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Understanding the effect and partition of metals in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) can aid in designing processes to reduce metal emissions. This study focused on the effects of cadmium and lead, exposed alone (Cd or Pb) and in combination (Cd + Pb), on the enhanced biological phosphorus removal (EBPR) process at lab-scale. Parameters related to the metabolism of propionate, phosphorus (P), polyhydroxyalkanoates, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and enzyme activities were compared with those of a normal EBPR process. The effects induced by Cd included an incomplete uptake of propionate and poor P removal. Both Cd and Pb induced higher EPS production and altered the sludge settling properties; the effect of the former being more pronounced. Additionally, both Cd and Pb caused a lower content of phosphorus in the sludge but for different reasons. Cd affected the overall P removal by altering the P-uptake/release rates. Although Pb did not affect P removal, it formed P-containing complexes, likely resulting in less P available to the bacteria of the EBPR process. When present together, Cd and Pb exhibited synergistic effects. Regarding solubility, Cd remained soluble whereas Pb was mostly insoluble prior to starting the EBPR process. Consequently, Cd and Pb partitioned mainly to the effluent and sludge, respectively. To counteract this outcome, a treatment using adsorbents prior to the EBPR process was applied. However, as only soluble metals such as Cd can be effectively removed, only the effluent quality could be potentially improved. Stringent measures for metals such as Pb should be taken upstream WWTPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The invention of plastics has brought great convenience to the daily life of humans. However, due to the lack of an efficient recycling mechanism, a large number of plastic products have entered the freshwater environment, resulting in the pollution of microplastics (MPs), which poses a serious threat to aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Therefore, this paper reviews the toxic effects of MPs on algae and aquatic animals in freshwater environments and human health. This study aims to summarize the influencing factors and mechanisms of the toxic effects of MPs on freshwater environments. This study is of great significance for the effective prevention and control of MPs pollution and to enhance the quality of freshwater environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The rising concentration of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments poses increasing ecological risks, yet their impacts on biological communities remain largely unrevealed. This study investigated how aminopolystyrene microplastics (PS-NH2) affect physiology and gene expression using the freshwater alga Navicula sp. as the test species. After exposing Navicula sp. to high PS-NH2 concentrations for 24 h, growth was inhibited, with the most significant effect seen after 48 h. Increasing PS-NH2 concentrations reduced chlorophyll content, maximum photochemical quantum yield (Fv/Fm), and the photochemical quenching coefficient (Qp), while the non-photochemical quenching coefficient (NPQ) increased, indicating a substantial impact on photosynthesis. PS-NH2 exposure, damaged cell membrane microstructures, activated antioxidant enzymes, and significantly increased malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that PS-NH2 also affected the gene expression of Navicula sp. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are mainly related to porphyrin and chlorophyll metabolism, carbon fixation in photosynthesis, endocytosis, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis revealed significant interactions among DEGs, particularly within photosystem II. These findings shed insights into the toxic mechanisms and environmental implications of microplastic interactions with phytoplankton, deepening our understanding of the potential adverse effects of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Environmental Science & Technology (10036504) is the property of Editorial Board of Environmental Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

The present research work has been undertaken to assess the toxic effects of Parthenium hysterophorus, a obnoxious widespread plant causing a serious health threat to mammals and livestocks. The extract (10 mg/0.1 ml/kg body weight) prepared from the white flowering tops of Parthenium hysterophorus was administered alternate day to 20 adult male mice Mus musculus for 30 and 60 days respectively and their serum gonadotropic hormones levels [Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)] and testosterone were quantified on the days 31 and 61. The serum gonadotropic hormones and testosterone levels were lowered after 30 and 60 days of the treatment, while these effects were more prominent in the later part of the experiment. The results suggest that Parthenium hysterophorus induced changes in gonadotropic hormones and testosterone levels in male Mus musculus and the effects were duration dependent. The above effects may also suggest that the Parthenium hysterophorus interfere testosterone, Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone functions by modulating hypothalamo-hypophysial testicular axis or it acts directly on the testis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In recent years, semiconductor nanomaterials, as one of the most promising and applied classes of engineered nanomaterials, have been widely used in industries such as photovoltaics, electronic devices, and biomedicine. However, occupational exposure is unavoidable during the production, use, and disposal stages of products containing these materials, thus posing potential health risks to workers. The intricacies of the work environment present challenges in obtaining comprehensive data on such exposure. Consequently, there remains a significant gap in understanding the exposure risks and toxic effects associated with semiconductor nanomaterials. This paper provides an overview of the current classification and applications of typical semiconductor nanomaterials. It also delves into the existing state of occupational exposure, methodologies for exposure assessment, and prevailing occupational exposure limits. Furthermore, relevant epidemiological studies are examined. Subsequently, the review scrutinizes the toxicity of semiconductor nanomaterials concerning target organ toxicity, toxicity mechanisms, and influencing factors. The aim of this review is to lay the groundwork for enhancing the assessment of occupational exposure to semiconductor nanomaterials, optimizing occupational exposure limits, and promoting environmentally sustainable development practices in this domain. In recent years, semiconductor nanomaterials have been widely used in industries such as photovoltaics, electronics, and biomedicine. There are very few research reviews on the exposure risks of semiconductor nanomaterials during production and their effects on human health. This review discusses the current status of occupational exposure to semiconductor nanomaterials, epidemiological studies, target organ toxicity, and its toxicity mechanisms and influencing factors. It aims and provides a reference for future biosafety studies of engineered nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

The study of the viability of the spermatogenic epithelium in case of toxic lesions and their correction in experiment is a key factor for understanding the possibilities of restoring reproductive function in conditions of increasing technogenic pollution. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the level of pathomorphological changes in the testes of Wistar rats and the intensity of steroidogenesis upon administration of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) endotoxin and subsequent correction of intoxication by administration of oxidized dextran. Material and methods. Three groups of Wistar rats were formed, intraperitoneal administration: 2 ml of 0.9 % NaCl solution (n = 5, control); E. coli LPS at a dose of 50 μg/kg body weight (n = 5); E. coli LPS at the same dose, followed by the introduction of 2 ml of a 2 % solution of oxidized dextran (OD) (n = 5). The content of testosterone in the blood serum and pathomorphological changes in the testes were assessed. Results and discussion. The administration of LPS led to moderate hypotrophy of the spermatogenic epithelium due to a decrease in the numerical density of spermatocytes and spermatogonia (by 22.4 and 26.6 %, respectively); a decrease in the numerical density of Leydig cells by 14.5 % and testosterone levels by 2.3 times (in 80 % of animals, testosterone levels ranged from 4.3 to 2.0 nmol/l). The injection of OD after LPS caused an increase in seminiferous tubule diameter and the spermatogenic epithelium height (by 2,9 и 3,3 %, respectively), in numerical density of spermatocytes and spermatogonia (by 16.8 and 14.6 %, respectively) compared to LPS; increase in the ratio of the number of spermatocytes to spermatogonia (by 6.8 %) compared to the control. The numerical density of Leydig cells increased by 4 %, the testosterone level increased by 1.7 times (in 60 % of animals the testosterone level varied from 12.7 to 37.3 nmol/l) compared to LPS. Conclusions. A single administration of OD after acute exposure to E. coli LPS endotoxin initiated the onset of restoration of the histological structure of the spermatogenic epithelium of the seminiferous tubules. more...

This paper offers a concise literature review of the most significant chemical substances that contaminate water bodies, soil, and air. It examines priority chemical substances, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), organochlorine compounds, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins, and dioxin-containing compounds. The paper also provides examples of the toxic effects these substances can have on human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

A brief literature review is presented on the priority of the (most significant) heavy metals (mercury, lead, cadmium, arsenic) polluting water bodies, soils, and atmospheric air. Examples of the toxic effects of these metals on human health are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Journal of Food Safety & Quality is the property of Journal of Food Safety & Quality Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

The detection of pharmaceuticals in aquatic ecosystems has generated concern for wildlife and human health over the past several decades. β‐adrenergic blocking agents are a class of drugs designed to treat cardiovascular diseases and high blood pressure. Metoprolol is a second‐generation β1‐adrenergic receptor inhibitor detected in effluent derived from sewage treatment plants. Our review presents an updated survey of the current state of knowledge regarding the sources, occurrence, and toxicity of metoprolol in aquatic ecosystems. We further aimed to summarize the current literature on the presence of metoprolol in various classes of aquatic species and to consider the trophic transfer of these contaminants in marine mammals. The biological impacts of metoprolol have been reported in 20 aquatic organisms, with a primary focus on cardiac function and oxidative stress. Our review reveals that concentrations of metoprolol that cause toxicity in aquatic species are above levels that are typical of marine and freshwater environments. Future studies should investigate the effects of metoprolol at lower concentrations in aquatic organisms. Other recommendations include (1) a further focus on noncardiac endpoints, because computational assessments of currently available molecular data identify gonadotropins, vitellogenin, collagen, and cytokines as potential targets of modulation, and (2) development of adverse outcome pathways for cardiac dysfunction in aquatic species to improve our understanding of molecular interactions and outcomes following exposure. As the next generation of β‐blockers is developed, continued diligence is needed for assessing environmental impacts in aquatic ecosystems to determine their potential accumulation and long‐term effects on wildlife and humans. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2530–2544. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of South China Fisheries Science is the property of South China Fisheries Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

Copyright of Asian Journals of Ecotoxicology is the property of Gai Kan Bian Wei Hui and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

The mode of action, bioaccumulation potential and toxicity of Rare Earth Elements (REE), with several applications in the technology, medical and agricultural fields, are still understudied. The nitrates acute effects on single exposures, binary and ternary mixtures of lanthanum (La), neodymium (Nd) and samarium (Sm) on Lactuca sativa lettuce seed germination and wet biomass in an artificial soil (AS) and an Ultisol were assessed. Germination (EC50), wet biomass (IC50) and germination inhibition (% GI) were evaluated. EC50 values show La was the most toxic in Ultisol, Sm in AS, and Nd appears with intermediate values on both substrates. The IC50, both single and mixed, decreased from 3- to 181-fold with increasing test concentrations in relation to the control in AS, while increases in Ultisol were observed, followed by decreases at higher doses which may be associated with the low-dose stimulation effect (hormesis). Our findings may be used to subsidize REE risk assessment studies and reinforce the hormesis effect to prevent the use of high application of REE fertilizers, avoiding the accumulation of REE in agricultural soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Areca nut (Areca catechu L. AN), which is the dried, mature seed of the palm species Areca catechu L., is consumed by over 600 million individuals, predominantly in South Asia, East Africa, and certain regions of the tropical Pacific. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified it as a species carcinogenic to humans and designated it as a Group 1 human carcinogen. Arecoline, which has attracted attention for its therapeutic potential in the treatment of mental illness and the relief of gastrointestinal disorders, is the main active alkaloid in the areca nut. However, in 2020, the IARC said that arecoline might be a "probable human carcinogen". Arecoline can cause various types of cellular damage, primarily leading to the destruction of cell morphology, reduced survival rates, abnormal physiological functions, and even cell apoptosis. The research on its toxic mechanisms includes several aspects, such as increased levels of reactive oxygen species, autophagy, epigenetic dysregulation, and immune dysfunction, but these research findings are scattered and lack systematic integration. This article summarizes the effect mechanisms of arecoline on the oral cavity, neurological and cardiovascular systems, and other organs, as well as embryogenesis, and provides detailed and valuable insights for the clinical practice and targeted therapy of arecoline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an emerging organic compound used in the production of epoxy resin, polycarbonate plastics and thermal paper. Following the restrictions on the use of bisphenol A, many substitutes have been produced as its replacement in several consumer products. The main task of this research was to examine the toxic effects of single bisphenol analogues and their mixtures against freshwater microalgae Chlorella vulgaris and Desmodesmus armatus. The findings suggest that bisphenol B, bisphenol C, bisphenol PH (EC50 (14 day): 33.32-43.32 mg L-1) and bisphenol B, bisphenol C, bisphenol FL, bisphenol PH (EC50 (14 day): 30.49-64.54 mg L-1) show strong toxic effects towards C. vulgaris and D. armatus, respectively. In turn, the research results indicate that the toxicity of a mixture of examined bisphenol analogs on both species of green algae is much higher (EC50 (14 day): 24.55-32.68 mg L-1) than the individual toxicity of each component of the mixture. Therefore, it can be concluded that mixtures lead to the occurrence of synergistic effects. The toxicity of the individual bisphenol analogues and their mixture by EC50 (14 day) values in descending order, was as follows: mixture>bisphenol PH> bisphenol B> bisphenol C> bisphenol FL> bisphenol F> bisphenol E for C. vulgaris and bisphenol B> mixture> bisphenol FL> bisphenol C> bisphenol PH> bisphenol E> bisphenol F for D. armatus, respectively. Moreover, the present research expands current knowledge of the ecotoxicological risks of bisphenol analogues to aquatic organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

To determine the control mechanism of garlic on Myzus persicae, volatiles from garlic plants were collected, and the components were determined by GC–MS. Then, the volatile extracts and standard components were screened by electroantennogram (EAG) apparatus and Y‐tube olfactometer, and the toxic effects were determined by the immersion method. The results showed the main components from garlic plant volatile were 2‐methoxyphenol, 2,4‐di‐tert‐butylphenol, diallyl disulfide, butyl phthalate esters, (1‐hydroxycyclohexyl) phenyl ketone, and 2,6‐di‐tert‐butylp‐cresol. The volatile extracts and the standard components had significant repellent effects (P ≤ 0.05) on M. persicae when the volume ratio was 1:100. The relative values of EAG from volatile extracts and diallyl disulfide were significantly higher than those of the other substances (P ≤ 0.05) when the volume ratio was 1:100. The toxicity of garlic volatile extracts to M. persicae significantly (P ≤ 0.05) increased with increasing concentration. After 72 h (treated), the adjusted mortality of the extract to M. persicae was 36.99% at 90 ml/L. The standard components had the significant toxic effect on M. persicae at 30 mg/mL, and the rates of mortality were over 78.95%. Thus, the results suggested that the volatile extracts and the four standard components from garlic plants had significant repellent effects and electroantennogram responses for M. persicae, and the toxic effects were stronger than the repellent effects for M. persicae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Asian Journals of Ecotoxicology is the property of Gai Kan Bian Wei Hui and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...

2,2′,4,4′-tetrabromodiphenyl ether (BDE-47) is a widely used brominated flame retardant belonging to persistent organic pollutants (POPs). After being released into the marine environment, BDE-47 can cause a range of toxic effects on marine organisms through bioaccumulation, biomagnification, and intergenerational transmission. These effects include lethality, impaired motility, photosynthetic toxicity, immune damage, liver toxicity, developmental impairments, and reproductive toxicity. This article reviews the latest research progress on the toxic effects and molecular mechanisms of BDE-47 mentioned above. The primary mechanisms underlying its toxicity include oxidative stress, DNA damage, cellular apoptosis, impaired metabolism, and activation of the MAPK signaling cascade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

This study assessed the toxicity of the Sheathmar pesticide on Oreochromis mossambicus. The 96-h median lethal concentration (LC50) was determined using probit analysis, with survivability assessed using general threshold survival models (GUTS). Over 45 days, fish exposed to sublethal Sheathmar doses were studied for changes in growth, blood profiles, and liver enzymes. According to the findings, the LC50 values of Sheathmar for Oreochromis mossambicus at different time intervals were determined as follows: 3016.64 µg/l at 24 h, 2723.13 µg/l at 48 h, 2415.45 µg/l at 72 h, and 2154.87 µg/l at 96 h. The GUTS-SD model effectively predicted fish survivability after Sheathmar exposure. Sublethal exposure led to significant alterations in growth and hematological, biochemical, and stress enzyme parameters in Oreochromis mossambicus. Moreover, the correlation matrix, integrated biomarker response (IBR), and biomarker response index (BRI) highlighted significant impacts on multiple biomarkers in Oreochromis mossambicus. Thus, the results underscore the harmful effects of Sheathmar on Oreochromis mossambicus, indicating a need for further study and mitigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

ABSTRACT Pyriproxyfen (PPF) acts as a juvenile growth regulator, interfering with normal metamorphosis and blocking the development of insects into adulthood. Although the World Health Organization (WHO) considers the use of PPF at a concentration of 0.01 mg/L as unlikely to pose health risks, recent studies have unveiled potential risks associated with PPF exposure to non-target organisms. Exposure to PPF disrupts insect development primarily by mimicking juvenile hormones; therefore, concerns linger over its impact on unintended species. Studies have highlighted the adverse effects of PPF on aquatic invertebrates, fish, and amphibians and revealed mortality and developmental abnormalities in non-target mosquito species exposed to PPF-treated water. Moreover, PPF may act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormonal pathways crucial for growth, reproduction, and behavior in exposed organisms. Amphibians, for instance, display altered reproductive physiology and developmental abnormalities due to disruptions in endocrine signaling pathways caused by PPF. The ecological ramifications of PPF extend beyond direct toxicity to non-target species. Indirect effects include shifts in food web dynamics and ecosystem functioning. Reductions in insect populations, induced by PPF, can disrupt food availability for higher trophic levels, potentially destabilizing community structure and ecosystem equilibrium. Given mounting evidence of unintended consequences, robust risk assessment and regulatory oversight are imperative. Accurate classification of PPF by regulatory bodies is essential to balancing its role in disease control and pest management benefits with the need to safeguard non-target species and maintain ecosystem health. Future research must prioritize comprehensive assessments of PPF's ecological impact across various habitats and taxa to inform evidence-based policymaking. more...

In this paper, a concise review of the literature on the effects of beryllium (Be) on aquatic animals, as well as the effect of uptake of Be on the growth of some of the aquatic organisms and plants is compiled when studies are performed in water-based nutrient solutions containing Be. After referring to various important international reports published by different agencies such as the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Environmental Protection Agency, and World Health Organization (WHO), as well as other literature papers available on the topic over last (70–80) years, a compilation of different studies on the effect of toxicity of Be on aquatic animals, organisms, and some plants is reported. Furthermore, information on different limits/levels for the protection of marine and aquatic organisms, as recommended by various international agencies, is included. Based on the studies available in the literature, the reasons behind the establishment of discharge criteria for Be-based effluents are included in the paper. Information on the limits of Be in drinking water, as recommended by various international agencies, are also reported. It is hoped that the compiled information will provide comprehensive details about the effects of Be toxicity on plants, aquatic organisms, etc., and will be useful to researchers worldwide in understanding the toxicology of Be as well as in understanding the reasons behind the selection of 0.10 ppm as the discharge criteria for Be-based effluents adopted previously by countries such as USA, UK, and India. Based on the literature information, it has been argued that the discharge criteria of 0.10 ppm for Be-based waste effluents adopted almost 60 years earlier is still adequate and relevant as adverse effects of Be on aquatic animals, plants, etc., are reported to be at Be concentrations >0.10 ppm or so even for highly sensitive organisms. Be enters the environment mainly through industrial pollution; waste management of Be contaminants is a challenge. The present review also includes the recently reported information on the effective management of Be prevalent in liquid/aqueous media and various studies on behavior of Be in soils, techniques for sorption, and related chemical and physical processes associated. more...

Aim Methods Results Conclusion We aimed to investigate plasma lamotrigine concentrations and clinical effects in infants exposed to lamotrigine through breastfeeding.This was a retrospective study of mother–infant dyads in a clinical follow‐up programme in Stockholm, Sweden. Data were collected from medical records.We included 47 breastfed infants, born from 2011 to 2021, with a median gestational age of 39 + 6 weeks/days and a median birth weight of 3420 g. The median lamotrigine concentration in the infants' plasma was 2.5 (range 2.5–14.0) μmol/L. These concentrations correlated significantly with both the maternal plasma concentrations and the maternal doses (R = 0.79, p < 0.001 versus R = 0.54, p < 0.001). During the follow up, lamotrigine concentrations within the reference range for epilepsy treatment were detected in six (14%) infants and one had clinical symptoms that were probably related to lamotrigine exposure. Liver transaminases were elevated in three of 21 infants. All infants whose mothers had a dose of 150 mg or less had undetectable plasma concentrations and no symptoms during follow up.Infants exposed to lamotrigine through breastfeeding had a low risk of toxic effects. All infants whose mothers had low lamotrigine doses had unmeasurable plasma concentrations and no symptoms of lamotrigine exposure. These low‐risk infants might be offered a simplified follow up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Background and Objectives Despite the growing popularity of medicinal plants, concerns remain regarding their potential side effects and toxicity, particularly on organs like the liver and kidneys. This study aims to evaluate the toxic effects of Citrulus colocynthis on liver enzymes and kidney biochemical markers in rats. Subjects and Methods In this study, 40 adult male rats weighing between 250-300 grams were randomly assigned to four groups: a control group and three experimental groups receiving Citrulus colocynthis extract at doses of 100 mg/kg, 200 mg/kg, and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Citrulus colocynthis extract was given through gavage, and after the completion of the test, the serum levels of liver enzymes and several renal factors were measured. Results The results of this study indicated that all three doses of the extract caused a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase levels compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Additionally, different doses of the extract led to an increase in serum levels of urea, creatinine, and uric acid; however, this increase was not statistically significant compared to the control group (p > 0.05). Conclusion Although the extract of medicinal plants such as Citrulus colocynthis helps in the treatment of diabetes, asthma, allergies, cancer and colds, its toxicity on organs such as liver and kidney, which are vital organs of the body, should be studied more comprehensively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

In 2019, there was an environmental catastrophe in Brazil, when more than 5000 tons of unknown origin crude oil invaded beaches and mangroves. Two years later, two monitoring areas were selected to study seahorses' offspring: Massangana River estuary (apparently healthy area) and Cocaia Island (affected area). Thirty‐six reproductive events of Hippocampus reidi (Syngnathidae) couples from these two areas were monitored to analyze the offspring. At the apparently healthy area, no newborns with malformations were found. However, the offspring from Cocaia Island showed a mean of 19.73% (±5.23) malformations in newborns. It is argued that the toxic/teratogenic effects of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons have affected the population in two ways: directly through the induction of mutations in the germ cells of the species and through a drastic reduction of the population (bottleneck effect) whose density observed today recovered through consanguineous couplings, potentiating deleterious genotypes in the offspring. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1996–2004. © 2024 SETAC [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Recent advances in immunotherapy using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for various cancers have also highlighted a rise in immune-related adverse events, including hepatitis, potentially leading to the discontinuation of treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hepatitis in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients undergoing different ICI therapies. An extensive search of PubMed, PubMed Central, and Google Scholar up to November 2023 identified relevant studies. After excluding non-English articles, case reports, reviews, ongoing trials, and studies combining other therapies, five studies qualified for inclusion. Data extraction and statistical analyses were performed using Excel and Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software, respectively. Results from a subgroup analysis indicated that the incidence of hepatitis was comparable among patients treated with PD-1 monotherapy, PDL-1 monotherapy, and combination PD-1 and CTLA-4 therapy, with rates of 2.6%, 2.2%, and 1.7% for any grade and 2.1%, 2.2%, and 1.7% for grade ≥3 hepatitis, respectively. Naive-treated mCRC patients exhibited higher hepatitis rates than those previously treated (3.2% vs 1.6% and 2.6% vs 1.6% for any grade and grade ≥3, respectively). This study underscores the similar risk of hepatitis across different ICI therapies, with an increased incidence in naive-treated mCRC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] more...

Copyright of Magazine of Al-Kufa University for Biology is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.) more...