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Diclofenac (DCF), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is among the main pollutants of aquatic environments. Nevertheless, even if several authors evaluated its effects on marine organisms, no work has ever analysed its impact on the sea urchin Arbacia lixula. The purpose of this study was to analyse, for the first time, the impact of DCF at different concentrations (50 mg/l, 5 mg/l, 0.5 mg/l, 0.05 mg/l) on A. lixula embryos and gametes to indicate possible safe minimum levels of release of this drug in marine environments. Our results showed significant concentration-dependent effects on embryonic development (decrease in the number of developed embryos and increase in the quantity of degenerated eggs) and significant levels of bioaccumulation at DCF concentrations of 50 mg/l in both gametes and embryos. DCF showed a significant impact on the fertilisation of A. lixula due to its effects on gametes, confirming the possibility of environmental risk and highlighting the need to improve wastewater treatment and drug disposal processes.

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of storage time at +4 °C on haematological indicators in rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792). For this purpose, 60 Italian trout were evaluated and red blood cells, white blood cells, thrombocyte count, haematocrit, haemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration were determined. After blood collection (T0), all samples were immediately analysed using an automatic method to assess the haematological parameters and then divided into two different aliquots and stored at +4 °C. The first aliquot was refrigerated for 168 h (T1), the second one for 336 h (T2). Statistical analysis (one-way repeated-measures ANOVA) showed a significant effect of storage time (P < 0.05) on red blood cells, thrombocyte count, haematocrit, haemoglobin concentration, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration. The obtained data expand our knowledge of haematological evaluation techniques and could contribute to the development of an appropriate method for haematological analysis that is suitable for the evaluation of the health status of wild and farmed fish.

The Authors have investigated on the relationship between pollution in the host parasite-system Lepidopus caudatus-Anisakis larvae. Lead, mercury and cadmium concentrations were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry in the larvae and in the muscle of fish host. Hg concentrations were often higher in parasites than host muscles. Finally, some hygienic and inspective implications were discussed.

The presence of microplastics (MPs), trace metals (TM) and metalloids (Ms) in surface seawater is a severe emerging issue of global concern. Information about the distribution of these pollutants is often lacking, and large-scale studies come with uncertainties because of difficult comparisons of results obtained using different methods to collect and process data. This study presents a comprehensive investigation of microplastics (MPs), trace metals (TM) and metalloids (Ms) in surface seawater during two transatlantic sampling campaigns, covering approximately 17,000 nautical miles. The results reveal the presence of MPs in all the samples analyzed and a broad variation in microplastic concentration (230-3320 MPs/L), with filaments or fibers being the most abundant shape. Coastal waters generally exhibit higher MPs, TM and Ms concentrations than open sea waters. The results showed high concentrations of MPs, particularly in the waters near the Faroe Islands, in the Sea of Magdalena department and in the Strait of Gibraltar. The order of the overall metals and metalloids concentrations was: As>Cr>Pb>Cd. High concentrations of Pb and Cr were recorded in the Mediterranean waters whereas high Arsenic (As) were found in the Southern coasts of United States, with values that exceeded the limits considered hazardous for aquatic life (81.55-101.12 µg/L). No significant correlations were found between microplastics, and the heavy metals examined. Here, we emphasize the need for sustainable environmental management actions and policies in a global context to monitoring the growing problem of pollutants in our oceans., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Gaetano Cammilleri reports administrative support, statistical analysis, and writing assistance were provided by Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia. Gaetano Cammilleri reports a relationship with Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia that includes: employment. If there are other authors, they declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Dietary changes expose consumers to risks from Anisakis larvae in seafood, leading to parasitic diseases and allergies. Anisakis is recognized by EFSA as a significant hazard, with potential oncogenic implications. Diagnostic advancements, like the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), enhance sensitivity and accuracy in identifying Anisakis sensitization, complementing traditional IgE tests. We conducted a cross-sectional study on patients with allergic symptoms from April 2021 to April 2023 at two outpatient clinics in western Sicily. Our goal was to assess the prevalence of Anisakis -related allergies and to identify risk profiles using specific Anisakis IgE and the BAT, especially in regions with high raw fish consumption. The study evaluated specific Anisakis IgE as a screening tool for Anisakis sensitization, using questionnaires, blood samples, and immuno-allergology analyses. Anisakis -specific IgE values were compared with the BAT results, with statistical analyses including Fisher's exact test and logistic regression. The results showed an 18.5% seroprevalence of Anisakis IgE, while the BAT as a second-level test showed 4.63%, indicating the BAT's superior specificity and accuracy. The study highlighted the importance of the BAT in diagnosing Anisakis sensitization, especially in cases of cross-reactivity with Ascaris and tropomyosin. The findings confirm the BAT's exceptional specificity in identifying Anisakis sensitization and support using Anisakis -specific IgE for population-based risk profiling. The BAT can effectively serve as a confirmatory test.

Dolphins, top predators of the aquatic food chain, are used as sentinel species of marine pollution as they are sensitive to environmental changes and able to accumulate a large content of contaminants. Several EU directives promote study of marine mammalians as bio-indicators to evaluate the presence of contaminants in the aquatic environment, such as the Mediterranean Sea, which is rich in environmental pollutants due to its geographic and geo-morphological characteristics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of toxic and essential metals and metalloids (Hg, Pb, Cd, As, Se and Zn), through ICP-MS analysis, in organs/tissues (liver, muscle, lung, kidney and skin) of striped dolphins ( Stenella coeruleoalba ) and common dolphins (Delphinus delphis ) stranded along the Sicilian coastlines of the Mediterranean Sea. The results confirm the exposure of dolphins to toxic metals and metalloids, with the highest Hg levels observed in skin and liver, although a low Metal Pollution Index (MPI) was found in all samples of both dolphin species. From a comparative analysis of trace metals and metalloids according to sex and state of development, the highest levels of Cd and As were found in females vs. males and adults vs. juveniles, except for Pb in both species, and significant differences were observed between the two species, size of specimens, and organs/tissues analyzed. The highest Hg levels were correlated to those of essential metals Se and Zn, expressed as molar ratios, to evaluate the potential synergic effect of these detoxifying elements against Hg toxicity. This study confirms the rule of Stenella coeruleoalba and Delphinus delphis as valid sentinel species of the Mediterranean Sea, to verify the trend of metals pollution in this aquatic environment and, consequently, the health of these marine species.

Background: Surgery such as ovariectomy causes an inflammatory and oxidative stress. This study was designed to evaluate endogenous tocopherol levels in response to surgical oxidative stress induced by abdominal surgery (ovariectomy) in thirty-two juvenile female dogs. The dogs received meloxicam before surgery (0.2 mg/kg SC) and after surgery (0.1 mg/kg OS every 24 h), 0.03 mg/kg of atropine sulfate (IM), and propofol 4 mg/kg intravenously (IV). General anesthesia was maintained with sevoflurane. Physiological, hematological and biochemical parameters, malondialdehyde (MDA) and α-, δ-, γ-tocopherols were evaluated at baseline, 36 and 48 h after surgery., Results: The physiological parameters remained within normal ranges. Blood glucose concentration increased, while the albumin levels decreased after surgery. Rescue analgesia was not required. MDA levels increased above the baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001). The α-, δ-, and γ-tocopherol concentrations decreased from baseline at 36 and 48 h after surgery (P < 0.001)., Conclusions: Surgery in juvenile female dogs revealed oxidative, increased MDA concentrations, reduced tocopherol levels, and had a clinically insignificant influence on homeostasis., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Heavy metals are environmental contaminants and can easily accumulate and biomagnify in various marine species (fishes and mammalians) at the top of the aquatic food chain. Among marine mammalians, the striped dolphin ( Stenella coeruleoalba ) is the most abundant cetacean in the Mediterranean Sea and is considered to be a sentinel species to monitor the environmental marine pollution. In this study, the contents of toxic metals and metalloids (Cd, Pb, Hg, and As), micro-elements (Ni, Cr, Cu, Fe, Co, Mn, Se and Zn) and macro-elements (Na, Ca, K, Mg and P) were evaluated by ICP-MS analysis in several organs/tissues (lung, skin, muscle and liver) of Stenella coeruleoalba . The assessment of marine environmental pollution and dolphins health status was carried out through further analysis of the same specific parameters such as the metal pollution index (MPI) and coefficient of condition (K). Finally, the correlation between toxic metals and metalloids and essential micro-elements, expressed as molar ratios, was analyzed to evaluate the detoxifying ability (effectiveness) of Zn, Se and Cu. Data obtained showed the presence of toxic metals and metalloids analyzed in the Stenella coeruleoalba samples but the MPI values suggested a low environmental contamination of the Mediterranean Sea where dolphins lived. The content of micro- and macro-elements was found to be in a normal range for this species and predictive of dolphins good health status, as confirmed by the coefficient of condition K. However, the correlation between toxic and essential metals, expressed as molar ratios, showed that the following toxic metals cannot be detoxified by the essential metals: 66 Zn/ 201 Hg, 82 Se/ 201 Hg, 63 Cu/ 201 Hg and 66 Zn/ 52 Cr, 82 Se/ 52 Cr, 63 Cu/ 52 Cr. Therefore, this study highlights the key role of dolphin Stenella coeruleoalba to assess marine pollution and the importance of analyzing the complete mineral profile to evaluate the animal health status.

Bivalves can concentrate biological and chemical pollutants, causing foodborne outbreaks whose occurrence is increasing, due to climatic and anthropic factors that are difficult to reverse, hence the need for improved surveillance. This study aimed to evaluate the hygienic qualities of bivalves sampled along the production and distribution chain in Sicily and collect useful data for consumer safety. Bacteriological and molecular analyses were performed on 254 samples of bivalves for the detection of enteropathogenic Vibrio , Arcobacter spp., Aeromonas spp., Salmonella spp., and beta-glucuronidase-positive Escherichia coli . A total of 96 out of 254 samples, collected in the production areas, were processed for algal biotoxins and heavy metals detection. Bacterial and algal contaminations were also assessed for 21 samples of water from aquaculture implants. Vibrio spp., Arcobacter spp., Aeromonas hydrophila , Salmonella spp., and Escherichia coli were detected in 106/254, 79/254, 12/254, 16/254, and 95/254 molluscs, respectively. A total of 10/96 bivalves tested positive for algal biotoxins, and metals were under the legal limit. V. alginolyticus , A. butzleri, and E. coli were detected in 5, 3, and 3 water samples, respectively. Alexandrium minutum , Dinophysis acuminata , Lingulodinium polyedra, and Pseudonitzschia spp. were detected in water samples collected with the biotoxin-containing molluscs. Traces of yessotoxins were detected in molluscs from water samples containing the corresponding producing algae. Despite the strict regulation by the European Commission over shellfish supply chain monitoring, our analyses highlighted the need for efficiency improvement.

In this study, we investigate the role of microwave cooking in reducing mycotoxin contamination in plant-based food matrices, with a focus on veggie burgers (purchased and home-made) and their ingredients (soybean, potatoes, zucchini, carrots). Two different conditions were studied (Max-Min) that were 800 W for 60 s and 800 W for 90 s, respectively. The degradation patterns of aflatoxins (AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, AFG2), fumonisins (FB1, FB2, FB3), trichothecenes (T2, HT2, ZEA), and ochratoxin A (OTA) were studied. The extraction procedures were conducted with the QuEChERS extraction, and the analyses were conducted with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that degradation under microwave cooking varies considerably across different food matrices and cooking conditions. This study provides valuable insights into the degradation of mycotoxins during microwave cooking and underscores the need for more research in this area to ensure food safety.

Background: Meniere's disease (MD) is a cochlear neurodegenerative disease. Hearing loss appears to be triggered by oxidative stress in the ganglion neurons of the inner ear., Objective: Here, we confirm the variation of markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with Meniere and hypothesize that chronic treatment with Coriolus mushroom helps in the response to oxidative stress and acts on α-synuclein and on NF-kB-mediated inflammatory processes Methods: Markers of oxidative stress and inflammation were evaluated in MD patients with or without Coriolus treatment for 3 or 6 months., Results: MD patients had a small increase in Nrf2, HO-1, γ-GC, Hsp70, Trx and sirtuin-1, which were further increased by Coriolus treatment, especially after 6 months. Increased markers of oxidative damage, such as protein carbonyls, HNE, and ultraweak chemiluminescence, associated with a decrease in plasma GSH/GSSG ratio, were also observed in lymphocytes from MD patients. These parameters were restored to values similar to the baseline in patients treated with Coriolus for both 3 and 6 months. Furthermore, treated MD subjects showed decreased expression of α-synuclein, GFAP and Iba-1 proteins and modulation of the NF-kB pathway, which were impaired in MD patients. These changes were greatest in subjects taking supplements for 6 months., Conclusion: Our study suggests MD as a model of cochlear neurodegenerative disease for the identification of potent inducers of the Nrf2-vitagene pathway, able to reduce the deleterious consequences associated with neurodegenerative damage, probably by indirectly acting on a-synuclein expression and on inflammatory processes NF-kB-mediated., (Copyright© Bentham Science Publishers; For any queries, please email at epub@benthamscience.net.)

Introduction: Phenolic compounds in lettuce can increase by the application of positive stress (eustress) such as moderate saline stress. Phenolic compounds possess antioxidant capacity that is a key factor in the detoxification of excess reactive oxygen species. A double-blinded randomized interventional and placebo- controlled study design was carried out to compare the effect of daily dietary eustress lettuce ingestion in hepatic, lipid, bone, glucose, and iron metabolism., Methods: Forty-two healthy volunteers, 19 female and 23 male participants, were divided into two groups. Participants were randomized into a polyphenol-enriched treatment (PET) arm or control arm. Each arm consumed 100 g/day of control or eustress (polyphenols enriched treatment = PET) lettuce for 12 days. Primary study outcomes were serological analysis for assessing hepatic, lipid, bone, iron, and glucose markers at baseline and after 12 days. Secondary outcomes assessed body composition., Results: Salinity stress reduced plant yield but increased caffeic acid (+467%), chlorogenic acid (+320%), quercetin (+538%), and rutin (+1,095%) concentrations. The intake of PET lettuce reduced PTH, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) enzyme levels and increased vitamin D and phosphate levels, while iron and glucose metabolism were unaffected., Discussion: Supplementation with eustress lettuce by increasing polyphenols concentration ameliorates hepatic, lipid, and bone homeostasis. Body composition was not affected., Clinical Trial Registration: https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT06002672, identifier: NCT06002672., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest. The author(s) declared that they were an editorial board member of Frontiers, at the time of submission. This had no impact on the peer review process and the final decision., (Copyright © 2023 Ferrantelli, Vasto, Alongi, Sabatino, Baldassano, Caldarella, Gagliano, Di Rosa, Consentino, Vultaggio and Baldassano.)

Background: The Loggerhead sea turtle ( Caretta caretta ) is a marine reptile belonging to a monophyletic group of chelonians. As these animals are long-lived, they have the ability to accumulate pollutants., Aim: To collect epidemiological data on toxic metals in marine Loggerhead sea turtles., Materials and Methods: Forty Loggerhead sea turtles comprising 25 males and 15 females stranded freshly dead between 2013 and 2018 along the coasts of Sicily, Southern Italy, were examined for arsenic, cadmium, and lead accumulation in muscle and adipose tissues by means of a validated ICP-MS method. A modified K index as a growth condition factor, namely Fulton's K index, was used. Samples were tested in duplicate. A Wilcoxon rank sum test was carried out to evaluate metal contents differences between muscle and adipose tissues and between genders., Results: The Fulton's K index suggested a good body condition of the C. caretta recovered with mean values of 5.34 ± 3.40 ( n  = 40; ±SD). Detectable concentrations of lead were found in 70% of the samples analysed with mean values of 0.65 ± 1.67 mg/kg wet weight and 0.51 ± 1.29 mg/kg wet weight in muscle and adipose tissues, respectively. No significant differences in arsenic, cadmium, and lead were detected between genders. In addition, no significant correlation was found between modified K index and concentrations of arsenic, cadmium, and lead., Clinical Relevance: Findings on muscle and adipose tissues suggest chronic exposure of Caretta caretta to high concentrations of especially lead which might negatively affect health and welfare of these marine turtles although body condition was good.

The aim of the study was to compare the analgesic efficacy of tramadol and lidocaine for local anesthesia during umbilical hernia repair in swine. The study was performed on 66 large white crossbred swine. The swine received a mixture of tiletamine/zolazepam at 5 mg/kg and romifidine at 80 µg/kg, administered intramuscularly. Then, they were divided into three groups ( n = 22) that received different treatments with lidocaine at 4 mg/kg and tramadol at 4 mg/kg. The LL group received lidocaine both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally. The LT group received lidocaine by infiltration of the surgical planes and tramadol intraperitoneally. The TT group received tramadol both by infiltration of the surgical planes and intraperitoneally. In all groups, the infiltration of the surgical planes into the umbilical region involved both the skin and muscle planes. Heart rate, noninvasive arterial blood pressure, and respiratory frequency were recorded during surgery. The response to the surgical stimulus was evaluated using a cumulative pain scale (the cut-off point for rescue analgesia was set to 10). Postoperative pain was assessed using the UNESP-Botucatu pig composite acute pain scale (the cut-off point was set to 4). The trend of physiological variables was adequate for patients under anesthesia. No subject required intraoperative and postoperative rescue analgesia. Tramadol could therefore be used for pain management in livestock.

Canine disc-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (DA-CSM) is a form of caudal CSM, characterized by the compression of the spinal cord and nerve roots due to an intervertebral disc protrusion. It is more frequent in large canine breeds. A variety of surgical techniques has been proposed for DA-CSM. The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of a cervical distraction-stabilization technique using an intervertebral anchored fusion device (C-LOX) combined with a locking compression plate (LCP plate) for the treatment of DA-CSM in dogs, based on clinical and radiographical follow-up data. Thirteen dogs affected by DA-CSM were included in the study. After the surgical procedure, an improvement in neurological status was documented in 9/13 cases. This cervical distraction-stabilization technique seems to be a valuable surgical alternative to treat this canine pathology.

The rising popularity of undercooked or raw seafood containing larvae of the Anisakis parasite has led to issues of public health concern due to allergic manifestations. We conducted an observational study on the use of an innovative Anisakis allergy diagnostic algorithm in a convenience sample of 53 allergic outpatients recruited in Western Sicily, between April 2021 and March 2022. We included individuals with an anamnesis suggestive of IgE sensitization to Anisakis reporting clinical manifestation in the last month due to allergic reactions after eating fresh fish, or in subjects at high exposure risk with sea products while abstaining from fish ingestion, excluding those with documented fish sensitization. Outpatients were tested via Skin Prick Test, IgE-specific dosage and Basophil Activation Test (BAT). Twenty-six outpatients were diagnosed with Anisakis , while 27 with Chronic Urticaria (CU). We found a seven-fold excess risk for Anisakis (p4) positivity in the Anisakis allergic outpatients, as compared to the CU ones. BAT showed the best diagnostic accuracy (92.45%) and specificity (100%), while specific IgE to Ascaris (p1) documented the best sensitivity (92.31%) but a very low specificity (37.04%). In conclusion, our findings may represent a potentially useful contribution to the future development of updated clinical guidelines.

Umbilical hernias in calves occur with relative frequency. Most abdominal surgeries can be performed in cattle using standing sedation and local blocks. Romifidine is widely used in calves, alone or in combination with opioids. Tramadol administered as an intravenous slow injection provided better analgesia than an IV bolus in cows. The aim of the present study was to compare the response to surgical stimulus, and sedative effects of tramadol administered intravenously either as a bolus or a slow injection in romifidinesedated calves. Twenty Frisian calves undergoing umbilical hernia repair received romifidine (0.08 mg/kg IM; time 0) followed by tramadol (1 mg/kg IV) 5 min later either as a bolus ( n = 10, B group) or a slow injection over 10 min ( n = 10, SI group). Surgical area was infiltrated with lidocaine (4 mg/kg). Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic, dyastolic and mean arterial pressure (SAP, DAP, MAP), sedation scores and response to surgical stimulus were recorded for up to 55 min. After the calves recovered a standing position, postoperative pain scores were assessed for up to 50 min. Sedation scores were significantly higher in the SI group than in the B group at 55 min ( p < 0.05). HR, RR, SAP and response to surgical stimulus were significantly higher in the B group than in the SI group ( p < 0.05). No significant differences were recorded in postoperative pain scores between groups ( p > 0.05). Romifidine IM followed by intravenous tramadol, as a bolus or slow injection and local infiltration with lidocaine provided adequate sedation and analgesia in calves undergoing umbilical hernia repair.

In this study, four dead great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo sinensis (Blumenbach, 1978) specimens, collected from the coasts and lakes of Southern Italy, were examined by necropsy for the detection of Contraceacum sp. The adults and larvae found were subjected to morphological analysis and molecular identification by PCR-RFLP. A total of 181 Contracaecum specimens were detected in all of the four great cormorants examined (prevalence = 100%), showing an intensity of infestation between nine and ninety-two. A co-infestation by adult and larval forms of Contracaecum rudolphii was found only in one of the great cormorants examined. Following molecular investigations, 48 specimens of C. rudolphii A and 38 specimens of C. rudolphii B were detected, revealing co-infestation solely for the great cormorant from Leporano Bay (Southern Italy). Our results showed an opposite ratio between C. rudolphii A and C. rudolphii B in Pantelleria and in Salso Lake (Southern Italy) compared to what was reported in the literature, probably due to migratory stopovers and the ecology of the infested fish species, confirming the role of Contracaecum nematodes as ecological tags of their hosts.

Background: Tramadol produces a significant reduction in both sevoflurane and isoflurane minimum alveolar concentrations in dogs under experimental conditions. This study aims to compare the effects of tramadol administered as a constant rate infusion (CRI) with those of tramadol administered as a single intravenous bolus on physiological parameters and isoflurane requirements in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy., Methods: In this study, forty female dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy were enrolled. The bitches were anesthetized with 5 mg/kg of tiletamine/zolazepam combined with 0.05 mg/kg of acepromazine intravenously. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane delivered in 100% oxygen. The group A (n = 20) received tramadol 4 mg/kg in a single intravenous bolus, whereas the group B (n = 20) received tramadol 1.5 mg/kg in an intravenous bolus followed by tramadol 2.6 mg/kg/h as a CRI. The following parameters were recorded: heart rate, respiratory rate, non-invasive blood pressure, body temperature, EtCO2, SpO2 and inspired and expired concentrations of isoflurane. Parameter measurements were performed from pre-preedication (baseline) to skin suturing., Results: The dogs were healthy subjects that demonstrated no abnormalities on laboratory investigations. Significant tachycardia was recorded after administration of tiletamine/zolazepam combined with acepromazine in both groups. Heart rate decreased after intubation but remained significantly higher compared to baseline values in both groups. Systolic blood pressure significantly decreased in both groups but the recorded values were within the physiological range. Mild reduction in body temperature was recorded in both groups. SpO2 and EtCO2 remained within the physiological range. Isoflurane requirement was significantly lower in the group B compared to the group A. Transient twitching was recorded in two dogs belonging to the group A after tramadol administration., Conclusions: Compared to tramadol given as a single intravenous bolus injection during ovariohysterectomy in dogs, tramadol administered as a CRI reduces isoflurane requirements in dogs anesthetized with tiletamine/zolazepam combined with acepromazine. Both tramadol given as a CRI and a single intravenous bolus injection, induce decrease in heart rate, respiratory rate and in body temperature but the values of these parameters remain within physiological range in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist., (Copyright: © 2023 Costa et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.)

The aims of the study included evaluating the effects of levobupivacaine combined with cisatracurium on akinesia and mydriasis when administered by peribulbar injection, and evaluating if the chosen dose of cisatracurium is enough to avoid the use of systemic neuromuscular blockade in cats. The animals were divided into four groups as follows: group L received 1.25 mg kg -1 levobupivacaine administered by peribulbar injection; group LC received the same dose of levobupivacaine combined with 0.01 mg kg -1 of cisatracurium administered by peribulbar injection; group C received 0.01 mg kg -1 of cisatracurium administered by peribulbar injection; group GC received 0.01 mg kg -1 of cisatracurium intravenously. Physiological variables, intraocular pressure, akinesia, and mydriasis were measured before and up to 30 min after peribulbar injection. The onset of akinesia, duration of akinesia, and train of four (TOF) were evaluated. Physiological variables remained in the physiological range in all groups. Effective akinesia and mydriasis were observed in all groups. The (TOF) was 0.9 in all groups. Throughout the study was observed in group LC a shortened onset of akinesia and a prolonging its duration. The peribulbar injection of cisatracurium and levobupivacaine provided effective akinesia and mydriasis, and shortened the onset of akinesia while prolonging its duration.

In this study, the evolution of the safety, nutritional, and volatile profile of a traditional Italian anchovy sauce with protected designation of origin (PDO), called "colatura di alici di Cetara", is investigated after 12, 24, and 48 months of aging in wooden barrels. Some physicochemical parameters, free amino acids, volatile compounds, and histamine contents were evaluated during the aging of the samples. Glutamate, which together with aspartate is responsible for the umami taste, was the predominant free amino acid in the tested fish sauce, with a significant increase during the 48 months of maturation. The total amino acid content of the anchovy sauce increased from 24 to 48 months of aging. The histamine content decreased significantly from 12 to 48 months of ripening. This point is particularly interesting for the sauce safety and confirms the importance of the maturation time of at least 9 months reported in the disciplinary of production. A total of 44 volatile compounds were found in the anchovy sauce samples, of which the largest class was acids, mainly isovaleric acid. The results show that prolonged maturation improves the safety, nutritional, and volatile components of the seasoning "colatura di alici".

The purpose of the present study was to test whether the addition of cisatracurium in combination with propofol and sevoflurane would result in a change in doses of used anesthetic drugs. Ten dogs (Group A) undergoing elective unilateral mastectomy surgery were included in the study. To induce and maintain anesthesia, subjects received propofol and sevoflurane at varying doses; analgesia was performed with remifentanil. After three months, the same subjects (Group B) underwent contralateral mastectomy and received the same anesthetic protocol with the addition of cisatracurium at a dosage of 0.2 mg/kg−1. The following parameters were monitored during anesthesia: heart rate, systolic blood pressure, end-tidal CO2, oxygen saturation, halogenate requirement, and rectal temperature at baseline (T0), induction (T1), 5 (T5), 10 (T10), 15 (T15), 20 (T20), 25 (T25), 30 (T30), and 35 (T35) time points. In Group A, halogenate requirement was reduced at all the time points other than T1 (p < 0.001); in Group B, the percentage of halogenate requirement was already reduced at T1 and remained constant during the experimental period, showing no significant intragroup differences. The dose requirements of sevoflurane and propofol varied significantly between the two groups, with significantly lower dosages in the Group B (the cisatracurium-treated group). Moreover, patients treated with cisatracurium showed a stable anesthetic plan. The nondepolarizing-muscle-relaxant cisatracurium besylate could be considered a useful adjunct to anesthetic protocols.

We examined the presence of As, Cr, Cd, and Pb in 42 samples of farmed East Asian bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus rugulosus) from Vietnam and Thailand by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). An estimation of the dietary intake and exposure to the toxic elements analysed was also carried out. The results showed very high As levels, with mean values of 0.094 ± 0.085 mg/Kg w.w. and a maximum of 0.22 mg/Kg. No significant differences were found for As contents between areas of production (p > 0.05). No detectable Cd contents were found in all the samples examined. The Pb concentrations of the East Asian bullfrog legs samples were below the European Commission’s permitted levels. The Cr and Pb contents of the East Asian bullfrog produced in Vietnam were significantly higher than that produced in Thailand (p < 0.05). The target hazard quotient (THQ) ratio for Cr was not exceeded for all the samples analysed. In contrast, the benchmark dose lower confidence limit (BMDL) and THQ ratios for As were exceeded, indicating carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks for those who consume this type of food. The results of this work confirm the role of As-contaminated water absorption as an important source of arsenic for these adult organisms.

To date, drugs released into the aquatic environment are a real problem, and among antibiotics, sulfamethoxazole is the one most widely found in wastewater; thus, the evaluation of its toxicity on marine organisms is very important. This study, for the first time, investigates the in vitro effects of 4 concentrations of sulfamethoxazole (0.05 mg/L, 0.5 mg/L, 5 mg/L, 50 mg/L) on the fertilization and development of the sea urchin Arbacia lixula . The gametes were exposed to drugs in three different stages: simultaneously with, prior to, and post-fertilization. The results show a significant reduction in the percentage of fertilized oocytes at the highest drug concentrations. Moreover, an increase in anomalies and delays in embryo development following the treatment with the drug was demonstrated. Therefore, the data suggest that this antibiotic can alter the development of marine organisms, making it urgent to act to reduce their release and to determine the concentration range with the greatest impact.

Micronutrients are required in many reactions involved in physical activity and exercise. Most physically active people do not meet the body's needs in terms of micronutrients through diet. The novelty of the present manuscript is the use of an innovative dietary approach to supply micronutrients to physically active people through biofortified food. Therefore, the key point of this study was to verify whether supplementation with biofortified vegetables-and specifically molybdenum (Mo)-enriched lettuce-in healthy volunteers affects essential regulators of body homeostasis and, specifically, hematological parameters, iron and lipid metabolism, and hepatic function. Twenty-four healthy volunteers were allocated in a double-blinded manner to either a control group that consumed lettuce, or the intervention group, which consumed Mo-enriched lettuce, for 12 days. Blood samples were collected at baseline (T0) and after 12 days (T1). We found that supplementation with Mo-enriched lettuce did not affect hematological parameters, liver function, or lipid metabolism, but significantly improved iron homeostasis by increasing non-binding hemoglobin iron by about 37% and transferrin saturation by about 42%, while proteins of iron metabolism (e.g., transferrin, ferritin, ceruloplasmin) were not affected. The serum molybdenum concentration increased by about 42%. In conclusion, this study shows that consumption of Mo-biofortified lettuce ameliorates iron homeostasis in healthy subjects, and suggests that it could be used as a new nutritional supplementation strategy to avoid iron deficiency in physically active people.

Steaming process is the most popular method for cooking mussels worldwide. The effect of this cooking process on some toxic (Cd, Ni, Pb), essential (Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn) elements, minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg), total lipids, and fatty acid profiles in the Mediterranean mussels ( Mytilus galloprovincialis ) harvested from the Black Sea was studied. Different approaches to assess the benefits and risks ( n -6/ n -3, PUFA/SFA, AI, TI, h/H, EDI, THQ, HI, TR, and HQ EFA ) were employed. In general, steaming process significantly modified some essential elements and minerals concentrations as well as the fatty acid profiles. Compared to the raw samples, this culinary practice resulted in an increased concentration of Na, Mg, Zn, and saturated fatty acids and a decrease of polyunsaturated fatty acids. Significant changes in the lipid quality indices (PUFA/SFA, AI, TI, and h/H) from the raw samples were observed. No effect on the DHA content was found. However, the significant increase in the absolute content of EPA + DHA indicates that steaming does not compromise the nutritional quality of mussels. Target hazard quotients (THQs) and hazard index (HI) from elemental intake were below 1, indicating that the steamed M. galloprovincialis pose no hazard for the consumers. The target risk (TR) values for Pb, Cr, and Ni were calculated, evaluated, and showed acceptable or negligible levels. In addition, the benefit-risk ratio indicated that the steamed M .  galloprovincialis are safe for human consumption., Competing Interests: The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare that are relevant to the content of this article., (© 2022 The Authors. Food Science & Nutrition published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Calonectris diomedea is a Procellariforms seabird having a very representative colony in Linosa Island (Southern Italy). The adult forms of C. diomedea produce a pasty oil from their proventriculus to feed their chicks during the rearing period. In this work, we examined the fatty acids composition of the stomach oil of C. diomedea from Linosa Island by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection (GC-FID). The samples were collected at 20 and 70 days after hatching. Twenty different fatty acids (FAs) were identified. Saturated fatty acids (SFA) were the most abundant in percentage (41.6%) at day 20 followed by polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA, 38.7%) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA, 19.7%). MUFAs were the most abundant in samples collected at day 70 (53.8%), followed by SFAs (36.6%) and PUFAs (9.8%). Oleic acid (C18:1ω9) in the samples on day 70 was 4 times higher than that in the samples on day 20. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) verified a clear separation of the stomach oil samples in two groups, according to the day of sampling. The results obtained confirm the role of FAs analysis of stomach oil to understand the ecology and breeding behaviour of C. diomedea , highlighting a resemblance with signatures recorded in marine organisms of Linosa Island.

Anisakiasis is a fish-borne zoonotic disease caused by the ingestion of raw/undercooked fishes or cephalopods parasitized by members of the genus Anisakis . Freezing ensures the inactivation of viable Anisakis larvae; however, since it affects the organoleptic properties of food, essential oils and their compounds were proposed as an alternative. In this study, fresh anchovy fillets were experimentally parasitized with L3 Anisakis larvae to test the anisakicidal efficacy of R (+) limonene (LMN) in marinated fishery products. The anisakicidal effectiveness and organoleptic influence of several LMN concentrations (0.5%, 1%, and 5%) were tested during the marinating process (MS) and storage in sunflower seed oil (SO) of marinated anchovy fillets. Double treatment (DT) with 1% LMN was also performed both during marination and subsequent storage in oil. MS treatment resulted only in a reduction in larvae viability after 48 h, while a complete inactivation was observed in SO after 8, 10, and 20 days of treatment with 5%, 1%, and 0.5% LMN, respectively. DT was the most effective with complete larval inactivation after 7 days. Only 5% LMN influenced the sensory characteristics of the fillets, resulting, however, in a pleasant lemon-like odor and taste. Considering the results obtained, LMN might be a suitable natural alternative to manage Anisakis risk in the fishery industry.

To date, drug pollution in aquatic systems is an urgent issue, and Danio rerio is a model organism to study the toxicological effects of environmental pollutants. The scientific literature has analyzed the effect of human drug pollution on the biochemical responses in the tissues of D. rerio adults. However, the information is still scarce and conflicting, making it difficult to understand its real impact. The scientific studies are not consistent with each other and, until now, no one has grouped their results to create a baseline of knowledge of the possible impacts. In this review, the analysis of literature data highlights that the effects of drugs on adult zebrafishes depend on various factors, such as the tissue analyzed, the drug concentration and the sex of the individuals. Furthermore, the most influenced biochemical responses concern enzymes (e.g., antioxidants and hydrolase enzymes) and total protein and hormonal levels. Pinpointing the situation to date would improve the understanding of the chronic effects of human drug pollution, helping both to reduce it in the aquatic systems and then to draw up regulations to control this type of pollution.

The beneficial effects of physical activity on body image perception and bone are debated among artistic gymnasts. Gymnasts seem to be at greater risk of developing body dissatisfaction, eating disorders and osteoporosis due to inadequate nutrition and attention to the appearance of the body. The objective of this work was to investigate the association between the artistic gymnast and a more favorable body image compared to their sedentary peers and if a preworkout high-carbohydrate meal (HCM; 300 kcal, 88% carbohydrates, 9% protein, 3% fat) or high-protein meal (HPM; 300 kcal, 55% carbohydrates, 31% protein, 13% fat) is able to attenuate bone resorption in young rhythmic gymnasts. Twenty-eight preadolescent female gymnasts were examined. Self-esteem tests were used to analyze body image perception. Preworkout eating habits were examined by short food frequency questions (FFQ) validated for children. The biomarker of the bone resorption C-terminal telopeptide region of collagen type 1 (CTX) was measured in the urine (fasting, postmeal and postworkout). Gymnasts reported higher satisfaction with their body appearance compared to sedentary peers. Of the gymnasts, 30% did not have a preworkout meal regularly, and the timing of the consumption was variable. Bone resorption was decreased by the HCM, consumed 90 min before the training, with respect to the HPM. The study suggests that playing artistic gymnastics is associated with a positive body self-perception in a child. The variability in preworkout meal frequency and timing need attention to prevent inadequate eating habits in light of the ability of the HCM to reduce acute bone resorption.

We developed, validated, and confirmed with proficiency tests a fast ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD) method to determine histamine in fish and fishery products. The proposed method consists of two successive solid-liquid extractions: one with a dilute solution of perchloric acid (6%) and the second only with water. The instrumental analysis with UHPLC provides a very fast run time (only 6 min) with a retention time of approximately 4 min, a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 7.2 mg kg -1 , a limit of detection (LOD) of 2.2 mg kg -1 , a recovery around 100%, a relative standard deviation (RSD%) between 0.5 and 1.4, and an r 2 of calibration curve equal to 0.9995. The method detected optimal values of the validation parameters and required a limited number of reagents in comparison to other methods reported in the literature. Furthermore, the method could detect histamine in a very short time compared with other methods. This method, in addition to being validated, precise, specific, and accurate, avoids wasting time, money, and resources, and limits the use of organic solvents.

Heavy metals and PAHs were measured in animal foodstuffs from Augusta-Melilli-Priolo area in order to evaluate the potential human health risk associated to their consumption. All heavy metals were detected in seafood products while most of them were Hg related to seafood products intake exceeded the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) recommended by the European Food Safety Authority. The THQ Hg was >1 for baby, children and teenagers, indicating a non-carcinogenic risk for these age categories by seafood ingestion. The CR As overcame 1 * 10 -5 for almost age categories (except "baby") and for elderly, by seafood and beef ingestions respectively. Moreover, the MOE for PAHs showed a certain cancer risk for "baby" related to cow milk ingestion., (Copyright © 2020 Di Bella, Traina, Giosuè, Carpintieri, Lo Dico, Bellante, Del Core, Falco, Gherardi, Uccello and Ferrantelli.)

Background and Aims: Fish by-products are generally used to produce fishmeal or fertilizers, with fish oil as a by-product. Despite their importance, fish wastes are still poorly explored and characterized and more studies are needed to reveal their potentiality. The goal of the present study was to qualitatively characterize and investigate the antimicrobial effects of the fish oil extracted from Salmo salar waste samples and to evaluate the potential use of these compounds for treating pathogen infections., Methods: Salmo salar waste samples were divided in two groups: heads and soft tissues. Fatty acids composition, and in particular the content in saturated (SAFAs), mono-unsaturated (MUFAs) and Polyunsaturated (PUFAs) fatty acids, was characterized through GC/MS Thermo Focus GC-DSQ II equipped with a ZB-5 fused silica capillary tubes column. The antimicrobial activity of the salmon waste oils was evaluated through the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration assay and the antibiotics contamination was determined by Liquid Chromatography with tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) analysis. All experiments were done at least in triplicate., Results: GC/MS analysis has shown the specific fatty acid composition of the salmon waste oils and their enrichment in MUFAs and PUFAs, with special reference to omega-3, -6, -7, -9 fatty acids. Furthermore, our study has highlighted the antimicrobial activity of the fish waste oil samples against two Gram+ and Gram- bacterial strains., Conclusions: These data confirm that the fish waste is still quantitatively and qualitatively an important source of available biological properties that could be extracted and utilized representing an important strategy to counteract infective diseases in the context of the circular economy., Competing Interests: The authors declare there are no competing interests., (©2020 Inguglia et al.)

Abstract: In total, 4,615 fresh and processed fish samples collected from 2010 to 2015 were analyzed for histamine by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection. Histamine levels were detected in 352 (7.6%) samples, with a maximum of 4,110 mg kg-1 and mean values of 908.9 ± 1,226.79 and 344.01 ± 451.18 mg kg-1 for fresh and processed fish samples, respectively. No histamine levels were found in canned tuna and smoked fish samples in contrast to most of the data reported in the literature. A low percentage (2.79%) of noncompliant samples was found. The highest mean values were found during 2011 and 2015 for fresh and processed fish samples, respectively, showing a significant (P < 0.05) difference between the sampling years. The histamine contents found in fresh fish samples were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of processed samples. Most of the positive samples came from street vendors, suggesting the need to improve inspection measures in these commercial categories to ensure fish product safety., (Copyright ©, International Association for Food Protection.)

Parasites belonging to the Anisakis genera are organisms of interest for human health because they are responsible for the Anisakiasis zoonosis, caused by the ingestion of raw or undercooked fish. Furthermore, several authors have reported this parasite to be a relevant inducer of acute or chronic allergic diseases. In this work, a rapid commercial system based on Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) was optimised and validated for the sensitive and rapid detection of Anisakis spp. DNA in processed fish products. The specificity and sensitivity of the LAMP assay for processed fish samples experimentally infected with Anisakis spp. larvae and DNA were determined. The LAMP system proposed in this study was able to give positive amplification for all the processed fish samples artificially contaminated with Anisakis spp., giving sensitivity values equal to 100%. Specificity tests provided no amplification for the Contracaecum , Pseudoterranova , or Hysterothylacium genera and uninfected samples. The limit of detection (LOD) of the LAMP assay proposed was 10 2 times lower than the real-time PCR method compared. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report regarding the application of the LAMP assay for the detection of Anisakis spp. in processed fish products. The results obtained indicate that the LAMP assay validated in this work could be a reliable, easy-to-use, and convenient tool for the rapid detection of Anisakis DNA in fish product inspection.

High-fat diet (HFD) induces inflammation and microbial dysbiosis, which are components of the metabolic syndrome. Nutritional strategies can be a valid tool to prevent metabolic and inflammatory diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate if the chronic intake of pistachio prevents obesity-associated inflammation and dysbiosis in HFD-fed mice. Three groups of male mice (four weeks old; n = 8 per group) were fed for 16 weeks with a standard diet (STD), HFD, or HFD supplemented with pistachios (HFD-P; 180 g/kg of HFD). Serum, hepatic and adipose tissue inflammation markers were analyzed in HFD-P animals and compared to HFD and STD groups. Measures of inflammation, obesity, and intestinal integrity were assessed. Fecal samples were collected for gut microbiota analysis. Serum TNF-α and IL-1β levels were significantly reduced in HFD-P compared to HFD. Number and area of adipocytes, crown-like structure density, IL-1β, TNF-α, F4-80, and CCL-2 mRNA expression levels were significantly reduced in HFD-P subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissues, compared to HFD. A significant reduction in the number of inflammatory foci and IL-1β and CCL-2 gene expression was observed in the liver of HFD-P mice compared with HFD. Firmicutes / Bacteroidetes ratio was reduced in HFD-P mice in comparison to the HFD group. A pistachio diet significantly increased abundance of healthy bacteria genera such as Parabacteroides , Dorea , Allobaculum , Turicibacter , Lactobacillus , and Anaeroplasma , and greatly reduced bacteria associated with inflammation, such as Oscillospira , Desulfovibrio , Coprobacillus , and Bilophila . The intestinal conductance was lower in HFD-P mice than in the HFD mice, suggesting an improvement in the gut barrier function. The results of the present study showed that regular pistachio consumption improved inflammation in obese mice. The positive effects could be related to positive modulation of the microbiota composition.

The fatty acid (FA) profile of wild Theba pisana , Cornu aspersum , and Eobania vermiculata land snail samples, collected in Sicily (Southern Italy), before and after heat treatment at +100 °C were examined by gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). The results show a higher content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in all of the examined raw snails samples, representing up to 48.10% of the total fatty acids contents, followed by monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). The thermal processing of the snail samples examined determined an overall reduction of PUFA levels (8.13%, 7.75%, and 4.62% for T. pisana , C. aspersum and E. vermiculata samples, respectively) and a species-specific variation of saturated fatty acid (SFA) contents. Oleic acid remained the most abundant FA of all of the snails species examined, accounting for up to 29.95% of the total FA content. A relevant decrease of ɷ3/ɷ6 ratio was found only for T. pisana samples. The principal component analysis (PCA) showed a separation of the snail samples in terms of species and heat treatment. The results of this work suggest land snails as a valuable source of MUFA and PUFA contents and boiling as appropriate treatment, according to the maintenance of healthy properties., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest. The funders had no role in the design of the study; in the collection, analyses, or interpretation of data; in the writing of the manuscript; or in the decision to publish the results.

In highly polluted water, fish can accumulate mercury up to a concentration of 10 mgKg -1 . This has occurred on the eastern coasts of Sicily (Southern Italy), probably due to the intense industrial activity of this area. However, little is known about Hg accumulation in fish of the western Sicilian coasts. In this work, we examined the Hg accumulation of 108 fish samples belonging to 14 species collected from western Sicilian coasts using a direct mercury analyzer. The samples showed a mean mercury concentration of 0.165 ± 0.22 mg kg -1 with a maximum in Lepidopus caudatus (1.72 mgKg -1 ), exceeding the limits provided by EC Reg. 1881/2006. The lowest Hg levels were found in Sparus aurata samples (0.001 mgKg -1 ). A significant difference was found between the fish species examined ( p < 0.05). The comparison between benthic and pelagic species did not show statistical differences ( p < 0.05). Fish food constitutes the main route of Hg uptake for humans. Only four of the 130 samples examined reached a mercury concentration over the European limits. The comparative analysis of Hg pollution for benthic and pelagic species did not confirm a different trend in metal contamination.

Background: Melanosis of lymph nodes in black pigs has generally been related to regression of congenital melanoma and, occasionally, to ingestion of acorns. The aim of this manuscript is to confirm the hypothesis of a possible acquired acorn-related pseudomelanosis in the Nero Calabrese pig, a swine breed belonging to the group of Italian native breeds and whose coverage area corresponds to the region of Calabria, southern Italy. This pig is characterized by slow-growing subjects, producing, however, high quality meat suitable for the production of sausages and fine hams. The study was carried out on 142 normally slaughtered pigs. All organs were examined. Lymph nodes and intestine (jejunum) were sampled. Histochemistry was performed on deparaffinized histological sections to identify the cell types involved and to characterize the pigment stored. To further confirm the pigmentation disorder, immunohistochemistry was carried out. Total phenolic substances were identified in acorns through the use of a biochemical reaction., Results: Lymph node pigmentation appears directly related to acorn ingestion, with a higher incidence in the group which was 70% natural fed (acorn of Quercus virgiliana). Moreover, findings obtained revealed how different amounts of phenolic substrates present in Q. virgiliana and Q. ilex acorns can influence the incidence of such exogenous pigmentation., Conclusion: The findings obtained in this study confirm the acquired nature of the melanin-like pigmentation detected in lymph nodes from acorn-fed swine. Acquired pigmentation must be differentiated from true melanosis as well as from melanosis related to tumor regression of congenital melanoma. This thesaurismosis can be proposed as a marker of wellbeing and quality, confirming that the pigs have been bred and fed in natural conditions.

We examined a total of 369 bovine liver and muscle samples for the detection of oxytetracycline (OTC), tetracycline (TC), chlortetracycline (CTC), and doxycycline (DOX) residues by implementation and validation of a LC-MS/MS method. The method showed good recovery values between 86% and 92% at three levels of concentrations. The linearity tests revealed r² > 0.996 for all the tetracyclines examined. Furthermore, the Youden test revealed that the method was robust. Only 14.4% of the samples showed OTC and TC residues in a concentration range of 10.4⁻40.2 µg kg -1 . No CTC and DOX residues were found in all the samples analyzed. Liver samples showed the highest average values (31.5 ± 20.6 and 21.8 ± 18.9 for OTC and TC, respectively). The results showed a low incidence of TCs in all the samples examined, in comparison with other studies reported in the literature. A significant decrease in TC residues frequency was found from 2013 ( p < 0.05). This work reports for the first time epidemiological data on the presence of TC residues in liver and muscle samples of cattle farmed in Sicily (Southern Italy). The very low incidence of TC residues indicates a continuous improvement in farming techniques in Southern Italy, which is essential to ensure consumers' protection.

Pistachios contain beneficial substances such as unsaturated fatty acids, phytosterols, and polyphenols. In the present study, we investigated if pistachio consumption is able to prevent or to revert hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, and adipose tissue morphological alterations caused by high fat diet (HFD) in the mouse. Moreover, the impact of pistachio intake on the mRNA expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ ( PPAR-γ ), fatty acid transport proteins ( FAT-P ), fatty acid synthase ( FAS ), stearoyl-CoA desaturase ( SCD1 ), and sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor-1c ( SREBP-1c ) in liver and adipose tissue was also analyzed. No change in body weight, food intake, and hyperglycemia was observed between mice consuming pistachios (HFD-P) and HFD mice. Pistachio intake was able to prevent but not to reverse HFD-induced hypertriglyceridemia. Cholesterol plasma levels, steatosis grading, body fat mass, and adipocyte size were significantly lower in HFD-P group compared to HFD in both prevention and reversal protocol. Pistachio-diet was able to prevent HFD-induced overexpression of PPAR-γ , FAS , and SCD1 in the liver and SREBP-1c, PPAR-γ , and FAT-P in adipose tissue. Similarly, HFD-P significantly ameliorated the expression levels of FAT-P and SCD1 in the liver and SREBP-1c, FAS , and SCD1 in adipose tissue of obese mice. The present study shows that pistachio consumption is able to prevent and to ameliorate obesity-related dysfunctions by positively modulating the expression of genes linked to lipid metabolism.

Anisakis simplex spp. sensitization rates have increased worldwide, with a significant impact on health-care systems. To date, no clear-cut diagnostic criteria and laboratory algorithm have been established, so anisakiasis still represents an under-reported health problem whose clinical manifestations, when present, mimic the much more common allergic and digestive disorders. Aim of the study was to systematically review the available literature on the prevalence of sensitization against Anisakis in the general population and in specific population groups, taking into account the impact of the different available diagnostic techniques on the epidemiological data. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement, relevant papers reporting Anisakis sensitization epidemiological data were found covering a period ranging from 1996 to February 2017. Overall, 41 studies comprising 31,701 participants from eleven countries were included in the qualitative synthesis. General asymptomatic population resulted sensitized to Anisakis in 0.4 to 27.4% of cases detected by means of indirect ELISA or ImmunoCAP specific IgE detection, and between 6.6% and 19.6% of the samples by Skin prick test (SPT). Occupationally exposed workers (fishermen, fishmongers and workers of fish-processing industries) documented specific IgE between 11.7% and 50% of cases, whereas SPT positivity ranged between 8% and 46.4%. Symptomatic allergic patients to any kind of allergen were found to be positive to Anisakis specific IgE detection between 0.0% (in children with mastocytosis) to 81.3% (among adults with shellfish allergy). Results highlighted that hypersensitivity prevalence estimates varied widely according to geographical area, characteristics of the population studied, diagnostic criteria and laboratory assays. Further studies are needed to overcome the documented misdiagnosis by improving the diagnostic approach and, consequently, providing more affordable estimates in order to address public health interventions on populations at high risk of exposure to Anisakis and to tailor health services related to specific groups., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.

Combining different preservative treatments for improving quality and safety of fishery products increasingly receives global research attention. Consistent with this pursuit, the current research was undertaken to determine the effects of different ozonized slurry-ice treatments and superchilling (-1°C) storage on microbial spoilage of European anchovy ( Eugraulis encrasicolus ) and sardine ( Sardina pilchardus ), which are two commercially important pelagic fish species. After the catch (within <5 hr) and at defined scheduled storage times, ozone has been discharged once on sardine (herein referred to as "One-T") and repeatedly/sequentially on European anchovy (herein referred to as "Seq-T"). Microbiological analyses enumerated total viable count (TVC), Bacillus spp., Enterobacteriaceae , Lactobacillus spp., Moraxella spp., Shewanella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas spp. Independent of potential antimicrobial effects of ozone during superchilling storage, no Listeria spp., Shewanella spp., Moraxella spp., and Bacillus spp. were found in all processed samples. While Enterobacteriaceae and Lactobacillus spp. were detected at below 1 log cfu/g, both TVC and Pseudomonas spp. proliferated at different rates throughout superchilling storage. The repeated ozone-treated ("Seq-T") showed lower TVC and Pseudomonas spp. values compared with one-time treated ("One-T") slurry-iced and control samples. Thus, combined slurry-ice and superchilling storage at Seq-T produced improved antimicrobial activity over One-T application. Largely, ozonized slurry-ice outcomes/results appear promising thanks to superchilling storage.

The aim of our present work was the development of a rapid high-performance liquid chromatography method with electrospray ionization and tandem mass spectrometry detection (LC-ESI-MS/MS) for the determination of several corticosteroids in cosmetic products. Corticosteroids are suspected to be illegally added in cosmetic preparations in order to enhance the curative effect against some skin diseases. Sample preparation step consists in a single extraction with acetonitrile followed by centrifugation and filtration. The compounds were separated by reversed-phase chromatography with water and acetonitrile (both with 0.1% formic acid) gradient elution and detected by ESI-MS positive and negative ionization mode. The method was validated at the validation level of 0.1 mg kg -1 . Linearity was studied in the 5-250  μ g L -1 range and linear coefficients ( r 2 ) were all over 0.99. The accuracy and precision of the method were satisfactory. The LOD ranged from 0.085 to 0.109 mg kg -1 and the LOQ from 0.102 to 0.121 mg kg -1 . Mean recoveries for all the analytes were within the range 91.9-99.2%. The developed method is sensitive and useful for detection, quantification, and confirmation of these corticosteroids in cosmetic preparations and can be applied in the analysis of the suspected samples under investigation., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests.

A number of ninety-six hair samples from Sicilian fishermen were examined for total mercury detection by an Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. The mercury levels obtained were compared with mercury levels of 96 hair samples from a control group, in order to assess potential exposure to heavy metals of Sicilian fishermen due to fish consumption and closeness to industrial activities. Furthermore, the mercury levels obtained from hair samples were sorted by sampling area in order to verify the possible risks linked to the different locations. The overall mean concentration in the hair of the population of fishermen was 6.45 ± 7.03 μg g(-1), with a highest value in a fisherman of Sciacca (16.48 μg g(-1)). Hair mercury concentration in fishermen group was significantly higher than in control group (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in hair total mercury concentrations between sampling areas (p > 0.05). The results of this study indicate a greater risk of exposure to mercury in Sicilian fishermen, in comparison to the control population, due to the high consumption of fish and the close relationship with sources of exposure (ports, dumps, etc.).

The effect of transport on serum amyloid A (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp), Fibrinogen and white blood cells (WBC) was evaluated in 10 ewes and 10 beef cattle. All animals were transported by road for 6 h over a distance of about 490 km with an average speed of 80 km/h. Blood samples, collected via jugular venepuncture, were obtained before and after transport as well as after 12, 24 and 48 h rest time. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance showed a statistically significant effect of sampling time on SAA, Hp, and WBC in ewes and beef cattle. Based on these results, Hp and SAA levels, together with WBC, may be useful indicators of animal health and welfare and in predicting the risk assessment in meat inspection., Competing Interests: the authors declare no potential conflict of interests.

In this study 160 samples of snails belonging to the species Helix aspersa maxima and Helix aspersa muller were examined for chemical and microbiological analysis. Samples came from Greece and Poland. Results showed mean concentration of cadmium (0.35±0.036 mg/kg) and lead (0.05±0.013 mg/kg) much higher than the limit of detection. Mercury levels in both species were not detected. Microbiological analysis revealed the absence of Salmonella spp. and Clostridium spp. in both examined species. E. coli and K. oxytoca were observed in Helix aspersa maxima and Helix aspersa muller . Furthermore, one case of fungi positivity in samples of Helix aspersa muller was found. The reported investigations highlight the need to create and adopt a reference legislation to protect the health of consumers.

The effect of acute handling stress on haematological profile, blood glucose and lactate (secondary stress markers) in cultured sea bream Sparus aurata was evaluated. Sixty six Sparus aurata were used and equally divided into two groups (A and B). Group A was not subjected to stress, Group B was subjected to acute handling stress. From each fish, biometric data and blood samples were collected to evaluate haematological profile, blood glucose and lactate. Unpaired t-test Student was applied to evaluate possible differences in parameters between the two groups. Red blood cells, haematocrit, haemoglobin, white blood cells (WBC), glucose and lactate showed an increase (P<0.05) in Group B compared with Group A, while mean corpuscular volume decreased (P<0.05) in Group B. The results highlight the role of studied parameters in monitoring the stressful conditions of aquaculture production which affect animal welfare and fish products quality., Competing Interests: the authors declare no potential conflict of interests.