Comparative analysis of rare earth elements concentrations in domestic dogs and Apennine wolves of Central Italy: Influence of biological, nutritional, and lifestyle factors

Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are strategical elements playing a crucial role in the industry, especially in producing high-tech materials. Therefore, REEs are new contaminants of emerging concerns. However, due to the lack of exposure data on REE occurrence in environmental matrices, especially in European countries, it is still tricky to establish environmental background levels to assess the ecotoxicological risk related to REEs exposure. The present study aimed to evaluate the liver concentrations of REEs in domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) and Apennine wolves (Canis lupus italicus) living in the Abruzzo region, Italy. Moreover, for the scope of the present study, the dog's group was divided according to their sex, age, lifestyle, and diet. Wolves were categorized concerning their sex and genetic characteristics. Liver samples from dogs and wolves were collected during diagnostic necropsies from carcasses, sample mineralization was performed by a microwave digestion system with a single reaction chamber, and simultaneous determination of the presence of REEs was performed by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer (Q-ICP-MS) using standard mode for all rare earth elements except scandium (Sc) which was acquired in kinetic energy discrimination (KED) mode. Hepatic concentrations of REEs were statistically significantly higher in wolves compared to dogs. Moreover, significant differences in REEs concentrations arose also from the genetic type of wolf, since "pure wolves" had higher liver concentrations of REEs compared to wolf-dog hybrids. Female and adult dogs also showed elevated REEs compared to male and juvenile dogs, while no significant differences were demonstrated for dogs' diet and lifestyle. The results of the present study confirm the exposure of domestic and wild carnivores to REEs, showing also the ability of REEs to accumulate in carnivore livers, suggesting the potential role of this species as an alternative bioindicator.

Embryonic and larval exposure to propylparaben induces developmental and long-term neurotoxicity in zebrafish model

Parabens are preservatives found in cosmetics, processed foods, and medications. The harmful repercussions on the central nervous system by one of the most common parabens, propylparaben (PrP), are yet unknown, especially during development. In this study, the neurodevelopmental effects of PrP and long-term neurotoxicity were investigated in the zebrafish model, using an integrated approach. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to two different concentrations of PrP (10 and 1000 μg/L), then larvae were examined for their behavioral phenotypes (open-field behavior, startle response, and circadian rhythmicity) and relevant brain markers (cyp19a1b, pax6a, shank3a, and gad1b). Long-term behavioral and cognitive impacts on sociability, cerebral functional asymmetry and thigmotaxis were also examined on juveniles at 30 dpf and 60 dpf. Moreover, proteomics and gene expression analysis were assessed in brains of 60 dpf zebrafish. Interestingly, thigmotaxis was decreased by the high dose in larvae and increased by the low dose in juveniles. The expression of shank3a and gad1b genes was repressed by both PrP concentrations pointing to possible effects of PrP on neurodevelopment and synaptogenesis. Proteomics analysis evidenced alterations related to brain development and lipid metabolism. Overall, the results demonstrated that early-life exposure to PrP promotes developmental and persistent neurobehavioral alterations in the zebrafish model, affecting genes and protein levels possibly associated with brain diseases.

Environmentally relevant concentrations of triclocarban affect behaviour, learning, and brain gene expression in fish

Many chemicals spilled in aquatic ecosystems can interfere with cognitive abilities and brain functions that control fitness-related behaviour. Hence, their harmful potential may be substantially underestimated. Triclocarban (TCC), one of the most common aquatic contaminants, is known to disrupt hormonal activity, but the consequences of this action on behaviour and its underlying cognitive mechanisms are unclear. We tried to fill this knowledge gap by analysing behaviour, cognitive abilities, and brain gene expression in zebrafish larvae exposed to TCC sublethal concentrations. TCC exposure substantially decreased exploratory behaviour and response to stimulation, while it increased sociability. Additionally, TCC reduced the cognitive performance of zebrafish in a habituation learning task. In the brain of TCC-exposed zebrafish, we found upregulation of c-fos, a gene involved in neural activity, and downregulation of bdnf, a gene that influences behavioural and cognitive traits such as activity, learning, and memory. Overall, our experiments highlight consistent effects of non-lethal TCC concentrations on behaviour, cognitive abilities, and brain functioning in a teleost fish, suggesting critical fitness consequences of these compounds in aquatic ecosystems as well as the potential to affect human health.

Ecotoxicological assessment of water phase exfoliated two-dimensional Group-VI transition metal dichalcogenides using zebrafish embryo model

Among emerging layered materials, 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) nanosheets (n-sheets) have received increasing attention for optoelectronics, energy storage, and, recently, for bioremediation and advanced biomedical applications; however, a lack of ecotoxicological in vivo studies is evident. Herein, for the first time, the potential nanotoxicity of liquid phase exfoliated Group VI TMDs n-sheets (MoS2, WS2, WSe2, and MoSe2) was comparatively investigated using zebrafish embryos (Z-EBs) as an in-vivo model. The 2D n-sheets were produced directly in aqueous-medium, the obtained n-sheets were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman and visible spectroscopy, and their potential nanotoxicity was investigated by fish embryo test OECD TG 236. Chorionated and dechorionated embryos were used to assess the severity of TMD exposure. The survival rate, sublethal alteration during embryogenesis, hatching rate, and mortality were evaluated. TMDs n-sheets tend to adhere to the Z-EBs surface depending on their chemistry. Despite this, TMDs did not show lethal effects; weak sublethal effects were found for MoS2 and WSe2, while slight hatching delays were registered for MoSe2 and WSe2. The observed effects are attributable to the TMDs' tendency to interact with Z-EBs, because of the different chemistry. This work demonstrates how water-dispersed TMDs are potential eco/biocompatible materials.

Mediterranean Plants with Antimicrobial Activity against Staphylococcus aureus, a Meta-Analysis for Green Veterinary Pharmacology Applications

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has emerged as a global health crisis, necessitating the search for innovative strategies to combat infectious diseases. The unique biodiversity of Italian flora offers a treasure trove of plant species and their associated phytochemicals, which hold immense potential as a solution to address AMR. By investigating the antimicrobial properties of Italian flora and their phytochemical constituents, this study aims to shed light on the potential of phyto-complexes as a valuable resource for developing novel or supportive antimicrobial agents useful for animal production.

Identification of the Novel Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus Sequence Type 525 in Donkeys of Abruzzo Region, Italy

Streptococcus equi sub. zooepidemicus (SEZ) is described as a commensal bacterium of several animal species, including humans. Growing evidence supports the potential role of SEZ in the onset and progression of severe clinical manifestations of diseases in horses and other animals. In the present communication, we describe the diagnostic procedure applied to characterize the streptococcal infections caused by a novel SEZ sequence type (ST525) in donkeys raised on a farm in Abruzzo, Italy. The diagnostic process began with anamnesis and anatomopathological analysis, which revealed a severe bacterial suppurative bronchopneumonia associated with systemic vascular damage and haemorrhages. Then, SEZ infection was confirmed by applying an integrative diagnostic strategy that included standard bacterial isolation techniques, analytical tools for bacteria identification (MALDI-TOF MS), and molecular analysis (qPCR). Furthermore, the application of the whole-genome sequencing approach helped us to identify the bacterial strains and the virulence factors involved in animal diseases. The novel SEZ-ST525 was identified in two cases of the disease. This new sequence type was isolated from the lung, liver, and spleen in Case 1, and from retropharyngeal lymph nodes in Case 2. Moreover, the presence of the virulence gene mf2, a virulence factor carried by prophages in Streptococcus pyogenes, was also found for the first time in an SEZ strain. The results of the present study highlight the need to apply an integrated diagnostic approach for the identification and tracking of pathogenic strains of SEZ, shedding new light on the re-evaluation of these bacteria as a causative agent of disease in animals and humans.

Early-life exposure to environmentally relevant concentrations of triclocarban impairs ocular development in zebrafish larvae

Triclocarban (TCC), is an antimicrobial component in personal care products and it is one of the emerging contaminants since it has been detected in various environmental matrices. Its presence in human cord blood, breast milk, and maternal urine raised issues about its possible impact on development and increased concerns about the safety of daily exposure. This study aims to provide additional information about the effects of zebrafish early-life exposure to TCC on eye development and visual function. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to two concentrations of TCC (5 and 50 μg/L) for 4 days. TCC-mediated toxicity was assessed in larvae at the end of exposure and in the long term (20 days post fertilization; dpf), through different biological end-points. The experiments showed that TCC exposure influences the retinal architecture. In 4 dpf treated larvae, we found a less organized ciliary marginal zone, a decrease in the inner nuclear and inner plexiform layers, and a decrease in the retinal ganglion cell layer. Photoreceptor and inner plexiform layers showed an increase in 20 dpf larvae at lower and both concentrations, respectively. The expression levels of two genes involved in eye development (mitfb and pax6a) were both decreased at the concentration of 5 μg/L in 4 dpf larvae, and an increase in mitfb was observed in 5 μg/L-exposed 20 dpf larvae. Interestingly, 20 dpf larvae failed to discriminate between visual stimuli, demonstrating notable visual perception impairments due to compound. The results prompt us to hypothesize that early-life exposure to TCC may have severe and potentially long-term effect on zebrafish visual function.

Personal Care Products as a Contributing Factor to Antimicrobial Resistance: Current State and Novel Approach to Investigation

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the world's industrialized nations' biggest issues. It has a significant influence on the ecosystem and negatively affects human health. The overuse of antibiotics in the healthcare and agri-food industries has historically been defined as a leading factor, although the use of antimicrobial-containing personal care products plays a significant role in the spread of AMR. Lotions, creams, shampoos, soaps, shower gels, toothpaste, fragrances, and other items are used for everyday grooming and hygiene. However, in addition to the primary ingredients, additives are included to help preserve the product by lowering its microbial load and provide disinfection properties. These same substances are released into the environment, escaping traditional wastewater treatment methods and remaining in ecosystems where they contact microbial communities and promote the spread of resistance. The study of antimicrobial compounds, which are often solely researched from a toxicological point of view, must be resumed considering the recent discoveries, to highlight their contribution to AMR. Parabens, triclocarban, and triclosan are among the most worrying chemicals. To investigate this issue, more effective models must be chosen. Among them, zebrafish is a crucial study system because it allows for the assessment of both the risks associated with exposure to these substances as well as environmental monitoring. Furthermore, artificial intelligence-based computer systems are useful in simplifying the handling of antibiotic resistance data and speeding up drug discovery processes.

Sodium valproate exposure influences the expression of pparg in the zebrafish model

Valproic acid (VPA) is an anti-epileptic drug used alone or in combination with other medications to treat seizures, mania, and bipolar disorder. VPA recognized as a teratogenic chemical can cause severe birth defects mainly affecting the brain and spinal cord when administered during pregnancy. However, the potential mechanisms of developmental toxicity are still less studied, and in the present study, the influence of VPA exposure was evaluated on zebrafish early-life stages. Zebrafish were exposed to two sublethal concentrations of sodium valproate (SV) (0.06 mM and 0.15 mM) from 24 hours post-fertilization (hpf) to 96 hpf and the SV teratogenic potential was investigated through morphometric analysis of zebrafish larvae combined with the evaluation of cartilage profile. Moreover, the effect of SV on the transcription level of pparg was also performed. The results of the study showed the teratogenic potential of SV, which disrupts the morphometric signature of the head and body. The marked distortion of cartilage structures was paralleled to a malformation of telencephalon and optic tectum in both concentrations suggesting a high teratogen effect of SV on the brain. These data were further confirmed by the increased expression of pparg in the zebrafish head. Overall, the present study confirms the teratogenic activity of SV in the zebrafish model and, for the first time, points out the potential protective role of pparg in the SV dose-dependent toxicity.

Modification of the drug resistance of emerging milk-borne pathogens through sodium alginate-based antibiotics and nanoparticles

Streptococcus agalactiae and Klebsiella pneumoniae are emerging as major milk-borne pathogens. Additionally, resistance to antibiotics of pathogens is of concern. Therefore, this study investigated the prevalence and drug resistance of S. agalactiae and K. pneumoniae in mastitis milk samples and assessed the antimicrobial potential of sodium alginate (G)-stabilized MgO nanoparticles (M) and antibiotics (tylosin [T] and ampicillin [A]) against both of these pathogens. A total of n = 200 milk samples from cattle were collected using purposive sampling, and standard microbiological approaches were adopted to isolate target bacteria. Parametric and non-parametric statistical tests were used to analyze the obtained data. Four preparations, GT (gel-stabilized tylosin), GA (gel-stabilized ampicillin), GTM (tylosin and MgO nanoparticles stabilized in gel), and GAM (ampicillin and MgO nanoparticles stabilized in gel), were evaluated against both bacteria through well diffusion and broth microdilution method. The analysis revealed that 45.24% (95/210) of the milk samples were positive for mastitis, of which 11.58% (11/95) were positive for S. agalactiae and 9.47% (9/95) were positive for K. pneumoniae. S. agalactiae had a significantly higher zone of inhibition (ZOI) than K. pneumoniae against penicillin, tetracycline, and amoxicillin, whereas the opposite was observed against imipenem and erythromycin. All gel (G)-based preparations showed an increase in the percentage of ZOI compared with antibiotics alone, with GTM presenting the highest of all, i.e., 59.09 and 56.25% ZOI compared with tylosin alone against S. agalactiae and K. pneumoniae, respectively. Similarly, in a broth microdilution assay, the lowest MIC was found for K. pneumoniae (9.766 ± 0.0 μg/mL) against GTM, followed by GT, GAM, and GA after incubation for 24 h. A similar response was noted for preparations against S. agalactiae but with a comparatively higher MIC. A significant reduction in MIC with respect to incubation time was found at 8 h and remained until at 20 h against both pathogens. The cytotoxicity of the MgO nanoparticles used in this study was significantly lower than that of the positive control. Overall, this study found that K. pneumoniae and S. agalactiae appeared higher in prevalence and antimicrobial resistance, and sodium alginate-based antibiotics and MgO nanoparticles were effective alternative approaches for tackling antimicrobial resistance.

Dinitroaniline herbicide pendimethalin affects development and induces biochemical and histological alterations in zebrafish early-life stages

Pendimethalin (PND) is a dinitroaniline preemergent herbicide widely used to control grasses and weeds. The present study aimed to evaluate the PND potential effects on the development of zebrafish early-life stages. The research focuses first on acute toxicity, followed by the integration of toxicity results through histopathology, oxidative status, and neurotoxicity evaluation of sublethal and environmentally relevant concentrations. Zebrafish larvae exposed to PND showed mortality and developed sublethal alterations including impaired fin development, lordosis, scoliosis, blood congestion, impaired blood flow, and reduced heartbeat. PND exposure (0.5 mg/L) affects musculoskeletal development leading to delayed and reduced ossification of the vertebral centra in the developing vertebral column and disruption of muscle morphology. Herbicide exposure (0.5 mg/L and 0.05 mg/L) led also to biochemical changes of antioxidant enzymes, increasing the activity of CAT, GR, and GPx, while no effects were observed on the activity of SOD and GST in zebrafish larvae. Lastly, AChE activity, a biochemical marker of neurotoxicity, was also increased in zebrafish larvae exposed to 0.5 mg/L of PND. These results confirm the developmental toxicity of PND in zebrafish early-life stages, pointing out the potential role of oxidative stress in the onset of sublethal alterations.

Oxysterols profiles in zebrafish (Danio rerio) embryos exposed to bisphenol A

INTRODUCTION

Oxysterols are cholesterol oxidation products and bioactive lipids involved in developmental signaling pathways, embryonic and postembryonic tissue patterning and homeostasis. The embryonic period is a very sensitive window of exposure to bisphenol A (BPA), hence the role of BPA on the levels of oxysterols in the very early stages of zebrafish embryogenesis is a relevant novel field of investigation.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the role of BPA on oxysterols levels in zebrafish embryos at 8 and 24 hours post fertilization (hpf) with cytochromes P450 (CYPs)-modulating chemicals (carbamazepine, ketoconazole, and hydrogen peroxide).

METHODS

Upon a dose range finding, zebrafish embryos were exposed to environmentally relevant (0.04μM) and toxicological (17.5 μM) BPA concentrations. Seven oxysterols were profiled by high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS).

RESULTS

Similarly to the CYPs-modulating chemicals, BPA caused: i) no significant changes at 8 hpf and ii) a dose-dependent increase of total oxysterols at 24 hpf, with 27-hydroxycholesterol as the most regulated oxysterol.

DISCUSSION

In the first day post-fertilization of the zebrafish embryos, the role of BPA alike a CYPs-modulating chemical was confirmed by the similar oxysterol changes observed with the already known CYPs-modulating chemicals.

Oxysterols Profile in Zebrafish Embryos Exposed to Triclocarban and Propylparaben-A Preliminary Study

Oxysterols have long been considered as simple by-products of cholesterol metabolism, but they are now fully designed as bioactive lipids that exert their multiple effects through their binding to several receptors, representing endogenous mediators potentially involved in several metabolic diseases. There is also a growing concern that metabolic disorders may be linked with exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs). To date, there are no studies aimed to link EDCs exposure to oxysterols perturbation-neither in vivo nor in vitro studies. The present research aimed to evaluate the differences in oxysterols levels following exposure to two metabolism disrupting chemicals (propylparaben (PP) and triclocarban (TCC)) in the zebrafish model using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Following exposure to PP and TCC, there were no significant changes in total and individual oxysterols compared with the control group; however, some interesting differences were noticed: 24-OH was detected only in treated zebrafish embryos, as well as the concentrations of 27-OH, which followed a different distribution, with an increase in TCC treated embryos and a reduction in zebrafish embryos exposed to PP at 24 h post-fertilization (hpf). The results of the present study prompt the hypothesis that EDCs can modulate the oxysterol profile in the zebrafish model and that these variations could be potentially involved in the toxicity mechanism of these emerging contaminants.

Environmentally relevant concentrations of triclocarban affect morphological traits and melanogenesis in zebrafish larvae

Human activity is responsible for producing several chemical compounds, which contaminate the aquatic environment and adversely influence the survival of aquatic species and indirectly human health. Triclocarban (TCC) belongs to the category of emerging pollutants and its presence in aquatic environment is justified by its wide use as antimicrobial agent in personal care products. The concern about this chemical is due to the risk of persistence in water and soils and bioaccumulation, which contributes to human exposition through the contaminated food consumption. The present study evaluated the developmental toxicity of TCC in zebrafish early-life stages starting with the assessment of acute toxicity and then focusing on the integrative analyses of the observed phenotype on zebrafish development. For this purpose, lethal and sublethal alterations of zebrafish embryos were investigated by the Fish Embryo Acute Toxicity Tests (FET tests). Subsequently, two concentrations of TCC were used to investigate the morphometric features and defects in larvae developmental pigmentation: an environmentally relevant (5μg/L) and toxicological (50μg/L), derived from the No Observed Effect Concentration (NOEC) value concentration. Furthermore, the expression levels of a key transcription factor for melanocyte differentiation and melanin syntheses, such as mitfa (microphthalmia-associated transcription factor) and tyr (tyrosinase) and its activity, were evaluated.

An Experimental Approach to Study the Effects of Realistic Environmental Mixture of Linuron and Propamocarb on Zebrafish Synaptogenesis

The reasons behind the extensive use of pesticides include the need to destroy vector organisms and promote agricultural production in order to sustain population growth. Exposure to pesticides is principally occupational, even if their persistence in soil, surface water and food brings the risk closer to the general population, hence the demand for risk assessment, since these compounds exist not only as individual chemicals but also in form of mixtures. In light of this, zebrafish represents a suitable model for the evaluation of toxicological effects. Here, zebrafish embryos were exposed for 96 h post fertilization (hpf) to sublethal concentrations (350 µg/L) of linuron and propamocarb, used separately and then combined in a single solution. We investigated the effects on morphological traits and the expression of genes known to be implicated in synaptogenesis (neurexin1a and neuroligin3b). We observed alterations in some phenotypic parameters, such as head width and interocular distance, that showed a significant reduction (p < 0.05) for the mixture treatment. After individual exposure, the analysis of gene expression showed an imbalance at the synaptic level, which was partially recovered by the simultaneous administration of linuron and propamocarb. This preliminary study demonstrates that the combined substances were responsible for some unpredictable effects, diverging from the effect observed after single exposure. Thus, it is clear that risk assessment should be performed not only on single pesticides but also on their mixtures, the toxicological dynamics of which can be totally unpredictable.

Behavioural effects of early-life exposure to parabens in zebrafish larvae

Parabens are classified as endocrine disrupting chemicals due to their ability to activate several nuclear receptors causing changes in hormones-dependent signalling pathways. Central nervous system of developing organisms is particularly vulnerable to changes in hormonal pathways, which could lead to altered brain function, abnormal behaviour and even diseases later in life. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of exposure to butylparaben (BuP), ethylparaben (EtP) and methylparaben (MeP) during early development on nervous system using zebrafish larvae's behavioural models. Zebrafish were exposed until 4 days post fertilization (dpf) to three concentrations of each paraben chosen considering the environmentally realistic concentrations of human exposure and the benchmark-dose lower bound calculated for zebrafish larvae (BuP: 5, 50 and 500 μg/L; EtP: 50, 500 and 5000 μg/L; MeP: 100, 1000 and 10,000 μg/L). Activity in novel and in familiar environment, thigmotaxis, visual startle response and photic synchronization of the behavioural circadian rhythms were analysed at 4, 5 and 6 dpf. Zebrafish larvae exposed to BuP 500 μg/L and EtP 5000 μg/L revealed increased anxiety-like behaviour in novel environment. Larvae treated with 500 μg/L of BuP showed reduced activity in familiar and marginally in unfamiliar environment, and larvae exposed to 5000 μg/L of EtP exhibited hyperactivity in familiar environment. Parabens exposure did not influence the visual startle response and the photic synchronization of circadian rhythms in zebrafish larvae. This research highlighted as the exposure to parabens has the potential to interfere with behavioural development of zebrafish.

Probiotic antigenotoxic activity as a DNA bioprotective tool: a minireview with focus on endocrine disruptors

Nowadays, the interest in the role of dietary components able to influence the composition and the activity of the intestinal microbiota and, consequently, to modulate the risk of genotoxicity and colon cancer is increasing in the scientific community. Within this topic, the microbial ability to have a protective role at gastrointestinal level by counteracting the biological activity of genotoxic compounds, and thus preventing the DNA damage, is deemed important in reducing gut pathologies and is considered a new tool for probiotics and functional foods. A variety of genotoxic compounds can be found in the gut and, besides food-related mutagens and other DNA-reacting compounds, there is a group of pollutants commonly used in food packaging and/or in thousands of everyday products called endocrine disruptors (EDs). EDs are exogenous substances that alter the functions of the endocrine system through estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activity, which interfere with normal hormonal function in human and wildlife. Thus, this paper summarizes the main applications of probiotics, mainly lactobacilli, as a bio-protective tool to counteract genotoxic and mutagenic agents, by biologically inhibiting the related DNA damage in the gut and highlights the emerging perspectives to enlarge and further investigate the microbial bio-protective role at intestinal level.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease: New Insights into the Interplay between Environmental Factors and PPARγ

The pathophysiological processes of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), i.e., Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), are still not completely understood. The exact etiology remains unknown, but it is well established that the pathogenesis of the inflammatory lesions is due to a dysregulation of the gut immune system resulting in over-production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Increasing evidence underlines the involvement of both environmental and genetic factors. Regarding the environment, the microbiota seems to play a crucial role. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptors that exert pleiotropic effects on glucose homeostasis, lipid metabolism, inflammatory/immune processes, cell proliferation, and fibrosis. Furthermore, PPARs modulate interactions with several environmental factors, including microbiota. A significantly impaired PPARγ expression was observed in UC patients' colonic epithelial cells, suggesting that the disruption of PPARγ signaling may represent a critical step of the IBD pathogenesis. This paper will focus on the role of PPARγ in the interaction between environmental factors and IBD, and it will analyze the most suitable in vitro and in vivo models available to better study these relationships.

Toxicological assessment and developmental abnormalities induced by butylparaben and ethylparaben exposure in zebrafish early-life stages

Toxicological effects of butylparaben (BuP) and ethylparaben (EtP) on zebrafish (Danio rerio) early-life stages are not well established. The present study evaluated, using zebrafish embryos and larvae, the toxicity of BuP and EtP through benchmark dose (BMD) approach. BuP was more toxic than EtP to zebrafish larvae. In fact, Lethal Concentration 50 (LC50) values at 96 h post-fertilization (hpf) for BuP and EtP were 2.34 mg/L and 20.86 mg/L, respectively. Indeed, BMD confidence interval (lower bound (BMDL) - upper bound (BMDU) was 0.91-1.92 mg/L for BuP and 10.8-17.4 mg/L for EtP. Zebrafish embryos exposed to 1 mg/L, 2.5 mg/L of BuP and 5 mg/L, 10 mg/L, 20 mg/L, 30 mg/L of EtP showed several developmental abnormalities and teratological effects compared to negative control. Exposed zebrafish developed reduced heartbeat, reduction in blood circulation, blood stasis, pericardial edema, deformed notochord and misshaped yolk sac. Embryos exposed to the highest concentrations of the chemicals (2.5 mg/L of BuP, 10 mg/L, 20 mg/L and 30 mg/L of EtP) showed the developmental abnormalities at 48 hpf while those treated with 1 mg/L of BuP and 10 mg/L of EtP reported behavioral changes at 72 hpf, including trembling of head, pectoral fins and spinal cord. This research identified the lethal and sublethal effects of BuP and EtP in zebrafish early-life stages and could be helpful to elucidate the developmental pathways of toxicity of parabens.

Embryotoxicity of methylparaben to zebrafish (Danio rerio) early-life stages

Methylparaben (MeP) is widely used as preservative in personal care products, food commodities and pharmaceuticals due to its antimicrobial properties. Its widespread use resulted in the contamination of aquatic environment and raised concerns about the potential adverse effects on human health, especially in the developing organisms. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the embryotoxicity of MeP in zebrafish early-life stages applying the benchmark-dose (BMD) methodology to Fish embryo acute toxicity (FET) tests-OECD guideline 236. Toxic effects were studied by daily evaluation of lethal endpoints, hatching rate and sublethal alterations. Zebrafish fertilized eggs were exposed until 96 h post fertilization (hpf) to five concentrations of MeP: 1 mg/L, 10 mg/L, 30 mg/L, 60 mg/L and 80 mg/L. The lethal concentration 50 (LC 50) was 72.67 mg/L. Indeed, BMD confidence interval (lower bound, BMDL-upper bound, BMDU) was 40.8-57.4 mg/L for lethal endpoints and 16-26.5 mg/L for toxicity index, that includes both lethal and sublethal alterations. Zebrafish embryos exposed to MeP developed sublethal alterations including pericardial edema, yolk edema, blood stasis, reduction in blood circulation, reduced heartbeat and notochord curvature. The number of embryos exposed to the highest concentrations of MeP that reported sublethal alterations increased between 24hpf and 48 hpf-72 hpf-96 hpf. Only zebrafish larvae treated with 30 mg/L of MeP showed behavioural changes. This study highlighted the detrimental effects of MeP on zebrafish early-life stages with attention to its developmental toxicity.

Impact of Endocrine Disruptors on Vitellogenin Concentrations in Wild Brown Trout (Salmo trutta trutta)

The adverse effects of endocrine disruptors (EDs) on aquatic wildlife and human health represent a current issue of high public concern. Substantial knowledge of the level of estrogenic EDs in fish has accumulated from field surveys. For this purpose, a survey of wild brown trout (Salmo trutta trutta) was carried out to assess the incidence of EDs in the feral fish population living in the Liri river (Abruzzi, Italy). The results of this study show that this aquatic environment possesses an estrogenic potency that triggered the increase of vitellogenin levels in both female and male trouts. Fish exposed to different pesticides and urban waste in downstream river showed higher vitellogenin levels in comparison to the headwater site. Furthermore, some trouts coming from the downstream reported the presence of several pesticides and fungicides, some of these banned several years ago.

Integrated Approach to Evaluate the Association between Exposure to Pesticides and Idiopathic Premature Thelarche in Girls: The PEACH Project

Several pesticides are recognized as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) since they can interfere with the dysregulation of sexual, thyroid and neuro-endocrine hormones. Children are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of EDCs due to their developmental stage, peculiar lifestyle and dietary habits. In this context, the exposure to pesticides represents an important risk factor associated with early development. This study deals with the possible association between exposure to pesticides and idiopathic premature thelarche in girls from areas of intensive agriculture practice in the Centre of Italy. An integrated approach was set up, including: (i) a case-control study on girls with idiopathic premature thelarche; (ii) the evaluation of multiple pesticides exposure in girls; (iii) the evaluation of multiple pesticides in food; (iv) the dietary intake of pesticide residues; (v) the assessment of toxicological effects of widely used pesticides by in vitro model. Data integration will provide an estimate of the predictive risk of potential effects on girls' health, linked to dietary intake.

Sublethal exposure to propylparaben leads to lipid metabolism impairment in zebrafish early-life stages

Parabens are widely used in cosmetics, toiletries, food and pharmaceuticals. Toxicological effects of parabens on human lipid metabolism are not well established. The present study used the early-life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to determine the toxicity of propylparaben (PP). The embryos were exposed for 96 hours postfertilization (hpf) at five different concentrations of PP, and lethal and sublethal alterations were recorded daily. The lethal concentration 50 (LC₅₀ ) value was 3.98 mg/L. The most common sublethal alterations recorded at 1 and 2 mg/L were an enlarged and misshaped yolk sac, hyperexcitability, and reduction in head size and swim bladder. At sublethal concentrations of 1 and 2 mg/L, we observed an altered lipid metabolism, in terms of decrease in neutral lipid mobilization from yolk and alteration of phospholipid metabolism, both in the body and in the yolk sac. These observations were combined with strong head cartilage defects, indicating a strong effect of PP on head development. This research demonstrates that PP interferes with lipid utilization in zebrafish during early-life stages that might be involved in neurological and skeletal abnormalities.

Toxicological, gene expression and histopathological evaluations of environmentally realistic concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers PBDE- 47, PBDE-99 and PBDE-209 on zebrafish embryos

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are brominated flame retardants. Biomonitoring studies have shown widespread presence of PBDEs in humans and their accumulation in food chain cause concern to human health, especially for foetus and infant development. The early-life stages are generally considered more sensitive to exposure to toxic compounds than juvenile or adults. For this reason the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of the three most environmentally relevant BDE (BDE- 47, 99 and 209) on zebrafish embryos. The fish embryo toxicity (FET) OECD tests on zebrafish were performed followed by histopathogical examination to assess morphological changes. The gene expression of the thyroid stimulating hormone β (Tshβ), the transport proteins transthyretin (Ttr) and thyroxine-binding globulin (Tbg) as well as the enzyme iodothyronine deiodinase 1 (Dio1) was also assessed by Real-time PCR. BDE-47 and BDE-99 showed an increase of the severity of the effects at the lower concentrations while for the BDE-209 the effects were higher to the high concentrations. Although all compounds did not show any acute toxicity for none of the concentrations tested, they reported interesting sub-acute lesions, including yolk and pericardial edema, tail and head malformation, reduced and extremely reduced heart beat rate, blood stasis and spinal curvature, with the highest percentage recorded for BDE-209. Cardiac edema, damage of eye structure and hydrocephaly were confirmed also by histophatological examination. Furthermore, a toxic and dose-dependent liver vacuolization in BDE-209 was observed in all experimental groups. Although no statistically significant difference in gene expression was observed, BDE-209 up-regulated only Dio1 while the other congeners induced Tshβ, Ttr, Tbg and Dio1. Overall, this research highlighted that exposure to BDE-47, BDE-99 and BDE-209 at realistic concentrations caused lethal and sub-lethal alterations and impaired genes involved in thyroid hormones homeostasis leading to abnormal development of zebrafish embryos.

Preliminary results of phase II study of capecitabine and gemcitabine (CAP-GEM) in patients with metastatic pretreated thymic epithelial tumors (TETs)

BACKGROUND

No previous prospective trials have been reported with capecitabine and gemcitabine (CAP-GEM) in patients with metastatic thymic epithelial tumors (TETs). We conducted a multicenter study to determine the activity and tolerability of this regimen in pretreated TETs.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 15 patients were enrolled in the first stage of phase II study. All patients received CAP-GEM every 3 weeks. The primary end point was objective response rate (RR); secondary end points were toxicity, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival.

RESULTS

Complete responses (CR) and partial responses were observed in three (20%) and three (20%) patients for a 40% RR, respectively. Grade 1-2 neutropenia, anemia and thrombocytopenia were the most common side-effects, noted in seven (46.7%), five (33.3%) and five (33.3%) patients, respectively. The most common grade 3 toxicity was neutropenia in three patients (20%). Median PFS was 11 months (95% confidence interval 4-17). The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 80% and 67%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We have decided to publish the preliminary results because this regimen was more active than that expected. Although our results are preliminary, CAP-GEM shows activity and safety in pretreated TETs. Furthermore, multicenter trials, also in first-line setting, are necessary to confirm our results.

Gemcitabine-capecitabine in platinum-refractory patients with thymic epithelial tumors

7590

Background: Platinum based combination chemotherapy is the actual standard of care for advanced and recurrent Thymic epithelial tumours-TET (thymoma and thymic carcinoma). Additional agents are needed in this setting. We have designed a pilot study, phase II multicenter, to evaluate the efficacy and safety of no tested schedule gemcitabine-capecitabine in patients refractory to platinum based chemotherapy. Methods: Eligible patients had pathologically confirmed TET and were treated with at least 2 lines of chemotherapy, one of this being a platinum based schedule. From January 2007 to September 2008 twelve pts were enrolled. Treatment Schedule: Gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 by 30-minute infusion on days 1 and 8 every 3 weeks plus oral capecitabine 650 mg/m2 twice daily on days 1 to 14. Response was evaluated at 3 and 6 cycles. Results: Pts Characteristics: 12 pts (7 M-5F, Median Age 51,3 yrs,range 27–76). 7 pts had received Thymectomy and 4 of this had received also surgery for metastatic disease. 5 pts have received only thymic biopsy. Performance status sec. Karnofsky was 90% (range 80–100). Site of disease: liver, lung, bone, nodal, pleural and pericardium. All pts were staged IVB sec. Masaoka. Tumors were classified by WHO classification as follows: 4-B2, 8-B2/B3. All pts were evaluated as concerns performance status and all had Karnofcky 90% (range 80–100). Sites of metastatic disease were: liver,lung,bone,nodal, pleural and pericardium. Associated paraneoplastic syndromes were: myasthenia in 7 pts, B-lymphopenia 11 pts. The minimum number of cycles administered on study was 3 (range 3–8).Among the 12 enrolled pts there were 10 objective response: 2 CR, 8 PR. 2 pts had SD. Prolonged maintenance of absence of disease was obtained in the 2 pts reporting a CR (more than 6 months in 1 patient). Treatment was well tolerated, no grade 4 toxicities was registered. Conclusions: The combination schedule gemcitabine-capecitabine have an high activity in Thymic malignancies in pts heavily pretreated with advanced recurrent TET and appears to be a safe option in platinum-refractory TET pts. This schedule must be proposed to be used also in randomized clinical trial compared with platinum based treatment.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Clinical outcome of patients with thymic epithelial tumors

14148

Advanced chemorefractory thymic epithelial tumors still represent a challenge in clinical oncology. Neoplastic thymoma cells express EGFR. We evaluated the clinical activity of Cetuximab, a chimeric human-mouse monoclonal IgG1 antibody blocking ligand binding to EGFR, in five cases of advanced chemorefractory thymic epithelial tumor. Materials and Methods: Patient Characteristics and response evaluation. Patients’ characteristics and responses to treatment are represented in the table . The patients were assessed for EGFR expression in the primitive tumor, being considered this data as a basis for an anti EGFR treatment. Moreover they were evaluated as concerns clinical status and biochemistry and imaged by a combined PET-CT. Treatment schedule: The patients received intravenous cetuximab (C225, Erbitux, Merck KgaA, Darmstadt, Germany) over 1 hour at 400 mg/m2 loading dose followed by the weekly administration of 250 mg/m2. The first dose of 400 mg/m2 was given during the course of 2 hours. Subsequent weekly treatments were given at a dose of 250 mg/m2 during the course of 1 hour. This preliminary evaluation suggests for the first time that cetuximab may be a useful therapeutic choice in advanced pretreated thymic tumors. Despite the need for prolonged follow-up of the patients and further confirmatory studies, the EGF/EGFR pathway seems to play a pivotal role in thymic tumor. [Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Probing for nasolacrimal duct obstruction with intravenous propofol sedation

BACKGROUND

Nasolacrimal duct obstruction occurs in 5% to 6% of neonates. Many studies advocate the probing of nasolacrimal duct obstruction under general inhalational anesthesia in patients at a late age (12 to 13 months) because a high percentage will resolve spontaneously. Others support early surgical intervention in patients aged younger than 6 to 9 months without anesthesia. We present late nasolacrimal duct probing under intravenous propofol sedation as an alternative approach to the treatment of nasolacrimal duct obstruction with a decrease in cost and time compared with probing under general inhalational anesthesia.

METHODS

We made a retrospective review of patient charts of children who underwent nasolacrimal duct probing with intravenous propofol sedation from April 1996 to September 1997. Procedure time and cost of procedure were compared for patients who had probings under propofol sedation to patients who had probings under general anesthesia.

RESULTS

A total of 22 patients (31 eyes) underwent nasolacrimal duct probing with propofol sedation; the patients' ages ranged from 11.5 to 39 months (average age, 17.8 months). Twenty-six (84%) of 31 eyes had resolution of the symptoms. The average total time for procedure under propofol sedation was 10.5 minutes, compared with 43.6 minutes under general inhalational anesthesia. The average total recovery time under propofol sedation was 13.6 minutes, compared with 121.1 minutes with general inhalational anesthesia. The cost of probing under propofol sedation was one third less than the cost of probing under general inhalational anesthesia.

DISCUSSION

Late probing for nasolacrimal duct obstruction under intravenous propofol sedation is comparable in efficacy to late probing under general inhalational anesthesia with a shorter time for the procedure and decreased expense.

An audit of adverse events in children sedated with chloral hydrate or propofol during imaging studies

We examined records of sedations provided by the paediatric anaesthesiology staff for 455 children (ages 1 mo-17 yr) undergoing MRI or CT scans at our institution over a twelve-month period with regard to the monitoring of adverse events: excessive sedation, agitation, vomiting, hypoxaemia, and major airway compromise. One hundred-and-thirty-one patients (29%) received chloral hydrate; 324 patients (71%) received propofol. All patients were monitored with continuous noninvasive pulse oximetry and received supplemental oxygen via nasal cannulae. Of the patients who received chloral hydrate, 64 (49%) were over one year of age; of the patients who received propofol, 318 (98%) were one year of age or older. In the chloral hydrate group, 23 patients (19%) were deemed excessively sedated and four patients (3%) were agitated; no patients in the propofol group experienced any of the adverse outcomes reviewed. Furthermore, no patients in either group had significant airway compromise and none was admitted to the hospital as a result of the sedation.

Low-dose dopamine induces early recovery of recombinant interleukin-2--impaired renal function

Recombinant interleukin-2 (rIL-2) can produce impairment of renal function with hypotension, fluid retention, elevated blood urea nitrogen, oliguria and low fractional sodium excretion; these side-effects are a common cause of reduction or interruption of rIL-2 infusion. The aim of this study was to investigate the control and treatment of renal toxicity induced by rIL-2 therapy. Here we show that dopamine, at a low dose of 2 micrograms/kg/min, completely prevented renal toxicity induced by rIL-2. While continuing rIL-2 therapy, 24-h continuous infusion of low-dose dopamine produced a rapid normalisation of urine output and a significant decrease in serum creatinine levels and body weight (P < 0.01), with an early and complete recovery of the rIL-2--impaired renal function: mean recovery time of renal function in patients treated with dopamine was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than in nontreated patients (4.8 days vs. 10 days, respectively).