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In the modern "omics" era, measurement of the human exposome is a critical missing link between genetic drivers and disease outcomes. High-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), routinely used in proteomics and metabolomics, has emerged as a leading technology to broadly profile chemical exposure agents and related biomolecules for accurate mass measurement, high sensitivity, rapid data acquisition, and increased resolution of chemical space. Non-targeted approaches are increasingly accessible, supporting a shift from conventional hypothesis-driven, quantitation-centric targeted analyses toward data-driven, hypothesis-generating chemical exposome-wide profiling. However, HRMS-based exposomics encounters unique challenges. New analytical and computational infrastructures are needed to expand the analysis coverage through streamlined, scalable, and harmonized workflows and data pipelines that permit longitudinal chemical exposome tracking, retrospective validation, and multi-omics integration for meaningful health-oriented inferences. In this article, we survey the literature on state-of-the-art HRMS-based technologies, review current analytical workflows and informatic pipelines, and provide an up-to-date reference on exposomic approaches for chemists, toxicologists, epidemiologists, care providers, and stakeholders in health sciences and medicine. We propose efforts to benchmark fit-for-purpose platforms for expanding coverage of chemical space, including gas/liquid chromatography-HRMS (GC-HRMS and LC-HRMS), and discuss opportunities, challenges, and strategies to advance the burgeoning field of the exposome.

The publication presents data on the removal of heavy metals by energy crops Miscanthus giganteus L. and Phalaris arundinacea L. when grown on technologically polluted soils. The yield of Miscanthus giganteus averaged 16.96 t/ha over the two years of research, and that of Falaris arundinacea – 4.38 t/ha, respectively. The nature of heavy metal accumulation by energy plants depended on the type of crop and its productivity during the years of cultivation. The concentration of all heavy metals in the phytomass of energy crops did not exceed the threshold limit value (TLV), except for zinc in miscanthus giganteus plants (by 9–11 mg/kg). Compared to the years of the study, in the second year of cultivation, the coefficient of heavy metal absorption by plants increased significantly compared to the first year due to an increase in the vegetative mass of plants. On average, in 2021–2023, the energy crops Phalaris arundinacea and Miscanthus x giganteus removed a significant amount of heavy metals from 1 ha of soil. It has been proven that energy crops such as Phalaris arundinacea and Miscanthus x giganteus contribute to the purification of technologically contaminated soils from heavy metals, and their products can be used further as biofuels and for other purposes, as the content of toxicants in their phytomass does not exceed the TLV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An uncontrolled industrialisation and urbanisation have caused environmental contamination with toxic inorganic and organic substances. The enormous release of industrial wastewater, industrial sludge, electronic waste, domestic waste and excess use of synthetic and pesticides fertilisers are the major causes of environmental pollution. Contamination of agricultural goods is directly related with the health of human beings as well as entire ecosystem. Among the agricultural crops, vegetables are generally cultivated near the river basins owing to the irrigation water availability and good fertility of the soil. The presence of heavy metal and metalloids (HMMs) like cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), arsenic (As), cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), mercury (Hg), zinc (Zn) in the vegetable cultivated and marketed across the world is a challenging concern. Periodical identification and quantification of the contaminants especially HMMs in the vegetables is an important aspect for the good health of human beings and global safe food security. In the present review, the level of HMMs in the commonly grown vegetables in from thirty countries has been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water sources is contaminated with different types of impurities. Several technologies and materials are used for purification of contaminated water. Most of the reported technologies costly and produce secondary contaminants. Nowa day, researchers are used hydrogels for water purification. Hydrogels are applied drug delivery, catalysis, tissue engineering, sensing and removal of environmental pollutants, applications, and energy storage. Hydrogels have specific functional groups as –COOH, -SO3H, -OH, CONH2, -NH2, -SH and other groups which are responsible for applications. Hydrogels were removes impurities from water through physio-adsorption, chemo-adsorption, sorption and secondary forces. The aim of this review is to explore the preparation method, conceptualization of hydrogels and their uses in water purification. It describes details of toxicants in water, different types of hydrogels and their synthesis methods. These hydrogels were used for water purification and evaluated for removal capacity with respect to toxicants in water. Nowadays hydrogels are modified based on their applications to create specific functionality on hydrogel. Specific hydrogel will be emerging tool for specific applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Toxicants inhibit microbial fermentation and reduce product titres. This work investigated the glycerol production characteristics of Candida glycerinogenes in highly toxic unwashed undetoxified hydrolysate and provided new ideas for high glycerol production from hydrolysates. Results: The unwashed hydrolysate contains higher concentrations of toxicants, such as furfural, acetic acid, phenols and NaCl than the washed alkali-treated bagasse hydrolysate. C. glycerinogenes fermented unwashed undetoxified hydrolysate yielded 36.1 g/L glycerol, 15.8% higher than the washed hydrolysate, suggesting that the toxicants stimulated glycerol synthesis. qRT-PCR analysis showed that toxicants of unwashed undetoxified hydrolysates greatly up-regulated the transcript levels of the genes GPD1, HXT4 and MSN4 et al. Overexpressing the above genes increased glycerol production by 27.9% to 46.1 g/L. And it was further increased by 8.8% to 50.1 g/L in a 5 L bioreactor. Conclusions: This result proves that toxicants in lignocellulosic hydrolysates can increase the titre of microbial glycerol production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans are exposed to different types of toxic agents, which may directly induce organ malfunction or indirectly alter gene expression, leading to carcinogenic and teratogenic effects, and eventually death. Ginseng (Panax ginseng) is the most valuable of all medicinal herbs. Nevertheless, specific data on the antidotal mechanisms of this golden herb are currently unavailable. Based on the findings of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies, this review focused on the probable protective mechanisms of ginseng and its major components, such as protopanaxadiols, protopanaxatriols, and pentacyclic ginsenosides against various chemical toxic agents. Relevant articles from 2000 to 2023 were gathered from PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This literature review shows that P. ginseng and its main components have protective and antidotal effects against the deteriorative effects of pesticides, pharmaceutical agents, including acetaminophen, doxorubicin, isoproterenol, cyclosporine A, tacrolimus, and gentamicin, ethanol, and some chemical agents. These improvements occur through multi-functional mechanisms. They exhibit antioxidant activity, induce anti-inflammatory action, and block intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. However, relevant clinical trials are necessary to validate the mentioned effects and translate the knowledge from basic science to human benefit, fulfilling the fundamental goal of all toxicologists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IntroductionIn recent years, Volcanoes National Park has seen a rise in its wildlife population, primarily due to the diligent efforts of the Rwandan government in safeguarding endangered species, notably the mountain gorillas (Gorilla beringei spp. beringei). This population growth has led to a pressing need for more expansive habitats, ensuring these creatures have ample space, sustenance, and shelter for their wellbeing. Consequently, there are planned park expansion activities on the horizon. However, before initiating this expansion, a critical prelude involves identifying potential threats, particularly toxic substances stemming from agricultural activities in the surrounding environment of Volcanoes National Park.MethodsTo address this concern, a comprehensive study was conducted, aimed at pinpointing potential toxic hazards and assessing the awareness of the local population regarding the harm these hazards pose to wildlife species. Data was collected from individuals with no prior knowledge of the study using a pre-tested questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: socio-demographic issues, potential toxic hazards assessment, and a section to determine awareness and risk of potential toxic hazards to humans, animals, and the environment. Respondents were selected based on specific criteria, which included being 18 years or older and residing within the National Volcano Park (NVP) area.ResultsThe study's findings revealed four main categories of potential toxic hazards, which include household chemicals, pharmaceutical products, agricultural pesticides, and poisonous plants. These hazards could jeopardize the health and survival of wildlife species if they consume or come into contact with them. Furthermore, the study exposed an inadequacy in the knowledge and skills of the local community in preventing these toxic hazards, which can result in death of wildlife species and ecosystem contamination and degradation.ConclusionStudy results also underscored the significance of education and training in enhancing the awareness of local communities concerning these toxic threats. Therefore, it is imperative to implement immediate measures to mitigate the adverse effects of these toxic hazards on wildlife species, especially in light of the planned park expansion.

The article presents a study of both acute and chronic levels in the laboratory for four days and ten days respectively, for the two chemical toxicans technical grade (TG) & 10% WP. Topics discussed include the selected organs of study, increment series for the transferase enzyme, and finding on all the vital organs/tissues/ cells of the concentrations of the toxicants.

Wild animals appear to be a key factor in the occurrence, transmission and prevalence of a myriad of contagious animal diseases, being natural reservoirs, vectors or both. This role is played by wild boars in the African swine fever (ASF) transmission to domestic pigs. ASF entered the European Union in 2014 and since then lots of measures have been implemented to bring the disease under control. Bulgaria also tried to introduce new measures for reduction of wild boar populations, regarding ASF through legislative amendments. Proposals in the Bulgarian Law on hunting and game protection from 2020 tried to make legitimate wild boar culling with some unselective approaches like the use of baits with chemical poisonous or intoxicating substances. This provoked the authors to study the experience of other countries on particular toxicants used for baiting for control of wild boar populations. We investigated the available scientific literature on the selective character of chemical baiting and the effect on non-target species. Moreover, the participation of different stakeholders in the process of development and implementation of the mentioned measures was discussed. Thus, proposals were made for better preparatory, scientific and efficiency investigation at the preliminary stage of animal disease control measures development.

Liver is one of the targets of cadmium (Cd) bioaccumulation for hepatic damage and pathologies via oxidative inflammation and apoptosis. The current study explored whether the citrus flavonoid naringenin (NAR) could prevent hepatic accumulation of Cd and Cd hepatotoxicity in a rat model. Rats in group 1 received normal saline; group 2 received NAR (50 mg/kg body weight); group 3 received CdCl2 (5 mg/kg body weight); group 4 received NAR + CdCl2, for four consecutive weeks. Assays related to markers of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis were carried out using liver homogenate. Blood and liver sample analyses revealed significant elevation of blood and hepatic Cd levels coupled with prominent increases in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, whereas the albumin and total protein levels were decreased considerably. Hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxide (GPx) activities diminished significantly compared to control followed by marked increases in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and dysregulation in caspase and cytokine (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4, IL-10) levels. However, it was found that in the rats administered NAR + Cd, the levels of Cd, hepatic enzymes, MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, and caspases-3/-9 were prominently reduced compared to the Cd group. The hepatic SOD, CAT, GPx, IL-4, IL-10, albumin, and total protein were markedly elevated along with alleviated hepatic histopathological abrasions. Taken together therefore, NAR is a potential flavonoid for blocking hepatic Cd bioaccumulation and consequent inhibition of Cd-induced oxidative inflammation and apoptotic effects on the liver of rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Restoring soil fertility and protecting it from pollution are complex scientific tasks of our time that require a set of physical, chemical and biological measures. An important theoretical and applied aspect is the development of new remediation methods to reduce soil degradation processes under the influence of chemical pollution. The publication analyzes the ecological features of the energy crops Miscanthus giganteus L. and Phalaris arundinacea L. as phytoremediation agents of soils contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, and oil products. The content of toxicants in contaminated soils as a result of energy crops cultivation has significantly decreased, in particular, the content of mobile forms and the mass fraction of heavy metals. The greatest decrease was observed in the content of mobile forms of chromium: in the area contaminated with petroleum products by 0.55 mg/kg when growing reeds and by 1.06 mg/kg when growing miscanthus, and in the area contaminated with pesticides by 3.65 and 5.25 mg/kg, respectively. The gross stibium content decreased in the area contaminated with oil products by 60 mg/kg when growing reeds and by 69.61 mg/kg of soil when growing miscanthus, and by 65.68 and 78.35 mg/kg in the area contaminated with pesticides. The concentration of cadmium in the studied plots where energy crops were grown decreased in the range of 0.131-0.193 mg/kg when growing Phalaris arundinacea L. and by 0.187-0.312 mg/kg when growing Miscanthus giganteus L., respectively. The content of organic pollutants was also significantly reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The migration of heavy metals and radionuclides is interrelated, and this study focusses on the interaction and complex influence of various toxicants. The rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated territories has a complex character and is based on scientifically supported measures to restore industrial, economic, and sociopsychological relations. We aim for the achievement of pre-emergency levels of hygienic norms of radioactive contamination of output products. This, in its sum, allows for further economic activity in these territories without restrictions on the basis of natural actions of autoremediation. Biosorption technologies based on bacterial biomass remain a promising direction for the remediation of soils contaminated with radionuclides and heavy metals that help immobilise and consolidate contaminants. A comprehensive understanding of the biosorption capacity of various preparations allows for the selection of more effective techniques for the elimination of contaminants, as well as the overcoming of differences between laboratory results and industrial use. Observation and monitoring make it possible to evaluate the migration process of heavy metals and radionuclides and identify regions with a disturbed balance of harmful substances. The promising direction of the soil application of phosphogypsum, a by-product of the chemical industry, in bioremediation processes is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild animals appear to be a key factor in the occurrence, transmission and prevalence of a myriad of contagious animal diseases, being natural reservoirs, vectors or both. This role is played by wild boars in the African swine fever (ASF) transmission to domestic pigs. ASF entered the European Union in 2014 and since then lots of measures have been implemented to bring the disease under control. Bulgaria also tried to introduce new measures for reduction of wild boar populations, regarding ASF through legislative amendments. Proposals in the Bulgarian Law on hunting and game protection from 2020 tried to make legitimate wild boar culling with some unselective approaches like the use of baits with chemical poisonous or intoxicating substances. This provoked the authors to study the experience of other countries on particular toxicants used for baiting for control of wild boar populations. We investigated the available scientific literature on the selective character of chemical baiting and the effect on non-target species. Moreover, the participation of different stakeholders in the process of development and implementation of the mentioned measures was discussed. Thus, proposals were made for better preparatory, scientific and efficiency investigation at the preliminary stage of animal disease control measures development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose of Review: In recent decades, epidemiological understanding of Parkinson disease (PD) has evolved significantly. Major discoveries in genetics and large epidemiological investigations have provided a better understanding of the genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors that play a role in the pathogenesis and progression of PD. In this review, we provide an epidemiological update of PD with a particular focus on advances in the last five years of published literature. Recent Findings: We include an overview of PD pathophysiology, followed by a detailed discussion of the known distribution of disease and varied determinants of disease. We describe investigations of risk factors for PD, and provide a critical summary of current knowledge, knowledge gaps, and both clinical and research implications. We emphasize the need to characterize the epidemiology of the disease in diverse populations. Summary: Despite increasing understanding of PD epidemiology, recent paradigm shifts in the conceptualization of PD as a biological entity will also impact epidemiological research moving forward and guide further work in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lung injury has been a serious medical problem that requires new therapeutic approaches and biomarkers. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that exist widely in eukaryotes. CircRNAs are single-stranded RNAs that form covalently closed loops. CircRNAs are significant gene regulators that have a role in the development, progression, and therapy of lung injury by controlling transcription, translating into protein, and sponging microRNAs (miRNAs) and proteins. Although the study of circRNAs in lung injury caused by pulmonary toxicants is just beginning, several studies have revealed their expression patterns. The function that circRNAs perform in relation to pulmonary toxicants (severe acute respiratory distress syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), drug abuse, PM2.5, and cigarette smoke) is the main topic of this review. A variety of circRNAs can serve as potential biomarkers of lung injury. In this review, the biogenesis, properties, and biological functions of circRNAs were concluded, and the relationship between circRNAs and pulmonary toxicants was discussed. It is expected that the new ideas and potential treatment targets that circRNAs provide would be beneficial to research into the molecular mechanisms behind lung injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study, a multi-site prospective longitudinal cohort study, will examine human brain, cognitive, behavioral, social, and emotional development beginning prenatally and planned through early childhood. The charge of the HBCD Social and Environmental Determinants (SED) working group is to develop and implement a battery of assessments to broadly characterize the social and physical environment during the prenatal period and early life to characterize risk and resilience exposures that can impact child growth and development. The SED battery consists largely of measures that will be repeated across the course of the HBCD Study with appropriate modifications for the age of the child and include participant demographics, indicators of socioeconomic status, stress and economic hardship, bias and discrimination (e.g., racism), acculturation, neighborhood safety, child and maternal exposures to adversity, environmental toxicants, social support, and other protective factors. Special considerations were paid to reducing participant burden, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, and adopting trauma-informed practices for the collection of sensitive information such as domestic violence exposure and adverse childhood experiences. Overall, the SED battery will provide essential data to advance understanding of child development and approaches to advance health equity across infant and child development.

The area of impact zones of industrial contamination, oil and oil products spills, motor vehicle emissions, radioactive substances, as well as pesticides and mineral fertilizers application on agricultural lands of the Russian Federation is calculated. The share of the territory under consideration in the total area of agricultural lands of the country does not exceed 3%. Soils in the zone of contamination influence are considered to be potentially polluted and should be included in the monitoring program of agricultural land. Soils outside the zone of influence of pollutant dissemination are uncontaminated. Regular monitoring of contamination of these soils should not be carried out, which will reduce the costs of monitoring. More than 97% of the Russian agricultural land is represented by uncontaminated soils and is suitable for the production of bio products. Regular monitoring of contamination of these soils should not be conducted, which will reduce the cost of the survey, including sample collection, preparation and analysis. In view of the lack of soil contamination, the transition to the cultivation of bio products should be based on declarative approach. In this case, bio production should meet the requirements of special cultivation technologies and the product quality standards.

Poly- and per-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic environmentally persistent chemicals. Despite the phaseout of specific PFAS, their inherent stability has resulted in ubiquitous and enduring environmental contamination. PFAS bioaccumulation has been reported globally with omnipresence in most populations wherein they have been associated with a range of negative health effects, including strong associations with increased instances of testicular cancer and reductions in overall semen quality. To elucidate the biological basis of such effects, we employed an acute in vitro exposure model in which the spermatozoa of adult male mice were exposed to a cocktail of PFAS chemicals at environmentally relevant concentrations. We hypothesized that direct PFAS treatment of spermatozoa would induce reactive oxygen species generation and compromise the functional profile and DNA integrity of exposed cells. Despite this, post-exposure functional testing revealed that short-term PFAS exposure (3 h) did not elicit a cytotoxic effect, nor did it overtly influence the functional profile, capacitation rate, or the in vitro fertilization ability of spermatozoa. PFAS treatment of spermatozoa did, however, result in a significant delay in the developmental progression of the day 4 pre-implantation embryos produced in vitro. This developmental delay could not be attributed to a loss of sperm DNA integrity, DNA damage, or elevated levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species. When considered together, the results presented here raise the intriguing prospect that spermatozoa exposed to a short-term PFAS exposure period potentially harbor an alternate stress signal that is delivered to the embryo upon fertilization.

Background: We sought to replicate our 2015 findings linking chemical intolerance in parents with the risk of their children developing autism and/or ADHD. Drawing upon our 2021 discovery of a strong association between chemical intolerance and mast cells, we propose an explanation for this link. Methods: In a population-based survey of U.S. adults, we used the internationally validated Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) to assess symptom severity and chemical intolerance. Parents were asked how many of their biological children had been diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD. Results: Parents with chemical intolerance scores in the top versus bottom tenth percentile had 5.7 times the risk of reporting a child with autism and 2.1 times for ADHD. Conclusions: High chemical intolerance scores among parents of children with autism, coupled with our 2021 discovery of mast cell activation as a plausible biomechanism for chemical intolerance, suggest that (1) the QEESI can identify individuals at increased risk, (2) environmental counseling may reduce personal exposures and risk, and (3) the global rise in autism and ADHD may be due to fossil-fuel-derived and biogenic toxicants epigenetically “turning on” or “turning off” critical mast cell genes that can be transmitted transgenerationally. It is important to note that this study was observational in nature; as such, further research is needed using controlled trials to confirm causality and explore the proposed mechanism.

In this narrative review, we highlight the challenges of comparing emissions from different tobacco products under controlled laboratory settings (using smoking/ vaping machines). We focus on tobacco products that generate inhalable smoke or aerosol, such as cigarettes, cigars, hookah, electronic cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. We discuss challenges associated with sample generation including variability of smoking/vaping machines, lack of standardized adaptors that connect smoking/vaping machines to different tobacco products, puffing protocols that are not representative of actual use, and sample generation session length (minutes or number of puffs) that depends on product characteristics. We also discuss the challenges of physically characterizing and trapping emissions from products with different aerosol characteristics. Challenges to analytical method development are also covered, highlighting matrix effects, order of magnitude differences in analyte levels, and the necessity of tailored quality control/quality assurance measures. The review highlights two approaches in selecting emissions to monitor across products, one focusing on toxicants that were detected and quantified with optimized methods for combustible cigarettes, and the other looking for productspecific toxicants using non-targeted analysis. The challenges of data reporting and statistical analysis that allow meaningful comparison across products are also discussed. We end the review by highlighting that even if the technical challenges are overcome, emission comparison may obscure the absolute exposure from novel products if we only focus on relative exposure compared to combustible products.

Understanding the mechanisms by which environmental factors impact reproductive health is crucial for informing public health interventions and policy decisions. By elucidating the pathways through which environmental stressors exert their effects, we can develop targeted strategies to mitigate risks and promote reproductive well-being. In this lecture, we will delve into the latest research findings and emerging trends in the field of environmental reproductive health. By exploring the intricate interplay between environmental exposures and reproductive outcomes, we aim to broaden our understanding of this complex relationship and its implications for human health. Through collaborative efforts across disciplines, we can work towards safeguarding reproductive health for current and future generations.

Background: We sought to replicate our 2015 findings linking chemical intolerance in parents with the risk of their children developing autism and/or ADHD. Drawing upon our 2021 discovery of a strong association between chemical intolerance and mast cells, we propose an explanation for this link. Methods: In a population-based survey of U.S. adults, we used the internationally validated Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI) to assess symptom severity and chemical intolerance. Parents were asked how many of their biological children had been diagnosed with autism and/or ADHD. Results: Parents with chemical intolerance scores in the top versus bottom tenth percentile had 5.7 times the risk of reporting a child with autism and 2.1 times for ADHD. Conclusions: High chemical intolerance scores among parents of children with autism, coupled with our 2021 discovery of mast cell activation as a plausible biomechanism for chemical intolerance, suggest that (1) the QEESI can identify individuals at increased risk, (2) environmental counseling may reduce personal exposures and risk, and (3) the global rise in autism and ADHD may be due to fossil-fuel-derived and biogenic toxicants epigenetically "turning on" or "turning off" critical mast cell genes that can be transmitted transgenerationally. It is important to note that this study was observational in nature; as such, further research is needed using controlled trials to confirm causality and explore the proposed mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this narrative review, we highlight the challenges of comparing emissions from different tobacco products under controlled laboratory settings (using smoking/ vaping machines). We focus on tobacco products that generate inhalable smoke or aerosol, such as cigarettes, cigars, hookah, electronic cigarettes, and heated tobacco products. We discuss challenges associated with sample generation including variability of smoking/vaping machines, lack of standardized adaptors that connect smoking/vaping machines to different tobacco products, puffing protocols that are not representative of actual use, and sample generation session length (minutes or number of puffs) that depends on product characteristics. We also discuss the challenges of physically characterizing and trapping emissions from products with different aerosol characteristics. Challenges to analytical method development are also covered, highlighting matrix effects, order of magnitude differences in analyte levels, and the necessity of tailored quality control/quality assurance measures. The review highlights two approaches in selecting emissions to monitor across products, one focusing on toxicants that were detected and quantified with optimized methods for combustible cigarettes, and the other looking for productspecific toxicants using non-targeted analysis. The challenges of data reporting and statistical analysis that allow meaningful comparison across products are also discussed. We end the review by highlighting that even if the technical challenges are overcome, emission comparison may obscure the absolute exposure from novel products if we only focus on relative exposure compared to combustible products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When examining some factors that contribute to the growth or decline of a population or tumor, it is essential to consider a random hypothesis. By analyzing the effects of stress on a population (or volume of tumor growth) in a random environment, we develop stochastic models describing the dynamics of the population (or tumor growth) based on random adjustments to the population’s intrinsic growth rate, carrying capacity, and harvesting efforts (or tumor treatments). Apart from the models’ ability to capture fluctuations, the availability of a shape parameter in the models gives it the flexibility to describe a variety of population/tumor data with different shapes. The distribution of the stressed population size with or without harvesting (or treatments) is derived and used to calculate the maximum expected amount of harvests that can be taken from the population without depleting resources in the long run (or the minimum amount of chemotherapy needed to cause shrinkage or eradication of a tumor). The work done is applied to analyze tumor growth using published data comprising of the volume of breast tumor obtained by orthotopically implanting LM2- 4 L U C + cells into the right inguinal mammary fat pads of 6- to 8-week-old female Severe Combined Immuno-Deficient mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many countries conduct fruit fly surveillance but, while there are guidelines, practices vary widely. This review of some countries in the Pacific region demonstrates the diversity of fruit fly surveillance practices. All utilize 3 parapheromones—trimedlure, cuelure, and methyl eugenol—to trap adult male fruit flies. Some target species are not attracted to these compounds so other attractants such as food-based lures are used in certain areas or circumstances. Lure loading and replacement cycles depend on the target species and the local climate. Malathion and dichlorvos (DDVP) are commonly used toxicants, but not in all countries, and other toxicants are being developed to replace these older-generation pesticides. Jackson and Lynfield are commonly used trap designs but newer designs such as cone and Biotrap are being adopted. Local factors such as chemical registrations and climate affect the choice of trap, lure, dispenser, toxicant, and bait concentration. These choices affect the efficacy of traps, in turn influencing optimal trap deployment in space and time. Most states now follow similar practices around trap inspection, servicing, and data handling, but these processes will be disrupted by emerging automated trap technologies. Ultimately, different practices can be attributed to the unique fruit fly risk profiles faced by each state, particularly the suite of fruit flies already present and those that threaten from nearby. Despite the diversity of approaches, international trade in fruit continues with the assurance that fruit fly surveillance practices evolve and improve according to each country's risk profile and incursion experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early-life exposure to natural and synthetic chemicals can impact acute and chronic health conditions. Here, a suspect screening workflow anchored on high-resolution mass spectrometry was applied to elucidate xenobiotics in breast milk and matching stool samples collected from Nigerian mother-infant pairs (n = 11) at three time points. Potential correlations between xenobiotic exposure and the developing gut microbiome, as determined by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, were subsequently explored. Overall, 12,192 and 16,461 features were acquired in the breast milk and stool samples, respectively. Following quality control and suspect screening, 562 and 864 features remained, respectively, with 149 of these features present in both matrices. Taking advantage of 242 authentic reference standards measured for confirmatory purposes of food bio-actives and toxicants, 34 features in breast milk and 68 features in stool were identified and semi-quantified. Moreover, 51 and 78 features were annotated with spectral library matching, as well as 416 and 652 by in silico fragmentation tools in breast milk and stool, respectively. The analytical workflow proved its versatility to simultaneously determine a diverse panel of chemical classes including mycotoxins, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), antibiotics, plasticizers, perfluorinated alkylated substances (PFAS), and pesticides, although it was originally optimized for polyphenols. Spearman rank correlation of the identified features revealed significant correlations between chemicals of the same classification such as polyphenols. One-way ANOVA and differential abundance analysis of the data obtained from stool samples revealed that molecules of plant-based origin elevated as complementary foods were introduced to the infants’ diets. Annotated compounds in the stool, such as tricetin, positively correlated with the genus Blautia. Moreover, vulgaxanthin negatively correlated with Escherichia-Shigella. Despite the limited sample size, this exploratory study provides high-quality exposure data of matched biospecimens obtained from mother-infant pairs in sub-Saharan Africa and shows potential correlations between the chemical exposome and the gut microbiome.

Human-biting ticks threaten public health in the United States. Registration by the Environmental Protection Agency of products to kill host-seeking ticks or repel ticks contacting humans is indicative of their safety and effectiveness. Unregulated minimum risk products, exempt from Environmental Protection Agency registration and often based on botanical oils, are proliferating in the marketplace, but there is concern about their effectiveness to kill and repel ticks. Evaluations of such products are limited in the published literature. A review showed considerable variability among minimum risk products to kill host-seeking blacklegged ticks, with effectiveness similar to chemical pesticide products for some minimum risk products but minimal impact on the ticks for other products. Evaluations of minimum risk tick repellents have typically focused on individual active ingredients rather than formulated products, which often combine multiple active ingredients. Consumers should be aware that effectiveness to kill and repel ticks can differ among unregulated minimum risk products.

The purpose of the research is to assess the condition of the black-backed sea shad (Alosa kessleri, Grimm, 1887) in the Lower Volga according to parasitological, microbiological, toxicological, and biochemical parameters, and to determine the correlation between the above during the spawning. Materials and methods. The research object was the black-backed sea shad caught with a river shore seine. Sampling for comprehensive studies was performed from 15 black-backed sea shads during the spawning migration in 2017. The fish were studied by the method of partial parasitological dissection (the protozoa class was not studied). The fish were collected and dissected, and cameral treatment was performed per Bykhovskaya-Pavlovskaya method. Microbiological studies were conducted by common methods. Species identification of identified helminths and microorganisms was performed according to standard identification guides. Toxicological studies included the determination of lead, cadmium, mercury, and petroleum hydrocarbons in the muscle tissue of the studied shad specimens by atomic absorption. In fish muscles, we studied the number of total lipids by the Zollner method, and water-soluble protein by the spectrometric Warburg-Christian method. The Fulton's condition factor was used for fatness determination. The obtained results were processed statistically. Results and discussion. The results of the comprehensive studies of commercial species of the black-backed sea shad (Alosa kessleri, Grimm, 1887) showed that the parasite fauna of fish was distinguished by a poor species composition as contracted with a qualitative microbiota biodiversity. Infection of the black-backed sea shad proceeded at the asymptomatic carrier level, which indicated a balanced relationship between parasites and the host. The levels of accumulated toxicants in shads were close to the characteristic values for fish in the Volga-Caspian basin. On average, the stock of energy resources in the studied fish had a positive trend in relation to the previous research period. The study results of the black-backed sea shad during the spawning showed the correlation of parasitological, microbiological, toxicological, and biochemical parameters that comprehensively affect the general physiological state of the studied fish.

Simple Summary: The European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) is a popular visitor in gardens and recreational areas all over Europe, but hedgehog populations are declining. Research exploring the causes of the decline, including exposure to potentially harmful pollutants and metals, may provide relevant information to improve conservation initiatives to protect this species in the wild. Hedgehogs are ground-dwelling mammals, feeding on a range of different food items such as insects, slugs, snails, and earthworms but also eggs, live vertebrates, and carrion, and therefore come into close contact with pollutants present in their habitats and in their prey. This review investigated published research on the occurrence of metals and pollutants in hedgehogs and found that a vast range of different pesticides; rodenticides; persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine compounds and brominated flame retardants (BFRs); as well as toxic heavy metals could be detected in samples from hedgehogs representing different European countries. Due to their ecology, combined with the opportunity to apply non-invasive sampling techniques through the collection of spines as sampling material, we suggest that the European hedgehog is a relevant bioindicator species for monitoring the exposure of omnivorous terrestrial wildlife to potential toxicants in urban and rural environments. Monitoring data from several European countries indicate that European hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus) populations are declining, and research exploring the causes of the decline, including exposure to potentially harmful xenobiotics and metals, may inform conservation initiatives to protect this species in the wild. Hedgehogs are ground-dwelling mammals, feeding on a range of insects, slugs, snails, and earthworms, as well as eggs, live vertebrates, and carrion, including carcasses of apex predator species representing higher levels of the food chain. Consequently, hedgehogs come into close contact with contaminants present in their habitats and prey. This review investigated the studies available on the subject of the occurrence of metals and organic xenobiotics in hedgehogs. This study found that a vast range of different pesticides; persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including organochlorine compounds and brominated flame retardants (BFRs); as well as toxic heavy metals could be detected. Some compounds occurred in lethal concentrations, and some were associated with a potential adverse effect on hedgehog health and survival. Due to their ecology, combined with the opportunity to apply non-invasive sampling techniques using spines as sampling material, we suggest that the European hedgehog is a relevant bioindicator species for monitoring the exposure of terrestrial wildlife to potential toxicants in urban and rural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since the 1970s, environmental health researchers have documented environmental pollution's impacts on human health, which includes the bioaccumulation of industrial chemicals and how these toxicants contribute to disease. However, the relationship between disease and pollution is often difficult to discern in the disease information provided by dominant institutions. Previous scholarship has identified that print media, television news, online medical publishers, and medical associations consistently obscure the environmental causation frame. However, less has been said about disease information provided by public health agencies. To address this gap, I analyzed the leukemia information provided by Cancer Australia, the United States' National Institutes of Health, and the United Kingdom's National Health Service. My analysis shows that the disease information offered by these health agencies also obscures the environmental causation frame by failing to identify most toxicants that environmental health researchers have linked to leukemia and by emphasizing a biomedical framing of the medical condition. Beyond documenting the problem, this article also discusses the social consequences and sources of the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit fly surveillance remains essential for international and domestic trade. The dry cuelure baited Lynfield trap has been the Australian standard since the early 1990s. Here, we tested the two versions of Biotraps against the Lynfield traps in the Riverina area of New South Wales. The Biotraps using a protein gel performed significantly better in trapping Island fly and female Queensland fruit fly. Also, Biotraps were assessed as at least equal to or superior to Lynfield traps for trapping male Queensland fruit fly. However, the number of Newman fly trapped exhibited no significant difference between the two trap types in both time periods A and B. We discuss differences in trap architecture, toxicants and lures between the two traps, along with benefits for storage and transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This overview discusses the role of imprinting in the development of an organism, and how exposure to environmental chemicals during fetal development leads to the physiological and biochemical changes that can have adverse lifelong effects on the health of the offspring. There has been a recent upsurge in the use of chemical products in everyday life. These chemicals include industrial byproducts, pesticides, dietary supplements, and pharmaceutical products. They mimic the natural estrogens and bind to estradiol receptors. Consequently, they reduce the number of receptors available for ligand binding. This leads to a faulty signaling in the neuroendocrine system during the critical developmental process of 'imprinting'. Imprinting causes structural and organizational differentiation in male and female reproductive organs, sexual behavior, bone mineral density, and the metabolism of exogenous and endogenous chemical substances. Several studies conducted on animal models and epidemiological studies provide profound evidence that altered imprinting causes various developmental and reproductive abnormalities and other diseases in humans. Altered metabolism can be measured by various endpoints such as the profile of cytochrome P-450 enzymes (CYP450's), xenobiotic metabolite levels, and DNA adducts. The importance of imprinting in the potentiation or attenuation of toxic chemicals is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tardigrades are renowned for their ability to enter the extremotolerant state of latent life known as cryptobiosis. While it is widely accepted that cryptobiosis can be induced by freezing (cryobiosis) and by desiccation (anhydrobiosis), the latter involving formation of a so-called tun, the exact mechanisms underlying the state--as well as the significance of other cryptobiosis inducing factors--remain ambiguous. Here, we focus on osmotic and chemical stress tolerance in the marine tidal tardigrade Echiniscoides sigismundi. We show that E. sigismundi enters the tun state following exposure to saturated seawater and upon exposure to locality seawater containing the mitochondrial uncoupler DNP. The latter experiments provide evidence of osmobiosis and chemobiosis, i.e., cryptobiosis induced by high levels of osmolytes and toxicants, respectively. A small decrease in survival was observed following simultaneous exposure to DNP and saturated seawater indicating that the tardigrades may not be entirely ametabolic while in the osmobiotic tun. The tardigrades easily handle exposure to ultrapure water, but hypo-osmotic shock impairs tun formation and when exposed to ultrapure water the tardigrades do not tolerate DNP, indicating that tolerance towards dilute solutions involves energy-consuming processes. We discuss our data in relation to earlier and more contemporary studies on cryptobiosis and we argue that osmobiosis should be defined as a state of cryptobiosis induced by high external osmotic pressure. Our investigation supports the hypothesis that the mechanisms underlying osmobiosis and anhydrobiosis are overlapping and that osmobiosis likely represents the evolutionary forerunner of cryptobiosis forms that involve body water deprivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to improve the control system of the biological stage of wastewater treatment using the quality control information system to support the concept of environmental efficiency management. In this case, the object of the study was the treatment facilities of Sumy city (Ukraine). For automatic control of wastewater quality, pH, oxidation reduction potential (ORP), electrical conductivity, and temperature indicators were taken, as well as hydrobiological analysis of activated sludge and mathematical modelling. The pH of wastewater at the input system has systematically unacceptable values (above 8.5 were recorded). Unacceptable concentrations of sulphur-containing toxicants arrive at the entrance of treatment facilities (0.22–1.3 mg/L). The response of activated sludge biocenosis to increasing concentrations of hydrogen sulphide in wastewater was analysed. Furthermore, a mathematical model of monoculture population growth, with two factors that affect population growth (nutrient concentration and monoculture production concentration), was implemented for the initial assessment of possible negative effects on wastewater treatment. The differential equation of the population dynamics of the i-th species of microorganisms in activated sludge was described. The applied system of automated monitoring of wastewater parameters with expert assessment of activated sludge and a unified mathematical model of approaches allows for a complex system of decision-making support to be realised. However, this requires the construction of mathematical models that would take into account the cause–effect relations that operate under conditions of incomplete technological information and the potential presence of emergencies due to natural disasters and military activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The destruction of civil and industrial objects in Ukraine caused by a decade-long armed conflict, especially since February 2022, has led to extensive environmental pollution within the country, particularly in the waterways of the Black Sea basin. The consequences of these actions have also affected the state of the Black Sea, causing concern for the European Union and the global scientific community. Therefore, within the framework of the European program «Horizon Europe», funds were allocated for scientific research into the consequences of pollution in coastal water bodies and the Black Sea as a whole. In the 2023 «Horizon Europe» project competition, a proposal by an intergovernmental consortium of 7 scientific organizations from 5 countries was awarded the grant, including the State Institution «Scientific Hydrophysical Center of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine». The project aims to create effective monitoring and quality control strategies for water, as well as the implementation of innovative technologies to reduce the impact of pollutants on the ecosystems of the Black Sea. The application of research results is planned for the development of environmentally sound recommendations and strategies for the conservation of the marine environment. The project involves collaboration between countries to address pollution issues and study the Black Sea, as well as the development of scientific approaches to water resource management in the region. Special attention is given to the development of educational programs regarding the impact of military pollution on the water ecosystems of the Black Sea region. This article describes the localization, factors, and types of pollution in waterways and the Black Sea basin, the project’s structure, types of activities, and the investigated water bodies in Ukraine, as well as the participation of SI «Scientific Hydrophysical Center of NAS of Ukraine» as a project participant.

Fertility hormones are instrumental in sexuality and fertility. Environmental toxicants have been proven to exert detrimental effects on ovaries causing various reproductive problems hence the research goal. The research aimed to evaluate fertility hormones and biochemical stress initiated by toxicant in diet prepared with fish smoked with polyethylene (plastic) materials as a fuel source. Twenty female Wistar rats were grouped into four of five rats each: A received 100% rat pellets only, B received 60% pellets + 40% fish smoked with polyethylene materials, C was given 50% pellets + 40% fish smoked with polyethylene + 10% clove seeds, and D was given 50% pellets + 40% fish smoked with polyethylene + 5% Vit. E (1000 IU) + 5% clove seeds. Feeding took 30 days. Hormonal and biochemical indices were analyzed. Numerous phytoconstituents of the clove seeds were revealed. The significant (p > 0.05) reduction of progesterone level, luteinizing hormone, estradiol, and follicle-stimulating hormone and in groups B, C, and D as against the normal control group. Total protein concentration decreased in a similar manner. Cholesterol increased in all the test groups against group 1. Increased triacylglycerol level in groups B and C against group A was recorded. Inversely, a reduction of TG in group D was observed when compared with groups A, B, and C. Low-density lipoprotein level was high across groups maintained with the diets with reference to control. High-density lipoprotein level decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in the test groups in reference to normal. Variation in MDA levels was observed in test groups against control. It can be concluded that toxicants imposed stress on fertility hormones, and some biochemical markers were determined. Clove seed and vitamin E can reduce the polarization effect of the toxicants from polyethylene materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The carcinogenic effect of arsenic (As) has been documented in lung, bladder and skin cancers but remains unclear for digestive cancers, although metabolic pathways of As and recent data suggest that it may be an important determinant in these malignancies as well. Objective This study aimed to systematically review the available literature investigating the potential association between As and digestive cancers. Methods An extensive search was conducted in Medline Ovid SP, Cochrane, PubMed, Embase.com, Cochrane Library Wiley, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Studies providing original data in humans, with As measurement and analysis of association with digestive cancers including esogastric cancers (esophagus and stomach), hepato-pancreatico-biliary (HPB) cancers (including biliary tract, liver and pancreas) and colorectal cancers were eligible. Results A total of 35 studies were identified, 17 ecological, 13 case–control and 5 cohort studies. Associations between As and digestive cancers were reported for both risks of incidence and cancer-related mortality. Overall, 43% (3/7) and 48% (10/21) studies highlighted an association between As and the incidence or the mortality of digestive cancers, respectively. Conclusions A substantial proportion of studies exploring the potential link between As and digestive cancers suggested an association, particularly in HPB malignancies. These findings emphasize the need to further investigate this topic with dedicated and high-quality studies, as it may have an important impact, including for prevention strategies.

Context Humans are now exposed to a multitude of chemicals throughout the life course, some of which may affect growth and development owing to their endocrine-like activity. Objective To assess the relationship of suspect toxicants to maturation, specifically to age at menarche. Methods We conducted two systematic reviews of age at menarche and PFOA, PFOS, PCBs and DDE/DDT based on publications indexed by pubmed. Results 16 unique reports were identified. Most studies of PFOA and PFOS reported either no association or delays in the age at menarche; only one reported an earlier age. Studies of DDT and DDE were more mixed. Reports on PCBs varied by PCB congener group with an equal number of them reporting delays and no association but one an acceleration. Sources of variation in results include the timing of exposure assessment (prenatal vs. postnatal), level of the toxicant, and sample size. No obvious pattern to the variation in results could be tied to those sources of variation. Conclusion The absence of consistent evidence from multiple reports of earlier age at menarche suggests that these toxicants may not be responsible for accelerated sexual maturation in girls. However, human populations naturally vary in the variety and levels of exposure, making the comparison of studies difficult. Further, studies vary in methodology, complicating aggregation of results and generalisations.

Tardigrades are renowned for their ability to enter the extremotolerant state of latent life known as cryptobiosis. While it is widely accepted that cryptobiosis can be induced by freezing (cryobiosis) and by desiccation (anhydrobiosis), the latter involving formation of a so-called tun, the exact mechanisms underlying the state—as well as the significance of other cryptobiosis inducing factors—remain ambiguous. Here, we focus on osmotic and chemical stress tolerance in the marine tidal tardigrade Echiniscoides sigismundi. We show that E. sigismundi enters the tun state following exposure to saturated seawater and upon exposure to locality seawater containing the mitochondrial uncoupler DNP. The latter experiments provide evidence of osmobiosis and chemobiosis, i.e., cryptobiosis induced by high levels of osmolytes and toxicants, respectively. A small decrease in survival was observed following simultaneous exposure to DNP and saturated seawater indicating that the tardigrades may not be entirely ametabolic while in the osmobiotic tun. The tardigrades easily handle exposure to ultrapure water, but hypo-osmotic shock impairs tun formation and when exposed to ultrapure water the tardigrades do not tolerate DNP, indicating that tolerance towards dilute solutions involves energy-consuming processes. We discuss our data in relation to earlier and more contemporary studies on cryptobiosis and we argue that osmobiosis should be defined as a state of cryptobiosis induced by high external osmotic pressure. Our investigation supports the hypothesis that the mechanisms underlying osmobiosis and anhydrobiosis are overlapping and that osmobiosis likely represents the evolutionary forerunner of cryptobiosis forms that involve body water deprivation.