Aluminum and tin: Food contamination and dietary intake in an Italian population

Elemental profile of wheat in the las vegas market: Geographic origin discrimination and probabilistic health risk assessment

This study investigates concentrations of toxic and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in organic and conventional wheat flour and grains marketed in Las Vegas. Geographic origins of the samples were evaluated using Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA). Monte Carlo Simulation technique was also employed to evaluate non-carcinogenic risk in four life stages. Concentrations of Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni, Pb, Se, Sr, and Zn were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) following hot block-assisted digestion. Obtained results showed non-significant differences in contents of toxic and PTEs between conventional and organic wheat grains/flour. Using LDA, metal (loid)s were found to be indicative of geographical origin. The LDA produced a total correct classification rate of 95.8% and 100% for US and West Pacific Region samples, respectively. The results of the present study indicate that the estimated non-carcinogenic risk associated with toxic element intakes across the four life stages were far lower than the threshold value (Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) > 1). However, the probability of exceeding the threshold value for Mn is approximately 32% in children aged between 5 and 8 years. The findings of this study can aid in understanding dietary Mn exposure in children in Las Vegas.

United States Grown and Imported Rice on Sale in Las Vegas: Metal(loid)s Composition and Geographic Origin Discrimination

Concentrations of metal(loid)s, Ag, Al, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Se, Sr, V and Zn, were determined in rice on sale in Las Vegas. The rice samples were grown in five different countries, the USA, Thailand, India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The elemental concentrations in rice grain were determined using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) following hot block-assisted digestion. The accuracy of the laboratory procedure was verified by the analysis of rice flour standard reference material (NIST SRM 1568b). The mean metal(loid) contents in rice of various geographic origins were 3.18-5.91 mg kg-1 for Al, 0.05-0.12 mg kg-1 for As, 3.64-41 μg kg-1 for Cd, 5.11-12 μg kg-1 for Co, 0.12-0.14 mg kg-1 for Cr, 1.5-1.91 mg kg-1 for Cu, 3.04-4.98 mg kg-1 for Fe, 4.2-10.4 mg kg-1 for Mn, 0.21-0.41 mg kg-1 for Ni, 0.02-0.07 mg kg-1 for Se, 0.68-0.88 mg kg-1 for Sr, 3.64-5.26 μg kg-1 for V, and 16.6-19.9 mg kg-1 for Zn. respectively. The mean concentration of As in US rice was significantly higher than in Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi rice. On the other hand, it was found a significantly low mean level of Cd in US-grown rice. It was also found that the concentrations of metal(loid)s in black and brown rice on sale in Las Vegas were statistically similar, except for Mn and Se. The geographic origin traceability of rice grain involved the use of ICP-MS analysis coupled with chemometrics that allowed their differentiation based on the rice metal(loid) profile, thus confirming their origins. Data were processed by linear discriminant analysis, and US and Thai rice samples were cross-validated with higher accuracy (100%). This authentication quickly discriminates US rice from the other regions and adds verifiable food safety measures for consumers.

Distribution of urinary trace element exposure and dietary sources in women over 50 in an agricultural region- A community-based KoGES cohort study

BACKGROUND

There is a noticeable lack of information on the levels of both non-essential and essential trace elements in women aged over 50. The main objective of this study is to investigate trace element concentrations and explore the influence of sociodemographic factors and dietary sources of exposure in this demographic.

METHODS

We analyzed 19 trace elements, including manganese, cobalt, copper, zinc, molybdenum, chromium, nickel, arsenic, strontium, cadmium, tin, antimony, cesium, barium, tungsten, mercury, thallium, lead, and uranium, using ICP-MS and mercury analyzer. Urine samples were obtained from a cohort of 851 women aged over 50 who participated in the 8th KoGES-Ansung study (2017-2018). Multiple linear models were employed to explore associations between urinary trace element concentrations and sociodemographic factors and dietary sources of exposure. We used K-means clustering to discern patterns of exposure to trace elements and identify contributing factors and sources.

RESULTS

Our findings indicate higher concentrations of molybdenum (Mo), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in our study population compared to women in previous studies. The study population were clustered into two distinct groups, characterized by lower or higher urinary concentrations. Significant correlations between age and urinary concentrations were observed in Ni. Smoking exhibited positive associations with urinary Cd and As. Associations with dietary sources of trace elements were more distinct in women in the high-exposure group. Urinary antimony (Sb) was positively linked to mushroom and egg intake, As to mushroom and fish, and Hg to egg, dairy products, fish, seaweed, and shellfish.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study underscores the significant gap in understanding urinary concentrations of trace elements in women aged over 50. With higher concentrations of certain elements compared to previous studies and significant correlations between age, smoking, and specific food sources, it is imperative to address this gap through targeted dietary source-specific risk management.

Food groups consumption and urinary metal mixtures in women from Northern Mexico

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the association between food groups and mixtures of urinary metal concentrations in a sample of women; as well as identify the most important metals within each mixture.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional analysis between food groups consumption and mixtures of various metals in urine from 439 women, ≥18 years old, from Northen Mexico. We estimated the dietary intake of 20 food groups through a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Urinary metal concentration of aluminum, antimony, arsenic, barium, cadmium, cesium, chromium, cobalt, copper, lead, manganese, magnesium, molybdenum, nickel, selenium, thallium, tin, vanadium, and zinc, were measured by inductively coupled plasma triple quad. We used weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression with binomial family specification to assess the association of food groups and metal mixtures, as well as to identify the most important ones.

RESULTS

We identified tin, lead, and antimony as the most important metals, in the metal mixtures that were positively associated with the consumption of eggs, non-starchy vegetables, fruits, seafood, corn, oil seeds, chicken, soda, legumes, red and/or processed meats, as well as negatively with the consumption of alliums, corn tortillas and/or vegetable oils.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that food consumption is related to more than one metal in the study sample, and highlights the presence of some of them. Further research is required to identify the possible sources of metals in food, as well as the chronic adverse health effects attributed to their simultaneous presence.

Understanding How Chemical Pollutants Arise and Evolve in the Brewing Supply Chain: A Scoping Review

In this study, a critical review was carried out using the Web of ScienceTM Core Collection database to analyse the scientific literature published to date to identify lines of research and future perspectives on the presence of chemical pollutants in beer brewing. Beer is one of the world's most popular drinks and the most consumed alcoholic beverage. However, a widespread challenge with potential implications for human and animal health is the presence of physical, chemical, and/or microbiological contaminants in beer. Biogenic amines, heavy metals, mycotoxins, nitrosamines, pesticides, acrylamide, phthalates, bisphenols, microplastics, and, to a lesser extent, hydrocarbons (aliphatic chlorinated and polycyclic aromatic), carbonyls, furan-derivatives, polychlorinated biphenyls, and trihalomethanes are the main chemical pollutants found during the beer brewing process. Pollution sources include raw materials, technological process steps, the brewery environment, and packaging materials. Different chemical pollutants have been found during the beer brewing process, from barley to beer. Brewing steps such as steeping, kilning, mashing, boiling, fermentation, and clarification are critical in reducing the levels of many of these pollutants. As a result, their residual levels are usually below the maximum levels allowed by international regulations. Therefore, this work was aimed at assessing how chemical pollutants appear and evolve in the brewing process, according to research developed in the last few decades.

A novel block copolymer containing gadolinium oxide nanoparticles in ultrasound assisted-dispersive solid phase microextraction of total arsenic in human foodstuffs: A multivariate optimization methodology

A new poly(3-hydroxy butyrate)-b-poly(dimethyl amino ethyl methacrylate) amphiphilic block copolymer containing gadolinium oxide nanoparticles (PHB-PDMAEMA-Gd2O3-NPs) were synthesized and used as composite adsorbent for extraction of total arsenic. Characterization of the composite adsorbent material PHB-PDMAEMA-Gd2O3-NP was studied using spectroscopic techniques. Plackett-Burman design and central composite design were employed to screening and optimization of the experimental parameters. This composite adsorbent was utilized in ultrasound assisted-dispersive solid phase microextraction (UA-dSPµE) for the determination of total inorganic arsenic in foodstuffs through hydride generation atomic absorption spectrometry (HG-AAS). It demonstrates a linear relationship across arsenic concentration range of 0.07-1.12 µg/L with a correlation coefficient (0.996). It's showed an enrichment factor of 128 and a limit of detection 0.02 µg/L for total inorganic arsenic determination. Accuracy of the developed method was confirmed through the analysis of certified reference materials with 96.0-98.5% recovery. It proved to be significantly useful UA-dSPµE method for determining total inorganic arsenic in different foodstuffs.

Metal(loid)s Profile of Four Traditional Ethiopian Teff Brands: Geographic Origin Discrimination

Among the most renowned Ethiopian food crops, teff (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter) is the most nutritious and gluten-free cereal. Because of the increase in demand for teff, it is necessary to establish geographic origin authentication of traditional teff brands based on multi-element fingerprint. For this purpose, a total of 60 teff samples were analysed using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Accuracy of the laboratory procedure was verified by the analysis of rice flour standard reference material (NIST SRM 1568b). In this context, four traditional teff brands (Ada'a, Ginchi, Gojam and Tulu Bolo) were analytically characterized using multi-element fingerprint and further treated statistically using linear discriminant analysis (LDA). Due to obvious extrinsic Fe, Al and V contamination, these elements were excluded from the discriminant model. Five elements (Cu, Mo, Se, Sr, and Zn) significantly contributed to discriminate the geographical origin of white teff. On the other hand, Mn, Mo, Se and Sr were used as discriminant variables for brown teff. LDA revealed 90 and 100% correct classifications for white and brown teff, respectively. Overall, multi-element fingerprint coupled with LDA can be considered a suitable tool for geographic origin discrimination of traditional teff brands.

Residual levels and health risk assessment of trace metals in Chinese resident diet

Large-scale metal contamination across the food web is an intractable problem due to increasing pollutant emissions, atmospheric transport, and dry and wet deposition of elements. The present study focus on several trace metals that are rarely studied but have special toxicity, including tin (Sn), antimony (Sb), gold (Au), hafnium (Hf), palladium (Pd), platinum (Pt), ruthenium (Ru), tellurium (Te) and iridium (Ir). We investigated trace metals residues and distribution characteristics, and further evaluated the potential health risks from major daily food intakes in 33 cities in China. Sn, Sb, Ir, Hf, and Au were frequently detected in food samples with the concentrations ranged from ND (not detected) to 24.78 µg/kg ww (wet weight). Eggs exhibited the highest residual level of all detected metals (13.70 ± 14.70 µg/kg ww in sum), while the lowest concentrations were observed in vegetables (0.53 ± 0.17 µg/kg ww in sum). Sn accounting for more than 50% of the total trace metals concentration in both terrestrial and aquatic animal origin foods. In terrestrial plant origin foods, Sn and Ir were the most abundant elements. Hf and Au were the most abundant elements in egg samples. In addition, Sb and Ir showed a clear trophic dilution effect in terrestrial environments, while in aquatic ecosystems, Sn, Hf, and Au exhibited obvious trophic amplification effects. The calculated average estimated daily intake (EDI) via food consumption in five regions of China was 0.09 µg/(kg·day), implying the health risk of aforementioned elements was acceptable.

Local and Systemic Hypoxia as Inductors of Increased Aluminum and Iron Brain Accumulation Promoting the Onset of Alzheimer's Disease

Human environment is highly contaminated with aluminum, and aluminum is toxic to majority of tissues, particularly to neurons. In previous decades, aluminum exposure was frequently linked with the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD), and increased levels of Al were detected in the brains of individuals with AD. People who live in a certain area are exposed to aluminum in a similar way (they eat the same vegetable and other foodstuffs, use similar cosmetics, and buy medications from the same manufacturer), nevertheless not all of them develop Alzheimer's disease. Majority of known risk factors for AD promote atherosclerosis and consequently reduce brain blood supply. In this review, we highlighted the significance of local (carotid disease and atherosclerosis of intracranial blood vessels) and systemic hypoxia (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and anemia) in the development of AD. Nerve tissue is very sophisticated and sensitive to hypoxia and aluminum toxicity. As a side effect of compensatory mechanisms in case of hypoxia, neurons start to uptake aluminum and iron to a greater extent. This makes perfect a background for the gradual onset and development of AD.

Composition of discarded Sicilian fruits of Opuntia ficus indica L.: Phenolic content, mineral profile and antioxidant activity in peel, seeds and whole fruit

Sicily (Italy) is the second producer of Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) fruits after Mexico. To date, huge quantities of fruit are discarded during the selection for the fresh market, generating a large amount of by-product to be valorized. This study aimed to investigate on the composition of OFI discarded fruits from the main Sicilian productive areas, over two harvesting periods. Peel, seeds and whole fruit samples were characterized in terms of minerals and phenolic compounds through ICP-OES and HPLC-DAD-MS. Potassium, calcium and magnesium were the most abundant elements and peel samples showed the highest values. Seventeen phenolic compounds were detected in peel and whole fruit, including flavonoids, phenylpyruvic and hydroxycinnamic acids, while only phenolic acids were found in the seeds. A multivariate chemometric approach highlighted a correlation between the mineral and phenolic content and the different parts of the fruit as well as a significant influence of productive area.

The Effect of Flake Production and In Vitro Digestion on Releasing Minerals and Trace Elements from Wheat Flakes: The Extended Study of Dietary Intakes for Individual Life Stage Groups

This thorough study analyses the amounts of 43 minerals and trace elements in non-traditional wheat grains, flakes, and undigested flake portions using ICP-MS and establishes declines in their respective contents after the flake production. It also identifies appropriate dietary intakes, in vitro digestibility values, retention factors, and metal pollution indexes. The element contents in wheat flakes are lower than in wheat grains after the hydrothermal treatment process, and their declines are: Na (48-72%), Ce (47-72%), Sr (43-55%), Tl (33-43%), Ti (32-41%), U (31-44%), Ho (29-69%), Cr (26-64%), Zr (26-58%), Ag (25-52%), and Ca (25-46%). The flakes significantly contributed to the recommended dietary intake or adequate intake of particular elements for men of all categories as follows: Mn (143%) > Mo > Cu > Mg ≥ Cr > Fe (16%); for women: Mn (up to 183%) > Mo > Cu > Cr ≥ Mg > Fe (7-16%); for pregnant women aged 19-30: Mn (165%) > Mo > Cu > Mg > Cr (25%); and finally, for lactating women: Mn (127%) > Mo > Cu > Mg > Cr (17%). The contributions to the provisional tolerable weekly or monthly intakes of all toxic elements were established as being within the official limits. The daily intakes for non-essential elements were also calculated. The retention factors were calculated to assess the element concentrations in the undigested part using the digestibility values (87.4-90.5%). The highest retention factors were obtained for V (63-92%), Y (57-96%), Ce (43-76%), Pb (34-58%), Tl (32-70%), Ta (31-66%), and Ge (30-49%). K, Mg, P, Zn, Ba, Bi, Ga, Sb, Cu, Ni, and As appear to be released easily from flake matrices during digestion. The metal pollution index has been confirmed as being lower for non-traditional wheat flakes when compared with grains. Importantly, 15-25% of the metal pollution index assessed for native flakes remains in the undigested flake portion after in vitro digestion.

Bio-inspired nanoparticles mediated from plant extract biomolecules and their therapeutic application in cardiovascular diseases: A review

Nanoparticles (NPs) have gained recognition for diagnosis, drug delivery, and therapy in fatal diseases. This review focuses on the benefits of green synthesis of bioinspired NPs using various plant extract (containing various biomolecules such as sugars, proteins, and other phytochemical compounds) and their therapeutic application in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Multiple factors including inflammation, mitochondrial and cardiomyocyte mutations, endothelial cell apoptosis, and administration of non-cardiac drugs, can trigger the cause of cardiac disorders. Furthermore, the interruption of reactive oxygen species (ROS) synchronization from mitochondria causes oxidative stress in the cardiac system, leading to chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction. NPs can decrease the interaction with biomolecules and prevent the incitement of ROS. Understanding this mechanism can pave the way for using green synthesized elemental NPs to reduce the risk of CVD. This review delivers information on the different methods, classifications, mechanisms and benefits of using NPs, as well as the formation and progression of CVDs and their effects on the body.

What adverse health effects will environmental heavy metal co-exposure bring us: based on a biological monitoring study of sanitation workers

To investigate the relationship between health effect profile and co-exposure to heavy metal, 254 sanitation workers from Guangzhou, China, were recruited. Ten urinary metals were determined by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Parameters of physical examination, including blood lipid metabolism, renal function, blood pressure, and lung function, were tested for each participant. The hazard quotients (HQs) of eight heavy metals were evaluated. Cobalt, copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), nickel (Ni), and tin (Sn) demonstrated the top five associations with human health with the ∑₁₉β as 2.220, 1.351, 1.234, 0.957, and 0.930, respectively. Most physical examination parameters of workers were under the normal ranges, except the levels of forced mid expiratory flow rate (MMEF_75/25), the maximum expiratory flow rate at 25% vital capacity (MEF₂₅) and apolipoprotein B in the first quartile, and the level of uric acid in the third quartile of sanitation works. Moreover, Cu was significantly associated with diastolic pressure, pulse, and high density lipid (p < 0.05). Each unit increase in Mo level was related to a 120% increase odd ratio (OR) of abnormal of systolic pressure, but was significantly and negatively correlated with high density lipoprotein and apolipoprotein A, suggesting that Mo exposure may be a risk factor of cardiovascular disease. Each unit increase in Ni and Sn levels was associated with an increased OR of abnormal rate of MMEF_75/25 and MEF₂₅ (p < 0.001), suggesting the increasing risks of respiratory diseases. Sanitation workers exposed to Ni and Pb alone had no carcinogenic risks (HQ < 1). However, 23.8%, 34.6%, and 87.3% of sanitation workers confronted non-carcinogenic risks when exposed to Cu, Mo alone (HQ > 1), or co-exposed to the four heavy metals (HI > 1). Our study preliminarily revealed the potential sensitive health indicators of heavy metal co-exposure, which will provide beneficial health protection suggestions for the occupational populations.

Inorganic Contaminants in Plant-Based Yogurts Commercialized in Brazil

This study aimed to evaluate the content of 11 inorganic elements (Al, Cr, Co, Ni, As, Mo, Cd, Sb, Ba, Hg, and Pb) in commercial plant-based and animal-based yogurts for comparison purposes. The samples were mineralized using a simple and fast ultrasound-assisted acid digestion method at 80 °C for 35 min, and the determination of inorganic elements was performed by ICP-MS. The method was validated according to the INMETRO guide, obtaining recoveries from 80 to 110%, precision from 6 to 15%, and a limit of quantification (LOQ) ranging from 200 µg/kg (Al) to 4 µg/kg (other elements). The element concentrations in the plant-based yogurts were Al( Collapse

Key Words

• ICP-MS
• estimated dietary intake
• food safety
• inorganic contaminants
• plant-based
• public health

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MESH Headings

• Animals
• Cadmium
• Brazil
• Lead
• Yogurt
• Plants
• Mercury
• Trace Elements/analysis

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Grants Collapse

Affiliation(s)

Ana Paula Rebellato Institute of Food Technology, São Paulo 13070-178, SP, Brazil
Maria Isabel Andrekowisk Fioravanti Adolfo Lutz Institute, São Paulo 01246-902, SP, Brazil
Raquel Fernanda Milani Institute of Food Technology, São Paulo 13070-178, SP, Brazil
Marcelo Antonio Morgano Institute of Food Technology, São Paulo 13070-178, SP, Brazil

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Levels of Toxic and Essential Elements and Associated Factors in the Hair of Japanese Young Children

There is growing concern regarding the effects of toxic element exposure on the development of children. However, little is known about the level of toxic elements exposure in Japanese children. The purpose of this study was to assess the concentrations of multiple elements (aluminum, cadmium, lead, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, sodium, zinc) in the hair of 118 Japanese young children and to explore the factors associated with their element levels. The element concentration was analyzed by ICP-MS, and children's food and water intake were assessed by the questionnaire. Results showed that there were no large differences between the level of elements in the hair of Japanese children and those of children in other developed countries. Girls had significantly higher levels of aluminum, copper, and iron (p = 0.000, 0.014, and 0.013, respectively), and boys had a higher level of sodium (p = 0.006). The levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and sodium in nursery school children were significantly higher than those in kindergarten children (p = 0.024, 0.001, 0.046, and 0.029, respectively). Multiple regression analyses with controlling the confounding variables showed significant negative associations of frequency of yogurt intake with aluminum and lead levels (p = 0.015 and 0.037, respectively). When the children were divided into three groups based on the frequency of yoghurt consumption, viz. L (≤once a week), M (2 or 3 times a week), and H (≥4 to 6 times a week) group, the mean aluminum concentration (µg/g) in the L, M, and H groups was 11.06, 10.13, and 6.85, while the mean lead concentration (µg/g) was 1.76, 1.70, and 0.87, respectively. Our results suggested the validity of hair element concentrations as an exposure measure of essential elements and frequent yogurt intake as a viable measure for protecting children from toxic elements. However, these findings will need to be confirmed in more detailed studies with larger sample sizes in the future.

Toxic metal and metalloid contamination in seafood from an eutrophic Brazilian estuary and associated public health risks

Guanabara Bay (GB) is a highly contaminated estuarine system and an important fishing area in Southeastern Brazil. In this regard, knowledge concerning the association of certain contaminants in seafood to abiotic factors and human health risk assessments is still understudied. Therefore, this study aimed to quantify nine toxic elements in highly consumed crabs, shrimp, and squid, and associate the results with abiotic factors. A human health risk assessment was also performed. Our findings indicate that crabs are the main bioaccumulators. Transparency and depth were noteworthy for all three taxonomic groups. In general, contaminant concentrations were below the limits established by different international agencies, except for As, which was higher than the Brazilian limit (1 mg kg^-1). However, the Hazard Index identified risks to consumer health for the ingestion of seafood. This study emphasizes the importance of jointly evaluating different toxic elements, for a more accurate health risk assessment.

Interactions between Environmental Factors and Glutathione S-Transferase (GST) Genes with Respect to Detectable Blood Aluminum Concentrations in Jamaican Children

Aluminum (Al) is a metallic toxicant at high concentrations following natural or unnatural exposures. Dietary intake is considered as the main source of aluminum exposure in children. We used data from 366 typically developing (TD) children (ages 2−8 years) who participated as controls in an age- and sex-matched case−control study in Jamaica. We investigated additive and interactive associations among environmental factors and children’s genotypes for glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes (GSTT1, GSTM1, GSTP1), in relation to having a detectable blood aluminum concentration (BAlC) of >5.0 μg/L, using multivariable logistic regression models. Findings from interactive models revealed that the odds of having a detectable BAlC was significantly higher among children who ate string beans (p ≤ 0.01), whereas about 40% lower odds of having a detectable BAlC was observed in children with higher parental education level, (p = 0.02). A significant interaction between consumption of saltwater fish and GSTP1 in relation to having a detectable BAlC using either co-dominant or dominant genetic models (overall interaction p = 0.02 for both models) indicated that consumption of saltwater fish was associated with higher odds of having a detectable BAlC only among children with the GSTP1 Ile105Val Ile/Ile genotype using either co-dominant or dominant models [OR (95% CI) = 2.73 (1.07, 6.96), p = 0.04; and OR (95% CI) = 2.74 (1.08, 6.99), p = 0.03]. Since this is the first study from Jamaica that reports such findings, replication in other populations is warranted.

Beer Safety: New Challenges and Future Trends within Craft and Large-Scale Production

The presence of physical, chemical, or microbiological contaminants in beer represents a broad and worthy problem with potential implications for human health. The expansion of beer types makes it more and more appreciated for the sensorial properties and health benefits of fermentation and functional ingredients, leading to significant consumed quantities. Contaminant sources are the raw materials, risks that may occur in the production processes (poor sanitation, incorrect pasteurisation), the factory environment (air pollution), or inadequate (ethanol) consumption. We evaluated the presence of these contaminants in different beer types. This review covers publications that discuss the presence of bacteria (Lactobacillus, Pediococcus), yeasts (Saccharomyces, Candida), moulds (Fusarium, Aspergillus), mycotoxins, heavy metals, biogenic amines, and micro- and nano-plastic in beer products, ending with a discussion regarding the identified gaps in current risk reduction or elimination strategies.

Innovative In Vitro Strategy for Assessing Aluminum Bioavailability in Oral Care Cosmetics

Aluminum is an element found in nature and in cosmetic products. It can interfere with the metabolism of other cations, thus inducing gastrointestinal disorder. In cosmetics, aluminum is used in antiperspirants, lipsticks, and toothpastes. The aim of this work is to investigate aluminum bioavailability after accidental oral ingestion derived from the use of a toothpaste containing a greater amount of aluminum hydroxide than advised by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS). To simulate in vitro toothpaste accidental ingestion, the INFOGEST model was employed, and the amount of aluminum was measured through the ICP-AES analysis. Tissue barrier integrity was analyzed by measuring transepithelial electric resistance, and the tissue architecture was checked through light microscopy. The margin of safety was also calculated. Overall, our results indicate that the acute exposure to aluminum accidentally ingested from toothpastes is safe for the final user, even in amounts higher than SCCS indications.

Heavy Metals in Unprocessed or Minimally Processed Foods Consumed by Humans Worldwide: A Scoping Review

Heavy metals (HM) can be accumulated along the food chain; their presence in food is a global concern for human health because some of them are toxic even at low concentrations. Unprocessed or minimally processed foods are good sources of different nutrients, so their safety and quality composition should be guaranteed in the most natural form that is obtained for human consumption. The objective of this scoping review (ScR) is to summarize the existing evidence about the presence of HM content (arsenic (As), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), methylmercury (MeHg), and aluminum (Al)) in unprocessed or minimally processed foods for human consumption worldwide during the period of 2011–2020. As a second objective, we identified reported HM values in food with respect to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Food Standards for Maximum Limits (MLs) for contaminants in food. This ScR was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR); advance searches were performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect and FAO AGRIS (Agricultural Science and Technology Information) databases by two reviewers who independently performed literature searches with specific eligibility criteria. We classified individual foods in food groups and subgroups according to the Global Individual Information Food Consumption Data Tool (FAO/WHO GIFT). We homologated all the reported HM units to parts per million (ppm) to determine the weighted mean HM concentration per country and food group/subgroup of the articles included. Then, we compared HM concentration findings with FAO/WHO MLs. Finally, we used a Geographic Information System (GIS) to present our findings. Using our search strategy, we included 152 articles. Asia was the continent with the highest number of publications (n = 79, 51.3%), with China being the country with the largest number of studies (n = 34). Fish and shellfish (n = 58), followed by vegetables (n = 39) and cereals (n = 38), were the food groups studied the most. Fish (n = 42), rice (n = 33), and leafy (n = 28) and fruiting vegetables (n = 29) were the most studied food subgroups. With respect to the HM of interest, Cd was the most analyzed, followed by Pb, As, Hg and Al. Finally, we found that many of the HM concentrations reported exceeded the FAO/OMS MLs established for Cd, Pb and As globally in all food groups, mainly in vegetables, followed by the roots and tubers, and cereals food groups. Our study highlights the presence of HM in the most natural forms of food around the world, in concentrations that, in fact, exceed the MLs, which affects food safety and could represent a human health risk. In countries with regulations on these topics, a monitoring system is recommended to evaluate and monitor compliance with national standards. For countries without a regulation system, it is recommended to adopt international guidelines, such as those of FAO, and implement a monitoring system that supervises national compliance. In both cases, the information must be disseminated to the population to create social awareness. This is especially important to protect the population from the consumption of internal production and for the international markets of the globalized world.

A Survey on Nanotechnology-Based Bioremediation of Wastewater

Rainwater discharge and human impacts produce wastewater, which is a contaminated type of water. Sediments also discharge phosphate into the water column when there is a lack of dissolved oxygen in the water. Through the manufacturing of environmentally benign nanoparticles, nanotechnology may reduce the amount of money spent by enterprises to remediate such contaminants. Because of their improved physiological, biochemical, and biomechanical qualities, nanoparticles are getting prominence. The importance of the global wastewater dilemma is discussed in this survey. The use of nanomaterials in heavy metal remediation (HMR) and wastewater treatment is covered in this survey. This paper also discusses the benefits of nanotechnology over traditional approaches in certain fields. This survey aims to gather together many recent studies on nanoparticle production and their benefits as adsorbents in the remediation of wastewater which have been done so far. The promising role of nanotechnology in wastewater remediation is surveyed in this research, which also discusses recent developments in nanotechnology-mediated remediation methods. This survey examines the vital potential of nanotechnology in wastewater treatment, as well as recent breakthroughs in nanotechnology-mediated treatment systems.

Heat shock induces cross adaptation to aluminum stress through enhancing ascorbate-glutathione cycle in wheat seedlings

Aluminum (Al), a neurotoxin agent, is universal in the earth crust, but its bioavailability and toxicity are manifested under acidic conditions. Up to 60% of the acid soils are distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, where crops simultaneously experience heat-shock stress. Here, we investigated the effects of heat shock-priming on Al tolerance in two different wheat genotypes. Conditioning of wheat seedlings with short period high temperature significantly alleviated Al-induced root growth inhibition, but did not significantly affect Al accumulation. However, we observed that heat shock-primed roots maintained lower levels of lipid peroxidation and higher cell viability. These priming-triggered effects were associated with reactive oxygen species (ROS) homeostasis. Furthermore, conditioning of plants with high temperature increased the contents of reduced ascorbate and glutathione, and ratios of reduced to oxidized forms of these molecules in wheat roots. However, ascorbate or glutathione biosynthesis inhibitors markedly prevented heat shock priming-induced ROS reduction accompanied by aggravated root elongation. Moreover, heat shock-priming enhanced the metabolic intensity of ascorbate-glutathione cycle, as activities of the cycle-allied enzymes were significantly increased. These results suggest that heat-shock induces cross adaptation to Al toxicity through sustaining efficient ascorbate-glutathione cycle operation in wheat plants.

Monitoring of Aluminum content in food and assessment of dietary exposure of residents in North China

Although the Chinese diet has become very abundant in the past 30 years, few people know that traditional Chinese diet is exposed to aluminium (Al). A total of 1232 samples were purchased during 2017-2019 and analysed for Al content with an inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) method. High Al levels were found in deep-fried dough sticks (mean 219 mg/kg), starch products (mean 84.5 mg/kg), and steam bread (mean 28.6 mg/kg). The average dietary Al exposure of residents in North China was 1.82 mg/kg bw/week, lower than the PTWI (provisional tolerable weekly intake). Deep-fried dough sticks (DFDS) are the main Al contributor in North China, providing 28.2% of the daily intake. The P95 dietary exposure to Al from DFDS was 2.3 mg/kg bw/week, exceeding the PTWI. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the health risk of exposure to Al from DFDS and starch products. Over-use of Al associated with food additives should be effectively controlled.

Sodium and Potassium Content of Foods Consumed in an Italian Population and the Impact of Adherence to a Mediterranean Diet on Their Intake

High sodium and low potassium intakes are associated with increased levels of blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases. Assessment of habitual dietary habits are helpful to evaluate their intake and adherence to healthy dietary recommendations. In this study, we determined sodium and potassium food-specific content and intake in a Northern Italy community, focusing on the role and contribution of adherence to Mediterranean diet patterns. We collected a total of 908 food samples and measured sodium and potassium content using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire, we assessed habitual dietary intake of 719 adult individuals of the Emilia-Romagna region. We then estimated sodium and potassium daily intake for each food based on their relative contribution to the overall diet, and their link to Mediterranean diet patterns. The estimated mean sodium intake was 2.15 g/day, while potassium mean intake was 3.37 g/day. The foods contributing most to sodium intake were cereals (33.2%), meat products (24.5%, especially processed meat), and dairy products (13.6%), and for potassium they were meat (17.1%, especially red and white meat), fresh fruits (15.7%), and vegetables (15.1%). Adherence to a Mediterranean diet had little influence on sodium intake, whereas potassium intake was greatly increased in subjects with higher scores, resulting in a lower sodium/potassium ratio. Although we may have underestimated dietary sodium intake by not including discretionary salt use and there may be some degree of exposure misclassification as a result of changes in food sodium content and dietary habits over time, our study provides an overview of the contribution of a wide range of foods to the sodium and potassium intake in a Northern Italy community and of the impact of a Mediterranean diet on intake. The mean sodium intake was above the dietary recommendations for adults of 1.5-2 g/day, whilst potassium intake was only slightly lower than the recommended 3.5 g/day. Our findings suggest that higher adherence to Mediterranean diet patterns has limited effect on restricting sodium intake, but may facilitate a higher potassium intake, thereby aiding the achievement of healthy dietary recommendations.

Pressurized Hot Liquid Extraction with 15% v/v Glycerol-Water as An Effective Environment-Friendly Process to Obtain Durvillaea incurvata and Lessonia spicata Phlorotannin Extracts with Antioxidant and Antihyperglycemic Potential

Brown seaweed phlorotannins have shown the potential to promote several health benefits. Durvillaea incurvata and Lessonia spicata-species that are widely distributed in central and southern Chile-were investigated to obtain phlorotannin extracts with antioxidant and antihyperglycemic potential. The use of an environmentally friendly and food-grade glycerol-based pressurized hot liquid extraction (PHLE) process (15% v/v glycerol water) was assessed for the first time to obtain phlorotannins. Multiple effects were analyzed, including the effect of the species, harvesting area (Las Cruces and Niebla), and anatomical part (holdfast, stipe, and frond) on the extracts' polyphenol content (TPC), antioxidant capacity (AC), and carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzyme-α-glucosidase and α-amylase-inhibitory activity. Contaminants, such as mannitol, heavy metals (As, Cd, Pb, Hg, and Sn), and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), were also determined. The anatomical part used demonstrated a significant impact on the extracts' TPC and AC, with holdfasts showing the highest values (TPC: 95 ± 24 mg phloroglucinol equivalents/g dry extract; DPPH: 400 ± 140 μmol Trolox equivalents/g dry extract; ORAC: 560 ± 130 μmol TE/g dry extract). Accordingly, holdfast extracts presented the most potent α-glucosidase inhibition, with D. incurvata from Niebla showing an activity equivalent to fifteen times that of acarbose. Only one frond and stipe extract showed significant α-glucosidase inhibitory capacity. No α-amylase inhibition was found in any extract. Although no HMF was detected, potentially hazardous cadmium levels (over the French limit) and substantial mannitol concentrations-reaching up to 50% of the extract dry weight-were found in most seaweed samples and extracts. Therefore, further purification steps are suggested if food or pharmaceutical applications are intended for the seaweed PHLE extracts obtained in this study.

A review of chemical and microbial contamination in food: What are the threats to a circular food system?

A circular food system is one in which food waste is processed to recover plant nutrients and returned to the soil to enable the production of more food, rather than being diverted to landfill or incineration. The approach may be used to reduce energy and water use in food production and contribute to the sustainability of the system. Anaerobic digestion and composting are common food waste treatment technologies used to stabilize waste and produce residual materials that can replenish the soil, thus contributing to a circular food system. This approach can only be deemed safe and feasible, however, if food waste is uncontaminated or any contaminants are destroyed during treatment. This review brings together information on several contaminant classes at different stages of the food supply chain, their possible sources, and their fates during composting and digestion. The main aim is to identify factors that could impede the transition towards a safe, reliable and efficient circular food system. We investigated heavy metals, halogenated organic compounds, foodborne pathogens and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in the food system and their fates during digestion and composting. Production and processing stages were identified as major entry points for these classes of contaminants. Heavy metals and foodborne pathogens pose less risk in a circular system than halogenated organics or antibiotic resistance. Given the diversity of properties among halogenated organic compounds, there is conflicting evidence about their fate during treatment. There are relatively few studies on the fate of ARGs during treatment, and these have produced variable results, indicating a need for more research to clarify their fate in the final products. Repeated land application of contaminated food waste residuals can increase the risk of accumulation and jeopardize the safety of a circular food system. Thus, careful management of the system and research into the fate of the contaminants during treatment is needed.

Probabilistic Risk Analysis to Assess Dietary Exposure to Aluminum in the Taiwanese Population

Aluminum (Al) exposure at human dietary levels raises health concerns, yet little is known about the Al exposure from the Taiwanese diet. The amount of aluminum (Al)-containing food consumption in the Taiwanese total diet is increasing, which contributes to the total diet consumption., which raises the health concerns. In this study, we aim to assess estimated weekly intake (EWI) and the percentage of provisional tolerable weekly intake (%PTWI) of the dietary exposure to Al in different age-sex groups. We also applied probabilistic risk analyses to quantify the parameters' uncertainty by focusing on the distribution function for the Al concentration in food, consumption rate, and body weight in specific age groups. Results indicated that the EWIs declined with increasing age after 6-years old (7-12 > 13-15 > 16-18 > 19-64 > 65+). Results indicated that the EWIs gradually declined after 6-year of age. The EWIs of Al-rich food in cake + waffle, kelp, snacks, and bread contributed 20%, 17%, 17%, and 11%, respectively, to the total EWIs, corresponding with the much higher consumption rates for these four foods. The 75th percentile of EWIs for the children aged 34-6 years had a %PTWI valued at over 100%, indicating a potential risk of Al intake via dietary exposure. Our findings show that there is a concern about the consumption of Al-rich foods for children in Taiwan.

Dietary Habits and Risk of Early-Onset Dementia in an Italian Case-Control Study

Risk of early-onset dementia (EOD) might be modified by environmental factors and lifestyles, including diet. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association between dietary habits and EOD risk. We recruited 54 newly-diagnosed EOD patients in Modena (Northern Italy) and 54 caregivers as controls. We investigated dietary habits through a food frequency questionnaire, assessing both food intake and adherence to dietary patterns, namely the Greek-Mediterranean, the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), and the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diets. We modeled the relation between dietary factors and risk using the restricted cubic spline regression analysis. Cereal intake showed a U-shaped relation with EOD, with risk increasing above 350 g/day. A high intake (>400 g/day) of dairy products was also associated with excess risk. Although overall fish and seafood consumption showed no association with EOD risk, we found a U-shaped relation with preserved/tinned fish, and an inverse relation with other fish. Similarly, vegetables (especially leafy) showed a strong inverse association above 100 g/day, as did citrus and dry fruits. Overall, sweet consumption was not associated with EOD risk, while dry cake and ice-cream showed a positive relation and chocolate products an inverse one. For beverages, we found no relation with EOD risk apart from a U-shaped relation for coffee consumption. Concerning dietary patterns, EOD risk linearly decreased with the increasing adherence to the MIND pattern. On the other hand, an inverse association for the Greek-Mediterranean and DASH diets emerged only at very high adherence levels. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that explores the association between dietary factors and EOD risk, and suggests that adherence to the MIND dietary pattern may decrease such risk.

Basal Ti level in the human placenta and meconium and evidence of a materno-foetal transfer of food-grade TiO2 nanoparticles in an ex vivo placental perfusion model

Background

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is broadly used in common consumer goods, including as a food additive (E171 in Europe) for colouring and opacifying properties. The E171 additive contains TiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs), part of them being absorbed in the intestine and accumulated in several systemic organs. Exposure to TiO₂-NPs in rodents during pregnancy resulted in alteration of placental functions and a materno-foetal transfer of NPs, both with toxic effects on the foetus. However, no human data are available for pregnant women exposed to food-grade TiO₂-NPs and their potential transfer to the foetus. In this study, human placentae collected at term from normal pregnancies and meconium (the first stool of newborns) from unpaired mothers/children were analysed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) coupled to energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy for their titanium (Ti) contents and for analysis of TiO₂ particle deposition, respectively. Using an ex vivo placenta perfusion model, we also assessed the transplacental passage of food-grade TiO₂ particles.

Results

By ICP-MS analysis, we evidenced the presence of Ti in all placentae (basal level ranging from 0.01 to 0.48 mg/kg of tissue) and in 50% of the meconium samples (0.02–1.50 mg/kg), suggesting a materno-foetal passage of Ti. STEM-EDX observation of the placental tissues confirmed the presence of TiO₂-NPs in addition to iron (Fe), tin (Sn), aluminium (Al) and silicon (Si) as mixed or isolated particle deposits. TiO₂ particles, as well as Si, Al, Fe and zinc (Zn) particles were also recovered in the meconium. In placenta perfusion experiments, confocal imaging and SEM-EDX analysis of foetal exudate confirmed a low transfer of food-grade TiO₂ particles to the foetal side, which was barely quantifiable by ICP-MS. Diameter measurements showed that 70 to 100% of the TiO₂ particles recovered in the foetal exudate were nanosized.

Conclusions

Altogether, these results show a materno-foetal transfer of TiO₂ particles during pregnancy, with food-grade TiO₂ as a potential source for foetal exposure to NPs. These data emphasize the need for risk assessment of chronic exposure to TiO₂-NPs during pregnancy.

Aluminum exposure from food in the population of Lebanon

Widely used for a variety of applications, levels of dietary aluminum (Al) have seen a perpetual rise in Lebanon, leading to noticeable effects upon the human body. This study aims to estimate the rates of Al contaminated food consumption and quantify the Al present in different dietary matrices, revealing the major contributors to Al exposure for the Lebanese population. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a customized, self-reported Electronic Food Frequency Questionnaire (E-FFQ) using Curve®, targeting individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 from different Lebanese regions, distributed proportionally. The selection of food was based upon the results of the French EAT2 study. Al levels in food were analyzed using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (FAAS) after acid digestion. The E-FFQ was completed by 167 respondents. Data analysis was performed on SPSS version 25. Additionally, 97 food items were studied in 2018. Al levels had a mean of 3.56 ± 2.08 mg/kg (ranging from 0.14 to 9.37). The highest Al levels were found in vegetables, followed by sauces and condiments, candies, and ready meals. The Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake (PTWI) of Al was set at 0.50 mg/kg body weight (60 Kg/person). Al mean Daily Dietary Exposure (DDE) was estimated to be 4341.18 μg/day, with the highest food exposure coming from lettuce, soft drinks, ice cream and tea. Al ingestion rates for the adult Lebanese population does not exceed the international established thresholds of tolerable intake (1 mg/kg/week). National recommendation should be developed to control the presence of metal for food safety purposes.

Lead exposure in an Italian population: Food content, dietary intake and risk assessment

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Lead is a highly toxic heavy metal released into the environment after natural and anthropogenic activities. Excluding populations in occupations where there is possible lead contamination, food is the major source of human exposure. In this study, we determined lead contamination in food and beverages consumed in a Northern Italy community and performed a health risk assessment.

METHODS

We collected a total of 908 food samples and measured lead levels using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Using a validated food frequency questionnaire, we assessed the dietary habits and estimated daily lead dietary intakes in a sample of 719 adult individuals. We performed risk assessment using a benchmark dose and margin of exposure approach, based on exposure levels for both adverse effect of systolic blood pressure and chronic kidney disease.

RESULTS

Foods with the highest lead levels include non-chocolate confectionery (48.7 µg/kg), leafy (39.0 µg/kg) and other vegetables (42.2 µg/kg), and crustaceans and molluscs (39.0 µg/kg). The estimated mean lead intake was 0.155 µg/kg bw-day in all subjects, with little lower intakes in men (0.151 µg/kg bw-day) compared to women (0.157 µg/kg bw-day). Top food contributors were vegetables, cereals, and beverages, particularly wine. In relation to risk assessment, the estimated dietary intake was lower than levels associated with cardiovascular risk and nephrotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides an updated assessment of lead food contamination and dietary exposure in a Northern Italian community. The margin of exposure risk assessment approach suggests that risk of detrimental effects due to dietary lead intake is low in the investigated population. Nonetheless, these exposure levels for adverse effects are not reference health standards, and no safety threshold value can be established for lead. As a consequence, other and more subtle adverse effects may still occur in vulnerable and occupationally exposed individuals, particularly in relation to the nervous system.

Adipose tissue concentrations of arsenic, nickel, lead, tin, and titanium in adults from GraMo cohort in Southern Spain: An exploratory study

BACKGROUND

Adipose tissue has been acknowledged as a potential target for obesogenic pollutants, including toxic metal(loid)s. However, the presence of these chemicals in the adipose tissue has been poorly characterized.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the distributions of adipose tissue concentrations of five toxic metal(loid)s (i.e., arsenic [As], nickel [Ni], lead [Pb], tin [Sn], and titanium [Ti]) in adults, and potential socio-demographic and lifestyle factors associated with metal(loid) concentrations.

METHODS

The study population consisted of a subsample of 228 subjects from GraMo cohort in Southern Spain (N = 387). Adipose tissue samples were intra-operatively collected from adults recruited in 2003-2004 in two public hospitals, and concentrations of metal(loid)s in adipose tissue were analyzed in 2015 by High-Resolution Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Data on socio-demographic and lifestyle factors were obtained by baseline questionnaire completion. Linear and multinomial regression was used to identify factors associated with metal(loid) levels.

RESULTS

Ni, Pb, Sn, and Ti were detected in all adipose tissue samples, and As in 51% of them. Ni was the metal showing the highest median concentration (0.56 μg/g), followed by Ti (0.31 μg/g), Pb (0.08 μg/g), Sn (0.06 μg/g), and As (0.003 μg/g). Predictors of As levels included area of residence, social class, and oily fish intake; for Ni: area of residence and consumption of cheese, meat, eggs, and canned food; for Pb: vegetables intake and industrial occupation; for Sn: age, body mass index, and consumption of lean fish, eggs, and milk; and cheese intake for Ti. Some of these predictors were sex-specific, particularly those regarding dietary intake.

CONCLUSIONS

This exploratory study provides the first evidence of the occurrence of Ni, Pb, Sn, Ti, and As in adipose tissue from adult population, and highlights the potential of this tissue as a biological matrix for studying exposure levels and chronic health effects of toxic metal(loid)s.

Green tea (Camellia sinensis) for the prevention of cancer

BACKGROUND

This review is an update of a previously published review in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2009, Issue 3).Tea is one of the most commonly consumed beverages worldwide. Teas from the plant Camellia sinensis can be grouped into green, black and oolong tea, and drinking habits vary cross-culturally. C sinensis contains polyphenols, one subgroup being catechins. Catechins are powerful antioxidants, and laboratory studies have suggested that these compounds may inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Some experimental and nonexperimental epidemiological studies have suggested that green tea may have cancer-preventative effects.

OBJECTIVES

To assess possible associations between green tea consumption and the risk of cancer incidence and mortality as primary outcomes, and safety data and quality of life as secondary outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched eligible studies up to January 2019 in CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov, and reference lists of previous reviews and included studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all epidemiological studies, experimental (i.e. randomised controlled trials (RCTs)) and nonexperimental (non-randomised studies, i.e. observational studies with both cohort and case-control design) that investigated the association of green tea consumption with cancer risk or quality of life, or both.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two or more review authors independently applied the study criteria, extracted data and assessed methodological quality of studies. We summarised the results according to diagnosis of cancer type.

MAIN RESULTS

In this review update, we included in total 142 completed studies (11 experimental and 131 nonexperimental) and two ongoing studies. This is an additional 10 experimental and 85 nonexperimental studies from those included in the previous version of the review. Eleven experimental studies allocated a total of 1795 participants to either green tea extract or placebo, all demonstrating an overall high methodological quality based on 'Risk of bias' assessment. For incident prostate cancer, the summary risk ratio (RR) in the green tea-supplemented participants was 0.50 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.18 to 1.36), based on three studies and involving 201 participants (low-certainty evidence). The summary RR for gynaecological cancer was 1.50 (95% CI 0.41 to 5.48; 2 studies, 1157 participants; low-certainty evidence). No evidence of effect of non-melanoma skin cancer emerged (summary RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.06 to 15.92; 1 study, 1075 participants; low-certainty evidence). In addition, adverse effects of green tea extract intake were reported, including gastrointestinal disorders, elevation of liver enzymes, and, more rarely, insomnia, raised blood pressure and skin/subcutaneous reactions. Consumption of green tea extracts induced a slight improvement in quality of life, compared with placebo, based on three experimental studies. In nonexperimental studies, we included over 1,100,000 participants from 46 cohort studies and 85 case-control studies, which were on average of intermediate to high methodological quality based on Newcastle-Ottawa Scale 'Risk of bias' assessment. When comparing the highest intake of green tea with the lowest, we found a lower overall cancer incidence (summary RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.65 to 1.07), based on three studies, involving 52,479 participants (low-certainty evidence). Conversely, we found no association between green tea consumption and cancer-related mortality (summary RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.91 to 1.07), based on eight studies and 504,366 participants (low-certainty evidence). For most of the site-specific cancers we observed a decreased RR in the highest category of green tea consumption compared with the lowest one. After stratifying the analysis according to study design, we found strongly conflicting results for some cancer sites: oesophageal, prostate and urinary tract cancer, and leukaemia showed an increased RR in cohort studies and a decreased RR or no difference in case-control studies.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Overall, findings from experimental and nonexperimental epidemiological studies yielded inconsistent results, thus providing limited evidence for the beneficial effect of green tea consumption on the overall risk of cancer or on specific cancer sites. Some evidence of a beneficial effect of green tea at some cancer sites emerged from the RCTs and from case-control studies, but their methodological limitations, such as the low number and size of the studies, and the inconsistencies with the results of cohort studies, limit the interpretability of the RR estimates. The studies also indicated the occurrence of several side effects associated with high intakes of green tea. In addition, the majority of included studies were carried out in Asian populations characterised by a high intake of green tea, thus limiting the generalisability of the findings to other populations. Well conducted and adequately powered RCTs would be needed to draw conclusions on the possible beneficial effects of green tea consumption on cancer risk.

A Benzothiazole-Based Fluorescent Probe for Ratiometric Detection of Al3+ and Its Application in Water Samples and Cell Imaging

An easily prepared benzothiazole-based probe (BHM) was prepared and characterized by general spectra, including ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, HRMS, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Based on the synergistic mechanism of the inhabitation of intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), the BHM displayed high selectivity and sensitivity for Al³⁺ in DMF/H₂O (v/v, 1/1) through an obvious blue-shift in the fluorescent spectrum and significant color change detected by the naked eye, respectively. The binding ratio of BHM with Al³⁺ was 1:1, as determined by the Job plot, and the binding details were investigated using FT-IR, ¹H NMR titration, and ESI-MS analysis. Furthermore, the BHM was successfully applied in the detection of Al³⁺ in the Songhua River and on a test stripe. Fluorescence imaging experiments confirmed that the BHM could be used to monitor Al³⁺ in human stromal cells (HSC).

Aggregated aluminium exposure: risk assessment for the general population

Aluminium is one of the most abundant elements in earth's crust and its manifold uses result in an exposure of the population from many sources. Developmental toxicity, effects on the urinary tract and neurotoxicity are known effects of aluminium and its compounds. Here, we assessed the health risks resulting from total consumer exposure towards aluminium and various aluminium compounds, including contributions from foodstuffs, food additives, food contact materials (FCM), and cosmetic products. For the estimation of aluminium contents in foodstuff, data from the German "Pilot-Total-Diet-Study" were used, which was conducted as part of the European TDS-Exposure project. These were combined with consumption data from the German National Consumption Survey II to yield aluminium exposure via food for adults. It was found that the average weekly aluminium exposure resulting from food intake amounts to approx. 50% of the tolerable weekly intake (TWI) of 1 mg/kg body weight (bw)/week, derived by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). For children, data from the French "Infant Total Diet Study" and the "Second French Total Diet Study" were used to estimate aluminium exposure via food. As a result, the TWI can be exhausted or slightly exceeded-particularly for infants who are not exclusively breastfed and young children relying on specially adapted diets (e.g. soy-based, lactose free, hypoallergenic). When taking into account the overall aluminium exposure from foods, cosmetic products (cosmetics), pharmaceuticals and FCM from uncoated aluminium, a significant exceedance of the EFSA-derived TWI and even the PTWI of 2 mg/kg bw/week, derived by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, may occur. Specifically, high exposure levels were found for adolescents aged 11-14 years. Although exposure data were collected with special regard to the German population, it is also representative for European and comparable to international consumers. From a toxicological point of view, regular exceedance of the lifetime tolerable aluminium intake (TWI/PTWI) is undesirable, since this results in an increased risk for health impairments. Consequently, recommendations on how to reduce overall aluminium exposure are given.