Assessment of human health hazards associated with the dietary exposure to organic and inorganic contaminants through the consumption of fishery products in Spain

Human Exposure through the Diet to Arsenic and Other Toxic Elements: A Literature Review of Scientific Studies Conducted in Catalonia, Spain, in the Current Century

Human exposure to arsenic and other toxic elements such as cadmium, lead and mercury may lead to a wide range of adverse health effects. In relation to this, it is well established that the diet is the main route of exposure to both essential and toxic trace elements. In recent years, the levels of toxic elements in foodstuffs have been measured in numerous studies conducted all over the world. Scientific databases show that, in the current century, China and Spain have been the countries where the most surveys on this topic have been carried out. Regarding Spain, Catalonia is the region where most studies aimed at determining the concentrations of trace elements in food have been performed. The objective of this paper was to review the studies carried out in Catalonia on the concentrations of As and toxic metals (including Cd, Hg and Pb) in food, as well as their estimated dietary intakes (EDIs). The results of total diet studies (TDSs) and duplicate diet (DD) studies have been included. For most toxic elements, a continued reduction in the EDI has been observed. This reduction is associated with a decrease in their concentrations in food, and with certain changes in dietary habits. Fish and seafood is the food group showing the highest content of toxic elements. However, none of the adult groups exceeded-in general-the safety thresholds for As, Cd, Hg and Pb established by the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA).

POPs and PAHs in fish oil-based food supplements at the Czech market

The objectives of this study were to assess concentrations of three groups of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in 44 fish oil-based food supplements, to estimate their daily intake by consumers and, to evaluate the compliance of the oil samples with the oil origin declarations (cod liver oil or fish oil). The concentrations of ∑PCBs (7 congeners), OCPs (19 compounds, represented mainly by ∑DDTs), ∑PBDEs (10 congeners), and ∑PAHs (16 compounds) found in samples ranged between 0.15-55.7 µg kg-1, 0.93-72.8 µg kg-1, 0.28-27.5 µg kg-1, and 0.32-51.9 µg kg-1, respectively. Besides, the authenticity of the oils was assessed based on the fingerprints obtained by DART-HRMS, an ambient mass spectrometry technique. Four samples declared as fish oil were probably prepared from cod liver oil, which is much cheaper. Furthermore, these samples contained elevated concentrations of halogenated POPs when compared to supplements produced from fish oil.

A national-scale distribution of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in cropland soils and major types of food crops in China: Co-occurrence and associated risks

Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that resist degradation in the environment. OCPs remain detectable in cropland systems in China. However, spatial distribution of OCPs across China and associated ecological and health risks, as well as the relationship between levels of OCPs in cropland soils and crops, remain to be elucidated. To fill these gaps, we conducted a national-scale characterization of 19 individual OCPs in cropland soils and food crops including cereals and legumes in China, which were on-spot sampled simultaneously. Sparse canonical correlation analysis was employed to investigate the co-occurrence of OCPs in cropland soils and corresponding food crops. The ecological soil screening levels and risk quotient method were adopted for ecological and health risk assessment, respectively. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) were dominant in cropland systems, with its levels ranging up to 337 and 22.8 μg/kg in cropland soils and food crops, respectively. The mean ∑OCP levels in cropland soils varied from below the limit of detection to 337 μg/kg. Peanuts were the most contaminated crop, in which endosulfans and hexachlorobenzene (HCB) were co-occurrent with those in cropland soils (correlation coefficient R = 0.999 and 0.947, respectively). Besides, lindane and β-endosulfan in rice were co-occurrent with those in cropland soils (R = 0.810 and 0.868, respectively). The componential ratio analysis indicated fresh inputs of technical DDT, lindane, chlordane, endosulfan, HCB and aldrin. Among these pesticides, ecological impacts of DDTs, lindane, aldrin and β-endosulfan could be expected. Human health risk assessment suggested that daily consumption of the OCP-contaminated food crops raises a health concern especially for male teens. It is concluded that OCPs remain present in cropland systems in China at levels that raise a concern for both environment and human health.

Determination of heavy metals from Aloe vera by- product in golden mullet (Liza aurata); A consumer health risk assessment

Heavy metals have become subject of concern in the recent years because of its potency to cause cardiovascular diseases and other toxic health effects. Therefore, this research was assumed to investigate the level of toxicity in terms of heavy metals accumulation in the fish samples and its benefits and risk for human consumers health and also evaluate the partial replacement of plant sources by canarian Aloe vera diets as a pure product or like a by-product on toxicological effects on the golden mullet (Liza aurata) fillet and whole body. In this study risks arising from fish metal content has been measured using various parameters as Estimated Daily Intake (EDI), Maximum Safe Consumption (MSC_A), Target Hazard quotient (THQ), Hazard Index (HI) Carcinogenic risk of As (As- CR), the Value Selenium Health Benefit (Se HBV) and also the Nutritional Values has been evaluated. The results showed that all heavy metal levels in the fish tissue and diets were below the confirmed safe limits for consumption. In case of diets, it is obvious that with the exception of As, Hg, and Se, the presence of heavy or essential metals in both whole fish and raw fillet in golden grey mullet given experimental diets revealed that the whole fish had the highest concentration. Thus, it can be concluded that Aloe vera product and byproduct were in safety limits for fish and also for humans through food chain. Various risk and benefit assessment measures established by national and international authorities concluded that Liza aurata use was mostly safe.

A large geographic-scale characterization of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in surface sediments and multiple aquatic foods of inland freshwater aquaculture ponds in China: Co-occurrence, source and risk assessment

Inland freshwater aquaculture ponds (IFAPs) represent the key component of the global lentic freshwater environment and are increasingly important for global aquaculture production, yet the occurrence of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in these pond systems remains largely unknown. Here, we characterized the residual concentrations of 19 individual OCPs in sediments and in cultured fish and crustacean species (crabs, shrimp, crayfish and lobster), which were on-spot sampled from the IFAPs at a large region-scale in China. The total OCP levels in sediments varied dramatically between regions. Crabs presented the greatest OCP contamination among the studied species. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs) was the dominating contaminant in sediments and crabs and its stable degradation products 4,4'-DDE and 4,4'-DDD were co-occurrent between these two compartments. The diagnostic ratio analysis indicated fresh inputs of DDTs, lindane and aldrin in multiple regions, which may be resulted from agricultural soil erosion, surface runoff and local anthropogenic activities. Ecological impacts of these pesticides could be expected at some sites due to their levels in sediments above the risk level. Risk assessment based on the OCP levels corrected by the cooking loss revealed that daily consumption of the IFAPs-derived aquatic foods may pose carcinogenic risks in humans.

Recreational fishing, health and well-being: findings from a cross-sectional survey

We evaluated the associations between marine recreational fishing, stress, seafood consumption, and sleep quality in a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of a convenience sample of 244 fishers recruited in 2019 in Spain. Fishers' stress levels were moderate, with a mean stress index score of 36.4 units on a scale from 14 (very low stress) to 70 (very high). Their average emotional condition was positive, with a mean index of negative affect of 7.8 units on a scale from 5 (very low negative affect) to 25 (very high). Seafood intake was low, with a mean index of seafood in diets of 38.0 units on a scale from 20 (very low seafood consumption) to 160 (very high). Fishers' perceived quality of night sleep was good because the mean index of sleep problems was 39.5 units on a scale from 21 (very low sleep problems) to 107 (very high). Each hour of self-reported monthly fishing activity was associated with 0.016 units of lower stress score. Thus, the most engaged fishers reported up to 15.4% lower stress score than less avid fishers. Since recreational fishing is a highly accessible outdoor activity for people in older age groups, it is possible that public health could be improved by access to sustainably managed recreational fisheries. Fishing engagement was positively associated with seafood intake. Each hour of fishing per month was associated with one-unit higher seafood consumption. The higher seafood consumption observed among avid recreational fishers compared with less avid fishers might have health implications.

Ecotoxicology of mercury in burbot (Lota lota) from interior Alaska and insights towards human health

Fish consumption has many health benefits, but exposure to contaminants, such as mercury (Hg), in fish tissue can be detrimental to human health. The Tanana River drainage, Alaska, USA supports the largest recreational harvest of burbot (Lota lota) in the state, yet information to evaluate the potential risks of consumption by humans is lacking. To narrow this knowledge gap, we sought to (i) quantify the concentrations of total Hg ([THg]) in burbot muscle and liver tissue and the ratio between the two tissues, (ii) assess the effect of age, length, and sex on [THg] in muscle and liver tissue, (iii) evaluate if [THg] in muscle tissue varied based on trophic information, and (iv) compare observed [THg] to consumption guidelines and statewide baseline data. The mean [THg] was 268.2 ng/g ww for muscle tissue and 62.3 ng/g ww for liver tissue. Both muscle [THg] and liver [THg] values were positively associated with fish length. Trophic information (δ¹⁵N and δ¹³C) was not significantly related to measured [THg] in burbot muscle, which is inconsistent with typical patterns of biomagnification observed in other fishes. All burbot sampled were within the established categories for consumption recommendations determined by the State of Alaska for women of childbearing age and children. Our results provide the necessary first step towards informed risk assessment of burbot consumption in the Tanana drainage and offer parallels to fisheries and consumers throughout the subarctic and Arctic region.

Correlation between As, Cd, Hg, Pb and Sn concentration in human milk and breastfeeding mothers' food consumption: a systematic review and infants' health risk assessment

Mothers' food and water consumption appear to be determining factors for infants' potentially toxic elements exposure through human milk. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to assess correlations between As, Cd, Hg, Pb and/or Sn concentration in human milk and breastfeeding mothers' food consumption, with later infants' health risk assessment. Estimated Daily Intakes of such elements by infants were also calculated and compared with reference values (RfD or BMDL01). Among 5.663 identified studies, 23 papers remained for analysis. Potentially toxic elements concentration in human milk presented positive correlation with seafood (As, Hg), fresh vegetables (Hg, Cd), cereals (Hg, Cd), cheese, rice, potatoes, private and well-water supply (Pb), wild meat (Pb, Cd) and milk, dairy products, dried fruits and oilseeds (Cd) mothers' consumption. Red meat, caffeinated drinks, and dairy products consume presented negative correlations (Pb). No correlations were found for Sn. Infants from three studies presented high Hg exposition through human milk (> 0. 1 μg/kg PC-1 day-1), as well as observed for Pb in one study (> 0. 5 μg/kg PC-1 day-1). Potentially toxic elements can damage infants' health when they are present in mothers' diet due to the infants' high vulnerability. Therefore, these results raise important issues for public health.Supplemental data for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.1080/10408398.2022.2056869 .

Trace elements in seabass, farmed by Turkey, and health risks to the main consumers: Turkish and Dutch populations

Turkey ranked first in sea bass farming in Europe, and almost all extra-EU seabass come from this country. The share of Turkish sea bass in the fish consumption of Europeans has increased significantly, and assessment of potential health risks of trace metals via sea bass, cultured by Turkey, became important. The Netherlands is the main buyer of the Turkish sea bass. Therefore, potential health risks were determined for Turkish and Dutch consumers. In the study, the concentrations of lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) were below the limits, but the level of cadmium (Cd) was above the guidelines, in spring and winter. Dietary intake and potential health risk were found higher for the Dutch consumer, but all target hazard quotients (THQs) and total THQ (TTHQ) values were well below 1, showing no significant health risk due to the consumption of sea bass, cultured and exported by Turkey. It was determined that these sea basses can be safely consumed in quite high amounts, such as at least 31 meals a month. Se/Hg molar ratios were all above 1 and selenium health benefit values (Se-HBVs) were positive, indicating that selenium (Se) had a protective effect on Hg toxicity and positive health effects. Considering the average annual intake in Turkey and Netherlands, the consumption of sea bass, cultured by Turkey, is safe. Since the risk levels of communities may differ due to their eating habits, it is important to determine the public health impacts of the international fish trade.

The exposure of OPFRs in fish from aquaculture area: Backward tracing of the ecological risk regulation

In this study, we backward traced and controlled the pollution of organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) in aquaculture areas from the standpoints of terminal treatment, migration and transformation resistance, and source molecular substitution technology. A regulatory plan to considerably reduce the combined biotoxicity of fish exposed to OPFRs in aquaculture areas and significantly improves the biodegradation of sewage treatment and the efficiency of soil plant-microorganism combined remediation was formulated. Environmentally friendly alternatives of OPFRs were designed. The supplementation scheme of aquatic feed significantly alleviates the toxicity risk of fish exposure to OPFRs in aquafarm (reduced by 121.02%). The regulatory scheme of external stimulus to enhance the biodegradation of OPFRs in wastewater treatment process included an H₂O₂ concentration of 400 mg/L, voltage gradient of 1.5 V/m, and pH of 6.5 can improve the degradation capacity of OPFRs molecules by 88.86%. The degradation of OPFRs can be enhanced by plant-microorganism combined remediation (up to 98.64%) by growing plants whose primary function is phytoextraction in soils dominated by Sphingopyxis sp. and Rhodococcus sp. A 3D-QSAR pharmacophore model based on apoptosis toxicity, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress response, reproductive, neurotoxicity, gill-inhalation combined toxicity of fish exposed to OPFRs in aquafarm was fabricated. The recommended aquatic feed scheme and the control scheme of enhanced degradation of OPFRs by sewage treatment and soil environment had better applicability for the new-designed OPFRs substitution molecules (the maximum combined toxicity/degradation is reduced/increased by 75.46% and 63.24%, respectively). In this paper, a technical scheme of OPFRs terminal treatment, process regulation, and source control was applied as a cradle-to-grave approach to reduce the ecological toxicity risk of fish exposed to OPFRs in aquaculture areas providing theoretical support for the realization of OPFRs environmental pollution control.

Additive and Interactive Associations of Environmental and Sociodemographic Factors with the Genotypes of Three Glutathione S-Transferase Genes in Relation to the Blood Arsenic Concentrations of Children in Jamaica

Arsenic (As) is a metalloid that has been classified as a xenobiotic with toxic effects on human beings, especially on children. Since the soil in Jamaica contains As, dietary intake is considered the main source of As exposure in Jamaicans. In addition, glutathione S-transferase (GST) genes, including GSTT1, GSTP1, and GSTM1, play an important role in the metabolism of xenobiotics including As in humans. Using data from 375 typically developing children (2–8 years) in Jamaica, we investigated the environmental and sociodemographic factors, as well as their possible interactions with the children’s genotype for GST genes in relation to having a detectable level of blood As concentration (i.e., >1.3 μg/L). Using multivariable logistic regression, we have identified environmental factors significantly associated with blood As concentrations that include a child’s age, parental education levels, and the consumption of saltwater fish, cabbage, broad beans, and avocado (all p < 0.01). Based on the multivariable analysis including gene x environment interactions, we found that among children with the Ile/Ile genotype for GSTP1 Ile105Val, children who consumed avocado had higher odds of having a detectable blood As concentration compared to children who did not eat avocado.

Data analysis strategies for the characterization of chemical contaminant mixtures. Fish as a case study

Thousands of chemicals are potentially contaminating the environment and food resources, covering a wide spectrum of molecular structures, physico-chemical properties, sources, environmental behavior and toxic profiles. Beyond the description of the individual chemicals, characterizing contaminant mixtures in related matrices has become a major challenge in ecological and human health risk assessments. Continuous analytical developments, in the fields of targeted (TA) and non-targeted analysis (NTA), have resulted in ever larger sets of data on associated chemical profiles. More than ever, the implementation of advanced data analysis strategies is essential to elucidate profiles and extract new knowledge from these large data sets. Specifically focusing on the data analysis step, this review summarizes the recent progress in integrating data analysis tools into TA and NTA workflows to address the challenging characterization of chemical mixtures in environmental and food matrices. As fish matrices are relevant in both aquatic pollution and consumer exposure perspectives, fish was chosen as the main theme to illustrate this review, although the present document is equally relevant to other food and environmental matrices. The key features of TA and NTA data sets were reviewed to illustrate the challenges associated with their analysis. Advanced filtering strategies to mine NTA data sets are presented, with a particular focus on chemical filters and discriminant analysis. Further, the applications of supervised and unsupervised multivariate analysis methods to characterize exposure to chemical mixtures, and their associated challenges, is discussed.

A Method Scope Extension for the Simultaneous Analysis of POPs, Current-Use and Banned Pesticides, Rodenticides, and Pharmaceuticals in Liver. Application to Food Safety and Biomonitoring

The screening of hundreds of substances belonging to multiple chemical classes in liver is required in areas such as food safety or biomonitoring. We adapted a previous QuEChERS-based method in blood to the liver matrix and applied to these fields of study. The validation of the method allowed the inclusion of 351 contaminants, 80% with a LOQ < 2 ng/g. In the analysis of 42 consumer liver samples, we detected trace levels of 29 different contaminants. The most frequent and concentrated was 4,4’-DDE. POPs accounted for 66% of the compounds detected. In no case was the MRL reached for any of the contaminants detected. We also applied the method to 151 livers of wild birds to perform a biomonitoring pilot study in the Canary Islands. We detected 52 contaminants in 15 bird species. These were also mostly POPs, although high frequencies and concentrations of anticoagulant rodenticides (AR) and some other agricultural pesticides also stand out. POPs and AR contamination levels were significantly higher in terrestrial birds, raptors and particularly in nocturnal birds. Pesticide contamination levels were also higher in terrestrial birds, as well as in non-raptors and diurnal birds. The validated method is simple, robust, and sensitive and performs well in a variety of practical scenarios, where it can be carried out relatively quickly and inexpensively.

Organochlorines and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons as fingerprint of exposure pathways from marine sediments to biota

To elucidate the dynamics of a suite of organochlorine contaminants (PCBs, HCB), PAHs and Hg and verify the potential of these pollutants as reliable fingerprints of sources, an ensemble of marine sediments and organisms (finfish, shellfish species and Mytilus galloprovincialis) were analysed from the contaminated Augusta Bay (Southern Italy). The Hg and HCB concentration in the sediments exceeded the EQS of the Directive 2000/60/EU. Similarly, ∑PCB and selected PAHs were above the threshold limit set by regulation. The marine organisms showed Hg concentrations above CE 1881/2006. Contaminants in transplanted mussel evidenced an increased accumulation overtime and different distribution patterns between sampling sites. Analysis of the homolog composition of PCB congeners revealed comparable patterns between sediments and marine organisms and offered the opportunity to define a robust fingerprint for tracing contaminants transfer from the abiotic to the biotic compartments. These results were confirmed by the Fluoranthene/Pyrene, Hg and HCB distribution modes.

Consumption of freshwater fish: A variable but significant risk factor for PFOS exposure

PFOS, PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS are the PFAS substances that currently contribute most to human exposure, and in 2020 the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) presented a draft opinion on a tolerable intake of 8 ng/kg/week for the sum of these four substances (equaling 0.42 μg/kg if expressed as an annual dose). Diet is usually the dominating exposure pathway, and in particular the intake of PFOS has been shown to be strongly related to the consumption of fish and seafood. Those who eat freshwater fish may be especially at risk since freshwater and its biota typically display higher PFOS concentrations than marine systems. In this study, we estimated the range in PFOS intake among average Swedish "normal" and "high" consumers of freshwater fish. By average we mean persons of average weight who eat average-sized portions. The "normal consumers" were assumed to eat freshwater fish 3 times per year, and the "high consumers" once a week. Under these assumptions, the yearly tolerable intake for "normal" and "high" consumers is reached when the PFOS concentrations in fish equals 59 and 3.4 μg per kg fish meat. For this study, PFOS concentrations in the muscle tissue of edible-sized perch, pike and pikeperch were retrieved from three different Swedish datasets, covering both rural and urban regions and a total of 78 different inland waters. Mean PFOS concentrations in fish from these sites varied from 0.3 to 750 μg/kg. From the available data, the annual min-max dietary PFOS intake for male "normal consumers" was found to be in the range 0.0021-5.4 μg/kg/yr for the evaluated scenarios, with median values of 0.02-0.16 μg/kg/yr. For male "high consumers", the total intake range was estimated to be 0.04-93 μg/kg/yr, with median values being 0.27-1.6 μg/kg/yr. For women, the exposure estimates were slightly lower, about 79% of the exposure in men. Despite highly variable PFOS concentrations in fish from different sites, we conclude that the three most commonly consumed freshwater species in Sweden constitute an important source for the total annual intake even for people who eat this kind of fish only a few times per year. The analyses of PFOA, PFNA and PFHxS showed values which were all below detection limit, and their contribution to the total PFAS intake via freshwater fish consumption is negligible in comparison to PFOS.

Arsenic in shellfish: A systematic review of its dynamics and potential health risks

Arsenic is the most toxic element for humans. Presenting naturally in aquatic ecosystems and due to anthropogenic action, this semi-metal transfers to shellfish through the food chain. This systematic review aims to explain the dynamic of arsenic in the marine aquatic system, investigating factors that affect its bioaccumulation. A total of 64 articles were considered from three databases. The key abiotic factor influencing the presence of arsenic in shellfish is anthropogenic contamination, followed by geographic location. The crucial biotic factor is the genetics of each species of shellfish, including their diet habits, habitat close to the sediment, metabolic abilities, physiological activities of organisms, and metal levels in their habitats and food. Finally, arsenic presents an affinity for specific tissues in shellfish. Despite containing mostly less toxic organic arsenic, shellfish are a relevant source of arsenic in the human diet.

Bioaccumulation and human health risk assessment of DDT and its metabolites (DDTs) in yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) and their prey from the South China Sea

DDTs were detected in yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares, 92.1-221.8 ng‧g^-1 lipid weight) and their prey (54.9-93.5 ng‧g^-1 lipid weight) from the South China Sea (SCS). DDT levels reported in this study were lower than those of the previous studies indicated the recent mitigation of DDT contamination in the SCS. Higher DDT levels were observed in fat abdominal muscle than lean dorsal muscle in adult yellowfin tuna. Meanwhile, DDT levels in adult yellowfin tuna were higher than the young ones. The composition profiles of DDT and its metabolites suggested DDTs in fish in the SCS were mainly derived from the historical use of technical DDTs. DDTs were biomagnified through food chains with the trophic magnification factor of 2.5. Risk assessment results indicated that dietary exposure to DDTs through lifetime fish consumption from the SCS would pose little cancer and noncarcinogenic risk to coastal residents.

Mother-child transfer rates of organohalogen compounds up to four years of age

BACKGROUND

Breastfed children absorb persistent and toxic chemicals such as organohalogen compounds (OHCs) during the entire lactation period. Nursing is a main contributor to the burden of these pollutants in the first years of life, hence further assessments on the OHC load processes are needed.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the determinants of OHC increase in children at four years of age, considering concentration gains, maternal venous concentrations and breastfeeding time.

METHODS

Concentrations of 19 organochlorine compounds (OCs) and 14 polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) were analyzed in maternal venous (n = 466), cord blood (n = 326) and children venous serum at four years of age (n = 272) in the Asturias INMA cohort representing the Spanish general population. Data were evaluated considering the socio-demographic and individual information collected at recruitment and follow up surveys, as well as the OHC physical-chemical constants.

RESULTS

The four years-old children concentration gains of the most abundant OHCs showed strong correlations (R² = 0.65-0.93) with the maternal concentrations during pregnancy and lactation period. The child gain/maternal transfer rates of most correlated pollutants were similar.

DISCUSSION

Between 65 and 93% of the variance of OCs in four years-old children was explained by the maternal concentrations during pregnancy and the lactation period. The compounds with log(Kow) > 3.7 (hydrophobic) showed analogous child gain/maternal transfer rates indicating similar processes of membrane lipid dissolution and passive diffusion from the epithelial cells into the milk. Molecular weight of these pollutants did not influence on these rates. Compounds with low log(Koa) such as hexachlorobenzene are more volatile and less retained, involving lower child gain/maternal transfer rates. These results may be useful to anticipate the increase of the concentrations of OCs in children using the maternal concentration of these compounds during pregnancy and the planned lactation period and to implement prophylactic measures in mothers with high venous pollutant concentrations.

Organic pollutants in marine plastic debris from Canary Islands beaches

Given their capacity to adsorb chemical pollutants, microplastics represent a growing environmental concern in the oceans. The levels of 81 chemical compounds in two types of beached microplastic (pellets and fragments) were monitored across the Canary Islands (Spain). The highest concentrations were found for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) (52.1-17,023.6ng/g and 35.1-8725.8ng/g for pooled pellets and fragments, respectively). The polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) concentrations were 0.9-2285.8 and 1.6-772.5ng/g for pooled pellets and fragments, respectively, whereas organochlorine pesticides (OCP) ranged from 0.4-13,488.7 and 0.4-3778.8ng/g, respectively. The sum of polychlorinated biphenyls and diphenyl-dichloro-ethane (DDT) metabolites was significantly higher in beaches on Gran Canaria, which is the most populated and industrialized island. The sum of ultraviolet filters (UV-filters) was higher in those beaches more frequented by tourists (Famara and Las Canteras), than in occasionally or very rarely visited beaches (Cuervitos and Lambra), with values ranging from 0 to 37,740.3ng/g and 3.7-2169.3ng/g for pellets and fragments, respectively. Furthermore, the sum of brominated diphenyl ethers (BDE) (0-180.58ng/g for pooled pellets and 0.06-3923.9ng/g for pooled fragments) and organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFR) (20.0-378.0ng/g for pooled pellets, and 22.6-7013.9ng/g for pooled fragments) was significantly higher in an urban beach (Las Canteras) than in the rest of the studied beaches. Finally, the concentrations of the pesticide chlorpyrifos were much higher on Gran Canaria beaches than in the rest. In this research we provide further evidence of the important role of plastic debris in the adsorption of a wide range of marine pollutants. The regional pattern of chemical contamination of plastics reveals that the sorption of many compounds probably occurs in coastal waters. Further investigation is necessary to understand the relationship between plastic types and adsorption of different pollutants, especially for emerging pollutants.

Indicator PCBs in farmed and wild fish in Greece - Risk assessment for the Greek population

Health benefits of fish consumption could be counterbalanced by the intake of contaminants after long term fish consumption, burdened even in trace levels. The presence of the indicator PCBs (NDL-PCBs and PCB 118) in farmed and wild seabream and seabass was evaluated. For the determination of PCB, a GC-MS method was developed and evaluated. The association of PCB accumulation in fish with seasonality, locality, production mode and species was also investigated. A new approach for the risk characterisation after exposure to NDL-PCB through fish consumption in Greece was developed, based on the real exposure and the permitted maximum levels of both aggregated dietary exposure and exposure through fish consumption. PCB levels determined in fish were below established permitted limits (6.24 ng/g 95th percentile), while PCB levels and congener distribution varied significantly between farmed and wild fish (p = 0.001). Seasonality was highlighted as an important factor affecting NDL-PCBs accumulation, with high levels coinciding with the reproduction period of each species. Differences were also depicted for sampling sites, with PCB 118 presenting significantly higher values in open seas while NDL-PCB congeners in closed seas. Risk assessment of NDL-PCB intake through fish consumption corrected for the aggregated exposure revealed no risk for the consumers.

Benzo(a)pyrene inhibits the accumulation and toxicity of cadmium in subcellular fractions of Eisenia fetida

Cadmium (Cd) and benzo [a]pyrene (BaP) often co-occur in the environment, and the critical body residue of organisms is used as an indicator of the toxic effects of contaminants. However, little is known about their distributions and toxicities when pollution of Cd and BaP are combined. Semi-static solution culture experiment was used to study the impacts of BaP on the subcellular distribution of the toxic metal Cd in the earthworm Eisenia fetida. We explored the mechanisms by which this organism responds to combined exposure to these pollutants by measuring the protein content of each of three subcellular fractions, as well as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities. The subcellular partitioning of Cd was heterogeneous and Cd mainly accumulated in the cytosolic fraction (Fraction C), which was previously reported to be involved in metal immobilization. In Fraction C, Cd accumulation was correlated with the external concentration to which the earthworm had been exposed; however, in the presence of BaP, Cd accumulation was inhibited and plateaued at high external Cd concentrations. A principal component analysis revealed that this decreased Cd accumulation might be caused by increases in GST activity, which likely increased the excretion of Cd. BaP was also found to stimulate protein biosynthesis and upregulate AChE and GST activities in the debris fraction (Fraction E), indicating other potential detoxification mechanisms in this fraction. Granule fraction (Fraction D) had a lower protein content, AChE and GST activities than the other subcellular fractions, supporting previous findings that Fraction D is largely inert.

Systematic review of arsenic in fresh seafood from the Mediterranean Sea and European Atlantic coasts: A health risk assessment

Arsenic in the environment pose major threats to human health, and especially the inorganic form can result in adverse health effects. This review analyse papers from 2004 to 2017 on As in fresh fish and molluscs caught in the Mediterranean sea and the European coast of the Atlantic ocean allowing the identification of the marine area with a greater As bioavailability and in particular the identification of the European populations more exposed to In-As by consuming fresh seafood. Results were separated on the base of the fishing site and the concentrations were reworked to assess the average daily intake to In-As as well as Target Hazard Quotient and Cancer Risk. Overall, the greater availability in Tot-As concentration in the pelagic compartment found in the Mediterranean Sea is not present along the European coasts of Atlantic Ocean. Furthermore, only in the Mediterranean Sea, results highlighted significant differences between Tot-As concentrations in seafood subgroups. In both areas, In-As concentrations showed the following trend: molluscs > pelagic > demersal with significant differences between subgroups. The European populations more exposed to In-As from fish and molluscs are the French, Spanish, Italian and Greek, with particular regards to children of 3-6 years old, which should minimize the consumption of molluscs to avoid carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks.

Cadmium, lead and mercury in muscle tissue of gilthead seabream and seabass: Risk evaluation for consumers

Cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg) presence was investigated in the muscle tissue of gilthead seabream and seabass, collected from various aquaculture sites of the Aegean and Cretan Sea as well as from the fish market (fisheries). Risk for the Greek population through consumption of these species was estimated using two approaches: Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Hazard Index (HI). All heavy metal levels in the fish tissue were below the established safe limits for consumption. Metal accumulation was found to differ amongst mode of production, species, location and seasonality. Seabass demonstrated higher Hg and lower Cd concentrations than seabream, Hg and Pb seem to be more accumulated in closed seas and Pb values displayed a linear increasing trend from warmer to colder periods. Regression analysis revealed that the main contributing factor to Cd accumulation is species (beta: -0.28, 95%CI: -0.48 to -0.09); lead is predominately affected by seasonality (beta: 0.44, 95%CI: 0.29 to 0.59), Hg accumulation is mainly affected by location (beta: -0.32, 95%CI: -0.61 to -0.03) while wild seabream accumulates greater levels for Hg and Pb than farmed. Risk analysis demonstrated that consumption of the studied species, is safe for all metals (HI < 0.460 and TTHQ < 0.299).

Bioaccumulation of trace metals in aquatic food web. A case study, Liaodong Bay, NE China

The recently developed modelling tool MERLIN-Expo was applied to support the exposure assessment of an aquatic food web to trace metals in a coastal environment. The exposure scenario, built on the data from Daliao River estuary in the Liaodong Bay (Bohai Sea, China), affected by long-term and large-scale industrial activities as well as rapid urbanization in Liao River watershed, represents an interesting case-study for ecological exposure modelling due to the availability of local data on metal concentrations in water and sediment. The bioaccumulation of selected trace metals in aquatic organisms was modelled and compared with field data from local aquatic organisms. Both model results and experimental data demonstrated that As, Cd, Cu, Ni, Pb and Zn, out of examined metals, were accumulated most abundantly by invertebrates and less by higher trophic level species. The body parts of the sampled animals with the highest measured concentration of metals were predominantly muscles, intestine and liver and fish skin in the case of Cr. The Morris and extended Fourier Analysis (EFAST) were used to account for variability in selected parameters of the bioaccumulation model. Food assimilation efficiency and slopes and intercepts of two sub-models for calculating metal specific BCFs (BCF_metal-exposure concentration) and fish weight (Weight_fish-Length_fish) were identified as the most influential parameters on ecological exposure to selected metals.

Reduction of persistent and semi-persistent organic pollutants in fillets of farmed European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) fed low fish oil diets

Traditionally, a major part of aquaculture technology requires fish oil (FO) and fish meal (FM) to produce the aquafeed for farmed species. FO is the main source of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in fish feed. In recent years, the use of vegetable-origin ingredients in fish feeds has been increasingly studied as an alternative to reduce the levels of these lipophilic pollutants in farmed species. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the use of dietary vegetable oils in the farming of European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) on the contents in persistent - polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) - and semi persistent pollutants - polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (BDEs) - of their edible parts. A total of 60 seabass muscle pools were obtained from fish farmed employing six experimental diets, which contained different percentages of FO (6 vs. 3%) and FM (20%, 10% and 5%). We did not observe differences in the contamination level of seabass muscle in relation to the percentage of FM in their diet. However, the fish farmed using feed which had lower levels of FO (3%) showed significantly lower muscle levels of ΣPCBs and carcinogenic PAHs (Σc-PAHs), with a reduction of 25.6% and 95.11% (respectively), as compared with those fished raised with feed with higher levels of FO (6%). Also much lower levels were found in OCPs such as sum of DDTs (30.88% of reduction), sum of chlordanes (42.85% of reduction), and sum of BDEs (48.16% of reduction) in those seabass fed with a lower percentage of FO. The results of this study indicate that the use of alternative feed ingredients that allow the employment of low percentage of FO in feeds help to reduce the load of several toxic pollutants in the fillets of European seabass.

Bioaccumulation and human health risks of OCPs and PCBs in freshwater products of Northeast China

The levels and spatial distribution of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in freshwater products from Northeast China were investigated by gas chromatography coupled to isotope dilution high-resolution mass spectrometry. All samples were on-spot sampled from main production regions of freshwater products in Northeast China, and these samples were used to systematically assess the potential health risks of OCPs and PCBs associated with consumption of these fishery products. Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethanes (DDTs), hexachlorocyclohexane (HCHs), hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and PCBs were the major pollutants with 100% detection rates, and their levels ranged from 0.086 to 58, 0.038-3.3, 0.093-4.5 and 0.032-1.4 ng g^-1 wet weight, respectively. The estimated dietary intakes of these contaminants were all below their corresponding acceptable daily intakes. Significant regional differences in the levels of OCPs and PCBs (P ≦ 0.001) were found in samples from Liaoning and Inner Mongolia. The results showed that the concentrations of targeted contaminants in aquatic products had species-specific characteristics, and the levels of targeted pollutants in Oncorhynchus mykiss and Eriocheir sienesis were significantly higher than those in other aquatic product species. Advisories on ten species of aquatic products suggested that consumption of Eriocheir sinensis, Oncorhynchus mykiss and Cyprinus carpio at a rate exceeding 15 meals per month would pose a cancer risk. A health risk assessment indicated that exposure to these pollutants through freshwater products consumption would cause a non-ignorable potential carcinogenic risk to humans.

Acute coumaphos organophosphate exposure in the domestic dogs: Its implication on haematology and liver functions

Indiscriminate use of organophosphate acaricides especially among livestock and dog owners in the control of ticks and other ectoparasites has taken a worrisome dimension. In the present study, we investigated, the effects of acute dermal exposure in the form of acaricides baths of coumaphos at different concentrations on the haematology, blood pressure and liver functions in local mongrel dogs.

Twenty-four, male mongrel dogs of about 8 months of age with an average weight of 9.88 ± 0.4 kg were used for the study. The dogs were divided into four groups consisting of six dogs per group. Group A (control) was bathed with ordinary water, while group B was bathed with the recommended concentration of 0.016% (160 ppm) Coumaphos in water. Groups C and D were bathed with 10 and 20 times the recommended dose (1600 ppm and 3200 ppm), respectively.

Significant leucopenia, increased plasma urea and decreased low density lipoprotein (LDL) values were observed at 8 h post exposure, which worsened with time. At 24 and 36 hrs post exposure, normochromic normocytic anaemia, pan leucopenia, bloody diarrhoea, retching, vomiting and paddling were observed in affected animals. Post mortem examination revealed severe lungs, liver and stomach congestion. Multifocal areas of necrosis in the liver and kidney, serosal and mucosal haemorrhages and haemorrhagic meningitis were also observed.

The use of excessively high concentration of organophosphate as acaricides bath is associated with severe anticholinesterase poisoning, which may result in death of affected animals.

Drivers of the accumulation of mercury and organochlorine pollutants in Mediterranean lean fish and dietary significance

An integrated assessment of lean fish of commercial value as Hg and organochlorine compound source into the population of the Balearic Islands were reported. Dependences between pollutant concentrations, trophic level, fish species, specimen weight and physical-chemical properties were evaluated. Hg and total DDTs showed highest variability between fish species whereas PCBs and HCB displayed more constant median values. The organochlorine compounds found in highest concentrations were those with highest hydrophobicity, consistently with their higher bioaccumulation potential. These pollutant concentrations were higher in Mediterranean than Atlantic fish. Higher median total DDT and PCBs concentrations were also observed in the third than the second trophic level species. The observed concentrations were below the threshold recommended by the EU for human consumption (75ng/g wet weight). The Hg concentrations were higher in Mediterranean than Atlantic fish, with average values of 1.5μg/g ww and 0.43μg/g ww, respectively. Forty-one percent of the specimens from the Mediterranean and 25% of dusky grouper specimens from the Atlantic Ocean showed Hg concentrations above the EU recommended limits for human consumption, either 0.5μg/g ww or 1μg/g ww. In the third trophic level, a significant dependence between median Hg concentrations and weight of each studied species was observed, which remained significant in specimen weight correlations. Independent species correlations of Hg concentrations vs individual weight generally showed higher concentrations at higher weight. Weight/size of the individuals was therefore an important factor for Hg accumulation but the trend was modulated by a species effect. Extrapolation of the observed Hg concentrations in Mediterranean fish to Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intakes (PTWIs) showed higher intakes than the thresholds recommended by EFSA for adults and children, 110% and 140%, respectively. The estimated PTWIs for MeHg corresponded to 310% and 400% of the recommended threshold values. The PTWI values for organochlorine compounds were lower than those recommended.

Cadmium exposure increases the risk of juvenile obesity: a human and zebrafish comparative study

OBJECTIVE

Human obesity is a complex metabolic disorder disproportionately affecting people of lower socioeconomic strata, and ethnic minorities, especially African Americans and Hispanics. Although genetic predisposition and a positive energy balance are implicated in obesity, these factors alone do not account for the excess prevalence of obesity in lower socioeconomic populations. Therefore, environmental factors, including exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and other contaminants, are agents widely suspected to have obesogenic activity, and they also are spatially correlated with lower socioeconomic status. Our study investigates the causal relationship between exposure to the heavy metal, cadmium (Cd), and obesity in a cohort of children and in a zebrafish model of adipogenesis.

DESIGN

An extensive collection of first trimester maternal blood samples obtained as part of the Newborn Epigenetics Study (NEST) was analyzed for the presence of Cd, and these results were cross analyzed with the weight-gain trajectory of the children through age 5 years. Next, the role of Cd as a potential obesogen was analyzed in an in vivo zebrafish model.

RESULTS

Our analysis indicates that the presence of Cd in maternal blood during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of juvenile obesity in the offspring, independent of other variables, including lead (Pb) and smoking status. Our results are recapitulated in a zebrafish model, in which exposure to Cd at levels approximating those observed in the NEST study is associated with increased adiposity.

CONCLUSION

Our findings identify Cd as a potential human obesogen. Moreover, these observations are recapitulated in a zebrafish model, suggesting that the underlying mechanisms may be evolutionarily conserved, and that zebrafish may be a valuable model for uncovering pathways leading to Cd-mediated obesity in human populations.

Groundwater-based water wells characterization from Guinea Bissau (Western Africa): A risk evaluation for the local population

The study conducted in two regions of Guinea Bissau, Oio and Cacheu, focusing on the characterization of the groundwater supplies sampled during the dry season and their associated risks for human health. Twenty samples were collected in wells located nearby pit latrines. In situ analyses were conducted with Semi-quantitative test strips for the determination of turbidity, pH, chloride, carbonate, sulfites, ammonium, nitrite and nitrate. The analysis of metals was performed by an ICP-MS Elan DRC-e and an ICP-OES Optima 8000. The Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) was applied to evaluate the risk of developing chronic systemic effects derived from exposure to metals. Values of concern of turbidity ammonium, and pH values were lower than the normal range for drinking water in most samples. From both regions, Fe and Al were occasionally found with values higher than the international thresholds fixed by the World Health Organization and by the European Commission for drinking water, while, only in one sample from Cacheu region Pb was found significantly above these limits. THQs resulted next to the level of risk (1) for the highest values found of Al, As, Fe and Mn. Of great concern is the resident risk obtained from a well water of Cacheu for the highest value of Pb (96.8μg/L), because the values of the resident risk found of 1 and 0.7 for child and adults respectively. The results obtained highlighted a close correlation between the chemistry of water and sediment and a correlation with the proximity of the water supplies with the latrines. This study evidenced the potential toxicity of the water supplies for the local populations and the risk of developing chronic systemic effects due to some physico-chemical parameters, the importance of functioning water pipeline system, the importance of maintaining adequate distance between latrines and drinking water access.

Protective effects of dietary luteolin against mercuric chloride-induced lung injury in mice: Involvement of AKT/Nrf2 and NF-κB pathways

Food-derived compound luteolin possesses multiple pharmacological activities. Accordingly, we focused on exploring the protective effects of luteolin (100 mg/kg) against mercuric chloride (HgCl₂) (5 mg/kg) stimulated lung injury and the molecular mechanisms of lung protection effects in mouse. The influence of luteolin on histologic changes, oxidative stress, proinflammatory cytokine production, neutrophil activation, and apoptosis were assayed in HgCl₂-induced lung injury. Luteolin administration attenuated pulmonary histologic conditions and apoptotic change. The protective effects of luteolin might be attributed to the reduction of myeloperoxidase, inflammatory cytokines, malondialdehyde, and the increase of superoxide dismutase and glutathione. Luteolin promoted protein kinase B (AKT) phosphorylation and translocation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) into nucleus, and inhibited activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in HgCl₂-induced lung injury. Taken together, dietary luteolin may be an effective candidate for treatment of HgCl₂-induced lung injury by preventing NF-κB activation and activating AKT/Nrf2 pathway.

Arsenic speciation in fish and shellfish from the North Sea (Southern bight) and Açu Port area (Brazil) and health risks related to seafood consumption

In North Sea and Port Açu (Brazil) coastal areas, high arsenic (As) concentrations were observed in water, soil and sediments. Therefore, the impact of this contamination on fish and shellfish species bought from local fishermen was studied. Total As was assessed with ICP-OES (Brazil) and ICP-MS (North Sea) after microwave digestion. Toxic As was assessed with liquid chromatography-ICP-MS (Brazil) and hydride generation-atomic fluorescence spectrometry (North Sea). All analytical methods comply with Quality Assurance/Quality Control procedures. Several fish species have average Total As concentrations above 1 μg g-1 wet weight (ww), but the highest concentrations are found in less spotted dogfish, lemon sole and whelks from the North Sea, with respectively 50, 49 and 50 μg g-1 ww. High Total As concentrations correspond to high Toxic As concentrations, except for scallops having increased Toxic As concentrations. Toxic As fractions are highest in scallops (almost 10%) but rarely exceeds 2% in all other species. Liver samples were only analyzed in ray, dogfish and catfish and their Toxic As fractions are between 2 and 4 times higher than in muscle. For a consumption of 150 g of seafood, only 3 samples exceed the provisional total daily intake of 2 μg kg-1 bw, however, cancer risks are non-negligible. Using mean Toxic As concentrations for each of the different fish and shellfish species studied, Lifetime Cancer Risk values at the actual global seafood consumption rate of 54 g day-1 are above 10-4 for whelks, scallops, dogfish, ray and lemon sole.

Integrated assessment of infant exposure to persistent organic pollutants and mercury via dietary intake in a central western Mediterranean site (Menorca Island)

In this research the levels of organochlorine compounds (OCs) and mercury (Hg) in several food items from Menorca Island were presented. The dietary exposure assessment was performed in children population from the island. Finally, body burden of OCs and Hg in these infants were associated with their dietary intakes of the selected food items. The dietary exposure to persistent pollutants by children population from Menorca Island was assessed. The concentrations of 11 organochlorine pesticides, 6 polychlorinated biphenils (PCBs) and 1 inorganic toxic element, Hg, were determined in 46 food samples that included fish, shellfish, meat, fruit, vegetables, cheese and eggs, which were acquired in local markets and department stores in the Menorca Island. The most contaminated food items were fish and shellfish, followed by meat and cheese products. OC levels were similar or lower than in other previous studies. However, 66% of the analysed fish and shellfish species for Hg exceeded the human consumption safety limits according to the European Union Legislation. Pollutant data from food was combined with the pattern of consumption of these foodstuffs in order to calculate the estimated daily intake (EDI) of these contaminants. According to our results, fish and fruit were the main sources of OCs to the EDIs (contributing to 37% and 29%, respectively) while fish and shellfish were the main sources of Hg (76% and 17%). The estimated EDIs of OCs were well below to the reported FAO/WHO Tolerable Intakes. However, estimated weekly intake of Hg would exceed the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake indicated by EFSA in the case that the only fish and seafood source would be from the central western Mediterranean. Direct associations between fish/shellfish consumption and hair concentrations of Hg and fish and meat consumption and 4,4'-DDT concentrations in venous serum in the Menorcan children were observed.

Potential Role of Pet Cats As a Sentinel Species for Human Exposure to Flame Retardants

Flame retardants are a wide group of chemicals used by the industry to avoid combustion of materials. These substances are commonly found in plastics, electronic equipment, fabrics, and in many other everyday articles. Subsequently, ubiquitous environmental contamination by these common chemical is frequently reported. In the present study, we have evaluated the level of exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), brominated diphenyl ethers (BDEs), and organophosphorous flame retardants (OPFRs) in pet cats through the analysis of their serum. We also analyzed the level exposure to such chemicals in a series of 20 cat owners, trying to disclose the role of pet cats as sentinel species of human exposure to FRs. Our results showed that PCBs, banned 40 years ago, showed the lowest levels of exposure, followed by BDEs—banned recently. Congeners PCB-138 and PCB-180 were detected in ≥50% of the series, while BDE-47 was detected in near 90% of the pet cats. On the other hand, the highest levels were that of OPFRs, whose pattern of detection was similar to that observed in humans, thus suggesting a potential role of cats as a sentinel species for human exposure to these currently used FRs. Six out of 11 OPFRs determined [2-ethylhexyldiphenyl phosphate, tributylphosphate, triisobutylphosphate, triphenylphosphate, tris (2-chloroethyl) phosphate, and tris (2-chloroisopropyl) phosphate] were detected in 100% of the samples. It will be interesting to perform future studied aimed to elucidating the potential toxicological effects of these highly detected chemicals both, in cats and humans.

Comparative analysis of selected semi-persistent and emerging pollutants in wild-caught fish and aquaculture associated fish using Bogue (Boops boops) as sentinel species

The marine environment acts as a sink for diverse anthropogenic pollutants, although the environmental contamination may be non-uniformly distributed. In recent decades, the aquaculture sector has experienced a steady growth postulating as a good alternative for seafood production. However, a social debate exits about the differential level of pollutants in wild and farmed species. This study was designed to evaluate the level of pollutants in a sentinel species: Bogue (Boops boops) associated and non-associated to fish-farm cages. A total of 82 chemical substances were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, including persistent (polychlorobiphenyls (PCBs) and organochlorine pesticides (OCPs)), semi-persistent (bromodiphenyl ethers (BDEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)), and emerging pollutants (such as organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) and UV-filters). In general, aquaculture-associated bogues showed lower levels of semi-persistent and emerging pollutants than wild-caught fish, especially when sums were considered. Thus, sum of BDEs was significantly lower in the aquaculture group (p=0.01). A similar trend was also observed for benzo(a)anthracene, the UV-filter 2-ethylhexyl-p-methoxycinnamate and some OPFRs. In the case of persistent pollutants, the sum of dioxin-like PCBs and sum of DDTs were lower in the group of wild-caught bogues (p=0.034 and p=0.003, respectively) than in aquaculture-associated bogues, as previously described for some aquaculture species. Fish feed appear as an important factor in the uptake of such substances suggesting a diet intervention to reduce their levels in the aquaculture products. Another interesting result is that for almost all chemical substances analyzed, bogues captured near sewage outfalls showed the highest levels of pollutants, pointing out the need of stringent measures for wastewater treatment units discharging in coastal areas. On the light of these results, further research in specific farmed and wild fish species in relation to their dietary value and pollutant's levels seems to be mandatory.

Comparative study of the intake of toxic persistent and semi persistent pollutants through the consumption of fish and seafood from two modes of production (wild-caught and farmed)

Adverse effects of chemical contaminants associated with seafood counteract the undoubted benefits for the health of its valuable nutrients. So much so that many dietary guidelines recommend no more than one serving a week of fish and seafood. Although is estimated that aquaculture provides more than 50% of the fish and seafood consumed globally, few research studies have focused in the assessment of the intake of pollutants through aquaculture products. In this study we determined the levels of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and toxic elements (Pb, Cd, Ni, Al, As, and Hg) in a large sample of farmed and wild-caught seafood, and we estimated the intake of these contaminants in two hypothetical models of consumers: those consuming only farmed fish, and those consuming only wild fish. Measured levels of most organic and many inorganic pollutants were higher in aquaculture products, and consequently intake levels if only such products were consumed would be also significantly higher. Thus, the intake of ∑PAHs in adults consuming aquaculture seafood would be 3.30ng/kg-bw/day, and consuming seafood from extractive fishing 2.41ng/kg-bw/day (p<0.05); ∑OCPs, 3.36 vs. 1.85ng/kg-bw/day, respectively (p<0.05); ∑PCBs, 2.35 vs. 2.11ng/kgbw/day, respectively; and the intake of Pb, Ni, As, and Al would be also significantly higher consuming farmed seafood. For children the estimations were very similar, but the difference of intake of PCBs reached statistical significance. The implementation of several decontamination practices in aquaculture would allow not only match the levels of pollution from wild-caught seafood, but also could provide products with much lower levels of pollutants than those, which in turn would allow to increase consumption over the "one serving per week", and so benefit the consumer of the enormous positive health effects of the valuable nutrients of seafood.

Identification of an exposure risk to heavy metals from pharmaceutical-grade rubber stoppers

Exposure to low concentrations of heavy metals and metalloids represents a well-documented risk to animal and human health. However, current standards (European Pharmacopeia [EP], United States Pharmacopoeia [USP], International Organization for Standardization [ISO], YBB concerned with rubber closures) only require testing for Zn in pharmaceutical-grade rubber stoppers and then using only pure water as a solvent. We extracted and quantified heavy metals and trace elements from pharmaceutical-grade rubber stoppers under conditions that might occur during the preparation of drugs. Pure water, saline, 10% glucose, 3% acetic acid (w/v), 0.1 mol/L hydrochloric acid, and diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (4 mg/mL, 0.4 mg/mL, and 0.04 mg/mL) were used as extraction agents. We quantified the extracted arsenic, lead, antimony, iron, magnesium, aluminum, and zinc using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The concentration of extracted metals varied depending on the different extraction solutions used and between the different rubber stopper manufacturers. Rubber stoppers are ubiquitously used in the pharmaceutical industry for the storage and preparation of drugs. Extraction of heavy metals during the manufacturing and preparation of drugs represents a significant risk, suggesting a need for industry standards to focus on heavy metal migration from rubber stoppers.