposure profile for pregnant women and infants in northern Taiwan. The marginally significant correlation between maternal BPA exposure and neonatal head circumference should be considered. • A significant association existed between maternal BPA level and lipid peroxidation. • A downward curvature was observed between maternal BPA level and birth head circumference. • Daily BPA intake through breast milk among babies could exceed the temporary TDI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phthalate exposure is omnipresent and known to have developmental and reproductive effects in children. The aim of this study was to determine the phthalate exposure sources and their relative contributions among children in Taiwan. During the first wave of the Risk Assessment of Phthalate Incident in Taiwan (RAPIT), in 2012, we measured 8 urinary phthalate metabolites in 226 children aged 1-11 years old and in 181 children from the same cohort for the wave 2 study in 2014. A two-stage statistical analysis approach was adopted. First, a stepwise regression model was used to screen 80 questions that explored the exposure frequency and lifestyle for potential associations. Second, the remaining questions with positive regression coefficients were grouped into the following 6 exposure categories: plastic container/packaging, food, indoor environment, personal care products, toys, and eating out. A mixed model was then applied to assess the relative contributions of these categories for each metabolite. The use of plastic container or food packaging were dominant exposure sources for mono-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (MEHP), mono-2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl phthalate (MEHHP), mono-2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl phthalate (MEOHP), and mono-n-butyl phthalate (MnBP). The indoor environment was a major exposure source of mono-methyl phthalate (MMP), mono-benzyl phthalate (MBzP), and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP). The consumption of seafood showed a significant correlation with MEHP. The children's modified dietary behavior and improved living environment in the second study wave were associated with lower phthalate metabolite levels, showing that phthalate exposures can be effectively reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Childhood and adolescent mental health problems may increase the global burden of disease. Neurotoxic metals are associated with inflammation and cytotoxicity in the brain. In addition, prenatal phthalate ester (PAE) exposure is associated with cognitive function deficits. However, the effect of co-exposure to toxic metals, PAEs, and their association with child behavior is less well studied. Hence, we aimed to investigate prenatal co-exposure to the metals and PAEs and the consequent behavioral outcomes in early childhood. We followed pregnant women and their newborns from the Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study between 2015 and 2017, with a focus on women from the central, southern, and eastern areas of Taiwan. We quantified maternal urinary concentrations of metals and metabolites of PAEs as surrogates of prenatal exposure. We recorded the Child Behavior Checklist scores according to caregiver reports at 4 years of age, and identified Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5)-oriented problems. Ultimately, 408 children were included in the statistical analysis. Maternal urinary copper levels were significantly associated with depressive problems (odds ratio [OR] = 2.13) in children. Maternal urinary concentrations of mono- n -butyl phthalate (MnBP) and mono-isobutyl phthalate (MiBP) were also significantly associated with depressive symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.51 and 1.53, respectively). Further analysis considering prenatal co-exposure to metals and PAEs showed that co-exposure to these materials was significantly associated with autism spectrum problems (OR = 3.11). We observed that prenatal single exposure or co-exposure to metals and PAEs may play a role in some DSM-5-oriented problems in children at 4 years of age. Reduction of exposure to toxic metals and PAEs in pregnancy is suggested to prevent increased mental health problems in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background A major threat to public health involving phthalate-tainted foodstuffs occurred in Taiwan in 2011. Phthalates, mainly di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), were intentionally added to several categories of food commonly consumed by children. This study investigated the relationship between intake of the phthalate-tainted foods and renal function in children. Methods Children aged ≤ 10 years with possible phthalate exposure were enrolled in this study between August 2012 and January 2013. Questionnaires were used to collect details of exposure to phthalate-tainted foodstuffs, and blood and urine samples were collected for clinical biochemical workup. The clinical biomarkers of renal injury, including urinary microalbumin, N-acetyl-beta- d -glucosaminidase (NAG), and β2-microglobulin were measured. Exposure was categorized based on recommended tolerable daily intake level defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (0.02 mg/kg/day) and the European Food Safety Authority (0.05 mg/kg/day). Results We analyzed intake and renal function of 184 children whose intake of DEHP-tainted foods was known. Higher DEHP exposure to DEHP-tainted foods was significantly associated with increase of urine albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR). Children in the high-exposed group (daily DEHP intake (DDI) > 0.05 mg/kg/day) had 10.395 times the risk of microalbuminuria than the low-exposed group (DDI ≤ 0.02 and > 0 mg/kg/day) and no-exposed group combined after adjustment (95% CI = 1.096–98.580, P = 0.04). Conclusion Intake of DEHP from phthalate-tainted foods may be a potential risk factor for microalbuminuria, a marker of glomerular injury in children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This study assesses the association of acrylamide (AA) and glycidamide (GA) hemoglobin adducts (AAVal and GAVal) and their ratios with genetic polymorphisms of the metabolic enzymes cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1), exon 3 and 4 of microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH3 and mEH4), glutathione transferase theta (GSTT1), and mu (GSTM1) or/and the combinations of these polymorphisms, involved in the activation and detoxification of AA in humans. Fifty-one AA-exposed workers and 34 controls were recruited and provided a post-shift blood sample. AAVal and GAVal were determined simultaneously using isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-electronspray ionization/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI–MS/MS). Genetic polymorphisms of CYP2E1, mEH3 and 4, GSTT1, and GSTM1 were also analyzed. Our results reveal that the GAVal/AAVal ratio, potentially reflecting the proportion of AA metabolized to GA, ranged from 0.13 to 0.45 with a mean at 0.27. Multivariate regression analysis demonstrates that the joint effect of CYP2E1, GSTM1, and mEH4 genotypes was significantly associated with AAVal and GAVal levels after adjustment for AA exposures. These results suggest that mEH4 and the combined genotypes of CYP2E1, GSTM1 and mEH4 may be associated with the formation of AAVal and GAVal. Further studies may be needed to shed light on the roles that phase I and II enzymes play in AA metabolism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Nonylphenol (NP), a final metabolite of nonylphenol polyethoxylate, has been reported to interfere with male reproduction. However, its mechanisms are not fully understood. In the present study, we examined the effects of NP on steroidogenesis of testosterone in rat Leydig cells. The testosterone concentrations in rat plasma were examined after intravenous injection of NP (100μg/kg) at different time intervals. In addition, rat Leydig cells were challenged with different concentrations of NP (4.25–127.5μM) to evaluate its influences on testosterone steroidogenesis. Administration of NP showed a decrease of hCG-induced plasma testosterone. Moreover, in vitro experiments revealed that NP (127.5μM) alone stimulated testosterone release through increase of both protein levels and activities of the StAR and P450SCC. In contrast, NP inhibited hCG-induced testosterone release in rat Leydig cells. The inhibitory effect was also observed after incubation of the Leydig cells in the presence of different precursors. These results suggested that NP had differential effects on testosterone synthesis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Metropolitan Taipei, which is located in the subtropical area, is characterized by high population and automobile densities. For convenience, most primary schools are located near major roads. This study explores the exposure of acid aerosols for schoolchildren in areas in Taipei with different traffic densities. Acid aerosols were collected by using a honeycomb denuder filter pack sampling system (HDS). Experimental results indicated that the air pollutants were significantly correlated with traffic densities. The ambient air NO2, SO2, HNO3, NO3 −, SO4 2−, and aerosol acidity concentrations were 31.3 ppb, 4.7 ppb, 1.3 ppb, 1.9 μg m−3, 18.5 μg m−3, and 49.5 nmol m−3 in high traffic density areas, and 6.1 ppb, 1.8 ppb, 0.9 ppb, 0.7 μg m−3, 8.8 μg m−3 and 14.7 nmol m−3 in low traffic density areas. The exposure levels of acid aerosols for schoolchildren would be higher than the measurements because the sampling height was 5 m above the ground. The SO2 levels were low (0.13–8.03 ppb) in the metropolitan Taipei. However, the SO4 2− concentrations were relatively high, and might be attributed to natural emissions of sulfur-rich geothermal sources. The seasonal variations of acid aerosol concentrations were also observed. The high levels of acidic particles in spring time may be attributed to the Asian dust storm and low height of the mixture layer. We conclude that automobile contributed not only the primary pollutants but also the secondary acid aerosols through the photochemical reaction. Schoolchildren were exposed to twice the acid aerosol concentrations in high traffic density areas compared to those in low traffic density areas. The incidence of allergic rhinitis of schoolchildren in the high traffic density areas was the highest in spring time. Accompanied by high temperature variation and high levels of air pollution in spring, the health risk of schoolchildren had been observed. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• AA exposure and health risk assessment were studied in the general population of Taiwan. • Urinary AAMA levels positively correlated sweetened beverages and oily snacks consumption in the 6–18-year-old group. • Monte Carlo simulation showed that 1.75-19.48% among all age groups exceeded the reference dose of 2 μg/kg-body weight/day. We determined the urinary levels of acrylamide (AA) metabolites of the general Taiwanese population, explore the association between AA internal exposure and dietary intake frequency, and assess the health risk. Urine samples and dietary questionnaires were collected from the subjects of the Nutrition and Health Survey in Taiwan. AA metabolite [ N -acetyl-S-(propionamide)-cysteine (AAMA)] concentrations were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-ToF-MS). Multiple regression was used to examine associations between AA metabolite levels and dietary patterns. A total of 706 subjects were studied. We found that per increase in weekly frequency of sweetened beverages in the 6–11-years group (β = 0.322, p = 0.018) and oily snacks intakes in the 12–18-years group (β = 0.335, p = 0.012) will increase 10 β of urinary AAMA concentrations. Assuming that 50% of the AA intake is excreted as urinary AAMA, the Monte Carlo simulation showed that 1.75–19.48% among all age groups have exceeded the reference dose of 2 μg/kg-body weight/day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study attempts to determine the influence of air quality in a residential area near a medical waste incineration plant. Ambient air concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), PM10 and PM2. 5 (PM—particulate matter) were determined by collecting air samples in areas both upwind and downwind of the plant. The differences in air pollutant levels between the study area and a reference area 11km away from the plant were evaluated. Dichotomous samplers were used for sampling PM2. 5 and PM10 from ambient air. Two hundred and twenty samples were obtained from the study area, and 100 samples were taken from a reference area. Samples were weighed by an electronic microbalance and concentrations of PM2. 5 and PM10 were determined. A HPLC equipped with a fluorescence detector was employed to analyze the concentrations of 15 PAHs compounds adsorbed into PM2. 5 and PM10. The experimental results indicated that the average concentrations of PM2. 5 and PM10 were 30. 34±17. 95 and 36. 81±20. 45μgm−3, respectively, in the study area, while the average ratio of PM2. 5/PM10 was 0. 82±0. 01. The concentrations of PM2. 5 and PM10 of the study area located downwind of the incinerator were significantly higher than the study area upwind of the incinerator (P<0. 05). The concentration of PAHs in PM2. 5 in the study area was 2. 2 times higher than in the reference area (P<0. 05). Furthermore, the benzo(a)pyrene concentrations in PM2. 5 and PM10 were 0. 11±0. 05ngm−3 and 0. 12±0. 06ngm−3 in the study area, respectively. The benzo(a)pyrene concentrations of PM2. 5 and PM10 in the study area were 7 and 5. 3 times higher than in the reference area (P<0. 05), respectively. The study indicated that the air quality of PM2. 5, PM10 and PAHs had significant contamination by air pollutants emitted from a medical waste incineration factory, representing a public health problem for nearby residences, despite the factory being equipped with a modern air pollution control system. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

[Display omitted] • A major public health issue in Taiwan in 2011 involved phthalate-tainted foods. • This cohort study followed three waves in affected children over five years. • Past daily DEHP intake from DEHP-tainted foods and time had significant effects on urinary ACR, with negative interactions. • Urinary melamine levels increased urinary ACR and oxidative stress over time. • Impact of DEHP-tainted foods on urinary ACR was highest in the first wave and diminished gradually. In 2011, phthalates, mainly di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), were found to have been added to a variety of foods in Taiwan, increasing the risk of microalbuminuria in children. Exposure to melamine perhaps modifies that risk. This prospective cohort study investigates whether renal injury resulting from exposure to DEHP-tainted foods from the 2011 Taiwan Food Scandal is reversed over time. The temporal and interactive effects of past daily DEHP intake, current daily DEHP intake, and urinary melamine levels on oxidative stress and renal injury were also examined. Two hundred possibly DEHP-affected children (aged < 18 years) were enrolled in the first survey wave (August 2012–January 2013), with 170 and 159 children in the second (July 2014–February 2015) and third waves (May 2016–October 2016), respectively. The first wave comprised questionnaires that were used to collect information about possible past daily DEHP intake from DEHP-tainted foods. One-spot first morning urine samples were collected to measure melamine levels, phthalate metabolites, and markers indicating oxidative stress (malondialdehyde and 8-oxo-2′-deoxyguanosine), and renal injury (albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase) in all three waves. Generalized estimating equation (GEE) modeling revealed that both past daily DEHP intake and time might affect urinary ACR. However, most interactions were negative and significant correlation was observed only during the second wave (P for interaction = 0.014) in the group with the highest past daily DEHP intake (>50 μg/kg/day). Urinary melamine levels were found to correlate significantly with both urinary ACR and oxidative stress markers. The highest impact associated with exposure to DEHP-tainted foods in increasing urinary ACR of children was observed during the first wave, and the effect may partially diminish over time. These results suggest that continuous monitoring of renal health and other long-term health consequences is required in individuals who were affected by the scandal in 2011. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to either melamine or phthalate, two common toxicants, during pregnancy may cause adverse health effects, including kidney damage. We investigated the independent and interactive effect of exposure to melamine and phthalates, particularly di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), on markers of early renal injury in women their third trimester of pregnancy in one nationwide birth cohort, the Taiwan Maternal and Infant Cohort Study (TMICS). Between October, 2012 and May, 2015, participants were administered questionnaires, physical examinations, and blood and urine tests during their third trimester. One-spot overnight urine specimens were used to simultaneously measure melamine, 11 phthalate metabolites, and two markers of renal injury, microalbumin and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidas (NAG). Estimated daily DEHP intake was calculated based on measurement of three urinary DEHP metabolites. Microalbuminuria was defined as having a urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) higher than 3.5 mg/mmol. Total 1433 pregnant women were analyzed. The median value for urinary melamine was 0.63 μg/mmol Cr and estimated DEHP intake was 1.84 μg/kg/day. We found subjects in the highest quartile of estimated DEHP intake to have significantly higher urinary ACR (β = 0.095, p = 0.043) and the prevalence of microalbuminuria (adjusted OR = 1.752, 95% confidence interval = 1.118–2.746), compared to those in the lowest quartile. In addition, there was a significant interactive effect between urinary melamine and estimated DEHP intake on urinary ACR and NAG. Our results suggest these two ubiquitous chemicals together may be associated with markers of early kidney injury in pregnant women. • The exposure of two toxicants (melamine and phthalates) daily during pregnancy is common. • We investigate the interactive effect of exposure to melamine and phthalates, particularly di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), on markers of renal injury in the third trimester of pregnant women. • A higher estimated DEHP intake may lead to the increased excretion of urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR). • A significant interactive effect of melamine in urine and estimated DEHP intake with urinary ACR and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidas (NAG) was found. • These two ubiquitous chemicals together may be associated with markers of early kidney injury in pregnant women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]