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Abstract Artificial soils engineered with periodic or resonant structures, also referred as “seismic metamaterials” have been investigated for earthquake mitigation applications. In particular, an array of sub-wavelength single-mass resonators buried close the soil surface, namely the metabarrier, has been recently proposed to attenuate the ground motion induced by Rayleigh seismic waves. Here we demonstrate that the use of multi-mass resonators allows for enhanced performances of the metabarrier, in terms of amount and bandwidth of ground motion attenuation, with a smaller array of resonators. To this aim, after reviewing the single-mass metabarrier, we describe the dynamic of a multi-mass metabarrier using analytical and numerical approaches. In particular, we provide a detailed study of a metabarrier with double-mass resonators and compare its performances with those of a single-mass metabarrier with equivalent overall mass. Finally, we exploit Genetic Algorithms to design a metabarrier with multi-mass resonators with minimal mass and able to target selected frequencies. As a case study, the fundamental frequencies of two concrete-frame buildings of known dynamic properties are considered. The example shows the possibility to protect multiple buildings from Rayleigh waves with more compact metabarriers. Graphical abstract fx1 Highlights • A seismic metabarrier with multi-mass resonant units is proposed. • A modal approach to derive the analytical dispersion law of multi-mass barrier is provided. • The designed metabarrier can open multiple band gaps in the Rayleigh waves spectrum. • The metabarrier can be optimized to target specific resonant frequencies of buildings. • Multi-mass units allow the attenuation of surface waves with feasible metabarriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on aerosol measurements carried out in a test room, particle regional respiratory doses have been estimated for both combustion and non-combustion aerosol sources currently encountered in domestic environments. The general population chronically receives doses that, pooled together, are well above those due to urban outdoor pollution. At the end of each source operation, from 75% to 99% and from 27% to 93% of these doses are due to ultrafine particle, respectively on particle number and surface area metrics. Depending on the source, the pattern of exposure may be, for very short time laps, very intense (up to 8.0 × 10 9  particles s −1 ) and involve a fraction of particles with mode at about 10 nm. For appliance operated by brush electric motors, this mode is the major one and is due to the generation of copper nanoparticles. The health relevance of such particles deserves particular attention due to their possible translocation to the brain and in the light of the associations between copper ions and Alzheimer's disease, proposed by several studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To determine the validity of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the treatment of bone marrow edema (BME) of the medial condyle of the knee. Design Retrospective. Setting Orthopedic Surgery outpatient clinic. Participants Symptomatic patients (N=56) affected by BME of the medial condyle of the knee. Patients were equally divided into an ESWT-treated group and a control group, which was managed conservatively. Interventions ESWT delivery to the medial condyle of the affected knee. Main Outcome Measures Clinical and functional assessment of the knee was performed with the use of the clinical and functional scores of the Knee Society Score (KSS). Pain was measured with the visual analog scale (VAS). BME area was measured with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before treatment and at 4 months' follow-up. Results Clinical evaluation of patients at final follow-up of 4 months posttreatment showed a significant improvement ( P <.0001) of symptoms and knee functionality, both for range of motion and strength in both groups. VAS values were significantly improved ( P <.0001) in both groups, with 3 patients in the ESWT group being pain-free (VAS=0) at 4 months' follow-up. At 4 months, MRI assessments on both sagittal and coronal views showed a significant reduction in BME in the ESWT group compared with the control group. Conclusions Our findings show that ESWT is a valid nonpharmacologic and noninvasive therapy for spontaneous BME of the medial condyle that improves the affected vascular and metabolic state present in this pathologic disorder through its metabolic mechanisms of action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerosol number size distributions, PM mass concentrations, alveolar deposited surface areas (ADSAs) and VOC concentrations were measured in a model room when aerosol was emitted by sources frequently encountered in indoor environments. Both combustion and non-combustion sources were considered. The most intense aerosol emission occurred when combustion sources were active (as high as 4.1 × 10 7 particles cm − 3 for two meat grilling sessions; the first with exhaust ventilation, the second without). An intense spike generation of nucleation particles occurred when appliances equipped with brush electric motors were operating (as high as 10 6 particles cm − 3 on switching on an electric drill). Average UFP increments over the background value were highest for electric appliances (5–12%) and lowest for combustion sources (as low as − 24% for tobacco cigarette smoke). In contrast, average increments in ADSA were highest for combustion sources (as high as 3.2 × 10 3 μm 2 cm − 3 for meat grilling without exhaust ventilation) and lowest for electric appliances (20–90 μm 2 cm − 3 ). The health relevance of such particles is associated to their ability to penetrate cellular structures and elicit inflammatory effects mediated through oxidative stress in a way dependent on their surface area. The highest VOC concentrations were measured (PID probe) for cigarette smoke (8 ppm) and spray air freshener (10 ppm). The highest PM mass concentration (PM 1 ) was measured for citronella candle burning (as high as 7.6 mg m − 3 ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Experimental data of vapor-liquid equilibrium (VLE) and density have been analyzed. • Several equations of state have been identified and utilized for validation of data. • The impact of impurities on VLE and density estimations has been discussed. • The accuracy in the prediction of VLE and density has been analyzed. Carbon dioxide management is becoming a major topic of interest in the energy industry and carbon capture is part of this process. Carbon capture utilization and storage is considered a promising technique to mitigate the impact of the hard-to-abate industries. Despite the high level of accuracy of predictions of the thermodynamic behaviour of pure CO 2 , there are still several uncertainties when dealing with CO 2 -rich mixtures. The impact of impurities in the captured stream can impact considerably the sizing and the design of components such as pipelines and related costs. The scope of this work is to assess the capabilities of the most acknowledged Equations of State (EoS) in the energy industry to predict CO 2 -rich mixtures behaviour. In this work we assess their accuracy in the prediction of Vapour-Liquid Equilibrium (VLE) and density validating numerical results with detailed experimental data available in literature. A quantitative estimation of deviations from experimental data is provided for density and bubble points. The results show that, based on experimental data available, multi-parameters Equations of State, such as GERG-2008 and CSMA, are generally more accurate in the description of both VLE and density if compared with cubic EoS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well-known that the health effects of PM increase as particle size decreases: particularly, great concern has risen on the role of UltraFine Particles (UFPs). Starting from the knowledge that the main fraction of atmospheric aerosol in Rome is characterized by significant levels of PM 2.5 (almost 75% of PM 10 fraction is PM 2.5 ), the paper is focused on submicron particles in such great urban area. The daytime/nighttime, work-/weekdays and cold/hot seasonal trends of submicron particles will be investigated and discussed along with NO x and total PAH drifts demonstrating the primary origin of UFPs from combustion processes. Furthermore, moving from these data, the total dose of submicron particles deposited in the respiratory system (i.e., head, tracheobronchial and alveolar regions in different lung lobes) has been estimated. Dosimeter estimates were performed with the Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry model (MPPD v.2.1). The paper discusses the aerosol doses deposited in the respiratory system of individuals exposed in proximity of traffic. During traffic peak hours, about 6.6 × 10 10 particles are deposited into the respiratory system. Such dose is almost entirely made of UFPs. According to the greater dose estimated, right lung lobes are expected to be more susceptible to respiratory pathologies than left lobes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The main thermodynamic challenges associated with CO 2 transport via pipeline has been analysed. • A critical review of main flow-assurance issues related to CO 2 pipelines has been presented. • The impact of impurities, typology and their concentrations has been included. • Corrosion control strategies and water content limits have been collected through a literature review. • A collection of design parameters useful to technicians and operators has been reported. Environmental issues related to climate change have constantly been increasing in the last years, and global emissions must be managed wisely, adopting the most powerful and effective strategies available. Carbon Capture Utilization and Storage (CCUS) is claimed as a solid climate mitigation strategy for the most challenging emissions and the production of blue hydrogen. The development of an international CO 2 transportation network is considered a necessary cross-cutting topic in the whole Carbon Capture and Storage sector. CO 2 pipeline development is an essential aspect for the realization of most decarbonization CCS projects. Large-scale CCS projects will require the management and transport of CO 2 in the presence of impurities at lower costs than traditional CO 2 pipelines utilized for Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR). Thus, the accuracy of modelling carbon dioxide in the presence of other components needs to be assessed. Corrosion prediction and control are strongly related to water content and introduces uncertainties in terms of costs and corrosion risks, especially in the presence of other components and possible cross-chemical reactions. In this work, the process and flow assurance challenges related to the design of a CO 2 pipeline have been reviewed in terms of impurities, water content, and corrosion, as well as low-temperature scenarios. The main scope of this paper is to analyse the aspects that can be improved and the ones that need for further research from a thermodynamic point of view. This will help the design of a next generation of CO 2 pipelines with low CAPEX (capital expenditure) and OPEX (operating expense), suitable for large-scale CCS projects and meeting the Paris Agreements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sampling campaign for the determination of concentrations of nonylphenol isomers (NPs) in freshwaters and sediments of the hydrologic system of the Rieti district (central Italy) was conducted from 2002 to 2003. Eighteen sampling points, selected on the basis of the different human activities in the vicinity, were monitored; six series of water samples (from June 2002 to February 2003) and one of sediment samples (summer 2002) were analyzed by GC/MS.There was a direct relationship between concentrations of NPs and the presence of urban or industrial activities near the sampling point. However, concentrations of NPs in water were in the range of <0.1–1.4 μgl−1, and their presence limited to short distances from the sources of contamination. Accumulation factors in sediment samples ranged from 102 to 5×103. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In 2008 the Italian government classified the Bussi sul Tirino area (Central Italy) as Site of National Interest destined to remediation which, unfortunately, has not yet begun. The decision followed >20 years of illegal dumping of industrial wastes, lasting from 1984 to 2005, that generated the biggest illegal toxic waste disposal site in Europe. The contamination profile of the site was mainly characterized by PCDD/Fs, PCBs, PAHs, chlorinated solvents, Hg, and Pb. Due to the health concern of the population and local authorities, an extensive monitoring and biomonitoring campaign was carried out in 2017–2018, checking the site-specific pollutants in local food (free-range hens' eggs, milk from grazing sheep and goats, wild edible mushrooms, and drinking water), environmental (air and freshwaters) and biological (human urine) matrices. A total of 314 samples were processed, obtaining 3217 analytical data that were compared with regulatory limits, when available, and values reported by international literature. The sum PCDD/Fs and DL-PCBs ranged from 0.24 to 3.6 pg TEQ g−1 fat, and from 0.46 to 8.3 pg TEQ g−1 fat, respectively in milk in eggs, in line with the maximum levels established by CE Regulations except for an egg sample. As regards PAHs, all our results were lower than the literature data, as well as for Hg and Pb. Outdoor air showed levels of chlorinated solvents ranging from

The study was aimed to evaluate the ability of native lichen Xanthoria (X.) parietina to biomonitor and bioaccumulate some heavy metals (As, Cd, Co, Cr, Ni, Pb), PAHs, PCDDs, PCDFs, PCBs and PBDEs and to evaluate the use of the native X. parietina as a multi-tracer tool for scenarios characterized by different anthropogenic pressures. Samples of native X. parietina were collected in six different sites (two green, two residential and two industrial areas, respectively) and analyzed for the target compounds. The results show that X. parietina was a useful tool for the biomonitoring of air quality in the selected areas, and was able to bioaccumulate all the studied metals and POPs. In particular, the total concentrations dry weight (dw) ranged between 8.1 and 103.4 mg kg−1 for metals, from 113 × 103 to 183 × 103 ng kg−1 for PAHs, from 868 to 7685 ng kg−1 for PCBs, from 14.3 to 113.8 ng kg−1 for PCDDs/Fs (∑TEq = 0.9–7.1), and from 194 to 554 ng kg−1 for PBDEs. Besides, in general, the levels of analytes recovered in the different samples of lichen show an increasing trend from green to industrial sites, especially for PCBs (mean values equal to 1218, 4253 and 7192 ng kg−1 respectively for green, residential and industrial areas). The statistical approach, based on Pearson's correlation and principal component analysis tests, showed that one of the industrial sites was well-separated from the others, that resulted grouped due to some similarities. Image 1 • Native Xantoria parietina is a useful tool for biomonitoring air quality. • As, heavy metals and Persistent Organic Pollutants accumulate in Xantoria parietina. • A multi-tracer tool to biomonitor different scenarios was developed. The lichen Xanthoria parietina is a useful tool for biomonitoring outdoor air quality. It is able to bioaccumulate metals and POPs and to discriminate between scenarios characterized by different anthropogenic pressures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ability of transplanted lichen Evernia (E.) prunastri (L.) to act as a high spatial biomonitoring tool for 14 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) was evaluated at 23 monitoring sites in a very polluted area in central Italy. The selected area is characterized by the presence of numerous emission sources, such as waste-to-energy plant, steel plant, vehicular traffic, and domestic heating. Transplanted E. prunastri proved to be a useful tool to biomonitor PBDEs, due to its ability to bioaccumulate individual congeners in varying concentrations in relation to the strength of the emission sources present over the territory. PBDEs levels widely ranged from 132 to 24,237 ng kg−1 dry weight, according to the sources of emission located around the monitoring sites. The highest concentrations were detected at the sites close to the municipal solid waste incinerator, steel plant, and high busy roads, confirming their important role as PBDEs emissions sources. Unlabelled Image • 23 transplanted lichens were placed in a very polluted area in central Italy. • 14 PBDEs were detected in all the 23 biomonitoring sites. • PBDEs were mainly emitted by waste-to-energy plant, power plant and steel plant. • Evernia prunastri was able to bioaccumulate the 14 monitored PBDEs. • Evernia prunastri was able to bioaccumulate PBDEs according to emission sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Frameless stereotactic biopsy represents a minimally invasive procedure used for the histopathological diagnosis of brain tumors or to safely approach deep-seated lesions near eloquent areas not amenable for classical neurosurgical procedures. Traditionally, biopsy is performed relying on anatomical landmarks, but it can lead itself to intra- and postoperative complications, such as hemorrhage and fiber disruption. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) tractography represents a useful tool that can analyze the individual fiber tract conformation in cases of brain tumor and consequently identify the best biopsy trajectory, preserving white matter pathways. In our study, we present a novel technique that is based on the use of preoperative DTI for biopsy. Between January 2018 and January 2020, data about patients who underwent frameless biopsy using DTI tractography were retrospectively reviewed. The inclusion criterion was adult patients eligible for elective surgery for a single or multiple deep-seated lesions with contraindications to complete surgical resection. We included 12 patients (mean age of 67.9 [±9.6] years). A single cranial lesion was detected in 7 cases, and multiple lesions in 5 cases. The use of DTI enabled the identification of white matter pathways in all cases and adjustment of the biopsy trajectory based on anatomical landmarks in 7 cases. Postoperative hematoma was reported in 1 case, and histological diagnosis was obtained in 11 cases. According to our results, tractography is a useful tool that can enhance the safety of cerebral lesions biopsy sparing any fiber tract damages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract A variety of appliances operated by brush electric motors, widely used in indoor environments, emit nanoparticles (NPs). Due to electric arc discharge during the operation of such motors, some NPs contain copper (Cu). Their dimensions are the same of those found in brain tissue samples by other authors who speculated their possible translocation to brain through olfactory bulb. Cu has been reported to play an important role in the etiopathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Thus, the present study was performed to 1. estimate by means of Multiple-Path Particle Dosimetry model the doses of NPs released by electric appliances that can potentially deposit on the olfactory bulb; 2. investigate the morphology and the composition of particles emitted by some electric appliances daily used in indoor environments; 3. monitor for a long time period the Cu contamination of indoor environments due to this kind of appliances. About 106–107 NPs deposit on the olfactory bulb during the operation (1.5–6 min) of such appliances, with a major contribution due to 10–20 nm NPs. HR-FESEM characterization confirmed the presence of such NPs, that were observed both as individual particles (20–40 nm) and aggregated to form particles in the μm sizes range. XEDS microanalysis revealed the presence of Cu together with other elements. Relevant daily contamination of indoor environments due to these appliances has been confirmed by monitoring throughout a year the Cu content of PM 10 samples collected both indoor and outdoor private dwellings. Cu was present in great part as an insoluble form. This means that, following protracted exposure, Cu NPs of such origin may undergo tissue accumulation. This is cause of concern because general population is chronically exposed to such Cu nanoparticles in indoor environments and in view of the role assigned to Cu in the development of neurological disorders. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Appliances operated by brush electric motors emit Cu nanoparticles (NPs). • 106–107 NPs deposit on the olfactory bulb during appliances operation (1.5–6 min). • Both single 20–40 nm NPs and aggregated particles were observed through HR-FESEM. • Cu indoor contamination was >2-fold higher indoor than outdoor. • General population is chronically exposed to Cu NPs in indoor environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the present study were to establish reference values useful in monitoring Lithium (Li) treatment and to trace environmental Li exposure profiles in paediatric age. A cross-sectional study was conducted on a group of healthy Italian children aged 5–11. Data on possible predictors were assessed through a questionnaire, and Li levels in morning and evening urinary samples were determined by ICP-MS technique. The reference intervals for the evening and morning samples were respectively 3.8–51.9 μg L − 1 or 5.6–60.6 μg g − 1 creatinine and 4.8–71.7 μg L − 1 or 4.8–73.2 μg g − 1 creatinine. Urinary Li levels showed a significantly inverse correlation with age and a positive correlation with urinary creatinine in both the evening and morning samples. No other studied variables influenced Li urinary excretion. These results, obtained using a readily available matrix as urine, can be useful for both environmental research and Li treatment monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerosol measurements were carried out in a model room where both combustion (conventional and hand-rolled cigarettes, a cigar and tobacco pipe) and non-combustion (e-cigarette and IQOS®) devices were smoked. The data were used to estimate the dose of particles deposited in the respiratory systems of individuals from 3 months to 21 years of age using the multiple-path particle dosimetry (MPPD) model. Regardless of the smoking device, the highest doses were received by infants, which reached 9.88 × 10 8 particles/kg bw during a cigar smoking session. Moreover, 60% to 80% of the particles deposited in the head region of a 3-month-old infant were smaller than 100 nm and could be translocated to the brain via the olfactory bulb. The doses due to second-hand smoke from electronic devices were significantly lower, below 1.60 × 10 8 particles/kg bw, than those due to combustion devices. Dosimetry estimates were 50% to 110% higher for IQOS® than for e-cigarettes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the present study was to investigate the role of Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) exposure in domestic environment, the smoking policies adopted at home on urinary excretion of 23 trace elements present in tobacco and/or tobacco smoke (Li, Be, B, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Rb, Sr, Cd, Sn, Sb, Te, Cs, Tl, Pb, Bi, U) among a sample of healthy Italian school-aged children. The levels of monitored trace elements in urine samples from 110 children (5–11 years) living in a rural area and recruited in a cross-sectional study were measured via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, while information regarding demographic characteristics and ETS exposure of the participants were obtained from questionnaires. Univariate elaborations evidenced that Co and Mn levels increased in children exposed to ETS in domestic environment, but multiple linear regression analyses revealed the independent effect of the habit of cohabitant(s) smoker(s) of smoking at home when children is present on urinary concentrations of Li, Ti, V, Co, Ga and Sr. Besides, we found significant gender- and age-dependency of some monitored elements: females presented higher Cu and Pb levels, but lower Rb levels respect to males, while age displayed a significant negative independent effect on the Cr, Co, Rb, and Sn concentrations, but positive on Ga levels. Finally, u-creatinine was a significant predictor for almost all the analytes, but not for Mn, Cd, Sb, Ga. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aims of the present study were to establish the background levels of 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodGuo), 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanosine (8-oxoGuo), 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoGua) among a group of healthy Italian children, and to evaluate the contribution of some potential interfering/confounding factors to the urinary (u) levels of these biomarkers of oxidised guanine derivatives. The levels of 8-oxodGuo, 8-oxoGuo, 8-oxoGua, and u-cotinine in urine samples from 159 healthy children (5–11 years) recruited in a cross-sectional study were measured via liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Data regarding the anthropometric and life-style characteristics of the participants were obtained from questionnaires. The 5th–95th percentiles of the levels of 8-oxodGuo, 8-oxoGuo, and 8-oxoGua for all children were 2.4–13.9, 3.8–19.9 and 5.4–79.5 μg/L and 2.9–12.6, 4.8–15.2, and 5.1–93.4 μg/g creatinine, respectively. Significant correlations were found between the level of 8-oxoGuo and that of 8-oxoGua and 8-oxodGuo but not between the level of 8-oxoGua and that of 8-oxodGuo in all children and in both the male and female subgroups. Multiple linear regression analyses revealed the independent effect of the investigated variables on 8-oxodGuo, 8-oxoGuo, and 8-oxoGua. u-Creatinine was the most significant predictor of the urinary excretion of both 8-oxoGuo and 8-oxodGuo, age displayed a significant positive independent effect on the level of 8-oxoGuo, whereas the weight status according to the BMI was negatively associated with the level of 8-oxodGuo. None of the chosen independent variables influenced the levels of 8-oxoGua. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Determination of 22 PAHs in honey samples by DLLME-GC–MS. • Chemometric approach for identifying the main PAHs responsible of contamination. • Comparison with similar database for evidencing the contamination sources. • Chemometrics for tracing the food quality based on the production area. The quality of honey is assessed through the determination of some commodity parameters: a certain importance is to be attributed to the absence of contaminating residues, in particular of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). This paper deeply investigates the presence of 22 PAHs in 57 honey samples collected in Central Italy and identifies the possible source apportionment and fingerprint identification by DLLME-GC–MS analysis and a chemometric approach. Cluster Analysis and Principal Component Analysis have allowed to identify the main PAHs responsible of the contamination, benzo[ a ]anthracene and phenanthrene, characteristics pollutants of areas constantly exposed. The entire database has been compared to similar ones present in literature, particularly data from Serbia and Belgrado samples. The PCA applied to overall the data confirms the combustion to be the main contamination source in Italian samples whereas highlights the importance of the role of naphthalene, added during beekeeping practices in the other data-set. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The aims of the study were to evaluate the feasibility of urinary trans, trans-muconic acid (u-t,t-MA) and urinary S-phenylmercapturic acid (u-SPMA) as markers of exposure to urban benzene pollution for biomonitoring studies performed on children and to investigate the impact that creatinine correction may have on the classification of children exposure status. U-t,t-MA, u-SPMA, u-cotinine, and u-creatinine levels were measured in urine samples of 396 Italian children (5–11years) living in three areas with different degrees of urbanisation (very, fairly and non-urban). The median u-SPMA levels significantly increased with increased urbanisation: non-urban (0.19μg/L; 0.22μg/g creatinine)

Abstract: Benzene is a widespread air pollutant and a well-known human carcinogen. Evidence is needed regarding benzene intake in the pediatric age group. We investigated the use of urinary (u) trans,trans-muconic acid (t,t-MA), S-phenylmercapturic acid (SPMA), and unmodified benzene (UB) for assessing exposure to low concentrations of environmental benzene and the role of living environment on benzene exposure in childhood. u-t,t-MA, u-SPMA, u-UB and u-cotinine were measured in urine samples of 243 Italian children (5–11years) recruited in a cross-sectional study. Analytical results were compared with data obtained from questionnaires about participants'' main potential exposure factors. u-UB, u-t,t-MA and u-SPMA concentrations were about 1.5-fold higher in children living in urban areas than in those in the rural group. Univariate analyses showed that u-UB was the only biomarker able to discriminate secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure in urban and rural children (medians=411.50 and 210.50ng/L, respectively); these results were confirmed by the strong correlation between u-UB and u-cotinine in the SHS-exposed group and by multivariate analyses. A regression model on u-SPMA showed that the metabolite is related to residence area (p <0.001), SHS exposure (p =0.048) and gender (p =0.027). u-UB is the best marker of benzene exposure in children in the present study, and it can be used as a good carcinogen-derived biomarker of exposure to passive smoking, especially related to benzene, when urine sample is collected at the end of the day. In addition, it is important to highlight that SHS resulted the most important contributor to benzene exposure, underlining the need for an information campaign against passive smoking exposure. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

In the most common method of fresco painting, a unique integration of paint and plaster allows for frescos to acquire great durability and permanence. As the plaster or layers of fresco walls deteriorate over time, frescos become vulnerable to serious damage. In order to prevent such damage without harming frescos, non-destructive techniques must be used to analyze and determine areas of structure delamination. In the past, different non-destructive methods have been studied. However, many require expensive equipment. The main scope of this work is the evaluation of the effectiveness of non-invasive detection of fresco delamination via thermography, a comparatively inexpensive technique. In non-invasive active infrared thermography, thermal images are captured of a fresco before, during, and after a heating or cooling process. A defect beneath the surface acts as an insulative pocket, which in turn entraps heat and decreases the rate of heat diffusion. The accumulation of heat results in a defective region being abnormally hotter than a non-defective region, which causes a greater change in temperature throughout a heating or cooling process. Therefore, the analysis of the temperature change highlights defects location and entity beneath the surface. This technique was used and validated with two constructed surrogates, one with a known defect and one without a defect. The thermal analysis of the surrogates was performed via MATLAB®. Additionally, simulations of heating and cooling processes on modeled surrogates were generated in COMSOL® Multiphysics. The results of these simulations assessed the MATLAB® analysis and the use of non-invasive thermography as a tool to detect fresco delaminations. This method was then implemented on frescos within the Senate Reception Room of the United States Capitol Building. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• 23 lichen transplants were placed in a highly polluted area of Central Italy. • PCDD/Fs and PCBs concentrations were measured. • High spatial resolution data were used to map the compounds' spatial distribution. • Lichen concentrations were compared with bulk deposition sampler's data. The ability of lichen transplant Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach. to reflect air concentration and spatial distribution of 7 polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), 10 polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs), and 23 polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) was evaluated through the construction of a wide and dense biomonitoring network. For this purpose, 23 lichen transplants were placed in a highly polluted area in Central Italy, characterized by the presence of different local emission sources such as a power plant, a steel plant, vehicular traffic, and domestic heating. The high spatial resolution data obtained from lichens were used to map the spatial distribution of the studied compounds, useful to identify the location and strength of target compounds sources over the territory. The maps showed that the highest concentrations of the pollutants were detected, as expected, in the sites close to the power plant and to the steel plant, confirming their important role as persistent pollutants emission sources. The statistical analysis performed on the spatially resolved data allowed us to identify the steel plant as the main source of PCDD/Fs, while PCBs were emitted by both the steel plant and the power plant. Finally, the efficiency of lichen transplants to reflect PCDD/Fs and PCBs atmospheric concentrations was assessed by comparing lichen data with POPs deposition measured by bulk deposition samplers at sites impacted by intensive emission sources; good results were achieved from the comparison (R2 > 0.79). Lichen transplants have demonstrated to be suitable biomonitors of POPs, allowing to obtain a high spatial monitoring network. The low-cost biomonitoring and experimental approach described in this study can be applied to other monitoring campaigns for identifying localizing emission sources of POPs in areas contaminated by several disaggregated sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potential exposure to toxic elements initially occurs during gestation and after birth via breast milk, which is the principal source of nutrients for infants during the first months of life. In this study, we evaluated whether maternal oral supplementation with a multi-strain probiotic product can protect infants from exposure to arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), and lead (Pb) via breast milk. In-vitro studies of the bacterial strains present in this probiotic product showed a high bacterial tolerance for As, Cd, Hg, and Pb, and good binding capacity for Cd, Hg, and Pb (72%, 81%, and 64%, respectively) within 1 h of contact. We evaluated concentrations (5 mg L−1 for Cd and Pb, and 2 mg L−1 for Hg) that largely exceeded the provisional tolerable weekly intake of these toxic elements via food or water applicable for human consumption. Changes in the levels of these elements in breast milk and newborn stools were evaluated in the control (orally supplemented with placebo) and experimental (orally supplemented with probiotic) groups at birth (t0), 15 days (t15), and 30 days (t30) after delivery. Elemental analysis of breast milk did not show significant differences between the control and experimental groups at different stages of lactation; however, stool samples obtained from newborns of mothers supplemented with the probiotic product showed that Cd levels were significantly reduced (by 26%) at t15 compared with the levels of the controls. Our data did not show an association between concentration of toxic elements in breast milk and that in newborn stools. Indeed, the concentration of Cd, Hg, and Pb in breast milk decreased during the lactation period, whereas the levels of these elements in newborn stools were stable over time. Although our in-vitro data indicate that the consortium of these probiotic strains can absorb toxic compounds, this study was limited by its small sample size and potential uncontrolled confounding effects, such as maternal diet and lifestyle. Therefore, we could not confirm whether prophylactic use of this probiotic product can reduce the absorption of toxic elements. The risk assessment in the studied population evidenced a margin of exposure (MOE) of 1, or between 1 and 10 for Pb, and lower than 50 for As. This poses a potential risk for breastfed infants, indicating that interventions aimed to avoid breastfeeding-related health risks remain a major challenge in public health. Unlabelled Image • As, Cd, Hg, and Pb analytical method for in vitro and in vivo samples was developed. • The application of bacteria to promote element detoxification was reported. • The probiotic strains showed high tolerance and binding capacity for Cd, Hg, and Pb. • The levels of As, Cd, Hg, and Pb in both human milk and infants' stools were studied. • The risk assessment of the intake of toxic elements through lactation was discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]