Search

Even though plant proteins are more plentiful and affordable than animal proteins in comparison, direct usage of plant-based proteins (PBPs) is still limited because PBPs are fed to animals as feed to produce animal-based proteins. Thus, this work has comprehensively reviewed the effects of various factors such as pH, temperature, pressure, and ionic strength on PBP properties, as well as describes the protein interactions, and extraction methods to know the optimal conditions for preparing PBP-based products with high functional properties and health benefits. According to the cited studies in the current work, the environmental factors, particularly pH and ionic strength significantly affected on physicochemical and functional properties of PBPs, especially solubility was 76.0% to 83.9% at pH = 2, while at pH = 5.0 reduced from 5.3% to 9.6%, emulsifying ability was the lowest at pH = 5.8 and the highest at pH 8.0, and foaming capacity was lowest at pH 5.0 and the highest at pH = 7.0. Electrostatic interactions are the main way for protein interactions, which can be used to create protein/polysaccharide complexes for food industrial purposes. The extraction yield of proteins can be reached up to 86–95% with high functional properties using sustainable and efficient routes, including enzymatic, ultrasound-, microwave-, pulsed electric field-, and high-pressure-assisted extraction. Nondairy alternative products, especially yogurt, 3D food printing and meat analogs, synthesis of nanoparticles, and bioplastics and packaging films are the best available PBPs-based products. Moreover, PBPs particularly those that contain pigments and their products showed good bioactivities, especially antioxidants, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air samples were collected at the Lianhu (urban) and Yanta (semi-urban) regions between January 2020 and December 2023 to determine the concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Xi’an, which is an important tourist city in China. The concentration of PAHs was ascertained using liquid chromatography. The concentration of Σ16PAHs in Xi’an was 0.13–105.02 ng/m3, while the concentration of Σ16PAHs for the sampling regions at Lianhu and Yanta were 0.13–105.02 ng/m3 and 0.34–82.64 ng/m3, respectively. PAHs with 4–5 rings were the predominant PAHs pollutants in Xi’an, mainly from coal combustion and automobile exhaust. Risks through inhalation to three groups, adult males, adult females, and children, were estimated. The incremental lifetime cancer risk (ILCR) value for local adults and children were less than 10−6, considered to be at a safe level. However, the ILCR is relatively close to the minimum risk threshold (10−6), and it still needs to be highly valued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid urbanization has led to unplanned settlements near railway lines, exposing residents to continuous noise pollution with potential adverse effects on health. This study focuses on the environmental monitoring and assessment of railway noise pollution in urban areas and its impact on human health and daily activities. Noise levels were quantified across different residential zones using precise sound level meters, and a detailed human perception survey was conducted to assess the relationship between noise exposure, annoyance, and health disturbances. By employing structural equation modelling (SEM), the study integrates environmental monitoring data with epidemiological and health data to assess the risk of noise pollution to individuals residing near railway lines. The results indicate that railway noise frequently exceeds regulatory limits, with passenger trains contributing more significantly to pollution than freight trains. The findings also reveal that noise exposure is a significant predictor of annoyance and health effects, with proximity to the railway line being a critical factor. The study emphasizes the need for improved noise monitoring systems and risk assessment strategies in transportation planning to mitigate health risks. These insights contribute to the development of sustainable noise management practices and the design of more efficient monitoring systems, enhancing the understanding of pollution risks at both individual and population levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise pollution has become an important type of environmental pollution, especially in populated areas, due to changes in transportation preferences and industry development. The World Health Organization reports that noise, along with air and water pollution, poses one of the most dangerous pollution threats in big cities. In this study, noise pollution measurements were carried in two different regions of a major city, focusing on sensitive points such as hospitals and schools. Surveys were administered to local residents in these areas to assess levels of annoyance due to traffic noise and awareness of noise pollution. The results show that the measured noise levels exceed the 55 dB(A) limit set by the Turkish Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, as well as WHO noise guideline values. According to the survey findings, it was determined that a majority of respondents in both regions demonstrated awareness of noise pollution. The study further revealed that while 19% of respondents reported high levels of annoyance due to traffic noise, they were more disturbed by industrial machinery and construction activities. Concerning the health effects of noise pollution, a greater number of participants in both regions reported experiencing headaches. Based on these findings, the study identifies sources of noise pollution beyond traffic noise that contribute to discomfort in sensitive areas, highlights the significant health impacts of noise pollution on individuals, and proposes potential solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution is the second leading cause of death from non-communicable diseases. In Guanajuato, Mexico, the brick industry is the main economic source of polluting emissions, with the greatest health impacts. This sector has initiated government regulatory changes, but there is currently no monitoring of its impact on health. As a first pilot phase, this study's objective was to measure the main air pollutants in a rural community in Guanajuato, Mexico, using a low-cost ATMOTUBE® monitor and to describe the area and population group at the greatest risk of exposure. An analytical and longitudinal design from September 2023 to February 2024, with the ATMOTUBE® measurement parameters VOC, PM1, PM2.5, PM10, temperature, humidity, and pressure, was used. During the six months of measurement, the results were as follows: a VOC of 4.15 ± 11.79 ppm, an Air Quality Score (AQS) of 65.17 ± 30.11, and a PM1 value of 4.90 ± 18.43 μg/m3. January–February 2024 was the period with the highest concentration of pollutants, with a maximum PM2.5 concentration of 664 ± 12.5 μg/m3, a maximum PM10 concentration of 650 ± 14.8 μg/m3, and a low humidity value (34.1 ± 5.2%). These values were found near two schools. The first inventory of the main air pollutants in this rural community is presented, with children and women being the population at greatest risk. With these data from this pilot phase, it is recommended to start implementing surveillance measures alongside health and nutrition indicators, mainly for the vulnerable population of this rural community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gut bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) could be released into the circulatory system via the gut–liver axis and cause inflammatory immune response, while Cordyceps militaris polysaccharide (CMP40) has been reported to be effective in alleviating this inflammatory response. In this study, the effects of CMP40 gut fermentation on internal LPS structure formation and the subsequent immune response were explored. Results showed that CMP40 could change antigenicity of LPS of Vibrio parahaemolyticus, Salmonella enterica, and enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, indicated by a reduced level of NO, IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α. The LPS structure of these three strains were further elucidated. ESI/MS results revealed that CMP40 fermentation could alter the LPS structure by removing phosphate group from a single Kdo sugar or removing additional sided fatty acid chain. The gene expressions of enzymes that are responsible for group transfer further confirmed this structure modification process. This study focused on the regulation of polysaccharide on gut bacteria LPS and provided a new insight into health effect of CMP40. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban agriculture along major highways often exposes food crops to heavy metal contamination, primarily from vehicular emissions. This review examines the origins, exposure pathways, and health risks associated with heavy metals in roadside vegetables. Sources include both tailpipe emissions, such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), and non-tailpipe emissions from tyre and brake wear, which release zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). Contamination occurs through atmospheric deposition on plant surfaces and root uptake from polluted soils. A systematic synthesis of global case studies reveals alarming levels of heavy metals, often exceeding WHO/FAO thresholds. For instance, vegetables cultivated along the Accra-Tema motorway in Ghana contained cadmium levels up to 279 mg/kg, posing significant health risks. Similarly, roadside vegetables in India, Nigeria, and China demonstrated bioaccumulation of toxic elements, with health implications including carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects. The review highlights the direct and indirect exposure pathways for humans, such as dietary intake of contaminated vegetables, inhalation of particulates, and dermal contact. Health consequences include gastrointestinal distress, neurotoxicity, reproductive issues, and elevated cancer risks. To mitigate these risks, the review advocates for the prohibition of vegetable farming near high-traffic highways, along with the implementation of stringent monitoring programs to assess and control heavy metal levels. Future research should address ecological impacts and integrate diverse contamination sources to develop effective risk management strategies. This work is a critical resource for policymakers, researchers, and urban planners aiming to enhance food safety and public health in urban settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Living near waste incineration plants (WIPs) may have adverse effects on health associated with quality of life (QOL) among local residents. This study was undertaken to measure the QOL of residents living near WIPs in China, identify the association between residential distance from the WIPs and QOL, and assess the mediating effect of respiratory symptoms on the association between residential distance and QOL. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in communities surrounding three municipal WIPs in Dongguan, China. The QOL using the WHOQOL-BREF and respiratory symptoms using the Medical Research Council Questionnaire (MRCQ) on Respiratory Symptoms were measured in 881 residents (454 living 3 km of their local WIP vs. 427 living 3–8 km from the WIP). Differences in respiratory symptoms and QOL in two separate items and four domains were analyzed. The associations of distance with respiratory symptoms and QOL were evaluated by multiple linear regression and logistic regression, respectively. Mediating effect of respiratory symptoms on the association between distance and QOL were tested using mediation analysis. Results: Compared with the 3–8 km group, residents in the 0–3 km group had significantly lower scores in the physical health domain (β= − 2.02, p = 0.027), social relationships domain (β= − 2.47, p = 0.016) and environment domain (β= − 3.55, p < 0.001). There were no significant associations between distance and psychological domain, overall QOL, and satisfaction with health after adjusting for other variables. Residents in the 0–3 km group were more likely to report respiratory symptoms than residents in the 3–8 km group (OR = 1.46, 95%CI 1.09–1.96, p = 0.011). Respiratory symptoms had a significant effect on physical health (β= − 7.48, p < 0.001), social relationships (β= − 5.02, p < 0.001) and environment domains (β= − 7.28, p < 0.001). Respiratory symptoms fully mediated the association of residential distance on physical health (31.7%), and partially mediated the associations of residential distance on social relationships (18.8%) and environment domains (17.3%). Conclusions: Residential distance from a WIP was significantly associated with QOL, and the association between residential distance and QOL was mediated by respiratory symptoms. Future longitudinal studies on adverse respiratory health effects of exposure to WIP emissions are required using objective assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone commonly used to enhance athletic performance and physical appearance. Despite their popularity, their nonmedical use is associated with significant health risks. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the impact of anabolic steroid use on physical health, emphasizing cardiovascular, hepatic, endocrine, and musculoskeletal systems, as well as broader systemic effects. Materials and Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar published between 2000 and 2023. Studies were selected based on relevance, with particular focus on human clinical trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses. Keywords included "anabolic steroids," "health effects," "cardiovascular risk," and "endocrine disruption.". Results: Anabolic steroid use is linked to increased cardiovascular risks, liver dysfunction, endocrine disturbances, and musculoskeletal injuries. Key effects include hypertension, hepatotoxicity, testosterone suppression, infertility, and tendon injuries. Psychological impacts such as aggression and mood changes were also observed. Conclusions: Anabolic steroid use poses significant risks to multiple organ systems and overall health. Despite widespread awareness of these dangers, misuse persists, often driven by societal pressures and misinformation. Healthcare providers should prioritize prevention through education, early intervention, and support for individuals at risk. Future research should focus on long-term effects and effective strategies for harm reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are produced in foods during their thermal treatment through routes like the Maillard reaction. They have been linked to various health issues such as diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. There are multiple pathways through which AGEs can form in foods and the body. Therefore, this review work aims to explore multiple formation pathways of AGEs to gain insights into their generation mechanisms. Furthermore, this review work has analyzed the recent trends in the detection and inhibition of AGEs in food matrices. It can be highlighted, based on the surveyed literature, that UHPLC-Orbitrap-Q-Exactive-MS and UPLC-ESI-MS/MS can produce highly sensitive results with a low limit of detection levels for AGEs in food matrices. Moreover, various works on inhibitory agents like spices, herbs, fruits, vegetables, hydrocolloids, plasma-activated water, and probiotic bacteria were assessed for their capacity to suppress the formation of AGEs in food products and simulation models. Overall, it is essential to decrease the occurrence of AGEs in food products, and future scope might include studying the interaction of macromolecular components in food products to minimize the production of AGEs without sacrificing the organoleptic qualities of processed foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture for pest control, but their improper usage and handling can lead to high farmer exposures, negative health effects, and pollution of water bodies. The purpose of this study was to investigate farmer's perceptions of the effects of pesticide runoff on water bodies, and to describe their self-reported knowledge of appropriate pesticide use, methods of application, sources of information, and related health issues and management strategies in Ethiopia. Data were collected via structured questionnaire, which was administered as an in-person interview to 582 farmers who cultivated vegetables. To assess unsafe pesticide handling practices, researchers observed the storage of pesticides and the condition of personal protective equipment and asked farmers about their pesticide disposal methods. The study found that nearly 87.97% of farmers reported mixing pesticides using a stick or their bare hands. Most respondents (88.83%) mixed pesticides to spray just on their farmland, and some (10.14%) were near water sources. It revealed that farmers have a low level of awareness about the risks and effects associated with pesticides and do not follow safe practices. Out of the farmers who had utilized pesticides, 55.67% reported encountering health issues associated with pesticide exposure. To reduce exposure and health risks, the study suggests implementing comprehensive interventions, such as integrated pest management, safety training, and alternative control methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Canadian Organization on Health Effects from Radiation Exposure (COHERE) is a collaborative initiative between two federal organisations, Health Canada (HC) and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC). COHERE will work to advance knowledge on biological mechanisms and human health risks from exposures to ionising radiation relevant to environmental and occupational settings. The objectives of the initiative include: better aligning Health Canada's and the CNSC's radiation science research priorities to focus and leverage resources; maintaining and enhancing expertise in radiobiology and epidemiology within the Government of Canada; providing an informed and consistent federal message to the public and stakeholders on matters involving low dose and low dose-rate ionising radiation; and strengthening Canada's contribution towards international efforts on the assessment of ionising radiation doses and health effects. These objectives support the application of international recommendations, Canadian regulations, and national guidance. COHERE's vision is to contribute knowledge to reduce scientific uncertainties from low dose and dose-rate exposures. It will advance our understanding by bridging the knowledge gap between human health outcomes, and linkages to molecular- and cellular-level responses to radiation. Research priorities focus on identifying sensitive, early, and key molecular events of relevance to risk assessment. The initiative will address questions of relevance to better apprise Canadians, including radiation workers, members of the public and indigenous peoples, on health risks from low dose and low dose-rate radiation exposure and inform radiation protection frameworks at a national and international level. Furthermore, it will support global efforts to conduct collaborative undertakings and better coordinate research. The strategic research agenda (SRA) developed by COHERE specifically considers the areas of research identified by many international radiation agencies to support the current and evolving system of radiological protection. The evolution of COHERE, its SRA and its activities since inception are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are the air pollutants emitted from the petrochemical industry known to pose adverse health effects on workers. The database based on the third phase of The Environmental Health Study in the Korean National Industrial Complexes (EHSNIC) in Ulsan conducted from 2018 to 2021 was used. Subjects were divided into the exposed and control group according to the estimated pollution level and distances from the industrial complexes. Ambient benzene, ethylbenzene, and xylene were significantly higher in the exposed group compared to the controls, as well as their metabolites. Risk of chronic disease and atopic dermatitis was higher in the exposed group which was supported by higher serum inflammatory markers and high hazard index of the exposed region. These results can draw attention to people engaged with environmental plans and used as primary data when making policies to reduce pollutant levels around industrial complexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles have sparked considerable interest in recent years due to their potential across various biomedical applications. However, their distinct physicochemical properties, including nanoscale size, high surface area-to-volume ratio, quantum confinement effects, increased reactivity, ion release, and photocatalytic activity, may result in toxicological effects or biological impacts that may not be manifest in their larger-scale counterparts. In this study, we aimed to investigate the complex interactions between ZnO nanoparticles and major drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, providing insights into the physicochemical characteristics of ZnO nanoparticles and their inhibitory effects on CYP enzyme activity in vitro and gene expression in HepG2 cells. Our findings revealed that smaller ZnO nanoparticles (< 50 nm) exhibit significant size-dependent inhibition on CYP enzymes, with CYP2C9 being the most susceptible (IC50 of 12.76 µg/ml; Ki of 8.20 µg/ml), followed by CYP3A4 (IC50 of 40.31 µg/ml; Ki of 20.14 µg/ml), CYP2D6 (IC50 of 56.03 µg/ml; Ki of 40.31 µg/ml), and CYP2C19 (IC50 of 64.24 µg/ml; Ki of 46.52 µg/ml). The molecular docking analysis corroborated these findings, revealing strong binding interactions between ZnO nanoparticles and key residues in CYP active sites. Furthermore, ZnO nanoparticles, particularly those < 50 nm, significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated the mRNA expression of CYP2C9, CYP3A4, and CYP2D6 in HepG2 cells. These findings suggest that ZnO nanoparticles can potentially impact drug metabolism by inhibiting CYP enzyme activities and altering their gene expressions, highlighting the need for further evaluation in clinical and pharmaceutical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of As, Co, Fe, and Zn in Brassica perviridis grown on 23 soil samples collected in Northern Vietnam was investigated using neutron activation analysis by irradiating the samples in the Cd-screen channel of the REGATA facility at the IBR-2 reactor. According to ecological indices, the soil samples from several locations were characterized by a significant or extremely high degree of contamination, which may be associated with mining activities. The average content of As, Co, Fe, and Zn in vegetable samples was 0.17, 0.38, 320, and 176 mg·kg−1, respectively. For all samples, target hazard index values were less than one, except for Brassica perviridis grown on soils collected in Laocai and Phutho. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Arctic Monitoring Assessment Program Human Health Assessment report 2021 presents a summary of the presence of environmental contaminants in human populations across the circumpolar Arctic and related health effects. Based on this report the objective of this paper is giving a short summary of the health effects related to the current level of persistent organic pollutants (POP) and metals. The overall key findings are as follows: i. metals and POP (polychlorinated biphenyls, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)) in the Arctic have known adverse health impacts on humans especially on developing foetuses and children. Lifestyle, diet and nutrition and genetics influence the risk; ii. POP and metals negatively impact the brain and immune system, increasing the risk of childhood obesity, type 2 diabetes later in life and negatively affect foetal growth and development: iii. marine food omega-3 fatty acids can diminish adverse effects of high mercury exposure on cardiovascular and neurological outcomes; iv. the interaction of genetic, lifestyle, nutrition status and contaminants can influence the risk of cancer, metabolic disease, nervous system disorders, disruption of reproduction and foetal and child growth. Future investigations must focus on genetically and effect modifiers and mixtures of POP exposures to explore the effect of chemical interaction on health outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of review was to describe the knowledge about exposures to bacteria, fungi and viruses present in bioaerosol in residential environment in moderate climate condition, in connection with health effects in humans, their sources. The basis for the narrative literature review were peer-reviewed papers published between January 2000 and September 2023 in English and Polish, meeting the established criteria. Knowledge about fungi, bacteria and viruses harmful to humans that may be present in the indoor air of dwellings was described. Into review are included components of the cell walls of bacteria (endotoxins) and fungi ((1-3)-β-D-glucans) and produced by them primary or secondary metabolites, including microbial volatile organic compounds and mycotoxins. Health effects that may occur in individuals exposed to bioaerosol by inhalation are described, including infectious, allergic and immunotoxic effects, mainly in respiratory system. Harmful effects of high concentrations of fungi inhalation exposure in dampness and mouldy buildings were described. Significant animate and inanimate sources of bioaerosol in living environment were indicated. The most important results of the literature review are presented in form of tables. The quantitative and qualitative composition of bioaerosol depends on the type and number of sources of bacteria, fungi and viruses, microclimatic and climatic conditions, and the type and specificity of the building. The type of negative health effects in humans depends on the quantitative and qualitative composition of the bioaerosol and the individual susceptibility and health status of the person. Prevention of adverse health effects consists of limitations the number of sources and diluting the concentration of bioaerosol. Med Pr Work Health Saf. 2024;75(6):545–560

Abstract Urban agriculture along major highways often exposes food crops to heavy metal contamination, primarily from vehicular emissions. This review examines the origins, exposure pathways, and health risks associated with heavy metals in roadside vegetables. Sources include both tailpipe emissions, such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd), and non-tailpipe emissions from tyre and brake wear, which release zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu). Contamination occurs through atmospheric deposition on plant surfaces and root uptake from polluted soils. A systematic synthesis of global case studies reveals alarming levels of heavy metals, often exceeding WHO/FAO thresholds. For instance, vegetables cultivated along the Accra-Tema motorway in Ghana contained cadmium levels up to 279 mg/kg, posing significant health risks. Similarly, roadside vegetables in India, Nigeria, and China demonstrated bioaccumulation of toxic elements, with health implications including carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects. The review highlights the direct and indirect exposure pathways for humans, such as dietary intake of contaminated vegetables, inhalation of particulates, and dermal contact. Health consequences include gastrointestinal distress, neurotoxicity, reproductive issues, and elevated cancer risks. To mitigate these risks, the review advocates for the prohibition of vegetable farming near high-traffic highways, along with the implementation of stringent monitoring programs to assess and control heavy metal levels. Future research should address ecological impacts and integrate diverse contamination sources to develop effective risk management strategies. This work is a critical resource for policymakers, researchers, and urban planners aiming to enhance food safety and public health in urban settings.