Metal Impurities in Food and Drugs

The Protective Effects of Ganoderma lucidum Active Peptide GLP4 on Lung Injury Induced by Cadmium Poisoning in Mice

Ganoderma triterpenes and spore powder have shown promising results in mitigating cadmium-induced renal and hepatic injuries. Ganoderma lucidum active peptide GLP4 is a natural protein with dual antioxidant activities derived from the mycelium of Ganoderma lucidum. However, its efficacy in alleviating cadmium-induced lung injury remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of GLP4 against cadmium-induced lung injury in mice. Mice were exposed to cadmium chloride via nebulization to induce lung injury. The protective effect of GLP4 was assessed by measuring the total cell count in BALF, levels of inflammatory cytokines, and the expression of NLRP3 in lung tissues a through histopathological examination of lung tissue changes. The results showed that GLP4 significantly mitigated histopathological damage in lung tissues, decreased the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, and reduced the expression of NLRP3, which was elevated in cadmium-exposed mice. In vitro studies further revealed that GLP4 inhibited the cadmium-induced activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome. Notably, acute cadmium exposure by the respiratory tract did not affect the liver and kidneys of the mice. The findings suggest that GLP4 reduces cadmium-induced lung injury in mice by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, which provides a theoretical foundation for using Ganoderma lucidum as a preventive and therapeutic agent against cadmium poisoning.

Molybdenum Concentration and the Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Birth: A Nested Case-Control Study - Beijing Municipality, China, 2018-2020

What is already known about this topic?

The level of molybdenum (Mo) in a mother's urine has been linked to the growth rate of the fetus and the blood pressure levels in children.

What is added by this report?

We evaluated the variations in maternal plasma Mo concentrations throughout pregnancy and their potential association with the risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPB).

What are the implications for public health practice?

Future research must determine the Mo levels in pregnant women across various regions in China. Moreover, particular attention needs to be given to the potential increase in Mo concentration throughout pregnancy and its possible adverse impacts on the health of both the mother and the fetus.

Multicomponent synthesis via acceptorless alcohol dehydrogenation: an easy access to tri-substituted pyridines

Herein, we report palladium supported on a hydroxyapatite catalyst for synthesizing tri-substituted pyridines using ammonium acetate as the nitrogen source via acceptorless alcohol dehydrogenation strategy. The strategy offers a broad substrate scope using inexpensive and readily available alcohols as the starting material. The catalyst was prepared using a simple method and analyzed by several techniques, including FE-SEM, EDS, HR-TEM, BET, XRD, FT-IR, UV-visible spectroscopy, and XPS, demonstrating the anchoring of Pd nanoparticles on hydroxyapatite in the zero oxidation state. Moreover, several controlled experiments were carried out to understand the reaction pathway and a suitable mechanism has been proposed.

Cu(II) salts as terminal oxidants in visible-light photochemical oxidation reactions

Photochemistry provides an important platform for the discovery of synthetically useful transformations. The development of new oxidative photoreactions, however, has proven to be relatively challenging. The importance of the identity of the terminal oxidant has been an underappreciated consideration in the design of these reactions. Many of the most common terminal oxidants used in ground-state catalytic methods are poorly compatible with the one-electron oxidation state changes characteristic of photoredox reactions and result in hard-to-control deleterious side reactions. As an alternative, Cu(II) salts have emerged as versatile terminal oxidants in photochemical oxidation reactions that are terrestrially abundant, cost-effective, and readily compatible with one-electron oxidation state changes. This review highlights recent reaction methods that leverage Cu(II) oxidation in combination with the photochemical activation of substrates or that use Cu(II) salts as both the active chromophore and terminal oxidant.

Oxidation of polysorbates - An underestimated degradation pathway?

To ensure the stability of biologicals over their entire shelf-life, non-ionic surface-active compounds (surfactants) are added to protect biologics from denaturation and particle formation. In this context, polysorbate 20 and 80 are the most used detergents. Despite their benefits of low toxicity and high biocompatibility, specific factors are influencing the intrinsic stability of polysorbates, leading to degradation, loss in efficacy, or even particle formation. Polysorbate degradation can be categorized into chemical or enzymatic hydrolysis and oxidation. Under pharmaceutical relevant conditions, hydrolysis is commonly originated from host cell proteins, whereas oxidative degradation may be caused by multiple factors such as light, presence of residual metal traces, peroxides, or temperature, which can be introduced upon manufacturing or could be already present in the raw materials. In this review, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on polysorbates with a focus on oxidative degradation. Subsequently, degradation products and key characteristics of oxidative-mediated polysorbate degradation in respect of different types and grades are summarized, followed by an extensive comparison between polysorbate 20 and 80. A better understanding of the radical-induced oxidative PS degradation pathway could support specific mitigation strategies. Finally, buffer conditions, various stressors, as well as appropriate mitigation strategies, reagents, and alternative stabilizers are discussed. Prior manufacturing, careful consideration and a meticulous risk-benefit analysis are highly recommended in terms of polysorbate qualities, buffers, storage conditions, as well as mitigation strategies.

ICP-MS assessment of elemental impurities and metallic contaminants in activated charcoal products

Activated charcoal is an adsorbent material which is consumed as a dietary supplement (100 mg) and as non-specific antidote treatment in acute poisoning at 0.5-1 g kg-1 body weight in infants and 50 g in adults. The ingestion of large quantities of it has aroused our interest in the presence of metals impurities. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess trace elements in activated charcoal products. Multielement analysis were performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry after digestion. Estimated daily Intake was calculated and compared to references doses for each element. Varying trace elements have been found: chromium (0.3383 ± 0.089 µg g-1), cadmium (0.5991 ± 0.2967 µg g-1), aluminum (0.7033 ± 0.1215 µg g-1), nickel (0.0111 ± 0.003 µg g-1), lead (0.0052 ± 0.0021 µg g-1), zinc (0.0414 ± 0.0076 µg g-1), and manganese (0.0036 ± 0.0006 µg g-1). when 50 g of activated charcoal is consumed by a 70 kg adult, aluminum estimated daily intake is 0.0005 mg/kg bw/day which exceeds the reference dose (0.0004 mg/kg bw/day). In the infants, consumption of 15 g of contaminated activated charcoal exposes to chromium, cadmium and aluminum as their estimated daily intake (0.00034; 0.0006; 0.0007 mg/kg bw/day respectively) exceed their reference doses (0.0003; 0.0005; 0.0004 mg/kg bw/day respectively). These trace elements are not without risk to consumers health. Activated charcoal products could be contaminated with elemental impurities. Pharmaceutical industries should be vigilant to raw materials (plants and wood) used in the preparation, these materials should come from unpolluted areas to avoid contaminations.

Potential effect of luteolin, epiafzelechin, and albigenin on rats under cadmium-induced inflammatory insult: In silico and in vivo approach

Introduction: Cadmium(Cd) an industrial poison present abundantly in the environment, causes human toxicity by an inflammatory process. Chronic exposure of cadmium can cause a number of molecular lesions that could be relevant to oncogenesis, through indirect or epigenetic mechanisms, potentially including abnormal activation of oncogenes and suppression of apoptosis by depletion of antioxidants. As induction of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 is linked to inflammatory processes, use of luteolin, epiafzelechin, and albigenin alone or in different combinations may be used as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents. Methods: We, herein, performed in silico experiments to check the binding affinity of phytochemicals and their therapeutic effect against COX-2 in cadmium administered rats. Wistar albino rats were given phytochemicals in different combinations to check their anti-inflammatory activities against cadmium intoxication. The level of alanine aminotransferases (ALT), 4-hydroxynonenal (4HNE), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), isoprostanes (IsoP-2α), COX-2, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were estimated with their respective ELISA and spectrophotometric methods. Results: The generated results show that phytocompounds possessed good binding energy potential against COX-2, and common interactive behavior was observed in all docking studies. Moreover, the level of ALT, 4HNE, 8-OHdG, TNF-α, IsoP-2α, malondialdehyde, and COX-2 were significantly increased in rats with induced toxicity compared to the control group, whereas in combinational therapy of phytocompounds, the levels were significantly decreased in the group. Discussion: Taken together, luteolin, epiafzelechin, and albigenin can be used as anti-inflammatory therapeutic agents for future novel drug design, and thus it may have therapeutic importance against cadmium toxicity.

Betaine protects against sodium arsenite-induced diabetes and hepatotoxicity in mice

Epidemiological evidence has associated chronic exposure to inorganic arsenic with an increased occurrence of glucose intolerance and diabetes mellitus. Furthermore, inorganic arsenic induces oxidative stress in organs such as the liver. Betaine, as a methyl donor, plays a pivotal role in homocysteine metabolism. Betaine has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of betaine against sodium arsenite-induced diabetes and hepatotoxicity in mice. Forty-eight male mice were divided into 6 groups of 8. Group 1, received distilled water every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Group 2 received 500 mg/kg betaine every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Group 3 was given 10 mg/kg NaAsO₂ every day for 4 weeks by gavage. Groups 4, 5, and 6 were co-treated with 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg betaine half an hour before NaAsO₂ (10 mg/kg), respectively, daily for up to 4 weeks by gavage. After 28 days of the study, the mice were fasted overnight and on day 29, fasting blood glucose was measured and glucose tolerance test was performed. On day 30, the mice were anesthetized and a blood sample was taken from the heart. Serum factors (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase activities), oxidative stress factors (malondialdehyde and glutathione levels, and the activity of superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase enzymes) and hepatic inflammatory factors (nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor α) were measured. Histopathological studies were also performed on the liver and pancreas. In this study, it was shown that arsenic causes glucose intolerance, and oxidative/inflammatory hepatic damage. Co-administration of betaine prevents hepatotoxicity and glucose intolerance induced by arsenic in mice. Co-treatment of betaine with arsenic improved glucose intolerance and protected the liver against arsenic induced-oxidative damage and inflammation. Betaine at the dose of 500 mg/kg showed better results than the other doses. Accordingly, betaine can be suggested as a therapeutic agent against diabetogenic and hepatotoxic effects of arsenic.

Mutagenic, Carcinogenic, and Teratogenic Effect of Heavy Metals

Heavy metal (HM)-induced toxicity and its associated complications have become a major issue in the medical world. HMs are not biodegradable, enter into the food chain, and gets accumulated in the living systems. Increased concentrations and accumulation of HMs can cause severely damaging effects and severe complications in living organisms and can even lead to the death of the organism. In Ayurvedic medicine, ingredients of natural origin, including whole plants or certain portions of the plant, animal sources, and minerals, are used for therapeutic purposes as medicine, both alone and in combination. HM such as cadmium, copper, zinc, lead, chromium, nickel, and arsenic cause hazardous effects on animals, human health, and the environment. This review focuses on mutagenic, carcinogenic, and teratogenic effects of HM , mechanism, organ toxicity, available remedies in the market, and their side effects. Also, emphasis is given to alternative systems of medicine to treat HM toxicity.

A General Electro-Synthesis Approach to Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids

Amaryllidaceae alkaloids appeal to organic chemists with their attractive structures and their impressive antitumor and acetylcholinesterase inhibitory properties. We demonstrate a highly versatile access to this family of natural products. A general protocol with high yields in a sustainable electro-organic key transformation on a metal-free anode to spirodienones facilitates functionalization to the alkaloids. The biomimetic syntheses start with the readily available, inexpensive biogenic starting materials methyl gallate, O-methyl tyramine, and vanillin derivatives. Through known dynamic resolutions, this technology provides access to both enantiomeric series of (epi-)martidine, (epi-)crinine, siculine, and galantamine, clinically prescribed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Lead, mercury, and cadmium levels in breast milk and infant hair in the late period of lactation in Ankara, Turkey

Lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd) have known harmful effects on children's well-being. The object of this study was to measure the levels of heavy metals (Pb, Hg, and Cd) in breast milk and infant hair, connected environmental factors, and the impact on infant growth and development at 8 months. Seventy-four breast milk samples and 46 infant hair samples were analyzed. Cd, Pb, and Hg were detected in 99%, 91%, and 87% of breast milk samples, respectively. Cd levels were higher in the hair of infants in extended families, living in older houses and when there was a maternal history of anemia and postpartum anemia. Hg levels in breast milk were higher in Denver II suspicious/abnormal infants than in Denver II normal infants. Further biomonitoring studies and preventive measures should be conducted to minimize exposure to toxic metals in early childhood period.

Para-Fluorination of Anilides Using Electrochemically Generated Hypervalent Iodoarenes

The para-selective fluorination reaction of anilides using electrochemically generated hypervalent ArIF2 is reported, with Et3 N ⋅ 5HF serving as fluoride source and as supporting electrolyte. This electrochemical reaction is characterized by a simple set-up, easy scalability and affords a broad variety of fluorinated anilides from easily accessible anilides in good yields up to 86 %.

Beyond Kolbe and Hofer-Moest: Electrochemical Synthesis of Carboxylic Anhydrides from Carboxylic Acids

Herein we report a conceptually new non-decarboxylative electrolysis of carboxylic acids to obtain their corresponding anhydrides as highly valuable reagents in organic synthesis. All carbon atoms of the starting material are preserved in the product in an overall redox-neutral reaction. In a broad substrate scope of carboxylic acids the anhydrides are generated with high selectivity, which demonstrates the versatility of the developed method. Beneficially, no dehydrating reagents are required in comparison to conventional methods and the synthesis is based on uncritical starting materials using graphite and stainless steel as very inexpensive and eco-friendly electrode materials.

Allocolchicines─Synthesis with Electro-organic Key Transformations

The naturally occurring colchicine and allocolchicines in the meadow saffron are potentially active ingredients for cancer therapy. A concise protocol for the sustainable synthesis of allocolchicines using up to two electro-organic key transformations is demonstrated. This straightforward synthesis of N-acetylcolchinol methyl ether in a five-step protocol was adopted using protecting groups to enable access to N-acetylcolchinol and the phosphate derivative ZD6126.

Blue Light-Promoted Cross-Coupling of α-Diazo Esters with Isocyanides: Synthesis of Ester-Functionalized Ketenimines

A metal-free scalable synthesis of functionalized ketenimines from alkyl α-(aryl/heteroaryl)-α-diazoacetates and alkyl isocyanides induced by blue light irradiation has been developed. The reaction proceeds at room temperature without any photocatalyst and provides ketenimines in moderate to good yields. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and the experimental study showed that aryl(alkoxycarbonyl)carbenes in both singlet and triplet states can react with isocyanides but only the reaction of the former leads to the smooth formation of ketenimines. The obtained ketenimines were used for the synthesis of functionalized amidines under mild metal-free conditions.

Exposure to metal mixture and growth indicators at 4-5 years. A study in the INMA-Asturias cohort

BACKGROUND

Exposure to toxic and non-toxic metals impacts childhood growth and development, but limited data exists on exposure to metal mixtures. Here, we investigated the effects of exposure to individual metals and a mixture of barium, cadmium, cobalt, lead, molybdenum, zinc, and arsenic on growth indicators in children 4-5 years of age.

METHODS

We used urine metal concentrations as biomarkers of exposure in 328 children enrolled in the Spanish INMA-Asturias cohort. Anthropometric measurements (arm, head, and waist circumferences, standing height, and body mass index) and parental sociodemographic variables were collected through face-to-face interviews by trained study staff. Linear regressions were used to estimate the independent effects and were adjusted for each metal in the mixture. We applied Bayesian kernel machine regression to examine non-linear associations and potential interactions.

RESULTS

In linear regression, urinary levels of cadmium were associated with reduced arm circumference (β_adjusted = -0.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.73, -0.15), waist circumference (β_adjusted = -1.29, 95% CI: -2.10, -0.48), and standing height (β_adjusted = -1.09, 95% CI: -1.82, -0.35). Lead and cobalt concentrations were associated with reduced standing height (β_adjusted = -0.64, 95% CI: -1.20, -0.07) and smaller head circumference (β_adjusted = -0.29, 95% CI: -0.49, -0.09), respectively. However, molybdenum was positively associated with head circumference (β_adjusted = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.43). BKMR analyses showed strong linear negative associations of cadmium with arm and head circumference and standing height. BKMR analyses also found lead and cobalt in the metal mixture were related to reduce standing height and head circumference, and consistently found molybdenum was related to increased head circumference.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that exposure to metal mixtures impacts growth indicators in children.

Metallic Impurities in Pharmaceuticals: An Overview

Backgroun:

Metallic impurities are the traces of metals that can be found in finished drug products.

Description:

These metallic impurities in pharmaceutical preparations can enter from formulation ingredients, catalysts, and process equipment, containers and closures. They are not completely removed from the product by practical manufacturing techniques and should be evaluated relative to safetybased limits. They can affect drug efficacy or produce direct toxic effect on the patient.

Methods:

In this paper, an attempt has been made to review these metallic impurities including potential sources and analytical procedures to quantify these impurities. ICH guideline on these impurities and measures to control impurities has also been discussed in the paper.

Results:

The implementation of ICH Q3D guideline with the quality risk assessment approach is an important milestone to harmonize control of elements worldwide.

Conclusion:

This approach allows manufacturers to provide vital information about the contribution of impurities in the drug product.

Reproducibility in Electroorganic Synthesis-Myths and Misunderstandings

The use of electric current as a traceless activator and reagent is experiencing a renaissance. This sustainable synthetic method is evolving into a hot topic in contemporary organic chemistry. Since researchers with various scientific backgrounds are entering this interdisciplinary field, different parameters and methods are reported to describe the experiments. The variation in the reported parameters can lead to problems with the reproducibility of the reported electroorganic syntheses. As an example, parameters such as current density or electrode distance are in some cases more significant than often anticipated. This Minireview provides guidelines on reporting electrosynthetic data and dispels myths about this technique, thereby streamlining the experimental parameters to facilitate reproducibility.

The Roles of Oxidative Stress in Regulating Autophagy in Methylmercury-induced Neurotoxicity

Methylmercury (MeHg) is a potential neurotoxin that is highly toxic to the human central nervous system. Although MeHg neurotoxicity has been widely studied, the mechanism of MeHg neurotoxicity has not yet been fully elucidated. Some research evidence suggests that oxidative stress and autophagy are important molecular mechanisms of MeHg-induced neurotoxicity. Researchers have widely accepted that oxidative stress regulates the autophagy pathway. The current study reviews the activation of Nuclear factor-erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2)-related oxidative stress pathways and autophagy signaling pathways in the case of MeHg neurotoxicity. In addition, autophagy mainly plays a role in the neurotoxicity of MeHg through mTOR-dependent and mTOR-independent autophagy signaling pathways. Finally, the regulation of autophagy by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Nrf2 in MeHg neurotoxicity was explored in this review, providing a new concept for the study of the neurotoxicity mechanism of MeHg.

Multielement Determination in Medicinal Plants and Herbal Medicines Containing Cynara scolymus L., Harpagophytum procumbens D.C., and Maytenus ilifolia (Mart.) ex Reiss from Brazil Using ICP OES

Worldwide, medicinal plants and herbal medicines are widely consumed. The aim of this study was to determine macro- (Ca, K, Mg, Na, and P) and microelements (Al, As, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Sb, Se, Si, Sn, Sr, V, and Zn) in medicinal plants and herbal medicines: "globe artichoke" - Cynara scolymus L., "devil's claw" - Harpagophytum procumbens D.C., and "espinheira santa" - Maytenus ilifolia (Mart) ex Reiss. Concentrations of 24 (essential and toxic potentially) elements in samples from Brazil were determined using a sequential optical emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP OES) after acid digestion, assisted by microwave radiation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were used to carry out an exploratory analysis of samples. The elements were quantified (in μg/g): Al (20.24-1261.64), Ba (18.90-63.18), Ca (2877.6-19,957.40), Cr (0.28-1.38), Cu (4.16-21.99), Fe (8.54-627.49), K (1786.12-32,297.19), Mg (505.82-6174.52), Mn (0.40-205.64), Na (1717.23-18,596.45), Ni (< LoQ-0.99), P (35.12-2899.91), Se (1.52-3.71), Sn (1.53-12.43), Sr (52.33-84.31), V (< LoQ-0.24), and Zn (2.60-30.56). As, Cd, Co, Mo, Pb, and Sb, in all the investigated samples, were found to be below the limit of detection (LoD) and quantification (LoQ) values of ICP OES. These medicinal plants and herbal medicines can be sources of Ca, K, Mg, Na, P, Cu, Fe, Mn, Se, and Zn. All samples showed considerable levels of Al. PCA and HCA showed that the samples separated into two large groups.

Partial protective effects of melatonin on cadmium-induced changes in hematological characteristics in rats

We investigated the effects of melatonin (Mlt) on hematological characteristics to determine the percentage of alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE) positive lymphocytes in rats chronically exposed to cadmium (Cd). We used four groups of male rats: control (C), melatonin (Mlt), cadmium (Cd) and Cd + Mlt (CdMlt). Blood samples were obtained to assess the erythrocytes (RBC), leukocytes (WBC), platelets (PLT), hemoglobin (HGB), hematocrit (HCT), mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) as well as alpha-naphthyl acetate esterase (ANAE) positive lymphocytes. We found that the number of WBC increased in the Cd group compared to the other three experimental groups. Low MCV and MCHC values caused by Cd were ameliorated by Mlt treatment in the CdMlt group. We found no significant change in the RBC, HGB, MCH, PLT and HCT values among the experimental groups. Mlt treatment also increased the percentage of ANAE positive lymphocytes. Mlt partially protects some hematological characteristics in cases of chronic Cd toxicity.

Neurobehavioral and immune-toxic impairments induced by organic methyl mercury dietary exposure in Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus

Although substantial knowledge of mercury toxicity in fish has been assembled; until now, studies investigating the toxic impacts in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) following dietary exposure to organic methyl mercury (MeHg) are less prolific. Accordingly, the current study aimed to evaluate the impacts of MeHg on neurobehavioral and immune integrity in Nile tilapia after dietary exposure. Two hundred and twenty-five juvenile Nile tilapia (19.99 ± 0.33 g) were allocated into five groups in triplicates (15 fish/replicate). G1, G2, G3, G4, and G5. O. niloticus were fed corresponding basal diets containing 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 mg/kg diet MeHg chloride (MeHgCl) daily for 30 days, zero value represented the control G1 group. The results showed that MeHg induced significant alterations in O. niloticus behavior, the swimming behavior was significantly decreased, while scratching, biting, and fin tugging behaviors were significantly augmented. Moreover; chasing, mouth pushing, and butting behaviors were significantly increased in all the exposed groups. MeHg significantly decreased brain acetylcholine esterase (AChE) and serum immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels in all the exposed groups. Meanwhile, serum levels of lysozyme (LYZ), nitric oxide (NO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO), and 8 hydroxy 2 deoxyguanosine (8OH2dG) were significantly elevated in all the exposed groups except for serum reduced glutathione (GSH) content was significantly decreased implying oxidative stress (OS), lipid peroxidation (LPO), protein, DNA damage and impaired immune response of the exposed tilapia. MeHg significantly altered transcriptional expression of immune-related genes including (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-8, and IL-10) in all the exposed groups. From the obtained outcomes, the present research is the premier to investigate that dietary MeHg exposure in O. niloticus significantly induced neurobehavioral and immune defense impairments in a dose-related manner. This study exhibits that dietary MeHg may pose a potential threat to the O. niloticus populations.

Examination of metallic impurities of 68Ge/68Ga generators used for radioactive labeling of peptides in clinical PET applications

BACKGROUND/AIM

Especially suitable for PET due to its nuclear physical and radiochemical properties, the positron emitter Gallium-68 (Ga) occurs by electron capture from Germanium-68 (Ge). In such a radionuclide generator, the germanium is bound to an insoluble, inert column matrix and forms a secular radioactive balance with 68Ga obtained in the hour. As a result of the limited radiochemical selectivity of the elution process, the eluate obtained is basically contaminated with the main nuclide traces, so that the eluate becomes a mixture of Ga and Ge radionuclides. Also, the generator eluate contains a number to metal cations that reduce specific radioactivity and can compete with 68Ga. The presence of toxic metal that can be found in the eluate carries the risks of contamination at every step from the production of generators to radiopharmaceutical production.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

In our study, by collecting the eluate of the Ge/Ga generators used with different identities in different centers in Turkey, we report comparative analysis of metal contamination in the generator eluate. The eluates of 68Ge/68Ga generators to five different identities were collected. Eluates were analyzed by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

As a result, each generator contains metallic impurities different from its certificate.

Functionalized magnetic PAMAM dendrimer as an efficient nanocatalyst for a new synthetic strategy of xanthene pigments

A green protocol has been developed for preparation of the wide variety of colored xanthene derivatives using a new efficient magnetic solid acid catalyst bearing polyamidoamine dendrimer moiety as a nanoscopic compound. Dendrimers, highly symmetric molecules around a core and 3D spherical morphology, show interesting traits based on their functionalized groups on the branched surface. They can be designed to provide water soluble structures or pseudo-active sites of biomolecules. The catalyst was assembled via a polyamidoamine dendrimer immobilized on the surface of γ-Fe₂O₃ followed by the sulfonylation of the amine groups by chlorosulfonic acid resulting in γ-Fe₂O₃@PAMAM-SO₃H. Herein, PAMAM dendrimer with repeating amine/amide branches as catchable sites of sulfonic acid groups was introduced as transformer of homogeneous to heterogeneous acidic catalysts. The physicochemical properties of synthesized catalyst were studied using by FT-IR, FE-SEM, XRD, VSM, EDS, TGA/DTG, and TEM. Finally, the catalytic activity of γ-Fe₂O₃@PAMAM-SO₃H was evaluated for the preparation of xanthene derivatives via a one-pot, three components reaction of aromatic aldehydes with i) β-naphthol, ii) cyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl, iii) β-naphthol and cyclic 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, iv) 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone, leading to the eco-riendly preparation of the target compounds in good to excellent yields. The catalyst could be easily recycled for at least five consecutive runs without significant loss in its catalytic activity.

Epigenetic influence of environmentally neurotoxic metals

Continuous globalization and industrialization have ensured metals are an increasing aspect of daily life. Their usefulness in manufacturing has made them vital to national commerce, security and global economy. However, excess exposure to metals, particularly as a result of environmental contamination or occupational exposures, has been detrimental to overall health. Excess exposure to several metals is considered environmental risk in the aetiology of several neurological and neurodegenerative diseases. Metal-induced neurotoxicity has been a major health concern globally with intensive research to unravel the mechanisms associated with it. Recently, greater focus has been directed at epigenetics to better characterize the underlying mechanisms of metal-induced neurotoxicity. Epigenetic changes are those modifications on the DNA that can turn genes on or off without altering the DNA sequence. This review discusses how epigenetic changes such as DNA methylation, post translational histone modification and noncoding RNA-mediated gene silencing mediate the neurotoxic effects of several metals, focusing on manganese, arsenic, nickel, cadmium, lead, and mercury.

Electro-organic synthesis - a 21st century technique

The severe limitations of fossil fuels and finite resources influence the scientific community to reconsider chemical synthesis and establish sustainable techniques. Several promising methods have emerged, and electro-organic conversion has attracted particular attention from international academia and industry as an environmentally benign and cost-effective technique. The easy application, precise control, and safe conversion of substrates with intermediates only accessible by this method reveal novel pathways in synthetic organic chemistry. The popularity of electricity as a reagent is accompanied by the feasible conversion of bio-based feedstocks to limit the carbon footprint. Several milestones have been achieved in electro-organic conversion at rapid frequency, which have opened up various perspectives for forthcoming processes.

The "Green" Electrochemical Synthesis of Periodate

High-grade periodate is relatively expensive, but is required for many sensitive applications such as the synthesis of active pharmaceutical ingredients. These high costs originate from using lead dioxide anodes in contemporary electrochemical methods and from expensive starting materials. A direct and cost-efficient electrochemical synthesis of periodate from iodide, which is less costly and relies on a readily available starting material, is reported. The oxidation is conducted at boron-doped diamond anodes, which are durable, metal-free, and nontoxic. The avoidance of lead dioxide ultimately lowers the cost of purification and quality assurance. The electrolytic process was optimized by statistical methods and was scaled up in an electrolysis flow cell that enhanced the space-time yields by a cyclization protocol. An LC-PDA analytical protocol was established enabling simple quantification of iodide, iodate, and periodate simultaneously with remarkable precision.

Palladium Nanoparticle-Catalyzed Stereoselective Domino Synthesis of 3-Allylidene-2(3H)-oxindoles and 3-Allylidene-2(3H)-benzofuranones

A single-step, stereoselective protocol for the synthesis of unsymmetrically substituted (E)-3-allylideneoxindole and (E)-3-allylidenebenzofuran from readily accessible starting materials using palladium binaphthyl nanoparticles (Pd-BNPs) has been developed. Pd-BNP showing a wide range of functional group tolerance and an immense array of substrate scope have been explored with the successful synthesis of the drug molecule "tubulin polymerization inhibitor" free from trace metal impurities. The model reaction is extended to a gram-scale synthesis, and one of the products is utilized for derivatization. The Pd-BNP has been recycled up to 5 catalytic cycles without any loss in reaction yields and particle size of nanoparticles.

Rational design to biologics development: The polysorbates point of view

Formulation development is an essential part of any biopharmaceuticals development programme, and this will affect quality, safety and efficacy of the final drug product. The vast majority of biopharmaceuticals on the market are therapeutic proteins; however, these are less stable compared to conventional pharmaceuticals. To counter aggregation, denaturation and surface adsorption of proteins in solution, surfactants are added to the formulations; however, the choice of the best formulation is a challenge that is faced during formulation development. Polysorbates are the most widely used surfactants in the pharmaceutical industry and are presented in >80% of commercial monoclonal antibody formulations. In this review, we provide a general overview of polysorbates and their issues, and the characteristics that have to be taken into account during formulation development. Degradation of polysorbates, namely by hydrolysis and/or oxidation, is one of the main concerns associated with their use. Furthermore, degradation of polysorbates is determined by formulation composition, pH and storage conditions, therefore underlining the importance and complexity of protein formulation development using polysorbates. A need-based approach should be used for correct selection of excipients in protein formulations that contain polysorbates.

Associations of plasma metal concentrations with the decline in kidney function: A longitudinal study of Chinese adults

Metals are widespread pollutants in the environment which have been reported to be associated with kidney dysfunction in many existing epidemiological studies. However, most of the studies are cross-sectional design and mainly focus on several toxic metals including arsenic, lead and cadmium. Therefore, we conducted this prospective study within the Dongfeng-Tongji cohort to evaluate the associations of plasma multiple metals with the decline in kidney function among Chinese middle-aged and elderly. In total, 1434 participants free of chronic diseases at baseline were included in analysis. We measured baseline plasma concentrations of 23 metals and calculated estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation based on serum creatinine, age, sex and ethnicity. Bonferroni correction was used for multiple testing to reduce the probability of a type I error. Principal component analysis was conducted to evaluate the combined effect of multiple metal co-exposure. Most of the plasma metal concentrations were within the literature reported reference values, whereas the concentration of lead and nickel exceeded the guideline value. We found that plasma concentrations of aluminum, arsenic, barium, lead, molybdenum, rubidium, strontium, vanadium and zinc were significantly associated with the decline in kidney function measured by annual eGFR decline, rapid renal function decline (defined as an annual decline in eGFR ≥ 5 mL/min/1.73 m²) or incident eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m², with the adjusted beta coefficients (95% CI) for annual eGFR decline 0.50 (0.30, 0.69), 0.98 (0.74, 1.23), 0.56 (0.32, 0.79), 0.21 (0.03, 0.39), 0.35 (0.16, 0.54), 0.94 (0.71, 1.17), 0.37 (0.15, 0.60), 0.78 (0.54, 1.02), and 0.74 (0.57, 0.91), respectively. The metals exposures were linked with increased risks of impaired kidney function. Associations of principal components representing these metals with the decline in kidney function were significant and suggest a possible additional health risk by co-exposure. Participants engaged in manufacturing had higher plasma levels of several metals compared with those who had been involved in management- or administration-related work. Our findings suggest that exposure to multiple metals contribute to the decline in kidney function among the middle-aged and elderly. Co-exposure to multiple metals may have synergetic effect on the kidney function. Further studies are warranted to confirm our findings and clarify the potential mechanisms.

Identification of cadmium-produced lipid hydroperoxides, transcriptomic changes in antioxidant enzymes, xenobiotic transporters, and pro-inflammatory markers in human breast cancer cells (MCF7) and protection with fat-soluble vitamins

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic metal that is regarded as a metallohormone with estrogen-like properties. The present study aimed at identification of lipid hydroperoxides produced in human breast cancer (MCF7) exposed to cadmium (Cd) at environmentally relevant levels. Cd induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress and produced a series of 26 lipid hydroperoxide species including 14 phosphatidylcholine hydroperoxides (PC-OOH), 9 triacylglycerol hydroperoxides (TG-OOH), and 3 cholesteryl ester hydroperoxides (CE-OOH). Among these hydroperoxides, PC34:2-OOH, PC34:3-OOH, TG60:14-OOH, TG48:5-OOH, TG60:15-OOH, and CE20:4-OOH were produced in a dose-dependent manner, suggesting these as possible biomarkers for Cd exposure in MCF7 cells. In addition, Cd led to significant decreases in the gene expressions of antioxidants, detoxification enzymes, and xenobiotic transporters. In a protection trial, co-exposure of MCF7 cells to fat-soluble vitamins including vitamin A, D, and E reduced Cd-induced cytotoxicity, lipid peroxidation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory responses. Fat-soluble vitamins upregulated antioxidant and detoxification enzymes, and xenobiotic transporters. Therefore, dietary supplementation of such micronutrients is recommended for people at risk for exposure to Cd.

Manganese-catalysed transfer hydrogenation of esters

A manganese complex of a tridentate P,N,N ligand can catalyse the reduction of esters using ethanol as the reductant.

Elemental impurities in pharmaceutical products adding fuel to the fire

The pharmaceuticals may generate impurities at various stages of development, transportation and storage which make them risky to be administered. Thus, it is essential that these impurities must be detected and quantified. However, their presence as impurities in finished products is virtually unavoidable, even under GMP conditions. Control of elemental impurities in pharmaceutical materials is currently undergoing a transition from control based on concentrations in components of drug products to control based on permitted daily exposures in drug products. Within the pharmaceutical community, there is uncertainty regarding the impact of these changes on manufactures of drug products. This uncertainty is fueled due to lack of publicly available information on elemental impurity levels in common pharmaceutical excipients. The present compilation gives an account of updated information about elemental impurities and reviews the regulatory aspects for such impurities in active pharmaceutical ingredients/drug formulations. In addition, the aim of this article is to review and discuss the currently used quantitative analytical method, which is used for quality control of elemental impurities in pharmaceutical products.

Assessment of Human Health Risk of Toxic Elements Due to Cinnamon Ingestion in the Diet

Recent studies highlighted the beneficial action of cinnamon on postprandial glycemia and LDL-cholesterol concentrations, both in healthy subjects and type 2 diabetic patients. Inclusion of 3 to 6 g of cinnamon in diet revealed a beneficial effect on glucose metabolism control in non-diabetic adults during postprandial period. Given the levels of toxic elements present in cinnamon species from different countries, such large daily intakes of cinnamon can easily exceed their maximum permissible limits and, consequently, induce adverse health effects. This study aimed to investigate the elemental concentration profile in cinnamon powder products available in the Portuguese market and to assess the cumulative non-carcinogenic risk to human health due to the exposure to mixtures of such elements through the inclusion of 6 g of cinnamon in diet. Concentrations of Cu, Zn, Fe, Al, Cl, Mn, and Sr were determined by wavelength dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy in different lots of eight branded and one bulk cinnamon powder products. Linear mixed models have revealed significant differences in concentrations of Zn, Fe, Al, and Cl between brands. In particular, bulk cinnamon samples presented the highest contents of Fe (475.0-490.0 mg kg^-1) and Al (1139.0-1336.0 mg kg^-1). The non-carcinogenic risk was assessed following EPA's guidelines through the hazard quotient (HQ). Estimated HQ values were lower than the USEPA guideline of 1. Additionally, the hazard index (HI), representing the combined non-carcinogenic effects of all toxic elements, revealed no potential human health risk for heavy consumers of cinnamon (HI = 0.660). AbstractGraphical ᅟ.

Metal emissions from e-cigarettes: a risk assessment analysis of a recently-published study

Introduction: A recent study reported levels of metal emissions in e-cigarette (EC) aerosol. Herein we present a risk assessment analysis of the published findings using total daily exposure limits. Methods: Median and 75th percentile metal concentrations in EC aerosols were used to determine the level of daily liquid consumption (g/d) that would exceed the permissible daily exposures (PDEs) defined for inhalation medications (cadmium, chromium, copper, nickel, lead, antimony and tin). For metals not having PDEs, minimal risk levels (manganese) or risk exposure levels (aluminum, iron and zinc) were converted into total daily exposure using an inhalation volume of 20 m³ (for 24 h) and 6.7 m³ (for 8 h) respectively. Results: The lowest amount of liquid consumption exceeding safety limits was found for nickel (73 g/day for median and 17 g/day for 75th percentile levels). The consumption corresponding to the 75th percentile could be associated with realistic use, although this would represent an extreme rather than average consumption. For chromium, the respective levels were 358 and 68 g/day and for lead 338 and 135 g/day. For all other metals, liquid consumption would need to be orders of magnitude higher, reaching to 1.5 million grams for aluminum. Conclusion: EC emissions contain trace levels of metals. For almost all metals, unrealistically high levels of liquid need to be consumed in order for total daily exposure to exceed established limits.

Potential Point-of-Care Microfluidic Devices to Diagnose Iron Deficiency Anemia

Over the past 20 years, rapid technological advancement in the field of microfluidics has produced a wide array of microfluidic point-of-care (POC) diagnostic devices for the healthcare industry. However, potential microfluidic applications in the field of nutrition, specifically to diagnose iron deficiency anemia (IDA) detection, remain scarce. Iron deficiency anemia is the most common form of anemia, which affects billions of people globally, especially the elderly, women, and children. This review comprehensively analyzes the current diagnosis technologies that address anemia-related IDA-POC microfluidic devices in the future. This review briefly highlights various microfluidics devices that have the potential to detect IDA and discusses some commercially available devices for blood plasma separation mechanisms. Reagent deposition and integration into microfluidic devices are also explored. Finally, we discuss the challenges of insights into potential portable microfluidic systems, especially for remote IDA detection.